1
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Rezi CK, Aslanyan MG, Diwan GD, Cheng T, Chamlali M, Junger K, Anvarian Z, Lorentzen E, Pauly KB, Afshar-Bahadori Y, Fernandes EF, Qian F, Tosi S, Christensen ST, Pedersen SF, Strømgaard K, Russell RB, Miner JH, Mahjoub MR, Boldt K, Roepman R, Pedersen LB. DLG1 functions upstream of SDCCAG3 and IFT20 to control ciliary targeting of polycystin-2. EMBO Rep 2024:10.1038/s44319-024-00170-1. [PMID: 38849673 DOI: 10.1038/s44319-024-00170-1] [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: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Polarized vesicular trafficking directs specific receptors and ion channels to cilia, but the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. Here we describe a role for DLG1, a core component of the Scribble polarity complex, in regulating ciliary protein trafficking in kidney epithelial cells. Conditional knockout of Dlg1 in mouse kidney causes ciliary elongation and cystogenesis, and cell-based proximity labeling proteomics and fluorescence microscopy show alterations in the ciliary proteome upon loss of DLG1. Specifically, the retromer-associated protein SDCCAG3, IFT20, and polycystin-2 (PC2) are reduced in the cilia of DLG1-deficient cells compared to control cells. This phenotype is recapitulated in vivo and rescuable by re-expression of wild-type DLG1, but not a Congenital Anomalies of the Kidney and Urinary Tract (CAKUT)-associated DLG1 variant, p.T489R. Finally, biochemical approaches and Alpha Fold modelling suggest that SDCCAG3 and IFT20 form a complex that associates, at least indirectly, with DLG1. Our work identifies a key role for DLG1 in regulating ciliary protein composition and suggests that ciliary dysfunction of the p.T489R DLG1 variant may contribute to CAKUT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Csenge K Rezi
- Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mariam G Aslanyan
- Department of Human Genetics, Research Institute for Medical Innovation, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Gaurav D Diwan
- BioQuant, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
- Biochemistry Center (BZH), Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Tao Cheng
- Department of Medicine (Nephrology Division) and Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, Washington University, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Mohamed Chamlali
- Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Katrin Junger
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Eberhard Karl University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Zeinab Anvarian
- Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Esben Lorentzen
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics - Protein Science, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Kleo B Pauly
- Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Eduardo Fa Fernandes
- Center for Biopharmaceuticals, Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Feng Qian
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Sébastien Tosi
- Danish BioImaging Infrastructure Image Analysis Core Facility (DBI-INFRA IACF), University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Stine F Pedersen
- Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kristian Strømgaard
- Center for Biopharmaceuticals, Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Robert B Russell
- BioQuant, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
- Biochemistry Center (BZH), Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jeffrey H Miner
- Department of Medicine (Nephrology Division) and Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, Washington University, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Moe R Mahjoub
- Department of Medicine (Nephrology Division) and Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, Washington University, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Karsten Boldt
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Eberhard Karl University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Ronald Roepman
- Department of Human Genetics, Research Institute for Medical Innovation, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Lotte B Pedersen
- Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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2
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Shuai Y, Xu N, Zhao C, Yang F, Ning Z, Li G. MicroRNA-10 Family Promotes Renal Fibrosis through the VASH-1/Smad3 Pathway. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5232. [PMID: 38791272 PMCID: PMC11120755 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25105232] [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: 04/03/2024] [Revised: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Renal fibrosis (RF) stands as a pivotal pathological process in the advanced stages of chronic kidney disease (CKD), and impeding its progression is paramount for delaying the advancement of CKD. The miR-10 family, inclusive of miR-10a and miR-10b, has been implicated in the development of various fibrotic diseases. Nevertheless, the precise role of miR-10 in the development of RF remains enigmatic. In this study, we utilized both an in vivo model involving unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) in mice and an in vitro model employing TGF-β1 stimulation in HK-2 cells to unravel the mechanism underlying the involvement of miR-10a/b in RF. The findings revealed heightened expression of miR-10a and miR-10b in the kidneys of UUO mice, accompanied by a substantial increase in p-Smad3 and renal fibrosis-related proteins. Conversely, the deletion of these two genes led to a notable reduction in p-Smad3 levels and the alleviation of RF in mouse kidneys. In the in vitro model of TGF-β1-stimulated HK-2 cells, the co-overexpression of miR-10a and miR-10b fostered the phosphorylation of Smad3 and RF, while the inhibition of miR-10a and miR-10b resulted in a decrease in p-Smad3 levels and RF. Further research revealed that miR-10a and miR-10b, through binding to the 3'UTR region of Vasohibin-1 (VASH-1), suppressed the expression of VASH-1, thereby promoting the elevation of p-Smad3 and exacerbating the progression of RF. The miR-10 family may play a pivotal role in RF.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Guoxia Li
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China
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3
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Bricher Choque PN, Porter MH, Teixeira MS, Dellê H, Elias RM, Durante B, Dutra MRH, Metz CN, Pavlov VA, Consolim Colombo FM. Cholinergic Stimulation Exerts Cardioprotective Effects and Alleviates Renal Inflammatory Responses after Acute Myocardial Infarction in Spontaneous Hypertensive Rats (SHRs). Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:547. [PMID: 38794117 PMCID: PMC11124479 DOI: 10.3390/ph17050547] [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: 03/07/2024] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In this investigation, we explored the effects of pharmacological cholinergic stimulation on cardiac function and renal inflammation following acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs). METHODS Adult male SHRs were randomized into three experimental groups: sham-operated; AMI + Veh (infarcted, treated with vehicle); and AMI + PY (infarcted, treated with the cholinesterase inhibitor, pyridostigmine bromide (PY)-40 mg/kg, once daily for seven days). Rats were euthanized 7 or 30 days post-surgery. The clinical parameters were assessed on the day before euthanasia. Subsequent to euthanasia, blood samples were collected and renal tissues were harvested for histological and gene expression analyses aimed to evaluate inflammation and injury. RESULTS Seven days post-surgery, the AMI + PY group demonstrated improvements in left ventricular diastolic function and autonomic regulation, and a reduction in renal macrophage infiltration compared to the AMI + Veh group. Furthermore, there was a notable downregulation in pro-inflammatory gene expression and an upregulation in anti-inflammatory gene expression. Analysis 30 days post-surgery showed that PY treatment had a sustained positive effect on renal gene expression, correlated with a decrease in biomarkers, indicative of subclinical kidney injury. CONCLUSIONS Short-term cholinergic stimulation with PY provides both cardiac and renal protection by mitigating the inflammatory response after AMI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamela Nithzi Bricher Choque
- Department of Medicine, Universidade Nove de Julho (Uninove), São Paulo 01504-001, SP, Brazil; (P.N.B.C.); (M.H.P.); (H.D.); (R.M.E.); (M.R.H.D.)
| | - Maria Helena Porter
- Department of Medicine, Universidade Nove de Julho (Uninove), São Paulo 01504-001, SP, Brazil; (P.N.B.C.); (M.H.P.); (H.D.); (R.M.E.); (M.R.H.D.)
| | - Manuella S. Teixeira
- Hypertension Unit, Heart Institute, Medical School, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05403-900, SP, Brazil; (M.S.T.); (B.D.)
| | - Humberto Dellê
- Department of Medicine, Universidade Nove de Julho (Uninove), São Paulo 01504-001, SP, Brazil; (P.N.B.C.); (M.H.P.); (H.D.); (R.M.E.); (M.R.H.D.)
| | - Rosilene Motta Elias
- Department of Medicine, Universidade Nove de Julho (Uninove), São Paulo 01504-001, SP, Brazil; (P.N.B.C.); (M.H.P.); (H.D.); (R.M.E.); (M.R.H.D.)
| | - Bruno Durante
- Hypertension Unit, Heart Institute, Medical School, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05403-900, SP, Brazil; (M.S.T.); (B.D.)
| | - Marina Rascio Henriques Dutra
- Department of Medicine, Universidade Nove de Julho (Uninove), São Paulo 01504-001, SP, Brazil; (P.N.B.C.); (M.H.P.); (H.D.); (R.M.E.); (M.R.H.D.)
| | - Christine N. Metz
- The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY 11030, USA; (C.N.M.); (V.A.P.)
- Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY 11550, USA
| | - Valentin A. Pavlov
- The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY 11030, USA; (C.N.M.); (V.A.P.)
- Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY 11550, USA
| | - Fernanda M. Consolim Colombo
- Department of Medicine, Universidade Nove de Julho (Uninove), São Paulo 01504-001, SP, Brazil; (P.N.B.C.); (M.H.P.); (H.D.); (R.M.E.); (M.R.H.D.)
- Hypertension Unit, Heart Institute, Medical School, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05403-900, SP, Brazil; (M.S.T.); (B.D.)
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4
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Song L, Golman M, Abraham AC, Zelzer E, Thomopoulos S. A role for TGFβ signaling in Gli1+ tendon and enthesis cells. FASEB J 2024; 38:e23568. [PMID: 38522021 PMCID: PMC10962263 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202301452r] [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: 07/16/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
The development of musculoskeletal tissues such as tendon, enthesis, and bone relies on proliferation and differentiation of mesenchymal progenitor cells. Gli1+ cells have been described as putative stem cells in several tissues and are presumed to play critical roles in tissue formation and maintenance. For example, the enthesis, a fibrocartilage tissue that connects tendon to bone, is mineralized postnatally by a pool of Gli1+ progenitor cells. These cells are regulated by hedgehog signaling, but it is unclear if TGFβ signaling, necessary for tenogenesis, also plays a role in their behavior. To examine the role of TGFβ signaling in Gli1+ cell function, the receptor for TGFβ, TbR2, was deleted in Gli1-lineage cells in mice at P5. Decreased TGFβ signaling in these cells led to defects in tendon enthesis formation by P56, including defective bone morphometry underlying the enthesis and decreased mechanical properties. Immunohistochemical staining of these Gli1+ cells showed that loss of TGFβ signaling reduced proliferation and increased apoptosis. In vitro experiments using Gli1+ cells isolated from mouse tail tendons demonstrated that TGFβ controls cell proliferation and differentiation through canonical and non-canonical pathways and that TGFβ directly controls the tendon transcription factor scleraxis by binding to its distant enhancer. These results have implications in the development of treatments for tendon and enthesis pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lee Song
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Columbia University, New York, NY10032, USA
| | - Mikhail Golman
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Columbia University, New York, NY10032, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY10027, USA
| | - Adam C. Abraham
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Elazar Zelzer
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Weizmann Institute of Science, Israel
| | - Stavros Thomopoulos
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Columbia University, New York, NY10032, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY10027, USA
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5
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Ilg MM, Harding S, Lapthorn AR, Kirvell S, Ralph DJ, Bustin SA, Ball G, Cellek S. Temporal gene signature of myofibroblast transformation in Peyronie's disease: first insights into the molecular mechanisms of irreversibility. J Sex Med 2024; 21:278-287. [PMID: 38383071 DOI: 10.1093/jsxmed/qdae006] [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: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transformation of resident fibroblasts to profibrotic myofibroblasts in the tunica albuginea is a critical step in the pathophysiology of Peyronie's disease (PD). We have previously shown that myofibroblasts do not revert to the fibroblast phenotype and we suggested that there is a point of no return at 36 hours after induction of the transformation. However, the molecular mechanisms that drive this proposed irreversibility are not known. AIM Identify molecular pathways that drive the irreversibility of myofibroblast transformation by analyzing the expression of the genes involved in the process in a temporal fashion. METHODS Human primary fibroblasts obtained from tunica albuginea of patients with Peyronie's disease were transformed to myofibroblasts using transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1). The mRNA of the cells was collected at 0, 24, 36, 48, and 72 hours after stimulation with TGF-β1 and then analyzed using a Nanostring nCounter Fibrosis panel. The gene expression results were analyzed using Reactome pathway analysis database and ANNi, a deep learning-based inference algorithm based on a swarm approach. OUTCOMES The study outcome was the time course of changes in gene expression during transformation of PD-derived fibroblasts to myofibroblasts. RESULTS The temporal analysis of the gene expression revealed that the majority of the changes at the gene expression level happened within the first 24 hours and remained so throughout the 72-hour period. At 36 hours, significant changes were observed in genes involved in MAPK-Hedgehog signaling pathways. CLINICAL TRANSLATION This study highlights the importance of early intervention in clinical management of PD and the future potential of new drugs targeting the point of no return. STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS The use of human primary cells and confirmation of results with further RNA analysis are the strengths of this study. The study was limited to 760 genes rather than the whole transcriptome. CONCLUSION This study is to our knowledge the first analysis of temporal gene expression associated with the regulation of the transformation of resident fibroblasts to profibrotic myofibroblasts in PD. Further research is warranted to investigate the role of the MAPK-Hedgehog signaling pathways in reversibility of PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcus M Ilg
- Medical Technology Research Centre, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, CM1 1SQ, United Kingdom
| | - Sophie Harding
- Medical Technology Research Centre, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, CM1 1SQ, United Kingdom
