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Veisman I, Massey WJ, Goren I, Liu W, Chauhan G, Rieder F. Muscular hyperplasia in Crohn's disease strictures: through thick and thin. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2024; 327:C671-C683. [PMID: 38912732 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00307.2024] [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: 05/06/2024] [Revised: 06/18/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024]
Abstract
Fibrostenosing Crohn's disease (CD) represents a challenging clinical condition characterized by the development of symptomatic strictures within the gastrointestinal tract. Despite therapeutic advancements in managing inflammation, the progression of fibrostenotic complications remains a significant concern, often necessitating surgical intervention. Recent investigations have unveiled the pivotal role of smooth muscle cell hyperplasia in driving luminal narrowing and clinical symptomatology. Drawing parallels to analogous inflammatory conditions affecting other organs, such as the airways and blood vessels, sheds light on common underlying mechanisms of muscular hyperplasia. This review synthesizes current evidence to elucidate the mechanisms underlying smooth muscle cell proliferation in CD-associated strictures, offering insights into potential therapeutic targets. By highlighting the emerging significance of muscle thickening as a novel therapeutic target, this review aims to inform future research endeavors and clinical strategies with the goal to mitigate the burden of fibrostenotic complications in CD and other conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ido Veisman
- Department of Inflammation and Immunity, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio, United States
| | - William J Massey
- Department of Inflammation and Immunity, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio, United States
| | - Idan Goren
- Department of Inflammation and Immunity, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio, United States
| | - Weiwei Liu
- Department of Inflammation and Immunity, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio, United States
| | - Gaurav Chauhan
- Department of Inflammation and Immunity, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio, United States
| | - Florian Rieder
- Department of Inflammation and Immunity, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio, United States
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Digestive Diseases and Surgery Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio, United States
- Cleveland Clinic Program for Global Translational Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (GRID), Cleveland, Ohio, United States
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Sun P, Kraus CN, Zhao W, Xu J, Suh S, Nguyen Q, Jia Y, Nair A, Oakes M, Tinoco R, Shiu J, Sun B, Elsensohn A, Atwood SX, Nie Q, Dai X. Single-cell and spatial transcriptomics of vulvar lichen sclerosus reveal multi-compartmental alterations in gene expression and signaling cross-talk. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.08.14.607986. [PMID: 39211101 PMCID: PMC11361165 DOI: 10.1101/2024.08.14.607986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Vulvar diseases are a critical yet often neglected area of women's health, profoundly affecting patients' quality of life and frequently resulting in long-term physical and psychological challenges. Lichen sclerosus (LS) is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder that predominantly affects the vulva, leading to severe itching, pain, scarring, and an increased risk of malignancy. Despite its profound impact on affected individuals, the molecular pathogenesis of vulvar LS (VLS) is not well understood, hindering the development of FDA-approved therapies. Here, we utilize single-cell and spatial transcriptomics to analyze lesional and non-lesional skin from VLS patients, as well as healthy control vulvar skin. Our findings demonstrate histologic, cellular, and molecular heterogeneities within VLS, yet highlight unifying molecular changes across keratinocytes, fibroblasts, immune cells, and melanocytes in lesional skin. They reveal cellular stress and damage in fibroblasts and keratinocytes, enhanced T cell activation and cytotoxicity, aberrant cell-cell signaling, and increased activation of the IFN, JAK/STAT, and p53 pathways in specific cell types. Using both monolayer and organotypic culture models, we also demonstrate that knockdown of select genes, which are downregulated in VLS lesional keratinocytes, partially recapitulates VLS-like stress-associated changes. Collectively, these data provide novel insights into the pathogenesis of VLS, identifying potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for future research.
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Huo L, Zhang QB, Zhu DT, Wang K, Du ZY, Li XM, Mao J, Kan XL, Zhang R, Zhou Y. Preliminary study of extracorporeal shock wave alleviating joint capsule fibrosis caused by internal bleeding of knee joint in rats. Connect Tissue Res 2024:1-10. [PMID: 39140391 DOI: 10.1080/03008207.2024.2387729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2024] [Revised: 07/15/2024] [Accepted: 07/26/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Joint contracture is a common disease in clinical practice, joint bleeding is an important factor affecting the progression of joint contracture. This study aimed to explore the effect of extracorporeal shock wave on alleviating joint capsule fibrosis caused by intra-articular hemorrhage in rats. METHODS Forty two SD rats were randomly divided into seven groups. Perform simple fixation and fixation after blood injection separately. Measure the range of motion of each group's knee joints and calculate the corresponding degree of contraction. Use HE staining and Masson staining to detect the number of anterior joint capsule cells and collagen deposition. Detection of changes in Wnt1, β-catenin protein expression in joint capsule using Western blotting. RESULTS Compared to group C, the degree of knee joint contracture in M1 and M2 groups of rats increased, and collagen deposition, cell number and Wnt1, β-catenin protein expression also increased accordingly. Compared to M1 and M2 groups, the degree of knee contraction in E1 and E2 groups were reduced, while collagen deposition, cell number and Wnt1, β-catenin protein expression were decreased, and the degree of joint contracture in NR1 and NR2 groups showed no significant improvement. Compared to NR1 and NR2 groups, the degree of knee contraction in E1 and E2 groups were reduced, while collagen deposition, cell number and Wnt1, β-catenin protein expression were decreased. CONCLUSIONS Both rat models of knee joint contracture were successful, and joint bleeding can exacerbate joint contracture. Extracorporeal shock waves alleviate joint capsule fibrosis caused by intra-articular bleeding in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Quan-Bing Zhang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - De-Ting Zhu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Kui Wang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Zun-Yu Du
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Xue-Ming Li
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Jing Mao
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Xiu-Li Kan
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Run Zhang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Yun Zhou
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
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4
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Jung U, Kim M, Voy BH. Fibroadipogenic progenitors: a potential target for preventing breast muscle myopathies in broilers. Front Physiol 2024; 15:1458151. [PMID: 39193441 PMCID: PMC11347355 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2024.1458151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Genetic selection for high growth rate, breast muscle yield, and feed efficiency in modern broilers has been a double-edged sword. While it has resulted in marked benefits in production, it has also introduced widespread incidence of breast muscle myopathies. Broiler myopathies are phenotypically characterized by myodegeneration and fibrofatty infiltration, which compromise meat quality. These lesions resemble those of various myopathies found in humans, such as Duchenne muscular dystrophy, Limb-girdle muscular dystrophy, and sarcopenia. Fibroadipogenic progenitors (FAPs) are interstitial muscle-resident mesenchymal stem cells that are named because of their ability to differentiate into both fibroblasts and adipocytes. This cell population has clearly been established to play a role in the development and progression of myopathies in mice and humans. Gene expression studies of wooden breast and other related disorders have implicated FAPs in broilers, but to our knowledge this cell population have not been characterized in chickens. In this review, we summarize the evidence that FAPs may be a novel, new target for interventions that reduce the incidence and development of chicken breast muscle myopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Brynn H. Voy
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States
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5
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Cheng YC, Zhang Y, Tripathi S, Harshavardhan BV, Jolly MK, Schiebinger G, Levine H, McDonald TO, Michor F. Reconstruction of single-cell lineage trajectories and identification of diversity in fates during the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2406842121. [PMID: 39093947 PMCID: PMC11317558 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2406842121] [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: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Exploring the complexity of the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) unveils a diversity of potential cell fates; however, the exact timing and mechanisms by which early cell states diverge into distinct EMT trajectories remain unclear. Studying these EMT trajectories through single-cell RNA sequencing is challenging due to the necessity of sacrificing cells for each measurement. In this study, we employed optimal-transport analysis to reconstruct the past trajectories of different cell fates during TGF-beta-induced EMT in the MCF10A cell line. Our analysis revealed three distinct trajectories leading to low EMT, partial EMT, and high EMT states. Cells along the partial EMT trajectory showed substantial variations in the EMT signature and exhibited pronounced stemness. Throughout this EMT trajectory, we observed a consistent downregulation of the EED and EZH2 genes. This finding was validated by recent inhibitor screens of EMT regulators and CRISPR screen studies. Moreover, we applied our analysis of early-phase differential gene expression to gene sets associated with stemness and proliferation, pinpointing ITGB4, LAMA3, and LAMB3 as genes differentially expressed in the initial stages of the partial versus high EMT trajectories. We also found that CENPF, CKS1B, and MKI67 showed significant upregulation in the high EMT trajectory. While the first group of genes aligns with findings from previous studies, our work uniquely pinpoints the precise timing of these upregulations. Finally, the identification of the latter group of genes sheds light on potential cell cycle targets for modulating EMT trajectories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Chen Cheng
- Department of Data Science, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA02215
- Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA02215
- Center for Cancer Evolution, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA02215
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA02138
| | - Yun Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing100021, China
| | - Shubham Tripathi
- Yale Center for Systems and Engineering Immunology and Department of Immunobiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT06510
| | - B. V. Harshavardhan
- Interdisciplinary Mathematics Initiative, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore560012, India
| | - Mohit Kumar Jolly
- Centre for BioSystems Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore560012, India
| | - Geoffrey Schiebinger
- Department of Mathematics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BCV6T 1Z2, Canada
| | - Herbert Levine
- Center for Theoretical Biological Physics, Northeastern University, Boston, MA02115
- Department of Physics, Northeastern University, Boston, MA02115
| | - Thomas O. McDonald
- Department of Data Science, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA02215
- Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA02215
- Center for Cancer Evolution, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA02215
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA02138
| | - Franziska Michor
- Department of Data Science, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA02215
- Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA02215
- Center for Cancer Evolution, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA02215
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA02138
- The Broad Institute of Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard, Cambridge, MA02138
- The Ludwig Center at Harvard, Boston, MA02115
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Deng L, Ouyang B, Tang W, Wang N, Yang F, Shi H, Zhang Z, Yu H, Chen M, Wei Y, Dong J. Icariside II modulates pulmonary fibrosis via PI3K/Akt/β-catenin pathway inhibition of M2 macrophage program. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 130:155687. [PMID: 38759312 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2024.155687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a debilitating interstitial lung disorder characterized by its limited therapeutic interventions. Macrophages, particularly the alternatively activated macrophages (M2 subtype), have been acknowledged for their substantial involvement in the development of pulmonary fibrosis. Hence, targeting macrophages emerges as a plausible therapeutic avenue for IPF. Icariside II (ISE II) is a natural flavonoid glycoside molecule known for its excellent anti-tumor and anti-fibrotic activities. Nevertheless, the impact of ISE II on pulmonary fibrosis and the intricate mechanisms through which it operates have yet to be elucidated. OBJECTIVE To scrutinize the impact of ISE II on the regulation of M2 macrophage polarization and its inhibitory effect on pulmonary fibrosis, as well as to delve deeper into the underlying mechanisms of its actions. METHODS The effect of ISE II on proliferation and apoptosis in RAW264.7 cells was assessed through the use of EdU-488 labeling and the Annexin V/PI assay. Flow cytometry, western blot, and qPCR were employed to detect markers associated with the M2 polarization phenotype. The anti-fibrotic effects of ISE II in NIH-3T3 cells were investigated in a co-culture with M2 macrophages. Si-Ctnnb1 and pcDNA3.1(+)-Ctnnb1 plasmid were used to investigate the mechanism of targeted intervention. The murine model of pulmonary fibrosis was induced by intratracheal administration of bleomycin (BLM). Pulmonary function, histopathological manifestations, lung M2 macrophage infiltration, and markers associated with pulmonary fibrosis were evaluated. Furthermore, in vivo transcriptomics analysis was employed to elucidate differentially regulated genes in lung tissues. Immunofluorescence, western blot, and immunohistochemistry were conducted for corresponding validation. RESULTS Our investigation demonstrated that ISE II effectively inhibited the proliferation of RAW264.7 cells and mitigated the pro-fibrotic characteristics of M2 macrophages, exemplified by the downregulation of CD206, Arg-1, and YM-1, Fizz1, through the inhibition of the PI3K/Akt/β-catenin signaling pathway. This impact led to the amelioration of myofibroblast activation and the suppression of nuclear translocation of β-catenin of NIH-3T3 cells in a co-culture. Consequently, it resulted in decreased collagen deposition, reduced infiltration of profibrotic macrophages, and a concurrent restoration of pulmonary function in mice IPF models. Furthermore, our RNA sequencing results showed that ISE II could suppress the expression of genes related to M2 polarization, primarily by inhibiting the PI3K/Akt and β-catenin signaling pathway. In essence, our findings suggest that ISE II holds potential as an anti-fibrotic agent by orchestrating macrophage polarization. This may have significant implications in clinical practice. CONCLUSION This study has provided evidence that ISE II exerts a significant anti-fibrotic effect by inhibiting macrophage M2 polarization through the suppression of the PI3K/Akt/β-catenin signaling pathway. These findings underscore the potential of ISE II as a promising candidate for the development of anti-fibrotic pharmaceuticals in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingling Deng
- Department of Integrative Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Institute of Integrative Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Boshu Ouyang
- Department of Integrative Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Institute of Integrative Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Weifeng Tang
- Department of Integrative Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Institute of Integrative Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Na Wang
- Department of Integrative Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Institute of Integrative Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Fangyong Yang
- Department of Integrative Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Institute of Integrative Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hanlin Shi
- Department of Integrative Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Institute of Integrative Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhenhua Zhang
- Shanghai Fifth People's Hospital, Fudan University, China
| | - Hang Yu
- Department of Integrative Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Institute of Integrative Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Mengmeng Chen
- Department of Integrative Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Institute of Integrative Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ying Wei
- Department of Integrative Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Institute of Integrative Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Jingcheng Dong
- Department of Integrative Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Institute of Integrative Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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7
