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Chen X, Li C, Wang Z, Zhou Y, Chu M. Computational screening of biomarkers and potential drugs for arthrofibrosis based on combination of sequencing and large nature language model. J Orthop Translat 2024; 44:102-113. [PMID: 38304615 PMCID: PMC10831815 DOI: 10.1016/j.jot.2023.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Arthrofibrosis (AF) is a fibrotic joint disease resulting from excessive collagen production and fibrous scar formation after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). This devastating complication may cause consistent pain and dramatically reduction of functionality. Unfortunately, the conservative treatments to prevent the AF in the early stage are largely unknown due to the lack of specific biomarkers and reliable therapeutic targets. Methods In this study, we extracted1782 fibrosis related genes (FRGs) from 373,461published literature based on the large natural language processing models (ChatGPT) and intersected with the 2750 differential expressed genes (DEGs) from mRNA microarray (GSE135854). A total of 311 potential AF biomarker genes (PABGs) were obtained and functional analysis were performed including gene ontology (GO) annotation and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses. Subsequently, we accomplished validation in AF animal models with immobilization of the unilateral knee joints of 16 rabbits for 1-week, 2-weeks, 3-weeks and 4-weeks. Finally, we tested the biomarkers in a retrospective cohort enrolled 35 AF patients and 35 control group patients. Results We identified G-protein-coupled receptor 17 (GPR17) as a reliable therapeutic biomarker for AF diagnosis with higher AUC (0.819) in the ROC curve. A total of 21 potential drugs targeted to GPR17 were screened. Among them, pranlukast and montelukast have achieved therapeutic effect in animal models. In addition, we established an online AF database for data integration (https://chenxi2023.shinyapps.io/afdbv1). Conclusions These results unveiling therapeutic biomarkers for AF diagnosis, and provide potential drugs for clinical treatment. The translational potential of this article Our study demonstrated that GPR17 holds significant promise as a potential biomarker and therapeutic target for arthrofibrosis. Moreover, pranlukast and montelukast targeted to GPR17 that could be instrumental in the treatment of AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Chen
- Department of Adult Joint Reconstructive Surgery, Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, 31 East Xinjiekou Street, Beijing, 100035, China
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Medical Immunology (Peking University), Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Cheng Li
- Department of Adult Joint Reconstructive Surgery, Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, 31 East Xinjiekou Street, Beijing, 100035, China
| | - Ziyuan Wang
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Medical Immunology (Peking University), Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Yixin Zhou
- Department of Adult Joint Reconstructive Surgery, Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, 31 East Xinjiekou Street, Beijing, 100035, China
| | - Ming Chu
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Medical Immunology (Peking University), Beijing, 100191, China
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Dong C, Yu Z, Du J, Zhang Y, Liu W, Huang Z, Xiong S, Wang T, Song Y, Ma X. Montelukast Attenuates Retraction of Expanded Flap by Inhibiting Capsule Formation around Silicone Expander through TGF-β1 Signaling. Plast Reconstr Surg 2023; 152:1044e-1052e. [PMID: 36988445 DOI: 10.1097/prs.0000000000010459] [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] [Indexed: 03/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tissue expansion has tremendous applications in plastic surgery, but flap retraction provides insufficient tissue for use. Inspired by the use of montelukast to suppress capsular contracture, the authors investigated the effects of montelukast on capsule formation around the expander and retraction of the expanded scalp of the rat. METHODS Thirty-six male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into control and montelukast groups. In each group, 12 expanded flaps with or without capsules were harvested for histologic and molecular analysis; the six remaining expanded flaps were transferred to repair defects. Myofibroblast and transforming growth factor-β1 expression in the capsule was determined using immunofluorescence. Capsule ultrastructure was observed using transmission electron microscopy. Related protein expression in the capsules was detected using Western blot analysis. RESULTS A comparison of control and montelukast