1
|
Ma S, Qiu Y, Zhang C. Cytoskeleton Rearrangement in Podocytopathies: An Update. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:647. [PMID: 38203817 PMCID: PMC10779434 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25010647] [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: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/01/2024] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Podocyte injury can disrupt the glomerular filtration barrier (GFB), leading to podocytopathies that emphasize podocytes as the glomerulus's key organizer. The coordinated cytoskeleton is essential for supporting the elegant structure and complete functions of podocytes. Therefore, cytoskeleton rearrangement is closely related to the pathogenesis of podocytopathies. In podocytopathies, the rearrangement of the cytoskeleton refers to significant alterations in a string of slit diaphragm (SD) and focal adhesion proteins such as the signaling node nephrin, calcium influx via transient receptor potential channel 6 (TRPC6), and regulation of the Rho family, eventually leading to the disorganization of the original cytoskeletal architecture. Thus, it is imperative to focus on these proteins and signaling pathways to probe the cytoskeleton rearrangement in podocytopathies. In this review, we describe podocytopathies and the podocyte cytoskeleton, then discuss the molecular mechanisms involved in cytoskeleton rearrangement in podocytopathies and summarize the effects of currently existing drugs on regulating the podocyte cytoskeleton.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Chun Zhang
- Department of Nephrology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China; (S.M.); (Y.Q.)
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Chen B, Guan X, Gunning WT, Ge Y, Gohara AF, Dworkin LD, Gong R. Negative Modulation of B Cell Activation by Melanocortin 1 Receptor Signaling Protects against Membranous Nephropathy. J Am Soc Nephrol 2023; 34:467-481. [PMID: 36446431 PMCID: PMC10103281 DOI: 10.1681/asn.2022050605] [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: 05/25/2022] [Revised: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Emerging evidence suggests that melanocortin neuropeptides-specifically adrenocorticotropic hormone-offer a novel, steroidogenic-independent therapeutic modality for membranous nephropathy (MN). The molecular mechanism underlying this beneficial effect, however, remains largely elusive. To investigate whether melanocortins modulate humoral immunity, the authors induced passive Heymann nephritis, a model of human MN, in wild-type and melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R) knockout rats and treated them with melanocortin agents. Additional rats received adoptive transfer of bone marrow-derived cells beforehand from wild-type or MC1R knockout rats. The findings indicate that MC1R signaling plays a key role in negative modulation of B-cell activation and thereby suppresses humoral immune responses in passive Heymann nephritis, and suggest that MC1R signaling might offer a novel B cell-targeted therapeutic strategy for MN. BACKGROUND Emerging evidence suggests that the pituitary neuropeptide melanocortins-specifically, adrenocorticotropic hormone-offer a novel nonsteroidogenic therapeutic modality for membranous nephropathy (MN). However, the mechanism(s) of action remains elusive. METHODS To investigate whether melanocortins modulate humoral immunity, we induced passive Heymann nephritis (PHN), a model of MN, in wild-type (WT) and melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R) knockout (KO) rats. We treated the animals with melanocortin agents-repository corticotropin injection, the nonsteroidogenic pan-melanocortin receptor agonist [Nle 4 , DPhe 7 ]-α-melanocyte stimulating hormone, the selective MC1R agonist MS05, vehicle gel, or phosphate-buffered saline-and evaluated kidney function, histology, and molecular changes. Additional rats received adoptive transfer of syngeneic bone marrow-derived cells beforehand from WT or MC1R KO rats. RESULTS KO of MC1R worsened PHN and this was associated with increased deposition of autologous immunoglobulin G (IgG) and complement C5b-9 in glomeruli and higher circulating levels of autologous IgG-evidence of a sensitized humoral immune response. Melanocortin therapy ameliorated PHN in WT rats, coinciding with reduced glomerular deposition of autologous IgG and C5b -9. The beneficial efficacy of melanocortins was blunted in KO rats but restored by adoptive transfer of syngeneic bone marrow-derived cells derived from WT rats. Mechanistically, MC1R was expressed in B lymphocytes and was negatively associated with B cell activation. MC1R agonism triggered the expression of microphthalmia-associated transcription factor in activated B cells in a cAMP-dependent mode and also repressed the expression of interferon regulatory factor 4 (a lymphoid transcription factor essential for B-cell development and maturation), resulting in suppressed plasma cell differentiation and IgG production. CONCLUSIONS MC1R signaling negatively modulates B cell activation and suppresses humoral immune responses in PHN, suggesting that MC1R signaling might offer a novel therapeutic target for MN.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bohan Chen
