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Bielka W, Przezak A, Pawlik A. Follistatin and follistatin-like 3 in metabolic disorders. Prostaglandins Other Lipid Mediat 2023; 169:106785. [PMID: 37739334 DOI: 10.1016/j.prostaglandins.2023.106785] [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: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 09/02/2023] [Accepted: 09/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023]
Abstract
Follistatin (FST) is a glycoprotein which main role is antagonizing activity of transforming growth factor β superfamily members. Folistatin-related proteins such as follistatin-like 3 (FSTL3) also reveal these properties. The exact function of them has still not been established, but it can be bound to the pathogenesis of metabolic disorders. So far, there were performed a few studies about their role in type 2 diabetes, obesity or gestational diabetes and even less in type 1 diabetes. The outcomes are contradictory and do not allow to draw exact conclusions. In this article we summarize the available information about connections between follistatin, as well as follistatin-like 3, and metabolic disorders. We also emphasize the strong need of performing further research to explain their exact role, especially in the pathogenesis of diabetes and obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weronika Bielka
- Department of Rheumatology and Internal Medicine, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, 71-252 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Przezak
- Department of Rheumatology and Internal Medicine, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, 71-252 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Andrzej Pawlik
- Department of Physiology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland.
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Hamang M, Yaden B, Dai G. Gastrointestinal pharmacology activins in liver health and disease. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 214:115668. [PMID: 37364623 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Activins are a subgroup of the TGFβ superfamily of growth and differentiation factors, dimeric in nature and consisting of two inhibin beta subunits linked via a disulfide bridge. Canonical activin signaling occurs through Smad2/3, with negative feedback initiated by Smad6/7 following signal transduction, which binds activin type I receptor preventing phosphorylation of Smad2/3 and activation of downstream signaling. In addition to Smad6/7, other inhibitors of activin signaling have been identified as well, including inhibins (dimers of an inhibin alpha and beta subunit), BAMBI, Cripto, follistatin, and follistatin-like 3 (fstl3). To date, activins A, B, AB, C, and E have been identified and isolated in mammals, with activin A and B having the most characterization of biological activity. Activin A has been implicated as a regulator of several important functions of liver biology, including hepatocyte proliferation and apoptosis, ECM production, and liver regeneration; the role of other subunits of activin in liver physiology are less understood. There is mounting data to suggest a link between dysregulation of activins contributing to various hepatic diseases such as inflammation, fibrosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma, and emerging studies demonstrating the protective and regenerative effects of inhibiting activins in mouse models of liver disease. Due to their importance in liver biology, activins demonstrate utility as a therapeutic target for the treatment of hepatic diseases such as cirrhosis, NASH, NAFLD, and HCC; further research regarding activins may provide diagnostic or therapeutic opportunity for those suffering from various liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Hamang
- Department of Biology, School of Science, Indiana University - Purdue University Indianapolis, IN, United States.
| | - Benjamin Yaden
- Department of Biology, School of Science, Indiana University - Purdue University Indianapolis, IN, United States.
| | - Guoli Dai
- Department of Biology, School of Science, Indiana University - Purdue University Indianapolis, IN, United States.
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Pant S, Bhati T, Dimri A, Arora R, Siraj F, Raisuddin S, Rastogi S. Chlamydia trachomatis infection regulates the expression of tetraspanins, activin-A, and inhibin-A in tubal ectopic pregnancy. Pathog Dis 2023; 81:ftad018. [PMID: 37480234 DOI: 10.1093/femspd/ftad018] [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: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Mechanism of Chlamydia trachomatis causing tubal ectopic pregnancy (EP) is not well understood. Tetraspanins (tspans), activin-A, and inhibin-A might play a role in the development of pathological conditions leading to EP. The study aimed to elucidate the expression of tspans, activin-A, and inhibin-A with a role of associated cytokines in C. trachomatis-associated EP and analyze interacting partners of DEGs, with an expression of a few important interacting genes. Fallopian tissue and serum were collected from 100 EP (Group I) and 100 controls (Group II) from SJH, New Delhi, India. Detection of C. trachomatis was done by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and IgG antibodies were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Expression of tspans, activin-A, inhibin-A, and cytokines was analyzed by real time (RT)-PCR and their interacting genes were assessed by STRING. Expression of few disease-associated interacting genes was studied by RT-PCR. A total of 29% (Group I) were C. trachomatis positive. Tspans and activin-A were significantly upregulated, while inhibin-A was significantly downregulated in Group Ia. ITGA1, TLR-2, ITGB2, and Smad-3 were a few interacting genes. Expression of ITGA1, TLR-2, and Smad-3 was significantly upregulated in C. trachomatis-positive EP. Results suggested dysregulated tspans, activin-A, and inhibin-A might play a role in C. trachomatis-infected tubal EP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shipra Pant
- Molecular Microbiology Laboratory, ICMR-National Institute of Pathology, Sriramachari Bhawan, Safdarjung Hospital Campus, Post Box 4909, New Delhi 110029, India
| | - Tanu Bhati
- Molecular Microbiology Laboratory, ICMR-National Institute of Pathology, Sriramachari Bhawan, Safdarjung Hospital Campus, Post Box 4909, New Delhi 110029, India
| | - Astha Dimri
- Molecular Microbiology Laboratory, ICMR-National Institute of Pathology, Sriramachari Bhawan, Safdarjung Hospital Campus, Post Box 4909, New Delhi 110029, India
| | - Renu Arora
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Vardhman Mahavir Medical College (VMMC) and Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi 110029, India
| | - Fouzia Siraj
- Pathology Laboratory, ICMR-National Institute of Pathology, Sriramachari Bhawan, Safdarjung Hospital Campus, Post Box 4909, New Delhi 110029, India
| | - Sheikh Raisuddin
- Department of Medical Elementology and Toxicology, Jamia Hamdard, Hamdard Nagar, New Delhi 10062, India
| | - Sangita Rastogi
- Molecular Microbiology Laboratory, ICMR-National Institute of Pathology, Sriramachari Bhawan, Safdarjung Hospital Campus, Post Box 4909, New Delhi 110029, India
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Waltereit-Kracke V, Wehmeyer C, Beckmann D, Werbenko E, Reinhardt J, Geers F, Dienstbier M, Fennen M, Intemann J, Paruzel P, Korb-Pap A, Pap T, Dankbar B. Deletion of activin A in mesenchymal but not myeloid cells ameliorates disease severity in experimental arthritis. Ann Rheum Dis 2022; 81:1106-1118. [PMID: 35418478 PMCID: PMC9279851 DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2021-221409] [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: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Objective The aim of this study was to assess the extent and the mechanism by which activin A contributes to progressive joint destruction in experimental arthritis and which activin A-expressing cell type is important for disease progression. Methods Levels of activin A in synovial tissues were evaluated by immunohistochemistry, cell-specific expression and secretion by PCR and ELISA, respectively. Osteoclast (OC) formation was assessed by tartrat-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining and activity by resorption assay. Quantitative assessment of joint inflammation and bone destruction was performed by histological and micro-CT analysis. Immunoblotting was applied for evaluation of signalling pathways. Results In this study, we demonstrate that fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS) are the main producers of activin A in arthritic joints. Most significantly, we show for the first time that deficiency of activin A in arthritic FLS (ActβAd/d ColVI-Cre) but not in myeloid cells (ActβAd/d LysM-Cre) reduces OC development in vitro, indicating that activin A promotes osteoclastogenesis in a paracrine manner. Mechanistically, activin A enhanced OC formation and activity by promoting the interaction of activated Smad2 with NFATc1, the key transcription factor of osteoclastogenesis. Consistently, ActβAd/d LysM-Cre hTNFtg mice did not show reduced disease severity, whereas deficiency of activin A in ColVI-Cre-expressing cells such as FLS highly diminished joint destruction reflected by less inflammation and less bone destruction. Conclusions The results highly suggest that FLS-derived activin A plays a crucial paracrine role in inflammatory joint destruction and may be a promising target for treating inflammatory disorders associated with OC formation and bone destruction like rheumatoid arthritis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Waltereit-Kracke
- Institute of Musculoskeletal Medicine, University Hospital Muenster, Muenster, Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany
| | - Corinna Wehmeyer
- Institute of Musculoskeletal Medicine, University Hospital Muenster, Muenster, Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany
| | - Denise Beckmann
- Institute of Musculoskeletal Medicine, University Hospital Muenster, Muenster, Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany
| | - Eugenie Werbenko
- Institute of Musculoskeletal Medicine, University Hospital Muenster, Muenster, Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany
| | - Julia Reinhardt
- Institute of Musculoskeletal Medicine, University Hospital Muenster, Muenster, Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany
| | - Fabienne Geers
- Institute of Musculoskeletal Medicine, University Hospital Muenster, Muenster, Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany
| | - Mike Dienstbier
- Institute of Musculoskeletal Medicine, University Hospital Muenster, Muenster, Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany
| | - Michelle Fennen
- Institute of Musculoskeletal Medicine, University Hospital Muenster, Muenster, Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany
| | - Johanna Intemann
- Institute of Musculoskeletal Medicine, University Hospital Muenster, Muenster, Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany
| | - Peter Paruzel
- Institute of Musculoskeletal Medicine, University Hospital Muenster, Muenster, Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany
| | - Adelheid Korb-Pap
- Institute of Musculoskeletal Medicine, University Hospital Muenster, Muenster, Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany
| | - Thomas Pap
- Institute of Musculoskeletal Medicine, University Hospital Muenster, Muenster, Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany
| | - Berno Dankbar
- Institute of Musculoskeletal Medicine, University Hospital Muenster, Muenster, Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany
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Hreha TN, Collins CA, Daugherty AL, Griffith JM, Hruska KA, Hunstad DA. Androgen-Influenced Polarization of Activin A-Producing Macrophages Accompanies Post-pyelonephritic Renal Scarring. Front Immunol 2020; 11:1641. [PMID: 32849562 PMCID: PMC7399094 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.01641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Accepted: 06/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Ascending bacterial pyelonephritis, a form of urinary tract infection (UTI) that can result in hospitalization, sepsis, and other complications, occurs in ~250,000 US patients annually; uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) cause a large majority of these infections. Although UTIs are primarily a disease of women, acute pyelonephritis in males is associated with increased mortality and morbidity, including renal scarring, and end-stage renal disease. Preclinical models of UTI have only recently allowed investigation of sex and sex-hormone effects on pathogenesis. We previously demonstrated that renal scarring after experimental UPEC pyelonephritis is augmented by androgen exposure; testosterone exposure increases both the severity of pyelonephritis and the degree of renal scarring in both male and female mice. Activin A is an important driver of scarring in non-infectious renal injury, as well as a mediator of macrophage polarization. In this work, we investigated how androgen exposure influences immune cell recruitment to the UPEC-infected kidney and how cell-specific activin A production affects post-pyelonephritic scar formation. Compared with vehicle-treated females, androgenized mice exhibited reduced bacterial clearance from the kidney, despite robust myeloid cell recruitment that continued to increase as infection progressed. Infected kidneys from androgenized mice harbored more alternatively activated (M2) macrophages than vehicle-treated mice, reflecting an earlier shift from a pro-inflammatory (M1) phenotype. Androgen exposure also led to a sharp increase in activin A-producing myeloid cells in the infected kidney, as well as decreased levels of follistatin (which normally antagonizes activin action). As a result, infection in androgenized mice featured prolonged polarization of macrophages toward a pro-fibrotic M2a phenotype, accompanied by an increase in M2a-associated cytokines. These data indicate that androgen enhancement of UTI severity and resulting scar formation is related to augmented local activin A production and corresponding promotion of M2a macrophage polarization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teri N Hreha
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Christina A Collins
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Allyssa L Daugherty
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Jessie M Griffith
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Keith A Hruska
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States.,Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - David A Hunstad
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States.,Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
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Appiah Adu-Gyamfi E, Tanam Djankpa F, Nelson W, Czika A, Kumar Sah S, Lamptey J, Ding YB, Wang YX. Activin and inhibin signaling: From regulation of physiology to involvement in the pathology of the female reproductive system. Cytokine 2020; 133:155105. [PMID: 32438278 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2020.155105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Activins and inhibins - comprising activin A, B, AB, C and E, and inhibin A and B isoforms - belong to the transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) superfamily. They regulate several biological processes, including cellular proliferation, differentiation and invasiveness, to enhance the formation and functioning of many human tissues and organs. In this review, we have discussed the role of activin and inhibin signaling in the physiological and female-specific pathological events that occur in the female reproductive system. The up-to-date evidence indicates that these cytokines regulate germ cell development, follicular development, ovulation, uterine receptivity, decidualization and placentation through the activation of several signaling pathways; and that their dysregulated expression is involved in the pathogenesis and pathophysiology of the numerous diseases, including pregnancy complications, that disturb reproduction. Hence, some of the isoforms have been suggested as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for the management of some of these diseases. Tackling the research directions highlighted in this review will enhance a detailed comprehension and the clinical utility of these cytokines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enoch Appiah Adu-Gyamfi
- Department of Reproductive Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China.
