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Suzuka T, Kotani T, Saito T, Matsuda S, Sato T, Takeuchi T. Therapeutic effects of adipose-derived mesenchymal stem/stromal cells with enhanced migration ability and hepatocyte growth factor secretion by low-molecular-weight heparin treatment in bleomycin-induced mouse models of systemic sclerosis. Arthritis Res Ther 2022; 24:228. [PMID: 36207753 PMCID: PMC9540693 DOI: 10.1186/s13075-022-02915-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ASCs) have gained attention as a new treatment for systemic sclerosis (SSc). Low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) enhances cell function and stimulates the production of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) in a variety of cells. This study investigated the effects of LMWH on the functions of mouse ASCs (mASCs), and the therapeutic effects of mASCs activated with LMWH (hep-mASCs) in mouse models of SSc. Methods The cellular functions of mASCs cultured with different concentrations of LMWH were determined. Mice were divided into four groups: bleomycin (BLM)-induced SSc (BLM-alone), BLM-induced SSc administered with mASCs (BLM-mASC), and BLM-induced SSc administered with mASCs activated with 10 or 100 μg/mL LMWH (BLM-hep-mASC); there were 9 mice per group (n = 9). Skin inflammation and fibrosis were evaluated using histological and biochemical examinations and gene expression levels. Results In vitro assays showed that migration ability and HGF production were significantly higher in hep-mASCs than in mASCs alone. The mRNA expression levels of cell migration factors were significantly upregulated in hep-mASCs compared to those in mASCs alone. The hep-mASCs accumulated in the skin tissues more than mASCs alone. The thickness of skin and hydroxyproline content in BLM-hep-mASC groups were significantly decreased, and the skin mRNA expression levels of interleukin-2, α-smooth muscle actin, transforming growth factor β1, collagen type 1 alpha 1, and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 2 were significantly downregulated compared to those in the BLM-alone group. Conclusions hep-mASCs showed higher anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic effects than mASCs alone and may be a promising candidate for SSc treatment. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13075-022-02915-6.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takayasu Suzuka
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Osaka Medical and Pharmaceutical University, Daigaku-Machi 2-7, Takatsuki, Osaka, Japan
| | - Takuya Kotani
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Osaka Medical and Pharmaceutical University, Daigaku-Machi 2-7, Takatsuki, Osaka, Japan.
| | - Takashi Saito
- Department of Legal Medicine, Osaka Medical and Pharmaceutical University, Daigaku-Machi 2-7, Takatsuki, Osaka, Japan.
| | - Shogo Matsuda
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Osaka Medical and Pharmaceutical University, Daigaku-Machi 2-7, Takatsuki, Osaka, Japan
| | - Takako Sato
- Department of Legal Medicine, Osaka Medical and Pharmaceutical University, Daigaku-Machi 2-7, Takatsuki, Osaka, Japan
| | - Tohru Takeuchi
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Osaka Medical and Pharmaceutical University, Daigaku-Machi 2-7, Takatsuki, Osaka, Japan
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Matsuda S, Kotani T, Saito T, Suzuka T, Mori T, Takeuchi T. Low-Molecular-Weight Heparin Enhanced Therapeutic Effects of Human Adipose-Derived Stem Cell Administration in a Mouse Model of Lupus Nephritis. Front Immunol 2022; 12:792739. [PMID: 35095868 PMCID: PMC8792143 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.792739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Lupus nephritis is a life-threatening complication in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), but the efficiency of current therapies involving corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, and biological agents is limited. Adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ASCs) are gaining attention as a novel treatment for inflammation in SLE. Low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) exhibits multiple functions including anti-inflammatory, anti-fibrotic, and cell function-promoting effects. LMWH stimulation is expected