groups revealed that areas of the harvested expanded flaps with capsules were greater (2.04 ± 0.11 cm 2 versus 2.42 ± 0.12 cm 2 , respectively; P = 0.04); the retraction rate decreased (41.3% ± 2.16% versus 28.13% ± 2.17%, respectively; P < 0.01). However, the increased areas and decreased retraction disappeared after capsule removal. The number of myofibroblasts declined. Thin, sparse collagen fibers were observed in the capsules. The expression of COL1, COL3, TGF-β1, EGR1, and phosphorylated ERK1/2 in the capsules decreased. Furthermore, the recipient area repaired by the transferred expanded flap was increased from 4.25 ± 0.39 cm 2 to 6.58 ± 0.31 cm 2 ( P < 0.01). CONCLUSION Montelukast attenuates retraction of the expanded flap by inhibiting capsule formation through suppressing transforming growth factor-β1 signaling. CLINICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT This study provides novel insights into a method for increasing the area of the expanded flap.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Dong
- From the Department of Plastic Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University
| | - Zhou Yu
- From the Department of Plastic Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University
| | - Jing Du
- From the Department of Plastic Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University
| | - Yu Zhang
- From the Department of Plastic Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University
| | - Wei Liu
- From the Department of Plastic Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University
| | - Zhaosong Huang
- From the Department of Plastic Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University
| | - Shaoheng Xiong
- From the Department of Plastic Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University
| | - Tong Wang
- From the Department of Plastic Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University
| | - Yajuan Song
- From the Department of Plastic Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University
| | - Xianjie Ma
- From the Department of Plastic Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University
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3
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Mottais A, Riberi L, Falco A, Soccal S, Gohy S, De Rose V. Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition Mechanisms in Chronic Airway Diseases: A Common Process to Target? Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12412. [PMID: 37569787 PMCID: PMC10418908 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241512412] [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: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 07/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a reversible process, in which epithelial cells lose their epithelial traits and acquire a mesenchymal phenotype. This transformation has been described in different lung diseases, such as lung cancer, interstitial lung diseases, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and other muco-obstructive lung diseases, such as cystic fibrosis and non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis. The exaggerated chronic inflammation typical of these pulmonary diseases can induce molecular reprogramming with subsequent self-sustaining aberrant and excessive profibrotic tissue repair. Over time this process leads to structural changes with progressive organ dysfunction and lung function impairment. Although having common signalling pathways, specific triggers and regulation mechanisms might be present in each disease. This review aims to describe the various mechanisms associated with fibrotic changes and airway remodelling involved in chronic airway diseases. Having better knowledge of the mechanisms underlying the EMT process may help us to identify specific targets and thus lead to the development of novel therapeutic strategies to prevent or limit the onset of irreversible structural changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angélique Mottais
- Pole of Pneumology, ENT, and Dermatology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Research, Université Catholique de Louvain, 1200 Brussels, Belgium; (A.M.); (S.G.)
| | - Luca Riberi
- Postgraduate School in Respiratory Medicine, University of Torino, 10124 Torino, Italy; (L.R.); (A.F.); (S.S.)
| | - Andrea Falco
- Postgraduate School in Respiratory Medicine, University of Torino, 10124 Torino, Italy; (L.R.); (A.F.); (S.S.)
| | - Simone Soccal
- Postgraduate School in Respiratory Medicine, University of Torino, 10124 Torino, Italy; (L.R.); (A.F.); (S.S.)
| | - Sophie Gohy
- Pole of Pneumology, ENT, and Dermatology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Research, Université Catholique de Louvain, 1200 Brussels, Belgium; (A.M.); (S.G.)
