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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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2
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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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3
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Zhang X, Zhang X, Huang W, Ge X. The role of heat shock proteins in the regulation of fibrotic diseases. Biomed Pharmacother 2020; 135:111067. [PMID: 33383375 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2020.111067] [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: 08/18/2020] [Revised: 11/08/2020] [Accepted: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Heat shock proteins (HSPs) are key players to restore cell homeostasis and act as chaperones by assisting the folding and assembly of newly synthesized proteins and preventing protein aggregation. Recently, evidence has been accumulating that HSPs have been proven to have other functions except for the classical molecular chaperoning in that they play an important role in a wider range of fibrotic diseases via modulating cytokine induction and inflammation response, including lung fibrosis, liver fibrosis, and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. The recruitment of inflammatory cells, a large number of secretion of pro-fibrotic cytokines such as transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) and increased apoptosis, oxidative stress, and proteasomal system degradation are all events occurring during fibrogenesis, which might be associated with HSPs. However, their role on fibrotic process is not yet fully understood. In this review, we discuss new discoveries regarding the involvement of HSPs in the regulation of organ and tissue fibrosis, and note recent findings suggesting that HSPs may be a promising therapeutic target for improving the current frustrating outcome of fibrotic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoling Zhang
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225001, PR China; School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, 19 Qixiu Road, Nantong, 226019, PR China.
| | - Xiaoyan Zhang
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225001, PR China
| | - Wenmin Huang
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225001, PR China
| | - Xiaoqun Ge
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225001, PR China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine for Prevention and Treatment of Senile Diseases, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225001, PR China; Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for the Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, PR China.
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4
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Hrenak J, Simko F. Renin-Angiotensin System: An Important Player in the Pathogenesis of Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21218038. [PMID: 33126657 PMCID: PMC7663767 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21218038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2020] [Revised: 10/24/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is characterized by massive inflammation, increased vascular permeability and pulmonary edema. Mortality due to ARDS remains very high and even in the case of survival, acute lung injury can lead to pulmonary fibrosis. The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) plays a significant role in these processes. The activities of RAS molecules are subject to dynamic changes in response to an injury. Initially, increased levels of angiotensin (Ang) II and des-Arg9-bradykinin (DABK), are necessary for an effective defense. Later, augmented angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) 2 activity supposedly helps to attenuate inflammation. Appropriate ACE2 activity might be decisive in preventing immune-induced damage and ensuring tissue repair. ACE2 has been identified as a common target for different pathogens. Some Coronaviruses, including SARS-CoV-2, also use ACE2 to infiltrate the cells. A number of questions remain unresolved. The importance of ACE2 shedding, associated with the release of soluble ACE2 and ADAM17-mediated activation of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α)-signaling is unclear. The roles of other non-classical RAS-associated molecules, e.g., alamandine, Ang A or Ang 1-9, also deserve attention. In addition, the impact of established RAS-inhibiting drugs on the pulmonary RAS is to be elucidated. The unfavorable prognosis of ARDS and the lack of effective treatment urge the search for novel therapeutic strategies. In the context of the ongoing SARS-CoV-2 pandemic and considering the involvement of humoral disbalance in the pathogenesis of ARDS, targeting the renin-angiotensin system and reducing the pathogen's cell entry could be a promising therapeutic strategy in the struggle against COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaroslav Hrenak
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Inselspital – University Hospital of Bern, Freiburgstrasse 18, 3010 Bern, Switzerland;
- Institute of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University, Sasinkova 4, 811 08 Bratislava, Slovak
| | - Fedor Simko
- Institute of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University, Sasinkova 4, 811 08 Bratislava, Slovak
- 3rd Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University, Limbova 5, 833 05 Bratislava, Slovak
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology, Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dúbravská cesta 9, 845 05 Bratislava, Slovak
- Correspondence:
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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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6
