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Ban J, Chang S, Ma P, Wang X, Liu F. lncRNA Profiling of Exosomes and Its Communication Role in Regulating Silica-Stimulated Macrophage Apoptosis and Fibroblast Activation. Biomolecules 2024; 14:146. [PMID: 38397383 PMCID: PMC10886698 DOI: 10.3390/biom14020146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Long-term silica particle exposure leads to interstitial pulmonary inflammation and fibrosis, called silicosis. Silica-activated macrophages secrete a wide range of cytokines resulting in persistent inflammation. In addition, silica-stimulated activation of fibroblast is another checkpoint in the progression of silicosis. The pathogenesis after silica exposure is complex, involving intercellular communication and intracellular signaling pathway transduction, which was ignored previously. Exosomes are noteworthy because of their crucial role in intercellular communication by delivering bioactive substances, such as lncRNA. However, the expression profile of exosomal lncRNA in silicosis has not been reported yet. In this study, exosomes were isolated from the peripheral serum of silicosis patients or healthy donors. The exosomal lncRNAs were profiled using high-throughput sequencing technology. Target genes were predicted, and functional annotation was performed using differentially expressed lncRNAs. Eight aberrant expressed exosomal lncRNAs were considered to play a key role in the process of silicosis according to the OPLS-DA. Furthermore, the increased expression of lncRNA MSTRG.43085.16 was testified in vitro. Its target gene PARP1 was critical in regulating apoptosis based on bioinformatics analysis. In addition, the effects of exosomes on macrophage apoptosis and fibroblast activation were checked based on a co-cultured system. Our findings suggested that upregulation of lncRNA MSTRG.43085.16 could regulate silica-induced macrophage apoptosis through elevating PARP1 expression, and promote fibroblast activation, implying that the exosomal lncRNA MSTRG.43085.16 might have potential as a biomarker for the early diagnosis of silicosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaqi Ban
- Division of Pneumoconiosis, School of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China; (J.B.); (S.C.); (P.M.)
- The Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, School of Public Health, Ministry of Education, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Shuai Chang
- Division of Pneumoconiosis, School of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China; (J.B.); (S.C.); (P.M.)
| | - Pengwei Ma
- Division of Pneumoconiosis, School of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China; (J.B.); (S.C.); (P.M.)
| | - Xin Wang
- Tianjin Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Tianjin 300011, China;
| | - Fangwei Liu
- Division of Pneumoconiosis, School of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China; (J.B.); (S.C.); (P.M.)
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Stress and Chronic Disease Control and Prevention, Ministry of Education, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
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Li J, Deng B, Zhang J, Zhang X, Cheng L, Li G, Su P, Miao X, Yang W, Xie J, Wang R. The Peptide DH α-(4-pentenyl)-ANPQIR-NH 2 Exhibits Antifibrotic Activity in Multiple Pulmonary Fibrosis Models Induced by Particulate and Soluble Chemical Fibrogenic Agents. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2024; 388:701-714. [PMID: 38129127 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.123.001849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) are a group of restrictive lung diseases characterized by interstitial inflammation and pulmonary fibrosis. The incidence of ILDs associated with exposure to multiple hazards such as inhaled particles, fibers, and ingested soluble chemicals is increasing yearly, and there are no ideal drugs currently available. Our previous research showed that the novel and low-toxicity peptide DHα-(4-pentenyl)-ANPQIR-NH2 (DR3penA) had a strong antifibrotic effect on a bleomycin-induced murine model. Based on the druggability of DR3penA, we sought to investigate its effects on respirable particulate silicon dioxide (SiO2)- and soluble chemical paraquat (PQ)-induced pulmonary fibrosis in this study by using western blot, quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), immunofluorescence, H&E and Masson staining, immunohistochemistry, and serum biochemical assays. The results showed that DR3penA alleviated the extent of fibrosis by inhibiting the expression of fibronectin and collagen I and suppressed oxidative stress and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in vitro and in vivo. Further study revealed that DR3penA may mitigate pulmonary fibrosis by negatively regulating the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/AKT) pathway and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway. Unexpectedly, through the conversion of drug bioavailability under different routes of administration, DR3penA exerted antifibrotic effects equivalent to those of the positive control drug pirfenidone (PFD) at lower doses. In summary, DR3penA may be a promising lead compound for various fibrotic ILDs. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Our study verified that DHα-(4-pentenyl)-ANPQIR-NH2 (DR3penA) exhibited positive antifibrotic activity in pulmonary fibrosis induced by silicon dioxide (SiO2) particles and soluble chemical paraquat (PQ) and demonstrated a low-dose advantage compared to the small-molecule drug pirfenidone (PFD). The peptide DR3penA can be further developed for the treatment of multiple fibrotic lung diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jieru Li
- Institute of Materia Medica and Research Unit of Peptide Science, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China (J.L., R.W.); Department of General Surgery, The Second Hospital and Clinical Medical School (J.L.) and Key Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Research Unit of Peptide Science, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 2019RU066 (B.D., J.Z., X.Z., P.S., X.M., W.Y., J.X., R.W.), Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China; and School of Biomedical Engineering (L.C.) and School of Pharmaceutical Sciences (G.L.), Shenzhen University Health Science Centre, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Bochuan Deng
- Institute of Materia Medica and Research Unit of Peptide Science, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China (J.L., R.W.); Department of General Surgery, The Second Hospital and Clinical Medical School (J.L.) and Key Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Research Unit of Peptide Science, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 2019RU066 (B.D., J.Z., X.Z., P.S., X.M., W.Y., J.X., R.W.), Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China; and School of Biomedical Engineering (L.C.) and School of Pharmaceutical Sciences (G.L.), Shenzhen University Health Science Centre, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jiao Zhang
- Institute of Materia Medica and Research Unit of Peptide Science, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China (J.L., R.W.); Department of General Surgery, The Second Hospital and Clinical Medical School (J.L.) and Key Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Research Unit of Peptide Science, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 2019RU066 (B.D., J.Z., X.Z., P.S., X.M., W.Y., J.X., R.W.), Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China; and School of Biomedical Engineering (L.C.) and School of Pharmaceutical Sciences (G.L.), Shenzhen University Health Science Centre, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiang Zhang
- Institute of Materia Medica and Research Unit of Peptide Science, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China (J.L., R.W.); Department of General Surgery, The Second Hospital and Clinical Medical School (J.L.) and Key Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Research Unit of Peptide Science, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 2019RU066 (B.D., J.Z., X.Z., P.S., X.M., W.Y., J.X., R.W.), Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China; and School of Biomedical Engineering (L.C.) and School of Pharmaceutical Sciences (G.L.), Shenzhen University Health Science Centre, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Lu Cheng
- Institute of Materia Medica and Research Unit of Peptide Science, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China (J.L., R.W.); Department of General Surgery, The Second Hospital and Clinical Medical School (J.L.) and Key Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Research Unit of Peptide Science, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 2019RU066 (B.D., J.Z., X.Z., P.S., X.M., W.Y., J.X., R.W.), Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China; and School of Biomedical Engineering (L.C.) and School of Pharmaceutical Sciences (G.L.), Shenzhen University Health Science Centre, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Guofeng Li
- Institute of Materia Medica and Research Unit of Peptide Science, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China (J.L., R.W.); Department of General Surgery, The Second Hospital and Clinical Medical School (J.L.) and Key Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Research Unit of Peptide Science, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 2019RU066 (B.D., J.Z., X.Z., P.S., X.M., W.Y., J.X., R.W.), Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China; and School of Biomedical Engineering (L.C.) and School of Pharmaceutical Sciences (G.L.), Shenzhen University Health Science Centre, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Ping Su
- Institute of Materia Medica and Research Unit of Peptide Science, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China (J.L., R.W.); Department of General Surgery, The Second Hospital and Clinical Medical School (J.L.) and Key Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Research Unit of Peptide Science, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 2019RU066 (B.D., J.Z., X.Z., P.S., X.M., W.Y., J.X., R.W.), Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China; and School of Biomedical Engineering (L.C.) and School of Pharmaceutical Sciences (G.L.), Shenzhen University Health Science Centre, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiaokang Miao
- Institute of Materia Medica and Research Unit of Peptide Science, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China (J.L., R.W.); Department of General Surgery, The Second Hospital and Clinical Medical School (J.L.) and Key Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Research Unit of Peptide Science, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 2019RU066 (B.D., J.Z., X.Z., P.S., X.M., W.Y., J.X., R.W.), Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China; and School of Biomedical Engineering (L.C.) and School of Pharmaceutical Sciences (G.L.), Shenzhen University Health Science Centre, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Wenle Yang
- Institute of Materia Medica and Research Unit of Peptide Science, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China (J.L., R.W.); Department of General Surgery, The Second Hospital and Clinical Medical School (J.L.) and Key Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Research Unit of Peptide Science, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 2019RU066 (B.D., J.Z., X.Z., P.S., X.M., W.Y., J.X., R.W.), Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China; and School of Biomedical Engineering (L.C.) and School of Pharmaceutical Sciences (G.L.), Shenzhen University Health Science Centre, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Junqiu Xie
- Institute of Materia Medica and Research Unit of Peptide Science, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China (J.L., R.W.); Department of General Surgery, The Second Hospital and Clinical Medical School (J.L.) and Key Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Research Unit of Peptide Science, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 2019RU066 (B.D., J.Z., X.Z., P.S., X.M., W.Y., J.X., R.W.), Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China; and School of Biomedical Engineering (L.C.) and School of Pharmaceutical Sciences (G.L.), Shenzhen University Health Science Centre, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Rui Wang
- Institute of Materia Medica and Research Unit of Peptide Science, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China (J.L., R.W.); Department of General Surgery, The Second Hospital and Clinical Medical School (J.L.) and Key Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Research Unit of Peptide Science, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 2019RU066 (B.D., J.Z., X.Z., P.S., X.M., W.Y., J.X., R.W.), Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China; and School of Biomedical Engineering (L.C.) and School of Pharmaceutical Sciences (G.L.), Shenzhen University Health Science Centre, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
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Li YQ, An XL, Jin FY, Bai YF, Li T, Yang XY, Liu SP, Gao XM, Mao N, Xu H, Cai WC, Yang F. ISRIB inhibits the senescence of type II pulmonary epithelial cells to alleviate pulmonary fibrosis induced by silica in mice. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2023; 264:115410. [PMID: 37647802 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.115410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
The role and mechanisms of integrated stress response inhibitor (ISRIB) on silicosis are still not well defined. In the present study, the effects of ISRIB on cellular senescence and pulmonary fibrosis in silicosis were evaluated by RNA sequencing, micro-computed tomography, pulmonary function assessment, histological examination, and Western blot analysis. The results showed that ISRIB significantly reduced the degree of pulmonary fibrosis in mice with silicosis and reduced the expression of type I collagen, fibronectin, α-smooth muscle actin, and transforming growth factor-β1. Both in vivo and in vitro results showed that ISRIB reversed the expression of senescence-related factors β-galactosidase, phosphor-ataxia telangiectasia mutated, phosphor-ataxia telangiectasia and Rad3-related protein, p-p53, p21, p16, and plasminogen activator inhibitor type 1. The aforementioned results were consistent with the sequencing results. These findings implied that ISRIB might reduce the degree of pulmonary fibrosis in mice with silicosis by inhibiting the cellular senescence of alveolar epithelial cell type II.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Qian Li
- School of public and health, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Xu-Liang An
- School of public and health, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Fu-Yu Jin
- School of public and health, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Yi-Fei Bai
- School of public and health, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Tian Li
- School of public and health, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Xin-Yu Yang
- School of public and health, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Shu-Peng Liu
- School of public and health, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Xue-Min Gao
- School of public and health, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Pneumoconiosis,Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, The First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Na Mao
- School of public and health, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Hong Xu
- School of public and health, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China; Health Scicence Center, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Wen-Chen Cai
- School of public and health, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China.
