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Gan W, Song W, Gao Y, Zheng X, Wang F, Zhang Z, Zen K, Liang H, Yan X. Exosomal circRNAs in the plasma serve as novel biomarkers for IPF diagnosis and progression prediction. J Transl Med 2024; 22:264. [PMID: 38462601 PMCID: PMC10926640 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-05034-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) is a type of chronic interstitial pneumonia, often fatal, with elusive causes and a bleak prognosis. Its treatment options are limited and largely ineffective. Early detection and precise diagnosis are pivotal in managing the disease effectively and enhancing patient survival rates. Recently, the quest for trustworthy biomarkers for IPF has gained momentum. Notably, emerging studies indicate that circular RNAs (circRNAs) found in exosomes may hold significant potential as valuable diagnostic markers. METHODS In this study, we initially explored the expression profile of circRNAs in exosomes sourced from the blood of IPF patients and healthy volunteers, employing a human circRNA microarray. We then utilized RT-qPCR to corroborate the dysregulated circRNAs identified by the microarray during the training phase. Next, the circRNAs that displayed a significant increase during the training phase were selected for further validation in a larger cohort encompassing 113 IPF patients and 76 healthy volunteers. Ultimately, the expression level and function of hsa_circ_0044226 were substantiated through a series of in vivo and in vitro experiments. RESULTS Utilizing a human circRNA microarray, we identified 11 dysregulated circRNAs in the exosomes derived from the blood of IPF patients and control volunteers. Subsequent RT-qPCR analysis revealed significant increases in three circRNAs (hsa_circ_0044226, hsa_circ_0004099, hsa_circ_0008898) within the IPF patients. Notably, hsa_circ_0044226 was markedly elevated in patients experiencing acute exacerbation of IPF (AE-IPF) compared to those with stable IPF (S-IPF). Additionally, an upregulation of hsa_circ_0044226 was observed in the blood exosomes derived from a bleomycin-induced IPF mouse model. CONCLUSION The expression levels of hsa_circ_0044226, hsa_circ_0004099, and hsa_circ_0008898 in plasma exosomes introduce a new paradigm of biomarkers for the diagnosis and progression of IPF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenhua Gan
- Department of Emergency, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Wenwen Song
- Department of Emergency, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Yujuan Gao
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Xuexue Zheng
- Department of Emergency, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Fengjuan Wang
- Department of Emergency, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Zirui Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Medical School, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Ke Zen
- Department of Emergency, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China.
| | - Hongwei Liang
- Department of Emergency, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China.
| | - Xin Yan
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210008, China.
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Liu Q, Zhang Y, Han B, Wang M, Hu H, Ning J, Hu W, Chen M, Pang Y, Chen Y, Bao L, Niu Y, Zhang R. circRNAs deregulation in exosomes derived from BEAS-2B cells is associated with vascular stiffness induced by PM 2.5. J Environ Sci (China) 2024; 137:527-539. [PMID: 37980036 DOI: 10.1016/j.jes.2023.02.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/20/2023]
Abstract
As an environmental pollutant, ambient fine particulate matter (PM2.5) was linked to cardiovascular diseases. The molecular mechanisms underlying PM2.5-induced extrapulmonary disease has not been elucidated clearly. In this study the ambient PM2.5 exposure mice model we established was to explore adverse effects of vessel and potential mechanisms. Long-term PM2.5 exposure caused reduced lung function and vascular stiffness in mice. And chronic PM2.5 induced migration and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) phenotype in BEAS-2B cells. After PM2.5 treatment, the circRNAs and mRNAs levels of exosomes released by BEAS-2B cells were detected by competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) array, which contained 1664 differentially expressed circRNAs (DE-circRNAs) and 308 differentially expressed mRNAs (DE-mRNAs). By bioinformatics analysis on host genes of DE-circRNAs, vascular diseases and some pathways related to vascular diseases including focal adhesion, tight junction and adherens junction were enriched. Then, ceRNA network was constructed, and DE-mRNAs in ceRNA network were conducted functional enrichment analysis by Ingenuity Pathway Analysis, which indicated that hsa_circ_0012627, hsa_circ_0053261 and hsa_circ_0052810 were related to vascular endothelial dysfunction. Furthermore, it was verified experimentally that ExoPM2.5 could induce endothelial dysfunction by increased endothelial permeability and decreased relaxation in vitro. In present study, we investigated in-depth knowledge into the molecule events related to PM2.5 toxicity and pathogenesis of vascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingping Liu
- Department of Toxicology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050017, China
| | - Yaling Zhang
- Department of Toxicology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050017, China
| | - Bin Han
- Department of Toxicology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050017, China; State Key Laboratory of Environment Health (Incubation), Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Environment and Health (Wuhan), Ministry of Environmental Protection, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Mengruo Wang
- Department of Toxicology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050017, China
| | - Huaifang Hu
- Department of Toxicology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050017, China
| | - Jie Ning
- Department of Toxicology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050017, China
| | - Wentao Hu
- Department of Toxicology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050017, China
| | - Meiyu Chen
- Department of Toxicology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050017, China
| | - Yaxian Pang
- Department of Toxicology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050017, China
| | - Yuanyuan Chen
- China CDC Key Laboratory of Environment and Population Health, National Institute of Environmental Health, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Lei Bao
- Occupational Health and Environmental Health, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050017, China
| | - Yujie Niu
- Occupational Health and Environmental Health, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050017, China; Hebei Key Laboratory of Environment and Human Health, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050017, China
| | - Rong Zhang
- Department of Toxicology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050017, China; Hebei Key Laboratory of Environment and Human Health, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050017, China.