- Division of Nephrology, University of Toledo College of Medicine, Toledo, Ohio
- Current address: Blood Purification Center, Institute of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xuejing Guan
- Division of Nephrology, University of Toledo College of Medicine, Toledo, Ohio
| | - William T. Gunning
- Department of Pathology, University of Toledo Medical Center, Toledo, Ohio
| | - Yan Ge
- Division of Nephrology, University of Toledo College of Medicine, Toledo, Ohio
| | - Amira F. Gohara
- Department of Pathology, University of Toledo Medical Center, Toledo, Ohio
| | - Lance D. Dworkin
- Division of Nephrology, University of Toledo College of Medicine, Toledo, Ohio
- Division of Kidney Disease and Hypertension, Rhode Island Hospital, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - Rujun Gong
- Division of Nephrology, University of Toledo College of Medicine, Toledo, Ohio
- Division of Kidney Disease and Hypertension, Rhode Island Hospital, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Toledo College of Medicine, Toledo, Ohio
- Center for Diabetes and Endocrine Research, University of Toledo Medical Center, Toledo, Ohio
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Guan X, Chen B, Malhotra DK, Gohara AF, Dworkin LD, Gong R. Hematopoietic-specific melanocortin 1 receptor signaling protects against nephrotoxic serum nephritis and mediates the beneficial effect of melanocortin therapy. Kidney Int 2023; 103:331-342. [PMID: 36374665 PMCID: PMC10431720 DOI: 10.1016/j.kint.2022.09.025] [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: 08/05/2021] [Revised: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The melanocortin hormone system has emerged as a novel therapeutic target for treating refractory glomerular diseases. However, the role of hematopoietic melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R) signaling remains unknown. Upon insult by rabbit nephrotoxic serum, MC1R null-mutant mice developed more severe crescentic glomerulonephritis than wild-type mice, marked by aggravated proteinuria, kidney dysfunction and histologic lesions. Melanocortin therapy, using Repository Corticotropin Injection (Acthar Gel), the pan-melanocortin receptor agonist NDP-MSH, or the MC1R agonist MS05, ameliorated experimental nephritis in wild-type mice but this effect was blunted in null mice. Exacerbated experimental nephritis in null mice was associated with increased glomerular deposition of autologous IgG and C5b-9, in parallel with higher circulating levels of autologous IgG2c and IgG3. Additionally, the Th1 immune response was potentiated in null mice with experimental nephritis, accompanied by diminished kidney FoxP3+ regulatory T cells. Kidney infiltration of macrophages was also augmented by MC1R deficiency with an enhanced M1 polarization. Moreover, adoptive transfer of syngeneic bone marrow-derived cells from wild-type mice mitigated experimental nephritis in null mice and restored the beneficial efficacy of melanocortins. Mechanistically, MC1R was expressed by diverse subsets of kidney leukocytes, including macrophages, T and B lymphocytes, and was inversely associated with the NFκB pathway, a key player in immune responses. MS05 attenuated the production of rabbit IgG-specific IgG2c and IgG3 in cultured wild-type splenocytes, and promoted M2 polarization in M1-primed wild-type macrophages, associated with NFκB inhibition. In contrast, in null splenocytes or macrophages, this effect of MS05 was barely detectable, but was mimicked by an NFκB inhibitor. Thus, hematopoietic MC1R signaling attenuates experimental nephritis and mediates the beneficial effect of melanocortin therapy via, in part, regulating the immune response.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xuejing Guan
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Toledo College of Medicine, Toledo, Ohio, USA; The Center for Diabetes and Endocrine Research, University of Toledo Medical Center, Toledo, Ohio, USA
| | - Bohan Chen
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Toledo College of Medicine, Toledo, Ohio, USA; The Center for Diabetes and Endocrine Research, University of Toledo Medical Center, Toledo, Ohio, USA; Division of Kidney Disease and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University School of Medicine, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Deepak K Malhotra
