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Komura K, Yanaba K, Bouaziz JD, Yoshizaki A, Hasegawa M, Varga J, Takehara K, Matsushita T. Perspective to precision medicine in scleroderma. Front Immunol 2024; 14:1298665. [PMID: 38304250 PMCID: PMC10830793 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1298665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare and heterogeneous disease with no relevant environmental trigger or significant responsible gene. It has been and will continue to be difficult to identify large enough patients to conduct classic population-based epidemiologic exposure/non-exposure studies with adequate power to ascertain environmental and genetic risk factors for these entities. The complexity of pathogenesis and heterogeneity are likely to require personalized/precision medicine for SSc. Since several potential drugs are currently available for specific patients if not whole SSc, classification of SSc seems to form the foundation for a better therapeutic strategy. To date, SSc has been classified based on the extent/severity of the affected area as well as some disease markers, including the autoantibody profile. However, such an analysis should also lead to improvements in the design of appropriately stratified clinical trials to determine the effects and prediction of targeted therapies. An approach based on drug response preclinically conducted using patients' own fibroblasts in vitro, can provide a precise disease marker/therapeutic selection for clinical practice. Because scleroderma dermal fibroblasts have a persistent hyper-productive phenotype occurring not only in person, but also in cell culture conditions. Thus, an accumulating approach based on disease markers ensures progression and de-escalation to re-establish a better life with a personally optimized drug environment after the onset of SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuhiro Komura
- Department of Dermatology, Kanazawa Red Cross Hospital, Japanese Red Cross Society, Kanazawa, Japan
- Northwestern Scleroderma Program, Division of Rheumatology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Koichi Yanaba
- Department of Dermatology, Jikei University, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Ayumi Yoshizaki
- Department of Dermatology, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - John Varga
- Northwestern Scleroderma Program, Division of Rheumatology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, United States
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Saleem S, Zia M, Siddiqui F, Ghouri M, Kulsoom U, Kawal S, Fatima S, Zehra S. Hyperfunction variant rs708035 of interleukin 1 receptor-associated kinases 2 gene involved in the predisposition of leprosy infection. J Gene Med 2023; 25:e3473. [PMID: 36670053 DOI: 10.1002/jgm.3473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Revised: 12/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mycobacterium leprae (slow-growing bacteria) is the etiological agent for leprosy infection, which is a chronic granulomatous disease. Symptoms initiate with the loss of sensation in the affected areas, which can lead to severe injuries, cuts and burns. IRAK2 (interleukin-1 receptor-associated kinases 2) is reported to function in the regulation of the NFκB pathway. The frequency of the IRAK2 polymorphism (rs708035) was unknown in the Pakistani population. Therefore, the study was designed to identify the role of the rs708035 SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) in susceptibility to leprosy. METHODOLOGY The case-control study was designed, and participants were selected by Ridley-Jopling Classification. Blood samples from healthy individuals and patients were collected after ethical approval. Genomic DNA was extracted for the amplification of selected polymorphisms by tetra-primer amplification refractory mutation system polymerase chain reaction. The desired products were observed via agarose gel (2.5%) electrophoresis followed by data analysis using bioinformatics tools (SNP Stats and SHEsis) and statistical tests (odds ratio, OR, and chi square). RESULTS The study revealed that the mutant genotype (TT) was found to be frequent among cases (22.80%) in comparison with the controls (1.66%). The SNP rs708035 was significantly associated with the progression of leprosy (χ2 = 17.62, p < 0.0001). The targeted SNP significantly increases the risk of leprosy 2.3 times (OR = 2.3119, 95% CI 1.2729-4.1989, p < 0.01). The genetic model also confirms the significant association of the A/T genotype with leprosy in the over-dominant model (OR = 2.83, 95% CI 1.16-6.89, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS The study revealed a significant association of the targeted SNP with leprosy and provided baseline data regarding the association of rs708035. The current research could be utilized for the preparation of biomarkers by considering a larger sample size. HIGHLIGHTS The patients suffering from leprosy faced various comorbidities, including hypertension and diabetes. The study reports for the first time a significant association of interleukin 1 receptor associated kinases 2 (IRAK2) single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs708035 among the Pakistani population (Karachi). The current study provides baseline data to develop diagnostic biomarkers for early detection of leprosy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saima Saleem
- The Karachi Institute of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, University of Karachi. Karachi, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Mutaher Zia
- Marie Adelaide Leprosy Centre, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Farhatulain Siddiqui
- The Karachi Institute of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, University of Karachi. Karachi, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Maham Ghouri
- The Karachi Institute of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, University of Karachi. Karachi, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Ume Kulsoom
- The Karachi Institute of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, University of Karachi. Karachi, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Sidra Kawal
- The Karachi Institute of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, University of Karachi. Karachi, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Sehrish Fatima
- The Karachi Institute of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, University of Karachi. Karachi, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Sitwat Zehra
- The Karachi Institute of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, University of Karachi. Karachi, Karachi, Pakistan
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3
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Aurangabadkar GM, Aurangabadkar MY, Choudhary SS, Ali SN, Khan SM, Jadhav US. Pulmonary Manifestations in Rheumatological Diseases. Cureus 2022; 14:e29628. [PMID: 36321051 PMCID: PMC9612897 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.29628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary involvement complicates the various aspects of care in patients suffering from autoimmune disorders. The epidemiological data generated over the last 10 to 15 years have improved the overall understanding of the risk factors and pathophysiological mechanisms involved in pulmonary involvement in rheumatological conditions. Recent advances in genetics have provided superior insight into the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases and the underlying pulmonary involvement. This review article provides a concise overview of the four most common rheumatological conditions associated with pulmonary involvement: systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), dermatomyositis/polymyositis, rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and systemic sclerosis (SSc). The clinical, epidemiological, and genetic aspects of these diseases are summarized in this article with particular emphasis on the characteristic patterns of pulmonary involvement in radiological imaging and various treatment options for each of these autoimmune diseases and their lung manifestations.