| | - Francis Tanam Djankpa
- Department of Physiology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana.
| | - William Nelson
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China; Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, School of Public Health and Social Sciences, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es salaam, Tanzania.
| | - Armin Czika
- Department of Reproductive Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China.
| | - Sanjay Kumar Sah
- Department of Reproductive Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China.
| | - Jones Lamptey
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China; Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research in Tropical Medicine, KCCR, Ghana.
| | - Yu-Bin Ding
- Department of Reproductive Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China.
| | - Ying-Xiong Wang
- Department of Reproductive Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China.
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Ragni E, Perucca Orfei C, De Luca P, Mondadori C, Viganò M, Colombini A, de Girolamo L. Inflammatory priming enhances mesenchymal stromal cell secretome potential as a clinical product for regenerative medicine approaches through secreted factors and EV-miRNAs: the example of joint disease. Stem Cell Res Ther 2020; 11:165. [PMID: 32345351 PMCID: PMC7189600 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-020-01677-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Revised: 03/23/2020] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC)-enriched products showed positive clinical outcomes in regenerative medicine, where tissue restoration and inflammation control are needed. GMP-expanded MSCs displayed an even higher potential due to exclusive secretion of therapeutic factors, both free and conveyed within extracellular vesicles (EVs), collectively termed secretome. Moreover, priming with biochemical cues may influence the portfolio and biological activities of MSC-derived factors. For these reasons, the use of naive or primed secretome gained attention as a cell-free therapeutic option. Albeit, at present, a homogenous and comprehensive secretome fingerprint is still missing. Therefore, the aim of this work was to deeply characterize adipose-derived MSC (ASC)-secreted factors and EV-miRNAs, and their modulation after IFNγ preconditioning. The crucial influence of the target pathology or cell type was also scored in osteoarthritis to evaluate disease-driven potency. Methods ASCs were isolated from four donors and cultured with and without IFNγ. Two-hundred secreted factors were assayed by ELISA. ASC-EVs were isolated by ultracentrifugation and validated by flow cytometry, transmission electron microscopy, and nanoparticle tracking analysis. miRNome was deciphered by high-throughput screening. Bioinformatics was used to predict the modulatory effect of secreted molecules on pathologic cartilage and synovial macrophages based on public datasets. Models of inflammation for both macrophages and chondrocytes were used to test by flow cytometry the secretome anti-inflammatory potency. Results Data showed that more than 60 cytokines/chemokines could be identified at varying levels of intensity in all samples. The vast majority of factors are involved in extracellular matrix remodeling, and chemotaxis or motility of inflammatory cells. IFNγ is able to further increase the capacity of the secretome to stimulate cell migration signals. Moreover, more than 240 miRNAs were found in ASC-EVs. Sixty miRNAs accounted for > 95% of the genetic message that resulted to be chondro-protective and M2 macrophage polarizing. Inflammation tipped the balance towards a more pronounced tissue regenerative and anti-inflammatory phenotype. In silico data were confirmed on inflamed macrophages and chondrocytes, with secretome being able to increase M2 phenotype marker CD163 and reduce the chondrocyte inflammation marker VCAM1, respectively. IFNγ priming further enhanced secretome anti-inflammatory potency. Conclusions Given the portfolio of soluble factors and EV-miRNAs, ASC secretome showed a marked capacity to stimulate cell motility and modulate inflammatory and degenerative processes. Preconditioning is able to increase this ability, suggesting inflammatory priming as an effective strategy to obtain a more potent clinical product which use should always be driven by the molecular mark of the target pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrico Ragni
- IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Galeazzi, Laboratorio di Biotecnologie Applicate all'Ortopedia, Via R. Galeazzi 4, Milan, 20161, Italy
| | - Carlotta Perucca Orfei
- IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Galeazzi, Laboratorio di Biotecnologie Applicate all'Ortopedia, Via R. Galeazzi 4, Milan, 20161, Italy.
| | - Paola De Luca
- IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Galeazzi, Laboratorio di Biotecnologie Applicate all'Ortopedia, Via R. Galeazzi 4, Milan, 20161, Italy
| | - Carlotta Mondadori
- IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Galeazzi, Cell and Tissue Engineering Laboratory, Via R. Galeazzi 4, Milan, 20161, Italy
| | - Marco Viganò
- IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Galeazzi, Laboratorio di Biotecnologie Applicate all'Ortopedia, Via R. Galeazzi 4, Milan, 20161, Italy
| | - Alessandra Colombini
- IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Galeazzi, Laboratorio di Biotecnologie Applicate all'Ortopedia, Via R. Galeazzi 4, Milan, 20161, Italy
| | - Laura de Girolamo
- IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Galeazzi, Laboratorio di Biotecnologie Applicate all'Ortopedia, Via R. Galeazzi 4, Milan, 20161, Italy
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Activin-A in the regulation of immunity in health and disease. J Autoimmun 2019; 104:102314. [PMID: 31416681 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2019.102314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2019] [Accepted: 07/28/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The TGF-β superfamily of cytokines plays pivotal roles in the regulation of immune responses protecting against or contributing to diseases, such as, allergy, autoimmunity and cancer. Activin-A, a member of the TGF-β superfamily, was initially identified as an inducer of follicle-stimulating hormone secretion. Extensive research over the past decades illuminated fundamental roles for activin-A in essential biologic processes, including embryonic development, stem cell maintenance and differentiation, haematopoiesis, cell proliferation and tissue fibrosis. Activin-A signals through two type I and two type II receptors which, upon ligand binding, activate their kinase activity, phosphorylate the SMAD2 and 3 intracellular signaling mediators that form a complex with SMAD4, translocate to the nucleus and activate or silence gene expression. Most immune cell types, including macrophages, dendritic cells (DCs), T and B lymphocytes and natural killer cells have the capacity to produce and respond to activin-A, although not in a similar manner. In innate immune cells, including macrophages, DCs and neutrophils, activin-A exerts a broad range of pro- or anti-inflammatory functions depending on the cell maturation and activation status and the spatiotemporal context. Activin-A also controls the differentiation and effector functions of Th cell subsets, including Th9 cells, TFH cells, Tr1 Treg cells and Foxp3+ Treg cells. Moreover, activin-A affects B cell responses, enhancing mucosal IgA secretion and inhibiting pathogenic autoantibody production. Interestingly, an array of preclinical and clinical studies has highlighted crucial functions of activin-A in the initiation, propagation and resolution of human diseases, including autoimmune diseases, such as, systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis and pulmonary alveolar proteinosis, in allergic disorders, including allergic asthma and atopic dermatitis, in cancer and in microbial infections. Here, we provide an overview of the biology of activin-A and its signaling pathways, summarize recent studies pertinent to the role of activin-A in the modulation of inflammation and immunity, and discuss the potential of targeting activin-A as a novel therapeutic approach for the control of inflammatory diseases.