- Department of Pneumology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
- Cystic Fibrosis Reference Centre, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Virginia De Rose
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, 10126 Torino, Italy
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4
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Thatcher TH, Freeberg MAT, Myo YPA, Sime PJ. Is there a role for specialized pro-resolving mediators in pulmonary fibrosis? Pharmacol Ther 2023; 247:108460. [PMID: 37244406 PMCID: PMC10335230 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2023.108460] [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: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Pulmonary fibrotic diseases are characterized by proliferation of lung fibroblasts and myofibroblasts and excessive deposition of extracellular matrix proteins. Depending on the specific form of lung fibrosis, there can be progressive scarring of the lung, leading in some cases to respiratory failure and/or death. Recent and ongoing research has demonstrated that resolution of inflammation is an active process regulated by families of small bioactive lipid mediators termed "specialized pro-resolving mediators." While there are many reports of beneficial effects of SPMs in animal and cell culture models of acute and chronic inflammatory and immune diseases, there have been fewer reports investigating SPMs and fibrosis, especially pulmonary fibrosis. Here, we will review evidence that resolution pathways are impaired in interstitial lung disease, and that SPMs and other similar bioactive lipid mediators can inhibit fibroblast proliferation, myofibroblast differentiation, and accumulation of excess extracellular matrix in cell culture and animal models of pulmonary fibrosis, and we will consider future therapeutic implications of SPMs in fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas H Thatcher
- Division of Pulmonary Care and Critical Care Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Margaret A T Freeberg
- Division of Pulmonary Care and Critical Care Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Yu Par Aung Myo
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Patricia J Sime
- Division of Pulmonary Care and Critical Care Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA.
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Hsieh A, Assadinia N, Hackett TL. Airway remodeling heterogeneity in asthma and its relationship to disease outcomes. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1113100. [PMID: 36744026 PMCID: PMC9892557 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1113100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Asthma affects an estimated 262 million people worldwide and caused over 461,000 deaths in 2019. The disease is characterized by chronic airway inflammation, reversible bronchoconstriction, and airway remodeling. Longitudinal studies have shown that current treatments for asthma (inhaled bronchodilators and corticosteroids) can reduce the frequency of exacerbations, but do not modify disease outcomes over time. Further, longitudinal studies in children to adulthood have shown that these treatments do not improve asthma severity or fixed airflow obstruction over time. In asthma, fixed airflow obstruction is caused by remodeling of the airway wall, but such airway remodeling also significantly contributes to airway closure during bronchoconstriction in acute asthmatic episodes. The goal of the current review is to understand what is known about the heterogeneity of airway remodeling in asthma and how this contributes to the disease process. We provide an overview of the existing knowledge on airway remodeling features observed in asthma, including loss of epithelial integrity, mucous cell metaplasia, extracellular matrix remodeling in both the airways and vessels, angiogenesis, and increased smooth muscle mass. While such studies have provided extensive knowledge on different aspects of airway remodeling, they have relied on biopsy sampling or pathological assessment of lungs from fatal asthma patients, which have limitations for understanding airway heterogeneity and the entire asthma syndrome. To further understand the heterogeneity of airway remodeling in asthma, we highlight the potential of in vivo imaging tools such as computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. Such volumetric imaging tools provide the opportunity to assess the heterogeneity of airway remodeling within the whole lung and have led to the novel identification of heterogenous gas trapping and mucus plugging as important predictors of patient outcomes. Lastly, we summarize the current knowledge of modification of airway remodeling with available asthma therapeutics to highlight the need for future studies that use in vivo imaging tools to assess airway remodeling outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aileen Hsieh
- Centre for Heart Lung Innovation, St. Paul’s Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada,Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Najmeh Assadinia
- Centre for Heart Lung Innovation, St. Paul’s Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada,Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Tillie-Louise Hackett
- Centre for Heart Lung Innovation, St. Paul’s Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada,Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada,*Correspondence: Tillie-Louise Hackett,