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3
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Surendran A, Huang C, Liu L. Circular RNAs and their roles in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Respir Res 2024; 25:77. [PMID: 38321530 PMCID: PMC10848557 DOI: 10.1186/s12931-024-02716-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive and fatal lung disease with limited treatment options. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have emerged as a novel class of non-coding RNAs with diverse functions in cellular processes. This review paper aims to explore the potential involvement of circRNAs in the pathogenesis of IPF and their diagnostic and therapeutic implications. We begin by providing an overview of the epidemiology and risk factors associated with IPF, followed by a discussion of the pathophysiology underlying this complex disease. Subsequently, we delve into the history, types, biogenesis, and functions of circRNAs and then emphasize their regulatory roles in the pathogenesis of IPF. Furthermore, we examine the current methodologies for detecting circRNAs and explore their diagnostic applications in IPF. Finally, we discuss the potential utility of circRNAs in the treatment of IPF. In conclusion, circRNAs hold great promise as novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets in the management of IPF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akshaya Surendran
- The Lundberg-Kienlen Lung Biology and Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Physiological Sciences, Oklahoma State University, 264 McElroy Hall, Stillwater, OK, 74078, USA
- Oklahoma Center for Respiratory and Infectious Diseases, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Chaoqun Huang
- The Lundberg-Kienlen Lung Biology and Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Physiological Sciences, Oklahoma State University, 264 McElroy Hall, Stillwater, OK, 74078, USA
- Oklahoma Center for Respiratory and Infectious Diseases, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Lin Liu
- The Lundberg-Kienlen Lung Biology and Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Physiological Sciences, Oklahoma State University, 264 McElroy Hall, Stillwater, OK, 74078, USA.
- Oklahoma Center for Respiratory and Infectious Diseases, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma, USA.
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4
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Zhang S, Hu W, Lv C, Song X. Biogenesis and Function of circRNAs in Pulmonary Fibrosis. Curr Gene Ther 2024; 24:395-409. [PMID: 39005062 DOI: 10.2174/0115665232284076240207073542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
Pulmonary fibrosis is a class of fibrosing interstitial lung diseases caused by many pathogenic factors inside and outside the lung, with unknown mechanisms and without effective treatment. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of the molecular mechanism implicated in pulmonary fibrosis pathogenesis is urgently needed to develop new and effective measures. Although circRNAs have been widely acknowledged as new contributors to the occurrence and development of diseases, only a small number of circRNAs have been functionally characterized in pulmonary fibrosis. Here, we systematically review the biogenesis and functions of circRNAs and focus on how circRNAs participate in pulmonary fibrogenesis by influencing various cell fates. Meanwhile, we analyze the current exploration of circRNAs as a diagnostic biomarker, vaccine, and therapeutic target in pulmonary fibrosis and objectively discuss the challenges of circRNA- based therapy for pulmonary fibrosis. We hope that the review of the implication of circRNAs will provide new insights into the development circRNA-based approaches to treat pulmonary fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Songzi Zhang
- Department of Cellular and Genetic Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, China
| | - Wenjie Hu
- Department of Cellular and Genetic Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, China
| | - Changjun Lv
- Department of Cellular and Genetic Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, China
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou Medical University, Binzhou 256603, China
| | - Xiaodong Song
- Department of Cellular and Genetic Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, China
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou Medical University, Binzhou 256603, China
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5
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Zhang T, Yuan X, Jiang M, Liu B, Zhai N, Zhang Q, Song X, Lv C, Zhang J, Li H. Proteomic analysis reveals the aging-related pathways contribute to pulmonary fibrogenesis. Aging (Albany NY) 2023; 15:15382-15401. [PMID: 38147026 PMCID: PMC10781470 DOI: 10.18632/aging.205355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/27/2023]
Abstract
