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Saha S, Perrin L, Röder L, Brun C, Spinelli L. Epi-MEIF: detecting higher order epistatic interactions for complex traits using mixed effect conditional inference forests. Nucleic Acids Res 2022; 50:e114. [PMID: 36107776 PMCID: PMC9639209 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkac715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding the relationship between genetic variations and variations in complex and quantitative phenotypes remains an ongoing challenge. While Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have become a vital tool for identifying single-locus associations, we lack methods for identifying epistatic interactions. In this article, we propose a novel method for higher-order epistasis detection using mixed effect conditional inference forest (epiMEIF). The proposed method is fitted on a group of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) potentially associated with the phenotype and the tree structure in the forest facilitates the identification of n-way interactions between the SNPs. Additional testing strategies further improve the robustness of the method. We demonstrate its ability to detect true n-way interactions via extensive simulations in both cross-sectional and longitudinal synthetic datasets. This is further illustrated in an application to reveal epistatic interactions from natural variations of cardiac traits in flies (Drosophila). Overall, the method provides a generalized way to identify higher-order interactions from any GWAS data, thereby greatly improving the detection of the genetic architecture underlying complex phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saswati Saha
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, TAGC (UMR1090), Turing Centre for Living systems , Marseille , France
| | - Laurent Perrin
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, TAGC (UMR1090), Turing Centre for Living systems , Marseille , France
- CNRS , Marseille , France
| | - Laurence Röder
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, TAGC (UMR1090), Turing Centre for Living systems , Marseille , France
| | - Christine Brun
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, TAGC (UMR1090), Turing Centre for Living systems , Marseille , France
- CNRS , Marseille , France
| | - Lionel Spinelli
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, TAGC (UMR1090), Turing Centre for Living systems , Marseille , France
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2
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Santos GL, DeGrave AN, Rehman A, Al Disi S, Xhaxho K, Schröder H, Bao G, Meyer T, Tiburcy M, Dworatzek E, Zimmermann WH, Lutz S. Using different geometries to modulate the cardiac fibroblast phenotype and the biomechanical properties of engineered connective tissues. BIOMATERIALS ADVANCES 2022; 139:213041. [PMID: 35909053 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioadv.2022.213041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Tissue engineering with human cardiac fibroblasts (CF) allows identifying novel mechanisms and anti-fibrotic drugs in the context of cardiac fibrosis. However, substantial knowledge on the influences of the used materials and tissue geometries on tissue properties and cell phenotypes is necessary to be able to choose an appropriate model for a specific research question. As there is a clear lack of information on how CF react to the mold architecture in engineered connective tissues (ECT), we first compared the effect of two mold geometries and materials with different hardnesses on the biomechanical properties of ECT. We could show that ECT, which formed around two distant poles (non-uniform model) were less stiff and more strain-resistant than ECT, which formed around a central rod (uniform model), independent of the materials used for poles and rods. Next, we investigated the cell state and could demonstrate that in the uniform versus non-uniform model, the embedded cells have a higher cell cycle activity and display a more pronounced myofibroblast phenotype. Differential gene expression analysis revealed that uniform ECT displayed a fibrosis-associated gene signature similar to the diseased heart. Furthermore, we were able to identify important relationships between cell and tissue characteristics, as well as between biomechanical tissue parameters by implementing cells from normal heart and end-stage heart failure explants from patients with ischemic or dilated cardiomyopathy. Finally, we show that the application of pro- and anti-fibrotic factors in the non-uniform and uniform model, respectively, is not sufficient to mimic the effect of the other geometry. Taken together, we demonstrate that modifying the mold geometry in tissue engineering with CF offers the possibility to compare different cellular phenotypes and biomechanical tissue properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela L Santos
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Medical Center Goettingen, Germany; Randall Centre for Cell and Molecular Biophysics, King's College London, London, UK; DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research) partner site, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Alisa N DeGrave
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Medical Center Goettingen, Germany; DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research) partner site, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Abdul Rehman
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Medical Center Goettingen, Germany; DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research) partner site, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Sara Al Disi
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Medical Center Goettingen, Germany
| | - Kristin Xhaxho
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Medical Center Goettingen, Germany
| | - Helen Schröder
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Medical Center Goettingen, Germany
| | - Guobin Bao
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Medical Center Goettingen, Germany; DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research) partner site, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Tim Meyer
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Medical Center Goettingen, Germany; DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research) partner site, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Malte Tiburcy
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Medical Center Goettingen, Germany; DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research) partner site, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Elke Dworatzek
- Charité - Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universitaet Berlin, and Berliner Institute of Health, Germany; DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research) partner site, Berlin, Germany
| | - Wolfram-Hubertus Zimmermann
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Medical Center Goettingen, Germany; DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research) partner site, Goettingen, Germany; Cluster of Excellence "Multiscale Bioimaging: from Molecular Machines to Networks of Excitable Cells" (MBExC), University of Goettingen, Germany; Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Germany; Fraunhofer Institute for Translational Medicine and Pharmacology (ITMP), Germany
| | - Susanne Lutz
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Medical Center Goettingen, Germany; DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research) partner site, Goettingen, Germany.