| | - Fang Yang
- School of public and health, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China.
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Liu S, Jin R, Zheng G, Wang Y, Li Q, Jin F, Li Y, Li T, Mao N, Wei Z, Li G, Fan Y, Xu H, Li S, Yang F. Ac-SDKP promotes KIF3A-mediated β-catenin suppression through a ciliary mechanism to constrain silica-induced epithelial-myofibroblast transition. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 166:115411. [PMID: 37651800 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115411] [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: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Kinesin family member 3 A (KIF3A) decrease have been reported in silicotic patients and rats. However, the detailed mechanisms of KIF3A in silicosis remain unknown. In this study, we demonstrated that KIF3A effectively blocked the expression of β-catenin and downstream myocardin-related transcription factor (MRTF)-A/serum response factor (SRF) signaling, thus inhibiting silica-induced epithelial-myofibroblast transition (EMyT). Moreover, KIF3A was identified as a downstream mediator of an antifibrotic tetrapeptide N-acetyl-seryl-aspartyl-lysyl-proline (Ac-SDKP). Knockdown of KIF3A expression reactivated β-catenin/myocardin-related transcription factor (MRTF)-A/serum response factor (SRF) signaling that was attenuated by Ac-SDKP in vitro. Collectively, our findings suggest that Ac-SDKP plays its anti-fibrosis role via KIF3A-mediated β-catenin suppression, at least in part, in both in vivo model of silicosis and in vitro model of EMyT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shupeng Liu
- Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Ruotong Jin
- Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Gaigai Zheng
- Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Yiyun Wang
- Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Qian Li
- Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Fuyu Jin
- Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Yaqian Li
- Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Tian Li
- Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Na Mao
- Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Zhongqiu Wei
- Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Gengxu Li
- Clinical Medical College, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Yuhang Fan
- Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Hong Xu
- Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China; Health Science Center, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Shifeng Li
- National Center for Respiratory Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Diseases, Institute of Respiratory Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Center of Respiratory Medicine, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, 100029 Beijing, China.
| | - Fang Yang
- Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China.
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Zhang J, Hu W, Liu K, Liu J, Zheng Y, Sun X, Mei L, Qian Z, Sun Q, Liu Q, Wu Z, Zhang H, Li Y, Sun D, Ye M. Integrated mRNA and microRNA profiling in lung tissue and blood from human silicosis. J Gene Med 2023:e3518. [PMID: 37403412 DOI: 10.1002/jgm.3518] [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: 01/08/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The overwhelming majority of subjects in the current silicosis mRNA and microRNA (miRNA) expression profile are of human blood, lung cells or a rat model, which puts limits on the understanding of silicosis pathogenesis and therapy. To address the limitations, our investigation was focused on differentially expressed mRNA and miRNA profiles in lung tissue from silicosis patients to explore potential biomarker for early detection of silicosis. METHODS A transcriptome study was conducted based on lung tissue from 15 silicosis patients and eight normal people, and blood samples from 404 silicosis patients and 177 normal people. Three early stage silicosis, five advanced silicosis and four normal lung tissues were randomly selected for microarray processing and analyze. The differentially expressed mRNAs were further used to conduct Gene Ontology and pathway analyses. Series test of cluster was performed to explore possible changes in differentially expressed mRNA and miRNA expression patterns during the process of silicosis. The blood samples and remaining lung tissues were used in a quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR) (RT-qPCR). RESULTS In total, 1417 and 241 differentially expressed mRNAs and miRNAs were identified between lung tissue from silicosis patients and normal people (p < 0.05). However, there was no significant difference in most mRNA or miRNA expression between early stage and advanced stage silicosis lung tissues. RT-qPCR validation results in lung tissues showed expression of four mRNAs (HIF1A, SOCS3, GNAI3 and PTEN) and seven miRNAs was significantly down-regulated compared to those of control group. Nevertheless, PTEN and GNAI3 expression was significantly up-regulated (p < 0.001) in blood samples. The bisulfite sequencing PCR demonstrated that PTEN had significantly decreased the methylation rate in blood samples of silicosis patients. CONCLUSIONS PTEN might be a potential biomarker for silicosis as a result of low methylation in the blood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingbo Zhang
- Clinical Research Center of Occupational Diseases, The Affiliated Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital of Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Weijiang Hu
- National Institute for Occupation Health and Poison Control, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Kai Liu
- National Institute for Occupation Health and Poison Control, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Jie Liu
- Department of Occupational Disease, Suzhou No. 5 People's Hospital, Suzhou, China
| | - Yuxin Zheng
- School of Public Health, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Xin Sun
- National Institute for Occupation Health and Poison Control, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Liangying Mei
- Institute of Occupational Disease Prevention, Hubei Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Wuhan, China
| | - Zushu Qian
- Department of Public Administration, Huangshi Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Huangshi, China
| | - Qiangguo Sun
- Occupation Disease Prevention and Control Center Section, Huangshi Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Huangshi, China
| | - Qiang Liu
- Department of Enviromental Health, Suzhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Suzhou, China
| | - Zhijun Wu
- National Institute for Occupation Health and Poison Control, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Hengdong Zhang
- Institute of Occupational Disease Prevention, Jiangsu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanjing, China
| | - Yanping Li
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Honghe Prefecture Third People's Hospital, Honghe, China
| | - Daoyuan Sun
- Clinical Research Center of Occupational Diseases, The Affiliated Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital of Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Meng Ye
- National Institute for Occupation Health and Poison Control, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
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ATM deficiency aggravates the progression of liver fibrosis induced by carbon tetrachloride in mice. Toxicology 2023; 484:153397. [PMID: 36526012 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2022.153397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Ataxia telangiectasia mutated (ATM) is a pivotal sensor during the DNA damage response that slows cell passage through the cell cycle checkpoints to facilitate DNA repair, and liver fibrosis is an irreversible pathological consequence of the sustained wound-healing process, However, the effects of ATM on the development of liver fibrosis are still not fully understood. Therefore, the aim of the study was to investigate the effects and potential mechanisms of ATM on the progression of liver fibrosis. Wild-type and ATM-deficient were administered with carbon tetrachloride (CCl4, 5 ml/kg, i.p.) for 8 weeks to induce liver fibrosis, and the liver tissues and serum were collected for analysis. KU-55933 (10 μM) was used to investigate the effects of ATM blockage on CCl4-induced hepatocyte injury in vitro. The results showed that ATM deficiency aggravated the increased serum transaminase levels and liver MDA, HYP, and 8-OHdG contents compared with the model group (p < 0.05). Sirius red staining showed that ATM deficiency exacerbated liver collagen deposition in vivo, which was associated with the activation of TGF-β1/Smad2 signaling. Furthermore, blocking ATM with KU-55933 exacerbated the production of ROS and DNA damage caused by CCl4 exposure in HepG2 cells, and KU-55933 treatment also reversed the downregulated expression of CDK1 and CDK2 after CCl4 exposure in vitro. Moreover, the loss of ATM perturbed the regulation of the hepatic cell ChK2-CDC25A/C-CDK1/2 cascade and apoptosis in vivo, which was accompanied by increased Ki67-positive and TUNEL-positive cells after chronic CCl4 treatment. In conclusion, our results indicated that ATM might be a critical regulator of liver fibrosis progression, and the underlying mechanisms of exacerbated liver fibrosis development in ATM-deficient mice might be associated with the dysregulation of hepatic cell proliferation and apoptosis.