Aging usually causes lung-function decline and susceptibility to chronic lung diseases, such as pulmonary fibrosis. However, how aging affects the lung-fibrosis pathways and leads to the occurrence of pulmonary fibrosis is not completely understood. Here, mass spectrometry-based proteomics was used to chart the lung proteome of young and old mice. Micro computed tomography imaging, RNA immunoprecipitation, dual-fluorescence mRFP-GFP-LC3 adenovirus monitoring, transmission electron microscopy, and other experiments were performed to explore the screened differentially expressed proteins related to abnormal ferroptosis, autophagy, mitochondria, and mechanical force in vivo, in vitro, and in healthy people. Combined with our previous studies on pulmonary fibrosis, we further demonstrated that these biological processes and underlying molecular players were also involved in the aging process. Our work depicted a comprehensive cellular and molecular atlas of the aging lung and attempted to explain why aging is a risk factor for pulmonary fibrosis and the role that aging plays in the progression of pulmonary fibrosis. The abnormalities of aging triggered an increase in mechanical force and ferroptosis, autophagy blockade, and mitochondrial dysfunction, which often appear during pulmonary fibrogenesis. We hope that the elucidation of these anomalies will help to enhance our understanding of senescence-inducing pulmonary fibrosis, thereby guiding the use of anti-senescence as an entry point for early intervention in pulmonary fibrosis and age-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingwei Zhang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou Medical University, Binzhou 256603, China
| | - Xinglong Yuan
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou Medical University, Binzhou 256603, China
| | - Mengqi Jiang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou Medical University, Binzhou 256603, China
- Department of Cellular and Genetic Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, China
| | - Bo Liu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou Medical University, Binzhou 256603, China
| | - Nailiang Zhai
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou Medical University, Binzhou 256603, China
| | - Qian Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou Medical University, Binzhou 256603, China
| | - Xiaodong Song
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou Medical University, Binzhou 256603, China
- Department of Cellular and Genetic Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, China
| | - Changjun Lv
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou Medical University, Binzhou 256603, China
| | - Jinjin Zhang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou Medical University, Binzhou 256603, China
- Department of Cellular and Genetic Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, China
| | - Hongbo Li
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou Medical University, Binzhou 256603, China
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6
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Li R, Zhang H, Zhang J, Ji Y, Liu W, Liu W, Wang M, Lv C, Song X, Li H, Li M. hucMSCs Treatment Ameliorated Pulmonary Fibrosis via Downregulating the circFOXP1-HuR-EZH2/STAT1/FOXK1 Autophagic Axis. Stem Cells 2023; 41:928-943. [PMID: 37419489 DOI: 10.1093/stmcls/sxad053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023]
Abstract
This study was performed to determine the effect of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hucMSCs) treatment on pulmonary fibrosis and investigate the circFOXP1-mediated autophagic mechanism of hucMSCs treatment. Pulmonary fibrosis models were established by spraying bleomycin in mice and TGF-β1 treatment of MRC-5 cells. Results showed that hucMSCs were retained in lung and hucMSCs treatment alleviated pulmonary fibrosis. Morphological staining indicated that hucMSCs-treated mice had thinner alveolar walls, effectively improved alveolar structure, significantly reduced alveolar inflammation, and decreased collagen deposition than control mice. Fibrotic proteins, including vimentin, α-SMA, collagens I and III, and the differentiation-related protein S100 calcium-binding protein A4 was reduced considerably in the hucMSCs-treated group. The mechanistic study revealed that the inhibition of hucMSCs treatment on pulmonary fibrogenesis depended on downregulating circFOXP1, in which hucMSCs treatment promoted circFOXP1-mediated autophagy process via blocking the nuclear human antigen R (HuR) translocation and promoting the HuR degradation, leading to a marked decrease in autophagy negative regulators EZH2, STAT1, and FOXK1. In conclusion, hucMSCs treatment significantly improved pulmonary fibrosis by downregulating the circFOXP1-HuR-EZH2/STAT1/FOXK1 autophagic axis. hucMSCs can act as an effective treatment for pulmonary fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruiqiong Li
- Department of Clinical Nursing, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou Medical University, Binzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Haitong Zhang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou Medical University, Binzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Jinjin Zhang
- Medical Research Center, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, People's Republic of China
| | - Yunxia Ji
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou Medical University, Binzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenbo Liu
- Medical Research Center, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, People's Republic of China
| | - Weili Liu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou Medical University, Binzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Meirong Wang
- Medical Research Center, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, People's Republic of China
| | - Changjun Lv
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou Medical University, Binzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaodong Song
- Department of Cellular and Genetic Medicine, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, People's Republic of China
| | - Hongbo Li
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou Medical University, Binzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Minge Li
