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Zhang F, Cui X, Yang K, Guo R, Zhu L, Zhao W, Liu Z, Liu B. Activin A inhibits the migration of human lung adenocarcinoma A549 cells induced by EGF. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 142:113170. [PMID: 39288626 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.113170] [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: 03/11/2024] [Revised: 09/06/2024] [Accepted: 09/11/2024] [Indexed: 09/19/2024]
Abstract
Activin A, a member of the transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) superfamily, is involved in tumorigenesis and tumor progression. However, it remains unclear whether activin A can affect the migration of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) cells. In this study, the results of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) identification revealed that lung adenocarcinoma tissues exhibited lower expression of activin βA mRNA, but higher expression of epidermal growth factor (EGF) and MMP9 mRNA compared to nontumor tissues. Moreover, we found that activin A inhibited human LUAD A549 cell proliferation promoted by EGF. Additionally, EGF induced A549 cell migration in microfluidic device, while activin A attenuated EGF actions. Simultaneously, EGF increased the levels of migration-related proteins, but activin A played the opposite role. Furthermore, the study revealed that EGF upregulated the ratio of p-ERK/ERK in A549 cells, which was weakened by activin A, and A549 cell migration regulated by activin A was not related to calcium signaling. In addition, the inhibitory effect of activin A on EGF-induced A549 cell migration was attenuated by the ERK inhibitor FR180204. These findings demonstrate that activin A effectively hinders the migration of A549 cells induced by EGF through ERK1/2 signaling, suggesting that targeting activin A may hold promise in the treatment of EGF-dependent LUAD growth and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fenglin Zhang
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province 130021, China
| | - Xueling Cui
- Department of Genetics, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province 130021, China; Key Laboratory of Neuroimmunology and Clinical Immunology in Jilin Province, Jilin Province 130021, China
| | - Ke Yang
- Institute of Applied Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, Anhui Province 230031, China
| | - Rui Guo
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province 130021, China
| | - Linjing Zhu
- Department of Genetics, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province 130021, China
| | - Wei Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Neuroimmunology and Clinical Immunology in Jilin Province, Jilin Province 130021, China; Department of Internal Medicine, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province 130021, China
| | - Zhonghui Liu
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province 130021, China; Key Laboratory of Neuroimmunology and Clinical Immunology in Jilin Province, Jilin Province 130021, China
| | - Boyang Liu
- Department of Genetics, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province 130021, China; Department of Scientific Research, Jilin Jianzhu University, Changchun, Jilin Province 130118, China.
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Qi Y, Wang H, Wu J, Wang R, Xu Z, Cui X, Liu Z. Microfluidic device reveals new insights into impairment of neutrophil transmigration in patients with sepsis. Biosens Bioelectron 2024; 260:116460. [PMID: 38843769 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2024.116460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
Neutrophils need to migrate through tight tissue spaces to eliminate pathogens, but their movement is often hindered by their large and stiff nuclei. Neutrophil migration is impaired in sepsis patients, but it is unclear whether this defect is related to the deformability of their nuclei. Herein, we designed microfluidic devices with micron-scale narrow slits to simulate biological barriers. This setup allowed us to observe and record neutrophil movement and nuclear deformation in real-time. We also developed a method for morphological analysis to quantify nucleus deformation in numerous individual cells. Our studies showed that neutrophils from healthy individuals could adjust their nuclear shape to squeeze through these constrictions, whereas those from sepsis patients demonstrated less flexibility. Neutrophils with rigid nuclei struggled to pass through narrow gaps and were more likely to rupture under pressure. These findings suggest that the migration defects of neutrophils observed in sepsis may be attributed to the inability of neutrophils to deform their nuclei, highlighting the crucial role of microfluidic technologies in offering new insights into migration defects under pathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Qi
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Heyuan Wang
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Jiandong Wu
- Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Runnan Wang
- Department of Genetics, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Zhihao Xu
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Xueling Cui
- Department of Genetics, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China.
| | - Zhonghui Liu
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China.