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Liu H, Tian F, Hu Y, Ping S, Zhang L. Liraglutide in Combination with Insulin Has a Superior Therapeutic Effect to Either Alone on Fracture Healing in Diabetic Rats. Diabetes Metab Syndr Obes 2023; 16:1235-1245. [PMID: 37151908 PMCID: PMC10155808 DOI: 10.2147/dmso.s404392] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Fractures in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus are at a high risk of delayed union or non-union. Previous studies have shown a protective effect of liraglutide on bone. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the effects of a combination of liraglutide and insulin on fracture healing in a rat model of diabetes and the mechanisms involved. Materials and Methods Closed femoral mid-shaft fractures were established in male Sprague-Dawley rats with or without diabetes mellitus, and the diabetic rats were administered insulin and/or liraglutide. Six weeks after femoral fracture, the femoral callus was evaluated by immunohistochemistry, histology, and micro-computed tomography. Additionally, the effects of liraglutide on high-glucose-stimulated MC3T3-E1 cells were analyzed by Western blotting. Results Micro-computed tomography and safranin O/fast green staining showed that fracture healing was delayed in the diabetic rats, and this was accompanied by much lower expression of osteogenic markers and greater osteoclast activity. However, treatment with insulin and/or liraglutide prevented these changes. Liraglutide in combination with insulin treatment resulted in lower blood glucose concentrations and significantly higher osteocalcin (OCN) and collagen I (Col I) expression six weeks following fracture. Western blot analysis showed that liraglutide prevented the low expression of the bone morphogenetic protein-2, osterix/SP7, OCN, Col I, and β-catenin in high-glucose-stimulated MC3T3-E1 cells. Conclusion These results demonstrate that insulin and/or liraglutide promotes bone fracture healing in the DF model. The combination was more effective than either single treatment, which may be because of the two drugs' additive effects on the osteogenic ability of osteoblast precursors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Liu
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Orthopedic Syrgery, The Affiliated Hospital, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, People's Republic of China
| | - Faming Tian
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yunpeng Hu
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shaohua Ping
- Department of Orthopedic Syrgery, The Affiliated Hospital, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, People's Republic of China
| | - Liu Zhang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Emergency Management General Hospital, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
- Correspondence: Liu Zhang, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Emergency Management General Hospital, Xibahenanli 29, Chaoyang dis, Beijing, 100028, People’s Republic of China, Tel +86-10-64662308, Email
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8
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Jin F, Li Y, Wang X, Yang X, Li T, Xu H, Wei Z, Liu H. Effect of Sex Differences in Silicotic Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232214203. [PMID: 36430681 PMCID: PMC9697950 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232214203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Mechanisms of silicosis, caused by the inhalation of silica are still unclear, and the effect of sex on silicosis has rarely been reported. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether sex affects the silicotic lesions and the progressive fibrotic responses in silicosis. Our study showed that sex had no significant effect on the area of silicon nodules and the collagen deposition after a one-time bronchial perfusion of silica. Immunohistochemical staining showed that CD68 and the transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) were positive in male and female silicotic mice. In addition, the western blot results showed that the fibrosis-related factors type I collagen (COL I), α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), vimentin, TGF-β1, p-SMAD2/3, inflammatory-related factors interleukin 6 (IL 6), interleukin 1β (IL 1β), and senescence-related factors p16 and p21 were up-regulated in silicotic mice and there was no difference between female or male mice exposed to silica. The expression of TGF-β1, p-SMAD2/3, p16, and p21 were downregulated in the early stage of female silicotic mice, compared to the males. Thus, despite differences in the expression of certain factors, there was no overall difference in the progressive fibrosis between female and male mice in silicosis. These results thus provide a new perspective for studying the pathological development of silicosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Zhongqiu Wei
- Correspondence: (Z.W.); (H.L.); Tel.: +86-0315-8816236 (Z.W.); +86-139-3349-9300 (H.L.)
| | - Heliang Liu
- Correspondence: (Z.W.); (H.L.); Tel.: +86-0315-8816236 (Z.W.); +86-139-3349-9300 (H.L.)
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9
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Wang W, Jia W, Zhang C. The Role of Tβ4-POP-Ac-SDKP Axis in Organ Fibrosis. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:13282. [PMID: 36362069 PMCID: PMC9655242 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232113282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 10/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/30/2022] [Indexed: 09/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis is a pathological process in which parenchymal cells are necrotic and excess extracellular matrix (ECM) is accumulated due to dysregulation of tissue injury repair. Thymosin β4 (Tβ4) is a 43 amino acid multifunctional polypeptide that is involved in wound healing. Prolyl oligopeptidase (POP) is the main enzyme that hydrolyzes Tβ4 to produce its derivative N-acetyl-seryl-aspartyl-lysyl-proline (Ac-SDKP) which is found to play a role in the regulation of fibrosis. Accumulating evidence suggests that the Tβ4-POP-Ac-SDKP axis widely exists in various tissues and organs including the liver, kidney, heart, and lung, and participates in the process of fibrogenesis. Herein, we aim to elucidate the role of Tβ4-POP-Ac-SDKP axis in hepatic fibrosis, renal fibrosis, cardiac fibrosis, and pulmonary fibrosis, as well as the underlying mechanisms. Based on this, we attempted to provide novel therapeutic strategies for the regulation of tissue damage repair and anti-fibrosis therapy. The Tβ4-POP-Ac-SDKP axis exerts protective effects against organ fibrosis. It is promising that appropriate dosing regimens that rely on this axis could serve as a new therapeutic strategy for alleviating organ fibrosis in the early and late stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Wang
- Queen Mary School, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Wenning Jia
- Queen Mary School, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Chunping Zhang
- Department of Cell Biology, College of Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
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10
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Ramarao KDR, Somasundram C, Razali Z, Kunasekaran W, Jin TL, Musa S, Achari VM. Antiproliferative effects of dried Moringa oleifera leaf extract on human Wharton's Jelly mesenchymal stem cells. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0274814. [PMID: 36197921 PMCID: PMC9534417 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0274814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have seen an elevated use in clinical works like regenerative medicine. Its potential therapeutic properties increases when used in tandem with complementary agents like bio-based materials. Therefore, the present study is the first to investigate the cytotoxicity of a highly valued medicinal plant, Moringa oleifera, on human Wharton's Jelly mesenchymal stem cells (hWJMSCs) and its effects on the cells' gene expression when used as a pre-treatment agent in vitro. M. oleifera leaves (MOL) were dried and subjected to UHPLC-QTOF/MS analysis, revealing several major compounds like apigenin, kaempferol, and quercetin in the MOL, with various biological activities like antioxidant and anti-cancer properties. We then treated the hWJMSCs with MOL and noticed a dose-dependant inhibition on the cells' proliferation. RNA-sequencing was performed to explain the possible mechanism of action and revealed genes like PPP1R1C, SULT2B1, CDKN1A, mir-154 and CCNB1, whose expression patterns were closely associated with the negative cell cycle regulation and cell cycle arrest process. This is also evident from gene set enrichment analysis where the GO and KEGG terms for down-regulated pathways were closely related to the cell cycle regulation. The Ingenuity pathway analysis (IPA) software further predicted the significant activation of (p < 0.05, z-score > 2) of the G2/M DNA damage checkpoint regulation pathway. The present study suggests that MOL exhibits an antiproliferative effect on hWJMSCs via cell cycle arrest and apoptotic pathways. We believe that this study provides an important baseline reference for future works involving MOL's potential to accompany MSCs for clinical works. Future works can take advantage of the cell's strong anti-cancer gene expression found in this study, and evaluate our MOL treatment on various cancer cell lines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kivaandra Dayaa Rao Ramarao
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science and The Centre for Research in Biotechnology for Agriculture (CEBAR), University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Chandran Somasundram
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science and The Centre for Research in Biotechnology for Agriculture (CEBAR), University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- * E-mail:
| | - Zuliana Razali
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science and The Centre for Research in Biotechnology for Agriculture (CEBAR), University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | | | - Tan Li Jin
- Cytonex Sdn. Bhd., Menara UOA Bangsar, Bangsar, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Sabri Musa
- Department of Paediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Vijayan Manickam Achari
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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11
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Ma H, Wu X, Li Y, Xia Y. Research Progress in the Molecular Mechanisms, Therapeutic Targets, and Drug Development of Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:963054. [PMID: 35935869 PMCID: PMC9349351 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.963054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a fatal interstitial lung disease. Recent studies have identified the key role of crosstalk between dysregulated epithelial cells, mesenchymal, immune, and endothelial cells in IPF. In addition, genetic mutations and environmental factors (e.g., smoking) have also been associated with the development of IPF. With the recent development of sequencing technology, epigenetics, as an intermediate link between gene expression and environmental impacts, has also been reported to be implicated in pulmonary fibrosis. Although the etiology of IPF is unknown, many novel therapeutic targets and agents have emerged from clinical trials for IPF treatment in the past years, and the successful launch of pirfenidone and nintedanib has demonstrated the promising future of anti-IPF therapy. Therefore, we aimed to gain an in-depth understanding of the underlying molecular mechanisms and pathogenic factors of IPF, which would be helpful for the diagnosis of IPF, the development of anti-fibrotic drugs, and improving the prognosis of patients with IPF. In this study, we summarized the pathogenic mechanism, therapeutic targets and clinical trials from the perspective of multiple cell types, gene mutations, epigenetic and environmental factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongbo Ma
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xuyi Wu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Rehabilitation Medicine in Sichuan Province/Rehabilitation Medicine Research Institute, Chengdu, China
| | - Yi Li
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Rehabilitation Medicine in Sichuan Province/Rehabilitation Medicine Research Institute, Chengdu, China
| | - Yong Xia
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Rehabilitation Medicine in Sichuan Province/Rehabilitation Medicine Research Institute, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Yong Xia,
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12
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Li Y, Jin F, Li T, Yang X, Cai W, Li S, Gao X, Mao N, Liu H, Xu H, Yang F. Minute Cellular Nodules as Early Lesions in Rats with Silica Exposure via Inhalation. Vet Sci 2022; 9:vetsci9060251. [PMID: 35737303 PMCID: PMC9227695 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci9060251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 05/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Mechanisms of silicosis have yet to be clarified, and pathological conditions are inaccurately described in some experimental studies on silicosis. This study was aimed at describing initial lesions in silicosis, as observed in rats with silica exposure via inhalation, and major histopathologic alterations. Male Wistar rats were exposed to silica for 24 weeks. Hematoxylin and eosin staining indicated the presence of “cellular nodule+ macrophage alveolitis” in rats exposed to silica from the 2–16 weeks time points and “fibrotic cellular + cellular nodule” in rats exposed to silica via inhalation for 24 weeks. By immunohistochemistry, the following were noted: a continual increase in the positive expression of CD68 in macrophages in the lungs of rats exposed to silica; hyperplasia in alveolar type II cells (AT2); loss of original phenotypes in fibrotic cellular nodules, macrophages, and AT2 cells; loss of endothelial cells in silicotic nodules; and positive expression of α-smooth muscle actin in macrophages. Typical pathological changes in silicosis were also summarized. Among these changes were macrophage alveolitis, cellular nodules, and fibrotic cellular nodules, including an increase in minute cellular nodules in the early stages and the formation of fibrotic cellular nodules in the late stages.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Hong Xu
- Correspondence: (H.X.); (F.Y.); Tel.: +86-151-33967479 (H.X.); +86-188-32571018 (F.Y.)