to increase the therapeutic effect of ASCs by promoting cellular functions. In this study, we investigated the effects of LMWH on ASC functions and the therapeutic effect of LMWH-activated human-ASCs (hep-hASCs) in an SLE mouse model. Methods The cellular functions of human-derived ASCs stimulated with different LMWH concentrations were observed, and the optimum LMWH dose was selected. The mice were assigned to control, human-ASC, and hep-hASC groups; treatments were performed on week 20. Twenty-six week-old mice were sacrificed, and urine protein score, serum blood urea nitrogen, creatinine (Cr), anti-ds DNA IgG antibody, and serum IL-6 levels were analyzed in each group. Mice kidneys were evaluated via histological examination, immunohistochemical staining, and gene expression levels. Results LMWH significantly promoted ASC migration and proliferation and hepatocyte growth factor production and upregulated immunomodulatory factors in vitro. Hep-hASC administration resulted in significant disease activity improvement including proteinuria, serum Cr and IL-6 levels, anti-ds DNA IgG antibody, glomerulonephritis, and immune complex in mice. Inflammation and fibrosis in kidneys was significantly suppressed in the hep-hASC group; the gene expression levels of TNF-alpha, TIMP-2, and MMP-2 was significantly downregulated in the hep-hASC group compared with the control group. Conclusions Hep-hASC exhibited higher anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic effects than hASCs and may be a candidate tool for SLE treatment in future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shogo Matsuda
- Department of Internal Medicine (IV), Osaka Medical and Pharmaceutical University, Takatsuki, Japan
| | - Takuya Kotani
- Department of Internal Medicine (IV), Osaka Medical and Pharmaceutical University, Takatsuki, Japan
| | - Takashi Saito
- Department of Legal Medicine, Osaka Medical and Pharmaceutical University, Takatsuki, Japan
| | - Takayasu Suzuka
- Department of Internal Medicine (IV), Osaka Medical and Pharmaceutical University, Takatsuki, Japan
| | - Tatsuhiko Mori
- Medical Education Center, Osaka Medical and Pharmaceutical University, Takatsuki, Japan
| | - Tohru Takeuchi
- Department of Internal Medicine (IV), Osaka Medical and Pharmaceutical University, Takatsuki, Japan
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Antifibrotic therapy by sustained release of low molecular weight heparin from poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) microparticles on bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis in mice. Sci Rep 2020; 10:19019. [PMID: 33149192 PMCID: PMC7642430 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-76034-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2019] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Heparin and low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) have recently been considered useful treatment tools for inflammation. Heparin has antifibrotic activity, mediated by cellular secretion of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF). HGF has antifibrotic properties demonstrated in experimental models of lung, kidney, heart, skin, and liver fibrosis. The ability of LMWH for HGF secretion is similar to that of normal heparin. Poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) is widely used for sustained drug release, because of its biocompatibility and low toxicity. LMWH-loaded PLGA microparticles are prepared by a conventional water-in-oil-in-water emulsion method. Interstitial pneumonia is a life-threatening pathological condition that causes respiratory failure when it progresses. In the present study, we investigated the therapeutic effect of LMWH-loaded PLGA microparticles in a mouse model of bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis. The ratios of fibrotic area to total area were significantly lower in mice administered LMWH-loaded microparticles than in mice administered bleomycin alone. The microparticle administration did not further enhance the gene expression for inflammatory cytokines. In a cell culture study, HGF secretion by mouse and human lung fibroblasts was significantly increased by LMWH addition. We conclude that LMWH showed anti-inflammatory activity, through the effects of LMWH-loaded PLGA microparticles on cells at sites of inflammation.