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3
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Zhang W, Zhu L, Fang F, Zhang F, Wang R, Yang K, Liu Y, Cui X. Activin A plays an essential role in migration and proliferation of hepatic stellate cells via Smad3 and calcium signaling. Sci Rep 2024; 14:20419. [PMID: 39223291 PMCID: PMC11369249 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-71304-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2024] [Accepted: 08/27/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Activin A and hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are involved in tissue repair and fibrosis in liver injury. This study investigated the impact of activin A on HSC activation and migration. A microfluidic D4-chip was used for examining the cell migration of mouse hepatic stellate cell line MHSteC. The analysis of differentially expressed genes revealed that activin βA (Inhba), activin receptor type 1A (Acvr1a) and type 2A (Acvr2a) mRNAs were more significantly expressed in human HSCs than in the hepatocytes. Moreover, activin A promoted MHSteC proliferation and induced MHSteC migration. Furthermore, the MHSteCs treated with activin A exhibited increased levels of migration-related proteins, N-cadherin, Vimentin, α-SMA, MMP2 and MMP9, but a decreased level of E-cadherin. Additionally, activin A treatment significantly increased the p-Smad3 levels and p-Smad3/Smad3 ratio in the MHSteCs, and the Smad3 inhibitor SIS3 attenuated activin A-induced MHSteC proliferation and migration. Simultaneously, activin A increased the calcium levels in the MHSteCs, and the migratory effects of activin A on MHSteCs were weakened by the intracellular calcium ion-chelating agent BAPTA-AM. These data indicate that activin A can promote MHSteC activation and migration through the canonical Smad3 signaling and calcium signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, General Surgery Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, Jilin, China
| | - Linjing Zhu
- Department of Genetics, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, Jilin, China
| | - Fang Fang
- Department of Genetics, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, Jilin, China
| | - Fenglin Zhang
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, Jilin, China
| | - Runnan Wang
- Department of Genetics, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, Jilin, China
| | - Ke Yang
- Institute of Applied Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, 230031, Anhui, China
| | - Yahui Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, General Surgery Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, Jilin, China.
| | - Xueling Cui
- Department of Genetics, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, Jilin, China.
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4
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Zhu L, Cui X, Jiang L, Fang F, Liu B. Application and prospect of microfluidic devices for rapid assay of cell activities in the tumor microenvironment. BIOMICROFLUIDICS 2024; 18:031506. [PMID: 38899164 PMCID: PMC11185871 DOI: 10.1063/5.0206058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
The global impact of cancer on human health has raised significant concern. In this context, the tumor microenvironment (TME) plays a pivotal role in the tumorigenesis and malignant progression. In order to enhance the accuracy and efficacy of therapeutic outcomes, there is an imminent requirement for in vitro models that can accurately replicate the intricate characteristics and constituents of TME. Microfluidic devices exhibit notable advantages in investigating the progression and treatment of tumors and have the potential to become a novel methodology for evaluating immune cell activities in TME and assist clinicians in assessing the prognosis of patients. In addition, it shows great advantages compared to traditional cell experiments. Therefore, the review first outlines the applications and advantages of microfluidic chips in facilitating tumor cell culture, constructing TME and investigating immune cell activities. Second, the roles of microfluidic devices in the analysis of circulating tumor cells, tumor prognosis, and drug screening have also been mentioned. Moreover, a forward-looking perspective is discussed, anticipating the widespread clinical adoption of microfluidic devices in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linjing Zhu
- Department of Genetics, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, China
| | - Xueling Cui
- Department of Genetics, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, China
| | - Lingling Jiang
- Department of Oral Comprehensive Therapy, Hospital of Stomatology, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, China
| | - Fang Fang
- Department of Genetics, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, China
| | - Boyang Liu
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed:
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Wang Y, Liu Z, Qi Y, Wu J, Liu B, Cui X. Activin A, a Novel Chemokine, Induces Mouse NK Cell Migration via AKT and Calcium Signaling. Cells 2024; 13:728. [PMID: 38727264 PMCID: PMC11083611 DOI: 10.3390/cells13090728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2024] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells can migrate quickly to the tumor site to exert cytotoxic effects on tumors, and some chemokines, including CXCL8, CXCL10 or and CXCL12, can regulate the migration of NK cells. Activin A, a member of the transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) superfamily, is highly expressed in tumor tissues and involved in tumor development and immune cell activation. In this study, we focus on the effects of activin A on NK cell migration. In vitro, activin A induced NK cell migration and invasion, promoted cell polarization and inhibited cell adhesion. Moreover, activin A increased Ca2+, p-SMAD3 and p-AKT levels in NK cells. An AKT inhibitor and Ca2+ chelator partially blocked activin A-induced NK cell migration. In vivo, exogenous activin A increased tumor-infiltrating NK cells in NS-1 cell solid tumors and inhibited tumor growth, and blocking endogenous activin A with anti-activin A antibody reduced tumor-infiltrating NK cells in 4T-1 cell solid tumors. These results suggest that activin A induces NK cell migration through AKT signaling and calcium signaling and may enhance the antitumor effect of NK cells by increasing tumor-infiltrating NK cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunfeng Wang
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China; (Y.W.); (Z.L.); (Y.Q.)
- Key Laboratory of Neuroimmunology and Clinical Immunology, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Zhonghui Liu
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China; (Y.W.); (Z.L.); (Y.Q.)
- Key Laboratory of Neuroimmunology and Clinical Immunology, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Yan Qi
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China; (Y.W.); (Z.L.); (Y.Q.)