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Zhou CJ, Guo Y. Mini review on collagens in normal skin and pathological scars: current understanding and future perspective. Front Med (Lausanne) 2024; 11:1449597. [PMID: 39091289 PMCID: PMC11291465 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2024.1449597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Pathological scar tissues are characterized by the presence of overabundant collagens whose structure and organization are also different from those in unwounded skin. This causes scar tissues to lose some functions performed by normal skin, and currently, there are no effective measures to prevent scar formation. Inflammation has been shown to modulate fibroblast proliferation, differentiation, and function, hence collagen production and organization. In this minireview, we provide an overview of the current understanding of collagen, specifically collagen type I and III which are main collagens in skin, structure and fibre formation and highlight their differences between normal skin and pathological scars. We discuss the role that cytokines play in modulating fibroblast function. We also identify some potential research directions which could help to further our understanding of the complex and dynamic wound healing and scar formation process.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yuan Guo
- School of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
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Sandoval-Bórquez A, Carrión P, Hernández MP, Pérez JA, Tapia-Castillo A, Vecchiola A, Fardella CE, Carvajal CA. Adipose Tissue Dysfunction and the Role of Adipocyte-Derived Extracellular Vesicles in Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome. J Endocr Soc 2024; 8:bvae126. [PMID: 38988671 PMCID: PMC11234198 DOI: 10.1210/jendso/bvae126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Obesity is a major public health issue that is associated with metabolic diseases including diabetes mellitus type 2 and metabolic syndrome. This pathology leads to detrimental cardiovascular health and secondary effects, such as lipotoxicity, inflammation, and oxidative stress. Recently, extracellular vesicles (EVs) have been highlighted as novel players participating in human physiology and pathophysiology. In obesity, adipose tissue is related to the active shedding of adipocyte-derived extracellular vesicles (AdEVs). The current review explores and highlights the role of AdEVs and their cargo in obesity and metabolic syndrome. AdEVs are proposed to play an important role in obesity and its comorbidities. AdEVs are biological nanoparticles mainly shed by visceral and subcutaneous adipose tissue, acting in physiological and pathophysiological conditions, and also carrying different cargo biomolecules, such as RNA, microRNA (miRNA), proteins, and lipids, among others. RNA and miRNA have local and systemic effects affecting gene expression in target cell types via paracrine and endocrine actions. State of the art analyses identified some miRNAs, such as miR-222, miR-23b, miR-4429, miR-148b, and miR-4269, that could potentially affect cell pathways involved in obesity-related comorbidities, such as chronic inflammation and fibrosis. Similarly, AdEVs-proteins (RBP4, perilipin-A, FABP, mimecan, TGFBI) and AdEVs-lipids (sphingolipids) have been linked to the obesity pathophysiology. The current knowledge about AdEVs along with further research would support and reveal novel pathways, potential biomarkers, and therapeutic options in obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandra Sandoval-Bórquez
- School of Medical Technology, Faculty of Science, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaiso, Valparaiso 2373223, Chile
| | - Pablo Carrión
- Center for Translational Research in Endocrinology (CETREN-UC), Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330074, Chile
- Department of Endocrinology, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330077, Chile
| | - María Paz Hernández
- Center for Translational Research in Endocrinology (CETREN-UC), Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330074, Chile
- Department of Endocrinology, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330077, Chile
| | - Jorge A Pérez
- Center for Translational Research in Endocrinology (CETREN-UC), Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330074, Chile
- Department of Endocrinology, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330077, Chile
| | - Alejandra Tapia-Castillo
- Center for Translational Research in Endocrinology (CETREN-UC), Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330074, Chile
- Department of Endocrinology, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330077, Chile
| | - Andrea Vecchiola
- Center for Translational Research in Endocrinology (CETREN-UC), Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330074, Chile
- Department of Endocrinology, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330077, Chile
| | - Carlos E Fardella
- Center for Translational Research in Endocrinology (CETREN-UC), Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330074, Chile
- Department of Endocrinology, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330077, Chile
| | - Cristian A Carvajal
- Center for Translational Research in Endocrinology (CETREN-UC), Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330074, Chile
- Department of Endocrinology, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330077, Chile
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9
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Cheng WC, Chen PY, Zhang X, Chang YK, Tan KT, Lin TCC. 5,7,3',4'-Tetramethoxyflavone suppresses TGF-β1-induced activation of murine fibroblasts in vitro and ameliorates bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis in mice. Immunopharmacol Immunotoxicol 2024:1-13. [PMID: 38951964 DOI: 10.1080/08923973.2024.2371150] [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: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to investigate the use of 5,7,3',4'-tetramethoxyflavone (TMF) to treat pulmonary fibrosis (PF), a chronic and fatal lung disease. In vitro and in vivo models were used to examine the impact of TMF on PF. METHODS NIH-3T3 (Mouse Embryonic Fibroblast) were exposed to transforming growth factor‑β1 (TGF-β1) and treated with or without TMF. Cell growth was assessed using the MTT method, and cell migration was evaluated with the scratch wound assay. Protein and messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) levels of extracellular matrix (ECM) genes were analyzed by western blotting and quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), respectively. Downstream molecules affected by TGF-β1 were examined by western blotting. In vivo, mice with bleomycin-induced PF were treated with TMF, and lung tissues were analyzed with staining techniques. RESULTS The in vitro results showed that TMF had no significant impact on cell growth or migration. However, it effectively inhibited myofibroblast activation and ECM production induced by TGF-β1 in NIH-3T3 cells. This inhibition was achieved by suppressing various signaling pathways, including Smad, mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), phosphoinositide 3-kinase/AKT (PI3K/AKT), and WNT/β-catenin. The in vivo experiments demonstrated the therapeutic potential of TMF in reducing PF induced by bleomycin in mice, and there was no significant liver or kidney toxicity observed. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that TMF has the potential to effectively inhibit myofibroblast activation and could be a promising treatment for PF. TMF achieves this inhibitory effect by targeting TGF-β1/Smad and non-Smad pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Chien Cheng
- Doctoral Program in Translational Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Rong Hsing Translational Medicine Research Center, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Pei Ying Chen
- Doctoral Program in Translational Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Rong Hsing Translational Medicine Research Center, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Xiang Zhang
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Yu-Kang Chang
- Department of Medical Research, Tungs' Taichung MetroHarbor Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Postbaccalaureate Medicine, College of Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Kok-Tong Tan
- Department of Surgery, Tungs' Taichung Metro Harbor Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
- College of Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Tim C C Lin
- Doctoral Program in Translational Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Research, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
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10
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Li F, Zhang F, Shi H, Xia H, Wei X, Liu S, Wu T, Li Y, Shu F, Chen M, Li J, Duan R. Aerobic exercise suppresses CCN2 secretion from senescent muscle stem cells and boosts muscle regeneration in aged mice. J Cachexia Sarcopenia Muscle 2024. [PMID: 38925632 DOI: 10.1002/jcsm.13526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2023] [Revised: 05/18/2024] [Accepted: 06/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aging negatively impacts tissue repair, particularly in skeletal muscle, where the regenerative capacity of muscle stem cells (MuSCs) diminishes with age. Although aerobic exercise is known to attenuate skeletal muscle atrophy, its specific impact on the regenerative and repair capacity of MuSCs remains unclear. METHODS Mice underwent moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) from 9 months (aged + Ex-9M) or 20 months (aged + Ex-20M) to 25 months, with age-matched (aged) and adult controls. Histological examinations and MuSC transplantation assays assessed aerobic exercise effects on MuSC function and muscle regeneration. CCN2/connective tissue growth factor modulation (overexpression and knockdown) in MuSCs and AICAR supplementation effects were explored. RESULTS Aged mice displayed significantly reduced running duration (65.33 ± 4.32 vs. 161.9 ± 1.29 min, mean ± SD, P < 0.001) and distance (659.17 ± 103.64 vs. 3058.28 ± 46.26 m, P < 0.001) compared with adults. This reduction was accompanied by skeletal muscle weight loss and decreased myofiber cross-sectional area (CSA). However, MICT initiated at 9 or 20 months led to a marked increase in running duration (142.75 ± 3.14 and 133.86 ± 20.47 min, respectively, P < 0.001 compared with aged mice) and distance (2347.58 ± 145.11 and 2263 ± 643.87 m, respectively, P < 0.001). Additionally, MICT resulted in increased skeletal muscle weight and enhanced CSA. In a muscle injury model, aged mice exhibited fewer central nuclear fibres (CNFs; 266.35 ± 68.66/mm2), while adult, aged + Ex-9M and aged + Ex-20M groups showed significantly higher CNF counts (610.82 ± 46.76, 513.42 ± 47.19 and 548.29 ± 71.82/mm2, respectively; P < 0.001 compared with aged mice). MuSCs isolated from aged mice displayed increased CCN2 expression, which was effectively suppressed by MICT. Transplantation of MuSCs overexpressing CCN2 (Lenti-CCN2, Lenti-CON as control) into injured tibialis anterior muscle compromised regeneration capacity, resulting in significantly fewer CNFs in the Lenti-CCN2 group compared with Lenti-CON (488.07 ± 27.63 vs. 173.99 ± 14.28/mm2, P < 0.001) at 7 days post-injury (dpi). Conversely, knockdown of CCN2 (Lenti-CCN2shR, Lenti-NegsiR as control) in aged MuSCs improved regeneration capacity, significantly increasing the CNF count from 254.5 ± 26.36 to 560.39 ± 48.71/mm2. Lenti-CCN2 MuSCs also increased fibroblast proliferation and exacerbated skeletal muscle fibrosis, while knockdown of CCN2 in aged MuSCs mitigated this pattern. AICAR supplementation, mimicking exercise, replicated the beneficial effects of aerobic exercise by mitigating muscle weight decline, enhancing satellite cell activity and reducing fibrosis. CONCLUSIONS Aerobic exercise effectively reverses the decline in endurance capacity and mitigates muscle atrophy in aged mice. It inhibits CCN2 secretion from senescent MuSCs, thereby enhancing skeletal muscle regeneration and preventing fibrosis in aged mice. AICAR supplementation mimics the beneficial effects of aerobic exercise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Li
- School of Physical Education and Sports Science, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Fulong Zhang
- School of Physical Education and Sports Science, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
- School of Physical Education, Shanxi Datong University, Datong, China
| | - Haiwang Shi
- School of Physical Education and Sports Science, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Honglin Xia
- School of Physical Education and Sports Science, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Xiaobei Wei
- School of Physical Education and Sports Science, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Siqi Liu
- School of Physical Education and Sports Science, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Tao Wu
- School of Physical Education and Sports Science, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Yuecheng Li
- School of Physical Education and Sports Science, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Feng Shu
- School of Physical Education and Sports Science, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Mengjie Chen
- School of Physical Education and Sports Science, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Jie Li
- School of Physical Education and Sports Science, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Rui Duan
- School of Physical Education and Sports Science, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
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11
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Mignini I, Blasi V, Termite F, Esposto G, Borriello R, Laterza L, Scaldaferri F, Ainora ME, Gasbarrini A, Zocco MA. Fibrostenosing Crohn's Disease: Pathogenetic Mechanisms and New Therapeutic Horizons. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6326. [PMID: 38928032 PMCID: PMC11204249 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25126326] [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: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Bowel strictures are well recognized as one of the most severe complications in Crohn's disease, with variable impacts on the prognosis and often needing surgical or endoscopic treatment. Distinguishing inflammatory strictures from fibrotic ones is of primary importance due to the different therapeutic approaches required. Indeed, to better understand the pathogenesis of fibrosis, it is crucial to investigate molecular processes involving genetic factors, cytokines, alteration of the intestinal barrier, and epithelial and endothelial damage, leading to an increase in extracellular matrix synthesis, which ultimately ends in fibrosis. In such a complex mechanism, the gut microbiota also seems to play a role. A better comprehension of molecular processes underlying bowel fibrosis, in addition to radiological and histopathological findings, has led to the identification of high-risk patients for personalized follow-up and testing of new therapies, primarily in preclinical models, targeting specific pathways involving Transforming Growth Factor-β, interleukins, extracellular matrix balance, and gut microbiota. Our review aims to summarize current evidence about molecular factors involved in intestinal fibrosis' pathogenesis, paving the way for potential diagnostic biomarkers or anti-fibrotic treatments for stricturing Crohn's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Maria Assunta Zocco
- CEMAD Digestive Diseases Center, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario “A. Gemelli” IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00168 Rome, Italy; (I.M.); (V.B.); (G.E.); (R.B.); (L.L.); (F.S.); (M.E.A.); (A.G.)
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12
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Ando T, Takazawa I, Spencer ZT, Ito R, Tomimori Y, Mikulski Z, Matsumoto K, Ishitani T, Denson LA, Kawakami Y, Kawakami Y, Kitaura J, Ahmed Y, Kawakami T. Ileal Crohn's Disease Exhibits Reduced Activity of Phospholipase C-β3-Dependent Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling Pathway. Cells 2024; 13:986. [PMID: 38891118 PMCID: PMC11171731 DOI: 10.3390/cells13110986] [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: 05/06/2024] [Revised: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Crohn's disease is a chronic, debilitating, inflammatory bowel disease. Here, we report a critical role of phospholipase C-β3 (PLC-β3) in intestinal homeostasis. In PLC-β3-deficient mice, exposure to oral dextran sodium sulfate induced lethality and severe inflammation in the small intestine. The lethality was due to PLC-β3 deficiency in multiple non-hematopoietic cell types. PLC-β3 deficiency resulted in reduced Wnt/β-catenin signaling, which is essential for homeostasis and the regeneration of the intestinal epithelium. PLC-β3 regulated the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in small intestinal epithelial cells (IECs) at transcriptional, epigenetic, and, potentially, protein-protein interaction levels. PLC-β3-deficient IECs were unable to respond to stimulation by R-spondin 1, an enhancer of Wnt/β-catenin signaling. Reduced expression of PLC-β3 and its signature genes was found in biopsies of patients with ileal Crohn's disease. PLC-β regulation of Wnt signaling was evolutionally conserved in Drosophila. Our data indicate that a reduction in PLC-β3-mediated Wnt/β-catenin signaling contributes to the pathogenesis of ileal Crohn's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomoaki Ando
- Laboratory of Allergic Diseases, Center for Autoimmunity and Inflammation, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA; (T.A.)
- Atopy Research Center, Graduate School of Medicine, Juntendo University, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan
| | - Ikuo Takazawa
- Laboratory of Allergic Diseases, Center for Autoimmunity and Inflammation, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA; (T.A.)
| | - Zachary T. Spencer
- Department of Molecular and Systems Biology and the Dartmouth Cancer Center, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH 03755, USA; (Z.T.S.)
| | - Ryoji Ito
- Laboratory of Allergic Diseases, Center for Autoimmunity and Inflammation, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA; (T.A.)
- Central Institute for Experimental Animals, Kawasaki 210-0821, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Yoshiaki Tomimori
- Laboratory of Allergic Diseases, Center for Autoimmunity and Inflammation, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA; (T.A.)
| | - Zbigniew Mikulski
- Imaging Facility, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Kenji Matsumoto
- Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, Tokyo 157-8535, Japan
| | - Tohru Ishitani
- Institute for Molecular and Cellular Regulation, Gunma University, Maebashi 371-0044, Gunma, Japan
| | - Lee A. Denson
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| | - Yu Kawakami
- Laboratory of Allergic Diseases, Center for Autoimmunity and Inflammation, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA; (T.A.)
| | - Yuko Kawakami
- Laboratory of Allergic Diseases, Center for Autoimmunity and Inflammation, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA; (T.A.)
| | - Jiro Kitaura
- Atopy Research Center, Graduate School of Medicine, Juntendo University, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan
| | - Yashi Ahmed
- Department of Molecular and Systems Biology and the Dartmouth Cancer Center, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH 03755, USA; (Z.T.S.)
| | - Toshiaki Kawakami
- Laboratory of Allergic Diseases, Center for Autoimmunity and Inflammation, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA; (T.A.)