| | - Alice R Lapthorn
- Medical Technology Research Centre, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, CM1 1SQ, United Kingdom
| | - Sara Kirvell
- Medical Technology Research Centre, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, CM1 1SQ, United Kingdom
| | - David J Ralph
- Medical Technology Research Centre, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, CM1 1SQ, United Kingdom
- Urology Department, University College London, London, W1G 8PH, United Kingdom
| | - Stephen A Bustin
- Medical Technology Research Centre, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, CM1 1SQ, United Kingdom
| | - Graham Ball
- Medical Technology Research Centre, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, CM1 1SQ, United Kingdom
| | - Selim Cellek
- Medical Technology Research Centre, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, CM1 1SQ, United Kingdom
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6
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Rezi CK, Aslanyan MG, Diwan GD, Cheng T, Chamlali M, Junger K, Anvarian Z, Lorentzen E, Pauly KB, Afshar-Bahadori Y, Fernandes EFA, Qian F, Tosi S, Christensen ST, Pedersen SF, Strømgaard K, Russell RB, Miner JH, Mahjoub MR, Boldt K, Roepman R, Pedersen LB. DLG1 functions upstream of SDCCAG3 and IFT20 to control ciliary targeting of polycystin-2. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.11.10.566524. [PMID: 37987012 PMCID: PMC10659422 DOI: 10.1101/2023.11.10.566524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
Polarized vesicular trafficking directs specific receptors and ion channels to cilia, but the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. Here we describe a role for DLG1, a core component of the Scribble polarity complex, in regulating ciliary protein trafficking in kidney epithelial cells. Conditional knockout of Dlg1 in mouse kidney caused ciliary elongation and cystogenesis, and cell-based proximity labelling proteomics and fluorescence microscopy showed alterations in the ciliary proteome upon loss of DLG1. Specifically, the retromer-associated protein SDCCAG3, IFT20 and polycystin-2 (PC2) were reduced in cilia of DLG1 deficient cells compared to control cells. This phenotype was recapitulated in vivo and rescuable by re-expression of wildtype DLG1, but not a Congenital Anomalies of the Kidney and Urinary Tract (CAKUT)-associated DLG1 variant, p.T489R. Finally, biochemical approaches and Alpha Fold modelling suggested that SDCCAG3 and IFT20 form a complex that associates, at least indirectly, with DLG1. Our work identifies a key role for DLG1 in regulating ciliary protein composition and suggests that ciliary dysfunction of the p.T489R DLG1 variant may contribute to CAKUT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Csenge K. Rezi
- Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mariam G. Aslanyan
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Gaurav D. Diwan
- BioQuant, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
- Biochemistry Center (BZH), Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Tao Cheng
- Department of Medicine (Nephrology Division) and Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, Washington University, St Louis, MO, USA
| | | | - Katrin Junger
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Eberhard Karl University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | | | - Esben Lorentzen
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics - Protein Science, Aarhus University, Denmark
| | - Kleo B. Pauly
- Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Eduardo F. A. Fernandes
- Center for Biopharmaceuticals, Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Feng Qian
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Sébastien Tosi
- Danish BioImaging Infrastructure Image Analysis Core Facility (DBI-INFRA IACF), University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | | | - Kristian Strømgaard
- Center for Biopharmaceuticals, Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Robert B. Russell
- BioQuant, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
- Biochemistry Center (BZH), Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jeffrey H. Miner
- Department of Medicine (Nephrology Division) and Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, Washington University, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Moe R. Mahjoub
- Department of Medicine (Nephrology Division) and Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, Washington University, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Karsten Boldt
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Eberhard Karl University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Ronald Roepman
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
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7
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Ren F, Aliper A, Chen J, Zhao H, Rao S, Kuppe C, Ozerov IV, Zhang M, Witte K, Kruse C, Aladinskiy V, Ivanenkov Y, Polykovskiy D, Fu Y, Babin E, Qiao J, Liang X, Mou Z, Wang H, Pun FW, Ayuso PT, Veviorskiy A, Song D, Liu S, Zhang B, Naumov V, Ding X, Kukharenko A, Izumchenko E, Zhavoronkov A. A small-molecule TNIK inhibitor targets fibrosis in preclinical and clinical models. Nat Biotechnol 2024:10.1038/s41587-024-02143-0. [PMID: 38459338 DOI: 10.1038/s41587-024-02143-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024]
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is an aggressive interstitial lung disease with a high mortality rate. Putative drug targets in IPF have failed to translate into effective therapies at the clinical level. We identify TRAF2- and NCK-interacting kinase (TNIK) as an anti-fibrotic target using a predictive artificial intelligence (AI) approach. Using AI-driven methodology, we generated INS018_055, a small-molecule TNIK inhibitor, which exhibits desirable drug-like properties and anti-fibrotic activity across different organs in vivo through oral, inhaled or topical administration. INS018_055 possesses anti-inflammatory effects in addition to its anti-fibrotic profile, validated in multiple in vivo studies. Its safety and tolerability as well as pharmacokinetics were validated in a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled phase I clinical trial (NCT05154240) involving 78 healthy participants. A separate phase I trial in China, CTR20221542, also demonstrated comparable safety and pharmacokinetic profiles. This work was completed in roughly 18 months from target discovery to preclinical candidate nomination and demonstrates the capabilities of our generative AI-driven drug-discovery pipeline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Ren
- Insilico Medicine Shanghai Ltd., Shanghai, China
- Insilico Medicine AI Limited, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Alex Aliper
- Insilico Medicine AI Limited, Abu Dhabi, UAE
- Insilico Medicine Hong Kong Ltd., Hong Kong Science and Technology Park, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Jian Chen
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Affiliated Xiaoshan Hospital, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Heng Zhao
- Insilico Medicine Shanghai Ltd., Shanghai, China
| | - Sujata Rao
- Insilico Medicine US Inc., New York, NY, USA
| | - Christoph Kuppe
- Institute of Experimental Medicine and Systems Biology, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
- Department of Nephrology, University Clinic RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Ivan V Ozerov
- Insilico Medicine Hong Kong Ltd., Hong Kong Science and Technology Park, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Man Zhang
- Insilico Medicine Shanghai Ltd., Shanghai, China
| | - Klaus Witte
- Insilico Medicine Hong Kong Ltd., Hong Kong Science and Technology Park, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Chris Kruse
- Insilico Medicine Hong Kong Ltd., Hong Kong Science and Technology Park, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | | | - Yan Ivanenkov
- Insilico Medicine Hong Kong Ltd., Hong Kong Science and Technology Park, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | | | - Yanyun Fu
- Insilico Medicine Shanghai Ltd., Shanghai, China
| | | | - Junwen Qiao
- Insilico Medicine Shanghai Ltd., Shanghai, China
| | - Xing Liang
- Insilico Medicine Shanghai Ltd., Shanghai, China
| | - Zhenzhen Mou
- Insilico Medicine Shanghai Ltd., Shanghai, China
| | - Hui Wang
- Insilico Medicine Shanghai Ltd., Shanghai, China
| | - Frank W Pun
- Insilico Medicine Hong Kong Ltd., Hong Kong Science and Technology Park, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Pedro Torres Ayuso
- Department of Cancer and Cellular Biology, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, PA, USA
| | | | - Dandan Song
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Affiliated Xiaoshan Hospital, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Sang Liu
- Insilico Medicine Shanghai Ltd., Shanghai, China
| | - Bei Zhang
- Insilico Medicine Shanghai Ltd., Shanghai, China
| | - Vladimir Naumov
- Insilico Medicine Hong Kong Ltd., Hong Kong Science and Technology Park, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Xiaoqiang Ding
- Division of Nephrology, Zhongshan Hospital Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Andrey Kukharenko
- Insilico Medicine Hong Kong Ltd., Hong Kong Science and Technology Park, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Evgeny Izumchenko
- Section of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Alex Zhavoronkov
- Insilico Medicine AI Limited, Abu Dhabi, UAE.
- Insilico Medicine Hong Kong Ltd., Hong Kong Science and Technology Park, Hong Kong SAR, China.
- Insilico Medicine US Inc., New York, NY, USA.
- Insilico Medicine Canada Inc, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
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8
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Jash R, Maparu K, Seksaria S, Das S. Decrypting the Pathological Pathways in IgA Nephropathy. RECENT ADVANCES IN INFLAMMATION & ALLERGY DRUG DISCOVERY 2024; 18:43-56. [PMID: 37870060 DOI: 10.2174/0127722708275167231011102924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2023] [Revised: 09/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
IgAN is the most common form of glomerulonephritis affecting 2000000 people annually. The disease ultimately progresses to chronic renal failure and ESRD. In this article, we focused on a comprehensive understanding of the pathogenesis of the disease and thus identifying different target proteins that could be essential in therapeutic approaches in the management of the disease. Aberrantly glycosylated IgA1 produced by the suppression of the enzyme β-1, 3 galactosyltransferase ultimately triggered the formation of IgG autoantibodies which form complexes with Gd-IgA1. The complex gets circulated through the blood vessels through monocytes and ultimately gets deposited in the glomerular mesangial cells via CD71 receptors present locally. This complex triggers the inflammatory pathways activating the alternate complement system, various types of T Cells, toll-like receptors, cytokines, and chemokines ultimately recruiting the phagocytic cells to eliminate the Gd-IgA complex. The inflammatory proteins cause severe mesangial and podocyte damage in the kidney which ultimately initiates the repair process following chronic inflammation by an important protein named TGFβ1. TGF β1 is an important protein produced during chronic inflammation mediating the repair process via various downstream transduction proteins and ultimately producing fibrotic proteins which help in the repair process but permanently damage the glomerular cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajiv Jash
- Department of Pharmacology, Sanaka Educational Trust's Group Of Institutions, Malandighi, Durgapur, 713212, West Bengal, India
- Department of Pharmacy, JIS University, Kolkata, 700109, West Bengal, India
| | - Kousik Maparu
- Department of Pharmacology, Sanaka Educational Trust's Group Of Institutions, Malandighi, Durgapur, 713212, West Bengal, India
| | - Sanket Seksaria
- Department of Pharmacology, Sanaka Educational Trust's Group Of Institutions, Malandighi, Durgapur, 713212, West Bengal, India
| | - Saptarshi Das
- Department of Pharmacy, JIS University, Kolkata, 700109, West Bengal, India
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Kubica S, Szota-Czyż J, Strzałka-Mrozik B, Adamska J, Bębenek E, Chrobak E, Gola JM. The Influence of Betulin Derivatives EB5 and ECH147 on the Expression of Selected TGFβ Superfamily Genes, TGFβ1, GDF15 and BMP2, in Renal Proximal Tubule Epithelial Cells. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2023; 45:9961-9975. [PMID: 38132468 PMCID: PMC10741875 DOI: 10.3390/cimb45120622] [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: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Betulin derivatives are proposed to serve as an alternative to the drugs already established in oncologic treatment. Drug-induced nephrotoxicity leading to acute kidney injury frequently accompanies cancer treatment, and thus there is a need to research the effects of betulin derivatives on renal cells. The objective of our study was to assess the influence of the betulin derivatives 28-propynylobetulin (EB5) and 29-diethoxyphosphoryl-28-propynylobetulin (ECH147) on the expression of TGFβ1, BMP2 and GDF15 in renal proximal tubule epithelial cells (RPTECs) cultured in vitro. The changes in mRNA expression and copy numbers were assessed using real-time reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and the standard curve method, respectively. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to evaluate the effect of the betulin derivatives on the protein concentration in the culture media's supernatant. The assessment of the betulin derivatives' influence on gene expression demonstrated that the mRNA level and protein concentration did not always correlate with each other. Each of the tested compounds affected the mRNA expression. The RT-qPCR analyses showed that EB5 and ECH147 induced effects similar to those of betulin or cisplatin and resulted in a decrease in the mRNA copy number of all the analyzed genes. The ELISA demonstrated that EB5 and ECH147 elevated the protein concentration of TGFβ1 and GDF15, while the level of BMP2 decreased. The concentration of the derivatives used in the treatment was crucial, but the effects did not always exhibit a simple linear dose-dependent relationship. Betulin and its derivatives, EB5 and ECH147, influenced the gene expression of TGFβ1, BMP2 and GDF15 in the renal proximal tubule epithelial cells. The observed effects raise the question of whether treatment with these compounds could promote the development of renal fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Kubica
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences in Sosnowiec, Medical University of Silesia, 40-055 Katowice, Poland; (S.K.); (J.S.-C.); (J.A.); (J.M.G.)
| | - Justyna Szota-Czyż
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences in Sosnowiec, Medical University of Silesia, 40-055 Katowice, Poland; (S.K.); (J.S.-C.); (J.A.); (J.M.G.)
| | - Barbara Strzałka-Mrozik
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences in Sosnowiec, Medical University of Silesia, 40-055 Katowice, Poland; (S.K.); (J.S.-C.); (J.A.); (J.M.G.)
| | - Jolanta Adamska
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences in Sosnowiec, Medical University of Silesia, 40-055 Katowice, Poland; (S.K.); (J.S.-C.); (J.A.); (J.M.G.)
| | - Ewa Bębenek
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences in Sosnowiec, Medical University of Silesia, 40-055 Katowice, Poland; (E.B.); (E.C.)
| | - Elwira Chrobak
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences in Sosnowiec, Medical University of Silesia, 40-055 Katowice, Poland; (E.B.); (E.C.)
| | - Joanna Magdalena Gola
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences in Sosnowiec, Medical University of Silesia, 40-055 Katowice, Poland; (S.K.); (J.S.-C.); (J.A.); (J.M.G.)