- Key Laboratory of Neuroimmunology and Clinical Immunology, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Jiandong Wu
- Bionic Sensing and Intelligence Center, Institute of Biomedical and Health Engineering, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China;
| | - Boyang Liu
- Department of Genetics, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
- Department of Scientific Research, Jilin Jianzhu University, Changchun 130118, China
| | - Xueling Cui
- Key Laboratory of Neuroimmunology and Clinical Immunology, Changchun 130021, China
- Department of Genetics, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
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Zhang Y, Yan Z, Wu H, Yang X, Yang K, Song W. Low-Temperature Plasma-Activated Medium Inhibits the Migration of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Cells via the Wnt/ β-Catenin Pathway. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1073. [PMID: 37509109 PMCID: PMC10377075 DOI: 10.3390/biom13071073] [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: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 06/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
This study explored the molecular mechanism of the plasma activation medium (PAM) inhibiting the migration ability of NSCLC (non-small cell lung cancer) cells. The effect of PAM incubation on the cell viability of NSCLC was detected through a cell viability experiment. Transwell cells and microfluidic chips were used to investigate the effects of PAM on the migration capacity of NSCLC cells, and the latter was used for the first time to observe the changes in the migration capacity of cancer cells treated with PAM. Moreover, the molecular mechanisms of PAM affecting the migration ability of NSCLC cells were investigated through intracellular and extracellular ROS detection, mitochondrial membrane potential, and Western blot experiments. The results showed that after long-term treatment with PAM, the high level of ROS produced by PAM reduced the level of the mitochondrial membrane potential of cells and blocked the cell division cycle in the G2/M phase. At the same time, the EMT process was reversed by inhibiting the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. These results suggested that the high ROS levels generated by the PAM treatment reversed the EMT process by inhibiting the WNT/β-catenin pathway in NSCLC cells and thus inhibited the migration of NSCLC cells. Therefore, these results provide good theoretical support for the clinical treatment of NSCLC with PAM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zhang
- School of Medicine, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Huainan 232001, China
- Anhui Institute of Optics and Fine Mechanics, Institute of Health & Medical Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei 230031, China
| | - Zhuna Yan
- School of Medicine, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Huainan 232001, China
- Anhui Institute of Optics and Fine Mechanics, Institute of Health & Medical Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei 230031, China
| | - Hui Wu
- Anhui Institute of Optics and Fine Mechanics, Institute of Health & Medical Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei 230031, China
| | - Xiao Yang
- Anhui Institute of Optics and Fine Mechanics, Institute of Health & Medical Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei 230031, China
| | - Ke Yang
- Anhui Institute of Optics and Fine Mechanics, Institute of Health & Medical Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei 230031, China
| | - Wencheng Song
- School of Medicine, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Huainan 232001, China
- Anhui Institute of Optics and Fine Mechanics, Institute of Health & Medical Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei 230031, China
- Hefei Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei 230031, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Radiation Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions and School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
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7
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McMinn PH, Ahmed A, Huttenlocher A, Beebe DJ, Kerr SC. The lymphatic endothelium-derived follistatin: activin A axis regulates neutrophil motility in response to Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Integr Biol (Camb) 2023; 15:zyad003. [PMID: 36781971 PMCID: PMC10101905 DOI: 10.1093/intbio/zyad003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
Abstract
The lymphatic system plays an active role during infection, however the role of lymphatic-neutrophil interactions in host-defense responses is not well understood. During infection with pathogens such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus and Yersinia pestis, neutrophils traffic from sites of infection through the lymphatic vasculature, to draining lymph nodes to interact with resident lymphocytes. This process is poorly understood, in part, due to the lack of in vitro models of the lymphatic system. Here we use a 3D microscale lymphatic vessel model to examine neutrophil-lymphatic cell interactions during host defense responses to pathogens. In previous work, we have shown that follistatin is secreted at high concentrations by lymphatic endothelial cells during inflammation. Follistatin inhibits activin A, a member of the TGF-β superfamily, and, together, these molecules form a signaling pathway that plays a role in regulating both innate and adaptive immune responses. Although follistatin and activin A are constitutively produced in the pituitary, gonads and skin, their major source in the serum and their effects on neutrophils are poorly understood. Here we report a microfluidic model that includes both blood and lymphatic endothelial vessels, and neutrophils to investigate neutrophil-lymphatic trafficking during infection with P. aeruginosa. We found that lymphatic endothelial cells produce secreted factors that increase neutrophil migration toward P. aeruginosa, and are a significant source of both follistatin and activin A during Pseudomonas infection. We determined that follistatin produced by lymphatic endothelial cells inhibits activin A, resulting in increased neutrophil migration. These data suggest that the follistatin:activin A ratio influences neutrophil trafficking during infection with higher ratios increasing neutrophil migration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick H McMinn
- Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Adeel Ahmed
- Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Anna Huttenlocher
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - David J Beebe
- Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Sheena C Kerr
- Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
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8
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Liu G, Qi Y, Wu J, Lin F, Liu Z, Cui X. Follistatin is a crucial chemoattractant for mouse decidualized endometrial stromal cell migration by JNK signalling. J Cell Mol Med 2022; 27:127-140. [PMID: 36528873 PMCID: PMC9806297 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.17648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Revised: 11/19/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Follistatin (FST) and activin A as gonadal proteins exhibit opposite effects on follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) release from pituitary gland, and activin A-FST system is involved in regulation of decidualization in reproductive biology. However, the roles of FST and activin A in migration of decidualized endometrial stromal cells are not well characterized. In this study, transwell chambers and microfluidic devices were used to assess the effects of FST and activin A on migration of decidualized mouse endometrial stromal cells (d-MESCs). We found that compared with activin A, FST exerted more significant effects on adhesion, wound healing and migration of d-MESCs. Similar results were also seen in the primary cultured decidual stromal cells (DSCs) from uterus of pregnant mouse. Simultaneously, the results revealed that FST increased calcium influx and upregulated the expression levels of the migration-related proteins MMP9 and Ezrin in d-MESCs. In addition, FST increased the level of phosphorylation of JNK in d-MESCs, and JNK inhibitor AS601245 significantly attenuated FST action on inducing migration of d-MESCs. These data suggest that FST, not activin A in activin A-FST system, is a crucial chemoattractant for migration of d-MESCs by JNK signalling to facilitate the successful uterine decidualization and tissue remodelling during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guole Liu
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical SciencesJilin UniversityChangchunChina
| | - Yan Qi
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical SciencesJilin UniversityChangchunChina
| | - Jiandong Wu
- Institute of Biomedical and Health Engineering, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of SciencesShenzhenChina
| | - Francis Lin
- Department of Physics and AstronomyUniversity of ManitobaWinnipegManitobaCanada
| | - Zhonghui Liu
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical SciencesJilin UniversityChangchunChina
| | - Xueling Cui
- Department of Genetics, College of Basic Medical SciencesJilin UniversityChangchunChina
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Li J, Qi Y, Yang K, Zhu L, Cui X, Liu Z. Follistatin Is a Novel Chemoattractant for Migration and Invasion of Placental Trophoblasts of Mice. Cells 2022; 11:cells11233816. [PMID: 36497076 PMCID: PMC9741044 DOI: 10.3390/cells11233816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2022] [Revised: 11/19/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Follistatin (FST) as a gonadal protein is central to the establishment and maintenance of pregnancy. Trophoblasts' migration and invasion into the endometrium are critical events in placental development. This study aimed to elucidate the role of FST in the migration and invasion of placental trophoblasts of mice. We found that FST increased the vitality and proliferation of primary cultured trophoblasts of embryonic day 8.5 (E8.5) mice and promoted wound healing of trophoblasts. Moreover, FST significantly induced migration of trophoblasts in a microfluidic device and increased the number of invasive trophoblasts by Matrigel-coated transwell invasion assay. Being treated with FST, the adhesion of trophoblasts was inhibited, but intracellular calcium flux of trophoblasts was increased. Western blotting results showed that FST had no significant effects on the level of p-Smad3 or the ratio of p-Smad3/Smad3 in trophoblasts. Interestingly, FST elevated the level of p-JNK; the ratio of p-JNK/JNK; and expression of migration-related proteins N-cadherin, vimentin, ezrin and MMP2 in trophoblasts. Additionally, the migration of trophoblasts and expression of N-cadherin, vimentin, and MMP2 in trophoblasts induced by FST were attenuated by JNK inhibitor AS601245. These findings suggest that the elevated FST in pregnancy may act as a chemokine to induce trophoblast migration and invasion through the enhanced JNK signaling to maintain trophoblast function and promote placental development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Li
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Yan Qi
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
- Key Laboratory of Neuroimmunology and Clinical Immunology, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Ke Yang
- Institute of Applied Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei 230031, China
| | - Linjing Zhu
- Department of Genetics, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Xueling Cui