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13
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Naillat F, Deshar G, Hankkila A, Rak-Raszewska A, Sharma A, Prunskaite-Hyyrylainen R, Railo A, Shan J, Vainio SJ. Calcium signaling induces partial EMT and renal fibrosis in a Wnt4 mCherry knock-in mouse model. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2024; 1870:167180. [PMID: 38653356 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2024.167180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
The renal tubular epithelial cells (TEC) have a strong capacity for repair after acute injury, but when this mechanism becomes uncontrollable, it leads to chronic kidney diseases (CKD). Indeed, in progress toward CKDs, the TECs may dedifferentiate, undergo epithelial-to-mesenchyme transition (EMT), and promote inflammation and fibrosis. Given the critical role of Wnt4 signaling in kidney ontogenesis, we addressed whether changes in this signaling are connected to renal inflammation and fibrosis by taking advantage of a knock-in Wnt4mCh/mCh mouse. While the Wnt4mCh/mCh embryos appeared normal, the corresponding mice, within one month, developed CKD-related phenotypes, such as pro-inflammatory responses including T-cell/macrophage influx, expression of fibrotic markers, and epithelial cell damage with a partial EMT. The Wnt signal transduction component β-catenin remained unchanged, while calcium signaling is induced in the injured TECs involving Nfat and Tfeb transcription factors. We propose that the Wnt4 signaling pathway is involved in repairing the renal injury, and when the signal is overdriven, CKD is established.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florence Naillat
- Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Oulu, Finland.
| | - Ganga Deshar
- Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Oulu, Finland
| | - Anni Hankkila
- Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Oulu, Finland
| | | | - Abhishek Sharma
- Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Oulu, Finland
| | | | - Antti Railo
- Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Oulu, Finland
| | - Jingdong Shan
- Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Oulu, Finland
| | - Seppo J Vainio
- Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Oulu, Finland; Infotech Oulu, Kvantum Institute, University of Oulu, Finland
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14
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Rajalekshmi R, Agrawal DK. Understanding Fibrous Tissue in the Effective Healing of Rotator Cuff Injury. JOURNAL OF SURGERY AND RESEARCH 2024; 7:215-228. [PMID: 38872898 PMCID: PMC11174978 DOI: 10.26502/jsr.10020363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
The rotator cuff is a crucial group of muscles and tendons in the shoulder complex that plays a significant role in the stabilization of the glenohumeral joint and enabling a wide range of motion. Rotator cuff tendon tears can occur due to sudden injuries or degenerative processes that develop gradually over time, whether they are partial or full thickness. These injuries are common causes of shoulder pain and functional impairment, and their complex nature highlights the essential role of the rotator cuff in shoulder function. Scar formation is a crucial aspect of the healing process initiated following a rotator cuff tendon tear, but excessive fibrous tissue development can potentially lead to stiffness, discomfort, and movement limitations. Age is a critical risk factor, with the prevalence of these tears increasing among older individuals. This comprehensive review aims to delve deeper into the anatomy and injury mechanisms of the rotator cuff. Furthermore, it will inspect the signaling pathways involved in fibrous tissue development, evaluate the various factors affecting the healing environment, and discuss proactive measures aimed at reducing excessive fibrous tissue formation. Lastly, this review identifed gaps within existing knowledge to advance methods for better management of rotator cuff tendon injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Resmi Rajalekshmi
- Department of Translational Research, College of the Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, California USA
| | - Devendra K Agrawal
- Department of Translational Research, College of the Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, California USA
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15
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Somanader DVN, Zhao P, Widdop RE, Samuel CS. The involvement of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling cascade in fibrosis progression and its therapeutic targeting by relaxin. Biochem Pharmacol 2024; 223:116130. [PMID: 38490518 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2024.116130] [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: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
Organ scarring, referred to as fibrosis, results from a failed wound-healing response to chronic tissue injury and is characterised by the aberrant accumulation of various extracellular matrix (ECM) components. Once established, fibrosis is recognised as a hallmark of stiffened and dysfunctional tissues, hence, various fibrosis-related diseases collectively contribute to high morbidity and mortality in developed countries. Despite this, these diseases are ineffectively treated by currently-available medications. The pro-fibrotic cytokine, transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1, has emerged as the master regulator of fibrosis progression, owing to its ability to promote various factors and processes that facilitate rapid ECM synthesis and deposition, whilst negating ECM degradation. TGF-β1 signal transduction is tightly controlled by canonical (Smad-dependent) and non-canonical (MAP kinase- and Rho-associated protein kinase-dependent) intracellular protein activity, whereas its pro-fibrotic actions can also be facilitated by the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. This review outlines the pathological sequence of events and contributing roles of TGF-β1 in the progression of fibrosis, and how the Wnt/β-catenin pathway contributes to tissue repair in acute disease settings, but to fibrosis and related tissue dysfunction in synergy with TGF-β1 in chronic diseases. It also outlines the anti-fibrotic and related signal transduction mechanisms of the hormone, relaxin, that are mediated via its negative modulation of TGF-β1 and Wnt/β-catenin signaling, but through the promotion of Wnt/β-catenin activity in acute disease settings. Collectively, this highlights that the crosstalk between TGF-β1 signal transduction and the Wnt/β-catenin cascade may provide a therapeutic target that can be exploited to broadly treat and reverse established fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deidree V N Somanader
- Cardiovascular Disease Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Peishen Zhao
- Drug Discovery Biology Program, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Robert E Widdop
- Cardiovascular Disease Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Chrishan S Samuel
- Cardiovascular Disease Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia; Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia.
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16
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Al B, Traidl S, Holzscheck N, Freimooser S, Mießner H, Reuter H, Dittrich-Breiholz O, Werfel T, Seidel JA. Single-cell RNA sequencing reveals 2D cytokine assay can model atopic dermatitis more accurately than immune-competent 3D setup. Exp Dermatol 2024; 33:e15077. [PMID: 38711200 DOI: 10.1111/exd.15077] [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: 01/08/2024] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
Modelling atopic dermatitis (AD) in vitro is paramount to understand the disease pathophysiology and identify novel treatments. Previous studies have shown that the Th2 cytokines IL-4 and IL-13 induce AD-like features in keratinocytes in vitro. However, it has not been systematically researched whether the addition of Th2 cells, their supernatants or a 3D structure is superior to model AD compared to simple 2D cell culture with cytokines. For the first time, we investigated what in vitro option most closely resembles the disease in vivo based on single-cell RNA sequencing data (scRNA-seq) obtained from skin biopsies in a clinical study and published datasets of healthy and AD donors. In vitro models were generated with primary fibroblasts and keratinocytes, subjected to cytokine treatment or Th2 cell cocultures in 2D/3D. Gene expression changes were assessed using qPCR and Multiplex Immunoassays. Of all cytokines tested, incubation of keratinocytes and fibroblasts with IL-4 and IL-13 induced the closest in vivo-like AD phenotype which was observed in the scRNA-seq data. Addition of Th2 cells to fibroblasts failed to model AD due to the downregulation of ECM-associated genes such as POSTN. While keratinocytes cultured in 3D showed better stratification than in 2D, changes induced with AD triggers did not better resemble AD keratinocyte subtypes observed in vivo. Taken together, our comprehensive study shows that the simple model using IL-4 or IL-13 in 2D most accurately models AD in fibroblasts and keratinocytes in vitro, which may aid the discovery of novel treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Al
- Discovery, Beiersdorf AG, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Stephan Traidl
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | | | - Sina Freimooser
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | | | | | | | - Thomas Werfel
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
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17
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Werner W, Kuzminskaya M, Lurje I, Tacke F, Hammerich L. Overcoming Resistance to Immune Checkpoint Blockade in Liver Cancer with Combination Therapy: Stronger Together? Semin Liver Dis 2024; 44:159-179. [PMID: 38806159 PMCID: PMC11245330 DOI: 10.1055/a-2334-8311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
Primary liver cancer, represented mainly by hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), is one of the most common and deadliest tumors worldwide. While surgical resection or liver transplantation are the best option in early disease stages, these tumors often present in advanced stages and systemic treatment is required to improve survival time. The emergence of immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy has had a positive impact especially on the treatment of advanced cancers, thereby establishing immunotherapy as part of first-line treatment in HCC and CCA. Nevertheless, low response rates reflect on the usually cold or immunosuppressed tumor microenvironment of primary liver cancer. In this review, we aim to summarize mechanisms of resistance leading to tumor immune escape with a special focus on the composition of tumor microenvironment in both HCC and CCA, also reflecting on recent important developments in ICI combination therapy. Furthermore, we discuss how combination of ICIs with established primary liver cancer treatments (e.g. multikinase inhibitors and chemotherapy) as well as more complex combinations with state-of-the-art therapeutic concepts may reshape the tumor microenvironment, leading to higher response rates and long-lasting antitumor immunity for primary liver cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wiebke Werner
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Charité Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Maria Kuzminskaya
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Charité Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Isabella Lurje
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Charité Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Frank Tacke
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Charité Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Linda Hammerich
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Charité Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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18
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Li X, Chen Y, Lu R, Hu M, Gu L, Huang Q, Meng W, Zhu H, Fan C, Zhou Z, Mo X. Colorectal cancer cells secreting DKK4 transform fibroblasts to promote tumour metastasis. Oncogene 2024; 43:1506-1521. [PMID: 38519641 PMCID: PMC11090838 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-024-03008-1] [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: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
Wnt/β-catenin signalling is aberrantly activated in most colorectal cancer (CRC) and is one key driver involved in the initiation and progression of CRC. However, mutations of APC gene in CRC patients retain certain activity of APC protein with decreased β-catenin signalling and DKK4 expression significantly upregulates and represses Wnt/β-catenin signalling in human CRC tissues, suggesting that a precisely modulated activation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway is essential for CRC formation and progression. The underlying reasons why a specifically reduced degree, not a fully activating degree, of β-catenin signalling in CRC are unclear. Here, we showed that a soluble extracellular inhibitor of Wnt/β-catenin signalling, DKK4, is an independent factor for poor outcomes in CRC patients. DKK4 secreted from CRC cells inactivates β-catenin in fibroblasts to induce the formation of stress fibre-containing fibroblasts and myofibroblasts in culture conditions and in mouse CRC xenograft tissues, resulting in restricted expansion in tumour masses at primary sites and enhanced CRC metastasis in mouse models. Reduced β-catenin activity by a chemical inhibitor MSAB promoted the CRC metastasis. Our findings demonstrate why reduced β-catenin activity is needed for CRC progression and provide a mechanism by which interactions between CRC cells and stromal cells affect disease promotion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Li
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Laboratory of Stem Cell Biology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yulin Chen
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Laboratory of Stem Cell Biology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Ran Lu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Laboratory of Stem Cell Biology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Min Hu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Laboratory of Stem Cell Biology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Lei Gu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Laboratory of Stem Cell Biology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Qiaorong Huang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Laboratory of Stem Cell Biology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Wentong Meng
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Laboratory of Stem Cell Biology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Hongyan Zhu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Laboratory of Stem Cell Biology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Chuanwen Fan
- Department of Gastrointestinal, Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery, Research Center for Nutrition, Metabolism & Food Safety, West China-PUMC C.C. Chen Institute of Health, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
- Institute of Digestive Surgery and Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
| | - Zongguang Zhou
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Laboratory of Stem Cell Biology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
- Institute of Digestive Surgery and Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
| | - Xianming Mo
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Laboratory of Stem Cell Biology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
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19
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Lee B, Roh JS, Jeong H, Kim Y, Lee J, Yun C, Park J, Kim DS, Lee J, So MW, Kim A, Sohn DH, Lee SG. Ginkgo biloba extract ameliorates skin fibrosis in a bleomycin-induced mouse model of systemic sclerosis. Anim Cells Syst (Seoul) 2024; 28:152-160. [PMID: 38645438 PMCID: PMC11028018 DOI: 10.1080/19768354.2024.2337761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/24/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by skin and internal organ fibrosis and obliterative vasculopathy. Few effective treatments are currently available for fibrosis in SSc, therefore, demand persists for novel therapies. Although use of Ginkgo biloba extract (GBE) has been reported to improve blood circulation and alleviate liver and lung fibrosis, its effect on skin fibrosis in SSc remains unclear. In this study, the effects and underlying mechanisms of GBE on skin fibrosis in bleomycin (BLM)-induced mouse model of SSc was investigated. GBE significantly reduced dermal thickness and protein levels of profibrotic factors in the BLM-induced SSc mouse model. Moreover, GBE inhibited the gene expression of profibrotic factors, such as COL1A1, α-SMA, and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), in fibroblasts by suppressing transforming growth factor (TGF)-β signaling. Furthermore, GBE inhibited the transdifferentiation of adipocytes into myofibroblasts. Thus, our findings suggest that GBE is a promising therapeutic candidate for the treatment of SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beomgu Lee
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Yangsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong Seong Roh
- Department of Herbal Prescription, College of Korean Medicine, Daegu Haany University, Gyeongsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Hoim Jeong
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Yangsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Yerin Kim
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Yangsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Jihyeon Lee
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Yangsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Changun Yun
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Yangsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Jiyoung Park
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Information and Biotechnology, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology, Ulsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Da-sol Kim
- Department of Dermatology, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Yangsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Jungsoo Lee
- Department of Dermatology, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Yangsan, Republic of Korea
- Research Institute for Convergence of Biomedical Science and Technology, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Yangsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Min Wook So
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Yangsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Aran Kim
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Pusan National University Hospital, Busan, Republic of Korea
- Biomedical Research Institute, Pusan National University Hospital, Busan, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong Hyun Sohn
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Yangsan, Republic of Korea
- Research Institute for Convergence of Biomedical Science and Technology, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Yangsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung-Geun Lee
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Pusan National University Hospital, Busan, Republic of Korea
- Biomedical Research Institute, Pusan National University Hospital, Busan, Republic of Korea
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20
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Song J, Chen Y, Chen Y, Qiu M, Xiang W, Ke B, Fang X. Wnt/β-catenin Pathway Aggravates Renal Fibrosis by Activating PUM2 Transcription to Repress YME1L-mediated Mitochondrial Homeostasis. Biochem Genet 2024:10.1007/s10528-024-10756-y. [PMID: 38564095 DOI: 10.1007/s10528-024-10756-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects more than 10% of people worldwide and is a leading cause of death. However, the pathogenesis of CKD remains elusive. The oxidative stress and mitochondrial membrane potential were detected using Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and JC-1 assay. Co-immunoprecipitation, dual-luciferase assay, chromatin IP, RNA IP and RNA pull-down were used to validate the interactions among genes. Exploiting a H2O2-induced fibrosis model in vitro, PUM2 expression was upregulated in Human kidney 2 cell (HK-2) cells, along with reduced cell viability, enhanced oxidative stress, impaired mitochondrial potential, and upregulated expressions of fibrosis-associated proteins. While PUM2 knockdown reversed the H2O2-induced injury in HK-2 cells. Mechanically, Wnt/β-catenin pathway activated PUM2 transcription via TCF4. It was further identified that Wnt/β-catenin pathway inhibited YME1L expression through PUM2-mediated destabilizing of its mRNA. PUM2 aggravated H2O2-induced oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and renal fibrosis in HK-2 cell via suppressing YME1L expression. Our study revealed that Wnt/β-catenin aggravated renal fibrosis by activating PUM2 transcription to repress YME1L-mediated mitochondrial homeostasis, providing novel insights and potential therapeutic targets for the treatment of kidney fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianling Song
- Department of Nephrology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Yanxia Chen
- Department of Nephrology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Yan Chen
- Department of Nephrology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Minzi Qiu
- Department of Nephrology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Wenliu Xiang
- Department of Nephrology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Ben Ke
- Department of Nephrology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, China.
| | - Xiangdong Fang
- Department of Nephrology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, China.