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6
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Chen HC, Chiou HYC, Tsai ML, Chen SC, Lin MH, Chuang TC, Hung CH, Kuo CH. Effects of Montelukast on Arsenic-Induced Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition and the Role of Reactive Oxygen Species Production in Human Bronchial Epithelial Cells. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:877125. [PMID: 35517780 PMCID: PMC9063880 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.877125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of airway lung epithelial cells is considered a major driver of fibrosis and airway remodeling. Arsenic exposure is well known to cause the malignant transformation of cells, including those in the lung. Accumulating studies have shown that arsenic exposure is associated with chronic pulmonary diseases. However, clinical treatment for arsenic-induced pulmonary damage has not been well investigated. Materials and Methods: The therapeutic effects of montelukast and its combination with fluticasone on sodium arsenite-induced EMT changes in normal human bronchial cells were investigated. The cell migration ability was evaluated by Transwell and wound healing assays. EMT marker expression was determined by immunoblotting. Furthermore, the role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation in arsenic-induced EMT and the effect of montelukast on this process were determined by ROS inhibitor treatment and ROS measurement, respectively. Results: Montelukast was effective at reducing arsenic-induced cell migration and mesenchymal protein (fibronectin, MMP-2, N-cadherin, β-catenin, and SMAD2/3) expression. Arsenic-induced ROS production was attenuated by pretreatment with montelukast. Treatment with the ROS inhibitor N-acetyl cysteine reduced arsenic-induced NF-kB phosphorylation and the mesenchymal protein expression, indicating that ROS production is critical for arsenic-induced EMT. In addition, combined treatment with montelukast and fluticasone reversed the inhibitory effects of montelukast on cell migration. The expression of fibronectin, MMP-2 induced by arsenic was further enhanced by the combination treatment compared with montelukast treatment only. Conclusion: This study demonstrated that montelukast is effective at reducing arsenic-induced EMT in human bronchial epithelial cells. Through the inhibition of arsenic-induced ROS generation and NF-kB activation, which is critical for arsenic-induced EMT, montelukast inhibited arsenic-induced cell migration and the expression of extracellular matrix proteins and several EMT-regulating transcription factors. The combination of fluticasone with montelukast reversed the inhibitory effect of montelukast on arsenic-induced EMT. This study provides therapeutic strategies and mechanisms for arsenic-induced pulmonary epithelial damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huang-Chi Chen
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Municipal Siaogang Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Ying Clair Chiou
- Teaching and Research Center, Kaohsiung Municipal Siaogang Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Mei-Lan Tsai
- Graduate Institute of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Szu-Chia Chen
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Municipal Siaogang Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Faculty of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Hong Lin
- Graduate Institute of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Department of Medical Research, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,M.Sc. Program in Tropical Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Tzu-Chun Chuang
- Department of Respiratory Therapy, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Hsing Hung
- Graduate Institute of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Research Center for Environmental Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Department of Pediatrics, Kaohsiung Municipal Siaogang Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Chao-Hung Kuo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Municipal Siaogang Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Faculty of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
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7
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Extracellular Lipids in the Lung and Their Role in Pulmonary Fibrosis. Cells 2022; 11:cells11071209. [PMID: 35406772 PMCID: PMC8997955 DOI: 10.3390/cells11071209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Revised: 03/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Lipids are major actors and regulators of physiological processes within the lung. Initial research has described their critical role in tissue homeostasis and in orchestrating cellular communication to allow respiration. Over the past decades, a growing body of research has also emphasized how lipids and their metabolism may be altered, contributing to the development and progression of chronic lung diseases such as pulmonary fibrosis. In this review, we first describe the current working model of the mechanisms of lung fibrogenesis before introducing lipids and their cellular metabolism. We then summarize the evidence of altered lipid homeostasis during pulmonary fibrosis, focusing on their extracellular forms. Finally, we highlight how lipid targeting may open avenues to develop therapeutic options for patients with lung fibrosis.