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Kim Y, Nam Y, Rim YA, Ju JH. Anti-fibrotic effect of a selective estrogen receptor modulator in systemic sclerosis. Stem Cell Res Ther 2022; 13:303. [PMID: 35841004 PMCID: PMC9284699 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-022-02987-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The rarity of systemic sclerosis (SSc) has hampered the development of therapies for this intractable autoimmune disease. Induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) can be differentiated into the key disease-affected cells in vitro. The generation of patient-derived iPSCs has opened up possibilities for rare disease modeling. Since these cells can recapitulate the disease phenotypes of the cell in question, they are useful high-throughput platforms for screening for drugs that can reverse these abnormal phenotypes. Methods SSc iPSC was generated from PBMC by Sendai virus. Human iPSC lines from SSc patients were differentiated into dermal fibroblasts and keratinocytes. The iPSC-derived differentiated cells from the SSc patients were used on high-throughput platforms to screen for FDA-approved drugs that could be effective treatments for SSc. Results Skin organoids were generated from these cells exhibited fibrosis that resembled SSc skin. Screening of the 770-FDA-approved drug library showed that the anti-osteoporotic drug raloxifene reduced SSc iPSC-derived fibroblast proliferation and extracellular matrix production and skin fibrosis in organoids and bleomycin-induced SSc-model mice. Conclusions This study reveals that a disease model of systemic sclerosis generated using iPSCs-derived skin organoid is a novel tool for in vitro and in vivo dermatologic research. Since raloxifene and bazedoxifene are well-tolerated anti-osteoporotic drugs, our findings suggest that selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM)-class drugs could treat SSc fibrosis. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13287-022-02987-w.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yena Kim
- Catholic iPSC Research Center, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, South Korea.,YiPSCELL Inc., 47-3, Banpo-dearo 39-gil, Seocho-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoojun Nam
- YiPSCELL Inc., 47-3, Banpo-dearo 39-gil, Seocho-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Yeri Alice Rim
- Catholic iPSC Research Center, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Ji Hyeon Ju
- Catholic iPSC Research Center, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, South Korea. .,YiPSCELL Inc., 47-3, Banpo-dearo 39-gil, Seocho-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea. .,Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, 137-040, Republic of Korea.
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Liebold I, Grützkau A, Göckeritz A, Gerl V, Lindquist R, Feist E, Zänker M, Häupl T, Poddubnyy D, Zernicke J, Smiljanovic B, Alexander T, Burmester GR, Gay S, Stuhlmüller B. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells are hypomethylated in active rheumatoid arthritis and methylation correlates with disease activity. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2021; 60:1984-1995. [PMID: 33200208 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keaa649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Revised: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Epigenetic modifications are dynamic and influence cellular disease activity. The aim of this study was to investigate global DNA methylation in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of RA patients to clarify whether global DNA methylation pattern testing might be useful in monitoring disease activity as well as the response to therapeutics. METHODS Flow cytometric measurement of 5-methyl-cytosine (5'-mC) was established using the cell line U937. In the subsequent prospective study, 62 blood samples were investigated, including 17 healthy donors and 45 RA patients at baseline and after 3 months of treatment with methotrexate, the IL-6 receptor inhibitor sarilumab, and Janus kinase inhibitors. Methylation status was assessed with an anti-5'-mC antibody and analysed in PBMCs and CD4+, CD8+, CD14+ and CD19+ subsets. Signal intensities of 5'-mC were correlated with 28-joint DASs with ESR and CRP (DAS28-ESR and DAS28-CRP). RESULTS Compared with healthy individuals, PBMCs of RA patients showed a significant global DNA hypomethylation. Signal intensities of 5'-mC correlated with transcription levels of DNMT1, DNMT3B and MTR genes involved in methylation processes. Using flow cytometry, significant good correlations and linear regression values were achieved in RA patients between global methylation levels and DAS28-ESR values for PBMCs (r = -0.55, P = 0.002), lymphocytes (r = -0.57, P = 0.001), CD4+ (r = -0.57, P = 0.001), CD8+ (r = -0.54, P = 0.001), CD14+ (r = -0.49, P = 0.008) and CD19+ (r = -0.52, P = 0.004) cells. CONCLUSIONS The degree of global DNA methylation was found to be associated with disease activity. Based on this novel approach, the degree of global methylation is a promising biomarker for therapy monitoring and the prediction of therapy outcome in inflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilka Liebold
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Institute of Health, Freie Universität and Humboldt-Universität, Berlin, Germany
| | - Andreas Grützkau
- Deutsches Rheuma-Forschungszentrum Berlin (DRFZ), a Leibniz-Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - Anika Göckeritz
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Institute of Health, Freie Universität and Humboldt-Universität, Berlin, Germany
| | - Velia Gerl
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Institute of Health, Freie Universität and Humboldt-Universität, Berlin, Germany
| | - Randall Lindquist
- Deutsches Rheuma-Forschungszentrum Berlin (DRFZ), a Leibniz-Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - Eugen Feist
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Institute of Health, Freie Universität and Humboldt-Universität, Berlin, Germany.,Department of Rheumatology, Helios Fachklinik, Vogelsang-Gommern, Germany
| | - Michael Zänker
- Immanuel Klinikum Bernau Herzzentrum Brandenburg, Medizinische Hochschule Brandenburg, Bernau, Germany
| | - Thomas Häupl
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Institute of Health, Freie Universität and Humboldt-Universität, Berlin, Germany
| | - Denis Poddubnyy
- Division of Gastroenterology, Infectious Diseases and Rheumatology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Berlin Institute of Health, Freie Universität and Humboldt-Universität, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jan Zernicke
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Institute of Health, Freie Universität and Humboldt-Universität, Berlin, Germany
| | - Biljana Smiljanovic
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Institute of Health, Freie Universität and Humboldt-Universität, Berlin, Germany