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21
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Patel M, Post Y, Hill N, Sura A, Ye J, Fisher T, Suen N, Zhang M, Cheng L, Pribluda A, Chen H, Yeh WC, Li Y, Baribault H, Fletcher RB. A WNT mimetic with broad spectrum FZD-specificity decreases fibrosis and improves function in a pulmonary damage model. Respir Res 2024; 25:153. [PMID: 38566174 PMCID: PMC10985870 DOI: 10.1186/s12931-024-02786-2] [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: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Wnt/β-catenin signaling is critical for lung development and AT2 stem cell maintenance in adults, but excessive pathway activation has been associated with pulmonary fibrosis, both in animal models and human diseases such as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). IPF is a detrimental interstitial lung disease, and although two approved drugs limit functional decline, transplantation is the only treatment that extends survival, highlighting the need for regenerative therapies. METHODS Using our antibody-based platform of Wnt/β-catenin modulators, we investigated the ability of a pathway antagonist and pathway activators to reduce pulmonary fibrosis in the acute bleomycin model, and we tested the ability of a WNT mimetic to affect alveolar organoid cultures. RESULTS A WNT mimetic agonist with broad FZD-binding specificity (FZD1,2,5,7,8) potently expanded alveolar organoids. Upon therapeutic dosing, a broad FZD-binding specific Wnt mimetic decreased pulmonary inflammation and fibrosis and increased lung function in the bleomycin model, and it impacted multiple lung cell types in vivo. CONCLUSIONS Our results highlight the unexpected capacity of a WNT mimetic to effect tissue repair after lung damage and support the continued development of Wnt/β-catenin pathway modulation for the treatment of pulmonary fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehaben Patel
- Surrozen, Inc., 171 Oyster Point Blvd, Suite 400, South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA
| | - Yorick Post
- Surrozen, Inc., 171 Oyster Point Blvd, Suite 400, South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA
| | - Natalie Hill
- Surrozen, Inc., 171 Oyster Point Blvd, Suite 400, South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA
| | - Asmiti Sura
- Surrozen, Inc., 171 Oyster Point Blvd, Suite 400, South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA
| | - Jay Ye
- Surrozen, Inc., 171 Oyster Point Blvd, Suite 400, South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA
| | - Trevor Fisher
- Surrozen, Inc., 171 Oyster Point Blvd, Suite 400, South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA
| | - Nicholas Suen
- Surrozen, Inc., 171 Oyster Point Blvd, Suite 400, South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA
| | - Mengrui Zhang
- Surrozen, Inc., 171 Oyster Point Blvd, Suite 400, South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA
| | - Leona Cheng
- Surrozen, Inc., 171 Oyster Point Blvd, Suite 400, South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA
| | - Ariel Pribluda
- Surrozen, Inc., 171 Oyster Point Blvd, Suite 400, South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA
| | - Hui Chen
- Surrozen, Inc., 171 Oyster Point Blvd, Suite 400, South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA
| | - Wen-Chen Yeh
- Surrozen, Inc., 171 Oyster Point Blvd, Suite 400, South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA
| | - Yang Li
- Surrozen, Inc., 171 Oyster Point Blvd, Suite 400, South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA
| | - Hélène Baribault
- Surrozen, Inc., 171 Oyster Point Blvd, Suite 400, South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA
| | - Russell B Fletcher
- Surrozen, Inc., 171 Oyster Point Blvd, Suite 400, South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA.
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22
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Majumder N, Seit S, Bhabesh NS, Ghosh S. An Advanced Bioconjugation Strategy for Covalent Tethering of TGFβ3 with Silk Fibroin Matrices and its Implications in the Chondrogenesis Profile of Human BMSCs and Human Chondrocytes: A Paradigm Shift in Cartilage Tissue Engineering. Adv Healthc Mater 2024; 13:e2303513. [PMID: 38291832 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202303513] [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: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
The transforming growth factor-β class of cytokines plays a significant role in articular cartilage formation from mesenchymal condensation to chondrogenic differentiation. However, their exogenous addition to the chondrogenic media makes the protocol expensive. It reduces the bioavailability of the cytokine to the cells owing to their burst release. The present study demonstrates an advanced bioconjugation strategy to conjugate transforming growth factor-β3 (TGFβ3) with silk fibroin matrix covalently via a cyanuric chloride coupling reaction. The tethering and change in secondary conformation are confirmed using various spectroscopic analyses. To assess the functionality of the chemically modified silk matrix, human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSCs) and chondrocytes are cultured for 28 days in a chondrogenic differentiation medium. Gene expression and histological analysis reveal enhanced expression of chondrogenic markers with intense Safranin-O and Alcian Blue staining in TGFβ3 conjugated silk matrices than where TGFβ3 is exogenously added to the media for both hBMSCs and chondrocytes. Therefore, this study successfully recapitulates the native niche of TGFβ3 and the role of the silk as a growth factor stabilizer. When cultured over TGFβ3 conjugated silk matrices, hBMSCs display increased proteoglycan secretion and maximum chondrogenic trait with attenuation of chondrocyte hypertrophy over human chondrocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nilotpal Majumder
- Department of Textile and Fibre Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, New Delhi, 110016, India
| | - Sinchan Seit
- Department of Textile and Fibre Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, New Delhi, 110016, India
| | - Neel Sarovar Bhabesh
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Transcription Regulation group, New Delhi, 110067, India
| | - Sourabh Ghosh
- Department of Textile and Fibre Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, New Delhi, 110016, India
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23
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Chen HY, Hsieh WC, Liu YC, Li HY, Liu PY, Hsu YT, Hsu SC, Luo AC, Kuo WC, Huang YJ, Liou GG, Lin MY, Ko CJ, Tsai HC, Chang SJ. Mitochondrial injury induced by a Salmonella genotoxin triggers the proinflammatory senescence-associated secretory phenotype. Nat Commun 2024; 15:2778. [PMID: 38555361 PMCID: PMC10981749 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-47190-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Bacterial genotoxins damage host cells by targeting their chromosomal DNA. In the present study, we demonstrate that a genotoxin of Salmonella Typhi, typhoid toxin, triggers the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) by damaging mitochondrial DNA. The actions of typhoid toxin disrupt mitochondrial DNA integrity, leading to mitochondrial dysfunction and disturbance of redox homeostasis. Consequently, it facilitates the release of damaged mitochondrial DNA into the cytosol, activating type I interferon via the cGAS-STING pathway. We also reveal that the GCN2-mediated integrated stress response plays a role in the upregulation of inflammatory components depending on the STING signaling axis. These SASP factors can propagate the senescence effect on T cells, leading to senescence in these cells. These findings provide insights into how a bacterial genotoxin targets mitochondria to trigger a proinflammatory SASP, highlighting a potential therapeutic target for an anti-toxin intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han-Yi Chen
- Graduate Institute of Microbiology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wan-Chen Hsieh
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Chieh Liu
- Graduate Institute of Microbiology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Huei-Ying Li
- Medical Microbiota Center of the First Core Laboratory, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Po-Yo Liu
- Graduate Institute of Microbiology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Ting Hsu
- Graduate Institute of Microbiology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shao-Chun Hsu
- Imaging Core, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - An-Chi Luo
- Imaging Core, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Chen Kuo
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Jhen Huang
- Graduate Institute of Toxicology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Gan-Guang Liou
- Cryo-EM Core, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Meng-Yun Lin
- Graduate Institute of Immunology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Jung Ko
- Graduate Institute of Immunology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hsing-Chen Tsai
- Graduate Institute of Toxicology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Center for Frontier Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shu-Jung Chang
- Graduate Institute of Microbiology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan.
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24
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Guo HL, Liang XS, Zeng XP, Liu Y, Li ZS, Wang LJ, Hu LH. Pirfenidone alleviates chronic pancreatitis via suppressing the activation of pancreatic stellate cells and the M1 polarization of macrophages. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 130:111691. [PMID: 38367466 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.111691] [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: 08/10/2023] [Revised: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024]
Abstract
In the realm of fibroinflammatory conditions, chronic pancreatitis (CP) stands out as a particularly challenging ailment, lacking a dedicated, approved treatment. The potential of Pirfenidone (PFD), a drug originally used for treating idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), in addressing CP's fibrotic aspects has sparked new interest. This investigation focused on the role of PFD in diminishing fibrosis and immune response in CP, using a mouse model induced by caerulein. The research extended to in vitro studies examining the influence of PFD on pancreatic stellate cells' (PSCs) behavior and the polarization of macrophages into M1 and M2 types. Advanced techniques like RNA sequencing and comprehensive data analyses were employed to decode the molecular interactions of PFD with PSCs. Supplementary experiments using techniques such as quantitative real-time PCR, western blotting, and immunofluorescence were also implemented. Results showed a notable reduction in pancreatic damage in PFD-treated mice, manifested through decreased acinar cell atrophy, lower collagen deposition, and a reduction in macrophage presence. Further investigation revealed PFD's capacity to hinder PSCs' migration, growth, and activation, alongside a reduction in the production and secretion of extracellular matrix proteins. This effect is primarily achieved by interfering with signaling pathways such as TGF-β/Smad, Wnt/β-catenin, and JAK/STAT. Additionally, PFD selectively hampers M1 macrophage polarization through the STAT3 pathway, without impacting M2 polarization. These outcomes highlight PFD's dual mechanism in moderating PSC activity and M1 macrophage polarization, positioning it as a promising candidate for CP therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Lei Guo
- Department of Infectious Diseases, First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Institute of Pancreatic Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Xue-Song Liang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiang-Peng Zeng
- Department of Digestive Diseases, No. 900 Hospital of the Joint Logistics Support Force, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Yu Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhao-Shen Li
- Shanghai Institute of Pancreatic Diseases, Shanghai, China; Department of Gastroenterology, First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Li-Juan Wang
- Shanghai Institute of Pancreatic Diseases, Shanghai, China; Department of Gastroenterology, First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Liang-Hao Hu
- Shanghai Institute of Pancreatic Diseases, Shanghai, China; Department of Gastroenterology, First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China.