- Department of Clinical Nursing, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou Medical University, Binzhou, People's Republic of China
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Kircali MF, Turanli B. Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis Molecular Substrates Revealed by Competing Endogenous RNA Regulatory Networks. OMICS : A JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE BIOLOGY 2023; 27:381-392. [PMID: 37540140 DOI: 10.1089/omi.2023.0072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic progressive fibrotic disease of the lung with poor prognosis. Fibrosis results from remodeling of the interstitial tissue. A wide range of gene expression changes are observed, but the role of micro RNAs (miRNAs) and circular RNAs (circRNA) is still unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to establish an messenger RNA (mRNA)-miRNA-circRNA competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) regulatory network to uncover novel molecular signatures using systems biology tools. Six datasets were used to determine differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and miRNAs (DEmiRNA). Accordingly, protein-protein, mRNA-miRNA, and miRNA-circRNA interactions were constructed. Modules were determined and further analyzed in the Drug Gene Budger platform to identify potential therapeutic compounds. We uncovered common 724 DEGs and 278 DEmiRNAs. In the protein-protein interaction network, TMPRSS4, ESR2, TP73, CLEC4E, and TP63 were identified as hub protein coding genes. The mRNA-miRNA interaction network revealed two modules composed of ADRA1A, ADRA1B, hsa-miR-484 and CDH2, TMPRSS4, and hsa-miR-543. The DEmiRNAs in the modules further analyzed to propose potential circRNA regulators in the ceRNA network. These results help deepen the understanding of the mechanisms of IPF. In addition, the molecular leads reported herein might inform future innovations in diagnostics and therapeutics research and development for IPF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammed Fatih Kircali
- School of Medicine, Marmara University, Istanbul, Türkiye
- Department of Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering, Marmara University, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Beste Turanli
- Department of Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering, Marmara University, Istanbul, Türkiye
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Di X, Gao X, Peng L, Ai J, Jin X, Qi S, Li H, Wang K, Luo D. Cellular mechanotransduction in health and diseases: from molecular mechanism to therapeutic targets. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:282. [PMID: 37518181 PMCID: PMC10387486 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01501-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Cellular mechanotransduction, a critical regulator of numerous biological processes, is the conversion from mechanical signals to biochemical signals regarding cell activities and metabolism. Typical mechanical cues in organisms include hydrostatic pressure, fluid shear stress, tensile force, extracellular matrix stiffness or tissue elasticity, and extracellular fluid viscosity. Mechanotransduction has been expected to trigger multiple biological processes, such as embryonic development, tissue repair and regeneration. However, prolonged excessive mechanical stimulation can result in pathological processes, such as multi-organ fibrosis, tumorigenesis, and cancer immunotherapy resistance. Although the associations between mechanical cues and normal tissue homeostasis or diseases have been identified, the regulatory mechanisms among different mechanical cues are not yet comprehensively illustrated, and no effective therapies are currently available targeting mechanical cue-related signaling. This review systematically summarizes the characteristics and regulatory mechanisms of typical mechanical cues in normal conditions and diseases with the updated evidence. The key effectors responding to mechanical stimulations are listed, such as Piezo channels, integrins, Yes-associated protein (YAP) /transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ), and transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 (TRPV4). We also reviewed the key signaling pathways, therapeutic targets and cutting-edge clinical applications of diseases related to mechanical cues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingpeng Di
- Department of Urology and Institute of Urology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoshuai Gao
- Department of Urology and Institute of Urology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P.R. China
| | - Liao Peng
- Department of Urology and Institute of Urology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P.R. China
| | - Jianzhong Ai
- Department of Urology and Institute of Urology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P.R. China
| | - Xi Jin
- Department of Urology and Institute of Urology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P.R. China
| | - Shiqian Qi
- Department of Urology and Institute of Urology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P.R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P.R. China
| | - Hong Li
- Department of Urology and Institute of Urology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P.R. China
| | - Kunjie Wang
- Department of Urology and Institute of Urology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P.R. China.
| | - Deyi Luo
- Department of Urology and Institute of Urology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P.R. China.