| | - Tobias Alexander
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Institute of Health, Freie Universität and Humboldt-Universität, Berlin, Germany
| | - Gerd R Burmester
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Institute of Health, Freie Universität and Humboldt-Universität, Berlin, Germany
| | - Steffen Gay
- Center of Experimental Rheumatology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Bruno Stuhlmüller
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Institute of Health, Freie Universität and Humboldt-Universität, Berlin, Germany
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Del Pinto R, Pietropaoli D, Monaco A, Desideri G, Ferri C, Grassi D. Non-pharmacological Strategies Against Systemic Inflammation: Molecular Basis and Clinical Evidence. Curr Pharm Des 2020; 26:2620-2629. [PMID: 32242777 DOI: 10.2174/1381612826666200403122600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2019] [Accepted: 02/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Systemic inflammation is a common denominator to a variety of cardiovascular (CV) and non-CV diseases and relative risk factors, including hypertension and its control, metabolic diseases, rheumatic disorders, and those affecting the gastrointestinal tract. Besides medications, a non-pharmacological approach encompassing lifestyle changes and other complementary measures is mentioned in several updated guidelines on the management of these conditions. We performed an updated narrative review on the mechanisms behind the systemic impact of inflammation and the role of non-pharmacological, complementary measures centered on lowering systemic phlogosis for preserving or restoring a good global health. The central role of genetics in shaping the immune response is discussed in conjunction with that of the microbiome, highlighting the interdependence and mutual influences between the human genome and microbial integrity, diversity, and functions. Several plausible strategies to modulate inflammation and restore balanced crosstalk between the human genome and the microbiome are then recapitulated, including dietary measures, active lifestyle, and other potential approaches to manipulate the resident microbial community. To date, evidence from high-quality human studies is sparse to allow the unconditioned inclusion of understudied, though plausible solutions against inflammation into public health strategies for global wellness. This gap claims further focused, well-designed research targeted at unravelling the mechanisms behind future personalized medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita Del Pinto
- University of L'Aquila, Department of Life, Health, and Environmental Sciences, San Salvatore Hospital, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Davide Pietropaoli
- University of L'Aquila, Department of Life, Health, and Environmental Sciences, San Salvatore Hospital, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Annalisa Monaco
- University of L'Aquila, Department of Life, Health, and Environmental Sciences, San Salvatore Hospital, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Giovambattista Desideri
- University of L'Aquila, Department of Life, Health, and Environmental Sciences, San Salvatore Hospital, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Claudio Ferri
- University of L'Aquila, Department of Life, Health, and Environmental Sciences, San Salvatore Hospital, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Davide Grassi
- University of L'Aquila, Department of Life, Health, and Environmental Sciences, San Salvatore Hospital, L'Aquila, Italy
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Piera-Velazquez S, Wermuth PJ, Gomez-Reino JJ, Varga J, Jimenez SA. Chemical exposure-induced systemic fibrosing disorders: Novel insights into systemic sclerosis etiology and pathogenesis. Semin Arthritis Rheum 2020; 50:1226-1237. [PMID: 33059296 DOI: 10.1016/j.semarthrit.2020.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Revised: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Numerous drugs and chemical substances are capable of inducing exaggerated tissue fibrotic responses. The vast majority of these agents cause localized fibrotic tissue reactions or fibrosis confined to specific organs. Although much less frequent, chemically-induced systemic fibrotic disorders have been described, sometimes occurring as temporally confined outbreaks. These include the Toxic Oil Syndrome (TOS), the Eosinophilia-Myalgia Syndrome (EMS), and Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis (NSF). Although each of these disorders displays some unique characteristics, they all share crucial features with Systemic Sclerosis (SSc), the prototypic idiopathic systemic fibrotic disease, including vasculopathy, chronic inflammatory cell infiltration of affected tissues, and cutaneous and visceral tissue fibrosis. The study of the mechanisms and molecular alterations involved in the development of the chemically-induced systemic fibrotic disorders has provided valuable clues that may allow elucidation of SSc etiology and pathogenesis. Here, we review relevant aspects of the TOS, EMS, and NSF epidemic outbreaks of chemically-induced systemic fibrosing disorders that provide strong support to the hypothesis that SSc is caused by a toxic or biological agent that following its internalization by endothelial cells induces in genetically predisposed individuals a series of molecular alterations that result in the development of SSc clinical and pathological alterations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonsoles Piera-Velazquez
- Jefferson Institute of Molecular Medicine and Scleroderma Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Peter J Wermuth
- Jefferson Institute of Molecular Medicine and Scleroderma Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Juan J Gomez-Reino
- Fundacion IDIS, Instituto de Investigacion Sanitaria, Hospital Clinico Universitario, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - John Varga
- Rheumatology Division, North Western Scleroderma Program, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Sergio A Jimenez