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25
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Liang M, Dickel N, Györfi AH, SafakTümerdem B, Li YN, Rigau AR, Liang C, Hong X, Shen L, Matei AE, Trinh-Minh T, Tran-Manh C, Zhou X, Zehender A, Kreuter A, Zou H, Schett G, Kunz M, Distler JHW. Attenuation of fibroblast activation and fibrosis by adropin in systemic sclerosis. Sci Transl Med 2024; 16:eadd6570. [PMID: 38536934 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.add6570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
Fibrotic diseases impose a major socioeconomic challenge on modern societies and have limited treatment options. Adropin, a peptide hormone encoded by the energy homeostasis-associated (ENHO) gene, is implicated in metabolism and vascular homeostasis, but its role in the pathogenesis of fibrosis remains enigmatic. Here, we used machine learning approaches in combination with functional in vitro and in vivo experiments to characterize adropin as a potential regulator involved in fibroblast activation and tissue fibrosis in systemic sclerosis (SSc). We demonstrated consistent down-regulation of adropin/ENHO in skin across multiple cohorts of patients with SSc. The prototypical profibrotic cytokine TGFβ reduced adropin/ENHO expression in a JNK-dependent manner. Restoration of adropin signaling by therapeutic application of bioactive adropin34-76 peptides in turn inhibited TGFβ-induced fibroblast activation and fibrotic tissue remodeling in primary human dermal fibroblasts, three-dimensional full-thickness skin equivalents, mouse models of bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis and sclerodermatous chronic graft-versus-host-disease (sclGvHD), and precision-cut human skin slices. Knockdown of GPR19, an adropin receptor, abrogated the antifibrotic effects of adropin in fibroblasts. RNA-seq demonstrated that the antifibrotic effects of adropin34-76 were functionally linked to deactivation of GLI1-dependent profibrotic transcriptional networks, which was experimentally confirmed in vitro, in vivo, and ex vivo using cultured human dermal fibroblasts, a sclGvHD mouse model, and precision-cut human skin slices. ChIP-seq confirmed adropin34-76-induced changes in TGFβ/GLI1 signaling. Our study characterizes the TGFβ-induced down-regulation of adropin/ENHO expression as a potential pathomechanism of SSc as a prototypical systemic fibrotic disease that unleashes uncontrolled activation of profibrotic GLI1 signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minrui Liang
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty of Heinrich Heine University; 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Hiller Research Unit, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty of Heinrich Heine University; 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Division of Rheumatology, Huashan Rare Disease Center, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, 200032 Shanghai, P. R. China
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine 3, Friedrich-Alexander-University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg and University Hospital Erlangen, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Nicholas Dickel
- Chair of Medical Informatics, Friedrich-Alexander University (FAU), Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91058 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Andrea-Hermina Györfi
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty of Heinrich Heine University; 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Hiller Research Unit, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty of Heinrich Heine University; 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine 3, Friedrich-Alexander-University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg and University Hospital Erlangen, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Bilgesu SafakTümerdem
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty of Heinrich Heine University; 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Hiller Research Unit, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty of Heinrich Heine University; 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine 3, Friedrich-Alexander-University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg and University Hospital Erlangen, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Yi-Nan Li
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty of Heinrich Heine University; 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Hiller Research Unit, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty of Heinrich Heine University; 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine 3, Friedrich-Alexander-University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg and University Hospital Erlangen, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Aleix Rius Rigau
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine 3, Friedrich-Alexander-University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg and University Hospital Erlangen, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Chunguang Liang
- Chair of Medical Informatics, Friedrich-Alexander University (FAU), Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91058 Erlangen, Germany
- Institute of Immunology, Jena University Hospital, 07743 Jena, Germany
| | - Xuezhi Hong
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty of Heinrich Heine University; 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Hiller Research Unit, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty of Heinrich Heine University; 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine 3, Friedrich-Alexander-University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg and University Hospital Erlangen, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Lichong Shen
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine 3, Friedrich-Alexander-University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg and University Hospital Erlangen, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Division of Rheumatology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 200001 Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Alexandru-Emil Matei
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty of Heinrich Heine University; 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Hiller Research Unit, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty of Heinrich Heine University; 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine 3, Friedrich-Alexander-University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg and University Hospital Erlangen, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Thuong Trinh-Minh
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty of Heinrich Heine University; 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Hiller Research Unit, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty of Heinrich Heine University; 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine 3, Friedrich-Alexander-University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg and University Hospital Erlangen, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Cuong Tran-Manh
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty of Heinrich Heine University; 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Hiller Research Unit, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty of Heinrich Heine University; 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine 3, Friedrich-Alexander-University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg and University Hospital Erlangen, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Xiang Zhou
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty of Heinrich Heine University; 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Hiller Research Unit, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty of Heinrich Heine University; 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine 3, Friedrich-Alexander-University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg and University Hospital Erlangen, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Ariella Zehender
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine 3, Friedrich-Alexander-University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg and University Hospital Erlangen, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Alexander Kreuter
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology, HELIOS Sankt Elisabeth Klinik Oberhausen, 46045 Oberhausen, Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany
| | - Hejian Zou
- Division of Rheumatology, Huashan Rare Disease Center, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, 200032 Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Georg Schett
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine 3, Friedrich-Alexander-University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg and University Hospital Erlangen, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Meik Kunz
- Chair of Medical Informatics, Friedrich-Alexander University (FAU), Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91058 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Jörg H W Distler
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty of Heinrich Heine University; 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Hiller Research Unit, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty of Heinrich Heine University; 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine 3, Friedrich-Alexander-University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg and University Hospital Erlangen, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
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Sui H, Dou J, Shi B, Cheng X. The reciprocity of skeletal muscle and bone: an evolving view from mechanical coupling, secretory crosstalk to stem cell exchange. Front Physiol 2024; 15:1349253. [PMID: 38505709 PMCID: PMC10949226 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2024.1349253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Muscle and bone constitute the two main parts of the musculoskeletal system and generate an intricately coordinated motion system. The crosstalk between muscle and bone has been under investigation, leading to revolutionary perspectives in recent years. Method and results: In this review, the evolving concept of muscle-bone interaction from mechanical coupling, secretory crosstalk to stem cell exchange was explained in sequence. The theory of mechanical coupling stems from the observation that the development and maintenance of bone mass are largely dependent on muscle-derived mechanical loads, which was later proved by Wolff's law, Utah paradigm and Mechanostat hypothesis. Then bone and muscle are gradually recognized as endocrine organs, which can secrete various cytokines to modulate the tissue homeostasis and remodeling to each other. The latest view presented muscle-bone interaction in a more direct way: the resident mesenchymal stromal cell in the skeletal muscle, i.e., fibro-adipogenic progenitors (FAPs), could migrate to the bone injury site and contribute to bone regeneration. Emerging evidence even reveals the ectopic source of FAPs from tissue outside the musculoskeletal system, highlighting its dynamic property. Conclusion: FAPs have been established as the critical cell connecting muscle and bone, which provides a new modality to study inter-tissue communication. A comprehensive and integrated perspective of muscle and bone will facilitate in-depth research in the musculoskeletal system and promote novel therapeutic avenues in treating musculoskeletal disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Xu Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China School of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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Jussila A, Zhang B, Kirti S, Atit R. Tissue fibrosis associated depletion of lipid-filled cells. Exp Dermatol 2024; 33:e15054. [PMID: 38519432 PMCID: PMC10977660 DOI: 10.1111/exd.15054] [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: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/24/2024]
Abstract
Fibrosis is primarily described as the deposition of excessive extracellular matrix, but in many tissues it also involves a loss of lipid or lipid-filled cells. Lipid-filled cells are critical to tissue function and integrity in many tissues including the skin and lungs. Thus, loss or depletion of lipid-filled cells during fibrogenesis, has implications for tissue function. In some contexts, lipid-filled cells can impact ECM composition and stability, highlighting their importance in fibrotic transformation. Recent papers in fibrosis address this newly recognized fibrotic lipodystrophy phenomenon. Even in disparate tissues, common mechanisms are emerging to explain fibrotic lipodystrophy. These findings have implications for fibrosis in tissues composed of fibroblast and lipid-filled cell populations such as skin, lung, and liver. In this review, we will discuss the roles of lipid-containing cells, their reduction/loss during fibrotic transformation, and the mechanisms of that loss in the skin and lungs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Jussila
- Department of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Brian Zhang
- Department of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Sakin Kirti
- Department of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Radhika Atit
- Department of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
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28
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Liu W, Li W, Zhao Z. Single-Cell Transcriptomics Reveals Pre-existing COVID-19 Vulnerability Factors in Lung Cancer Patients. Mol Cancer Res 2024; 22:240-253. [PMID: 38063850 PMCID: PMC10922768 DOI: 10.1158/1541-7786.mcr-23-0692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024]
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and cancer are major health threats, and individuals may develop both simultaneously. Recent studies have indicated that patients with cancer are particularly vulnerable to COVID-19, but the molecular mechanisms underlying the associations remain poorly understood. To address this knowledge gap, we collected single-cell RNA-sequencing data from COVID-19, lung adenocarcinoma, small cell lung carcinoma patients, and normal lungs to perform an integrated analysis. We characterized altered cell populations, gene expression, and dysregulated intercellular communication in diseases. Our analysis identified pathologic conditions shared by COVID-19 and lung cancer, including upregulated TMPRSS2 expression in epithelial cells, stronger inflammatory responses mediated by macrophages, increased T-cell response suppression, and elevated fibrosis risk by pathologic fibroblasts. These pre-existing conditions in patients with lung cancer may lead to more severe inflammation, fibrosis, and weakened adaptive immune response upon COVID-19 infection. Our findings revealed potential molecular mechanisms driving an increased COVID-19 risk in patients with lung cancer and suggested preventive and therapeutic targets for COVID-19 in this population. IMPLICATIONS Our work reveals the potential molecular mechanisms contributing to the vulnerability to COVID-19 in patients with lung cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wendao Liu
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Houston Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Center for Precision Health, McWilliams School of Biomedical Informatics, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Wenbo Li
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Houston Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Zhongming Zhao
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Houston Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Center for Precision Health, McWilliams School of Biomedical Informatics, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Human Genetics Center, School of Public Health, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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29
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Ganesan S, Dharmarajan A, Sudhir G, Perumalsamy LR. Unravelling the Road to Recovery: Mechanisms of Wnt Signalling in Spinal Cord Injury. Mol Neurobiol 2024:10.1007/s12035-024-04055-1. [PMID: 38421469 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-024-04055-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a complex neurodegenerative pathology that consistently harbours a poor prognostic outcome. At present, there are few therapeutic strategies that can halt neuronal cell death and facilitate functional motor recovery. However, recent studies have highlighted the Wnt pathway as a key promoter of axon regeneration following central nervous system (CNS) injuries. Emerging evidence also suggests that the temporal dysregulation of Wnt may drive cell death post-SCI. A major challenge in SCI treatment resides in developing therapeutics that can effectively target inflammation and facilitate glial scar repair. Before Wnt signalling is exploited for SCI therapy, further research is needed to clarify the implications of Wnt on neuroinflammation during chronic stages of injury. In this review, an attempt is made to dissect the impact of canonical and non-canonical Wnt pathways in relation to individual aspects of glial and fibrotic scar formation. Furthermore, it is also highlighted how modulating Wnt activity at chronic time points may aid in limiting lesion expansion and promoting axonal repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suchita Ganesan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Sri Ramachandra Faculty of Biomedical Sciences and Technology, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, India
| | - Arun Dharmarajan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Sri Ramachandra Faculty of Biomedical Sciences and Technology, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, India
- Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin University, Bentley, Perth, WA, 6102, Australia
- Curtin Medical School, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
- School of Human Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
- Sri Ramachandra Faculty of Clinical Research, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, India
| | - G Sudhir
- Department of Orthopedics and Spine Surgery, Sri Ramachandra Medical College and Research Institute, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, India.
| | - Lakshmi R Perumalsamy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Sri Ramachandra Faculty of Biomedical Sciences and Technology, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, India.
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Jiang Z, Zhou W, Tian X, Zou P, Li N, Zhang C, Li Y, Liu G. A Protective Role of Canonical Wnt/ β-Catenin Pathway in Pathogenic Bacteria-Induced Inflammatory Responses. Mediators Inflamm 2024; 2024:8869510. [PMID: 38445290 PMCID: PMC10914433 DOI: 10.1155/2024/8869510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Inflammation is a complex host defensive response against various disease-associated pathogens. A baseline extent of inflammation is supposed to be tightly associated with a sequence of immune-modulated processes, resulting in the protection of the host organism against pathogen invasion; however, as a matter of fact is that an uncontrolled inflammatory cascade is the main factor responsible for the host damage, accordingly suggesting a significant and indispensable involvement of negative feedback mechanism in modulation of inflammation. Evidence accumulated so far has supported a repressive effect of the canonical Wnt/β-catenin pathway on microbial-triggered inflammation via diverse mechanisms, although that consequence is dependent on the cellular context, types of stimuli, and cytokine environment. It is of particular interest and importance to comprehend the precise way in which the Wnt/β-catenin pathway is activated, due to its essential anti-inflammatory properties. It is assumed that an inflammatory milieu is necessary for initiating and activating this signaling, implying that Wnt activity is responsible for shielding tissues from overwhelming inflammation, thus sustaining a balanced physiological condition against bacterial infection. This review gathers the recent efforts to elucidate the mechanistic details through how Wnt/β-catenin signaling modulates anti-inflammatory responses in response to bacterial infection and its interactions with other inflammatory signals, which warrants further study for the development of specific interventions for the treatment of inflammatory diseases. Further clinical trials from different disease settings are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongjia Jiang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shenyang Medical College, Shenyang 110034, China
- Key Laboratory of Environment Pollution and Microecology of Liaoning Province, Shenyang 110034, China
| | - Weiping Zhou
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Shenyang Medical College, Shenyang 110034, China
| | - Xing Tian
- Department of Physiology, Shenyang Medical College, Shenyang 110034, China
| | - Peng Zou
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shenyang Medical College, Shenyang 110034, China
| | - Ning Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shenyang Medical College, Shenyang 110034, China
| | - Chunmeng Zhang
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Shenyang Medical College, Shenyang 110034, China
| | - Yanting Li
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Shenyang Medical College, Shenyang 110034, China
| | - Guangyan Liu
- Key Laboratory of Environment Pollution and Microecology of Liaoning Province, Shenyang 110034, China
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Shenyang Medical College, Shenyang 110034, China
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31
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Stoykova ID, Koycheva IK, Binev BK, Mihaylova LV, Benina MY, Alipieva KI, Georgiev MI. Myconoside and Calceolarioside E Restrain UV-Induced Skin Photoaging by Activating NRF2-Mediated Defense Mechanisms. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2441. [PMID: 38397118 PMCID: PMC10888667 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25042441] [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: 01/16/2024] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Chronic and excessive ultraviolet (UVA/UVB) irradiation exposure is known as a major contributor to premature skin aging, which leads to excessive reactive oxygen species generation, disturbed extracellular matrix homeostasis, DNA damage, and chronic inflammation. Sunscreen products are the major preventive option against UVR-induced photodamage, mostly counteracting the acute skin effects and only mildly counteracting accelerated aging. Therefore, novel anti-photoaging and photopreventive compounds are a subject of increased scientific interest. Our previous investigations revealed that the endemic plant Haberlea rhodopensis Friv. (HRE) activates the antioxidant defense through an NRF2-mediated mechanism in neutrophiles. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the photoprotective potential of HRE and two of its specialized compounds-the phenylethanoid glycosides myconoside (MYC) and calceolarioside E (CAL)-in UVA/UVB-stimulated human keratinocytes in an in vitro model of photoaging. The obtained data demonstrated that the application of HRE, MYC, and CAL significantly reduced intracellular ROS formation in UVR-exposed HaCaT cells. The NRF2/PGC-1α and TGF-1β/Smad/Wnt signaling pathways were pointed out as having a critical role in the observed CAL- and MYC-induced photoprotective effect. Collectively, CAL is worth further evaluation as a potent natural NRF2 activator and a promising photoprotective agent that leads to the prevention of UVA/UVB-induced premature skin aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iva D. Stoykova
- Center of Plant Systems Biology and Biotechnology, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria (L.V.M.)
- Laboratory of Metabolomics, Institute of Microbiology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 139 Ruski Blvd., 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Ivanka K. Koycheva
- Laboratory of Metabolomics, Institute of Microbiology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 139 Ruski Blvd., 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Biser K. Binev
- Laboratory of Metabolomics, Institute of Microbiology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 139 Ruski Blvd., 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Liliya V. Mihaylova
- Center of Plant Systems Biology and Biotechnology, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria (L.V.M.)
- Laboratory of Metabolomics, Institute of Microbiology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 139 Ruski Blvd., 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Maria Y. Benina
- Center of Plant Systems Biology and Biotechnology, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria (L.V.M.)
| | - Kalina I. Alipieva
- Institute of Organic Chemistry with Centre of Phytochemistry, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Milen I. Georgiev
- Center of Plant Systems Biology and Biotechnology, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria (L.V.M.)
- Laboratory of Metabolomics, Institute of Microbiology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 139 Ruski Blvd., 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
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Frech S, Lichtenberger BM. Modulating embryonic signaling pathways paves the way for regeneration in wound healing. Front Physiol 2024; 15:1367425. [PMID: 38434140 PMCID: PMC10904466 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2024.1367425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Epithelial tissues, including the skin, are highly proliferative tissues with the capability to constant renewal and regeneration, a feature that is essential for survival as the skin forms a protective barrier against external insults and water loss. In adult mammalian skin, every injury will lead to a scar. The scar tissue that is produced to seal the wound efficiently is usually rigid and lacks elasticity and the skin's original resilience to external impacts, but also secondary appendages such as hair follicles and sebaceous glands. While it was long thought that hair follicles develop solely during embryogenesis, it is becoming increasingly clear that hair follicles can also regenerate within a wound. The ability of the skin to induce hair neogenesis following injury however declines with age. As fetal and neonatal skin have the remarkable capacity to heal without scarring, the recapitulation of a neonatal state has been a primary target of recent regenerative research. In this review we highlight how modulating dermal signaling or the abundance of specific fibroblast subsets could be utilized to induce de novo hair follicles within the wound bed, and thus to shift wound repair with a scar to scarless regeneration.