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Zhang H, Zhu Q, Ji Y, Wang M, Zhang Q, Liu W, Li R, Zhang J, Xu P, Song X, Lv C. hucMSCs treatment prevents pulmonary fibrosis by reducing circANKRD42-YAP1-mediated mechanical stiffness. Aging (Albany NY) 2023; 15:5514-5534. [PMID: 37335082 PMCID: PMC10333056 DOI: 10.18632/aging.204805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023]
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a fibrosing interstitial pneumonia of unknown cause. The most typical characteristic of IPF is gradual weakening of pulmonary elasticity and increase in hardness/rigidity with aging. This study aims to identify a novel treatment approach for IPF and explore mechanism of mechanical stiffness underlying human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hucMSCs) therapy. Target ability of hucMSCs was examined by labeling with cell membrane dye Dil. Anti-pulmonary fibrosis effect of hucMSCs therapy by reducing mechanical stiffness was evaluated by lung function analysis and MicroCT imaging system and atomic force microscope in vivo and in vitro. Results showed that stiff environment of fibrogenesis caused cells to establish a mechanical connection between cytoplasm and nucleus, initiating expression of related mechanical genes such as Myo1c and F-actin. HucMSCs treatment blocked force transmission and reduced mechanical force. For further exploration of mechanism, ATGGAG was mutated to CTTGCG (the binding site of miR-136-5p) in the full-length sequence of circANKRD42. Wildtype and mutant plasmids of circANKRD42 were packaged into adenovirus vectors and sprayed into lungs of mice. Mechanistic dissection revealed that hucMSCs treatment repressed circANKRD42 reverse splicing biogenesis by inhibiting hnRNP L, which in turn promoted miR-136-5p binds to 3'-Untranslated Region (3'-UTR) of YAP1 mRNA directly, thus inhibiting translation of YAP1 and reducing YAP1 protein entering nucleus. The condition repressed expression of related mechanical genes to block force transmission and reduce mechanical forces. The mechanosensing mechanism mediated directly by circANKRD42-YAP1 axis in hucMSCs treatment, which has potential general applicability in IPF treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haitong Zhang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou Medical University, Binzhou 256603, China
| | - Qi Zhu
- Department of Cellular and Genetic Medicine, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, China
| | - Yunxia Ji
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou Medical University, Binzhou 256603, China
| | - Meirong Wang
- Department of Cellular and Genetic Medicine, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, China
| | - Qian Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou Medical University, Binzhou 256603, China
| | - Weili Liu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou Medical University, Binzhou 256603, China
| | - Ruiqiong Li
- Department of Clinical Nursing, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou Medical University, Binzhou 256603, China
| | - Jinjin Zhang
- Department of Cellular and Genetic Medicine, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, China
| | - Pan Xu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou Medical University, Binzhou 256603, China
| | - Xiaodong Song
- Department of Cellular and Genetic Medicine, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, China
| | - Changjun Lv
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou Medical University, Binzhou 256603, China
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10
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Wei L, Liu L, Bai M, Ning X, Sun S. CircRNAs: versatile players and new targets in organ fibrosis. Cell Commun Signal 2023; 21:90. [PMID: 37131173 PMCID: PMC10152639 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01051-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Organ fibrosis can occur in virtually all major organs with relentlessly progressive and irreversible progress, ultimately resulting in organ dysfunction and potentially death. Unfortunately, current clinical treatments cannot halt or reverse the progression of fibrosis to end-stage organ failure, and thus, advanced antifibrotic therapeutics are urgently needed. In recent years, a growing body of research has revealed that circular RNAs (circRNAs) play pivotal roles in the development and progression of organ fibrosis through highly diverse mechanisms of action. Thus, manipulating circRNAs has emerged as a promising strategy to mitigate fibrosis across different organ types. In this review, we systemically summarize the current state of knowledge about circRNA biological properties and the regulatory mechanisms of circRNAs. A comprehensive overview of major fibrotic signaling pathways and representative circRNAs that are known to modulate fibrotic signals are outlined. Then, we focus on the research progress of the versatile functional roles and underlying molecular mechanisms of circRNAs in various fibrotic diseases in different organs, including the heart, liver, lung, kidney and skin. Finally, we offer a glimpse into the prospects of circRNA-based interference and therapy, as well as their utilization as biomarkers in the diagnosis and prognosis of fibrotic diseases. Video abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Wei
- Department of Nephrology, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, No. 127 Changle West Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Limin Liu
- School of Medicine, Northwest University, 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi, China
| | - Ming Bai
- Department of Nephrology, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, No. 127 Changle West Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xiaoxuan Ning
- Department of Geriatrics, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, No. 127 Changle West Road, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Shiren Sun
- Department of Nephrology, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, No. 127 Changle West Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.