- Jefferson Institute of Molecular Medicine and Scleroderma Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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Henderson J, Brown M, Horsburgh S, Duffy L, Wilkinson S, Worrell J, Stratton R, O'Reilly S. Methyl cap binding protein 2: a key epigenetic protein in systemic sclerosis. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2020; 58:527-535. [PMID: 30462328 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/key327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2018] [Accepted: 09/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE SSc is an autoimmune connective tissue disease that results in skin fibrosis and currently has no effective treatment. Epigenetic modifications have been described and these may be key in initiating and driving fibroblast activation. Among these epigenetic modifications methylation may be of central importance. The aim of this study was to examine the role of methyl cap binding protein-2 (MeCP2) in SSc fibrosis. METHODS We used healthy and SSc dermal fibroblasts to examine the role of MeCP2, using both small interfering RNA silencing and lentiviral overexpression to determine its effects. We also examined the expression of MeCP2 in SSc fibroblasts by immunoblotting. miRNA132 was quantified by Taqman real time PCR. RESULTS We demonstrated that TGF-β1 induced the expression of MeCP2 in normal cells, and showed that SSc fibroblasts expressed high levels of MeCP2 under basal conditions. MeCP2 positively regulated the expression of extracellular matrix through epigenetic repression of the Wnt antagonist sFRP-1, leading to enhanced Wnt signalling. This mediated fibrosis through glycolysis, as the glycolysis inhibitor 2-deoxyglucose diminished the Wnt-mediated collagen expression. MiR132 expression was reduced in SSc fibroblasts. CONCLUSION The results suggest that an epigenetic loop exists mediating fibrosis. Targeting of MeCP2, as a key epigenetic regulator, may be a promising therapeutic approach, as would targeting the metabolic reprogramming that occurs through aerobic glycolysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Henderson
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - Max Brown
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - Steven Horsburgh
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - Laura Duffy
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - Sarah Wilkinson
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - Julie Worrell
- Fibrosis Research Group, Institute of Cellular Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - Richard Stratton
- Centre for Rheumatology and Connective Tissue Diseases, Royal Free Hospital, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, UK
| | - Steven O'Reilly
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
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Maria ATJ, Partouche L, Goulabchand R, Rivière S, Rozier P, Bourgier C, Le Quellec A, Morel J, Noël D, Guilpain P. Intriguing Relationships Between Cancer and Systemic Sclerosis: Role of the Immune System and Other Contributors. Front Immunol 2019; 9:3112. [PMID: 30687318 PMCID: PMC6335319 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.03112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2018] [Accepted: 12/17/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune connective tissue disorder, characterized by multisystem involvement, vasculopathy, and fibrosis. An increased risk of malignancy is observed in SSc (including breast and lung cancers), and in a subgroup of patients with specific autoantibodies (i.e., anti-RNA polymerase III and related autoantibodies), SSc could be a paraneoplastic syndrome and might be directly related to an immune response against cancer. Herein, we reviewed the literature, focusing on the most recent articles, and shed light onto the potential relationship between cancer and scleroderma regarding temporal and immunological dimensions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre Thibault Jacques Maria
- Medical School, Montpellier University, Montpellier, France.,Department of Internal Medicine-Multiorganic Diseases, Local Referral Center for Auto-immune Diseases, Saint-Eloi Hospital, Montpellier University, Montpellier, France.,IRMB, INSERM, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier University, Montpellier, France
| | - Léo Partouche
- Medical School, Montpellier University, Montpellier, France.,Department of Internal Medicine-Multiorganic Diseases, Local Referral Center for Auto-immune Diseases, Saint-Eloi Hospital, Montpellier University, Montpellier, France
| | - Radjiv Goulabchand
- Medical School, Montpellier University, Montpellier, France.,Department of Internal Medicine-Multiorganic Diseases, Local Referral Center for Auto-immune Diseases, Saint-Eloi Hospital, Montpellier University, Montpellier, France
| | - Sophie Rivière
- Department of Internal Medicine-Multiorganic Diseases, Local Referral Center for Auto-immune Diseases, Saint-Eloi Hospital, Montpellier University, Montpellier, France
| | - Pauline Rozier
- Medical School, Montpellier University, Montpellier, France.,Department of Internal Medicine-Multiorganic Diseases, Local Referral Center for Auto-immune Diseases, Saint-Eloi Hospital, Montpellier University, Montpellier, France.,IRMB, INSERM, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier University, Montpellier, France
| | - Céline Bourgier
- Medical School, Montpellier University, Montpellier, France.,Department of Radiation Oncology, INSERM U1194/IRCM, ICM-Val d'Aurelle, Montpellier, France
| | - Alain Le Quellec
- Medical School, Montpellier University, Montpellier, France.,Department of Internal Medicine-Multiorganic Diseases, Local Referral Center for Auto-immune Diseases, Saint-Eloi Hospital, Montpellier University, Montpellier, France
| | - Jacques Morel
- Medical School, Montpellier University, Montpellier, France.,Department of Rheumatology, Lapeyronie Hospital, Montpellier, France
| | - Danièle Noël
- IRMB, INSERM, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier University, Montpellier, France
| | - Philippe Guilpain
- Medical School, Montpellier University, Montpellier, France.,Department of Internal Medicine-Multiorganic Diseases, Local Referral Center for Auto-immune Diseases, Saint-Eloi Hospital, Montpellier University, Montpellier, France.,IRMB, INSERM, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier University, Montpellier, France
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11
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Lung Involvements in Rheumatic Diseases: Update on the Epidemiology, Pathogenesis, Clinical Features, and Treatment. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2018; 2018:6930297. [PMID: 29854780 PMCID: PMC5964428 DOI: 10.1155/2018/6930297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2017] [Accepted: 03/27/2018] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Lung illness encountered in patients with rheumatic diseases bears clinical significance in terms of increased morbidity and mortality as well as potential challenges placed on patient care. Although our understanding of natural history of this important illness is still limited, epidemiologic knowledge has been accumulated during the past decade to provide useful information on the risk factors and prognosis of lung involvements in rheumatic diseases. Moreover, the pathogenesis particularly in the context of genetics has been greatly updated for both the underlying rheumatic disease and associated lung involvement. This review will focus on the current update on the epidemiologic and genetics features and treatment options of the lung involvements associated with four major rheumatic diseases (rheumatoid arthritis, systemic sclerosis, myositis, and systemic lupus erythematosus), with more attention to a specific form of involvement or interstitial lung disease.