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Toledo College of Medicine, Toledo, Ohio, USA
| | - Amira F Gohara
- Department of Pathology, University of Toledo Medical Center, Toledo, Ohio, USA
| | - Lance D Dworkin
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Toledo College of Medicine, Toledo, Ohio, USA
| | - Rujun Gong
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Toledo College of Medicine, Toledo, Ohio, USA; The Center for Diabetes and Endocrine Research, University of Toledo Medical Center, Toledo, Ohio, USA; Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Toledo College of Medicine, Toledo, Ohio, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Ahmadian E, Eftekhari A, Atakishizada S, Valiyeva M, Ardalan M, Khalilov R, Kavetskyy T. Podocytopathy: The role of actin cytoskeleton. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 156:113920. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2022] [Revised: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
|
5
|
Laiho L, Murray JF. The Multifaceted Melanocortin Receptors. Endocrinology 2022; 163:6608375. [PMID: 35700124 PMCID: PMC9214563 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqac083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
The 5 known melanocortin receptors (MCs) have established physiological roles. With the exception of MC2, these receptors can behave unpredictably, and since they are more widely expressed than their established roles would suggest, it is likely that they have other poorly characterized functions. The aim of this review is to discuss some of the less well-explored aspects of the 4 enigmatic members of this receptor family (MC1,3-5) and describe how these are multifaceted G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). These receptors appear to be promiscuous in that they bind several endogenous agonists (products of the proopiomelanocortin [POMC] gene) and antagonists but with inconsistent relative affinities and effects. We propose that this is a result of posttranslational modifications that determine receptor localization within nanodomains. Within each nanodomain there will be a variety of proteins, including ion channels, modifying proteins, and other GPCRs, that can interact with the MCs to alter the availability of receptor at the cell surface as well as the intracellular signaling resulting from receptor activation. Different combinations of interacting proteins and MCs may therefore give rise to the complex and inconsistent functional profiles reported for the MCs. For further progress in understanding this family, improved characterization of tissue-specific functions is required. Current evidence for interactions of these receptors with a range of partners, resulting in modulation of cell signaling, suggests that each should be studied within the full context of their interacting partners. The role of physiological status in determining this context also remains to be characterized.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Linda Laiho
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Joanne Fiona Murray
- Correspondence: J. F. Murray, PhD, Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Hugh Robson Building, 15 George Square, Edinburgh EH8 9DX, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Chen B, Alam Z, Ge Y, Dworkin L, Gong R. Pharmacological Melanocortin 5 Receptor Activation Attenuates Glomerular Injury and Proteinuria in Rats With Puromycin Aminonucleoside Nephrosis. Front Physiol 2022; 13:887641. [PMID: 35721571 PMCID: PMC9198460 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.887641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Clinical evidence indicates that the melanocortin peptide ACTH is effective in inducing remission of nephrotic glomerulopathies like minimal change disease (MCD) and focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), including those resistant to steroids. This suggests that a steroid-independent melancortinergic mechanism may contribute. However, the type of melanocortin receptor (MCR) that conveys this beneficial effect as well as the underlying mechanisms remain controversial. Burgeoning evidence suggests that MC5R is expressed in glomeruli and may be involved in glomerular pathobiology. This study aims to test the effectiveness of a novel highly selective MC5R agonist (MC5R-A) in puromycin aminonucleoside (PAN) nephrosis. Upon PAN injury, rats developed evident proteinuria on day 5, denoting an established nephrotic glomerulopathy. Following vehicle treatment, proteinuria continued to persist on day 14 with prominent histologic signs of podocytopathy, marked by ultrastructural glomerular lesions, including extensive podocyte foot