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11
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Lv J, Li K, Yu H, Han J, Zhuang J, Yu R, Cheng Y, Song Q, Bai K, Cao Q, Yang H, Yang X, Lu Q. HNRNPL induced circFAM13B increased bladder cancer immunotherapy sensitivity via inhibiting glycolysis through IGF2BP1/PKM2 pathway. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2023; 42:41. [PMID: 36747239 PMCID: PMC9901087 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-023-02614-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The response rate to immunotherapy in patients with bladder cancer (BCa) remains relatively low. Considering the stable existence and important functions in tumour metabolism, the role of circRNAs in regulating immune escape and immunotherapy sensitivity is receiving increasing attention. METHODS Circular RNA (circRNA) sequencing was performed on five pairs of BCa samples, and circFAM13B (hsa_circ_0001535) was screened out because of its remarkably low expression in BCa. Further mRNA sequencing was conducted, and the association of circFAM13B with glycolysis process and CD8+ T cell activation was confirmed. The functions of circFAM13B were verified by proliferation assays, glycolysis assays, BCa cells-CD8+ T cell co-culture assays and tumorigenesis experiment among human immune reconstitution NOG mice. Bioinformatic analysis, RNA-protein pull down, mass spectrometry, RNA immunoprecipitation, luciferase reporter assay and fluorescence in situ hybridization were performed to validate the HNRNPL/circFAM13B/IGF2BP1/PKM2 cascade. RESULTS Low expression of circFAM13B was observed in BCa, and it was positively associated with lower tumour stage and better prognosis among patients with BCa. The function of CD8+ T cells was promoted by circFAM13B, and it could attenuate the glycolysis of BCa cells and reverse the acidic tumour microenvironment (TME). The production of granzyme B and IFN-γ was improved, and the immunotherapy (PD-1 antibodies) sensitivity was facilitated by the inhibition of acidic TME. Mechanistically, circFAM13B was competitively bound to the KH3-4 domains of IGF2BP1 and subsequently reduced the binding of IGF2BP1 and PKM2 3'UTR. Thus, the stability of the PKM2 mRNA decreased, and glycolysis-induced acidic TME was inhibited. The generation of circFAM13B was explored by confirming whether heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein L (HNRNPL) could promote circFAM13B formation via pre-mRNA back-splicing. CONCLUSIONS HNRNPL-induced circFAM13B could repress immune evasion and enhance immunotherapy sensitivity by inhibiting glycolysis and acidic TME in BCa through the novel circFAM13B/IGF2BP1/PKM2 cascade. Therefore, circFAM13B can be used as a biomarker for guiding the immunotherapy among patients with BCa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiancheng Lv
- grid.412676.00000 0004 1799 0784Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, No. 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210029 China
| | - Kai Li
- grid.412676.00000 0004 1799 0784Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, No. 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210029 China
| | - Hao Yu
- grid.412676.00000 0004 1799 0784Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, No. 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210029 China
| | - Jie Han
- grid.412676.00000 0004 1799 0784Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, No. 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210029 China
| | - Juntao Zhuang
- grid.412676.00000 0004 1799 0784Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, No. 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210029 China
| | - Ruixi Yu
- grid.412676.00000 0004 1799 0784Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, No. 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210029 China
| | - Yidong Cheng
- grid.412676.00000 0004 1799 0784Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, No. 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210029 China
| | - Qiang Song
- grid.412676.00000 0004 1799 0784Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, No. 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210029 China
| | - Kexin Bai
- grid.412676.00000 0004 1799 0784Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, No. 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210029 China
| | - Qiang Cao
- grid.412676.00000 0004 1799 0784Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, No. 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210029 China
| | - Haiwei Yang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, No. 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210029, China.
| | - Xiao Yang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, No. 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210029, China.
| | - Qiang Lu
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, No. 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210029, China.
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12
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Identification of circRNA expression profiles and the potential role of hsa_circ_0006916 in silicosis and pulmonary fibrosis. Toxicology 2023; 483:153384. [PMID: 36403901 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2022.153384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are emerging as novel regulators in the biological development of various diseases, but their expression profiles, functions and mechanisms in silicosis and pulmonary fibrosis remain largely unexplored. In this study, we constructed a mouse model of pulmonary fibrosis by intratracheal injection of silica particles and then performed transcriptome RNA sequencing of lung tissues. The results showed that 78 circRNAs, 39 miRNAs and 262 mRNAs were differentially expressed. Among them, five circRNAs, three miRNAs and four mRNAs were further selected, and their abnormal expression was verified in mouse fibrotic lung tissues by RT-qPCR assay. The circRNA-associated ceRNA network including 206 ceRNA triplets was constructed based on abnormally expressed circRNAs, miRNAs and mRNAs, and miR-199b-5p, miR-296-5p and miR-708-5p were identified as hub miRNAs connected to circRNAs and mRNAs. Subsequently, GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analyses were performed to detect the potential roles of differentially expressed mRNAs in pulmonary fibrosis, which were mainly involved in immune response, Th17 cell differentiation, NF-κB signaling pathway and PI3K-Akt signaling pathway. Furthermore, we identified that hsa_circ_0006916 was up-regulated in pulmonary fibrosis. To characterize the potential role of hsa_circ_0006916, we transfected siRNA targeting hsa_circ_0006916 into alveolar macrophages and found that knockdown of hsa_circ_0006916 significantly increased the expression levels of M1 molecules IL-1β and TNF-α and reduced the expression level of M2 molecule TGF-β1, indicating that hsa_circ_0006916 may play an important role in the activation of M1-M2 polarization effect in macrophages. Our results provided important evidence on the possible contribution of these abnormal circRNAs to the development of silicosis and pulmonary fibrosis.