| | - Fang Yang
- Correspondence: (H.X.); (F.Y.); Tel.: +86-151-33967479 (H.X.); +86-188-32571018 (F.Y.)
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13
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Thalidomide Alleviates Pulmonary Fibrosis Induced by Silica in Mice by Inhibiting ER Stress and the TLR4-NF-κB Pathway. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23105656. [PMID: 35628464 PMCID: PMC9144898 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23105656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2022] [Revised: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Silicosis is the most prevalent occupational disease in China. It is a form of pulmonary fibrosis caused by the inhalation of silicon particles. As there is no cure for the potentially lethal and progressive condition, the treatment of silicotic fibrosis is an important and difficult problem to address. Thalidomide, a drug with anti-inflammatory and immunoregulatory properties, has been reported to have lung-protective effects. The purpose of this study was to observe the therapeutic effect of thalidomide on silicotic mice and to determine the protective mechanism. By using silicotic mice models and MH-S cells, we found the expression of endoplasmic reticulum stress (ER stress) and Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)-nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) pathway as well as inflammation-related factors were upregulated in the macrophages of silicotic mice. The same indexes were detected in silica-stimulated MH-S cells, and the results were consistent with those in vivo. That is, silica activated ER stress and the TLR4-NF-κB pathway as well as the inflammatory response in vitro. Treating both silicotic mice and silica-stimulated MH-S cells with thalidomide inhibited ER stress and the TLR4-NF-κB pathway as well as the inflammatory response. The present study demonstrates thalidomide as a potential therapeutic agent against silicosis.
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14
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Xue T, Qiu X, Liu H, Gan C, Tan Z, Xie Y, Wang Y, Ye T. Epigenetic regulation in fibrosis progress. Pharmacol Res 2021; 173:105910. [PMID: 34562602 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2021.105910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Fibrosis, a common process of chronic inflammatory diseases, is defined as a repair response disorder when organs undergo continuous damage, ultimately leading to scar formation and functional failure. Around the world, fibrotic diseases cause high mortality, unfortunately, with limited treatment means in clinical practice. With the development and application of deep sequencing technology, comprehensively exploring the epigenetic mechanism in fibrosis has been allowed. Extensive remodeling of epigenetics controlling various cells phenotype and molecular mechanisms involved in fibrogenesis was subsequently verified. In this review, we summarize the regulatory mechanisms of DNA methylation, histone modification, noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) and N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification in organ fibrosis, focusing on heart, liver, lung and kidney. Additionally, we emphasize the diversity of epigenetics in the cellular and molecular mechanisms related to fibrosis. Finally, the potential and prospect of targeted therapy for fibrosis based on epigenetic is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taixiong Xue
- Sichuan University-University of Oxford Huaxi Joint Centre for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Xingyu Qiu
- Sichuan University-University of Oxford Huaxi Joint Centre for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Hongyao Liu
- Sichuan University-University of Oxford Huaxi Joint Centre for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Cailing Gan
- Sichuan University-University of Oxford Huaxi Joint Centre for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Zui Tan
- Sichuan University-University of Oxford Huaxi Joint Centre for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Yuting Xie
- Sichuan University-University of Oxford Huaxi Joint Centre for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Yuxi Wang
- Sichuan University-University of Oxford Huaxi Joint Centre for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China; Targeted Tracer Research and Development Laboratory, Institute of Respiratory Health, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041 Sichuan, China; Precision Medicine Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province & Precision Medicine Research Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041 Sichuan, China.
| | - Tinghong Ye
- Sichuan University-University of Oxford Huaxi Joint Centre for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China.
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15
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Mao N, Yang H, Yin J, Li Y, Jin F, Li T, Yang X, Sun Y, Liu H, Xu H, Yang F. Glycolytic Reprogramming in Silica-Induced Lung Macrophages and Silicosis Reversed by Ac-SDKP Treatment. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms221810063. [PMID: 34576239 PMCID: PMC8465686 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221810063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Revised: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Glycolytic reprogramming is an important metabolic feature in the development of pulmonary fibrosis. However, the specific mechanism of glycolysis in silicosis is still not clear. In this study, silicotic models and silica-induced macrophage were used to elucidate the mechanism of glycolysis induced by silica. Expression levels of the key enzymes in glycolysis and macrophage activation indicators were analyzed by Western blot, qRT-PCR, IHC, and IF analyses, and by using a lactate assay kit. We found that silica promotes the expression of the key glycolysis enzymes HK2, PKM2, LDHA, and macrophage activation factors iNOS, TNF-α, Arg-1, IL-10, and MCP1 in silicotic rats and silica-induced NR8383 macrophages. The enhancement of glycolysis and macrophage activation induced by silica was reduced by Ac-SDKP or siRNA-Ldha treatment. This study suggests that Ac-SDKP treatment can inhibit glycolytic reprogramming in silica-induced lung macrophages and silicosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Mao
- Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China; (N.M.); (H.Y.); (J.Y.); (Y.L.); (F.J.); (H.L.)
| | - Honghao Yang
- Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China; (N.M.); (H.Y.); (J.Y.); (Y.L.); (F.J.); (H.L.)
| | - Jie Yin
- Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China; (N.M.); (H.Y.); (J.Y.); (Y.L.); (F.J.); (H.L.)
| | - Yaqian Li
- Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China; (N.M.); (H.Y.); (J.Y.); (Y.L.); (F.J.); (H.L.)
| | - Fuyu Jin
- Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China; (N.M.); (H.Y.); (J.Y.); (Y.L.); (F.J.); (H.L.)
| | - Tian Li
- Hebei Key Laboratory for Chronic Diseases, Basic Medical College, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China; (T.L.); (X.Y.); (Y.S.)
| | - Xinyu Yang
- Hebei Key Laboratory for Chronic Diseases, Basic Medical College, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China; (T.L.); (X.Y.); (Y.S.)
| | - Ying Sun
- Hebei Key Laboratory for Chronic Diseases, Basic Medical College, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China; (T.L.); (X.Y.); (Y.S.)
| | - Heliang Liu
- Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China; (N.M.); (H.Y.); (J.Y.); (Y.L.); (F.J.); (H.L.)
| | - Hong Xu
- Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China; (N.M.); (H.Y.); (J.Y.); (Y.L.); (F.J.); (H.L.)
- Correspondence: (H.X.); (F.Y.); Tel.: +86-15133967479 (H.X.); +86-18832571018 (F.Y.); Fax: +86-315-8805522 (F.Y.)
| | - Fang Yang
- Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China; (N.M.); (H.Y.); (J.Y.); (Y.L.); (F.J.); (H.L.)
- Correspondence: (H.X.); (F.Y.); Tel.: +86-15133967479 (H.X.); +86-18832571018 (F.Y.); Fax: +86-315-8805522 (F.Y.)