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Diller M, Frommer K, Dankbar B, Tarner I, Hülser ML, Tsiklauri L, Hasseli R, Sauerbier M, Pap T, Rehart S, Müller-Ladner U, Neumann E. The activin-follistatin anti-inflammatory cycle is deregulated in synovial fibroblasts. Arthritis Res Ther 2019; 21:144. [PMID: 31182152 PMCID: PMC6558802 DOI: 10.1186/s13075-019-1926-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2019] [Accepted: 05/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Activin A and follistatin exhibit immunomodulatory functions, thus affecting autoinflammatory processes as found in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The impact of both proteins on the behavior of synovial fibroblasts (SF) in RA as well as in osteoarthritis (OA) is unknown. Methods Immunohistochemical analyses of synovial tissue for expression of activin A and follistatin were performed. The influence of RASF overexpressing activin A on cartilage invasion in a SCID mouse model was examined. RASF and OASF were stimulated with either IL-1β or TNFα in combination with or solely with activin A, activin AB, or follistatin. Protein secretion was measured by ELISA and mRNA expression by RT-PCR. Smad signaling was confirmed by western blot. Results In human RA synovial tissue, the number of activin A-positive cells as well as its extracellular presence was higher than in the OA synovium. Single cells within the tissue expressed follistatin in RA and OA synovial tissue. In the SCID mouse model, activin A overexpression reduced RASF invasion. In human RASF, activin A was induced by IL-1β and TNFα. Activin A slightly increased IL-6 release by unstimulated RASF, but decreased protein and mRNA levels of follistatin. Conclusion The observed decrease of cartilage invasion by RASF overexpressing activin A in the SCID mouse model appears to be mediated by an interaction between activin/follistatin and other local cells indirectly affecting RASF because activin A displayed certain pro-inflammatory effects on RASF. Activin A even inhibits production and release of follistatin in RASF and therefore prevents itself from being blocked by its inhibitory binding protein follistatin in the local inflammatory joint environment. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13075-019-1926-7) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magnus Diller
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Campus Kerckhoff, Bad Nauheim, Benekestr: 2-8, 61231, Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - Klaus Frommer
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Campus Kerckhoff, Bad Nauheim, Benekestr: 2-8, 61231, Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - Berno Dankbar
- Institute of Experimental Musculoskeletal Medicine, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Ingo Tarner
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Campus Kerckhoff, Bad Nauheim, Benekestr: 2-8, 61231, Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - Marie-Lisa Hülser
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Campus Kerckhoff, Bad Nauheim, Benekestr: 2-8, 61231, Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - Lali Tsiklauri
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Campus Kerckhoff, Bad Nauheim, Benekestr: 2-8, 61231, Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - Rebecca Hasseli
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Campus Kerckhoff, Bad Nauheim, Benekestr: 2-8, 61231, Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - Michael Sauerbier
- Department of Plastic, Hand and Reconstructive Surgery, BGU Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Thomas Pap
- Institute of Experimental Musculoskeletal Medicine, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Stefan Rehart
- Department of Orthopaedics and Trauma Surgery, Agaplesion Markus Hospital, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Ulf Müller-Ladner
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Campus Kerckhoff, Bad Nauheim, Benekestr: 2-8, 61231, Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - Elena Neumann
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Campus Kerckhoff, Bad Nauheim, Benekestr: 2-8, 61231, Bad Nauheim, Germany.
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Seachrist DD, Keri RA. The Activin Social Network: Activin, Inhibin, and Follistatin in Breast Development and Cancer. Endocrinology 2019; 160:1097-1110. [PMID: 30874767 PMCID: PMC6475112 DOI: 10.1210/en.2019-00015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2019] [Accepted: 03/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Activins and inhibins are closely related protein heterodimers with a similar tissue distribution; however, these two complexes have opposing functions in development and disease. Both are secreted cytokine hormones, with activin the primary inducer of downstream signaling cascades and inhibin acting as a rheostat that exquisitely governs activin function. Adding to the complexity of activin signaling, follistatin, a highly glycosylated monomeric protein, binds activin with high affinity and restrains downstream pathway activation but through a mechanism distinct from that of inhibin. These three proteins were first identified as key ovarian hormones in the pituitary-gonadal axis that direct the synthesis and secretion of FSH from the pituitary, hence controlling folliculogenesis. Research during the past 30 years has expanded the roles of these proteins, first by discovering the ubiquitous expression of the trio and then by implicating them in a wide array of biological functions. In concert, these three hormones govern tissue development, homeostasis, and disease in multiple organ systems through diverse autocrine and paracrine mechanisms. In the present study, we have reviewed the actions of activin and its biological inhibitors, inhibin, and follistatin, in mammary gland morphogenesis and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darcie D Seachrist
- Department of Pharmacology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Ruth A Keri
- Department of Pharmacology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio
- Division of General Medical Sciences–Oncology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio
- Correspondence: Ruth A. Keri, PhD, Department of Pharmacology, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, 10900 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44106. E-mail:
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11
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Diesselberg C, Ribes S, Seele J, Kaufmann A, Redlich S, Bunkowski S, Hanisch UK, Michel U, Nau R, Schütze S. Activin A increases phagocytosis of Escherichia coli K1 by primary murine microglial cells activated by toll-like receptor agonists. J Neuroinflammation 2018; 15:175. [PMID: 29880000 PMCID: PMC5992782 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-018-1209-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2018] [Accepted: 05/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Bacterial meningitis is associated with high mortality and long-term neurological sequelae. Increasing the phagocytic activity of microglia could improve the resistance of the CNS against infections. We studied the influence of activin A, a member of the TGF-β family with known immunoregulatory and neuroprotective effects, on the functions of microglial cells in vitro. Methods Primary murine microglial cells were treated with activin A (0.13 ng/ml–13 μg/ml) alone or in combination with agonists of TLR2, 4, and 9. Phagocytosis of Escherichia coli K1 as well as release of TNF-α, IL-6, CXCL1, and NO was assessed. Results Activin A dose-dependently enhanced the phagocytosis of Escherichia coli K1 by microglial cells activated by agonists of TLR2, 4, and 9 without further increasing NO and proinflammatory cytokine release. Cell viability of microglial cells was not affected by activin A. Conclusions Priming of microglial cells with activin A could increase the elimination of bacteria in bacterial CNS infections. This preventive strategy could improve the resistance of the brain to infections, particularly in elderly and immunocompromised patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catharina Diesselberg
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Robert-Koch-Str. 40, 37075, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Sandra Ribes
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Robert-Koch-Str. 40, 37075, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Jana Seele
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Robert-Koch-Str. 40, 37075, Göttingen, Germany.,Department of Geriatrics, Evangelisches Krankenhaus Göttingen-Weende, An der Lutter 24, 37075, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Annika Kaufmann
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Robert-Koch-Str. 40, 37075, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Sandra Redlich
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Robert-Koch-Str. 40, 37075, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Stephanie Bunkowski
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Robert-Koch-Str. 40, 37075, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Uwe-Karsten Hanisch
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Robert-Koch-Str. 40, 37075, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Uwe Michel
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Robert-Koch-Str. 40, 37075, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Roland Nau
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Robert-Koch-Str. 40, 37075, Göttingen, Germany.,Department of Geriatrics, Evangelisches Krankenhaus Göttingen-Weende, An der Lutter 24, 37075, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Sandra Schütze
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Robert-Koch-Str. 40, 37075, Göttingen, Germany. .,Department of Geriatrics, AGAPLESION Frankfurter Diakonie Kliniken, Wilhelm-Epstein-Str. 4, 60431, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
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12
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Omar NN, Rashed RR, El-Hazek RM, El-Sabbagh WA, Rashed ER, El-Ghazaly MA. Platelet-rich plasma-induced feedback inhibition of activin A/follistatin signaling: A mechanism for tumor-low risk skin rejuvenation in irradiated rats. JOURNAL OF PHOTOCHEMISTRY AND PHOTOBIOLOGY B-BIOLOGY 2018; 180:17-24. [PMID: 29413698 DOI: 10.1016/j.jphotobiol.2018.01.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2017] [Revised: 01/17/2018] [Accepted: 01/22/2018] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a source of natural growth factors and is emerging as a treatment modality to mitigate radiotherapy- induced adverse effects. Activin A (ACTA) is a member of the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) superfamily, which has been shown to modulate the inflammatory response and macrophages polarization between different phenotypes. The aim of this study is to determine the value of PRP in preventing radiation-induced malignancies in light of the cross-talk between PRP and activin A type II receptors (ActR-IIA)/follistatin (FST) signaling pathways where the inflammatory responses at 2 different time points were evaluated. MATERIAL AND METHODS Male albino rats were exposed to radiation and given PRP over the course of 6 days. Rats were sacrificed on day 7 or day 28 post radiation. RESULTS Quantitative real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (QRT-PCR) and western-blot showed that after 7 days of administrating of PRP, ActR-IIA/FST signaling was markedly induced and was associated with the expressions of inflammatory, natural killer and M1 macrophages markers, TNF-α, IL-1β, IFN-γ and IL-12. By contrast, on day 28 of PRP administration, ActR-IIA/FST signaling and the expressions of proinflammatory cytokines were downregulated in parallel with inducing M2 macrophages phenotype as indicated by arginase-1, IL-10 and dectin-1. CONCLUSION The suppression of inflammation and induction of M2 macrophages phenotype in response to PRP administration were found significantly linked to ActR-IIA/FST signaling downregulation. Furthermore, the specific M2 macrophage subtype was found to express dectin-1 receptors which have high affinity for tumor cells thereby is expected to reduce the potential for developing tumors after radiotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nesreen Nabil Omar
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Modern University for Technology and Information, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Rasha R Rashed
- Department of Drug Radiation Research, National Centre for Radiation Research and Technology, Atomic Energy Authority, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Rania M El-Hazek
- Department of Drug Radiation Research, National Centre for Radiation Research and Technology, Atomic Energy Authority, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Walaa A El-Sabbagh
- Department of Drug Radiation Research, National Centre for Radiation Research and Technology, Atomic Energy Authority, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Engy R Rashed
- Department of Drug Radiation Research, National Centre for Radiation Research and Technology, Atomic Energy Authority, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Mona A El-Ghazaly
- Department of Drug Radiation Research, National Centre for Radiation Research and Technology, Atomic Energy Authority, Cairo, Egypt
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13
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Hu J, Wang X, Tang YH, Shan YG, Zou Q, Wang ZQ, Huang CX. Activin A inhibition attenuates sympathetic neural remodeling following myocardial infarction in rats. Mol Med Rep 2018; 17:5074-5080. [PMID: 29393433 PMCID: PMC5865969 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2018.8496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2016] [Accepted: 04/24/2017] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Inflammation serves a critical role in driving sympathetic neural remodeling following myocardial infarction (MI), and activin A has been implicated as an important mediator of the inflammatory response post-MI. However, whether activin A impacts sympathetic neural remodeling post-MI remains unclear. In the present study, the authors assessed the effects of activin A on sympathetic neural remodeling in a rat model of MI. Rats were randomly divided into sham, MI, and MI + follistatin-300 (FS, activin A inhibitor) groups. Cardiac tissues from the peri-infarct zone were assessed for expression of sympathetic neural remodeling and inflammatory factors in rats 4 weeks post-MI by western blotting and immunohistochemical methods. Heart function was assessed by echocardiography. It is demonstrated that FS administration significantly reduced post-MI upregulation of activin A, nerve growth factor protein lever, and the density of nerve fibers with positive and protein expression of sympathetic neural remodeling markers in nerve fibers, which included growth associated protein 43 and tyrosine hydroxylase. In addition, inhibition of activin A reduced cardiac inflammation post-MI based on the reduction of i) interleukin-1 and tumor necrosis factor-α protein expression, ii) numbers and/or proportional area of infiltrating macrophages and myofibroblasts and iii) phosphorylated levels of p65 and IκBα. Furthermore, activin A inhibition lessened heart dysfunction post-MI. These results suggested that activin A inhibition reduced sympathetic neural remodeling post-MI in part through inhibition of the inflammatory response. The current study implicates activin A as a potential therapeutic target to circumvent sympathetic neural remodeling post-MI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Hu
