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Gomatam CK, Ingale P, Rodriguez G, Munger S, Pomeranets R, Krishna S, Lowe J, Howard ZM, Rafael-Fortney JA. Cell-type specific effects of mineralocorticoid receptor gene expression suggest intercellular communication regulating fibrosis in skeletal muscle disease. Front Physiol 2024; 15:1322729. [PMID: 38737833 PMCID: PMC11082420 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2024.1322729] [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: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a fatal striated muscle degenerative disease. DMD is caused by loss of dystrophin protein, which results in sarcolemmal instability and cycles of myofiber degeneration and regeneration. Pathology is exacerbated by overactivation of infiltrating immune cells and fibroblasts, which leads to chronic inflammation and fibrosis. Mineralocorticoid receptors (MR), a type of nuclear steroid hormone receptors, are potential therapeutic targets for DMD. MR antagonists show clinical efficacy on DMD cardiomyopathy and preclinical efficacy on skeletal muscle in DMD models. Methods: We have previously generated myofiber and myeloid MR knockout mouse models to dissect cell-specific functions of MR within dystrophic muscles. Here, we compared skeletal muscle gene expression from both knockouts to further define cell-type specific signaling downstream from MR. Results: Myeloid MR knockout increased proinflammatory and profibrotic signaling, including numerous myofibroblast signature genes. Tenascin C was the most highly upregulated fibrotic gene in myeloid MR-knockout skeletal muscle and is a component of fibrosis in dystrophic skeletal muscle. Surprisingly, lysyl oxidase (Lox), canonically a collagen crosslinker, was increased in both MR knockouts, but did not localize to fibrotic regions of skeletal muscle. Lox localized within myofibers, including only a region of quadriceps muscles. Lysyl oxidase like 1 (Loxl1), another Lox family member, was increased only in myeloid MR knockout muscle and localized specifically to fibrotic regions. Discussion: This study suggests that MR signaling in the dystrophic muscle microenvironment involves communication between contributing cell types and modulates inflammatory and fibrotic pathways in muscle disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Jill A. Rafael-Fortney
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
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2
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Liu Z, Hui Mingalone CK, Gnanatheepam E, Hollander JM, Zhang Y, Meng J, Zeng L, Georgakoudi I. Label-free, multi-parametric assessments of cell metabolism and matrix remodeling within human and early-stage murine osteoarthritic articular cartilage. Commun Biol 2023; 6:405. [PMID: 37055483 PMCID: PMC10102009 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-023-04738-w] [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: 11/06/2021] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Osteoarthritis (OA) is characterized by the progressive deterioration of articular cartilage, involving complicated cell-matrix interactions. Systematic investigations of dynamic cellular and matrix changes during OA progression are lacking. In this study, we use label-free two-photon excited fluorescence (TPEF) and second harmonic generation (SHG) imaging to assess cellular and extracellular matrix features of murine articular cartilage during several time points at early stages of OA development following destabilization of medial meniscus surgery. We detect significant changes in the organization of collagen fibers and crosslink-associated fluorescence of the superficial zone as early as one week following surgery. Such changes become significant within the deeper transitional and radial zones at later time-points, highlighting the importance of high spatial resolution. Cellular metabolic changes exhibit a highly dynamic behavior, and indicate metabolic reprogramming from enhanced oxidative phosphorylation to enhanced glycolysis or fatty acid oxidation over the ten-week observation period. The optical metabolic and matrix changes detected within this mouse model are consistent with differences identified in excised human cartilage specimens from OA and healthy cartilage specimens. Thus, our studies reveal important cell-matrix interactions at the onset of OA that may enable improved understanding of OA development and identification of new potential treatment targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiyi Liu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, MA, 02155, USA
- State Key Laboratory of Modern Optical Instrumentation, College of Optical Science and Engineering; International Research Center for Advanced Photonics, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310027, China
- Intelligent Optics & Photonics Research Center, Jiaxing Research Institute, Zhejiang University, Jiaxing, Zhejiang, 314000, China
| | - Carrie K Hui Mingalone
- Program in Cell, Molecular, and Developmental Biology, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University, Boston, MA, 02111, USA
| | | | - Judith M Hollander
- Program in Cell, Molecular, and Developmental Biology, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University, Boston, MA, 02111, USA
| | - Yang Zhang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, MA, 02155, USA
| | - Jia Meng
- State Key Laboratory of Modern Optical Instrumentation, College of Optical Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310027, China
| | - Li Zeng
- Program in Cell, Molecular, and Developmental Biology, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University, Boston, MA, 02111, USA
- Department of Immunology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, 02111, USA
- Department of Orthopaedics, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, 02111, USA
| | - Irene Georgakoudi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, MA, 02155, USA.
- Program in Cell, Molecular, and Developmental Biology, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University, Boston, MA, 02111, USA.