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10
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Dwivedi NV, Datta S, El-Kersh K, Sadikot RT, Ganti AK, Batra SK, Jain M. GPCRs and fibroblast heterogeneity in fibroblast-associated diseases. FASEB J 2023; 37:e23101. [PMID: 37486603 PMCID: PMC10916681 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202301091] [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: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are the largest and most diverse class of signaling receptors. GPCRs regulate many functions in the human body and have earned the title of "most targeted receptors". About one-third of the commercially available drugs for various diseases target the GPCRs. Fibroblasts lay the architectural skeleton of the body, and play a key role in supporting the growth, maintenance, and repair of almost all tissues by responding to the cellular cues via diverse and intricate GPCR signaling pathways. This review discusses the dynamic architecture of the GPCRs and their intertwined signaling in pathological conditions such as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, cardiac fibrosis, pancreatic fibrosis, hepatic fibrosis, and cancer as opposed to the GPCR signaling of fibroblasts in physiological conditions. Understanding the dynamics of GPCR signaling in fibroblasts with disease progression can help in the recognition of the complex interplay of different GPCR subtypes in fibroblast-mediated diseases. This review highlights the importance of designing and adaptation of next-generation strategies such as GPCR-omics, focused target identification, polypharmacology, and effective personalized medicine approaches to achieve better therapeutic outcomes for fibrosis and fibrosis associated malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nidhi V Dwivedi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Souvik Datta
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Karim El-Kersh
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Ruxana T Sadikot
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
- VA Nebraska Western Iowa Health Care System
| | - Apar K. Ganti
- VA Nebraska Western Iowa Health Care System
- Division of Oncology and Hematology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
- Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Surinder K Batra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
- Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Maneesh Jain
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
- Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
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11
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Qian H, Lu Z, Hao C, Zhao Y, Bo X, Hu Y, Zhang Y, Yao Y, Ma G, Chen L. TRIM44 aggravates cardiac fibrosis after myocardial infarction via TAK1 stabilization. Cell Signal 2023:110744. [PMID: 37271349 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2023.110744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Myocardial infarction (MI) is one of the most dangerous cardiovascular events. Cardiac fibrosis is a common pathological feature of remodeling after injury that is related to adverse clinical results with no effective treatment. Previous studies have confirmed that TRIM44, an E3 ligase, can promote the proliferation and migration of various tumor cells. However, the role of TRIM44 in cardiac fibrosis remains unknown. Models of TGF-β1 stimulation and MI-induced fibrosis were established to investigate the role and potential underlying mechanism of TRIM44 in cardiac fibrosis. The results showed that cardiac fibrosis was significantly inhibited after TRIM44 knockdown in a mouse model of MI, while it was enhanced when TRIM44 was overexpressed. Furthermore, in vitro studies showed that fibrosis markers were significantly reduced in cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) with TRIM44 knockdown, whereas TRIM44 overexpression promoted the expression of fibrosis markers. Mechanistically, TRIM44 maintains TAK1 stability by inhibiting the degradation of k48-linked polyubiquitination-mediated ubiquitination, thereby increasing phosphorylated TAK1 expression in the fibrotic environment and activating MAPKs to promote fibrosis. Pharmacological inhibition of TAK1 phosphorylation reversed the fibrogenic effects of TRIM44 overexpression. Combined, these results suggest that TRIM44 is a potential therapeutic target for cardiac fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Qian
- Department of Cardiology, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Zhengri Lu
- Department of Cardiology, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Chunshu Hao
- Department of Cardiology, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yuanyuan Zhao
- Department of Cardiology, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Xiangwei Bo
- Department of Cardiology, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Ya Hu
- Department of Cardiology, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yao Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yuyu Yao
- Department of Cardiology, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Genshan Ma
- Department of Cardiology, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Lijuan Chen
- Department of Cardiology, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China; Department of Cardiology, Nanjing Lishui People's Hospital, Zhongda Hospital Lishui Branch, Nanjing 211200, China.
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12
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Roy A, Koike TE, Joshi AS, Tomaz da Silva M, Mathukumalli K, Wu M, Kumar A. Targeted regulation of TAK1 counteracts dystrophinopathy in a DMD mouse model. JCI Insight 2023; 8:e164768. [PMID: 37071470 PMCID: PMC10322678 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.164768] [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: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 04/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Muscular dystrophies make up a group of genetic neuromuscular disorders that involve severe muscle wasting. TGF-β-activated kinase 1 (TAK1) is an important signaling protein that regulates cell survival, growth, and inflammation. TAK1 has been recently found to promote myofiber growth in the skeletal muscle of adult mice. However, the role of TAK1 in muscle diseases remains poorly understood. In the present study, we have investigated how TAK1 affects the progression of dystrophic phenotype in the mdx mouse model of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). TAK1 is highly activated in the dystrophic muscle of mdx mice during the peak necrotic phase. While targeted inducible inactivation of TAK1 inhibits myofiber injury in young mdx mice, it results in reduced muscle mass and contractile function. TAK1 inactivation also causes loss of muscle mass in adult mdx mice. By contrast, forced activation of TAK1 through overexpression of TAK1 and TAB1 induces myofiber growth without having any deleterious effect on muscle histopathology. Collectively, our results suggest that TAK1 is a positive regulator of skeletal muscle mass and that targeted regulation of TAK1 can suppress myonecrosis and ameliorate disease progression in DMD.
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13
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Roy A, Narkar VA, Kumar A. Emerging role of TAK1 in the regulation of skeletal muscle mass. Bioessays 2023; 45:e2300003. [PMID: 36789559 PMCID: PMC10023406 DOI: 10.1002/bies.202300003] [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: 01/06/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
Maintenance of skeletal muscle mass and strength throughout life is crucial for heathy living and longevity. Several signaling pathways have been implicated in the regulation of skeletal muscle mass in adults. TGF-β-activated kinase 1 (TAK1) is a key protein, which coordinates the activation of multiple signaling pathways. Recently, it was discovered that TAK1 is essential for the maintenance of skeletal muscle mass and myofiber hypertrophy following mechanical overload. Forced activation of TAK1 in skeletal muscle causes hypertrophy and attenuates denervation-induced muscle atrophy. TAK1-mediated signaling in skeletal muscle promotes protein synthesis, redox homeostasis, mitochondrial health, and integrity of neuromuscular junctions. In this article, we have reviewed the role and potential mechanisms through which TAK1 regulates skeletal muscle mass and growth. We have also proposed future areas of research that could be instrumental in exploring TAK1 as therapeutic target for improving muscle mass in various catabolic conditions and diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anirban Roy
- Department of Pharmacological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Houston College of Pharmacy, Houston, TX 77204, USA
| | - Vihang A. Narkar
- Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Ashok Kumar
- Department of Pharmacological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Houston College of Pharmacy, Houston, TX 77204, USA
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14
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Chan MKK, Chan ELY, Ji ZZ, Chan ASW, Li C, Leung KT, To KF, Tang PMK. Transforming growth factor-β signaling: from tumor microenvironment to anticancer therapy. EXPLORATION OF TARGETED ANTI-TUMOR THERAPY 2023; 4:316-343. [PMID: 37205317 PMCID: PMC10185444 DOI: 10.37349/etat.2023.00137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling is an important pathway for promoting the pathogenesis of inflammatory diseases, including cancer. The roles of TGF-β signaling are heterogeneous and versatile in cancer development and progression, both anticancer and protumoral actions are reported. Interestingly, increasing evidence suggests that TGF-β enhances disease progression and drug resistance via immune-modulatory actions in the tumor microenvironment (TME) of solid tumors. A better understanding of its regulatory mechanisms in the TME at the molecular level can facilitate the development of precision medicine to block the protumoral actions of TGF-β in the TME. Here, the latest information about the regulatory mechanisms and translational research of TGF-β signaling in the TME for therapeutic development had been summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Max Kam-Kwan Chan
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Emily Lok-Yiu Chan
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Zoey Zeyuan Ji
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Alex Siu-Wing Chan
- Department of Applied Social Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Chunjie Li
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Kam-Tong Leung
- Department of Paediatrics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Ka-Fai To
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Patrick Ming-Kuen Tang
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China
- Correspondence: Patrick Ming-Kuen Tang, Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China.
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15
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He L, Zhu C, Dou H, Yu X, Jia J, Shu M. Keloid Core Factor CTRP3 Overexpression Significantly Controlled TGF- β1-Induced Propagation and Migration in Keloid Fibroblasts. DISEASE MARKERS 2023; 2023:9638322. [PMID: 37091895 PMCID: PMC10115533 DOI: 10.1155/2023/9638322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 04/25/2023]
Abstract
Purpose Keloid is a type of benign fibrous proliferative tumor characterized by excessive scarring. C1q/TNF-related protein 3 (CTRP3) has been proven to possess antifibrotic effect. Here, we explored the role of CTRP3 in keloid. In the current research, we examined the influence of CTRP3 on keloid fibroblasts (KFs) and investigated the potential molecular mechanism. Methods KF tissue specimens and adjacent normal fibroblast (NF) tissues were collected cultured from 10 keloid participants. For the TGF-β1 stimulation group, KFs were processed with human recombinant TGF-β1. Cell transfection of pcDNA3.1-CTRP3 or pcDNA3.1 was performed. The siRNA of CTRP3 (si-CTRP3) or negative control siRNA (si-scramble) was transfected into KFs. Results CTRP3 was downregulated in keloid tissues and KFs. CTRP3 overexpression significantly controlled TGF-β1-induced propagation and migration in KFs. Col I, α-SMA, and fibronectin mRNA and protein levels were enhanced by TGF-β1 stimulation, whereas they were inhibited by CTRP3 overexpression. In contrast, CTRP3 knockdown exhibited the opposite effect. In addition, CTRP3 attenuated TGF-β receptors TRI and TRII in TGF-β1-induced KFs. Furthermore, CTRP3 prevented TGF-β1-stimulated nuclear translocation of smad2 and smad3 and suppressed the expression levels of p-smad2 and p-smad3 in KFs. Conclusion CTRP3 exerted an antifibrotic role through inhibiting proliferation, migration, and ECM accumulation of KFs via regulating TGF-β1/Smad signal path.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin He
- Department of Plastic, Aesthetic and Maxillofacial Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Chan Zhu
- Department of Burns and Cutaneous Surgery, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China
| | - Huicong Dou
- Department of Plastic, Aesthetic and Maxillofacial Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Xueyuan Yu
- Department of Plastic, Aesthetic and Maxillofacial Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Jing Jia
- Department of Plastic, Aesthetic and Maxillofacial Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Maoguo Shu
- Department of Plastic, Aesthetic and Maxillofacial Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, China
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16
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Carrillo C, Ravi V, Tiwari S, Chernoff EA, Belecky-Adams TL. TAK1 inhibition increases proliferation and differentiation of chick retinal cells. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:698233. [PMID: 36176271 PMCID: PMC9513612 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.698233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The factors necessary for the differentiation of cell types within the retina are incompletely understood. The transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) superfamily, including TGF-β1 and 2, the bone morphogenetic proteins, and the activins have all been implicated in differentiation; however, the mechanisms by which these factors affect differentiation are only partially understood. The studies herein focus on a potential role for transforming growth factor β-activated kinase 1 (TAK1), a hub kinase that lies at the intersection of multiple signaling pathways, in the differentiation of cell types within the chick retina. Previous studies have focused predominantly on the role this kinase plays in the inflammation process and axonal growth. TAK1 is downstream of multiple signaling pathways that are critical to development of the central nervous system, including transforming growth factor β (TGFβ), bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), and activins. The present study indicates that activated TAK1 is found throughout the developing retina; however, it is localized at higher levels in dividing and differentiating cells. Further, ex ovo retinal studies using TAK1 inhibitor 5Z-7-oxozeaenol increased both progenitor and differentiating cell populations, accompanied by a substantial increase in proliferation and a smaller increase in cell death. These results indicate a unique role for TAK1 in differentiating and proliferating retinal cells.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Teri L. Belecky-Adams
- Department of Biology, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN, United States
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17
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Multi-Omics Studies Unveil Extraciliary Functions of BBS10 and Show Metabolic Aberrations Underlying Renal Disease in Bardet-Biedl Syndrome. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23169420. [PMID: 36012682 PMCID: PMC9409368 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23169420] [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: 07/24/2022] [Revised: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Bardet–Biedl syndrome (BBS) is a rare autosomal recessive ciliopathy resulting in multiple organ dysfunctions, including chronic kidney disease (CKD). Despite the recent progress in the ’ciliopathy’ field, there is still little information on the mechanisms underlying renal disease. To elucidate these pathomechanisms, we conducted a translational study, including (i) the characterization of the urine metabolomic pattern of BBS patients and controls in a pilot and confirmation study and (ii) the proteomic analysis of the BBS10 interactome, one of the major mutated BBS genes in patients, in a renal-epithelial-derived cell culture model. The urine metabolomic fingerprinting of BBS patients differed from controls in both pilot and confirmation studies, demonstrating an increased urinary excretion of several monocarboxylates, including lactic acid (LA), at both early and late CKD stages. Increased urine LA was detected in the absence of both increased plasmatic LA levels and generalized proximal tubular dysfunction, suggesting a possible renal-specific defective handling. The inner medulla renal epithelial (IMCD3) cell line, where Bbs10 was stably invalidated, displayed an increased proliferative rate, increased ATP production, and an up-regulation of aerobic glycolysis. A mass spectrometry-based analysis detected several putative BBS10 interactors in vitro, indicating a potential role of BBS10 in several biological processes, including renal metabolism, RNA processing, and cell proliferation. The present study suggests that the urine metabolomic pattern of BBS patients may reflect intra-renal metabolic aberrations. The analysis of BBS10 interactors unveils possible novel functions, including cell metabolism.
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Importance of Fibrosis in the Pathogenesis of Uterine Leiomyoma and the Promising Anti-fibrotic Effects of Dipeptidyl Peptidase-4 and Fibroblast Activation Protein Inhibitors in the Treatment of Uterine Leiomyoma. Reprod Sci 2022; 30:1383-1398. [PMID: 35969363 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-022-01064-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
Uterine fibroid or leiomyoma is the most common benign uterus tumor. The tumor is primarily composed of smooth muscle (fibroid) cells, myofibroblast, and a significant amount of extracellular matrix components. It mainly affects women of reproductive age. They are uncommon before menarche and usually disappear after menopause. The fibroids have excessive extracellular matrix components secreted by activated fibroblast cells (myofibroblast). Myofibroblast has the characteristics of fibroblast and smooth muscle cells. These cells possess contractile capability due to the expression of contractile proteins which are normally found only in muscle tissues. The rigid nature of the tumor is responsible for many side effects associated with uterine fibroids. The current drug treatment strategies are primarily hormone-driven and not anti-fibrotic. This paper emphasizes the fibrotic background of uterine fibroids and the mechanisms behind the deposition of excessive extracellular matrix components. The transforming growth factor-β, hippo, and focal adhesion kinase-mediated signaling pathways activate the fibroblast cells and deposit excessive extracellular matrix materials. We also exemplify how dipeptidyl peptidase-4 and fibroblast activation protein inhibitors could be beneficial in reducing the fibrotic process in leiomyoma. Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 and fibroblast activation protein inhibitors prevent the fibrotic process in organs such as the kidneys, lungs, liver, and heart. These inhibitors are proven to inhibit the signaling pathways mentioned above at various stages of their activation. Based on literature evidence, we constructed a narrative review on the mechanisms that support the beneficial effects of dipeptidyl peptidase-4 and fibroblast activation protein inhibitors for treating uterine fibroids.