process effacement. Concomitantly, there was loss of podocyte homeostatic markers, such as synaptopodin and podocin, and de novo expression of the podocyte injury marker desmin. Treatment with MC5R-A attenuated urine protein excretion and mitigated the loss of podocyte marker proteins, resulting in improved podocyte ultrastructural changes. In vitro in cultured podocytes, MC5R-A prevented the PAN-induced disruption of actin cytoskeleton integrity and apoptosis. MC5R-A treatment in PAN-injured podocytes also reinstated inhibitory phosphorylation and thus averted hyperactivity of GSK3β, a convergent point of multiple podocytopathic pathways. Collectively, pharmacologic activation of MC5R by using the highly selective small-molecule agonist is likely a promising therapeutic strategy to improve proteinuria and glomerular injury in protenuric nephropathies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bohan Chen
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Toledo Medical Center, Toledo, OH, United States
- The Center for Diabetes and Endocrine Research, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH, United States
- Center for Hypertension and Precision Medicine, University of Toledo Medical Center, Toledo, OH, United States
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences, Toledo, OH, United States
| | - Zubia Alam
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Toledo Medical Center, Toledo, OH, United States
| | - Yan Ge
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Toledo Medical Center, Toledo, OH, United States
| | - Lance Dworkin
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Toledo Medical Center, Toledo, OH, United States
| | - Rujun Gong
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Toledo Medical Center, Toledo, OH, United States
- The Center for Diabetes and Endocrine Research, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH, United States
- Center for Hypertension and Precision Medicine, University of Toledo Medical Center, Toledo, OH, United States
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences, Toledo, OH, United States
- *Correspondence: Rujun Gong,
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Chen Y, Wang Z, Li Q, Tian M, Zhu Y, Yu L, Wang J, Sun S. CXCL16/ERK1/2 pathway regulates human podocytes growth, migration, apoptosis and epithelial mesenchymal transition. Mol Med Rep 2022; 25:212. [PMID: 35514316 PMCID: PMC9133949 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2022.12728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary nephrotic syndrome (PNS) is the commonest glomerular disease affecting children. Previous studies have confirmed that CXC motif chemokine ligand 16 (CXCL16) is involved in the pathogenesis of PNS. However, the exact mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of PNS remain to be elucidated. Thus, the present study aimed to elucidate the role of CXCL16 in PNS. It was found that the expression of CXCL16 and extracellular signal‑regulated kinases 1 and 2 (ERK1/2) were significantly increased in clinical PNS renal tissues using reverse transcription‑quantitative PCR, western blot analysis and immunohistochemistry. Lentivirus overexpression or short hairpin RNA vector was used to induce the overexpression or knockdown of CXCL16 in podocytes, respectively. Overexpression of CXCL16 in podocytes could decrease the cell proliferation and increase the migration and apoptosis, whereas CXCL16 knockdown increased cell proliferation and decreased cell migration and apoptosis. Results of the present study further demonstrated that ERK2 protein expression was regulated by CXCL16. The knockdown of ERK2 expression reversed the effects of CXCL16 on the proliferation, apoptosis, migration and epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) of podocytes. Collectively, the findings of the present study highlighted that the CXCL16/ERK1/2 pathway regulates the growth, migration, apoptosis and EMT of human podocytes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Chen
- Department of Pediatrics, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, P.R. China
- Department of Pediatrics, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, P.R. China
| | - Zhiyi Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, P.R. China
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, P.R. China
| | - Qian Li
- Department of Pediatrics, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, P.R. China
- Department of Pediatrics, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, P.R. China
| | - Minle Tian
- Department of Pediatrics, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, P.R. China
| | - Yanji Zhu
- Department of Pediatrics, People's Hospital of Rizhao, Rizhao, Shandong 276800, P.R. China
| | - Lichun Yu