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3
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The Impact of microRNAs in Renin-Angiotensin-System-Induced Cardiac Remodelling. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22094762. [PMID: 33946230 PMCID: PMC8124994 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22094762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Revised: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Current knowledge on the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) indicates its central role in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular remodelling via both hemodynamic alterations and direct growth and the proliferation effects of angiotensin II or aldosterone resulting in the hypertrophy of cardiomyocytes, the proliferation of fibroblasts, and inflammatory immune cell activation. The noncoding regulatory microRNAs has recently emerged as a completely novel approach to the study of the RAS. A growing number of microRNAs serve as mediators and/or regulators of RAS-induced cardiac remodelling by directly targeting RAS enzymes, receptors, signalling molecules, or inhibitors of signalling pathways. Specifically, microRNAs that directly modulate pro-hypertrophic, pro-fibrotic and pro-inflammatory signalling initiated by angiotensin II receptor type 1 (AT1R) stimulation are of particular relevance in mediating the cardiovascular effects of the RAS. The aim of this review is to summarize the current knowledge in the field that is still in the early stage of preclinical investigation with occasionally conflicting reports. Understanding the big picture of microRNAs not only aids in the improved understanding of cardiac response to injury but also leads to better therapeutic strategies utilizing microRNAs as biomarkers, therapeutic agents and pharmacological targets.
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Weber P, Baltus D, Jatho A, Drews O, Zelarayan LC, Wieland T, Lutz S. RhoGEF17-An Essential Regulator of Endothelial Cell Death and Growth. Cells 2021; 10:cells10040741. [PMID: 33801779 PMCID: PMC8067313 DOI: 10.3390/cells10040741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Revised: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The Rho guanine nucleotide exchange factor RhoGEF17 was described to reside in adherens junctions (AJ) in endothelial cells (EC) and to play a critical role in the regulation of cell adhesion and barrier function. The purpose of this study was to analyze signal cascades and processes occurring subsequent to AJ disruption induced by RhoGEF17 knockdown. Primary human and immortalized rat EC were used to demonstrate that an adenoviral-mediated knockdown of RhoGEF17 resulted in cell rounding and an impairment in spheroid formation due to an enhanced proteasomal degradation of AJ components. In contrast, β-catenin degradation was impaired, which resulted in an induction of the β-catenin-target genes cyclin D1 and survivin. RhoGEF17 depletion additionally inhibited cell adhesion and sheet migration. The RhoGEF17 knockdown prevented the cells with impeded cell–cell and cell–matrix contacts from apoptosis, which was in line with a reduction in pro-caspase 3 expression and an increase in Akt phosphorylation. Nevertheless, the cells were not able to proliferate as a cell cycle block occurred. In summary, we demonstrate that a loss of RhoGEF17 disturbs cell–cell and cell–substrate interaction in EC. Moreover, it prevents the EC from cell death and blocks cell proliferation. Non-canonical β-catenin signaling and Akt activation could be identified as a potential mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamina Weber
- Experimental Pharmacology Mannheim (EPM), European Center for Angioscience (ECAS), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Ludolf-Krehl-Str. 13-17, 68167 Mannheim, Germany; (P.W.); (D.B.)
| | - Doris Baltus
- Experimental Pharmacology Mannheim (EPM), European Center for Angioscience (ECAS), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Ludolf-Krehl-Str. 13-17, 68167 Mannheim, Germany; (P.W.); (D.B.)
| | - Aline Jatho
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Robert-Koch-Strasse 40, 37075 Göttingen, Germany; (A.J.); (L.C.Z.)