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Boo YC. Therapeutic Potential and Mechanisms of Rosmarinic Acid and the Extracts of Lamiaceae Plants for the Treatment of Fibrosis of Various Organs. Antioxidants (Basel) 2024; 13:146. [PMID: 38397744 PMCID: PMC10886237 DOI: 10.3390/antiox13020146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis, which causes structural hardening and functional degeneration in various organs, is characterized by the excessive production and accumulation of connective tissue containing collagen, alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), etc. In traditional medicine, extracts of medicinal plants or herbal prescriptions have been used to treat various fibrotic diseases. The purpose of this narrative review is to discuss the antifibrotic effects of rosmarinic acid (RA) and plant extracts that contain RA, as observed in various experimental models. RA, as well as the extracts of Glechoma hederacea, Melissa officinalis, Elsholtzia ciliata, Lycopus lucidus, Ocimum basilicum, Prunella vulgaris, Salvia rosmarinus (Rosmarinus officinalis), Salvia miltiorrhiza, and Perilla frutescens, have been shown to attenuate fibrosis of the liver, kidneys, heart, lungs, and abdomen in experimental animal models. Their antifibrotic effects were associated with the attenuation of oxidative stress, inflammation, cell activation, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and fibrogenic gene expression. RA treatment activated peroxisomal proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ), 5' AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) while suppressing the transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) and Wnt signaling pathways. Interestingly, most plants that are reported to contain RA and exhibit antifibrotic activity belong to the family Lamiaceae. This suggests that RA is an active ingredient for the antifibrotic effect of Lamiaceae plants and that these plants are a useful source of RA. In conclusion, accumulating scientific evidence supports the effectiveness of RA and Lamiaceae plant extracts in alleviating fibrosis and maintaining the structural architecture and normal functions of various organs under pathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Chool Boo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, 680 Gukchaebosang-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu 41944, Republic of Korea;
- BK21 Plus KNU Biomedical Convergence Program, Department of Biomedical Science, The Graduate School, Kyungpook National University, 680 Gukchaebosang-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu 41944, Republic of Korea
- Cell and Matrix Research Institute, Kyungpook National University, 680 Gukchaebosang-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu 41944, Republic of Korea
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Boo YC. Insights into How Plant-Derived Extracts and Compounds Can Help in the Prevention and Treatment of Keloid Disease: Established and Emerging Therapeutic Targets. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1235. [PMID: 38279232 PMCID: PMC10816582 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25021235] [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: 12/28/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 01/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Keloid is a disease in which fibroblasts abnormally proliferate and synthesize excessive amounts of extracellular matrix, including collagen and fibronectin, during the healing process of skin wounds, causing larger scars that exceed the boundaries of the original wound. Currently, surgical excision, cryotherapy, radiation, laser treatment, photodynamic therapy, pressure therapy, silicone gel sheeting, and pharmacotherapy are used alone or in combinations to treat this disease, but the outcomes are usually unsatisfactory. The purpose of this review is to examine whether natural products can help treat keloid disease. I introduce well-established therapeutic targets for this disease and various other emerging therapeutic targets that have been proposed based on the phenotypic difference between keloid-derived fibroblasts (KFs) and normal epidermal fibroblasts (NFs). We then present recent studies on the biological effects of various plant-derived extracts and compounds on KFs and NFs. Associated ex vivo, in vivo, and clinical studies are also presented. Finally, we discuss the mechanisms of action of the plant-derived extracts and compounds, the pros and cons, and the future tasks for natural product-based therapy for keloid disease, as compared with existing other therapies. Extracts of Astragalus membranaceus, Salvia miltiorrhiza, Aneilema keisak, Galla Chinensis, Lycium chinense, Physalis angulate, Allium sepa, and Camellia sinensis appear to modulate cell proliferation, migration, and/or extracellular matrix (ECM) production in KFs, supporting their therapeutic potential. Various phenolic compounds, terpenoids, alkaloids, and other plant-derived compounds could modulate different cell signaling pathways associated with the pathogenesis of keloids. For now, many studies are limited to in vitro experiments; additional research and development are needed to proceed to clinical trials. Many emerging therapeutic targets could accelerate the discovery of plant-derived substances for the prevention and treatment of keloid disease. I hope that this review will bridge past, present, and future research on this subject and provide insight into new therapeutic targets and pharmaceuticals, aiming for effective keloid treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Chool Boo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, 680 Gukchaebosang-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu 41944, Republic of Korea;
- BK21 Plus KNU Biomedical Convergence Program, Department of Biomedical Science, The Graduate School, Kyungpook National University, 680 Gukchaebosang-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu 41944, Republic of Korea
- Cell and Matrix Research Institute, Kyungpook National University, 680 Gukchaebosang-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu 41944, Republic of Korea
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35
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Jimenez SA, Piera-Velazquez S. Cellular Transdifferentiation: A Crucial Mechanism of Fibrosis in Systemic Sclerosis. Curr Rheumatol Rev 2024; 20:388-404. [PMID: 37921216 DOI: 10.2174/0115733971261932231025045400] [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: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
Systemic Sclerosis (SSc) is a systemic autoimmune disease of unknown etiology with a highly complex pathogenesis that despite extensive investigation is not completely understood. The clinical and pathologic manifestations of the disease result from three distinct processes: 1) Severe and frequently progressive tissue fibrosis causing exaggerated and deleterious accumulation of interstitial collagens and other extracellular matrix molecules in the skin and various internal organs; 2) extensive fibroproliferative vascular lesions affecting small arteries and arterioles causing tissue ischemic alterations; and 3) cellular and humoral immunity abnormalities with the production of numerous autoantibodies, some with very high specificity for SSc. The fibrotic process in SSc is one of the main causes of disability and high mortality of the disease. Owing to its essentially universal presence and the severity of its clinical effects, the mechanisms involved in the development and progression of tissue fibrosis have been extensively investigated, however, despite intensive investigation, the precise molecular mechanisms have not been fully elucidated. Several recent studies have suggested that cellular transdifferentiation resulting in the phenotypic conversion of various cell types into activated myofibroblasts may be one important mechanism. Here, we review the potential role that cellular transdifferentiation may play in the development of severe and often progressive tissue fibrosis in SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio A Jimenez
- Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Biology, Jefferson Institute of Molecular Medicine and Scleroderma Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia 19107, USA
| | - Sonsoles Piera-Velazquez
- Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Biology, Jefferson Institute of Molecular Medicine and Scleroderma Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia 19107, USA
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Das P, Majumder R, Sen N, Nandi SK, Ghosh A, Mandal M, Basak P. A computational analysis to evaluate deleterious SNPs of GSK3β, a multifunctional and regulatory protein, for metabolism, wound healing, and migratory processes. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 256:128262. [PMID: 37989431 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.128262] [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: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
This study focused on GSK-3β, a critical serine/threonine kinase with diverse cellular functions. However, there is limited understanding of the impact of non-synonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms (nsSNPs) on its structure and function. Through an exhaustive in-silico investigation 12 harmful nsSNPs were predicted from a pool of 172 acquired from the NCBI dbSNP database using 12 established tools that detects deleterious SNPs. Consistently, these nsSNPs were discovered in locations with high levels of conservation. Notably, the three harmful nsSNPs F67C, A83T, and T138I were situated in the active/binding site of GSK-3β, which may affect the protein's capacity to bind to substrates and other proteins. Molecular dynamics simulations revealed that the F67C and T138I mutants had stable structures, indicating rigidness, whereas the A83T mutant was unstable. Analysis of secondary structures revealed different modifications in all mutant forms, which may affect the stability, functioning, and interactions of the protein. These mutations appear to alter the structural dynamics of GSK-3β, which may have functional ramifications, such as the formation of novel secondary structures and variations in coil-to-helix transitions. In conclusion, this study illuminates the possible structural and functional ramifications of these GSK-3 nsSNPs, revealing how protein compactness, stiffness, and interactions may affect biological activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pratik Das
- School of Bioscience and Engineering, Jadavpur University, Kolkata, India
| | - Ranabir Majumder
- Cancer Biology Lab, School of Medical Science & Technology, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, India
| | - Nandita Sen
- Molecular biology wing, Dept of Biotechnology, PES University, Bangalore, India
| | - Samit Kumar Nandi
- Department of Veterinary Surgery & Radiology, West Bengal University of Animal and Fishery Sciences, Kolkata, India
| | - Arabinda Ghosh
- Department of Computational Biology and Biotechnology, Mahapurusha Srimanta Sankaradeva Viswavidyalaya, Guwahati Unit, Guwahati, Assam, India
| | - Mahitosh Mandal
- Cancer Biology Lab, School of Medical Science & Technology, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, India
| | - Piyali Basak
- School of Bioscience and Engineering, Jadavpur University, Kolkata, India.
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Shakour N, Karami S, Iranshahi M, Butler AE, Sahebkar A. Antifibrotic effects of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors: A comprehensive review. Diabetes Metab Syndr 2024; 18:102934. [PMID: 38154403 DOI: 10.1016/j.dsx.2023.102934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Scar tissue accumulation in organs is the underlying cause of many fibrotic diseases. Due to the extensive array of organs affected, the long-term nature of fibrotic processes and the large number of people who suffer from the negative impact of these diseases, they constitute a serious health problem for modern medicine and a huge economic burden on society. Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) are a relatively new class of anti-diabetic pharmaceuticals that offer additional benefits over and above their glucose-lowering properties; these medications modulate a variety of diseases, including fibrosis. Herein, we have collated and analyzed all available research on SGLT2is and their effects on organ fibrosis, together with providing a proposed explanation as to the underlying mechanisms. METHODS PubMed, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar and Scopus were searched spanning the period from 2012 until April 2023 to find relevant articles describing the antifibrotic effects of SGLT2is. RESULTS The majority of reports have shown that SGLT2is are protective against lung, liver, heart and kidney fibrosis as well as arterial stiffness. According to the results of clinical trials and animal studies, many SGLT2 inhibitors are promising candidates for the treatment of fibrosis. Recent studies have demonstrated that SGLT2is affect an array of cellular processes, including hypoxia, inflammation, oxidative stress, the renin-angiotensin system and metabolic activities, all of which have been linked to fibrosis. CONCLUSION Extensive evidence indicates that SGLT2is are promising treatments for fibrosis, demonstrating protective effects in various organs and influencing key cellular processes linked to fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neda Shakour
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Shima Karami
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mehrdad Iranshahi
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Alexandra E Butler
- Research Department, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Adliya, Bahrain
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
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Zhang Y, Maskan Bermudez N, Sa B, Maderal AD, Jimenez JJ. Epigenetic mechanisms driving the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus, systemic sclerosis and dermatomyositis. Exp Dermatol 2024; 33:e14986. [PMID: 38059632 DOI: 10.1111/exd.14986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
Autoimmune connective tissue disorders, including systemic lupus erythematosus, systemic sclerosis (SSc) and dermatomyositis (DM), often manifest with debilitating cutaneous lesions and can result in systemic organ damage that may be life-threatening. Despite recent therapeutic advancements, many patients still experience low rates of sustained remission and significant treatment toxicity. While genetic predisposition plays a role in these connective tissue disorders, the relatively low concordance rates among monozygotic twins (ranging from approximately 4% for SSc to about 11%-50% for SLE) have prompted increased scrutiny of the epigenetic factors contributing to these diseases. In this review, we explore some seminal studies and key findings to provide a comprehensive understanding of how dysregulated epigenetic mechanisms can contribute to the development of SLE, SSc and DM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusheng Zhang
- Dr. Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Narges Maskan Bermudez
- Dr. Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Brianna Sa
- Dr. Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Andrea D Maderal
- Dr. Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Joaquin J Jimenez
- Dr. Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
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Florio F, Vencato S, Papa FT, Libergoli M, Kheir E, Ghzaiel I, Rando TA, Torrente Y, Biressi S. Combinatorial activation of the WNT-dependent fibrogenic program by distinct complement subunits in dystrophic muscle. EMBO Mol Med 2023; 15:e17405. [PMID: 37927228 PMCID: PMC10701616 DOI: 10.15252/emmm.202317405] [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: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis is associated with compromised muscle functionality in Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). We report observations with tissues from dystrophic patients and mice supporting a model to explain fibrosis in DMD, which relies on the crosstalk between the complement and the WNT signaling pathways and the functional interactions of two cellular types. Fibro-adipogenic progenitors and macrophages, which populate the inflamed dystrophic muscles, act as a combinatorial source of WNT activity by secreting distinct subunits of the C1 complement complex. The resulting aberrant activation of the WNT signaling in responsive cells, such as fibro-adipogenic progenitors, contributes to fibrosis. Indeed, pharmacological inhibition of the C1r/s subunits in a murine model of DMD mitigated the activation of the WNT signaling pathway, reduced the fibrogenic characteristics of the fibro-adipogenic progenitors, and ameliorated the dystrophic phenotype. These studies shed new light on the molecular and cellular mechanisms responsible for fibrosis in muscular dystrophy and open to new therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Florio
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology (CIBIO)University of TrentoTrentoItaly
- Dulbecco Telethon Institute at University of TrentoTrentoItaly
- Neurology UnitFondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore PoliclinicoMilanItaly
| | - Sara Vencato
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology (CIBIO)University of TrentoTrentoItaly
- Dulbecco Telethon Institute at University of TrentoTrentoItaly
| | - Filomena T Papa
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology (CIBIO)University of TrentoTrentoItaly
- Dulbecco Telethon Institute at University of TrentoTrentoItaly
| | - Michela Libergoli
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology (CIBIO)University of TrentoTrentoItaly
- Dulbecco Telethon Institute at University of TrentoTrentoItaly
| | - Eyemen Kheir
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology (CIBIO)University of TrentoTrentoItaly
- Dulbecco Telethon Institute at University of TrentoTrentoItaly
| | - Imen Ghzaiel
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology (CIBIO)University of TrentoTrentoItaly
- Dulbecco Telethon Institute at University of TrentoTrentoItaly
| | - Thomas A Rando
- Broad Stem Cell Research CenterUniversity of California Los AngelesLos AngelesCAUSA
| | - Yvan Torrente
- Neurology UnitFondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore PoliclinicoMilanItaly
- Stem Cell Laboratory, Dino Ferrari Center, Department of Pathophysiology and TransplantationUniversity of MilanMilanItaly
| | - Stefano Biressi
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology (CIBIO)University of TrentoTrentoItaly
- Dulbecco Telethon Institute at University of TrentoTrentoItaly
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Urban L, Čoma M, Lacina L, Szabo P, Sabová J, Urban T, Šuca H, Lukačín Š, Zajíček R, Smetana K, Gál P. Heterogeneous response to TGF-β1/3 isoforms in fibroblasts of different origins: implications for wound healing and tumorigenesis. Histochem Cell Biol 2023; 160:541-554. [PMID: 37707642 DOI: 10.1007/s00418-023-02221-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023]
Abstract
Identification of therapeutic targets for treating fibrotic diseases and cancer remains challenging. Our study aimed to investigate the effects of TGF-β1 and TGF-β3 on myofibroblast differentiation and extracellular matrix deposition in different types of fibroblasts, including normal/dermal, cancer-associated, and scar-derived fibroblasts. When comparing the phenotype and signaling pathways activation we observed extreme heterogeneity of studied markers across different fibroblast populations, even within those isolated from the same tissue. Specifically, the presence of myofibroblast and deposition of extracellular matrix were dependent on the origin of the fibroblasts and the type of treatment they received (TGF-β1 vs. TGF-β3). In parallel, we detected activation of canonical signaling (pSMAD2/3) across all studied fibroblasts, albeit to various extents. Treatment with TGF-β1 and TGF-β3 resulted in the activation of canonical and several non-canonical pathways, including AKT, ERK, and ROCK. Among studied cells, cancer-associated fibroblasts displayed the most heterogenic response to TGF-β1/3 treatments. In general, TGF-β1 demonstrated a more potent activation of signaling pathways compared to TGF-β3, whereas TGF-β3 exhibited rather an inhibitory effect in keloid- and hypertrophic scar-derived fibroblasts suggesting its clinical potential for scar treatment. In summary, our study has implications for comprehending the role of TGF-β signaling in fibroblast biology, fibrotic diseases, and cancer. Future research should focus on unraveling the mechanisms beyond differential fibroblast responses to TGF-β isomers considering inherent fibroblast heterogeneity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukáš Urban
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Pavol Jozef Šafárik University in Košice, 040 11, Košice, Slovak Republic
- Department of Biomedical Research, East-Slovak Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases Inc, Ondavská, 040 11, Košice, Slovak Republic
| | - Matúš Čoma
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Pavol Jozef Šafárik University in Košice, 040 11, Košice, Slovak Republic
- Department of Biomedical Research, East-Slovak Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases Inc, Ondavská, 040 11, Košice, Slovak Republic
| | - Lukáš Lacina
- Institute of Anatomy, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, U Nemocnice 2, 128 00, Prague, Czech Republic
- BIOCEV, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, 252 50, Vestec, Czech Republic
- Department Dermatovenereology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital, 128 08, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Pavol Szabo
- Institute of Anatomy, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, U Nemocnice 2, 128 00, Prague, Czech Republic
- BIOCEV, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, 252 50, Vestec, Czech Republic
| | - Jana Sabová
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Pavol Jozef Šafárik University in Košice, 040 11, Košice, Slovak Republic
| | - Tomáš Urban
- Prague Burn Center, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and University Hospital Královské Vinohrady, 100 00, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Hubert Šuca
- Prague Burn Center, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and University Hospital Královské Vinohrady, 100 00, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Štefan Lukačín
- Department of Heart Surgery, East-Slovak Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases Inc, 040 11, Košice, Slovak Republic
| | - Robert Zajíček
- Prague Burn Center, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and University Hospital Královské Vinohrady, 100 00, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Karel Smetana
- Institute of Anatomy, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, U Nemocnice 2, 128 00, Prague, Czech Republic.