- Key Laboratory of Neuroimmunology and Clinical Immunology, Changchun 130021, China
- Department of Genetics, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Zhonghui Liu
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
- Key Laboratory of Neuroimmunology and Clinical Immunology, Changchun 130021, China
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-431-8561-9476
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10
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Yang X, Gao C, Liu Y, Zhu L, Yang K. Simplified Cell Magnetic Isolation Assisted SC 2 Chip to Realize "Sample in and Chemotaxis Out": Validated by Healthy and T2DM Patients' Neutrophils. MICROMACHINES 2022; 13:1820. [PMID: 36363840 PMCID: PMC9692824 DOI: 10.3390/mi13111820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Neutrophil migration in tissues critically regulates the human immune response and can either play a protective role in host defense or cause health problems. Microfluidic chips are increasingly applied to study neutrophil migration, attributing to their advantages of low reagent consumption, stable chemical gradients, visualized cell chemotaxis monitoring, and quantification. Most chemotaxis chips suffered from low throughput and fussy cell separation operations. We here reported a novel and simple "sample in and chemotaxis out" method for rapid neutrophils isolation from a small amount of whole blood based on a simplified magnetic method, followed by a chemotaxis assay on a microfluidic chip (SC2 chip) consisting of six cell migration units and six-cell arrangement areas. The advantages of the "sample in and chemotaxis out" method included: less reagent consumption (10 μL of blood + 1 μL of magnetic beads + 1 μL of lysis buffer); less time (5 min of cell isolation + 15 min of chemotaxis testing); no ultracentrifugation; more convenient; higher efficiency; high throughput. We have successfully validated the approach by measuring neutrophil chemotaxis to frequently-used chemoattractant (i.e., fMLP). The effects of D-glucose and mannitol on neutrophil chemotaxis were also analyzed. In addition, we demonstrated the effectiveness of this approach for testing clinical samples from diabetes mellitus type 2 (T2DM) patients. We found neutrophils' migration speed was higher in the "well-control" T2DM than in the "poor-control" group. Pearson coefficient analysis further showed that the migration speed of T2DM was negatively correlated with physiological indicators, such as HbA1c (-0.44), triglyceride (-0.36), C-reactive protein (-0.28), and total cholesterol (-0.28). We are very confident that the developed "sample in and chemotaxis out" method was hoped to be an attractive model for analyzing the chemotaxis of healthy and disease-associated neutrophils.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Yang
- Anhui Institute of Optics and Fine Mechanics, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei 230031, China
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Chaoru Gao
- Anhui Institute of Optics and Fine Mechanics, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei 230031, China
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Yong Liu
- Anhui Institute of Optics and Fine Mechanics, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei 230031, China
| | - Ling Zhu
- Anhui Institute of Optics and Fine Mechanics, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei 230031, China
| | - Ke Yang
- Anhui Institute of Optics and Fine Mechanics, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei 230031, China
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11
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Ren J, Wang N, Guo P, Fan Y, Lin F, Wu J. Recent advances in microfluidics-based cell migration research. LAB ON A CHIP 2022; 22:3361-3376. [PMID: 35993877 DOI: 10.1039/d2lc00397j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Cell migration is crucial for many biological processes, including normal development, immune response, and tissue homeostasis and many pathological processes such as cancer metastasis and wound healing. Microfluidics has revolutionized the research in cell migration since its inception as it reduces the cost of studies and allows precise manipulation of different parameters that affect cell migratory response. Over the past decade, the field has made great strides in many directions, such as techniques for better control of the cellular microenvironment, application-oriented physiological-like models, and machine-assisted cell image analysis methods. Here we review recent developments in the field of microfluidic cell migration through the following aspects: 1) the co-culture models for studying host-pathogen interactions at single-cell resolution; 2) the spatiotemporal manipulation of the chemical gradients guiding cell migration; 3) the organ-on-chip models to study cell transmigration; and 4) the deep learning image processing strategies for cell migration data analysis. We further discuss the challenges, possible improvement and future perspectives of using microfluidic techniques to study cell migration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaqi Ren
- Institute of Biomedical and Health Engineering, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China.
| | - Ning Wang
- Institute of Biomedical and Health Engineering, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China.
- School of Optical-Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200093, China
| | - Piao Guo
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
- Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Yanping Fan
- School of Optical-Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200093, China
| | - Francis Lin
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, R3T 2N2, Canada.
| | - Jiandong Wu
- Institute of Biomedical and Health Engineering, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China.