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Kim H, Park SH, Han SY, Lee YS, Cho J, Kim JM. LXA 4-FPR2 signaling regulates radiation-induced pulmonary fibrosis via crosstalk with TGF-β/Smad signaling. Cell Death Dis 2020; 11:653. [PMID: 32811815 PMCID: PMC7434774 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-020-02846-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2020] [Revised: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Radiation therapy is an important modality in the treatment of lung cancer, but it can lead to radiation pneumonitis, and eventually radiation fibrosis. To date, only few available drugs can effectively manage radiation-induced pulmonary fibrosis. Lipoxins are endogenous molecules exhibit anti-inflammatory and pro-resolving effects. These molecules play a vital role in reducing excessive tissue injury and chronic inflammation; however, their effects on radiation-induced lung injury (RILI) are unknown. In this study, we investigated the effects of lipoxin A4 (LXA4) on RILI using our specialized small-animal model of RILI following focal-ablative lung irradiation (IR). LXA4 significantly inhibited immune-cell recruitment and reduced IR-induced expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and fibrotic proteins in the lung lesion sites. In addition, micro-CT revealed that LXA4 reduced IR-induced increases in lung consolidation volume. The flexiVentTM assays showed that LXA4 significantly reversed IR-induced lung function damage. Moreover, LXA4 downregulated the activities of NF-κB and the Smad-binding element promoters. The expression of FPR2, an LXA4 receptor, increased during the development of IR-induced pulmonary fibrosis, whereas silencing of endogenous LXA4 using an antagonist (WRW4) or FPR2 siRNA resulted in impaired development of pulmonary fibrosis in response to IR. Collectively, these data suggest that LXA4 could serve as a potent therapeutic agent for alleviating RILI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyunjung Kim
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Sung-Hyo Park
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Song Yee Han
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Yun-Sil Lee
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jaeho Cho
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea.
| | - Jin-Mo Kim
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea. .,Department of Manufacturing Pharmacy, Natural Product Research Institute, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea.
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7
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Zhang B, Xu H, Zhang Y, Yi X, Zhang G, Zhang X, Xu D, Gao X, Li S, Zhu Y, Zhang H, Wei Z, Li S, Zhang L, Wang R, Yang F. Targeting the RAS axis alleviates silicotic fibrosis and Ang II-induced myofibroblast differentiation via inhibition of the hedgehog signaling pathway. Toxicol Lett 2019; 313:30-41. [PMID: 31181250 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2019.05.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2019] [Revised: 05/22/2019] [Accepted: 05/31/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
The hedgehog (HH) signaling pathway plays an important role in lung development, but its significance in silicosis is unclear. We showed that in human coal pneumoconiosis autopsy specimens, Sonic Hedgehog (SHH) and the Glioma-associated oncogene homolog transcription factors family (GLI) 1 proteins were up-regulated, whereas Patch-1 (PTC) was down-regulated. The protein levels of SHH, smoothened (SMO), GLI1, GLI2, α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and collagen type Ⅰ (Col Ⅰ) were also elevated gradually in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) of different stages of coal pneumoconiosis patients, dynamic silica-inhalation rat lung tissue and MRC-5 cells induced by Ang II at different time points, whereas the PTC and GLI3 levels were diminished gradually. Ac-SDKP, an active peptide of renin-angiotensin system (RAS), is an anti-fibrotic tetrapeptide. Targeting RAS axis also has anti-silicotic fibrosis effects. However, their roles on the HH pathway are still unknown. Here, we reported that Ac-SDKP + Captopril, Ac-SDKP, Captopril, or Ang (1-7) could alleviate silicotic fibrosis and collagen deposition, as well as improve the lung functions of silicotic rat. These treatments decreased the expression of SHH, SMO, GLI1, GLI2, α-SMA, and Col Ⅰ and increased the expression of PTC and GLI3 on both the silicotic rat lung tissue and MRC-5 cells induced by Ang II. We also reported that Ang II may promote myofibroblast differentiation via the GLI1 transcription factor and independently of the SMO receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bonan Zhang
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China; Hebei Key Laboratory for Chronic Diseases, Tangshan Key Laboratory for Clinical and Basic Research on Chronic Diseases, School of Basic Medical Sciences, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China; Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis, Medical Research Center, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Hong Xu
- Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis, Medical Research Center, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Clinical Medical College, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Xue Yi
- Key Laboratory of Functional and Clinical Translational Medicine, Fujian Province University, Department of Basic Medicine, Xiamen Medical College, Xiamen, China
| | - Guizhen Zhang