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Xi Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Yan-Hong Tang
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Ying-Guang Shan
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Qiang Zou
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Zhi-Qiang Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Cong-Xin Huang
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
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Moisá SJ, Ji P, Drackley JK, Rodriguez-Zas SL, Loor JJ. Transcriptional changes in mesenteric and subcutaneous adipose tissue from Holstein cows in response to plane of dietary energy. J Anim Sci Biotechnol 2017; 8:85. [PMID: 29214018 PMCID: PMC5713657 DOI: 10.1186/s40104-017-0215-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2017] [Accepted: 10/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Dairy cows can readily overconsume dietary energy during most of the prepartum period, often leading to higher prepartal concentrations of insulin and glucose and excessive body fat deposition. The end result of these physiologic changes is greater adipose tissue lipolysis post-partum coupled with excessive hepatic lipid accumulation and compromised health. Although transcriptional regulation of the adipose response to energy availability is well established in non-ruminants, such regulation in cow adipose tissue depots remains poorly characterized. Results Effects of ad-libitum access to high [HIGH; 1.62 Mcal/kg of dry matter (DM)] or adequate (CON; 1.35 Mcal/kg of DM) dietary energy for 8 wk on mesenteric (MAT) and subcutaneous (SAT) adipose tissue transcript profiles were assessed in non-pregnant non-lactating Holstein dairy cows using a 13,000-sequence annotated bovine oligonucleotide microarray. Statistical analysis revealed 409 and 310 differentially expressed genes (DEG) due to tissue and diet. Bioinformatics analysis was conducted using the Dynamic Impact Approach (DIA) with the KEGG pathway database. Compared with SAT, MAT had more active biological processes related to adipose tissue accumulation (adiponectin secretion) and signs of pro-inflammatory processes due to adipose tissue expansion and macrophage infiltration (generation of ceramides). Feeding the HIGH diet led to changes in mRNA expression of genes associated with cell hypertrophy (regucalcin), activation of adipogenesis (phospholipid phosphatase 1), insulin signaling activation (neuraminidase 1) and angiogenesis (semaphorin 4G, plexin B1). Further, inflammation due to HIGH was underscored by mRNA expression changes associated with oxidative stress response (coenzyme Q3, methyltransferase), ceramide synthesis (N-acylsphingosine amidohydrolase 1), and insulin signaling (interferon regulatory factor 1, phosphoinositide-3-kinase regulatory subunit 1, retinoic acid receptor alpha). Activation of ribosome in cows fed HIGH indicated the existence of greater adipocyte growth rate (M-phase phosphoprotein 10, NMD3 ribosome export adaptor). Conclusions The data indicate that long-term ad-libitum access to a higher-energy diet led to transcriptional changes in adipose tissue that stimulated hypertrophy and the activity of pathways associated with a slight but chronic inflammatory response. Further studies would be helpful in determining the extent to which mRNA results also occur at the protein level.
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Affiliation(s)
- S J Moisá
- Department of Animal Sciences, Auburn University, 231 Upchurch Hall, 361 Mell Street, Auburn, AL 36849-5426 USA
| | - P Ji
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois, Urbana, 61801 USA
| | - J K Drackley
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois, Urbana, 61801 USA
| | - S L Rodriguez-Zas
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois, Urbana, 61801 USA
| | - J J Loor
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois, Urbana, 61801 USA
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15
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Kadiombo AT, Maeshima A, Kayakabe K, Ikeuchi H, Sakairi T, Kaneko Y, Hiromura K, Nojima Y. Involvement of infiltrating macrophage-derived activin A in the progression of renal damage in MRL-lpr mice. Am J Physiol Renal Physiol 2017; 312:F297-F304. [DOI: 10.1152/ajprenal.00191.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2016] [Revised: 11/15/2016] [Accepted: 11/20/2016] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Lupus nephritis is a life-threatening complication of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Various growth factors, cytokines, and chemokines are implicated in the development of SLE. However, the pathophysiological processes involved in the development of lupus nephritis still remain unclear. In this study, we examined the involvement of activin A, a member of the transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) superfamily, in the progression of renal damage in lupus-prone MRL- lpr mice. Activin A was not expressed in the kidneys of control MRL-MpJ mice but was detectable in perivascular infiltrating cluster of differentiation 68 (CD68)-positive cells in the kidneys of MRL- lpr mice. Urinary activin A, which was also absent in MRL-MpJ mice, was detectable in MRL- lpr mice from 16 wk onward. Urinary activin A levels were significantly correlated with the number of perivascular inflammatory cell layers, the number of crescentic glomeruli, and the percentage of Elastica van Gieson (EVG)-positive fibrotic areas, but not with urinary protein levels or serum activin A. When activin action was blocked in vivo by the intraperitoneal administration of an activin antagonist, follistatin, the number of crescentic glomeruli, percentage of EVG-positive fibrotic areas, CD68-positive cell infiltration, and proteinuria were significantly reduced in a dose-dependent manner. These data suggest that infiltrating macrophage-derived activin A is involved in the progression of renal damage in MRL- lpr mice.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Akito Maeshima
- Department of Medicine and Clinical Science, Gunma University, Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Ken Kayakabe
- Department of Medicine and Clinical Science, Gunma University, Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Hidekazu Ikeuchi
- Department of Medicine and Clinical Science, Gunma University, Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Toru Sakairi
- Department of Medicine and Clinical Science, Gunma University, Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Yoriaki Kaneko
- Department of Medicine and Clinical Science, Gunma University, Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Keiju Hiromura
- Department of Medicine and Clinical Science, Gunma University, Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Yoshihisa Nojima
- Department of Medicine and Clinical Science, Gunma University, Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Japan
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16
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Jung B, Staudacher JJ, Beauchamp D. Transforming Growth Factor β Superfamily Signaling in Development of Colorectal Cancer. Gastroenterology 2017; 152:36-52. [PMID: 27773809 PMCID: PMC5550896 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2016.10.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 170] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2016] [Revised: 09/29/2016] [Accepted: 10/11/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Transforming growth factor (TGF)-β cytokines signal via a complex network of pathways to regulate proliferation, differentiation, adhesion, migration, and other functions in many cell types. A high percentage of colorectal tumors contain mutations that disrupt TGF-β family member signaling. We review how TGF-β family member signaling is altered during development of colorectal cancer, models of study, interaction of pathways, and potential therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Jung
- University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois.
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17
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Olguín-Alor R, de la Fuente-Granada M, Bonifaz LC, Antonio-Herrera L, García-Zepeda EA, Soldevila G. A Key Role for Inhibins in Dendritic Cell Maturation and Function. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0167813. [PMID: 27936218 PMCID: PMC5147992 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0167813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2016] [Accepted: 11/21/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Inhibins are members of the TGFβ superfamily, which regulate many cellular processes including differentiation, proliferation, survival and apoptosis. Although initially described as hormones regulating the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal axis, based on their ability to antagonize Activins, our group has recently reported that they play a role in thymocyte differentiation and survival, as well as in thymic stromal cell maturation and nTreg generation. Here, we used Inhibin knock out mice (Inhα-/-) to investigate the role of Inhibins in peripheral dendritic cell maturation and function. We first demonstrated that LPS treated Inhα+/+ bone marrow derived dendritic cells (BMDC) were capable to produce significant levels of Inhibin A. Interestingly, Inhα-/- BMDC showed reduced MHCII and CD86 upregulation and increased PD-L1 expression in response to LPS compared to Inhα+/+, which correlated with reduced ability to induce proliferation of allogeneic T cells. The "semi-mature" phenotype displayed by Inhα-/- mBMDC correlated with increased levels of IL-10 and slightly decreased IL-6 production after LPS stimulation. In addition, Inhα-/- mBMDC showed impaired migration towards CCL19 and CCL21, assessed by in vitro chemotaxis and in vivo competitive homing experiments, despite their normal CCR7 expression. Furthermore, in vivo LPS-induced DC maturation was also diminished in Inhα-/- mice, specially within the LC (CD207+ CD11b+ CD103-) subpopulation. Finally, analysis of delayed type hypersensitivity responses in Inhα-/- mice, showed reduced ear swelling as a result of reduced cellular infiltration in the skin, correlating with impaired homing of CD207+ DCs to the draining lymph nodes. In summary, our data demonstrate for the first time that Inhibins play a key role in peripheral DC maturation and function, regulating the balance between immunity and tolerance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roxana Olguín-Alor
- Departamento de Inmunología. Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico city, Mexico
| | - Marisol de la Fuente-Granada
- Departamento de Inmunología. Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico city, Mexico
| | - Laura C. Bonifaz
- Unidad de Investigación Médica en Inmunoquímica. Centro Médico Nacional Siglo XXI, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Mexico city, Mexico
| | - Laura Antonio-Herrera
- Unidad de Investigación Médica en Inmunoquímica. Centro Médico Nacional Siglo XXI, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Mexico city, Mexico
| | - Eduardo A. García-Zepeda
- Departamento de Inmunología. Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico city, Mexico
| | - Gloria Soldevila
- Departamento de Inmunología. Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico city, Mexico
- * E-mail:
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Keelan JA, Zhou RL, Evans LW, Groome NP, Mitchell MD. Regulation of Activin A, Inhibin A, and Follistatin Production in Human Amnion and Choriodecidual Explants by Inflammatory Mediators. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.1177/107155760000700504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey A. Keelan
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Acukland Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Auckland, New Zealand; School of Biological Molecular Sciences, Oxford Brookes University, Headington, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | | | | | | | - Murray D. Mitchell
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Acukland Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Auckland, New Zealand; School of Biological Molecular Sciences, Oxford Brookes University, Headington, Oxford, United Kingdom
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Human fallopian tube proteome shows high coverage of mesenchymal stem cells associated proteins. Biosci Rep 2016; 36:e00297. [PMID: 26759384 PMCID: PMC4759609 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20150220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2015] [Accepted: 12/17/2015] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
We report the largest scale MS based proteome of human fallopian tube (hFT). Ribosome, cytoskeleton, and vesicle associated proteins showed high abundance in hFT. Extraordinary high coverage of MSCs associated proteins in the hFT proteome. The object of this research was to report a draft proteome of human fallopian tube (hFT) comprises 5416 identified proteins, which could be considered as a physiological reference to complement Human Proteome Draft. The proteomic raw data and metadata were stored in an integrated proteome resources centre iProX (IPX00034300). This hFT proteome contains many hFT markers newly identified by mass spectrum. This hFT proteome comprises 660 high-, 3605 medium- and 1181 low-abundant proteins. Ribosome, cytoskeleton, vesicle and protein folding associated proteins showed obvious tendency to be higher abundance in hFT. The extraordinary high coverage of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs)-associated proteins were identified in this hFT proteome, which highly supported that hFT should contain a plenty of MSCs.