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12
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Li Y, Cheng Z, Yu F, Zhang Q, Yu S, Ding F, He Q. Activin A Secreted From Peripheral Nerve Fibroblasts Promotes Proliferation and Migration of Schwann Cells. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:859349. [PMID: 35875658 PMCID: PMC9301483 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.859349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The peripheral nervous system has remarkable regenerative capabilities. Schwann cells and fibroblasts are known to play crucial roles in these processes. In this study, we delineated the differential effects of peripheral nerve fibroblasts and cardiac fibroblasts on Schwann cells. We found that peripheral nerve fibroblasts significantly promoted Schwann cell proliferation and migration compared with cardiac fibroblasts. The cytokine array results identified 32 of 67 proteins that were considered differentially expressed in peripheral nerve fibroblasts versus cardiac fibroblasts. Among them, 25 were significantly upregulated in peripheral nerve fibroblasts compared with cardiac fibroblasts. Activin A, the protein with the greatest differential expression, clearly co-localized with fibroblasts in the in vivo sciatic never injury rat model. In vitro experiments proved that activin A secreted from nerve fibroblasts is the key factor responsible for boosting proliferation and migration of Schwann cells through ALK4, ALK5, and ALK7. Overall, these findings suggest that peripheral nerve fibroblasts and cardiac fibroblasts exhibit different patterns of cytokine secretion and activin A secreted from peripheral nerve fibroblasts can promote the proliferation and migration of Schwann cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Li
- School of Biology and Basic Medical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Zhenghang Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Fanhui Yu
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Qi Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Shu Yu
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Fei Ding
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, China
- *Correspondence: Fei Ding,
| | - Qianru He
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, China
- Qianru He,
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13
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Maulana TI, Kromidas E, Wallstabe L, Cipriano M, Alb M, Zaupa C, Hudecek M, Fogal B, Loskill P. Immunocompetent cancer-on-chip models to assess immuno-oncology therapy. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2021; 173:281-305. [PMID: 33798643 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2020] [Revised: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The advances in cancer immunotherapy come with several obstacles, limiting its widespread use and benefits so far only to a small subset of patients. One of the underlying challenges remains to be the lack of representative nonclinical models that translate to human immunity and are able to predict clinical efficacy and safety outcomes. In recent years, immunocompetent Cancer-on-Chip models emerge as an alternative human-based platform that enables the integration and manipulation of complex tumor microenvironment. In this review, we discuss novel opportunities offered by Cancer-on-Chip models to advance (mechanistic) immuno-oncology research, ranging from design flexibility to multimodal analysis approaches. We then exemplify their (potential) applications for the research and development of adoptive cell therapy, immune checkpoint therapy, cytokine therapy, oncolytic virus, and cancer vaccines.
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14
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Jiang L, Qi Y, Kong X, Wang R, Qi J, Lin F, Cui X, Liu Z. Activin A as a Novel Chemokine Induces Migration of L929 Fibroblasts by ERK Signaling in Microfluidic Devices. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:660316. [PMID: 34095123 PMCID: PMC8175620 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.660316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Activin A, a member of the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) superfamily, contributes to tissue healing and fibrosis. As the innate tissue cells, fibroblasts also play an important role in wound healing and fibrosis. Herein, this study was aimed to investigate how activin A exhibited regulatory effects on adhesion and migration of fibroblasts. We found that activin A induced the migration of fibroblast cell line L929 cells in transwell chamber and microfluidic device. Activin A also promoted L929 cells adhesion, but did not affect L929 cells viability or proliferation. In addition, activin A induced α-SMA expression and TGF-β1 release, which were factors closely related to tissue fibrosis, but had no effect on IL-6 production, a pro-inflammatory cytokine. Furthermore, activin A elevated calcium levels in L929 cells and increased p-ERK protein levels. Activin A-induced migration of L929 cells was attenuated by ERK inhibitor FR180204. To conclude, these data indicated that activin A as a novel chemokine induced the chemotactic migration of L929 cells via ERK signaling and possessed the pro-fibrosis role. These findings provide a new insight into understanding of activin A in tissue fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingling Jiang
- Department of Oral Comprehensive Therapy, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Jilin University, Changchun, China.,Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yan Qi
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xianghan Kong
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Runnan Wang
- Department of Genetics, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jianfei Qi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Francis Lin
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Xueling Cui
- Department of Genetics, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Zhonghui Liu
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
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15
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Qi Y, Jiang L, Wu C, Li J, Wang H, Wang S, Chen X, Cui X, Liu Z. Activin A impairs ActRIIA + neutrophil recruitment into infected skin of mice. iScience 2021; 24:102080. [PMID: 33604525 PMCID: PMC7873648 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2021.102080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Revised: 12/10/2020] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Activin A levels are elevated during multiple severe infections and associated with an increased risk of death. However, the role of activin A in bacterial infection is still unclear. Here, we found that activin A levels were increased during S. aureus skin infection in mice. Administration of activin A increased the bacterial burden and promoted the spread of bacteria in vivo. Moreover, activin A inhibited neutrophil chemotaxis to N-formylmethionine-leucyl-phenylalanine via the type IIA activin receptor (ActRIIA) in vitro and impaired ActRIIA+ neutrophil recruitment to infection foci in vivo. Additionally, we identified a novel subpopulation of neutrophils, ActRIIA+ neutrophils, which exhibit superior phagocytic capacity compared to ActRIIA− neutrophils and possess an N2-like immunoregulatory activity via secreting IL-10 and TGF-β. Taken together, these findings indicate that activin A inhibits the recruitment of ActRIIA+ neutrophils to infected foci, leading to the impairment of bacterial clearance, and thus may hamper early infection control. A novel activin A-responsitive subpopulation of neutrophils (ActRIIA+) was identified ActRIIA+ neutrophils exhibit N2-like immunoregulatory properties Activin A inhibits ActRIIA+ neutrophil recruitment to infected skin