- BIOCEV, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, 252 50, Vestec, Czech Republic.
| | - Peter Gál
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Pavol Jozef Šafárik University in Košice, 040 11, Košice, Slovak Republic.
- Department of Biomedical Research, East-Slovak Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases Inc, Ondavská, 040 11, Košice, Slovak Republic.
- Prague Burn Center, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and University Hospital Královské Vinohrady, 100 00, Prague, Czech Republic.
- Department of Pharmacognosy and Botany, Faculty of Pharmacy, Comenius University, 832 32, Bratislava, Slovak Republic.
- Institute of Neurobiology, Biomedical Research Center of the Slovak Academy of Sciences, 040 01, Košice, Slovak Republic.
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Goto A, Komura S, Kato K, Maki R, Hirakawa A, Tomita H, Hirata A, Yamada Y, Akiyama H. C-X-C domain ligand 14-mediated stromal cell-macrophage interaction as a therapeutic target for hand dermal fibrosis. Commun Biol 2023; 6:1173. [PMID: 37980373 PMCID: PMC10657354 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-023-05558-8] [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: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Dupuytren's contracture, a superficial dermal fibrosis, causes flexion contracture of the affected finger, impairing hand function. Specific single-nucleotide polymorphisms within genes in the Wnt signalling pathway are associated with the disease. However, the precise role of Wnt signalling dysregulation in the onset and progression of Dupuytren's contracture remains unclear. Here, using a fibrosis mouse model and clinical samples of human Dupuytren's contractures, we demonstrate that the activation of Wnt/β-catenin signalling in Tppp3-positive cells in the dermis of the paw is associated with the development of fibrosis. Fibrosis development and progression via Wnt/β-catenin signalling are closely related to stromal cell-macrophage interactions, and Wnt/β-catenin signalling activation in Tppp3-positive stromal cells causes M2 macrophage infiltration via chemokine Cxcl14, resulting in the formation of a TGF-β-expressing fibrotic niche. Inhibition of Cxcl14 mitigates fibrosis by decreasing macrophage infiltration. These findings suggest that Cxcl14-mediated stromal cell-macrophage interaction is a promising therapeutic target for Wnt/β-catenin-induced fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atsushi Goto
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Gifu University Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu, 501-1194, Japan
| | - Shingo Komura
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Gifu University Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu, 501-1194, Japan.
| | - Koki Kato
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Gifu University Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu, 501-1194, Japan
| | - Rie Maki
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Gifu University Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu, 501-1194, Japan
| | - Akihiro Hirakawa
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Gifu University Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu, 501-1194, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Tomita
- Department of Tumor Pathology, Gifu University Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu, 501-1194, Japan
| | - Akihiro Hirata
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, Joint Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University, Gifu, 501-1194, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Yamada
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan
| | - Haruhiko Akiyama
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Gifu University Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu, 501-1194, Japan
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Li T, Xiong X, Wang Y, Li Y, Liu Y, Zhang M, Li C, Yu T, Cao W, Chen S, Zhang H, Wang X, Lv L, Zhou Y, Liang H, Li X, Shan H. Neuroepithelial cell-transforming 1 promotes cardiac fibrosis via the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. iScience 2023; 26:107888. [PMID: 37766986 PMCID: PMC10520536 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.107888] [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: 01/18/2023] [Revised: 07/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
This study found that the level of neuroepithelial cell-transforming gene 1 protein (NET1) was significantly increased in a mouse cardiac fibrosis model. Moreover, the expression level of NET1 was increased in cardiac fibrosis induced by TGF-β1, suggesting that NET1 was involved in the pathological process of cardiac fibrosis. Overexpression of NET1 promoted β-catenin expression in the nucleus and significantly increased the proliferation and migration of cardiac fibroblasts. NET1 may form a complex with β-catenin through GSK3β. Knockdown of β-catenin alleviated the effects of NET1 overexpression on collagen production and cell migration. In the heart of NET1 knockout mice, NET1 knockout can reduce the expression of β-catenin, α-SMA, and collagen content induced by MI. In conclusion, NET1 may regulate the activation of Wnt/β-catenin and TGF/Smads signaling pathway, promote collagen synthesis in fibroblasts, and participate in cardiac fibrosis. Thus, NET1 may be a potential therapeutic target in cardiac fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianyu Li
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150081, P.R. China
- Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150040, P.R. China
| | - Xue Xiong
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150081, P.R. China
| | - Yujing Wang
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150081, P.R. China
| | - Yue Li
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150081, P.R. China
| | - Yao Liu
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150081, P.R. China
| | - Mingxiu Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150081, P.R. China
| | - Chao Li
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150081, P.R. China
| | - Tong Yu
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Research Center for Druggability of Cardiovascular Noncoding RNA, Institute for Frontier Medical Technology, Shanghai University of Engineering Science, Shanghai 201620, P.R. China
| | - Wei Cao
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150086, P.R. China
| | - Shuangshuang Chen
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150081, P.R. China
| | - Huizhen Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150081, P.R. China
| | - Xiaona Wang
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150081, P.R. China
| | - Lifang Lv
- The Centre of Functional Experiment Teaching, School of Basic Medicine, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150081, P.R. China
| | - Yuhong Zhou
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150081, P.R. China
| | - Haihai Liang
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150081, P.R. China
- Research Unit of Noninfectious Chronic Diseases in Frigid Zone (2019RU070), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Harbin 150081, P.R. China
| | - Xuelian Li
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150081, P.R. China
| | - Hongli Shan
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150081, P.R. China
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Research Center for Druggability of Cardiovascular Noncoding RNA, Institute for Frontier Medical Technology, Shanghai University of Engineering Science, Shanghai 201620, P.R. China
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Guo Z, Ma X, Chen X, Zhang RX, Yan H. Oxidative stress-induced temporal activation of ERK1/2 phosphorylates coreceptor of Wnt/β-catenin for myofibroblast formation in human lens epithelial cells. Mol Vis 2023; 29:206-216. [PMID: 38222447 PMCID: PMC10784218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose Posterior capsular opacification (PCO) is the most common complication postcataract surgery, and its underlying mechanisms involve epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of remnant lens epithelial cells (LECs) in response to drastic changes in stimuli in the intraocular environment, such as oxidative stress and growth factors. Wnt/β-catenin signaling is a major pathway mediating oxidative stress-induced EMT in LECs, but its interplay with other transduction pathways remains little known in the development of PCO. ERK1/2 signaling is the downstream component of a phosphorelay pathway in response to extracellular stimuli (e.g., reactive oxygen species), and its activation regulates multiple cellular processes, including proliferation and EMT. Thus, this study aimed to investigate how ERK1/2 signaling and Wnt/β-catenin pathway crosstalk in oxidative stress-induced EMT in LECs. Methods Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) at 50 μM treatment for 48 h was used to establish a moderate oxidative stress-induced EMT model in LECs. ERK1/2 signaling was inhibited using MEK1/2 inhibitor U0126 at 20 μM. Western blotting was used to quantify protein expression of various biomarkers of EMT and phosphorylated components in ERK1/2 and Wnt/β-catenin signaling. LEC proliferation was determined using an EdU staining assay and expression of proliferating cellular nuclear antigen (PCNA). Subcellular localization of biomarker proteins was visualized with immunofluorescent staining. Results Under the moderate level of H2O2-induced EMT in LECs, ERK1/2 signaling was activated, as evidenced by a marked increase in the ratio of phosphorylated ERK1/2 to total ERK1/2 at early (i.e., 5-15 min) and late time points (i.e., 12 h); the canonical Wnt/β-catenin pathway was activated by H2O2 at 48 h. LECs exposed to H2O2 exhibited hyperproliferation and EMT; however, these were restored by inhibition of ERK1/2 signaling demonstrated by reduced DNA synthesis and PCNA expression for cellular proliferation and altered expression of various EMT protein markers, including E-cadherin, α-SMA, and vimentin. More importantly, inhibition of ERK1/2 signaling reduced β-catenin accumulation in the activated Wnt/β-catenin signaling cascade. Specifically, there was significant downregulation in the phosphorylation level of LRP6 at Ser 1490 and GSK-3β at Ser 9, the key coreceptor of Wnt and regulator of β-catenin, respectively. Conclusions ERK1/2 signaling plays a crucial role in the moderate level of oxidative stress-induced EMT in LECs. Pharmacologically blocking ERK1/2 signaling significantly inhibited LEC proliferation and EMT. Mechanistically, ERK1/2 signaling regulated Wnt/β-catenin cascade by phosphorylating Wnt coreceptor LRP6 at Ser 1490 in the plasma membrane. These results shed light on a potential molecular switch of ERK1/2 and Wnt/β-catenin crosstalk underlying the development of PCO.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zaoxia Guo
- Shaanxi Eye Hospital, Xi'an People’s Hospital (Xi'an Fourth Hospital), Affiliated People’s Hospital of Northwest University, Xi' an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xiaopan Ma
- Xi’an Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Medical Research, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Xi Chen
- Shaanxi Eye Hospital, Xi'an People’s Hospital (Xi'an Fourth Hospital), Affiliated People’s Hospital of Northwest University, Xi' an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Rui Xue Zhang
- Xi’an Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Medical Research, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Hong Yan
- Shaanxi Eye Hospital, Xi'an People’s Hospital (Xi'an Fourth Hospital), Affiliated People’s Hospital of Northwest University, Xi' an, Shaanxi, China
- Xi’an Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Medical Research, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi’an, China
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Long H, Lichtnekert J, Andrassy J, Schraml BU, Romagnani P, Anders HJ. Macrophages and fibrosis: how resident and infiltrating mononuclear phagocytes account for organ injury, regeneration or atrophy. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1194988. [PMID: 37868987 PMCID: PMC10587486 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1194988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Mononuclear phagocytes (MP), i.e., monocytes, macrophages, and dendritic cells (DCs), are essential for immune homeostasis via their capacities to clear pathogens, pathogen components, and non-infectious particles. However, tissue injury-related changes in local microenvironments activate resident and infiltrating MP towards pro-inflammatory phenotypes that contribute to inflammation by secreting additional inflammatory mediators. Efficient control of injurious factors leads to a switch of MP phenotype, which changes the microenvironment towards the resolution of inflammation. In the same way, MP endorses adaptive structural responses leading to either compensatory hypertrophy of surviving cells, tissue regeneration from local tissue progenitor cells, or tissue fibrosis and atrophy. Under certain circumstances, MP contribute to the reversal of tissue fibrosis by clearance of the extracellular matrix. Here we give an update on the tissue microenvironment-related factors that, upon tissue injury, instruct resident and infiltrating MP how to support host defense and recover tissue function and integrity. We propose that MP are not intrinsically active drivers of organ injury and dysfunction but dynamic amplifiers (and biomarkers) of specific tissue microenvironments that vary across spatial and temporal contexts. Therefore, MP receptors are frequently redundant and suboptimal targets for specific therapeutic interventions compared to molecular targets upstream in adaptive humoral or cellular stress response pathways that influence tissue milieus at a contextual level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Long
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine IV, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-University (LMU), Munich, Germany
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Nephropathy, Luzhou, China
| | - Julia Lichtnekert
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine IV, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-University (LMU), Munich, Germany
| | - Joachim Andrassy
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplant Surgery, University Hospital of Ludwig-Maximilians-University (LMU) Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Barbara U. Schraml
- Institute for Cardiovascular Physiology and Pathophysiology, Biomedical Center, Ludwig-Maximilians-University (LMU), Munich, Germany
- Walter-Brendel-Centre of Experimental Medicine, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-University (LMU), Munich, Germany
| | - Paola Romagnani
- Department of Biomedical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences “Mario Serio”, University of Firenze, Nephrology and Dialysis Unit, Meyer Children’s Hospital, Firenze, Italy
| | - Hans-Joachim Anders
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine IV, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-University (LMU), Munich, Germany
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Huang S, Fu D, Wan Z, Huang Z, Li M, Li H, Chong T. DKK1 Ameliorates Myofibroblast Differentiation in Urethral Fibrosis in Vivo and in Vitro by Regulating the Canonical Wnt Pathway. Int J Med Sci 2023; 20:1631-1643. [PMID: 37859694 PMCID: PMC10583189 DOI: 10.7150/ijms.79827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Urethral stricture is a common disorder of the lower urinary tract in men. A complex network of pathways and interactions are involved in the pathogenesis of urethral fibrosis. However, the mechanisms underlying urethral fibrosis remain poorly understood. Objectives: To investigate the critical role of the canonical Wnt pathway in development of urethral fibrosis and explore DKK1, the endogenous inhibitor of Wnt pathway, as a potential target to prevent urethral fibrosis in vitro and in vivo. Methods: Urethral fibrosis tissue derived from patients and rat models were harvested to assess the activation of the canonical Wnt pathway by using western blot, qRT-PCR and immunohistochemistryWe performed histological staining, western blot, qRT-PCR and immunohistochemistry to examine the effects of DKK1 treatment on in vivo rat urethral fibrosis models. In vitro, human urethral fibroblasts (HUFs) were cultured to examine the effects of DKK1 in TGFβ1-induced HUFs by CCK-8 assay, hydroxyproline assay, flow cytometry, cell migration assay, western blot, qRT-PCR and immunofluorescence. Results: The key components of Wnt signaling were upregulated in urethral fibrosis tissue derived from patients and rat models while DKK 1 was downregulated. DKK1 ameliorated TGFβ1-induced urethral fibrosis in rats. TGFβ1 induced myofibroblast differentiation by upregulating collagen I, collagen III, α-SMA, β-catenin and p-GSK-3β, while DKK1 was decreased. DKK1 significantly inhibited cell proliferation, collagen content, cell migration and promoted cell apoptosis in TGFβ1-induced HUFs. DKK1 significantly suppressed myofibroblast differentiation of TGFβ1-induced HUFs by downregulating collagen I, collagen III, α-SMA, β-catenin and p-GSK-3β with a mechanism independent of Smad2/3. Conclusions: Our study demonstrated that canonical Wnt pathway may be an essential mechanism underlying the pathogenesis of urethral fibrosis and explored the potential role of DKK1 participation in the development of urethral fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanlong Huang