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Choi W, Lee J, Lee J, Lee SH, Kim S. Hepatocyte Growth Factor Regulates Macrophage Transition to the M2 Phenotype and Promotes Murine Skeletal Muscle Regeneration. Front Physiol 2019; 10:914. [PMID: 31404148 PMCID: PMC6672745 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2019.00914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2018] [Accepted: 07/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) is well known for its role in the migration of embryonic muscle progenitors and the activation of adult muscle stem cells, yet its functions during the adult muscle regeneration process remain to be elucidated. In this study, we showed that HGF/c-met signaling was activated during muscle regeneration, and that among various infiltrated cells, the macrophage is the major cell type affected by HGF. Pharmacological inhibition of the c-met receptor by PHA-665752 increased the expression levels of pro-inflammatory (M1) macrophage markers such as IL-1β and iNOS while lowering those of pro-regenerative (M2) macrophage markers like IL-10 and TGF-β, resulting in compromised muscle repair. In Raw 264.7 cells, HGF decreased the RNA level of LPS-induced TNF-α, IL-1β, and iNOS while enhancing that of IL-10. HGF was also shown to increase the phosphorylation of AMPKα through CaMKKβ, thereby overcoming the effects of the LPS-induced deactivation of AMPKα. Transfection with specific siRNA to AMPKα diminished the effects of HGF on the LPS-induced gene expressions of M1 and M2 markers. Exogenous delivery of HGF through intramuscular injection of the HGF-expressing plasmid vector promoted the transition to M2 macrophage and facilitated muscle regeneration. Taken together, our findings suggested that HGF/c-met might play an important role in the transition of the macrophage during muscle repair, indicating the potential use of HGF as a basis for developing therapeutics for muscle degenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wooshik Choi
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jaeman Lee
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Junghun Lee
- R&D Center for Innovative Medicines, ViroMed Co., Ltd, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Sang Hwan Lee
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Sunyoung Kim
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea.,R&D Center for Innovative Medicines, ViroMed Co., Ltd, Seoul, South Korea
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Wang Q, Zang W, Han L, Yang L, Ye S, Ouyang J, Zhang C, Bi Y, Zhang C, Bian H. Wenyang Huazhuo Tongluo formula inhibits fibrosis via suppressing Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in a Bleomycin-induced systemic sclerosis mouse model. Chin Med 2018; 13:17. [PMID: 29599817 PMCID: PMC5870182 DOI: 10.1186/s13020-018-0175-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2018] [Accepted: 03/20/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disease characterized by fibrosis of the skin and internal organs. So far, no Western medicine treatment can completely inhibit or reverse the progress of SSc, while at the same time, our previous series of studies have shown that the treatment of SSc by the Wenyang Huazhuo Tongluo formula (WYHZTL), a Chinese herbal decoction, shows a delightful prospect. The aim of this study is to further investigate the mechanism of anti-fibrosis of WYHZTL formula in SSc mouse model. Methods The Bleomycin-induced SSc mouse model was treated with saline (BLM), high-dosage of WYHZTL formula (WYHZTL-H), medium-dosage of WYHZTL formula (WYHZTL-M), low-dosage of WYHZTL formula (WYHZTL-L) and XAV-939, a small molecule inhibitor of Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, by the intragastric administration and intraperitoneal injection, respectively. The mRNA and protein levels of Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway associated genes, fibrosis markers and histopathology were detected by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction, Western blotting and hematoxylin/eosin-staining. The levels of Wnt1, CTGF and DKK1 protein in serum were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results Compared with BLM group, the WYHZTL formula and XAV-939 could significantly inhibit the thickness of the skin tissue of the SSc mouse model. The mRNA expression levels of GSK3β and DKK1 in the WYHZTL formula and XAV-939-treated group were significantly higher than those in the BLM group, while