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Qi
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Lingling Jiang
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China.,Department of Oral Comprehensive Therapy, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Chengdong Wu
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Jing Li
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Heyuan Wang
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Shiji Wang
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China.,Department of Critical Care Medicine, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Xintong Chen
- Department of Genetics, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Xueling Cui
- Department of Genetics, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Zhonghui Liu
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
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16
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Jiang L, Liu B, Qi Y, Zhu L, Cui X, Liu Z. Antagonistic effects of activin A and TNF-α on the activation of L929 fibroblast cells via Smad3-independent signaling. Sci Rep 2020; 10:20623. [PMID: 33244088 PMCID: PMC7693280 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-77783-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibroblasts play an important role in inflammation and tissue fibrosis. Both activin A and TNF-α can activate immune cells, however, the roles and relationship of them in activating fibroblasts in inflammation remain unclear. Here, this study revealed that TNF-α promoted the release of NO and IL-6 by L929 fibroblast cells, but co-treatment with activin A attenuated these effects. In contrast, activin A induced cell migration and increased the production of tissue fibrosis-related TGF-β1 and fibronectin, while TNF-α inhibited these function changes of L929 cells induced by activin A. Moreover, this study revealed that activin A and TNF-α regulated the activities of L929 cells via ERK1/2/MAPK pathway, rather than Smad3-dependent signaling pathway. Taken together, these data indicate that activin A and TNF-α exert mutually antagonistic effects on regulating fibroblasts activities, and the balance between their action may determine the process and outcome of fibroblasts-mediated inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingling Jiang
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, 126 Xinmin Street, Changchun, 130021, Jilin, China.,Department of General Dentistry, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, Jilin, China
| | - Boyang Liu
- Department of Genetics, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, Jilin, China.,Department of Scientific Research, Jilin Jianzhu University, Changchun, 130118, Jilin, China
| | - Yan Qi
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, 126 Xinmin Street, Changchun, 130021, Jilin, China
| | - Linru Zhu
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, 126 Xinmin Street, Changchun, 130021, Jilin, China
| | - Xueling Cui
- Department of Genetics, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, Jilin, China
| | - Zhonghui Liu
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, 126 Xinmin Street, Changchun, 130021, Jilin, China.
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17
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Wound Repair, Scar Formation, and Cancer: Converging on Activin. Trends Mol Med 2020; 26:1107-1117. [PMID: 32878730 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2020.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Revised: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Wound repair is a highly regulated process that requires the interaction of various cell types. It has been shown that cancers use the mechanisms of wound healing to promote their own growth. Therefore, it is of importance to identify common regulators of wound repair and tumor formation and to unravel their functions and mechanisms of action. An exciting example is activin, which acts on multiple cell types in wounds and tumors, thereby promoting healing, but also scar formation and tumorigenesis. Here, we summarize current knowledge on the role of activin in these processes and highlight the therapeutic potential of activin or activin antagonists for the treatment of impaired healing or excessive scarring and cancer, respectively.
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18
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Rossi B, Constantin G, Zenaro E. The emerging role of neutrophils in neurodegeneration. Immunobiology 2020; 225:151865. [DOI: 10.1016/j.imbio.2019.10.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2019] [Accepted: 10/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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19
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Zessner-Spitzenberg J, Thomas AL, Krett NL, Jung B. TGFβ and activin A in the tumor microenvironment in colorectal cancer. GENE REPORTS 2019; 17. [PMID: 32154442 DOI: 10.1016/j.genrep.2019.100501] [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] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Although overall survival in colorectal cancer (CRC) is increasing steadily due to progress in screening, therapeutic options and precise diagnostic tools remain scarce. As the understanding of CRC as a complex and multifactorial condition moves forward, the tumor microenvironment has come into focus as a source of diagnostic markers and potential therapeutic targets. The role of TGFβ in shifting the epithelial cancer compartment towards invasiveness and a pro-migratory phenotype via stromal signaling has been widely investigated. Accordingly, recent studies have proposed that CRC patients could be stratified into distinct subtypes and have identified one poor prognosis subset of CRC that is characterized by high stromal activity and elevated levels of TGFβ. The TGFβ superfamily member activin A is crucial for the pro-metastatic properties of the TGFβ pathway, yet it has been under-researched in CRC carcinogenesis. In this review, we will elucidate the signaling network and interdependency of both ligands in the context of the tumor microenvironment in CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasmin Zessner-Spitzenberg