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12
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Dolcino M, Pelosi A, Fiore PF, Patuzzo G, Tinazzi E, Lunardi C, Puccetti A. Gene Profiling in Patients with Systemic Sclerosis Reveals the Presence of Oncogenic Gene Signatures. Front Immunol 2018; 9:449. [PMID: 29559981 PMCID: PMC5845728 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.00449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2017] [Accepted: 02/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare connective tissue disease characterized by three pathogenetic hallmarks: vasculopathy, dysregulation of the immune system, and fibrosis. A particular feature of SSc is the increased frequency of some types of malignancies, namely breast, lung, and hematological malignancies. Moreover, SSc may also be a paraneoplastic disease, again indicating a strong link between cancer and scleroderma. The reason of this association is still unknown; therefore, we aimed at investigating whether particular genetic or epigenetic factors may play a role in promoting cancer development in patients with SSc and whether some features are shared by the two conditions. We therefore performed a gene expression profiling of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) derived from patients with limited and diffuse SSc, showing that the various classes of genes potentially linked to the pathogenesis of SSc (such as apoptosis, endothelial cell activation, extracellular matrix remodeling, immune response, and inflammation) include genes that directly participate in the development of malignancies or that are involved in pathways known to be associated with carcinogenesis. The transcriptional analysis was then complemented by a complex network analysis of modulated genes which further confirmed the presence of signaling pathways associated with carcinogenesis. Since epigenetic mechanisms, such as microRNAs (miRNAs), are believed to play a central role in the pathogenesis of SSc, we also evaluated whether specific cancer-related miRNAs could be deregulated in the serum of SSc patients. We focused our attention on miRNAs already found upregulated in SSc such as miR-21-5p, miR-92a-3p, and on miR-155-5p, miR 126-3p and miR-16-5p known to be deregulated in malignancies associated to SSc, i.e., breast, lung, and hematological malignancies. miR-21-5p, miR-92a-3p, miR-155-5p, and miR-16-5p expression was significantly higher in SSc sera compared to healthy controls. Our findings indicate the presence of modulated genes and miRNAs that can play a predisposing role in the development of malignancies in SSc and are important for a better risk stratification of patients and for the identification of a better individualized precision medicine strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marzia Dolcino
- Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Andrea Pelosi
- Immunology Area, Pediatric Hospital Bambino Gesù, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Elisa Tinazzi
- Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | | | - Antonio Puccetti
- Immunology Area, Pediatric Hospital Bambino Gesù, Rome, Italy.,Department of Experimental Medicine - Section of Histology, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
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Subhra Das S, James M, Paul S, Chakravorty N. miRnalyze: an interactive database linking tool to unlock intuitive microRNA regulation of cell signaling pathways. DATABASE-THE JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL DATABASES AND CURATION 2017; 2017:3074786. [PMID: 28365733 PMCID: PMC5467568 DOI: 10.1093/database/bax015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2016] [Accepted: 02/13/2017] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
The various pathophysiological processes occurring in living systems are known to be orchestrated by delicate interplays and cross-talks between different genes and their regulators. Among the various regulators of genes, there is a class of small non-coding RNA molecules known as microRNAs. Although, the relative simplicity of miRNAs and their ability to modulate cellular processes make them attractive therapeutic candidates, their presence in large numbers make it challenging for experimental researchers to interpret the intricacies of the molecular processes they regulate. Most of the existing bioinformatic tools fail to address these challenges. Here, we present a new web resource 'miRnalyze' that has been specifically designed to directly identify the putative regulation of cell signaling pathways by miRNAs. The tool integrates miRNA-target predictions with signaling cascade members by utilizing TargetScanHuman 7.1 miRNA-target prediction tool and the KEGG pathway database, and thus provides researchers with in-depth insights into modulation of signal transduction pathways by miRNAs. miRnalyze is capable of identifying common miRNAs targeting more than one gene in the same signaling pathway-a feature that further increases the probability of modulating the pathway and downstream reactions when using miRNA modulators. Additionally, miRnalyze can sort miRNAs according to the seed-match types and TargetScan Context ++ score, thus providing a hierarchical list of most valuable miRNAs. Furthermore, in order to provide users with comprehensive information regarding miRNAs, genes and pathways, miRnalyze also links to expression data of miRNAs (miRmine) and genes (TiGER) and proteome abundance (PaxDb) data. To validate the capability of the tool, we have documented the correlation of miRnalyze's prediction with experimental confirmation studies. Database URL http://www.mirnalyze.in.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sankha Subhra Das
- School of Medical Science and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, West Bengal 721302, India
| | - Mithun James
- National Brain Research Centre, Manesar, Haryana 122051, India
| | - Sandip Paul
- School of Medical Science and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, West Bengal 721302, India
| | - Nishant Chakravorty
- School of Medical Science and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, West Bengal 721302, India
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a heterogeneous autoimmune disease which has defined three hallmarks: Small vessel vasculopathy, production of autoantibodies and fibroblast dysfunction. The exact aetiology of the disease remains unknown, due to the complex nature of the cellular signalling pathways involved. However, there is strong and consistent evidence that the innate system, in particular toll-like receptor signalling, is contributing to the progression and perhaps onset of systemic sclerosis. In light of this evidence, this review examines the role of innate immunity in systemic sclerosis and where appropriate suggests avenues for therapeutic modulation in SSc. RECENT FINDINGS Multiple lines of evidence suggest that Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are dysregulated and emerging evidence suggests that many endogenous ligands are also elevated in the disease leading to 'sterile inflammation' and ultimately the induction of fibrosis. Currently, no effective therapy exists and exploiting the innate immune system perturbation may be one possible avenue. Innate immune dysregulation is key in SSc pathogenesis and may represent a novel target.