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 157 Xiwu Road, Xi'an, China
| | - Delai Fu
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 157 Xiwu Road, Xi'an, China
| | - Ziyan Wan
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 157 Xiwu Road, Xi'an, China
| | - Zhixin Huang
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 157 Xiwu Road, Xi'an, China
| | - Min Li
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 157 Xiwu Road, Xi'an, China
| | - Hecheng Li
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 157 Xiwu Road, Xi'an, China
| | - Tie Chong
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 157 Xiwu Road, Xi'an, China
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46
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Chiang YP, Li Z, He M, Jones Q, Pan M, Han X, Jiang XC. Sphingomyelin synthase-related protein SMSr is a phosphatidylethanolamine phospholipase C that promotes nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. J Biol Chem 2023; 299:105162. [PMID: 37586586 PMCID: PMC10494463 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.105162] [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: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Sphingomyelin synthase (SMS)-related protein (SMSr) is a phosphatidylethanolamine phospholipase C (PE-PLC) that is conserved and ubiquitous in mammals. However, its biological function is still not clear. We previously observed that SMS1 deficiency-mediated glucosylceramide accumulation caused nonalcoholic fatty liver diseases (NAFLD), including nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and liver fibrosis. Here, first, we evaluated high-fat diet/fructose-induced NAFLD in Smsr KO and WT mice. Second, we evaluated whether SMSr deficiency can reverse SMS1 deficiency-mediated NAFLD, using Sms1/Sms2 double and Sms1/Sms2/Smsr triple KO mice. We found that SMSr/PE-PLC deficiency attenuated high-fat diet/fructose-induced fatty liver and NASH, and attenuated glucosylceramide accumulation-induced NASH, fibrosis, and tumor formation. Further, we found that SMSr/PE-PLC deficiency reduced the expression of many inflammatory cytokines and fibrosis-related factors, and PE supplementation in vitro or in vivo mimicked the condition of SMSr/PE-PLC deficiency. Furthermore, we demonstrated that SMSr/PE-PLC deficiency or PE supplementation effectively prevented membrane-bound β-catenin transfer to the nucleus, thereby preventing tumor-related gene expression. Finally, we observed that patients with NASH had higher SMSr protein levels in the liver, lower plasma PE levels, and lower plasma PE/phosphatidylcholine ratios, and that human plasma PE levels are negatively associated with tumor necrosis factor-α and transforming growth factor β1 levels. In conclusion, SMSr/PE-PLC deficiency causes PE accumulation, which can attenuate fatty liver, NASH, and fibrosis. These results suggest that SMSr/PE-PLC inhibition therapy may mitigate NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeun-Po Chiang
- Department of Cell Biology, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, New York, USA
| | - Zhiqiang Li
- Department of Cell Biology, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, New York, USA
| | - Mulin He
- Department of Cell Biology, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, New York, USA
| | - Quiana Jones
- Department of Cell Biology, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, New York, USA
| | - Meixia Pan
- Lipidomics Core, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Xianlin Han
- Lipidomics Core, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Xian-Cheng Jiang
- Department of Cell Biology, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, New York, USA; Molecular and Cellular Cardiology Program, VA New York Harbor Healthcare System, Brooklyn, New York, USA.
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47
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Guan W, Yuan J, Li X, Gao X, Wang F, Liu H, Shi J, Xu G. Cyclin dependent kinase 14 as a paclitaxel-resistant marker regulated by the TGF-β signaling pathway in human ovarian cancer. J Cancer 2023; 14:2538-2551. [PMID: 37670966 PMCID: PMC10475357 DOI: 10.7150/jca.86842] [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: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cyclin dependent kinase 14 (CDK14) plays a central role in the control of cell proliferation and cell cycle progression. However, the specific function and regulatory mechanism of CDK14 on paclitaxel (PTX) resistance in ovarian cancer (OC) remain unclear. The present study demonstrated that CDK14 was overexpressed in OC tissues and cells at mRNA and protein levels detected by qRT-PCR, Western blot, and immunohistochemistry. Survival analysis showed that elevated CDK14 was related to the poor prognosis of OC patients. Overexpression of CDK14 was correlated with chemoresistance in OC. The expression level of CDK14 was higher in PTX-resistant OC cells (SK3R-PTX and OV3R-PTX) than in their counterpart-sensitive cells (SK-OV-3 and OVCAR-3). Knockdown of CDK14 decreased multidrug resistance 1 (MDR1) and β-catenin expression in SK3R-PTX and OV3R-PTX cells and resensitized OC cells to PTX by decreasing cell proliferation and inducing cell apoptosis. Administration of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 decreased CDK14 protein in PTX-resistant OC cells. The inhibitory effect of TGF-β1 on CDK14 expression was abolished in the presence of a TGF-β type I receptor kinase inhibitor (SB-431542). Furthermore, TGF-β signal transducer Smad2 protein directly bound to the region -437 to -446 upstream of the CDK14 transcription start site (TSS), resulting in downregulating the expression of CDK14. These data indicate that CDK14 is a PTX-resistant marker and is regulated by the TGF-β signaling pathway. Targeting CDK14 to enhance the sensitivity of PTX may provide a new therapeutic strategy for reversing the PTX resistance in OC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wencai Guan
- Research Center for Clinical Medicine, Jinshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 201508, China
| | - Jia Yuan
- Research Center for Clinical Medicine, Jinshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 201508, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Xin Li
- Research Center for Clinical Medicine, Jinshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 201508, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Xuzhu Gao
- Research Center for Clinical Medicine, Jinshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 201508, China
| | - Fanchen Wang
- Research Center for Clinical Medicine, Jinshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 201508, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Huiqiang Liu
- Research Center for Clinical Medicine, Jinshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 201508, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Jimin Shi
- Research Center for Clinical Medicine, Jinshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 201508, China
| | - Guoxiong Xu
- Research Center for Clinical Medicine, Jinshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 201508, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
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48
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Abdelrahman S, Ge R, Susapto HH, Liu Y, Samkari F, Moretti M, Liu X, Hoehndorf R, Emwas AH, Jaremko M, Rawas RH, Hauser CAE. The Impact of Mechanical Cues on the Metabolomic and Transcriptomic Profiles of Human Dermal Fibroblasts Cultured in Ultrashort Self-Assembling Peptide 3D Scaffolds. ACS NANO 2023; 17:14508-14531. [PMID: 37477873 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c01176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
Cells' interactions with their microenvironment influence their morphological features and regulate crucial cellular functions including proliferation, differentiation, metabolism, and gene expression. Most biological data available are based on in vitro two-dimensional (2D) cellular models, which fail to recapitulate the three-dimensional (3D) in vivo systems. This can be attributed to the lack of cell-matrix interaction and the limitless access to nutrients and oxygen, in contrast to in vivo systems. Despite the emergence of a plethora of 3D matrices to address this challenge, there are few reports offering a proper characterization of these matrices or studying how the cell-matrix interaction influences cellular metabolism in correlation with gene expression. In this study, two tetrameric ultrashort self-assembling peptide sequences, FFIK and FIIK, were used to create in vitro 3D models using well-described human dermal fibroblast cells. The peptide sequences are derived from naturally occurring amino acids that are capable of self-assembling into stable hydrogels without UV or chemical cross-linking. Our results showed that 2D cultured fibroblasts exhibited distinct metabolic and transcriptomic profiles compared to 3D cultured cells. The observed changes in the metabolomic and transcriptomic profiles were closely interconnected and influenced several important metabolic pathways including the TCA cycle, glycolysis, MAPK signaling cascades, and hemostasis. Data provided here may lead to clearer insights into the influence of the surrounding microenvironment on human dermal fibroblast metabolic patterns and molecular mechanisms, underscoring the importance of utilizing efficient 3D in vitro models to study such complex mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sherin Abdelrahman
- Laboratory for Nanomedicine, Division of Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering (BESE), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
- KAUST Smart Health Initiative (KSHI), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
- Computational Bioscience Research Center (CBRC), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
- Red Sea Research Center (RSRC), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rui Ge
- Laboratory for Nanomedicine, Division of Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering (BESE), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
- Computational Bioscience Research Center (CBRC), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hepi H Susapto
- Laboratory for Nanomedicine, Division of Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering (BESE), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
| | - Yang Liu
- Computational Bioscience Research Center (CBRC), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
| | - Faris Samkari
- Laboratory for Nanomedicine, Division of Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering (BESE), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
| | - Manola Moretti
- Laboratory for Nanomedicine, Division of Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering (BESE), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
- KAUST Smart Health Initiative (KSHI), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
- Computational Bioscience Research Center (CBRC), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
- Red Sea Research Center (RSRC), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955, Saudi Arabia
| | - Xinzhi Liu
- Laboratory for Nanomedicine, Division of Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering (BESE), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
| | - Robert Hoehndorf
- Computational Bioscience Research Center (CBRC), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
- Computer, Electrical and Mathematical Sciences & Engineering Division, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal 23955, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdul-Hamid Emwas
- Core Laboratories, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mariusz Jaremko
- Smart-Health Initiative (SHI) and Red Sea Research Center (RSRC), Division of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Engineering (BESE), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ranim H Rawas
- Laboratory for Nanomedicine, Division of Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering (BESE), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
- Computational Bioscience Research Center (CBRC), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
| | - Charlotte A E Hauser
- Laboratory for Nanomedicine, Division of Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering (BESE), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
- KAUST Smart Health Initiative (KSHI), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
- Computational Bioscience Research Center (CBRC), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
- Red Sea Research Center (RSRC), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955, Saudi Arabia
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49
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Zhu L, Liu L, Wang A, Liu J, Huang X, Zan T. Positive feedback loops between fibroblasts and the mechanical environment contribute to dermal fibrosis. Matrix Biol 2023; 121:1-21. [PMID: 37164179 DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2023.05.001] [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: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 05/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Dermal fibrosis is characterized by excessive deposition of extracellular matrix in the dermis and affects millions of people worldwide and causes limited movement, disfigurement and psychological distress in patients. Fibroblast dysfunction of plays a central role in the pathogenesis of dermal fibrosis and is controlled by distinct factors. Recent studies support the hypothesis that fibroblasts can drive matrix deposition and stiffening, which in turn can exacerbate the functional dysregulation of fibroblasts. Ultimately, through a positive feedback loop, uncontrolled pathological fibrosis develops. This review aims to summarize the phenomenon and mechanism of the positive feedback loop in dermal fibrosis, and discuss potential therapeutic targets to help further elucidate the pathogenesis of dermal fibrosis and develop therapeutic strategies. In this review, fibroblast-derived compositional and structural changes in the ECM that lead to altered mechanical properties are briefly discussed. We focus on the mechanisms by which mechanical cues participate in dermal fibrosis progression. The mechanosensors discussed in the review include integrins, DDRs, proteoglycans, and mechanosensitive ion channels. The FAK, ERK, Akt, and Rho pathways, as well as transcription factors, including MRTF and YAP/TAZ, are also discussed. In addition, we describe stiffness-induced biological changes in the ECM on fibroblasts that contribute to the formation of a positive feedback loop. Finally, we discuss therapeutic strategies to treat the vicious cycle and present important suggestions for researchers conducting in-depth research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Zhu
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Lechen Liu
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Aoli Wang
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jinwen Liu
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xin Huang
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Tao Zan
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
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50
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Yoon M, Kim E, Seo SH, Kim GU, Choi KY. KY19382 Accelerates Cutaneous Wound Healing via Activation of the Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling Pathway. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11742. [PMID: 37511501 PMCID: PMC10380997 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway plays important roles in the multi-phases of wound healing: homeostasis, inflammation, proliferative, and remodeling phases. However, there are no clinically available therapeutic agents targeting the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. In this study, we tested the effect of 5, 6-dichloroindirubin-3'-methoxime (KY19382), a small molecule that activates the Wnt/β-catenin pathway via interference with the function of the negative feedback regulator CXXC5, on cutaneous wound healing. KY19382 significantly enhanced cell migration of human keratinocytes and dermal fibroblasts with increased levels of β-catenin, phalloidin, Keratin 14, proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), Collagen I, and alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) by activating the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway without causing significant cytotoxicity. In addition, levels of Collagen I, Keratin 14, PCNA, and stem cell markers were significantly increased by KY19382 in a cutaneous murine wound healing model. Moreover, KY19382 treatment accelerated re-epithelialization and neo-epidermis formation with collagen deposition and stem cell activation at an early stage of cutaneous wound healing. Overall, KY19382 accelerates wound healing via activating the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, and may have the potential to be used for the development of a new wound healing agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minguen Yoon
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Eunhwan Kim
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Seol Hwa Seo
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Geon-Uk Kim
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Kang-Yell Choi
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
- CK Regeon Inc., Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
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