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Xu X, Poulsen KL, Wu L, Liu S, Miyata T, Song Q, Wei Q, Zhao C, Lin C, Yang J. Targeted therapeutics and novel signaling pathways in non-alcohol-associated fatty liver/steatohepatitis (NAFL/NASH). Signal Transduct Target Ther 2022; 7:287. [PMID: 35963848 PMCID: PMC9376100 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-022-01119-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 47.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Revised: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-alcohol-associated fatty liver/steatohepatitis (NAFL/NASH) has become the leading cause of liver disease worldwide. NASH, an advanced form of NAFL, can be progressive and more susceptible to developing cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Currently, lifestyle interventions are the most essential and effective strategies for preventing and controlling NAFL without the development of fibrosis. While there are still limited appropriate drugs specifically to treat NAFL/NASH, growing progress is being seen in elucidating the pathogenesis and identifying therapeutic targets. In this review, we discussed recent developments in etiology and prospective therapeutic targets, as well as pharmacological candidates in pre/clinical trials and patents, with a focus on diabetes, hepatic lipid metabolism, inflammation, and fibrosis. Importantly, growing evidence elucidates that the disruption of the gut-liver axis and microbe-derived metabolites drive the pathogenesis of NAFL/NASH. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) act as a signaling mediator, resulting in lipid accumulation, macrophage and hepatic stellate cell activation, further promoting inflammation and liver fibrosis progression during the development of NAFL/NASH. Targeting gut microbiota or EVs may serve as new strategies for the treatment of NAFL/NASH. Finally, other mechanisms, such as cell therapy and genetic approaches, also have enormous therapeutic potential. Incorporating drugs with different mechanisms and personalized medicine may improve the efficacy to better benefit patients with NAFL/NASH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohan Xu
- School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China
| | - Kyle L Poulsen
- Department of Anesthesiology, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Lijuan Wu
- School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China
- Innovation Center of Marine Drug Screening & Evaluation, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, China
| | - Shan Liu
- Innovation Center of Marine Drug Screening & Evaluation, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, China
| | - Tatsunori Miyata
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Qiaoling Song
- Innovation Center of Marine Drug Screening & Evaluation, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, China
| | - Qingda Wei
- School of Medicine, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Chenyang Zhao
- School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China
- Innovation Center of Marine Drug Screening & Evaluation, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, China
| | - Chunhua Lin
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, China
| | - Jinbo Yang
- School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China.
- Innovation Center of Marine Drug Screening & Evaluation, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, China.
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20
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New Insights into the Functions of MicroRNAs in Cardiac Fibrosis: From Mechanisms to Therapeutic Strategies. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13081390. [PMID: 36011301 PMCID: PMC9407613 DOI: 10.3390/genes13081390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Revised: 07/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cardiac fibrosis is a significant global health problem associated with almost all types of heart disease. Extensive cardiac fibrosis reduces tissue compliance and contributes to adverse outcomes, such as cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, cardiomyocyte apoptosis, and even heart failure. It is mainly associated with pathological myocardial remodeling, characterized by the excessive deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins in cardiac parenchymal tissues. In recent years, a growing body of evidence demonstrated that microRNAs (miRNAs) have a crucial role in the pathological development of cardiac fibrosis. More than sixty miRNAs have been associated with the progression of cardiac fibrosis. In this review, we summarized potential miRNAs and miRNAs-related regulatory mechanisms for cardiac fibrosis and discussed the potential clinical application of miRNAs in cardiac fibrosis.
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21
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Supriono S, Kalim H, Permatasari N, Susianti H. Moringa oleifera Prevents In vivo Carbon Tetrachloride-Induced Liver Fibrosis through Targeting Hepatic Stellate Cells. Open Access Maced J Med Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.3889/oamjms.2022.9119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Moringa oleifera (MO) exhibits hepatoprotective properties and provides an anti-liver fibrosis effect. However, its mechanism related to the anti-liver fibrosis effect was still unclear.
AIM: The objective of this study was to explain the mechanism of liver fibrosis prevention by MO through hepatic stellate cells (HSCs).
MATERIALS AND METHODS: The liver fibrosis model was induced by the intraperitoneal injection of 10% CCl4 twice a week at a one cc/kg BW dose for 12 weeks and followed by a quantity of 2 cc/kg BW for the past 2 weeks. Ethanol extract of MO leaves (150, 300, and 600 mg/kg) was orally administered daily. Double immunofluorescence staining and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling analysis were applied to analyze the markers involved in HSCs activation and a-HSC apoptosis.
RESULTS: The results showed that the administration of MO could reduce transforming growth factor-β and nuclear factor-kappa B (NFκB), increase the expression of tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand-receptor 2 and caspase-3, and increase the number of apoptosis a-HSCs.
CONCLUSION: This study showed that the ethanol extract of MO leaves could inhibit liver fibrosis by inhibiting HSCs activation and inducing of a-HSCs apoptosis through the extrinsic pathway.
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22
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Roy A, Kumar A. Supraphysiological activation of TAK1 promotes skeletal muscle growth and mitigates neurogenic atrophy. Nat Commun 2022; 13:2201. [PMID: 35459245 PMCID: PMC9033787 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-29752-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Skeletal muscle mass is regulated through coordinated activation of multiple signaling pathways. TAK1 signalosome has been found to be activated in various conditions of muscle atrophy and hypertrophy. However, the role and mechanisms by which TAK1 regulates skeletal muscle mass remain less understood. Here, we demonstrate that supraphysiological activation of TAK1 in skeletal muscle of adult mice stimulates translational machinery, protein synthesis, and myofiber growth. TAK1 causes phosphorylation of elongation initiation factor 4E (eIF4E) independent of mTOR. Inactivation of TAK1 disrupts neuromuscular junction morphology and causes deregulation of Smad signaling. Using genetic approaches, we demonstrate that TAK1 prevents excessive loss of muscle mass during denervation. TAK1 favors the nuclear translocation of Smad4 and cytoplasmic retention of Smad6. TAK1 is also required for the phosphorylation of eIF4E in denervated skeletal muscle. Collectively, our results demonstrate that TAK1 supports skeletal muscle growth and prevents neurogenic muscle atrophy in adult mice. TGF-β-activated kinase 1 (TAK1) is essential for the maintenance of skeletal muscle mass through incompletely understood mechanisms. Here the authors show that supraphysiological activation of TAK1 leads to muscle hypertrophy through the elongation initiation factor 4E (eIF4E) involved in protein synthesis, and prevents denervation-induced atrophy in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anirban Roy
- Department of Pharmacological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Houston College of Pharmacy, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Ashok Kumar
- Department of Pharmacological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Houston College of Pharmacy, Houston, TX, USA.
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23
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Kang H, Seo E, Oh YS, Jun HS. TGF-β activates NLRP3 inflammasome by an autocrine production of TGF-β in LX-2 human hepatic stellate cells. Mol Cell Biochem 2022; 477:1329-1338. [PMID: 35138513 PMCID: PMC8989865 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-022-04369-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Inflammation contributes to the pathogenesis of liver disease, and inflammasome activation has been identified as a major contributor to the amplification of liver inflammation. Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) is a key regulator of liver physiology, contributing to all stages of liver disease. We investigated whether TGF-β is involved in inflammasome-mediated fibrosis in hepatic stellate cells. Treatment with TGF-β increased priming of NLRP3 inflammasome signaling by increasing NLRP3 levels and activating TAK1-NF-kB signaling. Moreover, TGF-β increased the expression of p-Smad2/3-NOX4 in LX-2 cells and consequently increased ROS content, which is a trigger for NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Elevated expression of NEK7 and active caspase-1 was also shown in TGF-β-induced LX-2 cells, and this level was reduced by (5Z)-oxozeaenol, a TAK inhibitor. Finally, TGF-β-treated cells significantly increased TGF-β secretion levels, and their production was inhibited by IL-1β receptor antagonist treatment. In conclusion, TGF-β may represent an endogenous danger signal to the active NLRP3 inflammasome, by which IL-1β mediates TGF-β expression in an autocrine manner. Therefore, targeting the NLRP3 inflammasome may be a promising approach for the development of therapies for TGF-β-induced liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hwansu Kang
- College of Pharmacy and Gachon Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, Gachon University, Incheon, Korea
- Lee Gil Ya Cancer and Diabetes Institute, College of Pharmacy and Gachon Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, 155 Gaetbeol-ro, Yeonsu-ku, Incheon, 21999, Korea
| | - Eunhui Seo
- College of Pharmacy and Gachon Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, Gachon University, Incheon, Korea
- Lee Gil Ya Cancer and Diabetes Institute, College of Pharmacy and Gachon Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, 155 Gaetbeol-ro, Yeonsu-ku, Incheon, 21999, Korea
| | - Yoon Sin Oh
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Eulji University, 553 Sanseong-daero, Sujeong-gu, Seongnam, 13135, Korea.
| | - Hee-Sook Jun
- College of Pharmacy and Gachon Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, Gachon University, Incheon, Korea.
- Lee Gil Ya Cancer and Diabetes Institute, College of Pharmacy and Gachon Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, 155 Gaetbeol-ro, Yeonsu-ku, Incheon, 21999, Korea.
- Gachon Medical Research Institute, Gil Hospital, Incheon, Korea.
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24
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Elwakeel E, Brüggemann M, Wagih J, Lityagina O, Elewa MAF, Han Y, Froemel T, Popp R, Nicolas AM, Schreiber Y, Gradhand E, Thomas D, Nüsing R, Steinmetz-Späh J, Savai R, Fokas E, Fleming I, Greten FR, Zarnack K, Brüne B, Weigert A. Disruption of prostaglandin E2 signaling in cancer-associated fibroblasts limits mammary carcinoma growth but promotes metastasis. Cancer Res 2022; 82:1380-1395. [PMID: 35105690 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-21-2116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Revised: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The activation and differentiation of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF) are involved in tumor progression. Here we show that the tumor-promoting lipid mediator prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) plays a paradoxical role in CAF activation and tumor progression. Restricting PGE2 signaling via knockout of microsomal prostaglandin E synthase-1 (mPGES-1) in PyMT mice or of the prostanoid E receptor 3 (EP3) in CAFs stunted mammary carcinoma growth associated with strong CAF proliferation. CAF proliferation upon EP3 inhibition required p38 MAPK signaling. Mechanistically, TGF-β-activated kinase-like protein (TAK1L), which was identified as a negative regulator of p38 MAPK activation, was decreased following ablation of mPGES-1 or EP3. In contrast to its effects on primary tumor growth, disruption of PGE2 signaling in CAFs induced epithelial to mesenchymal transition in cancer organoids and promoted metastasis in mice. Moreover, TAK1L expression in CAFs was associated with decreased CAF activation, reduced metastasis, and prolonged survival in human breast cancer. These data characterize a new pathway of regulating inflammatory CAF activation, which affects breast cancer progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eiman Elwakeel
- Faculty of Medicine/Institute of Biochemistry I, Goethe University Frankfurt
| | - Mirko Brüggemann
- Computational RNA Biology, Buchmann Institute for Molecular Life Sciences (BMLS) and Faculty of Biological Sciences, Goethe University Frankfurt
| | - Jessica Wagih
- Institute of Biochemistry I, Goethe University Frankfurt
| | - Olga Lityagina
- Institute of Biochemistry I, Goethe University Frankfurt
| | | | - Yingying Han
- Institute of Biochemistry I, Goethe University Frankfurt
| | | | - Rüdiger Popp
- Insitute of Vascular Signalling, Goethe University Frankfurt
| | - Adele M Nicolas
- Institute for Tumor Biology and Experimental Therapy, Georg Speyer Haus
| | - Yannick Schreiber
- Fraunhofer Institute for Translational Medicine and Pharmacology, Frankfurt
| | - Elise Gradhand
- Senckenbergisches Institut für Pathologie, Goethe University Frankfurt
| | | | - Rolf Nüsing
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Goethe University
| | - Julia Steinmetz-Späh
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Solna, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospita
| | - Rajkumar Savai
- Lung Microenvironmental Niche in Cancerogenesis, Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research
| | - Emmanouil Fokas
- Radiation Therapy and Oncology, Goethe University Frankfurt am Main
| | | | - Florian R Greten
- Georg-Speyer-Haus, Institute for Tumor Biology and Experimental Therapy Paul-Ehrlich-Str
| | - Kathi Zarnack
- Buchmann Institute for Molecular Life Sciences (BMLS) and Faculty of Biological Sciences, Goethe University Frankfurt
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25
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Wnt/β-catenin signalling: function, biological mechanisms, and therapeutic opportunities. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2022; 7:3. [PMID: 34980884 PMCID: PMC8724284 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-021-00762-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 493] [Impact Index Per Article: 246.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Revised: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The Wnt/β-catenin pathway comprises a family of proteins that play critical roles in embryonic development and adult tissue homeostasis. The deregulation of Wnt/β-catenin signalling often leads to various serious diseases, including cancer and non-cancer diseases. Although many articles have reviewed Wnt/β-catenin from various aspects, a systematic review encompassing the origin, composition, function, and clinical trials of the Wnt/β-catenin signalling pathway in tumour and diseases is lacking. In this article, we comprehensively review the Wnt/β-catenin pathway from the above five aspects in combination with the latest research. Finally, we propose challenges and opportunities for the development of small-molecular compounds targeting the Wnt signalling pathway in disease treatment.