- Hebei Key Laboratory for Chronic Diseases, Tangshan Key Laboratory for Clinical and Basic Research on Chronic Diseases, School of Basic Medical Sciences, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China; Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis, Medical Research Center, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis, Medical Research Center, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Dingjie Xu
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Xuemin Gao
- Basic Medical College, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Shifeng Li
- Basic Medical College, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Ying Zhu
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China; Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis, Medical Research Center, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Hui Zhang
- Hebei Key Laboratory for Chronic Diseases, Tangshan Key Laboratory for Clinical and Basic Research on Chronic Diseases, School of Basic Medical Sciences, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China; Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis, Medical Research Center, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Zhongqiu Wei
- Hebei Key Laboratory for Chronic Diseases, Tangshan Key Laboratory for Clinical and Basic Research on Chronic Diseases, School of Basic Medical Sciences, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China; Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis, Medical Research Center, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Shumin Li
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China; Hebei Key Laboratory for Chronic Diseases, Tangshan Key Laboratory for Clinical and Basic Research on Chronic Diseases, School of Basic Medical Sciences, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China; Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis, Medical Research Center, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Lijuan Zhang
- Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis, Medical Research Center, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Ruimin Wang
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China; Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis, Medical Research Center, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Fang Yang
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China; Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis, Medical Research Center, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China.
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8
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Shifeng L, Hong X, Xue Y, Siyu N, Qiaodan Z, Dingjie X, Lijuan Z, Zhongqiu W, Xuemin G, Wenchen C, Guizhen Z, Dan L, Ruimin W, Fang Y. Ac-SDKP increases α-TAT 1 and promotes the apoptosis in lung fibroblasts and epithelial cells double-stimulated with TGF-β1 and silica. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2019; 369:17-29. [PMID: 30826375 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2019.02.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2018] [Revised: 02/24/2019] [Accepted: 02/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Crystalline silica (SiO2) particles have very strong toxicity to the lungs, and silicosis is an excessive pulmonary interstitial remodeling disease that follows persistent SiO2 injury. We showed here that DNA double strand breaks (DSBs) and apoptosis were aggravated during rat silicosis induced by SiO2 exposure. Ac-SDKP attenuates lung parenchymal distortion and collagen deposition, and decreases the expression of γH2AX, p21, and cleaved caspase-3, as well as improves the reduction of pulmonary function caused by silicosis. In vitro, we found an evolution of smooth muscle actin α (α-SMA), collagen type I (Col I) in both A549 and MRC-5 cells in response to transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1) + SiO2. Only A549 cells showed any reduction in the rate of apoptosis induced by the double stimulation, because of the anti-apoptotic effects of TGF-β1. N-acetyl-seryl-aspartyl-lysyl-proline (Ac-SDKP) is an anti-fibrotic tetrapeptide. It also has the ability to promote the apoptosis of leukemia cells. However its role in promoting cell apoptosis in silicosis is still unknown. We here found that Ac-SDKP could induce cell apoptosis and inhibit fibrotic response in A549 and MRC-5 cells treated with TGF-β1 + SiO2, and these effects depended on regulation of α-tubulin acetyltransferase 1 (α-TAT1). These findings suggest that Ac-SDKP may have therapeutic value in the treatment of silicotic fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Shifeng
- Basic Medical College, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Xu Hong
- Medical Research Center, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Yi Xue
- Key Laboratory of Functional and Clinical Translational Medicine, Fujian Province University, Department of Basic Medicine, Xiamen Medical College, Xiamen, China
| | - Niu Siyu
- Medical Research Center, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Zhang Qiaodan
- Medical Research Center, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Xu Dingjie
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Zhang Lijuan
- Medical Research Center, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Wei Zhongqiu
- Basic Medicine College, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Gao Xuemin
- Basic Medical College, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Cai Wenchen
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Zhang Guizhen
- Medical Research Center, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Li Dan
- Medical Research Center, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Wang Ruimin
- Medical Research Center, Hebei Key Laboratory for Organ Fibrosis Research, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Yang Fang
- Basic Medical College, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China.