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Illinois Medical College, Chicago, IL 60612, USA.,Medical University of Vienna, Spitalgasse 23, 1090 Wien, Austria
| | - Alexandra L Thomas
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Illinois Medical College, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Nancy L Krett
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Illinois Medical College, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Barbara Jung
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Illinois Medical College, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
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20
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Activin-A in the regulation of immunity in health and disease. J Autoimmun 2019; 104:102314. [PMID: 31416681 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2019.102314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2019] [Accepted: 07/28/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The TGF-β superfamily of cytokines plays pivotal roles in the regulation of immune responses protecting against or contributing to diseases, such as, allergy, autoimmunity and cancer. Activin-A, a member of the TGF-β superfamily, was initially identified as an inducer of follicle-stimulating hormone secretion. Extensive research over the past decades illuminated fundamental roles for activin-A in essential biologic processes, including embryonic development, stem cell maintenance and differentiation, haematopoiesis, cell proliferation and tissue fibrosis. Activin-A signals through two type I and two type II receptors which, upon ligand binding, activate their kinase activity, phosphorylate the SMAD2 and 3 intracellular signaling mediators that form a complex with SMAD4, translocate to the nucleus and activate or silence gene expression. Most immune cell types, including macrophages, dendritic cells (DCs), T and B lymphocytes and natural killer cells have the capacity to produce and respond to activin-A, although not in a similar manner. In innate immune cells, including macrophages, DCs and neutrophils, activin-A exerts a broad range of pro- or anti-inflammatory functions depending on the cell maturation and activation status and the spatiotemporal context. Activin-A also controls the differentiation and effector functions of Th cell subsets, including Th9 cells, TFH cells, Tr1 Treg cells and Foxp3+ Treg cells. Moreover, activin-A affects B cell responses, enhancing mucosal IgA secretion and inhibiting pathogenic autoantibody production. Interestingly, an array of preclinical and clinical studies has highlighted crucial functions of activin-A in the initiation, propagation and resolution of human diseases, including autoimmune diseases, such as, systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis and pulmonary alveolar proteinosis, in allergic disorders, including allergic asthma and atopic dermatitis, in cancer and in microbial infections. Here, we provide an overview of the biology of activin-A and its signaling pathways, summarize recent studies pertinent to the role of activin-A in the modulation of inflammation and immunity, and discuss the potential of targeting activin-A as a novel therapeutic approach for the control of inflammatory diseases.
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21
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Cui X, Shang S, Lv X, Zhao J, Qi Y, Liu Z. Perspectives of small molecule inhibitors of activin receptor‑like kinase in anti‑tumor treatment and stem cell differentiation (Review). Mol Med Rep 2019; 19:5053-5062. [PMID: 31059090 PMCID: PMC6522871 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2019.10209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2018] [Accepted: 03/21/2019] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Activin receptor‑like kinases (ALKs), members of the type I activin receptor family, belong to the serine/threonine kinase receptors of the transforming growth factor‑β (TGF‑β) superfamily. ALKs mediate the roles of activin/TGF‑β in a wide variety of physiological and pathological processes, ranging from cell differentiation and proliferation to apoptosis. For example, the activities of ALKs are associated with an advanced tumor stage in prostate cancer and the chondrogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells. Therefore, potent and selective small molecule inhibitors of ALKs would not only aid in investigating the function of activin/TGF‑β, but also in developing treatments for these diseases via the disruption of activin/TGF‑β. In recent studies, several ALK inhibitors, including LY‑2157299, SB‑431542 and A‑83‑01, have been identified and have been confirmed to affect stem cell differentiation and tumor progression in animal models. This review discusses the therapeutic perspective of small molecule inhibitors of ALKs as drug targets in tumor and stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueling Cui
- Department of Genetics, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
| | - Shumi Shang
- Department of Genetics, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
| | - Xinran Lv
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
| | - Jing Zhao
- Department of Genetics, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
| | - Yan Qi
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
| | - Zhonghui Liu
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
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22
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Activin A regulates activities of peripheral blood natural killer cells of mouse in an autocrine and paracrine manner. Exp Cell Res 2019; 374:114-121. [DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2018.11.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2018] [Revised: 11/16/2018] [Accepted: 11/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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23
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Smith CK, Trinchieri G. The interplay between neutrophils and microbiota in cancer. J Leukoc Biol 2018; 104:701-715. [PMID: 30044897 DOI: 10.1002/jlb.4ri0418-151r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2018] [Revised: 06/11/2018] [Accepted: 06/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The role of the microbiota in many diseases including cancer has gained increasing attention. Paired with this is our expanding appreciation for the heterogeneity of the neutrophil compartment regarding surface marker expression and functionality. In this review, we will discuss the influence of the microbiota on granulopoiesis and consequent activity of neutrophils in cancer. As evidence for this microbiota-neutrophil-cancer axis builds, it exposes new therapeutic targets to improve a cancer patient's outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolyne K Smith
- Cancer and Inflammation Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Giorgio Trinchieri
- Cancer and Inflammation Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
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