- Department of Pediatrics, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, P.R. China
- Department of Pediatrics, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, P.R. China
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Pediatrics, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, P.R. China
- Department of Pediatrics, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, P.R. China
| | - Shuzhen Sun
- Department of Pediatrics, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, P.R. China
- Department of Pediatrics, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Hu D, Li J, Zhuang Y, Mao X. Adrenocorticotropic hormone: An expansion of our current understanding of the treatment for nephrotic syndrome. Steroids 2021; 176:108930. [PMID: 34648797 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2021.108930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2020] [Revised: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
In clinical practice, we may encounter a treatment dilemma where in some patients with nephrotic syndrome are resistant to glucocorticoids or immunosuppressive agents. Thus, we currently lack viable treatment options and eagerly await the availability of new drugs. Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) had earlier been used to treat nephrotic syndrome in children, but has now become less popular owing to the advent of oral glucocorticoids. However, in recent studies, ACTH was reportedly used again for treating nephrotic syndrome, reducing proteinuria and protecting renal function, indicating a possibility for its use in the treatment of refractory nephrotic syndrome. This review analysed the validity of ACTH in these studies, focusing on the mechanism of action, application in both paediatric and adult patients with nephrotic syndrome, particularly in children, and possible side effects. We anticipate that our findings will help clinicians in treatment decision-making.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dongxu Hu
- Southwest Medical University, No. 1, Section 1, Xianglin Road, Longmatan District, Luzhou City, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Jiaqin Li
- Southwest Medical University, No. 1, Section 1, Xianglin Road, Longmatan District, Luzhou City, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Yuan Zhuang
- Department of Paediatrics, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Birth Defects, No. 25, Taiping Street, Luzhou City, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Xiaoyan Mao
- Department of Paediatrics, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Birth Defects, No. 25, Taiping Street, Luzhou City, Sichuan Province, China.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Naseer MS, Singh A, Singh N. Repository Corticotropin in Treating de novo C3 Glomerulonephritis after Transplantation. GLOMERULAR DISEASES 2021; 2:100-105. [PMID: 36751532 PMCID: PMC9670034 DOI: 10.1159/000520387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 10/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Introduction De novo C3 glomerulonephritis (C3GN) after transplant is uncommon. Although eculizumab has been used successfully in several cases, the response is heterogeneous, and treatment strategies remain undefined. The use of repository corticotropin in C3GN has not been described in the literature. Case Report A 48-year-old African American male with kidney transplantation secondary to presumed diabetic nephropathy presented 6 years after transplant with lower extremity edema and nephrotic range proteinuria. His urine protein to creatinine ratio (UPCR) was 8.2 g/g. Renal allograft biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of C3GN. He was treated with eculizumab (Solaris®) 900 mg IV once weekly for 4 weeks and repository corticotropin (H.P. Acthar® gel) 80 units SQ twice weekly for 6 months with a near-complete resolution of proteinuria within 3 months of the treatment. The patient presented again 6 months after completing the therapy with a recurrence of proteinuria, which peaked at 11.6 g/g of UPCR. Repeat kidney allograft biopsy was consistent with C3GN. He was started on repository corticotropin 80 units SQ twice weekly, which resulted in a reduction of proteinuria to >50% within 2 months of therapy. When eculizumab 900 mg IV weekly for 4 weeks was added with repository corticotropin, the proteinuria resolved within 10 weeks of treatment. The patient was maintained on monotherapy of repository corticotropin and has been in complete remission of proteinuria for more than a year until his last follow-up. Conclusion This is the first case report describing the role of repository corticotropin as an effective therapy in reducing proteinuria and maintaining patients with C3GN in proteinuria remission.