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research) Partner Site Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Oliver Drews
- Institute for Clinical Chemistry, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167 Mannheim, Germany;
| | - Laura C. Zelarayan
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Robert-Koch-Strasse 40, 37075 Göttingen, Germany; (A.J.); (L.C.Z.)
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research) Partner Site Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Thomas Wieland
- Experimental Pharmacology Mannheim (EPM), European Center for Angioscience (ECAS), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Ludolf-Krehl-Str. 13-17, 68167 Mannheim, Germany; (P.W.); (D.B.)
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research) Partner Site Heidelberg/Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany
- Correspondence: (T.W.); (S.L.)
| | - Susanne Lutz
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Robert-Koch-Strasse 40, 37075 Göttingen, Germany; (A.J.); (L.C.Z.)
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research) Partner Site Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Correspondence: (T.W.); (S.L.)
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5
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Kittana N, Assali M, Zimmermann WH, Liaw N, Santos GL, Rehman A, Lutz S. Modulating the Biomechanical Properties of Engineered Connective Tissues by Chitosan-Coated Multiwall Carbon Nanotubes. Int J Nanomedicine 2021; 16:989-1000. [PMID: 33633447 PMCID: PMC7901244 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s289107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Under certain conditions, the physiological repair of connective tissues might fail to restore the original structure and function. Optimized engineered connective tissues (ECTs) with biophysical properties adapted to the target tissue could be used as a substitution therapy. This study aimed to investigate the effect of ECT enforcement by a complex of multiwall carbon nanotubes with chitosan (C-MWCNT) to meet in vivo demands. Materials and Methods ECTs were constructed from human foreskin fibroblasts (HFF-1) in collagen type I and enriched with the three different percentages 0.025, 0.05 and 0.1% of C-MWCNT. Characterization of the physical properties was performed by biomechanical studies using unidirectional strain. Results Supplementation with 0.025% C-MWCNT moderately increased the tissue stiffness, reflected by Young’s modulus, compared to tissues without C-MWCNT. Supplementation of ECTs with 0.1% C-MWCNT reduced tissue contraction and increased the elasticity and the extensibility, reflected by the yield point and ultimate strain, respectively. Consequently, the ECTs with 0.1% C-MWCNT showed a higher resilience and toughness as control tissues. Fluorescence tissue imaging demonstrated the longitudinal alignment of all cells independent of the condition. Conclusion Supplementation with C-MWCNT can enhance the biophysical properties of ECTs, which could be advantageous for applications in connective tissue repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naim Kittana
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Mohyeddin Assali
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Wolfram-Hubertus Zimmermann
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany.,DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research) Partner Site Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Norman Liaw
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany.,DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research) Partner Site Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Gabriela Leao Santos
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany.,DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research) Partner Site Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Abdul Rehman
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany.,DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research) Partner Site Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Susanne Lutz
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany.,DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research) Partner Site Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
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Abstract
Myocardial fibrosis, the expansion of the cardiac interstitium through deposition of extracellular matrix proteins, is a common pathophysiologic companion of many different myocardial conditions. Fibrosis may reflect activation of reparative or maladaptive processes. Activated fibroblasts and myofibroblasts are the central cellular effectors in cardiac fibrosis, serving as the main source of matrix proteins. Immune cells, vascular cells and cardiomyocytes may also acquire a fibrogenic phenotype under conditions of stress, activating fibroblast populations. Fibrogenic growth factors (such as transforming growth factor-β and platelet-derived growth factors), cytokines [including tumour necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-1, IL-6, IL-10, and IL-4], and neurohumoral pathways trigger fibrogenic signalling cascades through binding to surface receptors, and activation of downstream signalling cascades. In addition, matricellular macromolecules are deposited in the remodelling myocardium and regulate matrix assembly, while modulating signal transduction cascades and protease or growth factor