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8
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Zhang S, Fan Y, Qin L, Fang X, Zhang C, Yue J, Bai W, Wang G, Chen Z, Renz H, Skevaki C, Liu X, Xie M. IL-1β augments TGF-β inducing epithelial-mesenchymal transition of epithelial cells and associates with poor pulmonary function improvement in neutrophilic asthmatics. Respir Res 2021; 22:216. [PMID: 34344357 PMCID: PMC8336269 DOI: 10.1186/s12931-021-01808-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Neutrophilic asthmatics (NA) have less response to inhaled corticosteroids. We aimed to find out the predictor of treatment response in NA. Methods Asthmatics (n = 115) and healthy controls (n = 28) underwent clinical assessment during 6-month follow-up with standardized therapy. Asthmatics were categorized by sputum differential cell count. The mRNA expressions were measured by RT-qPCR for sputum cytokines (IFN-γ, IL-1β, IL-27, FOXP3, IL-17A, and IL-5). The protein of IL-1β in sputum supernatant was detected by ELISA. Reticular basement membranes (RBM) were measured in the biopsy samples. The role and signaling pathways of IL-1β mediating the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process were explored through A549 cells. Results NA had increased baseline sputum cell IL-1β expression compared to eosinophilic asthmatics (EA). After follow-up, NA had less improvement in FEV1 compared to EA. For all asthmatics, sputum IL-1β mRNA was positively correlated with protein expression. Sputum IL-1β mRNA and protein levels were negatively correlated to FEV1 improvement. After subgrouping, the correlation between IL-1β mRNA and FEV1 improvement was significant in NA but not in EA. Thickness of RBM in asthmatics was greater than that of healthy controls and positively correlated with neutrophil percentage in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. In vitro experiments, the process of IL-1β augmenting TGF-β1-induced EMT cannot be abrogated by glucocorticoid or montelukast sodium, but can be reversed by MAPK inhibitors. Conclusions IL-1β level in baseline sputum predicts the poor lung function improvement in NA. The potential mechanism may be related to IL-1β augmenting TGF-β1-induced steroid-resistant EMT through MAPK signaling pathways. Trial registration: This study was approved by the Ethics Committee of Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology (IRB ID: 20150406). Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12931-021-01808-7.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengding Zhang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, National Ministry of Health of the People's Republic of China and National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Wuhan, China
| | - Yu Fan
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Qiandongnanzhou People's Hospital, Kaili, China
| | - Lu Qin
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, National Ministry of Health of the People's Republic of China and National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaoyu Fang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, National Ministry of Health of the People's Republic of China and National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Wuhan, China
| | - Cong Zhang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, National Ministry of Health of the People's Republic of China and National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Wuhan, China
| | - Junqing Yue
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, National Ministry of Health of the People's Republic of China and National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Wuhan, China
| | - Wenxue Bai
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, National Ministry of Health of the People's Republic of China and National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Wuhan, China
| | - Gang Wang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Zhihong Chen
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Harld Renz
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine, Philipps Universität Marburg, Marburg, Germany.,Universities of Giessen and Marburg Lung Center (UGMLC), and the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Marburg, Germany
| | - Chrysanthi Skevaki
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine, Philipps Universität Marburg, Marburg, Germany.,Universities of Giessen and Marburg Lung Center (UGMLC), and the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Marburg, Germany
| | - Xiansheng Liu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Tongji Shanxi Hospital, Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030032, China. .,Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China. .,Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, National Ministry of Health of the People's Republic of China and National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Wuhan, China.
| | - Min Xie
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Tongji Shanxi Hospital, Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030032, China. .,Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China. .,Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, National Ministry of Health of the People's Republic of China and National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Wuhan, China.
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9