Collapse
|
10
|
De Vriese AS, Wetzels JF, Glassock RJ, Sethi S, Fervenza FC. Therapeutic trials in adult FSGS: lessons learned and the road forward. Nat Rev Nephrol 2021; 17:619-630. [PMID: 34017116 PMCID: PMC8136112 DOI: 10.1038/s41581-021-00427-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) is not a specific disease entity but a lesion that primarily targets the podocyte. In a broad sense, the causes of the lesion can be divided into those triggered by a presumed circulating permeability factor, those that occur secondary to a process that might originate outside the kidneys, those caused by a genetic mutation in a podocyte or glomerular basement membrane protein, and those that arise through an as yet unidentifiable process, seemingly unrelated to a circulating permeability factor. A careful attempt to correctly stratify patients with FSGS based on their clinical presentation and pathological findings on kidney biopsy is essential for sound treatment decisions in individual patients. However, it is also essential for the rational design of therapeutic trials in FSGS. Greater recognition of the pathophysiology underlying podocyte stress and damage in FSGS will increase the likelihood that the cause of an FSGS lesion is properly identified and enable stratification of patients in future interventional trials. Such efforts will facilitate the identification of effective therapeutic agents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- An S. De Vriese
- grid.420036.30000 0004 0626 3792Division of Nephrology and Infectious Diseases, AZ Sint-Jan Brugge, Brugge, Belgium ,grid.5342.00000 0001 2069 7798Department of Internal Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jack F. Wetzels
- grid.10417.330000 0004 0444 9382Department of Nephrology, Radboud University Medical Center, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Richard J. Glassock
- grid.19006.3e0000 0000 9632 6718Department of Medicine, Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA USA
| | - Sanjeev Sethi
- grid.66875.3a0000 0004 0459 167XDepartment of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN USA
| | - Fernando C. Fervenza
- grid.66875.3a0000 0004 0459 167XDivision of Nephrology and Hypertension, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Wang Y, Fan S, Yang M, Shi G, Hu S, Yin D, Zhang Y, Xu F. Evaluation of the mechanism of Danggui-Shaoyao-San in regulating the metabolome of nephrotic syndrome based on urinary metabonomics and bioinformatics approaches. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2020; 261:113020. [PMID: 32592886 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2020.113020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2019] [Revised: 05/22/2020] [Accepted: 05/24/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Danggui-Shaoyao-San (DSS), a well-known classic Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formula for enhancing Qi (vital energy and spirit), invigorating blood circulation and promoting diuresis, has been widely used in the treatment of nephrotic syndrome (NS). Previously, we have reported some protective effects of DSS against NS, but the in-depth mechanisms remain unclear. AIM OF THE STUDY In this study, an ultra performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole-time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q/TOF-MS)-based urinary metabonomics coupled with bioinformatics method was employed to evaluate the mechanisms of DSS in treating NS from the perspective of metabolism. MATERIALS AND METHODS The rat models of NS were established using adriamycin injection. The regulative effects of DSS on NS in rats were first assessed by non-targeted metabonomics, which was based on UPLC-Q/TOF-MS. A series of target prediction models were used to predict the target of components identified in DSS and potential metabolites in NS, combined with the experimental results of metabonomics, to construct the biological network. RESULTS A total of 16 potential metabolites were screened in NS, of which 13 were significantly regulated by DSS. Metabolic pathway analysis showed that the therapeutic effect of DSS on NS was mainly involved in regulating the amino acid metabolism and energy metabolism. The component-target-metabolites-pathway network revealed 29 targets associated with metabolites that were linked to 27 components of DSS. Bioinformatics analysis showed that the potential targets have various molecular functions (especially serine-type endopeptidase inhibitor activity) and biological process (such as positive regulation of peptidyl-tyrosine phosphorylation or autophosphorylation). CONCLUSIONS The regulation of disrupted metabolic pathways and the relative targets may be the mechanism for DSS in the treatment of NS. Notably, metabonomics coupled with bioinformatics would be useful to explore the mechanism of DSS against NS and provide better insights on DSS for clinical use.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yunlai Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, PR China; Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Formula of Anhui Province, Hefei, 230012, PR China.
| | - Shengnan Fan
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, PR China; Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Formula of Anhui Province, Hefei, 230012, PR China.
| | - Mo Yang
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, PR China; Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Formula of Anhui Province, Hefei, 230012, PR China.
| | - Gaoxiang Shi
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, PR China; Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Formula of Anhui Province, Hefei, 230012, PR China.
| | - Siyao Hu
- The Chinese University of Hong Kong (Shenzhen), Shenzhen, 518172, PR China.
| | - Dengke Yin
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, PR China; Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Formula of Anhui Province, Hefei, 230012, PR China.