Wnt1, β-catenin, TCF4, cyclin D1, survivin, VEGF, CTGF, FN1, collagen I/III were decreased. Compared with BLM group, the protein expression levels of GSK3β and DKK1 in the WYHZTL formula and XAV-939-treated group were upregulated, while Wnt1, β-catenin, cyclin D1, survivin, CTGF, FN1, collagen I/III were downregulated. WYHZTL formula and XAV-939 could inhibit expression of Wnt1 and CTGF, but promoted DKK1 in serum. Furthermore, WYHZTL-H seemed more effective than WYHZTL-M and/or XAV-939 on regulating Wnt1, β-catenin, TCF4, GSK3β, DKK1, cyclin D1, survivin, VEGF, CTGF, FN1 and collagen I/III. Conclusion This present study demonstrates that WYHZTL formula has anti-fibrosis effect in Bleomycin-induced SSc mouse model in a dosage-dependent manner, and the molecular mechanism may be related to the inhibition of Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13020-018-0175-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Wang
- 1Zhang Zhongjing College of Chinese Medicine, Nanyang Institute of Technology, Changjiang Road 80, Nanyang, 473004 Henan China.,2Henan Key Laboratory of Zhang Zhongjing Formulae and Herbs for Immunoregulation, Nanyang Institute of Technology, Nanyang, Henan China
| | - Wenhua Zang
- 1Zhang Zhongjing College of Chinese Medicine, Nanyang Institute of Technology, Changjiang Road 80, Nanyang, 473004 Henan China.,2Henan Key Laboratory of Zhang Zhongjing Formulae and Herbs for Immunoregulation, Nanyang Institute of Technology, Nanyang, Henan China
| | - Li Han
- 1Zhang Zhongjing College of Chinese Medicine, Nanyang Institute of Technology, Changjiang Road 80, Nanyang, 473004 Henan China.,2Henan Key Laboratory of Zhang Zhongjing Formulae and Herbs for Immunoregulation, Nanyang Institute of Technology, Nanyang, Henan China
| | - Lei Yang
- 1Zhang Zhongjing College of Chinese Medicine, Nanyang Institute of Technology, Changjiang Road 80, Nanyang, 473004 Henan China.,2Henan Key Laboratory of Zhang Zhongjing Formulae and Herbs for Immunoregulation, Nanyang Institute of Technology, Nanyang, Henan China
| | - Songshan Ye
- 1Zhang Zhongjing College of Chinese Medicine, Nanyang Institute of Technology, Changjiang Road 80, Nanyang, 473004 Henan China.,2Henan Key Laboratory of Zhang Zhongjing Formulae and Herbs for Immunoregulation, Nanyang Institute of Technology, Nanyang, Henan China
| | - Jingfeng Ouyang
- 3Experimental Research Center, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Chaoyun Zhang
- 1Zhang Zhongjing College of Chinese Medicine, Nanyang Institute of Technology, Changjiang Road 80, Nanyang, 473004 Henan China
| | - Yuefeng Bi
- 4School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan China
| | - Cuiyue Zhang
- 1Zhang Zhongjing College of Chinese Medicine, Nanyang Institute of Technology, Changjiang Road 80, Nanyang, 473004 Henan China
| | - Hua Bian
- 1Zhang Zhongjing College of Chinese Medicine, Nanyang Institute of Technology, Changjiang Road 80, Nanyang, 473004 Henan China.,2Henan Key Laboratory of Zhang Zhongjing Formulae and Herbs for Immunoregulation, Nanyang Institute of Technology, Nanyang, Henan China
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Li J, Zheng CQ, Li Y, Yang C, Lin H, Duan HG. Hepatocyte Growth Factor Gene-Modified Mesenchymal Stem Cells Augment Sinonasal Wound Healing. Stem Cells Dev 2015; 24:1817-30. [PMID: 25835956 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2014.0521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
This study was designed to investigate the effects of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) transgenic mesenchymal stem cells (HGF-MSCs) on wound healing in the sinonasal mucosa and nasal epithelial cells (NECs). We also sought to determine whether HGF-MSCs and MSCs can migrate into the injured mucosa and differentiate into ciliated cells. Human HGF-overexpressing umbilical cord MSCs (hHGF-UCMSCs) were established, and upregulation of hHGF expression was confirmed by real-time PCR (RT-PCR) and enzyme-linked immunosorbant assay (ELISA). To investigate the paracrine effect of human MSCs (hMSCs) on nasal epithelial repair, hMSC- and HGF-MSC-conditioned media (CM) were used in NEC proliferation assays and in an in vitro scratch-wound repair model. The in vivo sinonasal wound-healing model was established, and all enrolled rabbits were randomly assigned to four groups: the GFP-MSC group, the HGF-MSC group, the Ad-HGF group, and the surgery control group. The average decreased diameter was recorded, and the medial wall of the maxillary sinus was removed