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Singh A, Dhar R. A large-scale computational screen identifies strong potential inhibitors for disrupting SARS-CoV-2 S-protein and human ACE2 interaction. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2021; 40:9004-9017. [PMID: 33998954 PMCID: PMC8146306 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2021.1921034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 has infected millions of individuals across the globe and has killed over 2.7 million people. Even though vaccines against this virus have recently been introduced, the antibody generated in the process has been reported to decline quickly. This can reduce the efficacy of vaccines over time and can result in re-infections. Thus, drugs that are effective against COVID-19 can provide a second line of defence and can prevent occurrence of the severe form of the disease. The interaction between SARS-CoV2 S-protein and human ACE2 (hACE2) is essential for the infection of the virus. Thus, drugs that block this interaction could potentially inhibit SARS-CoV-2 infection into the host cells. To identify such drugs, we first analyzed the recently published crystal structure of S-protein-hACE2 complex and identified essential residues of both S-protein and hACE2 for this interaction. We used this knowledge to virtually dock a drug library containing 4115 drug molecules against S-protein for repurposing drugs that could inhibit binding of S-protein to hACE2. We identified several potential inhibitors based on their docking scores, pharmacological effects and ability to block residues of S protein required for interaction with hACE2. The top inhibitors included drugs used for the treatment of hepatitis C (velpatasvir, pibrentasvir) as well as several vitamin D derivatives. Several molecules obtained from our screen already have good experimental support in published literature. Thus, we believe that our results will facilitate the discovery of an effective drug against COVID-19. Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adarsh Singh
- Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur, West Bengal, India
| | - Riddhiman Dhar
- Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur, West Bengal, India
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10
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Hur J, Rhee CK, Lee SY, Kim YK, Kang JY. MicroRNA-21 inhibition attenuates airway inflammation and remodelling by modulating the transforming growth factor β-Smad7 pathway. Korean J Intern Med 2021; 36:706-720. [PMID: 33601867 PMCID: PMC8137415 DOI: 10.3904/kjim.2020.132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2020] [Accepted: 06/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Current asthma therapies remain unsatisfactory for controlling airway remodelling in asthma. MicroRNA-21 is a key player in asthma pathogenesis, but the molecular mechanisms underlying its effects on airway remodelling are not completely understood. We investigated the effects of inhibition of microRNA-21 on allergic airway inflammation and remodelling. METHODS Female BALB/c mice were divided into four groups: control, ovalbumin-sensitized and -challenged for 3 months, microRNA-negative control-treated ovalbumin-treated, and microRNA-21 inhibitor-treated ovalbumin-treated groups. Parameters related to airway remodelling, cytokine production, airway inflammation, and airway hyperresponsiveness were compared between groups. Human bronchial smooth muscle cells were used in a mechanism study. RESULTS In this asthma model, ovalbumin-sensitized and -challenged mice exhibited allergic airway inf lammation and airway remodelling. MicroRNA-21 inhibitor-treated mice had fewer inflammatory cells, lower TH2 cytokine production, and suppressed parameters related to remodelling such as goblet cell hyperplasia, collagen deposition, hydroxyproline content, and expression of smooth muscle actin. Inhibition of microRNA-21 decreased transforming growth factor β1 expression and induced Smad7 expression in lung tissue. In human bronchial smooth muscle cells stimulated with transforming growth factor β1, microRNA-21 inhibition upregulated Smad7 expression and decreased markers of airway remodelling. CONCLUSION Inhibition of microRNA-21 had both anti-inflammatory and anti-remodelling effects in this model of ovalbumin-induced chronic asthma. Our data suggest that the microRNA-21-transforming growth factor β1-Smad7 axis modulates the pathogenesis of ovalbumin-induced chronic asthma and in human bronchial smooth muscle cells. MicroRNA-21 inhibitors may be a novel therapeutic target in patients with allergic asthma, especially those with airway remodelling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jung Hur
- Division of Allergy and Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Chin Kook Rhee
- Division of Allergy and Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sook Young Lee
- Division of Allergy and Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Young Kyoon Kim
- Division of Allergy and Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ji Young Kang
- Division of Allergy and Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