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Ciechomska M, O'Reilly S, Przyborski S, Oakley F, Bogunia-Kubik K, van Laar JM. Histone Demethylation and Toll-like Receptor 8-Dependent Cross-Talk in Monocytes Promotes Transdifferentiation of Fibroblasts in Systemic Sclerosis Via Fra-2. Arthritis Rheumatol 2017; 68:1493-504. [PMID: 26814616 DOI: 10.1002/art.39602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2015] [Accepted: 01/14/2016] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate whether epigenetic changes can modulate monocytes to produce tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases 1 (TIMP-1) via Fra-2 (an activator protein 1 [AP-1] family member), a novel downstream mediator that promotes fibrogenesis. METHODS AP-1 transcription factors and TIMP-1 expression were measured in monocytes from systemic sclerosis (SSc) patients and healthy controls. Involvement of Fra-2 in the regulation of TIMP-1 following treatment with Toll-like receptor 8 (TLR-8) agonist was investigated using a luciferase activity assay and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) analysis. Expression of TIMP-1 and Fra-2 was determined in response to TLR-8 treatment and to different histone modifications, including 3'-deazaneplanocin (DZNep) and apicidin. Fibroblasts from healthy controls were cocultured with DZNep plus TLR-8-treated healthy control monocytes. RESULTS Up-regulation of Fra-2 was detected in bleomycin-challenged mice and in skin biopsy samples from SSc patients. Enhanced expression of Fra-2 and TIMP-1 was correlated in SSc monocytes (P = 0.021). The expression of Fra-1 was significantly reduced (P = 0.037) in SSc monocytes. Inhibiting AP-1 activity reduced TIMP-1 production in TLR-8-stimulated monocytes from healthy controls and SSc patients. ChIP experiments revealed binding of Fra-2 to the TIMP-1 promoter. Stimulation with DZNep plus TLR-8 enhanced Fra-2 and TIMP-1 expression in healthy control monocytes, whereas TLR-8 plus apicidin repressed Fra-2 and TIMP-1 expression. Finally, healthy control monocytes treated with DZNep plus TLR-8 induced strong production of α-smooth muscle actin in dermal fibroblasts, which was inhibited by TIMP-1-blocking antibody. CONCLUSION These data demonstrate a novel role of histone demethylation induced by DZNep on Fra-2-mediated TIMP-1 production by monocytes in the presence of TLR-8 agonist. This consequently orchestrates the transdifferentiation of fibroblasts, a key event in the pathogenesis of SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marzena Ciechomska
- Institute of Cellular Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK, L. Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, Wroclaw, Poland, and National Institute of Geriatrics, Rheumatology, and Rehabilitation, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Steven O'Reilly
- Institute of Cellular Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK, and Durham University, School of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Durham, UK
| | - Stefan Przyborski
- Durham University, School of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Durham, UK
| | - Fiona Oakley
- Institute of Cellular Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Katarzyna Bogunia-Kubik
- Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, and Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Jacob M van Laar
- Institute of Cellular Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK, and University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Chen C, Wang D, Moshaverinia A, Liu D, Kou X, Yu W, Yang R, Sun L, Shi S. Mesenchymal stem cell transplantation in tight-skin mice identifies miR-151-5p as a therapeutic target for systemic sclerosis. Cell Res 2017; 27:559-577. [PMID: 28106077 PMCID: PMC5385608 DOI: 10.1038/cr.2017.11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2016] [Revised: 10/03/2016] [Accepted: 12/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc), an autoimmune disease, may cause significant osteopenia due to activation of the IL4Rα/mTOR pathway. Mesenchymal stem cell transplantation (MSCT) can ameliorate immune disorders in SSc via inducing immune tolerance. However, it is unknown whether MSCT rescues osteopenia phenotype in SSc. Here we show that MSCT can effectively ameliorate osteopenia in SSc mice by rescuing impaired lineage differentiation of the recipient bone marrow MSCs. Mechanistically, we show that donor MSCs transfer miR-151-5p to the recipient bone marrow MSCs in SSc mice to inhibit IL4Rα expression, thus downregulating mTOR pathway activation to enhance osteogenic differentiation and reduce adipogenic differentiation. Moreover, systemic delivery of miR-151-5p is capable of rescuing osteopenia, impaired bone marrow MSCs, tight skin, and immune disorders in SSc mice, suggesting that miR-151-5p may be a specific target for SSc treatment. Our finding identifies a previously unrecognized role of MSCT in transferring miRNAs to recipient stem cells to ameliorate osteopenia via rescuing a non-coding RNA pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chider Chen
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Pennsylvania, School of Dental Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Dandan Wang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, 321 Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210008, China
| | - Alireza Moshaverinia
- Division of Advanced Prosthodontics, Weintraub Center for Reconstructive Biotechnology, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Dawei Liu
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Pennsylvania, School of Dental Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Xiaoxing Kou
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Pennsylvania, School of Dental Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Wenjing Yu
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Pennsylvania, School of Dental Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Ruili Yang
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Pennsylvania, School of Dental Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Lingyun Sun
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, 321 Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210008, China
| | - Songtao Shi
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Pennsylvania, School of Dental Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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Herskind C, Talbot CJ, Kerns SL, Veldwijk MR, Rosenstein BS, West CML. Radiogenomics: A systems biology approach to understanding genetic risk factors for radiotherapy toxicity? Cancer Lett 2016; 382:95-109. [PMID: 26944314 PMCID: PMC5016239 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2016.02.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2015] [Revised: 02/17/2016] [Accepted: 02/19/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Adverse reactions in normal tissue after radiotherapy (RT) limit the dose that can be given to tumour cells. Since 80% of individual variation in clinical response is estimated to be caused by patient-related factors, identifying these factors might allow prediction of patients with increased risk of developing severe reactions. While inactivation of cell renewal is considered a major cause of toxicity in early-reacting normal tissues, complex interactions involving multiple cell types, cytokines, and hypoxia seem important for late reactions. Here, we review 'omics' approaches such as screening of genetic polymorphisms or gene expression analysis, and assess the potential of epigenetic factors, posttranslational modification, signal transduction, and metabolism. Furthermore, functional assays have suggested possible associations with clinical risk of adverse reaction. Pathway analysis incorporating different 'omics' approaches may be more efficient in identifying critical pathways than pathway analysis based on single 'omics' data sets. Integrating these pathways with functional assays may be powerful in identifying multiple subgroups of RT patients characterised by different mechanisms. Thus 'omics' and functional approaches may synergise if they are integrated into radiogenomics 'systems biology' to facilitate the goal of individualised radiotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carsten Herskind
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Universitätsmedizin Mannheim, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Germany.