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20
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Snell JN, Westall GP, Snell GI. The potential role of activin and follistatin in lung transplant dysfunction. Expert Rev Respir Med 2015; 9:697-701. [DOI: 10.1586/17476348.2015.1098537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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21
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Lim R, Muljadi R, Koulaeva E, Vosdoganes P, Chan ST, Acharya R, Gurusinghe S, Ritvos O, Pasternack A, Wallace EM. Activin A contributes to the development of hyperoxia-induced lung injury in neonatal mice. Pediatr Res 2015; 77:749-56. [PMID: 25760549 DOI: 10.1038/pr.2015.46] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2014] [Accepted: 11/22/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in babies born prematurely, yet there is no curative treatment. In recent years, a number of inhibitors against TGFβ signaling have been tested for their potential to prevent neonatal injury associated with hyperoxia, which is a contributing factor of BPD. In this study, we assessed the contribution of activin A-a member of the TGFβ superfamily-to the development of hyperoxia-induced lung injury in neonatal mice. METHODS We placed newborn C57Bl6 mouse pups in continuous hyperoxia (85% O2) to mimic many aspects of BPD including alveolar simplification and pulmonary inflammation. The pups were administered activin A receptor type IIB-Fc antagonist (ActRIIB-Fc) at 5 mg/kg or follistatin at 0.1 mg/kg on postnatal days 4, 7, 10, and 13. RESULTS Treatment with ActRIIB-Fc and follistatin protected against hyperoxia-induced growth retardation. ActRIIB-Fc also reduced pulmonary leukocyte infiltration, normalized tissue: airspace ratio and increased septal crest density. These findings were associated with reduced phosphorylation of Smad3 and decreased matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 activity. CONCLUSION This study suggests that activin A signaling may contribute to the pathology of bronchopulmonary dysplasia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Lim
- 1] The Ritchie Centre, MIMR-PHI Institute of Medical Research, Victoria, Australia [2] Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ruth Muljadi
- The Ritchie Centre, MIMR-PHI Institute of Medical Research, Victoria, Australia
| | - Eugenia Koulaeva
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Patricia Vosdoganes
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Siow Teng Chan
- The Ritchie Centre, MIMR-PHI Institute of Medical Research, Victoria, Australia
| | - Rutu Acharya
- The Ritchie Centre, MIMR-PHI Institute of Medical Research, Victoria, Australia
| | - Seshini Gurusinghe
- The Ritchie Centre, MIMR-PHI Institute of Medical Research, Victoria, Australia
| | - Olli Ritvos
- Department of Bacteriology and Immunology, Haartman Institute, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Arja Pasternack
- Department of Bacteriology and Immunology, Haartman Institute, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Euan M Wallace
- 1] The Ritchie Centre, MIMR-PHI Institute of Medical Research, Victoria, Australia [2] Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
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Inhibins tune the thymocyte selection process by regulating thymic stromal cell differentiation. J Immunol Res 2015; 2015:837859. [PMID: 25973437 PMCID: PMC4418002 DOI: 10.1155/2015/837859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2014] [Revised: 01/15/2015] [Accepted: 01/20/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Inhibins and Activins are members of the TGF-β superfamily that regulate the differentiation of several cell types. These ligands were initially identified as hormones that regulate the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal axis; however, increasing evidence has demonstrated that they are key regulators in the immune system. We have previously demonstrated that Inhibins are the main Activin ligands expressed in the murine thymus and that they regulate thymocyte differentiation, promoting the DN3-DN4 transition and the selection of SP thymocytes. As Inhibins are mainly produced by thymic stromal cells, which also express Activin receptors and Smad proteins, we hypothesized that Inhibins might play a role in stromal cell differentiation and function. Here, we demonstrate that, in the absence of Inhibins, thymic conventional dendritic cells display reduced levels of MHC Class II (MHCII) and CD86. In addition, the ratio between cTECs and mTECs was affected, indicating that mTEC differentiation was favoured and cTEC diminished in the absence of Inhibins. These changes appeared to impact thymocyte selection leading to a decreased selection of CD4SP thymocytes and increased generation of natural regulatory T cells. These findings demonstrate that Inhibins tune the T cell selection process by regulating both thymocyte and stromal cell differentiation.
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Refaat B. Role of activins in embryo implantation and diagnosis of ectopic pregnancy: a review. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2014; 12:116. [PMID: 25421645 PMCID: PMC4254208 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-12-116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2014] [Accepted: 11/17/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Embryo implantation is a major prerequisite for the successful establishment of pregnancy. Ectopic implantation outside the intrauterine cavity and the development of ectopic pregnancy (EP) is a major cause of maternal morbidity and occasionally mortality during the first trimester. EP may be induced by failure of tubal transport and/or increased tubal receptivity. Activins, their type II receptors and follistatin have been localised in the human endometrial and tubal epithelium and they are major regulators of endometrial and tubal physiology during the menstrual cycle. Pathological expression of activins and their binding protein, follistatin, was observed in tissue and serum samples collected from EP. Several studies with different designs investigated the diagnostic value of a single measurement of serum activin-A in the differentiation between normal intrauterine and failing early pregnancy and the results are controversial. Nevertheless, the diagnostic value of activins in EP, including the other activin isoforms (activin-B and -AB) and follistatin, merits further research. This review appraises the data to date researching the role of activins in the establishment of normal pregnancy and, pathogenesis and diagnosis of tubal EP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bassem Refaat
- Laboratory Medicine Department, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Umm Al-Qura University, Al Abdeyah, Makkah, PO Box 7607, Saudi Arabia.
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Activin-A exerts a crucial anti-inflammatory role in neonatal infections. Pediatr Res 2013; 74:675-81. [PMID: 24002335 DOI: 10.1038/pr.2013.159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2012] [Accepted: 04/24/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Activin-A is a cytokine with a critical role in infections and associated inflammation in experimental models and humans. Still, the effects of activin-A on neonatal infections remain elusive. Here, we investigated the expression of activin-A in the serum of septicemic preterm and term neonates and in peripheral blood leukocytes stimulated with inflammatory agents in vitro. The role of activin-A in the regulation of inflammatory responses by neonatal leukocytes was delineated. METHODS Peripheral blood was obtained from 37 septicemic neonates between the first and fifth days postinfection and from 35 healthy controls. Isolated monocytes and lymphocytes were stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or phytohemagglutinin (PHA) in vitro in the presence of activin-A. Cell proliferation, cytokine, and chemokine release were investigated. RESULTS Activin-A was significantly increased in the serum of preterm septicemic neonates. Neonatal leukocytes secreted copious amounts of activin-A following stimulation, pointing to these cells as an essential source of activin-A in the circulation. Of note, treatment of neonatal leukocytes with activin-A during PHA and LPS stimulation resulted in significantly decreased interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and CXCL8 production, concomitant with a striking increase in the anti-inflammatory mediator, IL-10. CONCLUSION Our findings uncover activin-A as a novel immunomodulatory agent critical for the control of inflammatory responses in septicemic neonates.
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Serum activin A and B levels predict outcome in patients with acute respiratory failure: a prospective cohort study. CRITICAL CARE : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE CRITICAL CARE FORUM 2013; 17:R263. [PMID: 24172607 PMCID: PMC4057391 DOI: 10.1186/cc13093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2013] [Accepted: 09/30/2013] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION 30 day mortality in patients with Acute Respiratory Failure (ARF) is approximately 30%, defined as patients requiring ventilator support for more than 6 hours. Novel biomarkers are needed to predict patient outcomes and to guide potential future therapies. The activins A and B, members of the Transforming Growth Factor β family of proteins, and their binding protein, follistatin, have recently been shown to be important regulators of inflammation and fibrosis but no substantial data are available concerning their roles in ARF. METHODS Specific assays for activin A, B and follistatin were used and the results analyzed according to diagnostic groups as well as according to standard measures in intensive care. Multivariable logistic regression was used to create a model to predict death at 90 days and 12 months from the onset of the ARF. RESULTS Serum activin A and B were significantly elevated in most patients and in most of the diagnostic groups. Patients who had activin A and/or B concentrations above the reference maximum were significantly more likely to die in the 12 months following admission [either activin A or B above reference maximum: Positive Likelihood Ratio [LR+] 1.65 [95% CI 1.28-2.12, P = 0.00013]; both activin A and B above reference maximum: LR + 2.78 [95% CI 1.96-3.95, P < 0.00001]. The predictive model at 12 months had an overall accuracy of 80.2% [95% CI 76.6-83.3%]. CONCLUSIONS The measurement of activin A and B levels in these patients with ARF would have assisted in predicting those at greatest risk of death. Given the existing data from animal studies linking high activin A levels to significant inflammatory challenges, the results from this study suggest that approaches to modulate activin A and B bioactivity should be explored as potential therapeutic agents.