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9
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Zhang L, Xu D, Li Q, Yang Y, Xu H, Wei Z, Wang R, Zhang W, Liu Y, Geng Y, Li S, Gao X, Yang F. N-acetyl-seryl-aspartyl-lysyl-proline (Ac-SDKP) attenuates silicotic fibrosis by suppressing apoptosis of alveolar type II epithelial cells via mediation of endoplasmic reticulum stress. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2018; 350:1-10. [PMID: 29684394 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2018.04.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2018] [Revised: 04/15/2018] [Accepted: 04/18/2018] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Damage to alveolar epithelial cells (AECs) caused by long-term inhalation of large amounts of silica dust plays a significant role in the pathology of silicosis. The present study was undertaken to investigate the regulatory mechanism(s) involved in type II AEC damage from silicon dioxide (SiO2) as well as the mechanism(s) related to the prevention of silicosis by the antifibrotic tetra peptide, N-acetyl-seryl-aspartyl-lysyl-proline (Ac-SDKP). The 2-DE results showed that SiO2 induced endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in A549 cells. In addition, typical apoptotic characteristics were observed using a transmission electron microscope (TEM) in A549 cells stimulated by SiO2 and in type II AECs from silicotic rats. Mechanistic study showed that both Ac-SDKP and 4-phenylbutyrate (4-PBA), an inhibiter of ER stress, attenuated GRP78, phosphor-PERK, phosphor-eIF2α, CHOP and Caspase-12 protein expression in A549 cells stimulated by SiO2 and in type II AECs from silicotic rats. Treatment with Ac-SDKP and 4-PBA in vivo effectively inhibited collagen deposition in the lungs of silicotic rats. In summary, ER stress is involved in the apoptosis of type II AECs both in vitro and in vivo. Ac-SDKP effectively suppresses SiO2-induced apoptosis in type II AECs by attenuating the Caspase-12 and PERK/eIF2α/CHOP pathway activation caused by ER stress, thus preventing silicotic fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lijuan Zhang
- Basic Medical College, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050017, China
| | - Dingjie Xu
- Traditional Chinese Medicine College, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, China
| | - Qian Li
- Medical Research Center, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, China
| | - Yi Yang
- Department of educational affairs, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, China
| | - Hong Xu
- Medical Research Center, 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
| | - Ruimin Wang
- Medical Research Center, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, China
| | - Wenli Zhang
- Medical Research Center, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, China
| | - Yan Liu
- Basic Medical College, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, China
| | - Yucong Geng
- Medical Research Center, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, China
| | - Shifeng Li
- Medical Research Center, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, China
| | - Xuemin Gao
- Medical Research Center, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, China
| | - Fang Yang
- Basic Medical College, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050017, China; Medical Research Center, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, China.