for histological analysis and scanning electron microscopy. Collagen deposition in the wound tissue was detected via Masson trichrome (M&T) staining. The distribution of MSCs and HGF-MSCs was observed by immunofluorescence. MSCs improved nasal wound healing both in vivo and in vitro. HGF overexpression in MSCs augmented the curative effects. Reduced collagen deposition and transforming growth factor beta1 (TGF-β1) expression were detected in the HGF-MSC group compared with the MSC-, Ad-HGF-, and phosphate-buffered saline-treated groups based on M&T staining and ELISA. The enhanced therapeutic effects of HGF-MSCs were accompanied by decreased level of the fibrogenic cytokine TGF-β1. In addition, both HGF-MSCs and MSCs can migrate to the injured mucosa and epithelial layer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Li
- 1 Department of Otolaryngology, Eye and ENT Hospital of Fudan University , Shanghai, China .,2 Department of Otolaryngology, First Hospital of Hangzhou City , Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Chun-Quan Zheng
- 1 Department of Otolaryngology, Eye and ENT Hospital of Fudan University , Shanghai, China
| | - Yong Li
- 2 Department of Otolaryngology, First Hospital of Hangzhou City , Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Chen Yang
- 1 Department of Otolaryngology, Eye and ENT Hospital of Fudan University , Shanghai, China
| | - Hai Lin
- 1 Department of Otolaryngology, Eye and ENT Hospital of Fudan University , Shanghai, China
| | - Hong-Gang Duan
- 3 Department of Otolaryngology, Second Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University , Hangzhou, China
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Branford OA, Klass BR, Grobbelaar AO, Rolfe KJ. The growth factors involved in flexor tendon repair and adhesion formation. J Hand Surg Eur Vol 2014; 39:60-70. [PMID: 24162452 DOI: 10.1177/1753193413509231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Flexor tendon injuries remain a significant clinical problem, owing to the formation of adhesions or tendon rupture. A number of strategies have been tried to improve outcomes, but as yet none are routinely used in clinical practice. Understanding the role that growth factors play in tendon repair should enable a more targeted approach to be developed to improve the results of flexor tendon repair. This review describes the main growth factors in tendon wound healing, and the role they play in both repair and adhesion formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- O A Branford
- Institute for Plastic Surgery Research and Education, The Royal Free Hospital, London, UK
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RUKSHA TG, AKSENENKO MB, KLIMINA GM, NOVIKOVA LV. Extracellular matrix of the skin: role in the development of dermatological diseases. VESTNIK DERMATOLOGII I VENEROLOGII 2013. [DOI: 10.25208/vdv578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Extracellular matrix is a system of proteins and polysaccharides maintaining the structural integrity of an organ or tissue. At the same time, in addition to its “classical” function extracellular matrix components regulate many important processes including participation in the signal transmission, regulation of cell division and differentiation, which makes extracellular matrix molecules a prospective target for treatment of a lot of diseases.
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Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is currently believed to be driven by alveolar epithelial cells, with abnormally activated alveolar epithelial cells accumulating in an attempt to repair injured alveolar epithelium (1). Thus, targeting the alveolar epithelium to prevent or inhibit the development of pulmonary fibrosis might be an interesting therapeutic option in this disease. Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) is a growth factor for epithelial and endothelial cells, which is secreted by different cell types, especially fibroblasts and neutrophils. HGF has mitogenic, motogenic, and morphogenic properties and exerts an antiapoptotic action on epithelial and endothelial cells. HGF has also proangiogenic effect. In vitro, HGF inhibits epithelial-to-mesenchymal cell transition and promotes myofibroblast apoptosis. In vivo, HGF has antifibrotic properties demonstrated in experimental models of lung, kidney, heart, skin, and liver fibrosis. Hence, the modulation of HGF may be an attractive target for the treatment of lung fibrosis.