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Activin A: A Potential Therapeutic Target for Characterizing and Stopping Joint Pain Early in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients. Inflammation 2013; 37:170-6. [DOI: 10.1007/s10753-013-9727-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
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Hedger MP, de Kretser DM. The activins and their binding protein, follistatin-Diagnostic and therapeutic targets in inflammatory disease and fibrosis. Cytokine Growth Factor Rev 2013; 24:285-95. [PMID: 23541927 DOI: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2013.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2013] [Accepted: 03/05/2013] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The activins, as members of the transforming growth factor-β superfamily, are pleiotrophic regulators of cell development and function, including cells of the myeloid and lymphoid lineages. Clinical and animal studies have shown that activin levels increase in both acute and chronic inflammation, and are frequently indicators of disease severity. Moreover, inhibition of activin action can reduce inflammation, damage, fibrosis and morbidity/mortality in various disease models. Consequently, activin A and, more recently, activin B are emerging as important diagnostic tools and therapeutic targets in inflammatory and fibrotic diseases. Activin antagonists such as follistatin, an endogenous activin-binding protein, offer considerable promise as therapies in conditions as diverse as sepsis, liver fibrosis, acute lung injury, asthma, wound healing and ischaemia-reperfusion injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- M P Hedger
- Monash Institute of Medical Research, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
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Activin, neutrophils, and inflammation: just coincidence? Semin Immunopathol 2013; 35:481-99. [PMID: 23385857 PMCID: PMC7101603 DOI: 10.1007/s00281-013-0365-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2012] [Accepted: 01/17/2013] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
During the 26 years that have elapsed since its discovery, activin-A, a member of the transforming growth factor β super-family originally discovered from its capacity to stimulate follicle-stimulating hormone production by cultured pituitary gonadotropes, has been established as a key regulator of various fundamental biological processes, such as development, homeostasis, inflammation, and tissue remodeling. Deregulated expression of activin-A has been observed in several human diseases characterized by an immuno-inflammatory and/or tissue remodeling component in their pathophysiology. Various cell types have been recognized as sources of activin-A, and plentiful, occasionally contradicting, functions have been described mainly by in vitro studies. Not surprisingly, both harmful and protective roles have been postulated for activin-A in the context of several disorders. Recent findings have further expanded the functional repertoire of this molecule demonstrating that its ectopic overexpression in mouse airways can cause pathology that simulates faithfully human acute respiratory distress syndrome, a disorder characterized by strong involvement of neutrophils. This finding when considered together with the recent discovery that neutrophils constitute an important source of activin-A in vivo and earlier observations of upregulated activin-A expression in diseases characterized by strong activation of neutrophils may collectively imply a more intimate link between activin-A expression and neutrophil reactivity. In this review, we provide an outline of the functional repertoire of activin-A and suggest that this growth factor functions as a guardian of homeostasis, a modulator of immunity and an orchestrator of tissue repair activities. In this context, a relationship between activin-A and neutrophils may be anything but coincidental.
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Lai J, Pinas A, Syngelaki A, Poon LCY, Nicolaides KH. Maternal serum activin-A at 30–33 weeks in the prediction of preeclampsia. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2013. [DOI: 10.3109/14767058.2012.755167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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30
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Antsiferova M, Werner S. The bright and the dark sides of activin in wound healing and cancer. J Cell Sci 2012; 125:3929-37. [PMID: 22991378 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.094789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Activin was initially described as a protein that stimulates release of follicle stimulating hormone from the pituitary, and it is well known for its important roles in different reproductive functions. In recent years, this multifunctional factor has attracted the attention of researchers in other fields, as new functions of activin in angiogenesis, inflammation, immunity, fibrosis and cancer have been discovered. Studies from our laboratory have identified activin as a crucial regulator of wound healing and skin carcinogenesis. On the one hand, it strongly accelerates the healing process of skin wounds but, on the other hand, it enhances scar formation and the susceptibility to skin tumorigenesis. Finally, results from several laboratories have revealed that activin enhances tumour formation and/or progression in some other organs, in particular through its effect on the tumour microenvironment, and that it also promotes cancer-induced bone disruption and muscle wasting. These findings provide the basis for the use of activin or its downstream targets for the improvement of impaired wound healing, and of activin antagonists for the prevention and treatment of fibrosis and of malignant tumours that overexpress activin. Here, we summarize the previously described roles of activin in wound healing and scar formation and discuss functional studies that revealed different functions of activin in the pathogenesis of cancer. The relevance of these findings for clinical applications will be highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Antsiferova
- Department of Biology, Institute of Molecular Health Sciences, ETH Honggerberg, HPL E12, 8093, Zurich, Switzerland.
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Hedger MP, Winnall WR. Regulation of activin and inhibin in the adult testis and the evidence for functional roles in spermatogenesis and immunoregulation. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2012; 359:30-42. [PMID: 21964464 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2011.09.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2011] [Revised: 09/16/2011] [Accepted: 09/16/2011] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Activin A provides a unique link between reproduction and immunity, which is especially significant in the adult testis. This cytokine, together with inhibin B and follistatin acting as regulators of activin A activity, is fundamentally involved in the regulation of spermatogenesis and testicular steroidogenesis. However, activin A also has a much broader role in control of inflammation, fibrosis and immunity. In the Sertoli cell, activin A is regulated by signalling pathways that normally regulate stress and inflammation, signalling pathways that intersect with the classical hormonal regulatory pathways mediated by FSH. Modulation of activin A production and activity during spermatogenesis is implicated in the fine control of the cycle of the seminiferous epithelium. The immunoregulatory properties of activin A also suggest that it may be involved in maintaining testicular immune privilege. Consequently, elevated activin A production within the testis during inflammation and infection may contribute to spermatogenic failure, fibrosis and testicular damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark P Hedger
- Monash Institute of Medical Research, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
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de Kretser DM, O'Hehir RE, Hardy CL, Hedger MP. The roles of activin A and its binding protein, follistatin, in inflammation and tissue repair. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2012; 359:101-6. [PMID: 22037168 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2011.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 126] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2011] [Revised: 10/06/2011] [Accepted: 10/13/2011] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Activin A, a member of the transforming growth factor-β superfamily of cytokines, is a critical controller of inflammation, immunity and fibrosis. It is rapidly released into the blood following a lipopolysaccharide challenge in experimental animals, through activation of the Toll-like receptor 4 signalling pathway. Blocking activin action by pre-treatment with its binding protein, follistatin, modifies the inflammatory cytokine cascade, and reduces the severity of the subsequent inflammatory response and mortality. Likewise, high serum levels of activin A are predictive of death in patients with septicaemia. However, activin A has complex immunomodulatory actions. It is produced by inflammatory macrophages, but can regulate either pro- or anti-inflammatory responses in these cells, depending on their prior activation status. Activin A is also produced by Th2 cells, and stimulates antibody production by B cells and the development of regulatory T cells. Production of activin A during inflammatory responses stimulates fibrosis and tissue remodelling, and follistatin inhibits these actions of activin A. The modulation of activin by follistatin may represent an important therapeutic target for the modulation and amelioration of inflammatory and fibrotic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- David M de Kretser
- Monash Institute of Medical Research and the Department of Immunology and Pathology, Monash University, Clayton Victoria 3800, Australia.
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Wu H, Chen Y, Winnall WR, Phillips DJ, Hedger MP. Acute regulation of activin A and its binding protein, follistatin, in serum and tissues following lipopolysaccharide treatment of adult male mice. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2012; 303:R665-75. [PMID: 22855279 DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00478.2011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Activin A, a member of the transforming growth factor-β family, increases in the circulation within 1 h after administration of bacterial LPS. To clarify the origins of this rapid increase, the distribution of activin A and its binding protein, follistatin, and their production following LPS treatment, were assessed in adult male mice. In untreated mice, activin A was detectable in all 23 tissues examined, with highest mRNA expression (as measured by quantitative RT-PCR) was found in the liver, and the largest concentration of activin A protein (by ELISA) was found in the bone marrow. Likewise, follistatin mRNA and protein were present in all tissues, with highest expression in the vas deferens. Activin A and follistatin mRNA did not increase significantly in any tissue within the first hour after LPS, but activin A protein decreased by 35% in the bone marrow and increased 5-fold in the lung. No significant changes were observed in any other tissue. Activin A reached a peak in the circulation 1 h following LPS, and then declined. Cycloheximide, an inhibitor of protein translation, reduced this increase of activin A by more than 50%. Actinomycin D, an inhibitor of mRNA transcription, had no effect. Circulating follistatin did not increase until 4 h after LPS and was not affected by either inhibitor. These data indicate that the rapid increase in circulating activin A during LPS-induced inflammation is regulated at the posttranscriptional level, apparently from newly translated and stored protein, and implicate bone marrow-derived cells, and, in particular, neutrophils, as a significant source of this preformed activin A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Wu
- Monash Institute of Medical Research, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
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Apostolou E, Stavropoulos A, Sountoulidis A, Xirakia C, Giaglis S, Protopapadakis E, Ritis K, Mentzelopoulos S, Pasternack A, Foster M, Ritvos O, Tzelepis GE, Andreakos E, Sideras P. Activin-A Overexpression in the Murine Lung Causes Pathology That Simulates Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2012; 185:382-91. [DOI: 10.1164/rccm.201105-0784oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
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35
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Hedger MP, Winnall WR, Phillips DJ, de Kretser DM. The regulation and functions of activin and follistatin in inflammation and immunity. VITAMINS AND HORMONES 2011; 85:255-97. [PMID: 21353885 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-385961-7.00013-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 124] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The activins are members of the transforming growth factor β superfamily with broad and complex effects on cell growth and differentiation. Activin A has long been known to be a critical regulator of inflammation and immunity, and similar roles are now emerging for activin B, with which it shares 65% sequence homology. These molecules and their binding protein, follistatin, are widely expressed, and their production is increased in many acute and chronic inflammatory conditions. Synthesis and release of the activins are stimulated by inflammatory cytokines, Toll-like receptor ligands, and oxidative stress. The activins interact with heterodimeric serine/threonine kinase receptor complexes to activate SMAD transcription factors and the MAP kinase signaling pathways, which mediate inflammation, stress, and immunity. Follistatin binds to the activins with high affinity, thereby obstructing the activin receptor binding site, and targets them to cell surface proteoglycans and lysosomal degradation. Studies on transgenic mice and those with gene knockouts, together with blocking studies using exogenous follistatin, have established that activin A plays critical roles in the onset of cachexia, acute and chronic inflammatory responses such as septicemia, colitis and asthma, and fibrosis. However, activin A also directs the development of monocyte/macrophages, myeloid dendritic cells, and T cell subsets to promote type 2 and regulatory immune responses. The ability of both endogenous and exogenous follistatin to block the proinflammatory and profibrotic actions of activin A has led to interest in this binding protein as a potential therapeutic for limiting the severity of disease and to improve subsequent damage associated with inflammation and fibrosis. However, the ability of activin A to sculpt the subsequent immune response as well means that the full range of effects that might arise from blocking activin bioactivity will need to be considered in any therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark P Hedger
- Monash Institute of Medical Research, Monash University, Monash Medical Centre, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