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13
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Yue D, Zhang Q, Zhang J, Liu W, Chen L, Wang M, Li R, Qin S, Song X, Ji Y. Diesel exhaust PM2.5 greatly deteriorates fibrosis process in pre-existing pulmonary fibrosis via ferroptosis. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2023; 171:107706. [PMID: 36565570 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2022.107706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) has been widely reported to contribute to the pathogenesis of pulmonary diseases. The direct hazardous effect of PM2.5 on the respiratory system at high concentrations in vitro and in vivo have been well identified. However, its effect on the pre-existing respiratory diseases of patients at environment-related concentrations remains unclear. Diesel exhaust PM2.5 as a primary representative of ambient PM2.5 fine particles were used to investigated the effect of PM2.5 on the fibrosis progression of existing pulmonary fibrosis disease models. This study reported that PM2.5 could result in the enhanced sensitivity to fibrotic response, which may be ascribed to ferroptosis induced by PM2.5 in damaged lung areas. Proteomic analysis revealed that the upregulation of HO-1 as a key mechanism in the ferroptosis and exacerbation of pulmonary fibrosis induced by PM2.5. As a result, HO-1 degraded heme-containing protein and released iron in fibrotic cells, leading to generation of mitochondrial ROS and impaired mitochondrial function. Transmission electron microscopic assay verified that PM2.5 entered the mitochondria of fibrotic cells and was accompanied by significant mitochondrial morphological changes characterized by increased mitochondrial membrane density and reduced mitochondrial size. The HO-1 inhibitor zinc protoporphyrin and mitochondrion-targeted antioxidant Mito-TEMPO significantly attenuated PM2.5-induced ferroptosis and exacerbation of fibrosis. In addition, AMPK-ULK1 axis-triggered autophagy activation and NCOA4-mediated degradation of ferritin by autophagy were found to be related to the PM2.5-induced ferroptosis of fibrotic cells. As evidenced by the inhibition of autophagy with 3-methyladenine or AMPK inhibitor, NCOA4 knockdown decreased intracellular iron accumulation and lipid peroxidation, thereby relieving PM2.5-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition and cell death in fibrotic cells. Overall, this study provided experimental support for the idea that PM2.5 greatly deteriorates fibrosis process in pre-existing pulmonary fibrosis, and HO-1-mediated mitochondrial dysfunction and NCOA4-mediated ferritinophagy are jointly required for the PM2.5-induced ferroptosis and enhanced fibrosis effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dayong Yue
- Department of Cellular and Genetic Medicine, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, China
| | - Qian Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou Medical University, Binzhou 256603, China
| | - Jinjin Zhang
- Department of Cellular and Genetic Medicine, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, China
| | - Weili Liu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou Medical University, Binzhou 256603, China
| | - Libang Chen
- Department of Cellular and Genetic Medicine, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, China
| | - Meirong Wang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou Medical University, Binzhou 256603, China
| | - Rongrong Li
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou Medical University, Binzhou 256603, China
| | - Song Qin
- Key Laboratory of Biology & Bioresource Utilization, Yantai Institute of Costal Zone Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Yantai 264003, China.
| | - Xiaodong Song
- Department of Cellular and Genetic Medicine, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, China.
| | - Yunxia Ji
- Department of Cellular and Genetic Medicine, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, China; Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou Medical University, Binzhou 256603, China.
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14
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Zhang T, Zhang J, Lv C, Li H, Song X. Senescent AECⅡ and the implication for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis treatment. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:1059434. [PMID: 36457712 PMCID: PMC9705785 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1059434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 07/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic and lethal lung disease with limited treatment options. The onset of IPF increases with age, indicating that aging is a major risk factor for IPF. Among the hallmarks of aging, cellular senescence is the primordial driver and primary etiological factor for tissue and organ aging, and an independent risk factor for the progression of IPF. In this review, we focus on the senescence of alveolar type II epithelial cells (AECIIs) and systematically summarize abnormal changes in signal pathways and biological process and implications of senescent AECIIs during IPF progression. Meanwhile, we objectively analyze current medications targeting the elimination of senescent cells or restoration of vitality such as senolytics, senomorphics, autophagy regulators, and stem cell therapy. Finally, we dialectically discuss the feasibility and limitation of targeting senescent AECIIs for IPF treatment. We hope that the understanding will provide new insights to the development of senescent AECII-based approaches for the prevention and mitigation of IPF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingwei Zhang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou Medical University, Binzhou, China
| | - Jinjin Zhang
- Department of Cellular and Genetic Medicine, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Changjun Lv
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou Medical University, Binzhou, China
| | - Hongbo Li
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou Medical University, Binzhou, China
| | - Xiaodong Song
- Department of Cellular and Genetic Medicine, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
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15