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16
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OC-STAMP Overexpression Drives Lung Alveolar Epithelial Cell Type II Senescence in Silicosis. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2021; 2021:4158495. [PMID: 34426759 PMCID: PMC8380176 DOI: 10.1155/2021/4158495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Cellular senescence has been considered an important driver of many chronic lung diseases. However, the specific mechanism of cellular senescence in silicosis is still unknown. In the present study, silicotic rats and osteoclast stimulatory transmembrane protein (Ocstamp) overexpression of MLE-12 cells were used to explore the mechanism of OC-STAMP in cellular senescence in alveolar epithelial cell type II (AEC2). We found an increasing level of OC-STAMP in AEC2 of silicotic rats. Overexpression of Ocstamp in MLE-12 cells promoted epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, and cellular senescence. Myosin heavy chain 9 (MYH9) was a potential interacting protein of OC-STAMP. Knockdown of Ocstamp or Myh9 inhibited cellular senescence in MLE-12 cells transfected with pcmv6-Ocstamp. Treatment with 4-phenylbutyrate (4-PBA) to inhibit ER stress also attenuated cellular senescence in vitro or in vivo. In conclusion, OC-STAMP promotes cellular senescence in AEC2 in silicosis.
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17
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Jin F, Geng F, Xu D, Li Y, Li T, Yang X, Liu S, Zhang H, Wei Z, Li S, Gao X, Cai W, Mao N, Yi X, Liu H, Sun Y, Yang F, Xu H. Ac-SDKP Attenuates Activation of Lung Macrophages and Bone Osteoclasts in Rats Exposed to Silica by Inhibition of TLR4 and RANKL Signaling Pathways. J Inflamm Res 2021; 14:1647-1660. [PMID: 33948088 PMCID: PMC8088302 DOI: 10.2147/jir.s306883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Silica-induced inflammatory activation is associated with silicosis and various non-respiratory conditions. The present study was designed to examine the anti-inflammatory effects of N-acetyl-seryl-aspartyl-lysyl-proline (Ac-SDKP) on lung macrophages and bone osteoclasts after silica inhalation in rats. Methods Wistar rats and NR8383 and RAW 264.7 cell lines were used in the present study. The receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand (RANKL) and toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) signaling pathways was measured in the lung tissue of rats or NR8383/RAW 264.7 cells exposed to silica. The microarchitecture of the trabecular bone in the tibia and femur was evaluated in silicotic rats. Furthermore, the roles of Ac-SDKP on silicotic rats, silica-treated NR8383/RAW 264.7 cells, and RANKL-induced osteoclast differentiation were studied. Results The data indicated that silica inhalation might activate the RANKL and TLR4 signaling pathways in lung macrophages, thus inducing the lung inflammatory and proteolytic phenotype of macrophages and osteoclasts in lung and bone. Ac-SDKP maintained the lung elastin level by inhibiting lung inflammation and macrophage activation via the RANKL and TLR4 signaling pathways. Ac-SDKP also attenuated the reduction in femoral bone mineral density in silicotic rats by inhibiting osteoclast differentiation via the RANKL signaling pathway. Conclusion Our findings support the hypothesis that inhalation of crystalline silica induces activation of lung macrophages and bone osteoclasts via the RANKL and TLR4 signaling pathways. Ac-SDKP has the potential to stabilize lung homeostasis and bone metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fuyu Jin
- Basic Medical College, Hebei Key Laboratory for Chronic Diseases, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei Province, 063210, People's Republic of China
| | - Fei Geng
- School of Public Health, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei Province, 063210, People's Republic of China
| | - Dingjie Xu
- Traditional Chinese Medicine College, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei Province, 063210, People's Republic of China
| | - Yaqian Li
- Basic Medical College, Hebei Key Laboratory for Chronic Diseases, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei Province, 063210, People's Republic of China
| | - Tian Li
- Basic Medical College, Hebei Key Laboratory for Chronic Diseases, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei Province, 063210, People's Republic of China
| | - Xinyu Yang
- Basic Medical College, Hebei Key Laboratory for Chronic Diseases, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei Province, 063210, People's Republic of China
| | - Shupeng Liu
- Basic Medical College, Hebei Key Laboratory for Chronic Diseases, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei Province, 063210, People's Republic of China
| | - Hui Zhang
- Basic Medical College, Hebei Key Laboratory for Chronic Diseases, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei Province, 063210, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhongqiu Wei
- Basic Medical College, Hebei Key Laboratory for Chronic Diseases, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei Province, 063210, People's Republic of China
| | - Shifeng Li
- School of Public Health, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei Province, 063210, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuemin Gao
- School of Public Health, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei Province, 063210, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenchen Cai
- School of Public Health, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei Province, 063210, People's Republic of China
| | - Na Mao
- School of Public Health, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei Province, 063210, People's Republic of China
| | - Xue Yi
- Key Laboratory of Functional and Clinical Translational Medicine, Xiamen Medical College, Xianmen, Fujian Province, 361023, People's Republic of China
| | - Heliang Liu
- School of Public Health, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei Province, 063210, People's Republic of China
| | - Ying Sun
- Basic Medical College, Hebei Key Laboratory for Chronic Diseases, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei Province, 063210, People's Republic of China
| | - Fang Yang
- School of Public Health, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei Province, 063210, People's Republic of China
| | - Hong Xu
- Basic Medical College, Hebei Key Laboratory for Chronic Diseases, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei Province, 063210, People's Republic of China.,School of Public Health, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei Province, 063210, People's Republic of China
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18
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Cai W, Zhang B, Li T, Jin F, Li Y, Xu H, Yang F. Transcriptomic analysis identifies upregulation of secreted phosphoprotein 1 in silicotic rats. Exp Ther Med 2021; 21:579. [PMID: 33850551 PMCID: PMC8027763 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2021.10011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2020] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Silicosis is caused by exposure to crystalline silica and the molecular mechanism of silicotic fibrosis remains unclear. Therefore, the present study investigated the mRNA profiles of rats exposed to crystalline silica. RNA-sequencing techniques were used to observe differential expression of mRNAs in silicotic rats induced by chronic inhalation of crystalline silica particulates. Prediction of mRNA functions and signaling pathways was conducted using Gene Ontology (GO) and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) databases. Certain differentially expressed mRNAs were verified in lung tissue of silicotic rats by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Secreted phosphoprotein 1 (SPP1) was measured in serum from silicosis patients, lungs of silicotic rats and NR8383 macrophages treated with silica. A total of 1,338 mRNAs were revealed to be differentially expressed in silicotic rat lungs, including 912 upregulated and 426 downregulated mRNAs. In GO analysis of significant changes in mRNAs, the most affected processes were the defense response, extracellular space and chemokine activity in terms of biological process, cellular component and molecular function. In KEGG pathway analysis, dysregulated mRNAs were involved in systemic lupus erythematosus, staphylococcus aureus infection, complement and coagulation cascades, alcoholism and pertussis. qPCR demonstrated that expression of Spp1, Mmp12, Ccl7, Defb5, Fabp4 and Slc26a4 was increased in silicotic rats, while Lpo, Itln1, Lcn2 and Dlk1 expression was decreased. It was also found that SPP1 was increased in serum from silicosis patients, silicotic rats and silica-treated NR8383 macrophages. The expression of mRNAs was altered significantly in silicotic rats, which suggested that certain genes are novel targets for the diagnosis and treatment of silicosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenchen Cai
- School of Public Health, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, P.R. China
| | - Bonan Zhang
- Basic Medicine College, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, P.R. China
| | - Tian Li
- Basic Medicine College, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, P.R. China
| | - Fuyu Jin
- Basic Medicine College, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, P.R. China
| | - Yaqian Li
- Basic Medicine College, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, P.R. China
| | - Hong Xu
- School of Public Health, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, P.R. China
| | - Fang Yang
- School of Public Health, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, P.R. China
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19