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26
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Yang W, Ge F, Lu S, Shan Z, Peng L, Chai J, Liu H, Li B, Zhang Z, Huang J, Hua Y, Zhang Y. LncRNA MSC-AS1 Is a Diagnostic Biomarker and Predicts Poor Prognosis in Patients With Gastric Cancer by Integrated Bioinformatics Analysis. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:795427. [PMID: 34926534 PMCID: PMC8674534 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.795427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Numerous studies have shown that long uncoded RNA (lncRNA) MSC-AS1 may play an important role in the occurrence and development of some types of cancer. However, its role in gastric cancer has rarely been discussed. This study aimed to clarify the association between lncRNA MSC-AS1 and gastric cancer using The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. We determined the expression of MSC-AS1 using the Wilcoxon rank sum test; in addition, logistic regression was applied to evaluate the association between MSC-AS1 and clinicopathological characteristics. Also, Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression were used to evaluate the relationship between MSC-AS1 and survival. A nomogram was conducted to predict the impact of MSC-AS1 on prognosis. Moreover, Gene Set enrichment analysis (GSEA) was performed to annotate the biological function of MSC-AS1. Quantitative analysis of immune infiltration was carried out by single-set GSEA (ssGSEA). The MSC-AS1 level was elevated in gastric cancer tissues. An increased MSC-AS1 level was significantly correlated with T stage (odds ratio [OR] = 2.55 for T3 and T4 vs. T1 and T2), histological type (OR = 5.28 for diffuse type vs. tubular type), histological grade (OR = 3.09 for grade 3 vs. grades 1 and 2), TP53 status (OR = 0.55 for mutated vs. wild type), and PIK3CA status (OR = 0.55 for mutated vs. wild type) (all p < 0.05) by univariate logistic regression. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed high MSC-AS1 expression had a poor overall survival [hazard ratio (HR) = 1.75; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.25-2.45; p = 0.001] and progression-free interval (HR = 1.47; 95% CI: 1.03-2.10; p = 0.034). Multivariate survival analysis revealed that MSC-AS1 expression (HR = 1.681; 95% CI: 1.057-2.673; p = 0.028) was independently correlated with overall survival. GSEA demonstrated that the P38/MAPK pathway, the VEGF pathway, the cell adhesion molecules cams, the NOD-like receptor signaling pathway were differentially enriched in the high MSC-AS1 expression phenotype. SsGSEA and Spearman correlation revealed the relationships between MSC-AS1 and macrophages, NK cells, and Tems were the strongest. Coregulatory proteins were included in the PPI network. Upregulated lncRNA MSC-AS1 might be a potential biomarker for the diagnosis and prognosis of gastric cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Yang
- Department of General Surgery, Henan Cancer Hospital, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Fusheng Ge
- Department of General Surgery, Henan Cancer Hospital, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Shuaibing Lu
- Department of General Surgery, Henan Cancer Hospital, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Zhiming Shan
- Clinical Laboratory, The Children's Hospital of Henan Province, Zhengzhou Children's Hospital, The Affiliated Children Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Liangqun Peng
- Department of General Surgery, Henan Cancer Hospital, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Junhui Chai
- Department of General Surgery, Henan Cancer Hospital, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Hongxing Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Henan Cancer Hospital, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Baodong Li
- Department of General Surgery, Henan Cancer Hospital, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Zhandong Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Henan Cancer Hospital, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jinxi Huang
- Department of General Surgery, Henan Cancer Hospital, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yawei Hua
- Department of General Surgery, Henan Cancer Hospital, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yonglei Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Henan Cancer Hospital, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
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27
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Baghaei K, Mazhari S, Tokhanbigli S, Parsamanesh G, Alavifard H, Schaafsma D, Ghavami S. Therapeutic potential of targeting regulatory mechanisms of hepatic stellate cell activation in liver fibrosis. Drug Discov Today 2021; 27:1044-1061. [PMID: 34952225 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2021.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Revised: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis is a manifestation of different etiologies of liver disease with the involvement of multiple mediators in complex network interactions. Activated hepatic stellate cells (aHSCs) are the central driver of hepatic fibrosis, given their potential to induce connective tissue formation and extracellular matrix (ECM) protein accumulation. Therefore, identifying the cellular and molecular pathways involved in the activation of HSCs is crucial in gaining mechanistic and therapeutic perspectives to more effectively target the disease. In addition to a comprehensive summary of our current understanding of the role of HSCs in liver fibrosis, we also discuss here the proposed therapeutic strategies based on targeting HSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaveh Baghaei
- Basic and Molecular Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Disorders Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1985717413, Iran; Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1985717413, Iran
| | - Sogol Mazhari
- Basic and Molecular Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Disorders Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1985717413, Iran
| | - Samaneh Tokhanbigli
- Basic and Molecular Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Disorders Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1985717413, Iran
| | - Gilda Parsamanesh
- Basic and Molecular Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Disorders Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1985717413, Iran
| | - Helia Alavifard
- Basic and Molecular Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Disorders Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1985717413, Iran
| | | | - Saeid Ghavami
- Department of Human Anatomy and Cell Science, Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada.
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28
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Sun W, Byon CH, Kim DH, Choi HI, Park JS, Joo SY, Kim IJ, Jung I, Bae EH, Ma SK, Kim SW. Renoprotective Effects of Maslinic Acid on Experimental Renal Fibrosis in Unilateral Ureteral Obstruction Model via Targeting MyD88. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:708575. [PMID: 34588982 PMCID: PMC8475766 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.708575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Maslinic acid (MA), also named crategolic acid, is a pentacyclic triterpene extracted from fruits and vegetables. Although various beneficial pharmacological effects of MA have been revealed, its effect on renal fibrosis remains unclear. This study was designed to clarify whether MA could attenuate renal fibrosis and determine the putative underlying molecular mechanisms. We demonstrated that MA-treated mice with unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) developed a histological injury of low severity and exhibited downregulated expression of fibrotic markers, including α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), vimentin, and fibronectin by 38, 44 and 40%, and upregulated expression of E-cadherin by 70% as compared with untreated UUO mice. Moreover, MA treatment restored the expression levels of α-SMA, connective tissue growth factor, and vimentin to 10, 7.8 and 38% of those induced by transforming growth factor (TGF)-β in NRK49F cells. MA decreased expression of Smad2/3 phosphorylation and Smad4 in UUO kidneys and TGF-β treated NRK49F cells (p < 0.05, respectively). Notably, MA specifically interferes with MyD88, an adaptor protein, thereby mitigating Smad4 nuclear expression (p < 0.01 compared to TGF-β treated group) and ameliorating renal fibrotic changes (p < 0.01 for each fibrotic markers compared to TGF-β induced cells). In addition, in the UUO model and lipopolysaccharide-induced NRK49F cells, MA treatment decreased the expression of IL-1β, TGF-α and MCP-1, ICAM-1, associated with the suppression of NF-κB signaling. These findings suggest that MA is a potential agent that can reduce renal interstitial fibrosis, to some extent, via targeting TGF-β/Smad and MyD88 signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjuan Sun
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, South Korea
| | - Chang Hyun Byon
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, South Korea
| | - Dong Hyun Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, South Korea
| | - Hoon In Choi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, South Korea
| | - Jung Sun Park
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, South Korea
| | - Soo Yeon Joo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, South Korea
| | - In Jin Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, South Korea
| | - Inae Jung
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, South Korea
| | - Eun Hui Bae
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, South Korea
| | - Seong Kwon Ma
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, South Korea
| | - Soo Wan Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, South Korea
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29
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Wahba NS, Abdel-Ghany RH, Ghareib SA, Abdel-Aal M, Alsemeh AE, Sabry D. Vitamin D3 potentiates the nephroprotective effects of vildagliptin-metformin combination in a rat model of metabolic syndrome. Fundam Clin Pharmacol 2021; 36:306-323. [PMID: 34453360 DOI: 10.1111/fcp.12721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The current study was conducted to investigate the nephroprotective effects of vildagliptin-metformin combination in an experimental model of fructose/salt-induced metabolic syndrome (MetS). A major aim was to evaluate the potential capacity of vitamin D3 to potentiate the pleiotropic nephroprotective effects of vildagliptin-metformin combination. MetS was induced in adult male Wistar rats by adding fructose (10%) to everyday drinking water and salt (3%) to the diet for 6 weeks. Along with the same concentrations of fructose/salt feeding, MetS rats were then treated orally with either vildagliptin (10 mg/kg/day)-metformin (200 mg/kg/day) combination, vitamin D3 (10 μg/kg/day), or the triple therapy for a further 6 weeks. The incidence of MetS was confirmed 6 weeks after fructose/salt consumption, when the rats exhibited significant weight gain, dyslipidemia, hyperuricemia, insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia, and impaired glucose tolerance. At the end of the 12-week experimental period, MetS rats displayed significantly deteriorated renal function, enhanced intrarenal oxidative stress and inflammation together with exaggerated renal histopathological damages and interstitial fibrosis. The study has corroborated antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antifibrotic effects of vildagliptin-metformin combination, vitamin D3, and the triple collaborative therapy, conferring renoprotection in the setting of MetS. Due attention has been paid to the crucial role of dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibition and sirtuin-1/5' adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase activation as novel therapeutic targets to optimize renoprotection. The apparent potentiating effect, evoked upon coadministration of vitamin D3 with vildagliptin-metformin combination, may provide a cornerstone for further clinical investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nehal S Wahba
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Rasha H Abdel-Ghany
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Salah A Ghareib
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Abdel-Aal
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Amira E Alsemeh
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Human Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Dina Sabry
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt.,Department of Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Badr University in Cairo, Badr City, Egypt
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30
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Chong ZX, Yeap SK, Ho WY. Unraveling the roles of miRNAs in regulating epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in osteosarcoma. Pharmacol Res 2021; 172:105818. [PMID: 34400316 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2021.105818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Revised: 08/01/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Osteosarcoma is one of the most prevalent primary bone tumors with a high metastatic and recurrence rate with poor prognosis. MiRNAs are short and non-coding RNAs that could regulate various cellular activities and one of them is the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Osteosarcoma cells that have undergone EMT would lose their cellular polarity and acquire invasive and metastatic characteristics. Our literature search showed that many pre-clinical and clinical studies have reported the roles of miRNAs in modulating the EMT process in osteosarcoma and compared to other cancers like breast cancer, there is a lack of review article which effectively summarizes the various roles of EMT-regulating miRNAs in osteosarcoma. This review, therefore, was aimed to discuss and summarize the EMT-promoting and EMT-suppressing roles of different miRNAs in osteosarcoma. The review would begin with the discussion on the concepts and principles of EMT, followed by the exploration of the diverse roles of EMT-regulating miRNAs in osteosarcoma. Subsequently, the potential use of miRNAs as prognostic biomarkers in osteosarcoma to predict the likelihood of metastases and as therapeutic agents would be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi Xiong Chong
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Nottingham Malaysia, 43500 Semenyih, Selangor, Malaysia.
| | - Swee Keong Yeap
- China-ASEAN College of Marine Sciences, Xiamen University Malaysia, 43900 Sepang, Selangor, Malaysia.
| | - Wan Yong Ho
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Nottingham Malaysia, 43500 Semenyih, Selangor, Malaysia.
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31
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Barro L, Hsiao JT, Chen CY, Chang YL, Hsieh MF. Cytoprotective Effect of Liposomal Puerarin on High Glucose-Induced Injury in Rat Mesangial Cells. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:antiox10081177. [PMID: 34439425 PMCID: PMC8388880 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10081177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In diabetic patients, high glucose and high oxidative states activate gene expression of transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) and further translocate Smad proteins into the nucleus of renal cells. This signal pathway is characterized as the onset of diabetic nephropathy. Puerarin is an active ingredient extracted from Pueraria lobata as an anti-hyperglycemic and anti-oxidative agent. However, the poor oral availability and aqueous solubility limit its pharmaceutical applications. The present paper reports the liposomal puerarin and its protective effect on high glucose-injured rat mesangial cells (RMCs). The purity of puerarin extracted from the root of plant Pueraria lobata was 83.4% as determined by the high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method. The liposomal puerarin was fabricated by membrane hydration followed by ultrasound dispersion and membrane extrusion (pore size of 200 nm). The fabricated liposomes were examined for the loading efficiency and contents of puerarin, the particle characterizations, the radical scavenge and the protective effect in rat mesangial cells, respectively. When the liposomes were subjected to 20 times of membrane extrusion, the particle size of liposomal puerarin can be reduced to less than 200 nm. When liposomal puerarin in RMCs in high glucose concentration (33 mM) was administered, the over-expression of TGF-β and the nuclear translocation of Smad 2/3 proteins was both inhibited. Therefore, this study successfully prepared the liposomal puerarin and showed the cytoprotective effect in RMCs under high glucose condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lassina Barro
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Chung Yuan Christian University, Taoyuan 320, Taiwan; (L.B.); (J.-T.H.); (C.-Y.C.); (Y.-L.C.)
| | - Jui-Ting Hsiao
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Chung Yuan Christian University, Taoyuan 320, Taiwan; (L.B.); (J.-T.H.); (C.-Y.C.); (Y.-L.C.)
| | - Chu-Yin Chen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Chung Yuan Christian University, Taoyuan 320, Taiwan; (L.B.); (J.-T.H.); (C.-Y.C.); (Y.-L.C.)
| | - Yu-Lung Chang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Chung Yuan Christian University, Taoyuan 320, Taiwan; (L.B.); (J.-T.H.); (C.-Y.C.); (Y.-L.C.)
- Department of Urology, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Taoyuan 320, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Fa Hsieh
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Chung Yuan Christian University, Taoyuan 320, Taiwan; (L.B.); (J.-T.H.); (C.-Y.C.); (Y.-L.C.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +886-3265-4550
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Inflammation and Oxidative Damage in Ischaemic Renal Disease. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:antiox10060845. [PMID: 34070611 PMCID: PMC8227971 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10060845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Revised: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Ischaemic renal disease as result of atherosclerotic renovascular disease activates a complex biological response that ultimately leads to fibrosis and chronic kidney disease. Large randomised control trials have shown that renal revascularisation in patients with atherosclerotic renal artery disease does not confer any additional benefit to medical therapy alone. This is likely related to the activation of complex pathways of oxidative stress, inflammatory cytokines and fibrosis due to atherosclerotic disease and hypoxic injury due to reduced renal blood flow. New evidence from pre-clinical trials now indicates a role for specific targeted therapeutic interventions to counteract this complex pathogenesis. This evidence now suggests that the focus for those with atherosclerotic renovascular disease should be a combination of revascularisation and renoprotective therapies that target the renal tissue response to ischaemia, reduce the inflammatory infiltrate and prevent or reduce the fibrosis.