| | - Yazhong Zhang
- Anhui Institute for Food and Drug Control, Hefei, 230051, PR China.
| | - Fan Xu
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, PR China; Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Formula of Anhui Province, Hefei, 230012, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Huang YJ, Galen K, Zweifel B, Brooks LR, Wright AD. Distinct binding and signaling activity of Acthar Gel compared to other melanocortin receptor agonists. J Recept Signal Transduct Res 2020; 41:425-433. [PMID: 32938265 DOI: 10.1080/10799893.2020.1818094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To compare the binding and agonistic activity of Acthar® Gel and synthetic melanocortin receptor (MCR) agonists and examine how the activity of select agonists affects the in vivo production of corticosterone. MATERIALS AND METHODS In vitro binding was determined using concentration-dependent displacement of the ligand [125I]Nle4, D-Phe7-α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) on cells expressing MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, or MC5R. Functional activity was determined using a time-resolved fluorescence cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) assay in cells expressing MC1R, MC2R, MC3R, MC4R, or MC5R. In vivo corticosterone analyses were performed by measuring plasma corticosterone levels in Sprague Dawley rats. RESULTS Acthar Gel and synthetic MCR agonists exhibited the highest binding at MC1R, lowest binding at MC5R, and moderate binding at MC3R and MC4R. Acthar Gel stimulated the production of cAMP in all 5 MCR-expressing cell lines, with MC2R displaying the lowest level of full agonist activity, 3-, 6.6-, and 10-fold lower than MC1R, MC3R, and MC4R, respectively. Acthar Gel was a partial agonist at MC5R. The synthetic MCR agonists induced full activity at all 5 MCRs, with the exception of α-MSH having no activity at MC2R. Acthar Gel treatment had less of an impact on in vivo production of corticosterone compared with synthetic ACTH1-24 depot. CONCLUSIONS Acthar Gel bound to and activated each MCR tested in this study, with partial agonist activity at MC5R and the lowest level of full agonist activity at MC2R, which distinguished it from synthetic MCR agonists. The minimal activity of Acthar Gel at MC2R corresponded to lower endogenous corticosteroid production.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Y Joyce Huang
- Cellular and Molecular Biology, Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals, Hazelwood, MO, USA
| | - Karen Galen
- Immunology and Pharmacology, Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals, Hazelwood, MO, USA
| | - Ben Zweifel
- Immunology and Pharmacology, Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals, Hazelwood, MO, USA
| | - Leah R Brooks
- Medical Affairs, Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals, Hazelwood, MO, USA
| | - A Dale Wright
- Immunology and Pharmacology, Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals, Hazelwood, MO, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Hayes K, Warner E, Bollinger C, Wright D, Fitch RM. Repository corticotropin injection versus corticosteroids for protection against renal damage in a focal segmental glomerulosclerosis rodent model. BMC Nephrol 2020; 21:226. [PMID: 32539845 PMCID: PMC7296742 DOI: 10.1186/s12882-020-01879-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2019] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) causes renal fibrosis and may lead to kidney failure. FSGS and its common complication, proteinuria, are challenging to treat. Corticosteroids are ineffective in many patients with FSGS, and alternative treatments often yield suboptimal responses. Repository corticotropin injection (RCI; Acthar® Gel), a naturally sourced complex mixture of purified adrenocorticotropic hormone analogs and other pituitary peptides, may have beneficial effects on idiopathic FSGS via melanocortin receptor activation. Methods Two studies in a preclinical (female Sprague-Dawley rats) puromycin aminonucleoside FSGS model assessed the effect of RCI on renal function and morphology: an 8-week comparison of a single RCI dose with methylprednisolone (N = 27), and a 12-week chronic RCI dose range study (N = 34). Primary outcomes were proteinuria and renal pathology improvements for measures of renal fibrosis, tubular damage, glomerular injury, and total kidney injury score. Impact of RCI treatment was also determined by assessing urinary biomarkers for renal injury, podocyte expression of podoplanin (a biomarker for injury), podocyte