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Abstract
Fibrosis is defined as a fibroproliferative or abnormal fibroblast activation-related disease. Deregulation of wound healing leads to hyperactivation of fibroblasts and excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins in the wound area, the pathological manifestation of fibrosis. The accumulation of excessive levels of collagen in the ECM depends on two factors: an increased rate of collagen synthesis and or decreased rate of collagen degradation by cellular proteolytic activities. The urokinase/tissue type plasminogen activator (uPA/tPA) and plasmin play significant roles in the cellular proteolytic degradation of ECM proteins and the maintenance of tissue homeostasis. The activities of uPA/tPA/plasmin and plasmin-dependent MMPs rely mostly on the activity of a potent inhibitor of uPA/tPA, plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1). Under normal physiologic conditions, PAI-1 controls the activities of uPA/tPA/plasmin/MMP proteolytic activities and thus maintains the tissue homeostasis. During wound healing, elevated levels of PAI-1 inhibit uPA/tPA/plasmin and plasmin-dependent MMP activities, and, thus, help expedite wound healing. In contrast to this scenario, under pathologic conditions, excessive PAI-1 contributes to excessive accumulation of collagen and other ECM protein in the wound area, and thus preserves scarring. While the level of PAI-1 is significantly elevated in fibrotic tissues, lack of PAI-1 protects different organs from fibrosis in response to injury-related profibrotic signals. Thus, PAI-1 is implicated in the pathology of fibrosis in different organs including the heart, lung, kidney, liver, and skin. Paradoxically, PAI-1 deficiency promotes spontaneous cardiac-selective fibrosis. In this review, we discuss the significance of PAI-1 in the pathogenesis of fibrosis in multiple organs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asish K Ghosh
- Feinberg Cardiovascular Research Institute, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois 60611, USA.
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Animal models of cutaneous and hepatic fibrosis. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2012; 105:371-409. [PMID: 22137437 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-394596-9.00011-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Fibrosis occurs as a part of normal wound healing. However, excessive or dysregulated fibrosis can lead to severe organ dysfunction and is a feature of a variety of diseases. Due to its insidious onset, fibrosis tends to go undetected in its early stages. This is in part why these diseases remain so poorly understood. Animal models have provided a means to examine these early stages and to isolate and understand the effect of perturbations in signaling pathways, chemokines, and cytokines. Here, we summarize recent progress in the understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of fibrosis, both its initiation and its maintenance phases, from animal models of fibrosis in the skin and liver. Due to these organs' properties, modeling fibrosis in them poses unique challenges. Elegant solutions have therefore been developed for modeling fibrosis in each, and now, great potential for animal models to contribute to our understanding appears scientifically imminent.
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Effect of topical interferon-γ gene therapy using gemini nanoparticles on pathophysiological markers of cutaneous scleroderma in Tsk/+ mice. Gene Ther 2011; 19:978-87. [DOI: 10.1038/gt.2011.159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
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Abstract
Skin fibrosis occurs in a variety of human diseases, most notably systemic sclerosis (SSc). The end stage of scleroderma in human skin consists of excess collagen deposition in the dermis with loss of adnexal structures and associated adipose tissue. The initiating factors for this process and the early stages are believed to occur through vascular injury and immune dysfunction with a dysregulated inflammatory response. However, because of the insidious onset of the disease, this stage is rarely observed in humans and remains poorly understood. Animal models have provided a means to examine these early stages and to isolate and understand the effect of perturbations in signaling pathways, chemokines, and cytokines. This article summarizes recent progress in the understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of skin fibrosis in SSc from different animal models, both its initiation and its maintenance phases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gideon P Smith
- New York University School of Medicine, 550 First Avenue, NBV 16N1, New York, NY 10016, USA.