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Budi EH, Schaub JR, Decaris M, Turner S, Derynck R. TGF-β as a driver of fibrosis: physiological roles and therapeutic opportunities. J Pathol 2021; 254:358-373. [PMID: 33834494 DOI: 10.1002/path.5680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Revised: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Many chronic diseases are marked by fibrosis, which is defined by an abundance of activated fibroblasts and excessive deposition of extracellular matrix, resulting in loss of normal function of the affected organs. The initiation and progression of fibrosis are elaborated by pro-fibrotic cytokines, the most critical of which is transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1). This review focuses on the fibrogenic roles of increased TGF-β activities and underlying signaling mechanisms in the activated fibroblast population and other cell types that contribute to progression of fibrosis. Insight into these roles and mechanisms of TGF-β as a universal driver of fibrosis has stimulated the development of therapeutic interventions to attenuate fibrosis progression, based on interference with TGF-β signaling. Their promise in preclinical and clinical settings will be discussed. © 2021 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erine H Budi
- Pliant Therapeutics Inc, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | | | - Scott Turner
- Pliant Therapeutics Inc, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Rik Derynck
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, and Department of Cell and Tissue Biology, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
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34
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Theret M, Low M, Rempel L, Li FF, Tung LW, Contreras O, Chang CK, Wu A, Soliman H, Rossi FMV. In vitro assessment of anti-fibrotic drug activity does not predict in vivo efficacy in murine models of Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Life Sci 2021; 279:119482. [PMID: 33891939 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.119482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Revised: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
AIM Fibrosis is the most common complication from chronic diseases, and yet no therapy capable of mitigating its effects is available. Our goal is to unveil specific signaling regulating the fibrogenic process and to identify potential small molecule candidates that block fibrogenic differentiation of fibro/adipogenic progenitors. METHOD We performed a large-scale drug screen using muscle-resident fibro/adipogenic progenitors from a mouse model expressing EGFP under the Collagen1a1 promotor. We first confirmed that the EGFP was expressed in response to TGFβ1 stimulation in vitro. Then we treated cells with TGFβ1 alone or with drugs from two libraries of known compounds. The drugs ability to block the fibrogenic differentiation was quantified by imaging and flow cytometry. From a two-rounds screening, positive hits were tested in vivo in the mice model for the Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (mdx mice). The histopathology of the muscles was assessed with picrosirius red (fibrosis) and laminin staining (myofiber size). KEY FINDINGS From the in vitro drug screening, we identified 21 drugs and tested 3 in vivo on the mdx mice. None of the three drugs significantly improved muscle histopathology. SIGNIFICANCE The in vitro drug screen identified various efficient compounds, none of them strongly inhibited fibrosis in skeletal muscle of mdx mice. To explain these observations, we hypothesize that in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, in which fibrosis is a secondary event due to chronic degeneration and inflammation, the drugs tested could have adverse effect on regeneration or inflammation, balancing off any positive effects and leading to the absence of significant results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marine Theret
- School of Biomedical Engineering and the Biomedical Research Centre, Department of Medical Genetics, 2222 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada.
| | - Marcela Low
- School of Biomedical Engineering and the Biomedical Research Centre, Department of Medical Genetics, 2222 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Lucas Rempel
- School of Biomedical Engineering and the Biomedical Research Centre, Department of Medical Genetics, 2222 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Fang Fang Li
- School of Biomedical Engineering and the Biomedical Research Centre, Department of Medical Genetics, 2222 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Lin Wei Tung
- School of Biomedical Engineering and the Biomedical Research Centre, Department of Medical Genetics, 2222 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Osvaldo Contreras
- Developmental and Stem Cell Biology Division, Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia; Departamento de Biología Celular y Molecular and Center for Aging and Regeneration (CARE-ChileUC), Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, 8331150 Santiago, Chile
| | - Chih-Kai Chang
- School of Biomedical Engineering and the Biomedical Research Centre, Department of Medical Genetics, 2222 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Andrew Wu
- School of Biomedical Engineering and the Biomedical Research Centre, Department of Medical Genetics, 2222 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Hesham Soliman
- School of Biomedical Engineering and the Biomedical Research Centre, Department of Medical Genetics, 2222 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Minia University, Minia, Egypt
| | - Fabio M V Rossi
- School of Biomedical Engineering and the Biomedical Research Centre, Department of Medical Genetics, 2222 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
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Li Y, Zhang Z, Xu K, Du S, Gu X, Cao R, Cui S. Minocycline alleviates peripheral nerve adhesion by promoting regulatory macrophage polarization via the TAK1 and its downstream pathway. Life Sci 2021; 276:119422. [PMID: 33781833 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.119422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Revised: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Inflammation plays a key role in peripheral nerve adhesion and often leads to severe pain and nerve dysfunction. Minocycline was reported to have potent anti-inflammatory effects and might be a promising drug to prevent or attenuate peripheral nerve adhesion. The present study aimed to clarify whether minocycline contributes to nerve adhesion protection and its underlying mechanism. MATERIALS AND METHODS Rats with sciatic nerve adhesion induced by glutaraldehyde glue (GG) were intraperitoneally injected with minocycline or saline every 12 h for 7 consecutive days. After that, the adhesion score, Ashcroft score, demyelination, macrophage polarization and inflammatory factors in peripheral nerve adhesion tissues or tissues in sham group were determined with histological staining, western blot and real time-PCR. Murine macrophage RAW264.7 cells were stimulated by LPS alone or together with minocycline at different concentrations and time duration to study the mechanism of minocycline in alleviating nerve adhesion. KEY FINDINGS We found that minocycline treatment reduced the adhesion score, Ashcroft score, the growth of scar tissue, demyelination, and macrophage recruitment. Moreover, minocycline significantly and dose-dependently promoted regulatory macrophage polarization but decreased pro-inflammatory macrophage polarization. Furthermore, mechanism studies showed that TAK1 and its downstream pathway p38/JNK/ERK1/2/p65 were inhibited by minocycline, which led to lower IL-1β and TNFα expression, but increased IL-10 expression. SIGNIFICANCE Altogether, these results suggest that minocycline is highly effective against peripheral nerve adhesion through anti-fibrosis, anti-inflammation, and myelination protection, making it a highly promising candidate for treating adhesion-related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yueying Li
- Department of Hand Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, No. 126 Xiantai Street, Changchun 130033, PR China
| | - Zhan Zhang
- Department of Hand Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, No. 126 Xiantai Street, Changchun 130033, PR China
| | - Ke Xu
- Department of Hand Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, No. 126 Xiantai Street, Changchun 130033, PR China
| | - Shuang Du
- Department of Hand Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, No. 126 Xiantai Street, Changchun 130033, PR China
| | - Xiaosong Gu
- Department of Hand Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, No. 126 Xiantai Street, Changchun 130033, PR China; Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Jiangsu Clinical Medicine Center of Tissue Engineering and Nerve Injury Repair, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, PR China.
| | - Rangjuan Cao
- Department of Hand Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, No. 126 Xiantai Street, Changchun 130033, PR China.
| | - Shusen Cui
- Department of Hand Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, No. 126 Xiantai Street, Changchun 130033, PR China.
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36
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Activation of GPR120 in podocytes ameliorates kidney fibrosis and inflammation in diabetic nephropathy. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2021; 42:252-263. [PMID: 32948825 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-020-00520-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2020] [Accepted: 08/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is one of the most common causes of end-stage renal disease worldwide. ω3-Fatty acids (ω3FAs) were found to attenuate kidney inflammation, glomerulosclerosis, and albuminuria in experimental and clinical studies of DN. As G protein-coupled receptor 120 (GPR120) was firstly identified as the receptor of ω3FAs, we here investigated the function of GPR120 in DN. We first examined the renal biopsies of DN patients, and found that GPR120 expression was negatively correlated with the progression of DN. Immunofluorescence staining analysis revealed that GPR120 protein was mainly located in the podocytes of the glomerulus. A potent and selective GPR120 agonist TUG-891 (35 mg · kg-1 · d-1, ig) was administered to db/db mice for 4 weeks. We showed that TUG-891 administration significantly improved urinary albumin excretion, protected against podocyte injury, and reduced collagen deposition in the glomerulus. In db/db mice, TUG-891 administration significantly inhibited the mRNA and protein expression of fibronectin, collagen IV, α-SMA, TGF-β1, and IL-6, and downregulated the phosphorylation of Smad3 and STAT3 to alleviate glomerulosclerosis. Similar results were observed in high-glucose-treated MPC5 podocytes in the presence of TUG-891 (10 μM). Furthermore, we showed that TUG-891 effectively upregulated GPR120 expression, and suppressed TAK1-binding protein-1 expression as well as the phosphorylation of TAK1, IKKβ, NF-κB p65, JNK, and p38 MAPK in db/db mice and high-glucose-treated MPC5 podocytes. Knockdown of GPR120 in MPC5 podocytes caused the opposite effects of TUG-891. In summary, our results highlight that activation of GPR120 in podocytes ameliorates renal inflammation and fibrosis to protect against DN.
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37
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Bracco Gartner TCL, Stein JM, Muylaert DEP, Bouten CVC, Doevendans PA, Khademhosseini A, Suyker WJL, Sluijter JPG, Hjortnaes J. Advanced In Vitro Modeling to Study the Paradox of Mechanically Induced Cardiac Fibrosis. Tissue Eng Part C Methods 2021; 27:100-114. [PMID: 33407000 DOI: 10.1089/ten.tec.2020.0298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In heart failure, cardiac fibrosis is the result of an adverse remodeling process. Collagen is continuously synthesized in the myocardium in an ongoing attempt of the heart to repair itself. The resulting collagen depositions act counterproductively, causing diastolic dysfunction and disturbing electrical conduction. Efforts to treat cardiac fibrosis specifically have not been successful and the molecular etiology is only partially understood. The differentiation of quiescent cardiac fibroblasts to extracellular matrix-depositing myofibroblasts is a hallmark of cardiac fibrosis and a key aspect of the adverse remodeling process. This conversion is induced by a complex interplay of biochemical signals and mechanical stimuli. Tissue-engineered 3D models to study cardiac fibroblast behavior in vitro indicate that cyclic strain can activate a myofibroblast phenotype. This raises the question how fibroblast quiescence is maintained in the healthy myocardium, despite continuous stimulation of ultimately profibrotic mechanotransductive pathways. In this review, we will discuss the convergence of biochemical and mechanical differentiation signals of myofibroblasts, and hypothesize how these affect this paradoxical quiescence. Impact statement Mechanotransduction pathways of cardiac fibroblasts seem to ultimately be profibrotic in nature, but in healthy human myocardium, cardiac fibroblasts remain quiescent, despite continuous mechanical stimulation. We propose three hypotheses that could explain this paradoxical state of affairs. Furthermore, we provide suggestions for future research, which should lead to a better understanding of fibroblast quiescence and activation, and ultimately to new strategies for the prevention and treatment of cardiac fibrosis and heart failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas C L Bracco Gartner
- Division of Heart and Lungs, Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Jeroen M Stein
- Division of Heart and Lungs, Laboratory of Experimental Cardiology, Department of Cardiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Regenerative Medicine Center Utrecht, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Dimitri E P Muylaert
- Regenerative Medicine Center Utrecht, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Carlijn V C Bouten
- Division of Soft Tissue Engineering and Mechanobiology, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, the Netherlands
| | - Pieter A Doevendans
- Division of Heart and Lungs, Laboratory of Experimental Cardiology, Department of Cardiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Regenerative Medicine Center Utrecht, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Division of Heart and Lungs, Department of Cardiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,University Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Netherlands Heart Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Central Military Hospital, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Ali Khademhosseini
- Department of Bioengineering, Radiology, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Center for Minimally Invasive Therapeutics (C-MIT), University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Willem J L Suyker
- Division of Heart and Lungs, Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Regenerative Medicine Center Utrecht, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,University Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Joost P G Sluijter
- Division of Heart and Lungs, Laboratory of Experimental Cardiology, Department of Cardiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Regenerative Medicine Center Utrecht, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,University Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Jesper Hjortnaes
- Division of Heart and Lungs, Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Regenerative Medicine Center Utrecht, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,University Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
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38