activity. Cardiac fibroblasts can also sense mechanical stress through mechanosensitive receptors, ion channels and integrins, activating intracellular fibrogenic cascades that contribute to fibrosis in response to pressure overload. Although subpopulations of fibroblast-like cells may exert important protective actions in both reparative and interstitial/perivascular fibrosis, ultimately fibrotic changes perturb systolic and diastolic function, and may play an important role in the pathogenesis of arrhythmias. This review article discusses the molecular mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of cardiac fibrosis in various myocardial diseases, including myocardial infarction, heart failure with reduced or preserved ejection fraction, genetic cardiomyopathies, and diabetic heart disease. Development of fibrosis-targeting therapies for patients with myocardial diseases will require not only understanding of the functional pluralism of cardiac fibroblasts and dissection of the molecular basis for fibrotic remodelling, but also appreciation of the pathophysiologic heterogeneity of fibrosis-associated myocardial disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaos G Frangogiannis
- Department of Medicine (Cardiology), The Wilf Family Cardiovascular Research Institute, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 1300 Morris Park Avenue Forchheimer G46B, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
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Bretherton R, Bugg D, Olszewski E, Davis J. Regulators of cardiac fibroblast cell state. Matrix Biol 2020; 91-92:117-135. [PMID: 32416242 PMCID: PMC7789291 DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2020.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2019] [Revised: 03/13/2020] [Accepted: 04/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Fibroblasts are the primary regulator of cardiac extracellular matrix (ECM). In response to disease stimuli cardiac fibroblasts undergo cell state transitions to a myofibroblast phenotype, which underlies the fibrotic response in the heart and other organs. Identifying regulators of fibroblast state transitions would inform which pathways could be therapeutically modulated to tactically control maladaptive extracellular matrix remodeling. Indeed, a deeper understanding of fibroblast cell state and plasticity is necessary for controlling its fate for therapeutic benefit. p38 mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK), which is part of the noncanonical transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) pathway, is a central regulator of fibroblast to myofibroblast cell state transitions that is activated by chemical and mechanical stress signals. Fibroblast intrinsic signaling, local and global cardiac mechanics, and multicellular interactions individually and synergistically impact these state transitions and hence the ECM, which will be reviewed here in the context of cardiac fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ross Bretherton
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98105, United States
| | - Darrian Bugg
- Department of Pathology, University of Washington, 850 Republican, #343, Seattle, WA 98109, United States
| | - Emily Olszewski
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98105, United States
| | - Jennifer Davis
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98105, United States; Department of Pathology, University of Washington, 850 Republican, #343, Seattle, WA 98109, United States; Institute for Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, United States; Center for Cardiovascular Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, United States.
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8
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Dworatzek E, Mahmoodzadeh S, Schriever C, Kusumoto K, Kramer L, Santos G, Fliegner D, Leung YK, Ho SM, Zimmermann WH, Lutz S, Regitz-Zagrosek V. Sex-specific regulation of collagen I and III expression by 17β-Estradiol in cardiac fibroblasts: role of estrogen receptors. Cardiovasc Res 2020; 115:315-327. [PMID: 30016401 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvy185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2017] [Accepted: 07/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Aims Sex differences in cardiac fibrosis point to the regulatory role of 17β-Estradiol (E2) in cardiac fibroblasts (CF). We, therefore, asked whether male and female CF in rodent and human models are differentially susceptible to E2, and whether this is related to sex-specific activation of estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) and beta (ERβ). Methods and results In female rat CF (rCF), 24 h E2-treatment (10-8 M) led to a significant down-regulation of collagen I and III expression, whereas both collagens were up-regulated in male rCF. E2-induced sex-specific collagen regulation was also detected in human CF, indicating that this regulation is conserved across species. Using specific ERα- and ERβ-agonists (10-7 M) for 24 h, we identified ERα as repressive and ERβ as inducing factor in female and male rCF, respectively. In addition, E2-induced ERα phosphorylation at Ser118 only in female rCF, whereas Ser105 phosphorylation of ERβ was exclusively found in male rCF. Further, in female rCF we found both ER bound to the collagen I and III promoters using chromatin immunoprecipitation assays. In contrast, in male rCF only ERβ bound to both promoters. In engineered connective tissues (ECT) from rCF, collagen I and III mRNA were down-regulated in female ECT and up-regulated in male ECT by E2. This was accompanied by an impaired condensation of female ECT, whereas male ECT showed an increased condensation and stiffness upon E2-treatment, analysed by rheological measurements. Finally, we confirmed the E2-effect on both collagens in an in vivo mouse model with ovariectomy for E2 depletion, E2 substitution, and pressure overload by transverse aortic constriction. Conclusion The mechanism underlying the sex-specific regulation of collagen I and III in the heart appears to involve E2-mediated differential ERα and ERβ signaling in CFs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elke Dworatzek