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3
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Wang K, Wen D, Xu X, Zhao R, Jiang F, Yuan S, Zhang Y, Gao Y, Li Q. Extracellular matrix stiffness-The central cue for skin fibrosis. Front Mol Biosci 2023; 10:1132353. [PMID: 36968277 PMCID: PMC10031116 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2023.1132353] [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: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Skin fibrosis is a physiopathological process featuring the excessive deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM), which is the main architecture that provides structural support and constitutes the microenvironment for various cellular behaviors. Recently, increasing interest has been drawn to the relationship between the mechanical properties of the ECM and the initiation and modulation of skin fibrosis, with the engagement of a complex network of signaling pathways, the activation of mechanosensitive proteins, and changes in immunoregulation and metabolism. Simultaneous with the progression of skin fibrosis, the stiffness of ECM increases, which in turn perturbs mechanical and humoral homeostasis to drive cell fate toward an outcome that maintains and enhances the fibrosis process, thus forming a pro-fibrotic "positive feedback loop". In this review, we highlighted the central role of the ECM and its dynamic changes at both the molecular and cellular levels in skin fibrosis. We paid special attention to signaling pathways regulated by mechanical cues in ECM remodeling. We also systematically summarized antifibrotic interventions targeting the ECM, hopefully enlightening new strategies for fibrotic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kang Wang
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Burn and Plastic Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Dongsheng Wen
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xuewen Xu
- Department of Burn and Plastic Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Rui Zhao
- West China School of Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Feipeng Jiang
- West China School of Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Shengqin Yuan
- School of Public Administration, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yifan Zhang
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Yifan Zhang, ; Ya Gao, ; Qingfeng Li,
| | - Ya Gao
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Yifan Zhang, ; Ya Gao, ; Qingfeng Li,
| | - Qingfeng Li
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Yifan Zhang, ; Ya Gao, ; Qingfeng Li,
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4
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Stuelten CH, Melis N, Subramanian B, Tang Y, Kimicata M, Fisher JP, Weigert R, Zhang YE. Smurf2 Regulates Inflammation and Collagen Processing in Cutaneous Wound Healing through Transforming Growth Factor-β/Smad3 Signaling. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2022; 192:1699-1711. [PMID: 36063900 PMCID: PMC9765313 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2022.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Wound healing is a highly conserved process that restores the integrity and functionality of injured tissues. Transforming growth factor (TGF)-β is a master regulator of wound healing, whose signaling is attenuated by the E3 ubiquitin ligase Smurf2. Herein, the roles of Smurf2 in cutaneous wound healing were examined using a murine incisional cutaneous model. Loss of Smurf2 increased early inflammation in the wounds and led to narrower wounds with greater breaking strength. Loss of Smurf2 also led to more linearized collagen bundles in normal and wounded skin. Gene expression analyses by real-time quantitative PCR indicated that Smurf2-deficient fibroblasts had increased levels of TGF-β/Smad3 signaling and changes in expression profile of genes related to matrix turnover. The effect of Smurf2 loss on wound healing and collagen bundling was attenuated by the heterozygous loss of Smad3. Together, these results show that Smurf2 affects inflammation and collagen processing in cutaneous wounds by down-regulating TGF-β/Smad3 signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina H Stuelten
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Nicolas Melis
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Bhagawat Subramanian
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Yi Tang
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Megan Kimicata
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland
| | - John P Fisher
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland
| | - Roberto Weigert
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Ying E Zhang
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland.
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5
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Blokland KEC, Nizamoglu M, Habibie H, Borghuis T, Schuliga M, Melgert BN, Knight DA, Brandsma CA, Pouwels SD, Burgess JK. Substrate stiffness engineered to replicate disease conditions influence senescence and fibrotic responses in primary lung fibroblasts. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:989169. [PMID: 36408252 PMCID: PMC9673045 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.989169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