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10
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Deng H, Gao X, Peng H, Wang J, Hou X, Xu H, Yang F. Effect of liposome‑mediated HSP27 transfection on collagen synthesis in alveolar type II epithelial cells. Mol Med Rep 2018; 17:7319-7324. [PMID: 29568951 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2018.8744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2017] [Accepted: 01/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
To investigate the effect of liposome Lipofectamine® 2000‑mediated HSP27 plasmid transfection in A549 human alveolar type II epithelial cell line on collagen synthesis during transforming growth factor‑β1 (TGF‑β1)‑induced type II epithelial cell transition to myofibroblasts. Cells were transfected with varying ratios of the Lipofectamine® 2000‑mediated heat shock protein 27 (HSP27) plasmid and the transfection efficiency was determined using flow cytometry. The maximum transfection efficacy was confirmed by laser confocal microscopy. HSP gene expression and the most efficient HSP27 plasmid were determined using reverse transcription‑quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Western blot analysis was used to examine HSP27 and collagen expression levels. With a transfection efficiency of 83%, the 8 µg:20 µl ratio of liposome: Plasmid had the highest transfection levels. Among the four different interference sequences in the HSP27 plasmid, the D sequence had the highest interference effect with 70% silencing of the HSP27 gene. The expression of type I and III collagen in TGF‑β1‑induced transition of A549 human alveolar type II epithelial cell line to myofibroblasts was significantly downregulated by the successful transfection with HSP27‑interfering plasmid. The expression of type I and III collagen in the TGF‑β1‑induced transition of A549 cells to myofibroblasts was significantly downregulated by transfection of A549 cells with HSP27 plasmid D‑interfering sequence and optimal ratio of Lipofectamine® 2000 and HSP27 plasmid.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haijing Deng
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, P.R. China
| | - Xuemin Gao
- International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Geriatric Medicine, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, P.R. China
| | - Haibing Peng
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, P.R. China
| | - Jin Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoli Hou
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, P.R. China
| | - Hong Xu
- International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Geriatric Medicine, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, P.R. China
| | - Fang Yang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei 063210, P.R. China
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11
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Conte E, Fagone E, Gili E, Fruciano M, Iemmolo M, Pistorio MP, Impellizzeri D, Cordaro M, Cuzzocrea S, Vancheri C. Preventive and therapeutic effects of thymosin β4 N-terminal fragment Ac-SDKP in the bleomycin model of pulmonary fibrosis. Oncotarget 2017; 7:33841-54. [PMID: 27029074 PMCID: PMC5085123 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.8409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2016] [Accepted: 03/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
In this study, the bleomycin model of pulmonary fibrosis was utilized to investigate putative anti-fibrotic activity of Ac-SDKP in vivo. Male CD-1 mice received intra-tracheal bleomycin (BLEO, 1 mg/kg) instillation in the absence or presence of Ac-SDKP (a dose of 0.6 mg/kg delivered intra-peritoneally on the day of BLEO treatment, d0, followed by bi-weekly additional doses). To evaluate therapeutic effects in a subset of mice, Ac-SDKP was administered one week after BLEO instillation (d7). Animals were sacrificed at one, two, or three weeks later. Measurement of fluid and collagen content in the lung, Broncho Alveolar Lavage Fluid (BALF) analysis, lung histology, immunohistochemistry (IHC), and molecular analysis were performed. Compared to BLEO-treated mice, animals that received also Ac-SDKP (at both d0 and d7) had significantly decreased mortality, weight loss, inflammation (edema, and leukocyte lung infiltration), lung damage (histological evidence of lung injury), and fibrosis (collagen histological staining and soluble collagen content in the lung) at up to 21 days. Moreover, IHC and quantitative RT-PCR results demonstrated a significant decrease in BLEO-induced IL-17 and TGF-β expression in lung tissue. Importantly, α-SMA expression, the hallmark of myofibroblast differentiation, was also decreased. This is the first report showing not only a preventive protective role of Ac-SDKP but also its significant therapeutic effects in the bleomycin model of pulmonary fibrosis, thus supporting further preclinical and clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrico Conte
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95124 Catania, Italy
| | - Evelina Fagone
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95124 Catania, Italy
| | - Elisa Gili
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95124 Catania, Italy
| | - Mary Fruciano
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95124 Catania, Italy
| | - Maria Iemmolo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95124 Catania, Italy
| | | | - Daniela Impellizzeri
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine and Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Messina, 98166 Messina, Italy
| | - Marika Cordaro
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine and Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Messina, 98166 Messina, Italy
| | - Salvatore Cuzzocrea
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine and Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Messina, 98166 Messina, Italy
| | - Carlo Vancheri
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95124 Catania, Italy
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12
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Abstract
The significant parallels between cell plasticity during embryonic development and carcinoma progression have helped us understand the importance of the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in human disease. Our expanding knowledge of EMT has led to a clarification of the EMT program as a set of multiple and dynamic transitional states between the epithelial and mesenchymal phenotypes, as opposed to a process involving a single binary decision. EMT and its intermediate states have recently been identified as crucial drivers of organ fibrosis and tumor progression, although there is some need for caution when interpreting its contribution to metastatic colonization. Here, we discuss the current state-of-the-art and latest findings regarding the concept of cellular plasticity and heterogeneity in EMT. We raise some of the questions pending and identify the challenges faced in this fast-moving field.