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Wieczfinska J, Sitarek P, Kowalczyk T, Pawliczak R. Leonurus sibiricus root extracts decrease airway remodeling markers expression in fibroblasts. Clin Exp Immunol 2020; 202:28-46. [PMID: 32562256 DOI: 10.1111/cei.13481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Revised: 05/27/2020] [Accepted: 06/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Bronchial asthma is believed to be provoked by the interaction between airway inflammation and remodeling. Airway remodeling is a complex and poorly understood process, and controlling it appears key for halting the progression of asthma and other obstructive lung diseases. Plants synthesize a number of valuable compounds as constitutive products and as secondary metabolites, many of which have curative properties. The aim of this study was to evaluate the anti-remodeling properties of extracts from transformed and transgenic Leonurus sibiricus roots with transformed L. sibiricus roots extract with transcriptional factor AtPAP1 overexpression (AtPAP1). Two fibroblast cell lines, Wistar Institute-38 (WI-38) and human fetal lung fibroblast (HFL1), were incubated with extracts from transformed L. sibiricus roots (TR) and roots with transcriptional factor AtPAP1 over-expression (AtPAP1 TR). Additionally, remodeling conditions were induced in the cultures with rhinovirus 16 (HRV16). The expressions of metalloproteinase 9 (MMP)-9, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases 1 (TIMP-1), arginase I and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β were determined by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and immunoblotting methods. AtPAP1 TR decreased arginase I and MMP-9 expression with no effect on TIMP-1 or TGF-β mRNA expression. This extract also inhibited HRV16-induced expression of arginase I, MMP-9 and TGF-β in both cell lines (P < 0·05) Our study shows for the first time to our knowledge, that transformed AtPAP1 TR extract from L. sibiricus root may affect the remodeling process. Its effect can be attributed an increased amount of phenolic acids such as: chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid or ferulic acid and demonstrates the value of biotechnology in medicinal research.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Wieczfinska
- Department of Immunopathology, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
| | - P Sitarek
- Department of Biology and Pharmaceutical Botany, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
| | - T Kowalczyk
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Genetics, University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
| | - R Pawliczak
- Department of Immunopathology, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
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12
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Hur J, Kang JY, Kim YK, Lee SY, Jeon S, Kim Y, Jung CK, Rhee CK. Evaluation of Human MSCs Treatment Frequency on Airway Inflammation in a Mouse Model of Acute Asthma. J Korean Med Sci 2020; 35:e188. [PMID: 32537953 PMCID: PMC7295606 DOI: 10.3346/jkms.2020.35.e188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2020] [Accepted: 04/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies in experimental models of allergic asthma have shown that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have therapeutic potential for T-helper 2 (TH2) cell-mediated inflammation. However, the mechanisms underlying these therapeutic effects are not fully understood and their safety has not been confirmed. METHODS Using a mouse model of experimental allergic asthma, we investigated the efficacy of human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hADSCs) or human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSCs) according to treatment frequency and timing. RESULTS Ovalbumin (OVA)-sensitized and -challenged mice exhibited airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR), airway inflammation, and significant increases in TH2 cytokine levels. Both double and single human mesenchymal stem cell (hMSC) treatments significantly decreased AHR and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid counts. In addition, single treatment with hMSCs showed significant attenuation of allergic airway inflammation. However, double treatment with hMSCs during OVA -sensitization and -challenge further increased inflammatory cell infiltration, and TH2 cytokine levels. CONCLUSION The results of treatment with hADSCs or hBMSCs suppresses AHR and airway inflammation. However, double hMSC treatment significantly induces eosinophilic airway inflammation and lung histological changes. Therefore, double hMSC treatment is ineffective against asthma and single injection frequency appears to be more important for the treatment of asthma. These results suggest that hMSC therapy can be used for treatment of asthma patients but that it should be used carefully.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jung Hur
- Division of Allergy and Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ji Young Kang
- Division of Allergy and Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Young Kyoon Kim
- Division of Allergy and Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sook Young Lee
- Division of Allergy and Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sora Jeon
- Department of Hospital Pathology, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yourha Kim
- Department of Hospital Pathology, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Chan Kwon Jung
- Department of Hospital Pathology, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea.
| | - Chin Kook Rhee
- Division of Allergy and Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea.