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Irnaten M, Duff A, Clark A, O’Brien C. Intra-Cellular Calcium Signaling Pathways (PKC, RAS/RAF/MAPK, PI3K) in Lamina Cribrosa Cells in Glaucoma. J Clin Med 2020; 10:jcm10010062. [PMID: 33375386 PMCID: PMC7795259 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10010062] [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: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The lamina cribrosa (LC) is a key site of fibrotic damage in glaucomatous optic neuropathy and the precise mechanisms of LC change remain unclear. Elevated Ca2+ is a major driver of fibrosis, and therefore intracellular Ca2+ signaling pathways are relevant glaucoma-related mechanisms that need to be studied. Protein kinase C (PKC), mitogen-activated MAPK kinases (p38 and p42/44-MAPK), and the PI3K/mTOR axis are key Ca2+ signal transducers in fibrosis and we therefore investigated their expression and activity in normal and glaucoma cultured LC cells. We show, using Western immune-blotting, that hyposmotic-induced cellular swelling activates PKCα, p42/p44, and p38 MAPKs, the activity is transient and biphasic as it peaks between 2 min and 10 min. The expression and activity of PKCα, p38 and p42/p44-MAPKs are significantly (p < 0.05) increased in glaucoma LC cells at basal level, and at different time-points after hyposmotic stretch. We also found elevated mRNA expression of mRNA expression of PI3K, IP3R, mTOR, and CaMKII in glaucoma LC cells. This study has identified abnormalities in multiple calcium signaling pathways (PKCα, MAPK, PI3K) in glaucoma LC cells, which might have significant functional and therapeutic implications in optic nerve head (ONH) fibrosis and cupping in glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mustapha Irnaten
- Department Ophthalmology, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, D07 R2WY Dublin, Ireland;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +353-851-334-932
| | - Aisling Duff
- Milton Medical Centre New South Wales, Milton, NSW 2538, Australia;
| | - Abbot Clark
- Department Pharmacology & Neuroscience and the North Texas Eye Research Institute, Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX 76107, USA;
| | - Colm O’Brien
- Department Ophthalmology, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, D07 R2WY Dublin, Ireland;
- School of Medicine and Medical Science, University College Dublin, D04 V1W8 Dublin, Ireland
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Di Gregorio J, Robuffo I, Spalletta S, Giambuzzi G, De Iuliis V, Toniato E, Martinotti S, Conti P, Flati V. The Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition as a Possible Therapeutic Target in Fibrotic Disorders. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:607483. [PMID: 33409282 PMCID: PMC7779530 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.607483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis is a chronic and progressive disorder characterized by excessive deposition of extracellular matrix, which leads to scarring and loss of function of the affected organ or tissue. Indeed, the fibrotic process affects a variety of organs and tissues, with specific molecular background. However, two common hallmarks are shared: the crucial role of the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) and the involvement of the inflammation process, that is essential for initiating the fibrotic degeneration. TGF-β in particular but also other cytokines regulate the most common molecular mechanism at the basis of fibrosis, the Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT). EMT has been extensively studied, but not yet fully explored as a possible therapeutic target for fibrosis. A deeper understanding of the crosstalk between fibrosis and EMT may represent an opportunity for the development of a broadly effective anti-fibrotic therapy. Here we report the evidences of the relationship between EMT and multi-organ fibrosis, and the possible therapeutic approaches that may be developed by exploiting this relationship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacopo Di Gregorio
- Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, United States
| | - Iole Robuffo
- Institute of Molecular Genetics, National Research Council, Section of Chieti, Chieti, Italy
| | - Sonia Spalletta
- Department of Clinical Pathology, E. Profili Hospital, Fabriano, Ancona, Italy
| | - Giulia Giambuzzi
- Department of Medical and Oral Sciences and Biotechnologies, University "G. d'Annunzio", Chieti, Italy
| | - Vincenzo De Iuliis
- Department of Medical and Oral Sciences and Biotechnologies, University "G. d'Annunzio", Chieti, Italy
| | - Elena Toniato
- Department of Medical and Oral Sciences and Biotechnologies, University "G. d'Annunzio", Chieti, Italy
| | - Stefano Martinotti
- Department of Medical and Oral Sciences and Biotechnologies, University "G. d'Annunzio", Chieti, Italy
| | - Pio Conti
- Postgraduate Medical School, University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Flati
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
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40
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Study on Network Pharmacological Analysis and Preliminary Validation to Understand the Mechanisms of Plantaginis Semen in Treatment of Gouty Nephropathy. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2020; 2020:8861110. [PMID: 33312224 PMCID: PMC7719544 DOI: 10.1155/2020/8861110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Plantaginis Semen (PS) has been used to promote diuresis and clear away dampness. Recent reports have shown that PS can be used to treat gouty nephropathy (GN). However, the action and mechanism of PS have not been well defined in treating GN. The present study aimed to define the molecular mechanisms of PS as a potential therapeutic approach to treat GN. A combination of network pharmacology and validation experiments in GN is used to understand the potential mechanism. Information on pharmaceutically active compounds in PS and gene information related to GN was obtained from public databases. The compound target network and protein-protein interaction network were constructed to study the mechanism of action of PS in the treatment of GN. The mechanism of action of PS in the treatment of GN was analyzed via Gene Ontology (GO) biological process annotation and Kyoto Gene and Genomics Encyclopedia (KEGG) pathway enrichment. Validation experiments were performed to verify the core targets. The GN rat model was prepared by the method of combining yeast and adenine. Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining was used to observe the morphology of renal tissue in rats. ELISA was applied to detect TGF-β1, TNF-α, and IL-1β levels in renal tissue. The expressions of TGF-β1, TNF-α, and IL-1β were determined using immunohistochemistry. Through the results of network pharmacology, we obtained 9 active components, 118 predicted targets, and 149 GN targets from the public database. Based on the protein-protein interaction (PPI), 26 hub genes for interaction with PS treating for GN were screened, including MMP9, TNF, IL1β, and IL6. The enrichment analysis results showed that the treatment of GN with PS was mainly involved in the TGF-β1 signaling pathway, MAPK signaling pathway, TNF signaling pathway, NF-κB signaling pathway, and PI3K Akt signaling pathway. Validation experiment results showed that PS could reduce the content of urinary protein and UA and deregulate the expression of TGF-β1, TNF-α, and IL-1β in the treatment of GN. The molecular mechanism of PS in the treatment of GN indicated the synergistic features of multicomponent, multitarget, and multipathway of traditional Chinese medicine, which provided an essential scientific basis for further elucidating the mechanism of PS in the treatment of GN.
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Gao Y, Yuan D, Gai L, Wu X, Shi Y, He Y, Liu C, Zhang C, Zhou G, Yuan C. Saponins from Panax japonicus ameliorate age-related renal fibrosis by inhibition of inflammation mediated by NF-κB and TGF-β1/Smad signaling and suppression of oxidative stress via activation of Nrf2-ARE signaling. J Ginseng Res 2020; 45:408-419. [PMID: 34025134 PMCID: PMC8134850 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgr.2020.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 07/22/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The decreased renal function is known to be associated with biological aging, of which the main pathological features are chronic inflammation and renal interstitial fibrosis. In previous studies, we reported that total saponins from Panax japonicus (SPJs) can availably protect acute myocardial ischemia. We proposed that SPJs might have similar protective effects for aging-associated renal interstitial fibrosis. Thus, in the present study, we evaluated the overall effect of SPJs on renal fibrosis. Methods Sprague-Dawley (SD) aging rats were given SPJs by gavage beginning from 18 months old, at 10 mg/kg/d and 60 mg/kg/d, up to 24 months old. After the experiment, changes in morphology, function and fibrosis of their kidneys were detected. The levels of serum uric acid (UA), β2-microglobulin (β2-MG) and cystatin C (Cys C) were assayed with ELISA kits. The levels of extracellular matrix (ECM), matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs), inflammatory factors and changes of oxidative stress parameters were examined. Results After SPJs treatment, SD rats showed significantly histopathological changes in kidneys accompanied by decreased renal fibrosis and increased renal function; As compared with those in 3-month group, the levels of serum UA, Cys C and β2-MG in 24-month group were significantly increased (p < 0.05). Compared with those in the 24-month group, the levels of serum UA, Cys C and β2-MG in the SPJ-H group were significantly decreased. While ECM was reduced and the levels of MMP-2 and MMP-9 were increased, the levels of TIMP-1, TIMP-2 and transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1)/Smad signaling were decreased; the expression level of phosphorylated nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) was down-regulated with reduced inflammatory factors; meanwhile, the expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2-antioxidant response element (Nrf2-ARE) signaling was aggrandized. Conclusion These results suggest that SPJs treatment can improve age-associated renal fibrosis by inhibiting TGF-β1/Smad, NFκB signaling pathways and activating Nrf2-ARE signaling pathways and that SPJs can be a potentially valuable anti-renal fibrosis drug.
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Key Words
- ARE, antioxidant response element
- Aging
- COX2, cyclooxygenase-2
- Cys C, cystatin C
- ECM, extracellular matrix
- HO-1, human heme oxygenase 1
- IL-6, interleukin-6
- IκB, inhibitor of NF-κB
- LPO, lipid peroxides
- MCP-1, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1
- MMPs, matrix metalloproteinases
- NF-κB, nuclear factor kappa-B
- NQO1, recombinant NADH dehydrogenase quinone 1
- Nrf2, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2
- Nrf2-ARE signaling pathways
- PJ, Panax japonicas
- Renal fibrosis
- SD, Sprague-Dawley
- SPJ-H, high-dose of SPJ
- SPJ-L, low-dose of SPJ
- SPJs, saponins from panax japonicus
- TGF-β1, tumor growth factor-β1
- TGF-β1/Smad
- TIMPs, tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases
- TNF-α, tumor necrosis factor-α
- Total saponins of panax japonicus
- UA, uric acid
- α-SMA, α-smooth muscle aorta
- β2-MG, β2-microglobulin
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Gao
- College of Medical Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
| | - Ding Yuan
- College of Medical Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
| | - Liyue Gai
- College of Medical Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
| | - Xuelian Wu
- College of Medical Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
| | - Yue Shi
- College of Medical Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
| | - Yumin He
- College of Medical Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
| | - Chaoqi Liu
- College of Medical Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
| | - Changcheng Zhang
- College of Medical Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
| | - Gang Zhou
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
| | - Chengfu Yuan
- College of Medical Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China.,Third-Grade Pharmacological Laboratory on Chinese Medicine Approved by State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
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Xing L, Chang X, Shen L, Zhang C, Fan Y, Cho C, Zhang Z, Jiang H. Progress in drug delivery system for fibrosis therapy. Asian J Pharm Sci 2020; 16:47-61. [PMID: 33613729 PMCID: PMC7878446 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajps.2020.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2019] [Revised: 03/22/2020] [Accepted: 06/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis is a necessary process in the progression of chronic disease to cirrhosis or even cancer, which is a serious disease threatening human health. Recent studies have shown that the early treatment of fibrosis is turning point and particularly important. Therefore, how to reverse fibrosis has become the focus and research hotspot in recent years. So far, the considerable progress has been made in the development of effective anti-fibrosis drugs and targeted drug delivery. Moreover, the existing research results will lay the foundation for more breakthrough delivery systems to achieve better anti-fibrosis effects. Herein, this review summaries anti-fibrosis delivery systems focused on three major organ fibrotic diseases such as liver, pulmonary, and renal fibrosis accompanied by the elaboration of relevant pathological mechanisms, which will provide inspiration and guidance for the design of fibrosis drugs and therapeutic systems in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Xing
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Pharmaceutics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Xin Chang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Pharmaceutics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Lijun Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Pharmaceutics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Chenglu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Pharmaceutics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yatong Fan
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Pharmaceutics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Chongsu Cho
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology and Research Institute of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
- Corresponding authors.
| | - Zhiqi Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Fourth People's Hospital Affiliated to Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200081 China
- Corresponding authors.
| | - Hulin Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Pharmaceutics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Corresponding authors.
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Micale L, Morlino S, Biagini T, Carbone A, Fusco C, Ritelli M, Giambra V, Zoppi N, Nardella G, Notarangelo A, Schirizzi A, Mazzoccoli G, Grammatico P, Wade EM, Mazza T, Colombi M, Castori M. Insights into the molecular pathogenesis of cardiospondylocarpofacial syndrome: MAP3K7 c.737-7A > G variant alters the TGFβ-mediated α-SMA cytoskeleton assembly and autophagy. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2020; 1866:165742. [PMID: 32105826 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2020.165742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2020] [Revised: 02/20/2020] [Accepted: 02/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Transforming growth factor beta-activated kinase 1 (TAK1) is a highly conserved kinase protein encoded by MAP3K7, and activated by multiple extracellular stimuli, growth factors and cytokines. Heterozygous variants in MAP3K7 cause the cardiospondylocarpofacial syndrome (CSCFS) which is characterized by short stature, dysmorphic facial features, cardiac septal defects with valve dysplasia, and skeletal anomalies. CSCFS has been described in seven patients to date and its molecular pathogenesis is only partially understood. Here, the functional effects of the MAP3K7 c.737-7A > G variant, previously identified in a girl with CSCFS and additional soft connective tissue features, were explored. This splice variant generates an in-frame insertion of 2 amino acid residues in the kinase domain of TAK1. Computational analysis revealed that this in-frame insertion alters protein dynamics in the kinase activation loop responsible for TAK1 autophosphorylation after binding with its interactor TAB1. Co-immunoprecipitation studies demonstrate that the ectopic expression of TAK1-mutated protein impairs its ability to physically bind TAB1. In patient's fibroblasts, MAP3K7 c.737-7A > G variant results in reduced TAK1 autophosphorylation and dysregulation of the downstream TAK1-dependent signaling pathway. TAK1 loss-of-function is associated with an impaired TGFβ-mediated α-SMA cytoskeleton assembly and cell migration, and defective autophagy process. These findings contribute to our understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of CSCFS and might offer the rationale for the design of novel therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Micale
- Division of Medical Genetics, Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, San Giovanni Rotondo, Foggia, Italy.