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Li G, Chen S, Zhang Y, Xu H, Xu D, Wei Z, Gao X, Cai W, Mao N, Zhang L, Li S, Yang F, Liu H, Li S. Matrix stiffness regulates α-TAT1-mediated acetylation of α-tubulin and promotes silica-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition via DNA damage. J Cell Sci 2021; 134:224091. [PMID: 33310909 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.243394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Silicosis is characterized by silica exposure-induced lung interstitial fibrosis and formation of silicotic nodules, resulting in lung stiffening. The acetylation of microtubules mediated by α-tubulin N-acetyltransferase 1 (α-TAT1) is a posttranslational modification that promotes microtubule stability in response to mechanical stimulation. α-TAT1 and downstream acetylated α-tubulin (Ac-α-Tub) are decreased in silicosis, promoting the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT); however, the underlying mechanisms are unknown. We found that silica, matrix stiffening or their combination triggered Ac-α-Tub downregulation in alveolar epithelial cells, followed by DNA damage and replication stress. α-TAT1 elevated Ac-α-Tub to limit replication stress and the EMT via trafficking of p53-binding protein 1 (53BP1, also known as TP53BP1). The results provide evidence that α-TAT1 and Ac-α-Tub inhibit the EMT and silicosis fibrosis by preventing 53BP1 mislocalization and relieving DNA damage. This study provides insight into how the cell cycle is regulated during the EMT and why the decrease in α-TAT1 and Ac-α-Tub promotes silicosis fibrosis.This article has an associated First Person interview with the first authors of the paper.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gengxu Li
- Basic Medicine College, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China
| | - Si Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tangshan People's Hospital, Tangshan 063210, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Basic Medicine College, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China
| | - Hong Xu
- School of Public Health, Medical Research Center, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China
| | - Dingjie Xu
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China
| | - Zhongqiu Wei
- Basic Medicine College, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China
| | - Xuemin Gao
- School of Public Health, Medical Research Center, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China
| | - Wenchen Cai
- School of Public Health, Medical Research Center, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China
| | - Na Mao
- School of Public Health, Medical Research Center, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China
| | - Lijuan Zhang
- School of Public Health, Medical Research Center, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China
| | - Shumin Li
- Basic Medicine College, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China
| | - Fang Yang
- School of Public Health, Medical Research Center, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China
| | - Heliang Liu
- School of Public Health, Medical Research Center, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China
| | - Shifeng Li
- School of Public Health, Medical Research Center, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China
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20
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Wang J, Qian Y, Gao X, Mao N, Geng Y, Lin G, Zhang G, Li H, Yang F, Xu H. Synthesis and Identification of a Novel Peptide, Ac-SDK (Biotin) Proline, That Can Elicit Anti-Fibrosis Effects in Rats Suffering from Silicosis. DRUG DESIGN DEVELOPMENT AND THERAPY 2020; 14:4315-4326. [PMID: 33116418 PMCID: PMC7585281 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s262716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2020] [Accepted: 09/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Background N-Acetyl-seryl-aspartyl-lysyl-proline (Ac-SDKP) is a short peptide with an anti-silicosis effect. However, the short biological half-life and low plasma concentration of Ac-SDKP hamper discovery of specific targets in organisms and reduce the anti-silicosis effect. A novel peptide, Ac-SDK (biotin) proline, termed “Ac-B”, with anti-fibrotic properties was synthesized. Methods Ac-B was detected quantitatively by high-performance liquid chromatography. Phagocytosis of Ac-B by the alveolar epithelial cell line A549 was investigated by confocal laser scanning microscopy and flow cytometry. To further elucidate the cellular-uptake mechanism of Ac-B, chemical inhibitors of specific uptake pathways were used. After stimulation with transforming growth factor-β1, the effects of Ac-B on expression of the myofibroblast marker vimentin and accumulation of collagen type I in A549 cells were analyzed by Western blotting. Sirius Red staining and immunohistochemical analyses of the effect of Ac-B on expression of α-smooth muscle actin (SMA) in a rat model of silicosis were undertaken. Results Ac-B had good traceability during the uptake, entry, and distribution in cells. Ac-B treatment prevented an increase in α-SMA expression in vivo and in vitro and was superior to that of Ac-SDKP. Caveolae-mediated uptake of Ac-B by A549 cells led to achieving anti-epithelial–mesenchymal transformation (EMT) effects. Conclusion Ac-B had an anti-fibrotic effect and could be a promising agent for the fibrosis observed in silicosis in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Qingpu Branch of Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 201700, People's Republic of China.,Hebei Key Laboratory for Chronic Diseases, Tangshan Key Laboratory for Preclinical and Basic Research on Chronic Diseases, School of Basic Medical Sciences, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, People's Republic of China
| | - Ye Qian
- Hebei Key Laboratory for Chronic Diseases, Tangshan Key Laboratory for Preclinical and Basic Research on Chronic Diseases, School of Basic Medical Sciences, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuemin Gao
- Medical Research Center, International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Geriatric Medicine, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, People's Republic of China
| | - Na Mao
- Medical Research Center, International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Geriatric Medicine, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, People's Republic of China
| | - Yucong Geng
- Department of Pathology, Haigang Hospital of Qinhuangdao, Qinhuangdao, Hebei, 066000, People's Republic of China
| | - Gaojie Lin
- Medical Research Center, International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Geriatric Medicine, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, People's Republic of China
| | - Guibin Zhang
- Hebei Key Laboratory for Chronic Diseases, Tangshan Key Laboratory for Preclinical and Basic Research on Chronic Diseases, School of Basic Medical Sciences, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, People's Republic of China
| | - Han Li
- Medical Research Center, International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Geriatric Medicine, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, People's Republic of China
| | - Fang Yang
- Medical Research Center, International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Geriatric Medicine, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, People's Republic of China
| | - Hong Xu
- Medical Research Center, International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Geriatric Medicine, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, People's Republic of China
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21
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Gao X, Xu D, Li S, Wei Z, Li S, Cai W, Mao N, Jin F, Li Y, Yi X, Liu H, Xu H, Yang F. Pulmonary Silicosis Alters MicroRNA Expression in Rat Lung and miR-411-3p Exerts Anti-fibrotic Effects by Inhibiting MRTF-A/SRF Signaling. MOLECULAR THERAPY-NUCLEIC ACIDS 2020; 20:851-865. [PMID: 32464548 PMCID: PMC7256439 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2020.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2020] [Revised: 04/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
To identify potential therapeutic targets for pulmonary fibrosis induced by silica, we studied the effects of this disease on the expression of microRNAs (miRNAs) in the lung. Rattus norvegicus pulmonary silicosis models were used in conjunction with high-throughput screening of lung specimens to compare the expression of miRNAs in control and pulmonary silicosis tissues. A total of 70 miRNAs were found to be differentially expressed between control and pulmonary silicosis tissues. This included 41 miRNAs that were upregulated and 29 that were downregulated relative to controls. Among them, miR-292-5p, miR-155-3p, miR-1193-3p, miR-411-3p, miR-370-3p, and miR-409a-5p were found to be similarly altered in rat lung and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1-induced cultured fibroblasts. Using miRNA mimics and inhibitors, we found that miR-1193-3p, miR-411-3p, and miR-370-3p exhibited potent anti-fibrotic effects, while miR-292-5p demonstrated pro-fibrotic effects in TGF-β1-stimulated lung fibroblasts. Moreover, we also found that miR-411-3p effectively reduced pulmonary silicosis in the mouse lung by regulating Mrtfa expression, as demonstrated using biochemical and histological assays. In conclusion, our findings indicate that miRNA expression is perturbed in pulmonary silicosis and suggest that therapeutic interventions targeting specific miRNAs might be effective in the treatment of this occupational disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuemin Gao
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063210 Hebei, China
| | - Dingjie Xu
- Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063210 Hebei, China
| | - Shumin Li
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063210 Hebei, China
| | - Zhongqiu Wei
- Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063210 Hebei, China
| | - Shifeng Li
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063210 Hebei, China
| | - Wenchen Cai
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063210 Hebei, China
| | - Na Mao
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063210 Hebei, China
| | - Fuyu Jin
- Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063210 Hebei, China
| | - Yaqian Li
- Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063210 Hebei, China
| | - Xue Yi
- Department of Basic Medicine, Fujian Collaborative Innovation Center for Accurate Medicine of Respiratory Diseases, Xiamen Medical College, Xiamen, 361023 Fujian, China
| | - Heliang Liu
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063210 Hebei, China
| | - Hong Xu
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063210 Hebei, China.
| | - Fang Yang
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063210 Hebei, China.