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Trinh HKT, Lee SH, Cao TBT, Park HS. Asthma pharmacotherapy: an update on leukotriene treatments. Expert Rev Respir Med 2019; 13:1169-1178. [PMID: 31544544 DOI: 10.1080/17476348.2019.1670640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways with a large heterogeneity of clinical phenotypes. There has been increasing interest regarding the role of cysteinyl leukotriene (LT) and leukotriene receptor antagonists (LTRA) in asthma treatment.Areas covered: This review summarized the data (published in PubMed during 1984-2019) regarding LTRA treatment in asthma and LTs-related airway inflammation mechanisms. Involvement of LTs C4/D4/E4 has been demonstrated in the several aspects of airway inflammation and remodeling. Novel pathways related to LTE4, the most potent mediator, and its respective receptors have recently been studied. Antagonists against cysteinyl leukotriene receptor (CysLTR) type 1, including montelukast, pranlukast and zafirlukast, have been widely prescribed in clinical practices; however, some clinical trials have shown insignificant responses to LTRAs in adult asthmatics, while some phenotypes of adult asthma showed more favorable responses to LTRAs including aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease, elderly asthma, asthma associated with smoking, obesity and allergic rhinitis.Expert opinion: Further investigations are needed to understand the role of LTs in airway inflammation and remodeling of the asthmatic airways. There is a lack of biomarkers to predict responsiveness to LTRA, especially in adult asthmatics. Besides CysLTR1 antagonists, targets aiming other LT pathways should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hoang Kim Tu Trinh
- Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Ajou University Medical Center, Suwon, South Korea.,Center for Molecular Biomedicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh city, Ho Chi Minh city, Vietnam
| | - So-Hee Lee
- Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Ajou University Medical Center, Suwon, South Korea
| | | | - Hae-Sim Park
- Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Ajou University Medical Center, Suwon, South Korea.,Department of Biomedicine, Ajou University, Suwon, South Korea
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Wu X, Qiao K, Qin H, Zhang D, Gao D, Yang Z, Fang Z, Guo K. Silver(i)-mediated oxidative C(sp3)–H amination of ethers with azole derivatives under mild conditions. Org Chem Front 2019. [DOI: 10.1039/c9qo00644c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
A silver(i)-mediated oxidative N–H/C(sp3)–H coupling of NH-azoles with ethers has been developed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyu Wu
- College of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering
- Nanjing Tech University
- Nanjing 211816
- P. R. China
| | - Kai Qiao
- College of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering
- Nanjing Tech University
- Nanjing 211816
- P. R. China
| | - Hong Qin
- College of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering
- Nanjing Tech University
- Nanjing 211816
- P. R. China
| | - Dong Zhang
- College of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering
- Nanjing Tech University
- Nanjing 211816
- P. R. China
| | - Di Gao
- College of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering
- Nanjing Tech University
- Nanjing 211816
- P. R. China
| | - Zhao Yang
- School of Engineering
- China Pharmaceutical University
- Nanjing 211198
- China
| | - Zheng Fang
- College of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering
- Nanjing Tech University
- Nanjing 211816
- P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering
| | - Kai Guo
- College of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering
- Nanjing Tech University
- Nanjing 211816
- P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering
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Polydatin attenuates reactive oxygen species-induced airway remodeling by promoting Nrf2-mediated antioxidant signaling in asthma mouse model. Life Sci 2018; 218:25-30. [PMID: 30092299 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2018.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2018] [Revised: 07/18/2018] [Accepted: 08/06/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) play a critical role in transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1-mediated fibrotic airway remodeling in asthma. Polydatin (PD) is a small natural molecule in Chinese medicine; it is isolated from Polygonum cuspidatum and has antioxidative properties. In this study, we aimed to determine whether PD was protective against ROS-induced pulmonary fibrosis in asthma. Ovalbumin (OVA) was used to induce asthma in a mouse model that was treated with or without PD. We also created nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) knockdown BEAS-2B cells and investigated whether PD reversed TGF-β1-induced pulmonary epithelial cell EMT by promotion of Nrf2-mediated antioxidation. Immunofluorescence showed that ROS and TGF-β1 expression was significantly increased in lung tissue from the OVA-induced asthma model. PD treatment inhibited activity of ROS and TGF-β1. Immunohistochemistry showed that PD treatment decreased OVA-induced lung ROS, TGF-β1 expression and fibroblasts. Western blotting showed that PD treatment reversed OVA-induced NADPH oxidase (NOX)1/4 expression by promoting Nrf2-mediated heme oxygenase-1 and NADPH dehydrogenase (quinone)-1 expression. PD treatment suppressed OVA-induced EMT and lung fibroblast protein expression in lung tissue. Nrf2 downregulation suppressed the protective effect of PD by promoting TGF-β1-induced ROS and EMT and accumulation of extracellular-matrix-related protein. All these data indicate that PD has potential therapeutic effects in asthma by promoting Nrf2-mediated antioxidation.
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