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Institute of Gender in Medicine, Center for Cardiovascular Research, Berlin, Germany.,DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Shokoufeh Mahmoodzadeh
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,Max-Delbrueck-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, Berlin, Germany
| | - Cindy Schriever
- Max-Delbrueck-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, Berlin, Germany
| | - Kana Kusumoto
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Institute of Gender in Medicine, Center for Cardiovascular Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Lisa Kramer
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Institute of Gender in Medicine, Center for Cardiovascular Research, Berlin, Germany.,DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Gabriela Santos
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany.,DZHK, partner site Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | | | - Yuet-Kin Leung
- Division of Environmental Genetics and Molecular Toxicology, Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Shuk-Mei Ho
- Division of Environmental Genetics and Molecular Toxicology, Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Wolfram-Hubertus Zimmermann
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany.,DZHK, partner site Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Susanne Lutz
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany.,DZHK, partner site Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Vera Regitz-Zagrosek
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Institute of Gender in Medicine, Center for Cardiovascular Research, Berlin, Germany.,DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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9
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Santos GL, Hartmann S, Zimmermann WH, Ridley A, Lutz S. Inhibition of Rho-associated kinases suppresses cardiac myofibroblast function in engineered connective and heart muscle tissues. J Mol Cell Cardiol 2019; 134:13-28. [DOI: 10.1016/j.yjmcc.2019.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2018] [Revised: 06/01/2019] [Accepted: 06/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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10
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Aktories K, Gierschik P, Heringdorf DMZ, Schmidt M, Schultz G, Wieland T. cAMP guided his way: a life for G protein-mediated signal transduction and molecular pharmacology-tribute to Karl H. Jakobs. Naunyn Schmiedebergs Arch Pharmacol 2019; 392:887-911. [PMID: 31101932 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-019-01650-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2019] [Accepted: 04/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Karl H. Jakobs, former editor-in-chief of Naunyn-Schmiedeberg's Archives of Pharmacology and renowned molecular pharmacologist, passed away in April 2018. In this article, his scientific achievements regarding G protein-mediated signal transduction and regulation of canonical pathways are summarized. Particularly, the discovery of inhibitory G proteins for adenylyl cyclase, methods for the analysis of receptor-G protein interactions, GTP supply by nucleoside diphosphate kinases, mechanisms in phospholipase C and phospholipase D activity regulation, as well as the development of the concept of sphingosine-1-phosphate as extra- and intracellular messenger will presented. His seminal scientific and methodological contributions are put in a general and timely perspective to display and honor his outstanding input to the current knowledge in molecular pharmacology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klaus Aktories
- Institute for Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Albert Ludwigs University, 79104, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Peter Gierschik
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ulm University Medical Center, 89070, Ulm, Germany
| | - Dagmar Meyer Zu Heringdorf
- Institute of General Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Hospital Frankfurt am Main, Goethe University, 60590, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Martina Schmidt
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, University of Groningen, 9713AV, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Günter Schultz
- Department of Pharmacology, Charité University Medical Center Berlin, Campus Benjamin Franklin, 14195, Berlin, Germany
| | - Thomas Wieland
- Experimental Pharmacology Mannheim (EPM), European Center for Angioscience (ECAS), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Ludolf-Krehl-Str. 13 - 17, 68167, Mannheim, Germany.