effacement by electron microscopy, and histological staining for fibrosis biomarkers. Results Compared with saline treatment, RCI 30 IU/kg significantly reduced proteinuria, with a 38% reduction in peak mean urine protein levels on day 28 in the 8-week model, and RCI 10 IU/kg, 30 IU/kg, and 60 IU/kg reduced peak mean urine protein in the 12-week model by 18, 47, and 44%, respectively. RCI also showed significant dose-dependent improvements in fibrosis, interstitial inflammation, tubular injury, and glomerular changes. Total kidney injury score (calculated from histopathological evaluations) demonstrated statistically significant improvements with RCI 30 IU/kg in the 8-week study and RCI 60 IU/kg in the 12-week study. RCI treatment improved levels of urinary biomarkers of kidney injury (KIM-1 and OPN), expression of podoplanin, and podocyte morphology. RCI also reduced levels of desmin and fibrosis-associated collagen deposition staining. Methylprednisolone did not improve renal function or pathology in this model. Conclusions These results provide evidence supporting the improvement of FSGS with RCI, which was superior to corticosteroid treatment in this experimental model. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first evidence that a drug for the treatment of FSGS supports podocyte recovery after repeated injury.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kyle Hayes
- Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals, 675 James S. McDonnell Blvd, 20-1-W, Hazelwood, MO, USA.
| | - Elizabeth Warner
- Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals, 675 James S. McDonnell Blvd, 20-1-W, Hazelwood, MO, USA
| | - Chris Bollinger
- Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals, 675 James S. McDonnell Blvd, 20-1-W, Hazelwood, MO, USA
| | - Dale Wright
- Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals, 675 James S. McDonnell Blvd, 20-1-W, Hazelwood, MO, USA
| | - Richard M Fitch
- Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals, 675 James S. McDonnell Blvd, 20-1-W, Hazelwood, MO, USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Melanocortin therapy ameliorates podocytopathy and proteinuria in experimental focal segmental glomerulosclerosis involving a podocyte specific non-MC1R-mediated melanocortinergic signaling. Clin Sci (Lond) 2020; 134:695-710. [PMID: 32167144 PMCID: PMC9870294 DOI: 10.1042/cs20200016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2020] [Revised: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 03/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
The clinical effectiveness of adrenocorticotropin in inducing remission of steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome points to a steroidogenic-independent anti-proteinuric activity of melanocortins. However, which melanocortin receptors (MCR) convey this beneficial effect and if systemic or podocyte-specific mechanisms are involved remain uncertain. In vivo, wild-type (WT) mice developed heavy proteinuria and kidney dysfunction following Adriamycin insult, concomitant with focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) and podocytopathy, marked by loss of podocin and synaptopodin, podocytopenia and extensive foot process effacement on electron microscopy. All these pathologic findings were prominently attenuated by NDP-MSH, a potent non-steroidogenic pan-MCR agonist. Surprisingly, MC1R deficiency in MC1R-null mice barely affected the severity of Adriamycin-elicited injury. Moreover, the beneficial effect of NDP-MSH was completely preserved in MC1R-null mice, suggesting that MC1R is likely non-essential for the protective action. A direct podocyte effect seems to contribute to the beneficial effect of NDP-MSH, because Adriamycin-inflicted cytopathic signs in primary podocytes prepared from WT mice were all mitigated by NDP-MSH, including apoptosis, loss of podocyte markers, de novo expression of the podocyte injury marker desmin, actin cytoskeleton derangement and podocyte hypermotility. Consistent with in vivo findings, the podoprotective activity of NDP-MSH was fully preserved in MC1R-null podocytes. Mechanistically, MC1R expression was predominantly distributed to glomerular endothelial cells in glomeruli but negligibly noted in podocytes in vivo and in vitro, suggesting that MC1R signaling is unlikely involved in direct podocyte protection. Ergo, melanocortin therapy protects against podocyte injury and ameliorates proteinuria and glomerulopathy in experimental FSGS, at least in part, via a podocyte-specific non-MC1R-mediated melanocortinergic signaling.
Collapse
|