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13
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Deng H, Xu H, Zhang X, Sun Y, Wang R, Brann D, Yang F. Protective effect of Ac-SDKP on alveolar epithelial cells through inhibition of EMT via TGF-β1/ROCK1 pathway in silicosis in rat. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2016; 294:1-10. [PMID: 26785300 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2016.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2015] [Revised: 01/12/2016] [Accepted: 01/14/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a critical stage during the development of silicosis fibrosis. In the current study, we hypothesized that the anti-fibrotic tetrapeptide, N-acetyl-seryl-aspartyl-lysyl-proline (Ac-SDKP) may exert its anti-fibrotic effects via activation of the TGF-β1/ROCK1 pathway, leading to inhibition of EMT. To address this hypothesis, we first examined the effect of Ac-SDKP upon EMT using an in vivo rat silicosis model, as well as in an in vitro model of TGF-β1-induced EMT. Confocal laser scanning microscopy was used to examine colocalization of surfactant protein A (SP-A), fibroblast specific protein-1 (FSP-1) and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) in vivo. Western blot analysis was used to examine for changes in the protein levels of E-cadherin (E-cad) and SP-A (epithelial cell markers), vimentin (mesenchymal cell marker), α-SMA (active myofibroblast marker), and collagen I and III in both in vivo and in vitro experiments. Secondly, we utilized Western blot analysis and confocal laser scanning microscopy to examine the protein expression of TGF-β1 and ROCK1 in in vivo and in vitro studies. The results revealed that Ac-SDKP treatment prevented increases in the expression of mesenchymal markers as well as TGF-β1, ROCK1, collagen I and III. Furthermore, Ac-SDKP treatment prevented decreases in the expression of epithelial cell markers in both in vivo and in vitro experiments. Based on the results, we conclude that Ac-SDKP inhibits the transition of epithelial cell-myofibroblast in silicosis via activation of the TGF-β1/ROCK1 signaling pathway, which may serve as a novel mechanism by which it exerts its anti-fibrosis properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haijing Deng
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Hong Xu
- Medical Research Center, International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Geriatric Medicine, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Xianghong Zhang
- Pathology Department, Hebei Medical University, Shi Jiazhuang, China
| | - Yue Sun
- Medical Research Center, International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Geriatric Medicine, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Ruimin Wang
- Medical Research Center, International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Geriatric Medicine, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Darrell Brann
- Department of Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Fang Yang
- Medical Research Center, International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Geriatric Medicine, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China.
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14
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Abstract
Acute Kawasaki disease (KD) is diagnosed and treated by pediatricians, but decades later, these individuals are presenting to adult cardiologists with a variety of cardiovascular sequelae, including myocardial ischemia and infarction, congestive heart failure secondary to myocardial fibrosis, and claudication because of vascular insufficiency from thrombosed peripheral arteries. There are no clinical trials to guide management, interventions, and medical therapy in this patient population. This review summarizes the emerging information regarding evaluation of the cardiovascular status of adults decades after childhood KD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lori B Daniels
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego
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15
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Numano F, Shimizu C, Jimenez-Fernandez S, Vejar M, Oharaseki T, Takahashi K, Salgado A, Tremoulet AH, Gordon JB, Burns JC, Daniels LB. Galectin-3 is a marker of myocardial and vascular fibrosis in Kawasaki disease patients with giant aneurysms. Int J Cardiol 2015; 201:429-37. [PMID: 26313861 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2015.07.063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2015] [Revised: 07/14/2015] [Accepted: 07/20/2015] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUNDS Galectin-3 (Gal-3) is a multifunctional matricellular protein associated with heart failure and cardiovascular events. Gal-3 is required for transforming growth factor-β pathway-mediated myofibroblast activation that is a key process in coronary artery aneurysm formation in Kawasaki Disease (KD). Autopsies from young adults late after KD onset (AKD) have demonstrated bridging fibrosis throughout the myocardium and arteries. In this study, we postulated that Gal-3 may participate in the pathogenesis of myocardial and vascular fibrosis and the remodeling of coronary artery