In fibrosis remodelling of ECM leads to changes in composition and stiffness. Such changes can have a major impact on cell functions including proliferation, secretory profile and differentiation. Several studies have reported that fibrosis is characterised by increased senescence and accumulating evidence suggests that changes to the ECM including altered composition and increased stiffness may contribute to premature cellular senescence. This study investigated if increased stiffness could modulate markers of senescence and/or fibrosis in primary human lung fibroblasts. Using hydrogels representing stiffnesses that fall within healthy and fibrotic ranges, we cultured primary fibroblasts from non-diseased lung tissue on top of these hydrogels for up to 7 days before assessing senescence and fibrosis markers. Fibroblasts cultured on stiffer (±15 kPa) hydrogels showed higher Yes-associated protein-1 (YAP) nuclear translocation compared to soft hydrogels. When looking at senescence-associated proteins we also found higher secretion of receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand (RANKL) but no change in transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) or connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) expression and higher decorin protein deposition on stiffer matrices. With respect to genes associated with fibrosis, fibroblasts on stiffer hydrogels compared to soft had higher expression of smooth muscle alpha (α)-2 actin (ACTA2), collagen (COL) 1A1 and fibulin-1 (Fbln1) and higher Fbln1 protein deposition after 7 days. Our results show that exposure of lung fibroblasts to fibrotic stiffness activates genes and secreted factors that are part of fibrotic responses and part of the Senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP). This overlap may contribute to the creation of a feedback loop whereby fibroblasts create a perpetuating cycle reinforcing progression of a fibrotic response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaj E. C. Blokland
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, Groningen, Netherlands
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD, Groningen, Netherlands
- University of Newcastle, School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- National Health and Medical Research Council Centre of Research Excellence in Pulmonary Fibrosis, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Mehmet Nizamoglu
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, Groningen, Netherlands
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Habibie Habibie
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD, Groningen, Netherlands
- University of Groningen, Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy, Groningen, Netherlands
- Hasanuddin University, Faculty of Pharmacy, Makassar, Indonesia
| | - Theo Borghuis
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, Groningen, Netherlands
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Michael Schuliga
- University of Newcastle, School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Barbro N. Melgert
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, Groningen, Netherlands
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD, Groningen, Netherlands
- University of Groningen, Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Darryl A. Knight
- University of Newcastle, School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- National Health and Medical Research Council Centre of Research Excellence in Pulmonary Fibrosis, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Providence Health Care Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Corry-Anke Brandsma
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, Groningen, Netherlands
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Simon D. Pouwels
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, Groningen, Netherlands
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD, Groningen, Netherlands
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Pulmonology, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Janette K. Burgess
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, Groningen, Netherlands
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD, Groningen, Netherlands
- *Correspondence: Janette K. Burgess,
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6
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Nakamura R, Bing R, Gartling GJ, Branski RC. Macrophages alter inflammatory and fibrotic gene expression in human vocal fold fibroblasts. Exp Cell Res 2022; 419:113301. [PMID: 35931141 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2022.113301] [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: 05/20/2022] [Revised: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Macrophage phenotypes are simplistically classified as pro-inflammatory (M1) or anti-inflammatory/pro-fibrotic (M2). Phenotypically different macrophages are putatively involved in vocal fold (VF) fibrosis. The current study investigated interactions between macrophages and VF fibroblasts. THP-1 monocyte-derived macrophages were treated with interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), lipopolysaccharide (LPS)/IFN-γ, interleukin-10 (IL10), transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β), or interleukin-4 (IL4) for 24 h (M(IFN), M(IFN/LPS), M(IL10), M(TGF), and M(IL4), respectively; M(-) denotes untreated macrophages). Differentially activated macrophages and human VF fibroblasts were co-cultured ± direct contact. Expression of CXCL10, CCN2, ACTA2, FN1, TGM2, and LOX was quantified by real-time polymerase chain reaction. Type I collagen and smooth muscle actin (SMA) were observed by immunofluorescence. CXCL10 and PTGS2 were upregulated in fibroblasts indirectly co-cultured with M(IFN) and M(IFN/LPS). M(TGF) stimulated CCN2, ACTA2, and FN1 in fibroblasts. Enzymes involved in extracellular matrix crosslinking (TGM2, LOX) were increased in monocultured M(IL4) compared to M(-). Direct co-culture with all macrophages increased type I collagen and SMA in fibroblasts. Macrophage phenotypic shift was consistent with stimulation and had downstream differential effects on VF fibroblasts. Direct contact with macrophages, regardless of phenotype, stimulated a pro-fibrotic response in VF fibroblasts. Collectively, these data suggest meaningful interactions between macrophages and fibroblasts mediate fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryosuke Nakamura
- Rehabilitation Medicine, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Renjie Bing
- Rehabilitation Medicine, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Gary J Gartling
- Rehabilitation Medicine, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ryan C Branski
- Rehabilitation Medicine, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA; Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