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Kariyawasam HH, Semitekolou M, Robinson DS, Xanthou G. Activin-A: a novel critical regulator of allergic asthma. Clin Exp Allergy 2011; 41:1505-14. [PMID: 21631612 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2222.2011.03784.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Activin-A is a pleiotropic cytokine that belongs to the TGF-β superfamily and plays an important role in fundamental biological processes, such as development and tissue repair. Growing evidence proposes a crucial role for activin-A in immune-mediated responses and associated diseases, with both enhancing and suppressive effects depending on the cell type, the cytokine micromilieu and the context of the response. Several recent studies have demonstrated a striking increase in activin-A expression in experimental models of asthma, as well as, in the asthmatic airway in humans. Importantly, a strong immunoregulatory role for activin-A in allergic airway disease, with suppression of T helper (Th) type 2 cell-driven allergic responses and protection against the development of cardinal features of the asthmatic phenotype was revealed by in vivo functional studies. Activin-A-mediated immunosuppression is associated with induction of functional allergen-specific regulatory T cells. In human asthma, although activin-A levels are increased in the airway epithelium and submucosal cells, the expression of its signalling components is markedly decreased, pointing to decreased regulation. Nevertheless, a rapid activation of the activin-A signalling pathway is observed in the airway of individuals with asthma following inhalational allergen challenge, suggestive of an inherent protective mechanism to control disease. In support, in vitro studies using human airway epithelial cells have demonstrated that endogenous activin-A suppresses the release of inflammatory mediators, while it induces epithelial repair. Collectively, compelling evidence suggests that activin-A orchestrates the regulation of key events involved in the pathogenesis of allergic asthma. The critical role of activin-A in allergic airway responses places this cytokine as an exciting new therapeutic target for asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- H H Kariyawasam
- Department of Allergy and Medical Rhinology, Royal National Throat Nose Ear Hospital, University College, London
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When versatility matters: activins/inhibins as key regulators of immunity. Immunol Cell Biol 2011; 90:137-48. [DOI: 10.1038/icb.2011.32] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Takagi K, Kawaguchi Y, Kawamoto M, Ota Y, Tochimoto A, Gono T, Katsumata Y, Takagi M, Hara M, Yamanaka H. Activation of the activin A-ALK-Smad pathway in systemic sclerosis. J Autoimmun 2011; 36:181-8. [PMID: 21377836 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2010.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2010] [Revised: 09/13/2010] [Accepted: 09/14/2010] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a chronic disease of unknown etiology that is characterized by multiple tissue fibrosis. Transforming Growth Factor-beta (TGF-β) is thought to be the most important mediator that induces fibrosis. However, the molecular mechanisms by which fibrosis is induced have not been fully elucidated. In this study, the role of activin, a member of the TGF-β superfamily, was investigated in the pathogenesis of fibrosis in SSc. Serum activin A levels in patients with SSc were measured by ELISA, and the expression of the activin receptor type IB (ACVRIB/ALK4) and the activity of the signaling pathway via ACVRIB/ALK4 were investigated using western blotting. To evaluate a potential therapeutic strategy for SSc, we also attenuated the ACVRIB/ALK4 pathway using an inhibitor. Serum activin A levels were significantly higher in SSc patients than in normal controls. Activin A and ACVRIB/ALK4 expression were also higher in cultured SSc fibroblasts. Activin A stimulation induced phosphorylation of Smad2/3 and CTGF expression in SSc fibroblasts. Procollagen production and Col1α mRNA also increased upon stimulation by activin A. The basal level of Smad2/3 phosphorylation was higher in cultured SSc fibroblasts than in control cells, and treatment with the ALK4/5 inhibitor SB431542 prevented phosphorylation of Smad2/3 and CTGF expression. Furthermore, production of collagen was also induced by activin A. Activin A-ACVRIB/ALK4-Smad-dependent collagen production was augmented in SSc fibroblasts, suggesting the involvement of this signaling mechanism in SSc. Inhibition of the activin A-ACVRIB/ALK4-Smad pathway would be a new approach for the treatment of SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kae Takagi
- Institute of Rheumatology, Tokyo Women's Medical University, 10-22 Kawada-cho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-0054, Japan
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Ebert S, Nau R, Michel U. Role of activin in bacterial infections: a potential target for immunointervention? Immunotherapy 2010; 2:673-84. [DOI: 10.2217/imt.10.64] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Severe bacterial infections such as sepsis and meningitis still kill or severely injure people despite the use of bactericidal antibiotics. Therefore, new strategies for a better therapy are needed. Activin A, a member of the TGF-β superfamily and its binding protein follistatin (FS) are released by various cell types during acute and chronic inflammatory processes. Until now, a clear definition of conditions in which activin A exerts either its pro- or anti-inflammatory functions is lacking. The activin/FS-system participates in the fine-tuning of the host’s inflammatory response upon infectious stimuli. This response is on the one hand necessary for fighting pathogens, but on the other hand can negatively affect the host. This article focuses on the role of activin A and FS in infection and after acute inflammatory stimuli. The therapeutic potentials of blocking or promoting activin actions are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Roland Nau
- Department of Neuropathology, University of Göttingen, Robert-Koch-Str. 40, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
- Department of Geriatrics, Evangelisches Krankenhaus Göttingen-Weende, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Uwe Michel
- Department of Neurology, University of Göttingen, Robert-Koch-Str. 40, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
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Shaw JLV, Dey SK, Critchley HOD, Horne AW. Current knowledge of the aetiology of human tubal ectopic pregnancy. Hum Reprod Update 2010; 16:432-44. [PMID: 20071358 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmp057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 203] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND An ectopic pregnancy is a pregnancy which occurs outside of the uterine cavity, and over 98% implant in the Fallopian tube. Tubal ectopic pregnancy remains the most common cause of maternal mortality in the first trimester of pregnancy. The epidemiological risk factors for tubal ectopic pregnancy are well established and include: tubal damage as a result of surgery or infection (particularly Chlamydia trachomatis), smoking and in vitro fertilization. This review appraises the data to date researching the aetiology of tubal ectopic pregnancy. METHODS Scientific literature was searched for studies investigating the underlying aetiology of tubal ectopic pregnancy. RESULTS Existing data addressing the underlying cause of tubal ectopic pregnancy are mostly descriptive. There are currently few good animal models of tubal ectopic pregnancy. There are limited data explaining the link between risk factors and tubal implantation. CONCLUSIONS Current evidence supports the hypothesis that tubal ectopic pregnancy is caused by a combination of retention of the embryo within the Fallopian tube due to impaired embryo-tubal transport and alterations in the tubal environment allowing early implantation to occur. Future studies are needed that address the functional consequences of infection and smoking on Fallopian tube physiology. A greater understanding of the aetiology of tubal ectopic pregnancy is critical for the development of improved preventative measures, the advancement of diagnostic screening methods and the development of novel treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- J L V Shaw
- Centre for Reproductive Biology, Queen's Medical Research Institute, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK
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Fordyce C, Fessenden T, Pickering C, Jung J, Singla V, Berman H, Tlsty T. DNA damage drives an activin a-dependent induction of cyclooxygenase-2 in premalignant cells and lesions. Cancer Prev Res (Phila) 2009; 3:190-201. [PMID: 20028875 DOI: 10.1158/1940-6207.capr-09-0229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) catalyzes the rate-limiting step in the synthesis of prostaglandins. Its overexpression induces numerous tumor-promoting phenotypes and is associated with cancer metastasis and poor clinical outcome. Although COX-2 inhibitors are promising chemotherapeutic and chemopreventative agents for cancer, the risk of significant cardiovascular and gastrointestinal complications currently outweighs their potential benefits. Systemic complications of COX-2 inhibition could be avoided by specifically decreasing COX-2 expression in epithelial cells. To that end, we have investigated the signal transduction pathway regulating the COX-2 expression in response to DNA damage in breast epithelial cells. In variant human mammary epithelial cells that have silenced p16 (vHMEC), double-strand DNA damage or telomere malfunction results in a p53- and activin A-dependent induction of COX-2 and continued proliferation. In contrast, telomere malfunction in HMEC with an intact p16/Rb pathway induces cell cycle arrest. Importantly, in ductal carcinoma in situ lesions, high COX-2 expression is associated with high gammaH2AX, TRF2, activin A, and telomere malfunction. These data show that DNA damage and telomere malfunction can have both cell-autonomous and cell-nonautonomous consequences and can provide a novel mechanism for the propagation of tumorigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colleen Fordyce
- Department of Pathology, University of California, San Francisco, 94143, USA
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Zhang YQ, Resta S, Jung B, Barrett KE, Sarvetnick N, Busuttil R. Upregulation of activin signaling in experimental colitis. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2009; 297:G768-80. [PMID: 19643954 PMCID: PMC2763799 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.90631.2008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Several lines of studies have suggested that activins are critical mediators of inflammation and tissue repair. As activins and their receptors are expressed in the gastrointestinal tract, we tested the hypothesis that activin signaling is involved in the development of colitis by using two murine models of colitis induced by dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) or in mdr1a-/- mice. By immunohistochemistry, expression of activins was found increased in both models and correlated with the severity of inflammation. Activin expression was observed in macrophages as well as in some nonmacrophage cells. Furthermore, while activin receptors are normally expressed in colonic epithelial cells, their expression was further increased in both epithelial cells and inflammatory cells in inflamed colonic mucosa. Moreover, in vitro studies showed that activin A inhibited proliferation and induced apoptosis of intestinal epithelial cells, and this growth inhibition was largely reversed by administration of the activin inhibitor, follistatin. Because we also observed an increased number of apoptotic epithelial cells in both colitis models, the upregulation of activins occurring in colitis could be involved both in the inflammatory process and in growth inhibition of the intestinal epithelium. Importantly, in vivo administration of follistatin attenuated inflammatory cell infiltration during colitis. Rectal bleeding was reduced, and the integrity of epithelium was preserved in the DSS/follistatin-treated group compared with the group treated with DSS alone. Bromodeoxyuridine incorporation studies showed an increase in proliferative epithelial cells in the DSS/follistatin-treated group, suggesting that follistatin accelerates epithelial cell proliferation/repair during colitis. Overall, our results reveal that activin signaling may play an important role in the pathogenesis and resolution of colitis. These findings suggest new therapeutic options in inflammatory bowel diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- You-Qing Zhang
- 1Department of Immunology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla; ,2Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California;
| | - Silvia Resta
- 2Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California;
| | - Barbara Jung
- 2Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California;
| | - Kim E. Barrett
- 2Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California;
| | - Nora Sarvetnick
- 1Department of Immunology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla; ,3Department of Surgery, University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC), Omaha, Nebraska
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Hardy CL, Lemasurier JS, Olsson F, Dang T, Yao J, Yang M, Plebanski M, Phillips DJ, Mollard R, Rolland JM, O'Hehir RE. Interleukin-13 regulates secretion of the tumor growth factor-{beta} superfamily cytokine activin A in allergic airway inflammation. Am J Respir Cell Mol Biol 2009; 42:667-75. [PMID: 19635933 DOI: 10.1165/rcmb.2008-0429oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Activin A is a member of the TGF-beta superfamily and plays a role in allergic inflammation and asthma pathogenesis. Recent evidence suggests that activin A regulates proinflammatory cytokine production and is regulated by inflammatory mediators. In a murine model of acute allergic airway inflammation, we observed previously that increased activin A concentrations in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid coincide with Th2 cytokine production in lung-draining lymph nodes and pronounced mucus metaplasia in bronchial epithelium. We therefore hypothesized that IL-13, the key cytokine for mucus production, regulates activin A secretion into BAL fluid in experimental asthma. IL-13 increased BAL fluid activin A concentrations in naive mice and dose dependently induced activin A secretion from cultured human airway epithelium. A key role for IL-13 in the secretion of activin A into the BAL fluid during allergic airway inflammation was confirmed in IL-13-deficient mice. Eosinophils were not involved in this response because there was no difference in BAL fluid activin A concentrations between wild-type and eosinophil-deficient mice. Our data highlight an important role for IL-13 in the regulation of activin A intraepithelially and in BAL fluid in naive mice and during allergic airway inflammation. Given the immunomodulatory and fibrogenic effects of activin A, our findings suggest an important role for IL-13 regulation of activin A in asthma pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles L Hardy
- Department of Immunology, Monash University, Commercial Road, Melbourne, VIC 3004 Australia.