aneurysms following acute KD. METHODS AND RESULTS We measured plasma Gal-3 levels in 63 pediatric KD (PKD) and 81 AKD subjects. AKD subjects with giant aneurysms had significantly higher Gal-3 levels compared to the other adult groups (all p<0.05). All PKD groups had significantly higher Gal-3 levels than pediatric healthy controls (HC) (all p<0.05). Histological and immunohistochemical staining was performed on tissues from 10 KD autopsies and one explanted heart. Gal-3 positive staining was detected associated with acute inflammation and in spindle-shaped cells in the myocardium and arterial wall in KD subjects with giant aneurysms. CONCLUSIONS AKD subjects with giant aneurysms and PKD subjects had significantly higher plasma Gal-3 levels than HC and Gal-3 expression was increased in the myocardium of KD subjects who died with either acute inflammation or marked myocardial fibrosis. Gal-3 may be a clinically useful biomarker that identifies a subset of KD patients at highest risk of myocardial and vascular fibrosis, and may be an attractive therapeutic target to prevent myocardial dysfunction in this subset.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fujito Numano
- Departments of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, USA.
| | - Chisato Shimizu
- Departments of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, USA
| | | | - Matthew Vejar
- Departments of Medicine, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, USA
| | - Toshiaki Oharaseki
- Toho University Ohashi Medical Center, Department of Pathology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kei Takahashi
- Toho University Ohashi Medical Center, Department of Pathology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Andrea Salgado
- Departments of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, USA
| | - Adriana H Tremoulet
- Departments of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, USA; Rady Children's Hospital San Diego, USA
| | - John B Gordon
- San Diego Cardiac Center and Sharp Memorial Hospital, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Jane C Burns
- Departments of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, USA; Rady Children's Hospital San Diego, USA
| | - Lori B Daniels
- Departments of Medicine, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, USA
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16
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Ren ZX, Yu HB, Li JS, Shen JL, Du WS. Suitable parameter choice on quantitative morphology of A549 cell in epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Biosci Rep 2015; 35:e00202. [PMID: 26182364 PMCID: PMC4613694 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20150070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2015] [Revised: 04/07/2015] [Accepted: 04/20/2015] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Evaluation of morphological changes in cells is an integral part of study on epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), however, only a few papers reported the changes in quantitative parameters and no article compared different parameters for demanding better parameters. In the study, the purpose was to investigate suitable parameters for quantitative evaluation of EMT morphological changes. A549 human lung adenocarcinoma cell line was selected for the study. Some cells were stimulated by transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) for EMT, and other cells were as control without TGF-β1 stimulation. Subsequently, cells were placed in phase contrast microscope and three arbitrary fields were captured and saved with a personal computer. Using the tools of Photoshop software, some cells in an image were selected, segmented out and exchanged into unique hue, and other part in the image was shifted into another unique hue. The cells were calculated with 29 morphological parameters by Image Pro Plus software. A parameter between cells with or without TGF-β1 stimulation was compared statistically and nine parameters were significantly different between them. Receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC curve) of a parameter was described with SPSS software and F-test was used to compare two areas under the curves (AUCs) in Excel. Among them, roundness and radius ratio were the most AUCs and were significant higher than the other parameters. The results provided a new method with quantitative assessment of cell morphology during EMT, and found out two parameters, roundness and radius ratio, as suitable for quantification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhou-Xin Ren
- Institute of Gerontology, Henan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Longzihu University Park, Zhengzhou, Henan 450046, China
| | - Hai-Bin Yu
- First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, Henan 450000, China
| | - Jian-Sheng Li
- Institute of Gerontology, Henan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Longzihu University Park, Zhengzhou, Henan 450046, China
| | - Jun-Ling Shen
- First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, Henan 450000, China
| | - Wen-Sen Du
- Affiliated Hospital of Henan Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, Henan 450004, China
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