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7
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Huang M, Smith A, Watson M, Bhandari R, Baugh LM, Ivanovska I, Watkins T, Lang I, Trojanowska M, Black LD, Pioli PA, Garlick J, Whitfield ML. Self-Assembled Human Skin Equivalents Model Macrophage Activation of Cutaneous Fibrogenesis in Systemic Sclerosis. Arthritis Rheumatol 2022; 74:1245-1256. [PMID: 35212485 DOI: 10.1002/art.42097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Revised: 12/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The development of precision therapeutics for systemic sclerosis (SSc) has been hindered by the lack of models that accurately mimic the disease in vitro. This study was undertaken to design and test a self-assembled skin equivalent (saSE) system that recapitulates the cross-talk between macrophages and fibroblasts in cutaneous fibrosis. METHODS SSc-derived dermal fibroblasts (SScDFs) and normal dermal fibroblasts (NDFs) were cultured with CD14+ monocytes from SSc patients or healthy controls to allow de novo stroma formation. Monocyte donor-matched plasma was introduced at week 3 prior to seeding keratinocytes to produce saSE with a stratified epithelium. Tissue was characterized by immunohistochemical staining, atomic force microscopy, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS Stroma synthesized de novo from NDFs and SScDFs supported a fully stratified epithelium to form saSE. A thicker and stiffer dermis was generated by saSE with SScDFs, and more interleukin-6 and transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) was secreted by saSE with SScDFs compared to saSE with NDFs, regardless of the inclusion of monocytes. Tissue with SSc monocytes and plasma had amplified dermal thickness and stiffness relative to control tissue. Viable CD163+ macrophages were found within the stroma of saSE 5 weeks after seeding. Additionally, SSc saSE contained greater numbers of CD163+ and CD206+ macrophages compared to control saSE. TGFβ blockade inhibited stromal stiffness to a greater extent in SSc saSE compared to control saSE. CONCLUSION These data suggest reciprocal activation between macrophages and fibroblasts that increases tissue thickness and stiffness, which is dependent in part on TGFβ activation. The saSE system may serve as a platform for preclinical therapeutic testing and for molecular characterization of SSc skin pathology through recapitulation of the interactions between macrophages and fibroblasts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengqi Huang
- Dartmouth Geisel School of Medicine, Hanover, New Hampshire, and University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Avi Smith
- Tufts University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | - Rajan Bhandari
- Dartmouth Geisel School of Medicine, Hanover, New Hampshire
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8
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Archer M, Dasari P, Walsh D, Britt KL, Evdokiou A, Ingman WV. Immune Regulation of Mammary Fibroblasts and the Impact of Mammographic Density. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11030799. [PMID: 35160252 PMCID: PMC8837019 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11030799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Mammographic density is associated with a 4–6-fold increase in breast cancer risk independent of age and BMI. High mammographic density is characterized by breast tissue with high proportions of stroma comprised of fibroblasts, collagen, and immune cells. This study sought to investigate whether stromal fibroblasts from high mammographic density breast tissue contributes to increased extracellular matrix deposition and pro-tumorigenic signaling. Mammary fibroblasts were isolated from women with high and low mammographic density and exposed to immune factors myeloperoxidase (MPO), eosinophil peroxidase (EPO), transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGFB1) and tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNFA) for 72 h and profiled for expression of cancer-associated fibroblast and extracellular matrix regulation markers. No differences in gene expression profiles or collagen production were observed between fibroblasts with high or low mammographic density, and they did not have a differential response to immune mediators. MPO and EPO significantly increased the production of collagen 1. TGFB and TNFA induced variable changes in gene expression. Fibroblasts cultured in vitro from women with high mammographic density do not appear to be inherently different to those from women with low mammographic density. The function of fibroblasts in mammographic density-associated breast cancer risk is likely to be regulated by immune signals from surrounding cells in the microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maddison Archer
- Discipline of Surgical Specialties, Adelaide Medical School, The Queen Elizabeth Hospital, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5011, Australia; (M.A.); (P.D.); (D.W.); (A.E.)
- Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia
| | - Pallave Dasari
- Discipline of Surgical Specialties, Adelaide Medical School, The Queen Elizabeth Hospital, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5011, Australia; (M.A.); (P.D.); (D.W.); (A.E.)
- Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia
| | - David Walsh
- Discipline of Surgical Specialties, Adelaide Medical School, The Queen Elizabeth Hospital, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5011, Australia; (M.A.); (P.D.); (D.W.); (A.E.)
| | - Kara L. Britt
- Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia;
| | - Andreas Evdokiou
- Discipline of Surgical Specialties, Adelaide Medical School, The Queen Elizabeth Hospital, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5011, Australia; (M.A.); (P.D.); (D.W.); (A.E.)
| | - Wendy V. Ingman
- Discipline of Surgical Specialties, Adelaide Medical School, The Queen Elizabeth Hospital, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5011, Australia; (M.A.); (P.D.); (D.W.); (A.E.)
- Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +61-882-226-141
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9
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Wilkinson HN, Guinn BA, Hardman MJ. Combined Metallomics/Transcriptomics Profiling Reveals a Major Role for Metals in Wound Repair. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:788596. [PMID: 34917621 PMCID: PMC8669724 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.788596] [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: 10/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Endogenous metals are required for all life, orchestrating the action of diverse cellular processes that are crucial for tissue function. The dynamic wound healing response is underpinned by a plethora of such cellular behaviours, occurring in a time-dependent manner. However, the importance of endogenous metals for cutaneous repair remains largely unexplored. Here we combine ICP-MS with tissue-level RNA-sequencing to reveal profound changes in a number of metals, and corresponding metal-regulated genes, across temporal healing in mice. Wound calcium, magnesium, iron, copper and manganese are elevated at 7 days post-wounding, while magnesium, iron, aluminium, manganese and cobalt increase at 14 days post-wounding. At the level of transcription, wound-induced pathways are independently highly enriched for metal-regulated genes, and vice versa. Moreover, specific metals are linked to distinct wound-induced biological processes and converge on key transcriptional regulators in mice and humans. Finally, we reveal a potential role for one newly identified transcriptional regulator, TNF, in calcium-induced epidermal differentiation. Together, these data highlight potential new and diverse roles for metals in cutaneous wound repair, paving the way for further studies to elucidate the contribution of metals to cellular processes in the repair of skin and other tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Holly N Wilkinson
- Centre for Atherothrombosis and Metabolic Disease, Hull York Medical School, The University of Hull, Hull, United Kingdom
| | - Barbara-Ann Guinn
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, The University of Hull, Hull, United Kingdom
| | - Matthew J Hardman
- Centre for Atherothrombosis and Metabolic Disease, Hull York Medical School, The University of Hull, Hull, United Kingdom
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10
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Staab-Weijnitz CA. Fighting the Fiber: Targeting Collagen in Lung Fibrosis. Am J Respir Cell Mol Biol 2021; 66:363-381. [PMID: 34861139 DOI: 10.1165/rcmb.2021-0342tr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Organ fibrosis is characterized by epithelial injury and aberrant tissue repair, where activated effector cells, mostly fibroblasts and myofibroblasts, excessively deposit collagen into the extracellular matrix. Fibrosis frequently results in organ failure and has been estimated to contribute to at least one third of all global deaths. Also lung fibrosis, in particular idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), is a fatal disease with rising incidence worldwide. As current treatment options targeting fibrogenesis are insufficient, there is an urgent need for novel therapeutic strategies. During the last decade, several studies have proposed to target intra- and extracellular components of the collagen biosynthesis, maturation, and degradation machinery. This includes intra- and extracellular targets directly acting on collagen gene products, but also such that anabolize essential building blocks of collagen, in particular glycine and proline biosynthetic enzymes. Collagen, however, is a ubiquitous molecule in the body and fulfils essential functions as a macromolecular scaffold, growth factor reservoir, and receptor binding site in virtually every tissue. This review summarizes recent advances and future directions in this field. Evidence for the proposed therapeutic targets and where they currently stand in terms of clinical drug development for treatment of fibrotic disease is provided. The drug targets are furthermore discussed in light of (1) specificity for collagen biosynthesis, maturation and degradation, and (2) specificity for disease-associated collagen. As therapeutic success and safety of these drugs may largely depend on targeted delivery, different strategies for specific delivery to the main effector cells and to the extracellular matrix are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia A Staab-Weijnitz
- Helmholtz Zentrum Munchen Deutsches Forschungszentrum fur Gesundheit und Umwelt, 9150, Comprehensive Pneumology Center/Institute of Lung Biology and Disease, Member of the German Center of Lung Research (DZL), München, Germany;
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11
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Xiao W, Shen Y, Xu Y. LOX G473A induces the formation of osteoclasts in RAW264.7 cells via IL-6/JAK2/STAT3 signaling. Exp Cell Res 2021; 409:112890. [PMID: 34695437 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2021.112890] [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: 06/08/2021] [Revised: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Formation of osteoclasts is known to be closely associated with osteoporosis progression. LOX is a key enzyme that catalyzes the synthesis of collagen, which is the new mediator in osteoclast formation. However, the effect of LOXG473A on of osteoclast formation needs to be explored. Thereby, we sought to explore the effect of LOXG473A on formation of osteoclasts and its underlying mechanism. To investigate the function of LOXG473A in osteoclast formation, Raw264.7 cells were stably transfected with LOX-WT or LOX-MUT (LOXG473A). Real-time PCR and western blotting were used to detect the relative levels of osteoclast formation related genes and proteins. TRAP staining and immunofluorescence staining were used to test the ability of Raw264.7 cells to form osteoclasts and the ability of cells to form rings, respectively. Bone erosion assay was used to test bone resorptive activity. The data indicated that LOXG473A significantly enhanced the ability of osteoclasts forming, ring-forming and bone resorpting in Raw264.7 cells. Mechanically, LOXG473A upregulated the expressions of NFATC1, ACP5, CTSK, IL-6, and the proportion of p-JAK2/JAK2 and p-STAT3/STAT3, thereby promoting the formation of osteoclasts. In conclusion, we have verified that LOXG473A induces the proliferation of osteoclasts in Raw264.7 cells via IL-6/JAK2/STAT3 signaling, suggesting a novel strategy for studying osteoporosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjin Xiao
- Department of Endocrinology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215004, China
| | - Yuxia Shen
- Department of Ultrasound, Suzhou Science and Technology Town Hospital, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215153, China
| | - Youjia Xu
- Department of Orthopaedics, Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215004, China.