| | | | - Sarah L Kerns
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, USA; Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, USA
| | - Marlon R Veldwijk
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Universitätsmedizin Mannheim, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Germany
| | - Barry S Rosenstein
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, USA; Department of Radiation Oncology, New York University School of Medicine, USA; Department of Dermatology, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, USA
| | - Catharine M L West
- Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Manchester, Christie Hospital, Manchester, UK
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18
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Epigenetics in fibrosis. Mol Aspects Med 2016; 54:89-102. [PMID: 27720780 DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2016.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2016] [Revised: 09/29/2016] [Accepted: 10/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Fibrosis is a common and important disease. It is a pathological state due to excessive scar formation mediated by an increase in activated fibroblasts that express alpha smooth muscle actin and copious amounts of extracellular matrix molecules. Epigenetics is an area of research that encompasses three main mechanisms: methylation, histone modifications to the tails of histones and also non-coding RNAs including long and short non-coding RNAs. These three mechanisms all seek to regulate gene expression without a change in the underlying DNA sequence. In recent years an explosion of research, aided by deep sequencing technology becoming available, has demonstrated a role for epigenetics in fibrosis, either organ specific like lung fibrosis or more widespread as in systemic sclerosis. While the great majority of epigenetic work in fibrosis is centered on histone codes, more recently the non-coding RNAs have been examined in greater detail. It is known that one modification can affect the other and cross-talk among all three adds a new layer of complexity. This review aims to examine the role of epigenetics in fibrosis, evaluating all three mechanisms, and to suggest possible areas where epigenetics could be targeted therapeutically.
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19
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Dowson C, O'Reilly S. DNA methylation in fibrosis. Eur J Cell Biol 2016; 95:323-30. [PMID: 27346523 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejcb.2016.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2016] [Revised: 05/10/2016] [Accepted: 06/12/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis is characterised by an exuberant wound healing response and the major cell type responsible is the myofibroblast. The myofibroblast is typified by excessive ECM production and contractile activity and is demarcated by alpha-smooth muscle actin expression. What has recently come to light is that the activation of the fibroblast to myofibroblast may be under epigenetic control, specifically methylation. Methylation of DNA is a conserved mechanism to precisely regulate gene expression in a specific context. Hypermethylation leads to gene repression and hypomethylation results in gene induction. Methylation abnormalities have recently been uncovered in fibrosis, both organ specific and widespread fibrosis. The fact that these methylation changes are rapid and reversible lends themselves amenable to therapeutic intervention. This review considers the role of methylation in fibrosis and the activation of the myofibroblasts and how this could be targeted for fibrosis. Fibrosis is of course currently intractable to therapeutics and is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality and is an urgent unmet clinical need.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Dowson
- Cell Biology Group, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Ellison Building, Newcastle Upon Tyne NE1 3HY, United Kingdom
| | - Steven O'Reilly
- Cell Biology Group, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Ellison Building, Newcastle Upon Tyne NE1 3HY, United Kingdom.
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O'Reilly S, Ciechomska M, Fullard N, Przyborski S, van Laar JM. IL-13 mediates collagen deposition via STAT6 and microRNA-135b: a role for epigenetics. Sci Rep 2016; 6:25066. [PMID: 27113293 PMCID: PMC4844987 DOI: 10.1038/srep25066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2016] [Accepted: 04/04/2016] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis is an autoimmune connective tissue disease in which T cells play a prominent role. We and others have previously demonstrated a role for T cell-derived IL-13 in mediating the induction of collagen in dermal fibroblasts and that blockade with IL-13 antibodies attenuates this increase. In this study we want to probe the signalling that underpins IL-13 mediated matrix deposition. Isolated dermal fibroblasts were incubated with recombinant IL-13 and gene expression by qRT-PCR was performed for collagen1A1 and TGF-β1. Small interfering RNA (siRNA) was used to knock down STAT6 and a small molecule inhibitor was also used to block this pathway. MiR-135b was transfected into fibroblasts plus and minus IL-13 to see if this miR plays a role. miR-135b was measured in systemic sclerosis fibroblasts isolated from patients and also in serum. Results showed that IL-13 increased collagen expression and that this is independent from TGF-β1. This is dependent on STAT6 as targeting this blocked induction. MiR-135b reduces collagen induction in fibroblasts and scleroderma fibroblasts have lower constitutive levels of the miR. We further demonstrate that miR135b is repressed by methylation and may include MeCP2. In conclusion we show that STAT6 and miR-135b regulate IL-13-mediated collagen production by fibroblasts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven O'Reilly
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE1 8ST, United Kingdom
| | - Marzena Ciechomska
- Institute of Cellular Medicine Faculty of Medical Sciences, MRG 4th Floor Cookson Building Framlington Place, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE2 4HH.,National Institute of geriatrics rheumatology and rehabilitation, Warsaw, Poland.,Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Science, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Nicola Fullard
- School of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Durham University, Durham United Kingdom
| | - Stefan Przyborski
- School of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Durham University, Durham United Kingdom
| | - Jacob M van Laar
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Critical Link Between Epigenetics and Transcription Factors in the Induction of Autoimmunity: a Comprehensive Review. Clin Rev Allergy Immunol 2016; 50:333-44. [DOI: 10.1007/s12016-016-8534-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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MicroRNAs Regulating Signaling Pathways: Potential Biomarkers in Systemic Sclerosis. GENOMICS PROTEOMICS & BIOINFORMATICS 2015; 13:234-41. [PMID: 26365208 PMCID: PMC4610971 DOI: 10.1016/j.gpb.2015.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2015] [Revised: 07/22/2015] [Accepted: 07/27/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a multisystem fibrotic and autoimmune disease. Both genetic and epigenetic elements mediate SSc pathophysiology. This review summarizes the role of one epigenetic element, known as microRNAs (miRNAs), involved in different signaling pathways of SSc pathogenesis. The expression of key components in transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling pathway has been found to be regulated by miRNAs both upstream and downstream of TGF-β. We are specifically interested in the pathway components upstream of TGF-β, while miRNAs in other signaling pathways have not been extensively studied. The emerging role of miRNAs in vasculopathy of SSc suggests a promising new direction for future investigation. Elucidation of the regulatory role of miRNAs in the expression of signaling factors may facilitate the discovery of novel biomarkers in SSc and improve the understanding and treatment of this disease.