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Activin A induces dendritic cell migration through the polarized release of CXC chemokine ligands 12 and 14. Blood 2009; 113:5848-56. [DOI: 10.1182/blood-2008-12-194597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Activin A is a dimeric protein, member of the transforming growth factor (TGF)–β family that plays a crucial role in wound repair and in fetal tolerance. Emerging evidence also proposes activin A as a key mediator in inflammation. This study reports that activin A induces the directional migration of immature myeloid dendritic cells (iDCs) through the activation of ALK4 and ActRIIA receptor chains. Conversely, activin A was not active on plasmacytoid dendritic cells (DCs) or mature myeloid DCs. iDC migration to activin A was phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase γ–dependent, Bordetella pertussis toxin– and cycloheximide-sensitive, and was inhibited by M3, a viral-encoded chemokine-binding protein. In a real-time video microscopy-based migration assay, activin A induced polarization of iDCs, but not migration. These characteristics clearly differentiated the chemotactic activities of activin A from TGF-β and classic chemokines. By the use of combined pharmacologic and low-density microarray analysis, it was possible to define that activin-A–induced migration depends on the selective and polarized release of 2 chemokines, namely CXC chemokine ligands 12 and 14. This study extends the proinflammatory role of activin A to DC recruitment and provides a cautionary message about the reliability of the in vitro chemotaxis assays in discriminating direct versus indirect chemotactic agonists.
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Huber S, Stahl FR, Schrader J, Lüth S, Presser K, Carambia A, Flavell RA, Werner S, Blessing M, Herkel J, Schramm C. Activin A Promotes the TGF-β-Induced Conversion of CD4+CD25− T Cells into Foxp3+ Induced Regulatory T Cells. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2009; 182:4633-40. [DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.0803143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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Phillips DJ, de Kretser DM, Hedger MP. Activin and related proteins in inflammation: not just interested bystanders. Cytokine Growth Factor Rev 2009; 20:153-64. [PMID: 19261538 DOI: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2009.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Activin A, a member of the transforming growth factor-beta superfamily, is released rapidly into the circulation during inflammation. This review examines the evidence that activin is a critical mediator of inflammation and immunity. Activin modulates several aspects of the inflammatory response, including release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, nitric oxide production and immune cell activity. Crucially, inhibiting activin with follistatin, a high affinity binding protein, alters the pattern of cytokines released and improves survival in a mouse model of endotoxic shock. Serum and tissue concentrations of activin are elevated in a wide range of pathological conditions. The utility of activin as a diagnostic marker of clinical inflammation and the use of follistatin to block activin actions therapeutically are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J Phillips
- Monash Institute of Medical Research, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.
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Yang YG, Liu XJ, Zhang JH. Advances in research of activins C and E. Shijie Huaren Xiaohua Zazhi 2008; 16:1559-1567. [DOI: 10.11569/wcjd.v16.i14.1559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Activins, which consist of two disulfide-linked β subunits, are members of the transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) superfamily of growth factors. Four mammalian activin β subunits, termed as βA, βB, βC, and βE respectively, have been identified. Activin A, the homodimer of two βA subunits, is a pleiotropic cytokine and is expressed in many tissues and cells. There has been compelling evidence that activin A is involved in the regulation of reproductive biology, embryonic development, erythroid differentiation, systemic inflammation, induced apoptosis, tissue repair, fibrogenesis and so on, through classic activin signaling pathway. βC and βE subunits, which are almost exclusively expressed in the liver, are still quite incompletely understood. In this review, we summarize and discuss the function of βC and βE subunits in liver. Further research should be made to understand the biological role of the βC and βE subunits.
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Refaat B, Amer S, Ola B, Chapman N, Ledger W. The expression of activin-betaA- and -betaB-subunits, follistatin, and activin type II receptors in fallopian tubes bearing an ectopic pregnancy. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2008; 93:293-9. [PMID: 17971430 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2007-1654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Ectopic pregnancy is a major cause of maternal morbidity and mortality with increasing incidence worldwide. OBJECTIVE We investigated whether epithelia from Fallopian tubes (FTs) bearing an ectopic pregnancy differ from normal tubes in expression of TGF-beta family and related proteins and their receptors. METHODOLOGY Because it is not possible to collect FTs from women carrying a healthy pregnancy, we studied tissue collected at the time of hysterectomy for benign disease. Women were injected with human chorionic gonadotropin in the days leading up to hysterectomy to produce a state of pseudopregnancy. Pseudopregnancy status was confirmed by the presence of high serum progesterone levels and the decidualization of the endometrium. Fifteen FTs bearing ectopic pregnancy and six pseudopregnant tubes were collected and examined using immunohistochemistry and quantitative RT-PCR. RESULTS Immunohistochemistry demonstrated clear staining for the betaA- and betaB-subunits, type II receptor group comprising the activin type IIA and type IIB receptors, and follistatin, which increased in intensity from the isthmus to the ampulla in both models. However, the intensity of expression of these molecules was stronger in the ectopic pregnancy group when compared with the pseudopregnant group. Quantitative RT-PCR showed significant decrease in mRNA levels of betaA-subunit, activin type IIA and IIB receptors, and follistatin in ectopic group (P < 0.05) but no changes in betaB-subunit (P > 0.05). Overall, there was an apparent paradox of high concentration of protein but low mRNA expression. CONCLUSION Activin-A may stimulate tubal decidualization and trophoblast invasion. A better understanding of the mechanism by which an embryo implants in the tubal epithelium may lead to improved methods for early diagnosis and/or management of ectopic pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bassem Refaat
- Academic Unit of Reproductive and Developmental Medicine, Level 4, The Jessop Wing, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Sheffield S10 2SF, United Kingdom
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Activin as an anti-inflammatory cytokine produced by microglia. J Neuroimmunol 2007; 192:31-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2007.08.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2007] [Revised: 08/20/2007] [Accepted: 08/27/2007] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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Jones KL, Mansell A, Patella S, Scott BJ, Hedger MP, de Kretser DM, Phillips DJ. Activin A is a critical component of the inflammatory response, and its binding protein, follistatin, reduces mortality in endotoxemia. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2007; 104:16239-44. [PMID: 17911255 PMCID: PMC2042191 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.0705971104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 212] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Activin A is a member of the transforming growth factor-beta superfamily, which we have identified as having a role in inflammatory responses. We show that circulating levels of activin increase rapidly after LPS-induced challenge through activation of Toll-like receptor 4 and the key adaptor protein, MyD88. Treatment with the activin-binding protein, follistatin, alters the profiles of TNF, IL-1beta, and IL-6 after LPS stimulation, indicating that activin modulates the release of several key proinflammatory cytokines. Further, mice administered one 10-mug dose of follistatin to block activin effects have increased survival after a lethal dose of LPS, and the circulating levels of activin correlate with survival outcome. These findings demonstrate activin A's crucial role in the inflammatory response and show that blocking its actions by the use of follistatin has significant therapeutic potential to reduce the severity of inflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristian L. Jones
- Monash Institute of Medical Research, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - Ashley Mansell
- Monash Institute of Medical Research, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - Shane Patella
- Monash Institute of Medical Research, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - Bernadette J. Scott
- Monash Institute of Medical Research, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - Mark P. Hedger
- Monash Institute of Medical Research, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - David M. de Kretser
- Monash Institute of Medical Research, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - David J. Phillips
- Monash Institute of Medical Research, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
- *To whom correspondence should be addressed. E-mail:
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