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Zhu Q, Wang J, Ji Y, Luan J, Yue D, Liu W, Li H, Zhang J, Qu G, Lv C, Song X. Danshensu methyl ester enhances autophagy to attenuate pulmonary fibrosis by targeting lncIAPF-HuR complex. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:1013098. [PMID: 36386240 PMCID: PMC9664248 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1013098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary fibrosis is an irreversible fibrotic process that has a high mortality rate and limited treatment options; thus, developing a novel therapeutic drug is critical. In this study, we synthesized danshensu methyl ester (DME) and explored its anti-pulmonary fibrotic ability on TGF-β1-stimulated lung fibroblast in vitro and on bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis in vivo. Results showed that DME decreased the expression of differentiation-related proteins, including fibroblast activation protein 1 (FAP1) and S100 calcium-binding protein A4 (S100A4), and fibrotic markers, such as a-SMA, vimentin, and collagen in vivo and in vitro. In addition, DME markedly repressed myofibroblast proliferation and migration. Mechanistically, chromatin immunoprecipitation-PCR, RNA immunoprecipitation, half-life, and other experiments revealed that DME inhibited activating transcription factor 3 expression via TGF-β1 signal transduction leading to a decrease in lncIAPF transcription and stability. Moreover, DME blocked human antigen R (HuR) nucleocytoplasmic translocation and promoted its degradation via downregulating lncIAPF, which markedly decreased the expression of HuR target genes such as negative autophagic regulators (EZH2, STAT1, and FOXK1). Collectively, our results demonstrated that DME enhanced autophagy to attenuate pulmonary fibrosis via downregulating the lncIAPF-HuR-mediated autophagic axis and the lncIAPF-HuR complex can be the target for drug action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Zhu
- Department of Cellular and Genetic Medicine, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Cellular and Genetic Medicine, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Yunxia Ji
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou Medical University, Binzhou, China
| | - Jianlin Luan
- Department of Cellular and Genetic Medicine, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Dayong Yue
- Department of Cellular and Genetic Medicine, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Weili Liu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou Medical University, Binzhou, China
| | - Hongbo Li
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou Medical University, Binzhou, China
| | - Jinjin Zhang
- Medical Research Center, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Guiwu Qu
- School of Gerontology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Changjun Lv
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou Medical University, Binzhou, China
| | - Xiaodong Song
- Department of Cellular and Genetic Medicine, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
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16
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Role of Circular RNAs in Pulmonary Fibrosis. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231810493. [PMID: 36142402 PMCID: PMC9504269 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231810493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Revised: 09/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary fibrosis is a chronic progressive form of interstitial lung disease, characterized by the histopathological pattern of usual interstitial pneumonia. Apart from aberrant alterations of protein-coding genes, dysregulation of non-coding RNAs, including microRNAs, long non-coding RNAs, and circular RNAs (circRNAs), is crucial to the initiation and progression of pulmonary fibrosis. CircRNAs are single-stranded RNAs that form covalently closed loops without 5′ caps and 3′ tails. Different from canonical splicing of mRNA, they are produced from the back-splicing of precursor mRNAs and have unique biological functions, as well as potential biomedical implications. They function as important gene regulators through multiple actions, including sponging microRNAs and proteins, regulating transcription, and splicing, as well as protein-coding and translation in a cap-independent manner. This review comprehensively summarizes the alteration and functional role of circRNAs in pulmonary fibrosis, with a focus on the involvement of the circRNA in the context of cell-specific pathophysiology. In addition, we discuss the diagnostic and therapeutic potential of targeting circRNA and their regulatory pathway mediators, which may facilitate the translation of recent advances from bench to bedside in the future.
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MOBT Alleviates Pulmonary Fibrosis through an lncITPF-hnRNP-l-Complex-Mediated Signaling Pathway. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 27:molecules27165336. [PMID: 36014574 PMCID: PMC9414852 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27165336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Revised: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Pulmonary fibrosis is characterized by the destruction of alveolar architecture and the irreversible scarring of lung parenchyma, with few therapeutic options and effective therapeutic drugs. Here, we demonstrate the anti-pulmonary fibrosis of 3-(4-methoxyphenyl)-4-oxo-4H-1-benzopyran-7-yl(αS)-α,3,4-trihydroxybenzenepropanoate (MOBT) in mice and a cell model induced by bleomycin and transforming growth factor-β1. The anti-pulmonary fibrosis of MOBT was evaluated using a MicroCT imaging system for small animals, lung function analysis and H&E and Masson staining. The results of RNA fluorescence in situ hybridization, chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP)-PCR, RNA immunoprecipitation, ChIP-seq, RNA-seq, and half-life experiments demonstrated the anti-pulmonary fibrotic mechanism. Mechanistic dissection showed that MOBT inhibited lncITPF transcription by preventing p-Smad2/3 translocation from the cytoplasm to the nucleus, resulting in a reduction in the amount of the lncITPF–hnRNP L complex. The decreased lncITPF–hnRNP L complex reduced MEF2c expression by blocking its alternative splicing, which in turn inhibited the expression of MEF2c target genes, such as TAGLN2 and FMN1. Briefly, MOBT alleviated pulmonary fibrosis through the lncITPF–hnRNP-l-complex-targeted MEF2c signaling pathway. We hope that this study will provide not only a new drug candidate but also a novel therapeutic drug target, which will bring new treatment strategies for pulmonary fibrosis.
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