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22
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Li S, Li Y, Xu H, Wei Z, Yang Y, Jin F, Zhang M, Wang C, Song W, Huo J, Zhao J, Yang X, Yang F. ACE2 Attenuates Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition in MLE-12 Cells Induced by Silica. DRUG DESIGN DEVELOPMENT AND THERAPY 2020; 14:1547-1559. [PMID: 32368013 PMCID: PMC7183338 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s252351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Purpose The role of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) in silicosis remains unknown, although previous studies have suggested that ACE2 may be beneficial. We, therefore, investigated the effect of ACE2 on silicosis, particularly with regard to its role in regulating the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) induced by silica, with the aim to uncover a new potential target for the treatment of pulmonary fibrosis. Materials and Methods We employed wild-type mice treated with diminazene aceturate (DIZE, an ACE2 activator, 15 mg/kg/day for 4 weeks), hACE2-transgenic mice (overexpress the ACE2 gene), and the mouse lung type II epithelial cell line treated with DIZE (10-7 M for 48 h) or angiotensin-(1-7) [Ang-(1-7)] (10-4 M for 48 h), following induced fibrotic responses to determine the protective potential of ACE2. Silicosis models were established by orotracheal instillation of SiO2 (2.5 mg/mouse). Immunostaining was used to determine α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) expression. The activities of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) and ACE2 and the levels of angiotensin II (Ang II) and Ang-(1-7) were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The mRNA expression of ACE and ACE2, and protein expression of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) components and EMT indicators were studied by qRT-PCR and Western blot, respectively. Results DIZE treatment and overexpression of ACE2 markedly inhibited the formation of silica-induced lung fibrosis and increased the level of E-cadherin, with concomitant downregulation of pro-collagen, vimentin, and α-SMA via RAS signaling. Furthermore, DIZE and Ang-(1-7) attenuated the EMT and collagen deposition induced by silica in MLE-12 cells. Moreover, these effects were abrogated by MLN-4760 (a specific ACE2 inhibitor) and A779 (a specific Mas receptor blocker). Conclusion The overexpression of ACE2 and treatment with DIZE can ameliorate EMT in silicotic mice via activation of the ACE2-Ang-(1-7)-Mas receptor axis, and these changes are accompanied by suppression of the ACE-Ang II-AT1 receptor axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shumin Li
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, People's Republic of China.,School of Basic Medical Sciences, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, People's Republic of China
| | - Yaqian Li
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, People's Republic of China.,Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, People's Republic of China
| | - Hong Xu
- Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhongqiu Wei
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi Yang
- Academic Affairs Office, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, People's Republic of China
| | - Fuyu Jin
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, People's Republic of China.,Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, People's Republic of China
| | - Min Zhang
- Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, People's Republic of China
| | - Chen Wang
- Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenxiong Song
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, People's Republic of China
| | - Jingchen Huo
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, People's Republic of China
| | - Jingyuan Zhao
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiuhong Yang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, People's Republic of China
| | - Fang Yang
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, People's Republic of China.,Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, People's Republic of China
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23
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Cai W, Xu H, Zhang B, Gao X, Li S, Wei Z, Li S, Mao N, Jin F, Li Y, Liu H, Yang F. Differential expression of lncRNAs during silicosis and the role of LOC103691771 in myofibroblast differentiation induced by TGF-β1. Biomed Pharmacother 2020; 125:109980. [PMID: 32028236 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2020.109980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2019] [Revised: 01/25/2020] [Accepted: 01/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The role and molecular mechanism of long non-coding RNA (lncRNA)-related pathways in silicosis have not been elucidated clearly. The aims of this study were to evaluate the expression of lncRNAs during silica-induced pulmonary fibrosis and verify the function and molecular mechanism of LOC103691771 in myofibroblast differentiation induced by transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1). METHODS RNA-sequencing was performed to assess differential expression of lncRNAs in control and silicotic rat lungs. Differential expression of lncRNAs was analyzed by Gene Ontology and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes to identify their biological roles. LOC103691771, LOC102549714, LOC102550137, LOC103693125, and LOC103692016 were selected to verify their expression by real-time PCR of silicotic rat lung tissue and lung fibroblasts stimulated by TGF-β1. Specific small interfering RNA and an LOC103691771 overexpression plasmid were used to analyze the molecular mechanism in myofibroblast differentiation induced by TGF-β1. RESULT A total of 306 lncRNAs were expressed differentially in silicotic rat lungs, including 224 upregulated and 82 downregulated lncRNAs. The expression of LOC103691771, LOC102549714 and LOC102550137 was upregulated, while the expression of LOC103693125 and LOC103692016 was downregulated in silicotic rat lungs and TGF-β1-induced fibroblast, which was consistent with the results of RNA-sequencing. Furthermore, LOC103691771 gene silencing attenuated myofibroblast differentiation, whereas LOC103691771 overexpression promoted myofibroblast differentiation via regulation of the TGF-β1-Smad2/3 signaling pathway. CONCLUSION Our findings revealed that differential expression of lncRNAs was related to the development of silicosis, and LOC103691771 played a major role in myofibroblast differentiation induced by TGF-β1, which may serve as a potential therapeutic target for silicosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenchen Cai
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063210 Hebei, China
| | - Hong Xu
- Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063210 Hebei, China
| | - Bonan Zhang
- Basic Medical College, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063210 Hebei, China
| | - Xuemin Gao
- Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063210 Hebei, China
| | - Shumin Li
- Basic Medical College, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063210 Hebei, China
| | - Zhongqiu Wei
- Basic Medical College, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063210 Hebei, China
| | - Shifeng Li
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063210 Hebei, China
| | - Na Mao
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063210 Hebei, China
| | - Fuyu Jin
- Basic Medical College, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063210 Hebei, China
| | - Yaqian Li
- Basic Medical College, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063210 Hebei, China
| | - Heliang Liu
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063210 Hebei, China
| | - Fang Yang
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063210 Hebei, China.
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24
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Gao X, Xu H, Xu D, Li S, Wei Z, Li S, Cai W, Mao N, Jin F, Li Y, Li T, Yi X, Liu H, Yang F. MiR-411-3p alleviates Silica-induced pulmonary fibrosis by regulating Smurf2/TGF-β signaling. Exp Cell Res 2020; 388:111878. [PMID: 32004504 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2020.111878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2019] [Revised: 01/11/2020] [Accepted: 01/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Occupational exposure to silica dust particles was the major cause of pulmonary fibrosis, and many miRNAs have been demonstrated to regulate target mRNAs in silicosis. In the present study, we found that a decreasing level of miR-411-3p in silicosis rats and lung fibroblasts induced by TGF-β1. Enlargement of miR-411-3p could inhibit the cell proliferation and migration in lung fibroblasts with TGF-β1 treatment and attenuate lung fibrosis in silicotic mice. In addition, a mechanistic study showed that miR-411-3p exert its inhibitory effect on Smad ubiquitination regulatory factor 2 (Smurf2) expression and decrease ubiquitination degradation of Smad7 regulated by smurf2, result in blocking of TGF-β/Smad signaling. We proposed that increased expression of miR-411-3p abrogates silicosis by blocking activation of TGF-β/Smad signaling through decreasing ubiquitination degradation effect of smurf2 on Smad7.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuemin Gao
- Basic Medical College, Hebei Medical Collage, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050017, China
| | - Hong Xu
- School of Public Health, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, 063210, China
| | - Dingjie Xu
- School of Public Health, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, 063210, China
| | - Shumin Li
- School of Public Health, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, 063210, China
| | - Zhongqiu Wei
- Basic Medical College, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, 063210, China
| | - Shifeng Li
- School of Public Health, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, 063210, China
| | - Wenchen Cai
- School of Public Health, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, 063210, China
| | - Na Mao
- School of Public Health, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, 063210, China
| | - Fuyu Jin
- School of Public Health, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, 063210, China
| | - Yaqian Li
- School of Public Health, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, 063210, China
| | - Tian Li
- School of Public Health, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, 063210, China
| | - Xue Yi
- Key Labortary of Functional and Clinical Translational Medicine, Xiamen Medical College, Xianmen, Fujian, China
| | - Heliang Liu
- School of Public Health, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, 063210, China
| | - Fang Yang
- Basic Medical College, Hebei Medical Collage, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050017, China.
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Li S, Wei Z, Li G, Zhang Q, Niu S, Xu D, Mao N, Chen S, Gao X, Cai W, Zhu Y, Zhang G, Li D, Yi X, Yang F, Xu H. Silica Perturbs Primary Cilia and Causes Myofibroblast Differentiation during Silicosis by Reduction of the KIF3A-Repressor GLI3 Complex. Theranostics 2020; 10:1719-1732. [PMID: 32042332 PMCID: PMC6993221 DOI: 10.7150/thno.37049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2019] [Accepted: 10/04/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of Kinesin family member 3A (KIF3A) on primary cilia and myofibroblast differentiation during silicosis by regulating Sonic hedgehog (SHH) signalling. Methods: Changes in primary cilia during silicosis and myofibroblast differentiation were detected in silicotic patients, experimental silicotic rats, and a myofibroblast differentiation model induced by SiO2. We also explored the mechanisms underlying KIF3A regulation of Glioma-associated oncogene homologs (GLIs) involved in myofibroblast differentiation. Results: Primary cilia (marked by ARL13B and Ac-α-Tub) and ciliary-related proteins (IFT 88 and KIF3A) were increased initially and then decreased as silicosis progressed. Loss and shedding of primary cilia were also found during silicosis. Treatment of MRC-5 fibroblasts with silica and then transfection of KIF3A-siRNA blocked activation of SHH signalling, but increased GLI2FL as a transcriptional activator of SRF, and reduced the inhibitory effect of GLI3R on ACTA2. Conclusion: Our findings indicate that primary cilia are markedly altered during silicosis and the loss of KIF3A may promote myofibroblast differentiation induced by SiO2.
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MicroRNA-31/184 is involved in transforming growth factor-β-induced apoptosis in A549 human alveolar adenocarcinoma cells. Life Sci 2019; 242:117205. [PMID: 31874165 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2019.117205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2019] [Revised: 12/04/2019] [Accepted: 12/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
AIMS TGF-β-induced alveolar epithelial cells apoptosis were involved in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). This study aimed to explore potential targets and mechanisms of IPF. MAIN METHODS mRNA and microRNA arrays were used to analyze differentially expressed genes and miRNAs. Several essential targets of TGF-β-SMADs and TGF-β-PI3K-AKT pathways were detected. KEY FINDINGS miR-31 and miR-184 expression levels were positively correlated with smad6 and smad2/akt expression levels in IPF patients. TGF-β could induce miR-31 and suppress miR-184 levels in A549 cells. miR-31 was confirmed to bind to the smad6-3'UTR and functionally suppress its expression. Down-regulated SMAD6 enhanced SMAD2/SMAD4 dimer formation and translocation due to its failure to prevent SMAD2 phosphorylation. In contrast, anti-fibrotic functions of miR-184 were abolished due to TGF-β directly suppressing miR-184 levels in A549 cells. When A549 was stimulated by TGF-β combined with or without miR-31 inhibitor/miR-184 mimic, it was showed that depleted miR-31 and/or increased miR-184 significantly ameliorated TGF-β-induced viability of A549 cells, as well as inhibited the expression of profibrotic factors, MMP7 and RUNX2. SIGNIFICANCE Inhibiting miR-31 and/or promoting miR-184 protect against TGF-β-induced fibrogenesis by respectively repressing the TGF-β-SMAD2 and TGF-β-PI3K-AKT signaling pathways, implying that miR-31/184 are potential targets and suggesting a new management strategy for IPF.