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12
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Tan H, Wang N, Zhang C, Chan Y, Yuen M, Feng Y. Lysyl Oxidase-Like 4 Fosters an Immunosuppressive Microenvironment During Hepatocarcinogenesis. Hepatology 2021; 73:2326-2341. [PMID: 33068461 PMCID: PMC8251926 DOI: 10.1002/hep.31600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2020] [Revised: 09/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Lysyl oxidase-like 4 (LOXL4) is an amine oxidase that is primarily involved in extracellular matrix remodeling and is highly expressed in HCC tissues, but its functional role in mediating liver carcinogenesis is poorly understood. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the role of LOXL4 in hepatocarcinogenesis. APPROACH AND RESULTS Here, we demonstrate that hepatic LOXL4 expression was increased during the liver carcinogenesis in mice concomitantly fed a choline-deficient, l-amino acid-defined diet. LOXL4 was secreted by the neoplastic cells and primarily localized within hepatic macrophages through exosome internalization. Supplementation of LOXL4 had minimal effect on neoplastic cells. In vitro exposure of macrophages to LOXL4 invoked an immunosuppressive phenotype and activated programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression, which further suppressed the function of CD8+ T cells. Injection of LOXL4 promoted macrophages infiltration into the liver and accelerated tumor growth, which was further abolished by adoptive T-cell transfer or PD-L1 neutralization. Label-free proteomics analysis revealed that the immunosuppressive function of LOXL4 on macrophages primarily relied on interferon (IFN)-mediated signal transducer and activator of transcription-dependent PD-L1 activation. Hydrogen peroxide scavenger or copper chelation on macrophages abolished the IFN-mediated PD-L1 presentation by LOXL4. In human HCC tissue, expression of LOXL4 in CD68+ cells was positively correlated with PD-L1 level. High expression of LOXL4 in CD68+ cells and low expression of CD8A in tumor tissue cooperatively predict poor survival of patients with HCC. CONCLUSIONS LOXL4 facilitates immune evasion by tumor cells and leads to hepatocarcinogenesis. Our study unveils the role of LOXL4 in fostering an immunosuppressive microenvironment during hepatocarcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hor‐Yue Tan
- School of Chinese MedicineLi Ka Shing Faculty of MedicineThe University of Hong KongHong Kong SARChina
| | - Ning Wang
- School of Chinese MedicineLi Ka Shing Faculty of MedicineThe University of Hong KongHong Kong SARChina
| | - Cheng Zhang
- School of Chinese MedicineLi Ka Shing Faculty of MedicineThe University of Hong KongHong Kong SARChina
| | - Yau‐Tuen Chan
- School of Chinese MedicineLi Ka Shing Faculty of MedicineThe University of Hong KongHong Kong SARChina
| | - Man‐Fung Yuen
- Division of Gastroenterology and HepatologyDepartment of MedicineLi Ka Shing Faculty of MedicineThe University of Hong KongHong Kong SARChina
| | - Yibin Feng
- School of Chinese MedicineLi Ka Shing Faculty of MedicineThe University of Hong KongHong Kong SARChina
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13
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Rushton DH, Westgate GE, Van Neste DJ. Following historical "tracks" of hair follicle miniaturisation in patterned hair loss: Are elastin bodies the forgotten aetiology? Exp Dermatol 2021; 31:102-109. [PMID: 34008225 PMCID: PMC9290669 DOI: 10.1111/exd.14393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Revised: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Pattern hair loss (PHL) is a chronic regressive condition of the scalp, where follicular miniaturisation and decreased scalp hair coverage occurs in affected areas. In all PHL cases, there is a measurable progressive shortening of the terminal hair growth duration, along with reduced linear growth rates. In both genders, PHL initially shows an increase in short telogen hairs ≤30 mm in length, reflecting a cycle completion of under 6 months in affected terminal hair follicles. To understand the miniaturisation process, we re-examine the dynamics of miniaturisation and ask the question, "why do miniaturised hair follicles resist treatment?" In the light of recent developments in relation to hair regeneration, we looked back in the older literature for helpful clues "lost to time" and reprise a 1978 Hermann Pinkus observation of an array of elastin deposits beneath the dermal papilla following subsequent anagen/telogen transitions in male balding, originally described by Arao and Perkins who concluded that these changes provide a "morphologic marker of the entire biologic process in the balding scalp." Thus, we have reviewed the role of the elastin-like bodies in hair pathology and we propose that alterations in elastin architecture may contribute to the failure of vellus-like hair reverting back to their terminal status and may indicate a new area for therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Hugh Rushton
- School of Pharmacy & Biomedical Sciences, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth, UK
| | - Gillian E Westgate
- Centre for Skin Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Bradford, Bradford, UK
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14
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Wang JG, Jian WJ, Li Y, Zhang J. Nobiletin promotes the pyroptosis of breast cancer via regulation of miR-200b/JAZF1 axis. Kaohsiung J Med Sci 2021; 37:572-582. [PMID: 33728753 DOI: 10.1002/kjm2.12371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2020] [Revised: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Nobiletin is a polymethoxylated flavone present in citrus fruits, which has been reported to have inhibitory effects on tumorigenesis of cancers. However, the biological function of nobiletin in breast cancer (BC) is largely unknown. To investigate the effect of nobiletin on growth of BC cells, the cell viability of BC was measured by MTT assay. In addition, gene and protein expressions were detected by qRT-PCR and western blot, respectively. The apoptosis and pyroptosis of BC cells were tested by flow cytometry. Finally, the correlation between miR-200b and JAZF1 was detected by dual luciferase report. The data indicated that nobiletin inhibited the proliferation of BC cells in a dose-dependent manner. Moreover, miR-200b mimics-induced pyroptosis of BC cells was further increased by nobiletin. Meanwhile, JAZF1 was found to be the target of miR-200b. Moreover, nobiletin induced apoptosis and pyroptosis of BC cells via miR-200b/JAZF1/NF-κB axis. In conclusion, nobiletin inhibited the tumorigenesis of BC via regulation of miR-200b/JAZF1 axis. Thus, nobiletin might serve as a new agent for the treatment of BC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji-Guo Wang