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11
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Liu Y, Qi S, Meng L, Zhang L, Pang Y, Cui W, Du J, Li Z, Liu Q, Shang H, Liu C, Li F. GEFT aberrant expression in soft tissue sarcomas. Transl Cancer Res 2019; 8:141-149. [PMID: 35116743 PMCID: PMC8798328 DOI: 10.21037/tcr.2019.01.16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2018] [Accepted: 01/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Background Guanine nucleotide exchange factor T (GEFT) exhibits high amplification level using high-resolution array comparative genomic hybridization in rhabdomyosarcoma. The overexpression rate of GEFT protein is higher in rhabdomyosarcoma than in normal striated muscle tissues. This study evaluated the aberrant expression of GEFT in multiple subtypes of soft tissue sarcoma (STS) and compared the differences in clinical pathology, histological feature and expression levels of GEFT protein and mRNA between chromosomal translocation-associated sarcomas (CTAS) and non-chromosomal translocation-associated sarcomas (NCTAS). Methods GEFT protein expression was detected using immunohistochemistry (IHC) and tissue microarrays. Quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was used to detect the expression of GEFT mRNA. Results The rates of GEFT positive expression (196/219, 89.50%) and overexpression (113/219, 51.60%) were higher in multiple subtypes of STS than in normal striated muscle tissues. The rates of GEFT positive expression and overexpression in all subtypes of STS detected were significantly higher than that in the controls. No difference of GEFT expression was detected between CTAS and NCTAS. Conclusions The abnormal expression of GEFT exists in various subtypes of STS, which may play an important role in tumorigenesis of STS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Liu
- Department of Pathology, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi 832002, China
| | - Shengnan Qi
- Department of Pathology, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi 832002, China
| | - Lian Meng
- Department of Pathology, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi 832002, China
| | - Liang Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi 832002, China
| | - Yuwen Pang
- Department of Pathology, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi 832002, China
| | - Wenwen Cui
- Department of Pathology, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi 832002, China
| | - Juan Du
- Department of Pathology, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi 832002, China
| | - Zhenzhen Li
- Department of Pathology, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi 832002, China
| | - Qianqian Liu
- Department of Pathology, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi 832002, China
| | - Hao Shang
- Department of Pathology, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi 832002, China
| | - Chunxia Liu
- Department of Pathology, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi 832002, China
| | - Feng Li
- Department of Pathology, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi 832002, China.,Department of Pathology, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100020, China
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Forrester SJ, Booz GW, Sigmund CD, Coffman TM, Kawai T, Rizzo V, Scalia R, Eguchi S. Angiotensin II Signal Transduction: An Update on Mechanisms of Physiology and Pathophysiology. Physiol Rev 2018; 98:1627-1738. [PMID: 29873596 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00038.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 634] [Impact Index Per Article: 105.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system plays crucial roles in cardiovascular physiology and pathophysiology. However, many of the signaling mechanisms have been unclear. The angiotensin II (ANG II) type 1 receptor (AT1R) is believed to mediate most functions of ANG II in the system. AT1R utilizes various signal transduction cascades causing hypertension, cardiovascular remodeling, and end organ damage. Moreover, functional cross-talk between AT1R signaling pathways and other signaling pathways have been recognized. Accumulating evidence reveals the complexity of ANG II signal transduction in pathophysiology of the vasculature, heart, kidney, and brain, as well as several pathophysiological features, including inflammation, metabolic dysfunction, and aging. In this review, we provide a comprehensive update of the ANG II receptor signaling events and their functional significances for potential translation into therapeutic strategies. AT1R remains central to the system in mediating physiological and pathophysiological functions of ANG II, and participation of specific signaling pathways becomes much clearer. There are still certain limitations and many controversies, and several noteworthy new concepts require further support. However, it is expected that rigorous translational research of the ANG II signaling pathways including those in large animals and humans will contribute to establishing effective new therapies against various diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven J Forrester
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University , Philadelphia, Pennsylvania ; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center , Jackson, Mississippi ; Department of Pharmacology, Center for Hypertension Research, Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa , Iowa City, Iowa ; and Duke-NUS, Singapore and Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center , Durham, North Carolina
| | - George W Booz
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University , Philadelphia, Pennsylvania ; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center , Jackson, Mississippi ; Department of Pharmacology, Center for Hypertension Research, Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa , Iowa City, Iowa ; and Duke-NUS, Singapore and Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center , Durham, North Carolina
| | - Curt D Sigmund