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Chen Y, Xu D, Yao J, Wei Z, Li S, Gao X, Cai W, Mao N, Jin F, Li Y, Zhu Y, Li S, Liu H, Yang F, Xu H. Inhibition of miR-155-5p Exerts Anti-Fibrotic Effects in Silicotic Mice by Regulating Meprin α. MOLECULAR THERAPY-NUCLEIC ACIDS 2019; 19:350-360. [PMID: 31877411 PMCID: PMC6939030 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2019.11.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2019] [Revised: 11/06/2019] [Accepted: 11/17/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Silicosis is a fatal profession-related disease linked to long-term inhalation of silica. The present study aimed to determine whether meprin α, a master regulator of anti-fibrotic peptide N-acetyl-seryl-aspartyl-lysyl-proline (Ac-SDKP), is diminished by miR-155-5p in silicotic and control lung macrophages and fibroblasts upon activation. NR8383 macrophages, primary lung fibroblasts, and mouse embryonic fibroblasts were used to evaluate the expression and function of meprin α and miR-155-5p. In vitro meprin α manipulation was performed by recombinant mouse meprin α protein, actinonin (its inhibitor), and small interfering RNA knockdown. Macrophage and fibroblast activation was assessed by western blotting, real-time PCR, matrix deposition, and immunohistochemical staining. The roles of meprin α and miR-155-5p were also investigated in mice exposed to silica. We found that the meprin α level was stably repressed in silicotic rats. In vitro, silica decreased meprin α, and exogenous meprin α reduced activation of macrophages and fibroblasts induced by profibrotic factors. miR-155-5p negatively regulated Mep1a by binding to the 3′ untranslated region. Treatment with anti-miR-155-5p elevated meprin α, ameliorated macrophage and fibroblast activation, and attenuated lung fibrosis in mice induced by silica. The sustained repression of meprin α and beneficial effects of its rescue by inhibition of miR-155-5p during silicosis indicate that miR-155-5p/meprin α are two of the major regulators of silicosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingying Chen
- Medical Research Center, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, China
| | - Dingjie Xu
- Traditional Chinese Medicine College, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, China
| | - Jingxin Yao
- Medical Research Center, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, China
| | - Zhongqiu Wei
- Basic Medical College, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, China
| | - Shifeng Li
- Medical Research Center, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, China
| | - Xuemin Gao
- Medical Research Center, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, China
| | - Wenchen Cai
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, China
| | - Na Mao
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, China
| | - Fuyu Jin
- Medical Research Center, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, China
| | - Yaqian Li
- Medical Research Center, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, China
| | - Ying Zhu
- Medical Research Center, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, China
| | - Shumin Li
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, China
| | - Heliang Liu
- Medical Research Center, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, China; School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, China
| | - Fang Yang
- Medical Research Center, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, China; School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, China
| | - Hong Xu
- Medical Research Center, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, China.
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Inhibitory effects of astragaloside IV on silica-induced pulmonary fibrosis via inactivating TGF-β1/Smad3 signaling. Biomed Pharmacother 2019; 119:109387. [PMID: 31487583 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2019.109387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2019] [Revised: 08/16/2019] [Accepted: 08/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To observe the effect of astragaloside ASV (ASV) on silicosis fibroblasts, and further investigate its regulatory mechanism on TGF-β1/Smad3 signaling pathway. METHODS Silica-induced rats model was established in this study. RT-qPCR was performed to detect α-SMA, Collagen I, Collagen III, Smad2, Smad3 and Smad7 expression. Immunofluorescence was conducted to detect α-SMA, Collagen I, Collagen III and p-Smad3 protein and the nucleoplasmic distribution of p-Smad3.Western-blotting was performed to detect the protein of Smad2, p-Smad2, Smad3, p-Smad3 and Smad7. RESULTS 20 μg/mL ASV could effectively reduce the expression of α-SMA, Collagen I, Collagen III. TGF-β1 stimulated the proliferation of fibroblasts, promoted phosphorylation of Smad2 and Smad3, and down-regulated Smad7 expression. Among them, continuous phosphorylation of Smad3 is a major factor in causing fibrosis. Besides, ASV can inhibit silica-induced lung fibroblast fibrosis through TGF-β1/Smad3 signaling pathway, thereby inhibiting the formation of silicosis. CONCLUSION ASV could inhibit the expression of collagen in fibroblasts and the transformation to myofibroblasts, and has an anti-silicosis fibrosis effect, which may be related to the continuous phosphorylation of Smad3 in the TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway.
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Gao X, Xu H, Zhang B, Tao T, Liu Y, Xu D, Cai W, Wei Z, Li S, Zhang H, Mao N, Zhang G, Li D, Jin F, Li S, Zhang L, Liu H, Hao X, Yang F. Interaction of N-acetyl-seryl-aspartyl-lysyl-proline with the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2-angiotensin-(1-7)-Mas axis attenuates pulmonary fibrosis in silicotic rats. Exp Physiol 2019; 104:1562-1574. [PMID: 31290182 DOI: 10.1113/ep087515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2018] [Accepted: 07/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
NEW FINDINGS What is the central question of this study? What are the effects of the antifibrotic peptide acetyl-seryl-aspartyl-lysyl-proline (Ac-SDKP) on the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2)-angiotensin-(1-7)-Mas axis during the occurrence and progression of silicosis? What is the main finding and its importance? Ac-SDKP inhibited lung fibrosis in rats exposed to silica by activation of the ACE2-angiotensin-(1-7)-Mas axis. Angiotensin-(1-7) potentially promotes Ac-SDKP by increasing the level of meprin α, the major synthetase of Ac-SDKP. Thus, the interaction Ac-SDKP and angiotesin-(1-7) in silicosis could provide a new therapeutic strategy. ABSTRACT The central role of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) in the occurrence and progression of silicosis has been established. The antifibrotic peptide acetyl-seryl-aspartyl-lysyl-proline (Ac-SDKP) can be degraded by ACE. The ACE2-angiotensin-(1-7)-Mas axis is protective and acts to counterbalance the detrimental effects of ACE-angiotensin II (Ang II)-Ang II type 1 receptor and exerts antifibrotic effects. Here, we demonstrate an interaction between Ac-SDKP and Ang-(1-7) in the inhibition of collagen deposition and myofibroblast differentiation in rats exposed to silica. Treatment with Ac-SDKP increased the level of ACE2-Ang-(1-7)-Mas in rats or in cultured fibroblasts and decreased the levels of collagen type I and α-smooth muscle actin. Furthermore, exogenous Ang-(1-7) had similar antifibrotic effects and increased the level of meprin α, a major Ac-SDKP synthetase, both in vivo and in vitro. Compared with non-silicotic patients exposed to silica, the level of serum ACE was increased in patients with silicosis phase III; the levels of Ang II and Ang-(1-7) were high in patients with silicosis phase II; and the level of Ac-SDKP was high in the silicosis phase III group. These data imply that Ac-SDKP and Ang-(1-7) have an interactive effect as regulatory peptides of the renin-angiotensin system and exert antifibrotic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuemin Gao
- Basic Medical College, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Hong Xu
- Medical Research Center, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, China
| | - Bonan Zhang
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, China
| | - Tao Tao
- Foreign Languages College, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, China
| | - Yalou Liu
- Foreign Languages College, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, China
| | - Dingjie Xu
- Traditional Chinese Medicine College, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, China
| | - Wenchen Cai
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, China
| | - Zhongqiu Wei
- Medical Research Center, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, China
| | - Shifeng Li
- Medical Research Center, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, China
| | - Hui Zhang
- Medical Research Center, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, China
| | - Na Mao
- Medical Research Center, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, China
| | - Guizhen Zhang
- Medical Research Center, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, China
| | - Dan Li
- Medical Research Center, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, China
| | - Fuyu Jin
- Medical Research Center, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, China
| | - Shumin Li
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, China
| | - Lijuan Zhang
- Medical Research Center, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, China
| | - Heliang Liu
- Medical Research Center, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, China
| | - Xiaohui Hao
- Medical Research Center, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, China
| | - Fang Yang
- Basic Medical College, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
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Role of Nephronectin in Pathophysiology of Silicosis. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20102581. [PMID: 31130697 PMCID: PMC6566895 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20102581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2019] [Revised: 05/16/2019] [Accepted: 05/25/2019] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Silicosis is a typical form of pneumoconiosis and is characterized as a type of lung fibrosis. Silica particles are captured and recognized upon by alveolar macrophages via the macrophage receptor with collagenous structure (MARCO) scavenger receptor, and thereafter the inflammasome is activated. Thereafter, various chemokines/cytokines play their roles to eventually form fibrosis. Additionally, silica particles chronically activate T helper cells which sets the background for the formation of silicosis-associated autoimmune disturbances. The occurrence and progression of lung fibrosis, the extracellular matrix-related molecules such as integrins and their ligands including fibronectin, vitronectin, laminin, and collagens, all play important roles. Here, the roles of these molecules in silicosis-related lung fibrosis are reviewed from the literature. Additionally, the measurement of serum nephronectin (Npnt), a new member of the integrin family of ligands, is discussed, together with investigations attempting to delineate the role of Npnt in silica-induced lung fibrosis. Serum Npnt was found to be higher in silicosis patients compared to healthy volunteers and seems to play a role in the progression of fibrosis with other cytokines. Therefore, serum Npnt levels may be employed as a suitable marker to monitor the progression of fibrosis in silicosis patients.
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