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Global DNA methylation changes and differential gene expression in Anaplasma phagocytophilum-infected human neutrophils. Clin Epigenetics 2015. [PMID: 26225157 PMCID: PMC4518890 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-015-0105-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Anaplasma phagocytophilum is an obligate intracellular prokaryotic pathogen that both infects and replicates within human neutrophils. The bacterium represses multiple antimicrobial functions while simultaneously increasing proinflammatory functions by reprogramming the neutrophil genome. Previous reports show that many observed phenotypic changes are in part explained by altered gene transcription. We recently identified that large chromosomal regions of the neutrophil genome are differentially expressed during A. phagocytophilum infection. Because of this, we sought to determine whether gene expression programs altered by infection were the result of changes in the host neutrophil DNA methylome. Results Within 24 h of infection, marked increases in DNA methylation were observed genome-wide as compared with mock-infected controls and pharmacologic inhibition of DNA methyltransferases resulted in decreased bacterial growth. New regions of DNA methylation were enriched at intron and exon junctions; however, intragenic methylation did not correlate with altered gene expression. In contrast, intergenic DNA methylation was associated with A. phagocytophilum-induced gene expression changes. Within the major histocompatibility complex locus on chromosome 6, a region with marked changes in infection-induced differential gene expression, new regions of methylation were localized to boundaries of active and inactive chromatin. Conclusions These data strongly suggest that A. phagocytophilum infection, in addition to altering histone structure, alters DNA methylation and the epigenome of its host cell to promote survival and replication, providing evidence that such bacterial infection can radically alter the epigenome of its host cell. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13148-015-0105-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Marie I, Gehanno JF. Environmental risk factors of systemic sclerosis. Semin Immunopathol 2015; 37:463-73. [DOI: 10.1007/s00281-015-0507-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2015] [Accepted: 06/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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Ciechomska M, O’Reilly S, Suwara M, Bogunia-Kubik K, van Laar JM. MiR-29a reduces TIMP-1 production by dermal fibroblasts via targeting TGF-β activated kinase 1 binding protein 1, implications for systemic sclerosis. PLoS One 2014; 9:e115596. [PMID: 25549087 PMCID: PMC4280195 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0115596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2014] [Accepted: 11/28/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune connective tissue disease characterised by skin and internal organs fibrosis due to accumulation of extra cellular matrix (ECM) proteins. Tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases 1 (TIMP-1) plays a key role in ECM deposition. Aim To investigate the role of miR-29a in regulation of TAB1-mediated TIMP-1 production in dermal fibroblasts in systemic sclerosis. Methods Healthy control (HC) and SSc fibroblasts were cultured from skin biopsies. The expression of TIMP-1, MMP-1 and TGF-β activated kinase 1 binding protein 1 (TAB1) was measured following miR-29a transfection using ELISA, qRT-PCR, and Western Blotting. The functional effect of miR-29a on dermal fibroblasts was assessed in collagen gel assay. In addition, HeLa cells were transfected with 3′UTR of TAB1 plasmid cloned downstream of firefly luciferase gene to assess TAB1 activity. HC fibroblasts and HeLa cells were also transfected with Target protectors in order to block the endogenous miR-29a activity. Results We found that TAB1 is a novel target gene of miR-29a, also regulating downstream TIMP-1 production. TAB1 is involved in TGF-β signal transduction, a key cytokine triggering TIMP-1 production. To confirm that TAB1 is a bona fide target gene of miR-29a, we used a TAB1 3′UTR luciferase assay and Target protector system. We showed that miR-29a not only reduced TIMP-1 secretion via TAB1 repression, but also increased functional MMP-1 production resulting in collagen degradation. Blocking TAB1 activity by pharmacological inhibition or TAB1 knockdown resulted in TIMP-1 reduction, confirming TAB1-dependent TIMP-1 regulation. Enhanced expression of miR-29a was able to reverse the profibrotic phenotype of SSc fibroblasts via downregulation of collagen and TIMP-1. Conclusions miR-29a repressed TAB1-mediated TIMP-1 production in dermal fibroblasts, demonstrating that miR-29a may be a therapeutic target in SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marzena Ciechomska
- Newcastle University, Musculoskeletal Research Group, Institute of Cellular Medicine, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
- L. Hirszferd Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Science, Wroclaw, Poland
- * E-mail:
| | - Steven O’Reilly
- Newcastle University, Musculoskeletal Research Group, Institute of Cellular Medicine, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Monika Suwara
- Newcastle University, Fibrosis Research Group, Institute of Cellular Medicine, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Katarzyna Bogunia-Kubik
- L. Hirszferd Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Science, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Jacob M. van Laar
- Newcastle University, Musculoskeletal Research Group, Institute of Cellular Medicine, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
- University Medical Center Utrecht, Department of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, Utrecht, the Netherlands
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