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University , Philadelphia, Pennsylvania ; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center , Jackson, Mississippi ; Department of Pharmacology, Center for Hypertension Research, Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa , Iowa City, Iowa ; and Duke-NUS, Singapore and Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center , Durham, North Carolina
| | - Thomas M Coffman
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University , Philadelphia, Pennsylvania ; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center , Jackson, Mississippi ; Department of Pharmacology, Center for Hypertension Research, Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa , Iowa City, Iowa ; and Duke-NUS, Singapore and Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center , Durham, North Carolina
| | - Tatsuo Kawai
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University , Philadelphia, Pennsylvania ; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center , Jackson, Mississippi ; Department of Pharmacology, Center for Hypertension Research, Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa , Iowa City, Iowa ; and Duke-NUS, Singapore and Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center , Durham, North Carolina
| | - Victor Rizzo
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University , Philadelphia, Pennsylvania ; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center , Jackson, Mississippi ; Department of Pharmacology, Center for Hypertension Research, Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa , Iowa City, Iowa ; and Duke-NUS, Singapore and Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center , Durham, North Carolina
| | - Rosario Scalia
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University , Philadelphia, Pennsylvania ; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center , Jackson, Mississippi ; Department of Pharmacology, Center for Hypertension Research, Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa , Iowa City, Iowa ; and Duke-NUS, Singapore and Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center , Durham, North Carolina
| | - Satoru Eguchi
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University , Philadelphia, Pennsylvania ; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center , Jackson, Mississippi ; Department of Pharmacology, Center for Hypertension Research, Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa , Iowa City, Iowa ; and Duke-NUS, Singapore and Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center , Durham, North Carolina
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13
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Frangogiannis NG. Cardiac fibrosis: Cell biological mechanisms, molecular pathways and therapeutic opportunities. Mol Aspects Med 2018; 65:70-99. [PMID: 30056242 DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2018.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 501] [Impact Index Per Article: 83.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2018] [Accepted: 07/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Cardiac fibrosis is a common pathophysiologic companion of most myocardial diseases, and is associated with systolic and diastolic dysfunction, arrhythmogenesis, and adverse outcome. Because the adult mammalian heart has negligible regenerative capacity, death of a large number of cardiomyocytes results in reparative fibrosis, a process that is critical for preservation of the structural integrity of the infarcted ventricle. On the other hand, pathophysiologic stimuli, such as pressure overload, volume overload, metabolic dysfunction, and aging may cause interstitial and perivascular fibrosis in the absence of infarction. Activated myofibroblasts are the main effector cells in cardiac fibrosis; their expansion following myocardial injury is primarily driven through activation of resident interstitial cell populations. Several other cell types, including cardiomyocytes, endothelial cells, pericytes, macrophages, lymphocytes and mast cells may contribute to the fibrotic process, by producing proteases that participate in matrix metabolism, by secreting fibrogenic mediators and matricellular proteins, or by exerting contact-dependent actions on fibroblast phenotype. The mechanisms of induction of fibrogenic signals are dependent on the type of primary myocardial injury. Activation of neurohumoral pathways stimulates fibroblasts both directly, and through effects on immune cell populations. Cytokines and growth factors, such as Tumor Necrosis Factor-α, Interleukin (IL)-1, IL-10, chemokines, members of the Transforming Growth Factor-β family, IL-11, and Platelet-Derived Growth Factors are secreted in the cardiac interstitium and play distinct roles in activating specific aspects of the fibrotic response. Secreted fibrogenic mediators and matricellular proteins bind to cell surface receptors in fibroblasts, such as cytokine receptors, integrins, syndecans and CD44, and transduce intracellular signaling cascades that regulate genes involved in synthesis, processing and metabolism of the extracellular matrix. Endogenous pathways involved in negative regulation of fibrosis are critical for cardiac repair and may protect the myocardium from excessive fibrogenic responses. Due to the reparative nature of many forms of cardiac fibrosis, targeting fibrotic remodeling following myocardial injury poses major challenges. Development of effective therapies will require careful dissection of the cell biological mechanisms, study of the functional consequences of fibrotic changes on the myocardium, and identification of heart failure patient subsets with overactive fibrotic responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaos G Frangogiannis
- The Wilf Family Cardiovascular Research Institute, Department of Medicine (Cardiology), Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 1300 Morris Park Avenue, Forchheimer G46B, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA.