- Department of Oncology, Shenzhen Baoan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, China
| | - Wen-Jing Jian
- Department of Breast Surgery, The Second People's Hospital of Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yang Li
- Department of Oncology, Shenzhen Baoan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Shenzhen Baoan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, China
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15
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TGFβ-1 Induced Cross-Linking of the Extracellular Matrix of Primary Human Dermal Fibroblasts. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22030984. [PMID: 33498156 PMCID: PMC7863744 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22030984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Excessive cross-linking is a major factor in the resistance to the remodelling of the extracellular matrix (ECM) during fibrotic progression. The role of TGFβ signalling in impairing ECM remodelling has been demonstrated in various fibrotic models. We hypothesised that increased ECM cross-linking by TGFβ contributes to skin fibrosis in Systemic Sclerosis (SSc). Proteomics was used to identify cross-linking enzymes in the ECM of primary human dermal fibroblasts, and to compare their levels following treatment with TGFβ-1. A significant upregulation and enrichment of lysyl-oxidase-like 1, 2 and 4 and transglutaminase 2 were found. Western blotting confirmed the upregulation of lysyl hydroxylase 2 in the ECM. Increased transglutaminase activity in TGFβ-1 treated ECM was revealed from a cell-based assay. We employed a mass spectrometry-based method to identify alterations in the ECM cross-linking pattern caused by TGFβ-1. Cross-linking sites were identified in collagens I and V, fibrinogen and fibronectin. One cross-linking site in fibrinogen alpha was found only in TGFβ-treated samples. In conclusion, we have mapped novel cross-links between ECM proteins and demonstrated that activation of TGFβ signalling in cultured dermal fibroblasts upregulates multiple cross-linking enzymes in the ECM.
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16
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Chen W, Yang A, Jia J, Popov YV, Schuppan D, You H. Lysyl Oxidase (LOX) Family Members: Rationale and Their Potential as Therapeutic Targets for Liver Fibrosis. Hepatology 2020; 72:729-741. [PMID: 32176358 DOI: 10.1002/hep.31236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2019] [Revised: 01/30/2020] [Accepted: 03/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The cross-linking of structural extracellular matrix (ECM) components, especially fibrillar collagens and elastin, is strongly implicated in fibrosis progression and resistance to fibrosis reversal. Lysyl oxidase family members (LOX and LOXL1 [lysyl oxidase-like 1], LOXL2 [lysyl oxidase-like 2], LOXL3 [lysyl oxidase-like 3], and LOXL4 [lysyl oxidase like 4]) are extracellular copper-dependent enzymes that play a key role in ECM cross-linking, but have also other intracellular functions relevant to fibrosis and carcinogenesis. Although the expression of most LOX family members is elevated in experimental liver fibrosis of diverse etiologies, their individual contribution to fibrosis is incompletely understood. Inhibition of the LOX family as a whole and of LOX, LOXL1, and LOXL2 specifically has been shown to suppress fibrosis progression and accelerate its reversal in rodent models of cardiac, renal, pulmonary, and liver fibrosis. Recent disappointing clinical trials with a monoclonal antibody against LOXL2 (simtuzumab) in patients with pulmonary and liver fibrosis dampened enthusiasm for LOX family member inhibition. However, this unexpected negative outcome may be related to the inefficient antibody, rather than to LOXL2, not qualifying as a relevant antifibrotic target. Moreover, LOX family members other than LOXL2 may prove to be attractive therapeutic targets. In this review, we summarize the structural hallmarks, expression patterns, covalent cross-linking activities, and modes of regulation of LOX family members and discuss the clinical potential of their inhibition to treat fibrosis in general and liver fibrosis in particular.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Chen
- Experimental and Translational Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Tolerance Induction and Organ Protection in Transplantation, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Aiting Yang
- Experimental and Translational Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Tolerance Induction and Organ Protection in Transplantation, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jidong Jia
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine in Liver Cirrhosis, National Clinical Research Center of Digestive Diseases, Liver Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yury V Popov
- Division of Gastroenterology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Detlef Schuppan
- Division of Gastroenterology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA.,Institute of Translational Immunology and Research, Center for Immunotherapy, University of Mainz Medical Center, Mainz, Germany
| | - Hong You