| | - Silvia Morlino
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, San Camillo-Forlanini Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Tommaso Biagini
- Unit of Bioinformatics, Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, San Giovanni Rotondo, Foggia, Italy
| | - Annalucia Carbone
- Division of Internal Medicine and Unit of Chronobiology, Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, San Giovanni Rotondo, Foggia, Italy
| | - Carmela Fusco
- Division of Medical Genetics, Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, San Giovanni Rotondo, Foggia, Italy
| | - Marco Ritelli
- Division of Biology and Genetics, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Giambra
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology, Regenerative Medicine and Innovative Therapies (ISBReMIT), Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, San Giovanni Rotondo, Foggia, Italy
| | - Nicoletta Zoppi
- Division of Biology and Genetics, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Grazia Nardella
- Division of Medical Genetics, Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, San Giovanni Rotondo, Foggia, Italy; Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Angelantonio Notarangelo
- Division of Medical Genetics, Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, San Giovanni Rotondo, Foggia, Italy
| | - Annalisa Schirizzi
- Division of Medical Genetics, Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, San Giovanni Rotondo, Foggia, Italy; Dipartimento di Biologia, Università degli Studi di Bari, "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - Gianluigi Mazzoccoli
- Division of Internal Medicine and Unit of Chronobiology, Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, San Giovanni Rotondo, Foggia, Italy
| | - Paola Grammatico
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, San Camillo-Forlanini Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Emma M Wade
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Dunedin School of Medicine, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Tommaso Mazza
- Unit of Bioinformatics, Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, San Giovanni Rotondo, Foggia, Italy
| | - Marina Colombi
- Division of Biology and Genetics, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Marco Castori
- Division of Medical Genetics, Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, San Giovanni Rotondo, Foggia, Italy
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Ahrabi B, Bahrami M, Moghadasali R, Zamanian-Azodi M, Khoramgah MS, Tabatabaei Mirakabad FS, Darabi S, Abbaszadeh HA. The Effect of Low-Power Laser Therapy on the TGF/β Signaling Pathway in Chronic Kidney Disease: A Review. J Lasers Med Sci 2020; 11:220-225. [PMID: 32273966 DOI: 10.34172/jlms.2020.36] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Objective: The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of low-power lasers on kidney disease by investigating several studies. Methods: A number of articles from 1998 to 2019 were chosen from the sources of PubMed, Scopus, and only the articles studying the effect of low-power lasers on kidney disease were investigated. Results: After reviewing the literature, 21 articles examining only the effects of low-power lasers on kidney disease were found. The results of these studies showed that the parameter of the lowpower laser would result in different outcomes. So, a low-power laser with various parameters can be effective in the treatment of kidney diseases such as acute kidney disease, diabetes, glomerulonephritis, nephrectomy, metabolic syndrome, and kidney fibrosis. Most studies have shown that low-power lasers can affect TGFβ1 signaling which is the most important signaling in the treatment of renal fibrosis. Conclusion: Lasers can be effective in reducing or enhancing inflammatory responses, reducing fibrosis factors, and decreasing reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in kidney disease and glomerular cell proliferation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Behnaz Ahrabi
- Laser Application in Medical Sciences Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Bahrami
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, school of medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Reza Moghadasali
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mona Zamanian-Azodi
- Proteomics Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Sadat Khoramgah
- Laser Application in Medical Sciences Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Shahram Darabi
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Qazvin University of Medical Science, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Hojjat Allah Abbaszadeh
- Laser Application in Medical Sciences Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Bhatia D, Choi ME. Autophagy in kidney disease: Advances and therapeutic potential. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2020; 172:107-133. [PMID: 32620239 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2020.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Autophagy is a highly conserved intracellular catabolic process for the degradation of cytoplasmic components that has recently gained increasing attention for its importance in kidney diseases. It is indispensable for the maintenance of kidney homeostasis both in physiological and pathological conditions. Investigations utilizing various kidney cell-specific conditional autophagy-related gene knockouts have facilitated the advancement in understanding of the role of autophagy in the kidney. Recent findings are raising the possibility that defective autophagy exerts a critical role in different pathological conditions of the kidney. An emerging body of evidence reveals that autophagy exhibits cytoprotective functions in both glomerular and tubular compartments of the kidney, suggesting the upregulation of autophagy as an attractive therapeutic strategy. However, there is also accumulating evidence that autophagy could be deleterious, which presents a formidable challenge in developing therapeutic strategies targeting autophagy. Here, we review the recent advances in research on the role of autophagy during different pathological conditions, including acute kidney injury (AKI), focusing on sepsis, ischemia-reperfusion injury, cisplatin, and heavy metal-induced AKI. We also discuss the role of autophagy in chronic kidney disease (CKD) focusing on the pathogenesis of tubulointerstitial fibrosis, podocytopathies including focal segmental glomerulosclerosis, diabetic nephropathy, IgA nephropathy, membranous nephropathy, HIV-associated nephropathy, and polycystic kidney disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Divya Bhatia
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Joan and Sanford I. Weill Department of Medicine, NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Mary E Choi
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Joan and Sanford I. Weill Department of Medicine, NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States.
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46
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Epigallocatechin-3-gallate prevents TGF-β1-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition and fibrotic changes of renal cells via GSK-3β/β-catenin/Snail1 and Nrf2 pathways. J Nutr Biochem 2020; 76:108266. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2019.108266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2019] [Revised: 08/28/2019] [Accepted: 11/03/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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47
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Kolpakov MA, Sikder K, Sarkar A, Chaki S, Shukla SK, Guo X, Qi Z, Barbery C, Sabri A, Rafiq K. Inflammatory Serine Proteases Play a Critical Role in the Early Pathogenesis of Diabetic Cardiomyopathy. Cell Physiol Biochem 2019; 53:982-998. [PMID: 31829530 PMCID: PMC6956403 DOI: 10.33594/000000190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background/Aims: Diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) is characterized by structural and functional alterations that can lead to heart failure. Several mechanisms are known to be involved in the pathogenesis of DCM, however, the molecular mechanism that links inflammation to DCM is incompletely understood. To learn about this mechanism, we investigated the role of inflammatory serine proteases (ISPs) during the development of DCM. Methods: Eight weeks old mice with deletion of dipeptidyl peptidase I (DPPI), an enzyme involved in the maturation of major ISPs, and wild type (WT) mice controls were injected with streptozotocin (50 mg/kg for 5 days intraperitoneally) and studied after 4, 8, 16, and 20 week after induction of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). Induction of diabetes was followed by echocardiographic measurements, glycemic and hemoglobulin A1c profiling, immunoblot, qPCR, enzyme activity assays, and immunohistochemistry (IHC) analysis of DPPI, ISPs, and inflammatory markers. Fibrosis was determined from left ventricular heart by Serius Red staining and qPCR. Apoptosis was determined by TUNEL assay and immunoblot analysis. Results: In the diabetic WT mice, DPPI expression increased along with ISP activation, and DPPI accumulated abundantly in the left ventricle mainly from infiltrating neutrophils. In diabetic DPPI-knockout (DPPI-KO) mice, significantly decreased activation of ISPs, myocyte apoptosis, fibrosis, and cardiac function was improved compared to diabetic WT mice. In addition, DPPI-KO mice showed a decrease in overall inflammatory status mediated by diabetes induction which was manifested by decreased production of pro-inflammatory cytokines like TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6. Conclusion: This study elucidates a novel role of ISPs in potentiating the immunological responses that lead to the pathogenesis of DCM in T1DM. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to report that DPPI expression and activation promotes the inflammation that enhances myocyte apoptosis and contributes to the adverse cardiac remodeling that subsequently leads to DCM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikhail A Kolpakov
- Cardiovascular Research Center and Department of Physiology, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Kunal Sikder
- Center for Translational Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Amrita Sarkar
- Department of Hematology, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Shaswati Chaki
- Center for Translational Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Sanket K Shukla
- Center for Translational Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Xinji Guo
- Cardiovascular Research Center and Department of Physiology, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Zhao Qi
- Cardiovascular Research Center and Department of Physiology, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Carlos Barbery
- Center for Translational Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Abdelkarim Sabri
- Cardiovascular Research Center and Department of Physiology, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Khadija Rafiq
- Center for Translational Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA,
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Bao C, Yang Z, Cai Q, Li Q, Li H, Shu B. Incremental load training improves renal fibrosis by regulating the TGF‑β1/TAK1/MKK3/p38MAPK signaling pathway and inducing the activation of autophagy in aged mice. Int J Mol Med 2019; 44:1677-1686. [PMID: 31545406 PMCID: PMC6777683 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2019.4344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2019] [Accepted: 07/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent studies have confirmed that kidney tissue fibrosis is closely linked to the natural aging of organs. One of its major characteristics is the reduction of autophagic activity. However, to date, few studies have assessed whether incremental load training is able to improve the occurrence of renal fibrosis caused by natural aging and the underlying mechanisms. In the present study involving male C57/BL mice, an elderly exercise group (OY group) was subjected to progressive load‑increasing rotary‑bar training (5 days/week, lasting for 6 weeks), with an elderly control group (OC group) and a young control group (YC group) used as controls. Renal fibrosis and autophagy‑associated indicators were assessed by Masson's staining, reverse transcription‑quantitative PCR analysis, western blotting, immunofluorescence and transmission electron microscopy. The results suggested that collagen deposition in the basal part of the renal tubular epithelium and glomeruli in the OY group was significantly lower than that in the OC group. In the OC group, the protein expression levels of E‑cadherin, Beclin 1 and light chain 3 were significantly decreased, and increases in α‑smooth muscle actin‑positive signals were observed in the glomerular matrix and renal capsule wall. Furthermore, the expression of transforming growth factor (TGF)‑β1 and its downstream signaling molecules TGF‑β‑activated kinase 1 (TAK1), mitogen‑activated protein kinase (MAPK) kinase (MKK3) and p38MAPK were downregulated following training. The present study confirmed that incremental load training may improve renal fibrosis in aged mice by regulating the TGF‑β1/TAK1/MMK3/p38MAPK signaling pathway and inducing the activation of autophagy to reduce the synthesis of extracellular matrix and delay the epithelial‑mesenchymal transition. The present study provides a novel experimental basis for the intervention of incremental load training to prevent senile renal fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuncha Bao
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University Town Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 401331, P.R. China
| | - Zhong Yang
- Department of Clinical Blood Teaching and Research, Army Medical University, Chongqing 400038, P.R. China
| | - Qiyan Cai
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Army Medical University, Chongqing 400038, P.R. China
| | - Qian Li
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University Town Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 401331, P.R. China
| | - Hongli Li
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Army Medical University, Chongqing 400038, P.R. China
| | - Bin Shu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University Town Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 401331, P.R. China
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Gao Y, Sun Y, Yang H, Qiu P, Cong Z, Zou Y, Song L, Guo J, Anastassiades TP. A Low Molecular Weight Hyaluronic Acid Derivative Accelerates Excisional Wound Healing by Modulating Pro-Inflammation, Promoting Epithelialization and Neovascularization, and Remodeling Collagen. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20153722. [PMID: 31366051 PMCID: PMC6695899 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20153722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2019] [Revised: 07/24/2019] [Accepted: 07/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent knowledge of the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying cutaneous wound healing has advanced the development of medical products. However, patients still suffer from the failure of current treatments, due to the complexity of healing process and thus novel therapeutic approaches are urgently needed. Previously, our laboratories produced a range of low molecular weight hyaluronic acid (LMW-HA) fragments, where a proportion of the glucosamine moieties were chemically N-acyl substituted. Specifically, N-butyrylation results in anti-inflammatory properties in a macrophage system, and we demonstrate the importance of N-acyl substituents in modulating the inflammatory response of LMW-HA. We have set up an inter-institutional collaborative program to examine the biomedical applications of the N-butyrylated LMW-HA (BHA). In this study, the potentials of BHA for dermal healing are assessed in vitro and in vivo. Consequently, BHA significantly promotes dermal healing relative to a commercial wound care product. By contrast, the “parent” partially de-acetylated LMW-HA (DHA) and the re-acetylated DHA (AHA) significantly delays wound closure, demonstrating the specificity of this N-acylation of LMW-HA in wound healing. Mechanistic studies reveal that the BHA-mediated therapeutic effect is achieved by targeting three phases of wound healing (i.e., inflammation, proliferation and maturation), demonstrating the significant potential of BHA for clinical translation in cutaneous wound healing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yin Gao
- Key Laboratory for Molecular Enzymology and Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China
| | - Yao Sun
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Hao Yang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Pengyu Qiu
- Key Laboratory for Molecular Enzymology and Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China
| | - Zhongcheng Cong
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Yifang Zou
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Liu Song
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Jianfeng Guo
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China.
| | - Tassos P Anastassiades
- Departments of Medicine (Div. of Rheumatology), and of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6, Canada
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Lee J, An JN, Hwang JH, Lee H, Lee JP, Kim SG. p38 MAPK activity is associated with the histological degree of interstitial fibrosis in IgA nephropathy patients. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0213981. [PMID: 30897126 PMCID: PMC6428396 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0213981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2018] [Accepted: 03/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Activation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) is associated with tissue fibrosis, and inhibition of p38 MAPK can attenuate the progression of fibrosis. We aimed to investigate whether p38 MAPK activity in kidney tissue confirmed by immunohistochemical staining is associated with renal tubulointerstitial fibrosis in chronic kidney disease patients with IgA nephropathy. We collected kidney biopsy specimens from 341 IgA nephropathy patients and 15 control patients to identify the clinical and histopathological factors associated with kidney tubulointerstitial fibrosis and to find an association between kidney phosphorylated p38 immunoactivity and pathological grading. In addition, we aimed to investigate whether the anti-fibrotic effect of p38 MAPK inhibition can be identified by assessing the immunostaining intensity of phosphorylated p38 in kidney tissue. A renal tubulointerstitial fibrosis model was introduced using 7-week-old C57BL/6 mice subjected to unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO). The p38 MAPK inhibitor SB-731445 was injected intraperitoneally every day for 7 days, and changes in renal fibrosis-associated markers were investigated. Assessment of kidney biopsy specimens from IgA nephropathy patients revealed that the degree of interstitial fibrosis was significantly associated with the tissue immunoactivity of phosphorylated p38. High-grade interstitial fibrosis was associated with a low glomerular filtration rate, high proteinuria, and high-grade histopathological changes, including tubular atrophy, interstitial inflammation, and glomerular sclerosis. In a mouse UUO model, renal protein expression of COL1 and phosphorylated p38 were significantly increased, and the protein expression of COL1 and phosphorylated p38 decreased in mice administered 10 mg/kg/day p38 MAPK inhibitor. We found that kidney interstitial fibrosis is associated with increased immunoactivity of phosphorylated p38 in a UUO mouse model and in human IgA nephropathy patients and that the anti-fibrotic effect of p38 MAPK inhibition can be confirmed using immunohistochemical staining for phosphorylated p38 in kidney tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeonghwan Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hallym University Sacred Heart Hospital, Anyang, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
| | - Jung Nam An
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul Metropolitan Government Seoul National University Boramae Medical Center, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jin Ho Hwang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chung-Ang University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hajeong Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jung Pyo Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul Metropolitan Government Seoul National University Boramae Medical Center, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sung Gyun Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hallym University Sacred Heart Hospital, Anyang, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
- * E-mail:
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