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He Z, Yang Y, Wen Z, Chen C, Xu X, Zhu Y, Wang Y, Wang DW. CYP2J2 metabolites, epoxyeicosatrienoic acids, attenuate Ang II-induced cardiac fibrotic response by targeting Gα 12/13. J Lipid Res 2017; 58:1338-1353. [PMID: 28554983 DOI: 10.1194/jlr.m074229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2016] [Revised: 05/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The arachidonic acid-cytochrome P450 2J2-epoxyeicosatrienoic acid (AA-CYP2J2-EET) metabolic pathway has been identified to be protective in the cardiovascular system. This study explored the effects of the AA-CYP2J2-EET metabolic pathway on cardiac fibrosis from the perspective of cardiac fibroblasts and underlying mechanisms. In in vivo studies, 8-week-old male CYP2J2 transgenic mice (aMHC-CYP2J2-Tr) and littermates were infused with angiotensin II (Ang II) or saline for 2 weeks. Results showed that CYP2J2 overexpression increased EET production. Meanwhile, impairment of cardiac function and fibrotic response were attenuated by CYP2J2 overexpression. The effects of CYP2J2 were associated with reduced activation of the α subunits of G12 family G proteins (Gα12/13)/RhoA/Rho kinase (ROCK) cascade and elevation of the NO/cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) level in cardiac tissue. In in vitro studies, cardiac fibroblast activation, proliferation, migration, and collagen production induced by Ang II were associated with activation of the Gα12/13/RhoA/ROCK pathway, which was inhibited by exogenous 11,12-EET. Moreover, silencing of Gα12/13 or RhoA exerted similar effects as 11,12-EET. Furthermore, inhibitory effects of 11,12-EET on Gα12/13 were blocked by NO/cGMP pathway inhibitors. Our findings indicate that enhancement of the AA-CYP2J2-EET metabolic pathway by CYP2J2 overexpression attenuates Ang II-induced cardiac dysfunction and fibrosis by reducing the fibrotic response of cardiac fibroblasts by targeting the Gα12/13/RhoA/ROCK pathway via NO/cGMP signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuowen He
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, People's Republic of China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetics and Molecular Mechanisms of Cardiological Disorders, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Yong Yang
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, People's Republic of China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetics and Molecular Mechanisms of Cardiological Disorders, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Zheng Wen
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, People's Republic of China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetics and Molecular Mechanisms of Cardiological Disorders, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Chen Chen
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, People's Republic of China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetics and Molecular Mechanisms of Cardiological Disorders, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Xizhen Xu
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, People's Republic of China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetics and Molecular Mechanisms of Cardiological Disorders, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Yanfang Zhu
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Yan Wang
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, People's Republic of China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetics and Molecular Mechanisms of Cardiological Disorders, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Dao Wen Wang
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, People's Republic of China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetics and Molecular Mechanisms of Cardiological Disorders, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, People's Republic of China.
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15
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Kinetics of recruitment and allosteric activation of ARHGEF25 isoforms by the heterotrimeric G-protein Gαq. Sci Rep 2016; 6:36825. [PMID: 27833100 PMCID: PMC5105084 DOI: 10.1038/srep36825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2016] [Accepted: 10/17/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Rho GTPases are master regulators of the eukaryotic cytoskeleton. The activation of Rho GTPases is governed by Rho guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs). Three RhoGEF isoforms are produced by the gene ARHGEF25; p63RhoGEF580, GEFT and a recently discovered longer isoform of 619 amino acids (p63RhoGEF619). The subcellular distribution of p63RhoGEF580 and p63RhoGEF619 is strikingly different in unstimulated cells, p63RhoGEF580 is located at the plasma membrane and p63RhoGEF619 is confined to the cytoplasm. Interestingly, we find that both P63RhoGEF580 and p63RhoGEF619 activate RhoGTPases to a similar extent after stimulation of Gαq coupled GPCRs. Furthermore, we show that p63RhoGEF619 relocates to the plasma membrane upon activation of Gαq coupled GPCRs, resembling the well-known activation mechanism of RhoGEFs activated by Gα12/13. Synthetic recruitment of p63RhoGEF619 to the plasma membrane increases RhoGEF activity towards RhoA, but full activation requires allosteric activation via Gαq. Together, these findings reveal a dual role for Gαq in RhoGEF activation, as it both recruits and allosterically activates cytosolic ARHGEF25 isoforms.
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