- Experimental and Translational Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Tolerance Induction and Organ Protection in Transplantation, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine in Liver Cirrhosis, National Clinical Research Center of Digestive Diseases, Liver Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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17
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Smith A, Huang M, Watkins T, Burguin F, Baskin J, Garlick JA. De novo production of human extracellular matrix supports increased throughput and cellular complexity in 3D skin equivalent model. J Tissue Eng Regen Med 2020; 14:1019-1027. [PMID: 32483913 DOI: 10.1002/term.3071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2019] [Revised: 04/14/2020] [Accepted: 05/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Three-dimensional (3D) tissue models of human skin are being developed to better understand disease phenotypes and to screen new drugs for potential therapies. Several factors will increase the value of these in vitro 3D skin tissues for these purposes. These include the need for human-derived extracellular matrix (ECM), higher throughput tissue formats, and greater cellular complexity. Here, we present an approach for the fabrication of 3D skin-like tissues as a platform that addresses these three considerations. We demonstrate that human adult and neonatal fibroblasts deposit an endogenous ECM de novo that serves as an effective stroma for full epithelial tissue development and differentiation. We have miniaturized these tissues to a 24-well format to adapt them for eventual higher throughput drug screening. We have shown that monocytes from the peripheral blood can be incorporated into this model as macrophages to increase tissue complexity. This humanized skin-like tissue decreases dependency on animal-derived ECM while increasing cellular complexity that can enable screening inflammatory responses in tissue models of human skin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avi Smith
- Department of Diagnostic Science, Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Mengqi Huang
- Department of Diagnostic Science, Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Molecular and Systems Biology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH, USA
| | - Trishawna Watkins
- Department of Diagnostic Science, Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Fiona Burguin
- Department of Diagnostic Science, Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jeremy Baskin
- Department of Diagnostic Science, Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jonathan A Garlick
- Department of Diagnostic Science, Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
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18
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Huang M, Cai G, Baugh LM, Liu Z, Smith A, Watson M, Popovich D, Zhang T, Stawski LS, Trojanowska M, Georgakoudi I, Black LD, Pioli PA, Whitfield ML, Garlick J. Systemic Sclerosis Dermal Fibroblasts Induce Cutaneous Fibrosis Through Lysyl Oxidase-like 4: New Evidence From Three-Dimensional Skin-like Tissues. Arthritis Rheumatol 2020; 72:791-801. [PMID: 31705627 DOI: 10.1002/art.41163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2019] [Accepted: 11/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a clinically heterogeneous disease characterized by increased collagen accumulation and skin stiffness. Our previous work has demonstrated that transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) induces extracellular matrix (ECM) modifications through lysyl oxidase-like 4 (LOXL-4), a collagen crosslinking enzyme, in bioengineered human skin equivalents (HSEs) and self-assembled stromal tissues (SAS). We undertook this study to investigate cutaneous fibrosis and the role of LOXL-4 in SSc pathogenesis using HSEs and SAS. METHODS SSc-derived dermal fibroblasts (SScDFs; n = 8) and normal dermal fibroblasts (NDFs; n = 6) were incorporated into HSEs and SAS. These 3-dimensional skin-like microenvironments were used to study the effects of dysregulated LOXL-4 on ECM remodeling, fibroblast activation, and response to TGFβ stimulation. RESULTS SScDF-containing SAS showed increased stromal thickness, collagen deposition, and interleukin-6 secretion compared to NDF-containing SAS (P < 0.05). In HSE, SScDFs altered collagen as seen by a more mature and aligned fibrillar structure (P < 0.05). With SScDFs, enhanced stromal rigidity with increased collagen crosslinking (P < 0.05), up-regulation of LOXL4 expression (P < 0.01), and innate immune signaling genes were observed in both tissue models. Conversely, knockdown of LOXL4 suppressed rigidity, contraction, and α-smooth muscle actin expression in SScDFs in HSE, and TGFβ-induced ECM aggregation and collagen crosslinking in SAS. CONCLUSION A limitation to the development of effective therapeutics in SSc is the lack of in vitro human model systems that replicate human skin. Our findings demonstrate that SAS and HSE can serve as complementary in vitro skin-like models for investigation of the mechanisms and mediators that drive fibrosis in SSc and implicate a pivotal role for LOXL-4 in SSc pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengqi Huang
- Tufts University School of Dental Medicine and Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, and Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, New Hampshire
| | - Guoshuai Cai
- Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, New Hampshire, and University of South Carolina Arnold School of Public Health, Columbia
| | | | - Zhiyi Liu
- Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts, and Zhejiang University College of Optical Science and Engineering, Hangzhou, China
| | - Avi Smith
- Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | - Dillon Popovich
- Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, New Hampshire
| | - Tianyue Zhang
- Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | | | | | - Lauren D Black
- Tufts University School of Medicine Sackler School for Graduate Biomedical Sciences, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | | | - Jonathan Garlick
- Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
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