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15
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Nakamura T, Mizuno S. The discovery of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and its significance for cell biology, life sciences and clinical medicine. PROCEEDINGS OF THE JAPAN ACADEMY. SERIES B, PHYSICAL AND BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES 2010; 86:588-610. [PMID: 20551596 PMCID: PMC3081175 DOI: 10.2183/pjab.86.588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 343] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
It has been more than 25 years since HGF was discovered as a mitogen of hepatocytes. HGF is produced by stromal cells, and stimulates epithelial cell proliferation, motility, morphogenesis and angiogenesis in various organs via tyrosine phosphorylation of its receptor, c-Met. In fetal stages, HGF-neutralization, or c-Met gene destruction, leads to hypoplasia of many organs, indicating that HGF signals are essential for organ development. Endogenous HGF is required for self-repair of injured livers, kidneys, lungs and so on. In addition, HGF exerts protective effects on epithelial and non-epithelial organs (including the heart and brain) via anti-apoptotic and anti-inflammatory signals. During organ diseases, plasma HGF levels significantly increased, while anti-HGF antibody infusion accelerated tissue destruction in rodents. Thus, endogenous HGF is required for minimization of diseases, while insufficient production of HGF leads to organ failure. This is the reason why HGF supplementation produces therapeutic outcomes under pathological conditions. Moreover, emerging studies delineated key roles of HGF during tumor metastasis, while HGF-antagonism leads to anti-tumor outcomes. Taken together, HGF-based molecules, including HGF-variants, HGF-fragments and c-Met-binders are available as regenerative or anti-tumor drugs. Molecular analysis of the HGF-c-Met system could provide bridges between basic biology and clinical medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toshikazu Nakamura
- Kringle Pharma Joint Research Division for Regenerative Drug Discovery, Center for Advanced Science and Innovation, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan.
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Urokinase-type plasminogen activator increases hepatocyte growth factor activity required for skeletal muscle regeneration. Blood 2009; 114:5052-61. [PMID: 19812386 DOI: 10.1182/blood-2008-12-196212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The plasminogen system plays a crucial role in the repair of a variety of tissues, including skeletal muscle. We hypothesized that urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA) promotes muscle regeneration by activating hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), which, in turn, stimulates proliferation of myoblasts required for regeneration. In our studies, levels of active HGF and phosphorylation of the HGF receptor c-met were increased after muscle injury in wild-type mice. Compared with wild-type animals, mice deficient in uPA (uPA(-/-)) had markedly reduced HGF levels and c-met activation after muscle damage. This reduced HGF activity in uPA(-/-) animals was associated with decreased cell proliferation, myoblast accumulation, and new muscle fiber formation. On the other hand, HGF activity was enhanced at early time points in PAI-1(-/-) mice compared with wild-type mice and the PAI-1(-/-) animals exhibited accelerated muscle fiber regeneration. Furthermore, administration of exogenous uPA rescued HGF levels and muscle regeneration in uPA(-/-) mice, and an HGF-blocking antibody reduced HGF activity and muscle regeneration in wild-type mice. We also found that uPA promotes myoblast proliferation in vitro through its proteolytic activity, and this process was inhibited by an HGF-blocking antibody. Together, our findings demonstrate that uPA promotes muscle regeneration through HGF activation and subsequent myoblast proliferation.
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Hummers LK, Hall A, Wigley FM, Simons M. Abnormalities in the regulators of angiogenesis in patients with scleroderma. J Rheumatol 2009; 36:576-82. [PMID: 19228661 DOI: 10.3899/jrheum.080516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine plasma levels of regulators of angiogenesis in patients with scleroderma and to correlate those levels with manifestations of scleroderma-related vascular disease. METHODS Plasma levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2), matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), endostatin, pro-MMP-1, hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), placental growth factor (PlGF), and FGF-4 were examined by ELISA in a cross-sectional study of 113 patients with scleroderma and 27 healthy controls. Simple and multivariate regression models were used to look for associations between factor levels and clinical disease characteristics. RESULTS There were marked differences in the levels of pro-angiogenic growth factors between patients with scleroderma and controls, with significant elevations of VEGF, PDGF, FGF-2, and PlGF among patients with scleroderma (p < 0.0001). Levels of MMP were also higher in scleroderma patients compared to controls (MMP-9 and pro-MMP-1) (p < 0.0001). Levels of the pro-angiogenic and anti-fibrotic factor, HGF, were noted to be lower in patients with scleroderma, but had a positive correlation with right ventricular systolic pressure (RVSP) as measured by echocardiogram (p < 0.0001) and the Raynaud Severity Score (p = 0.05). Endostatin (an anti-angiogenic factor) was notably higher in patients with scleroderma (p < 0.0001) and also correlated positively with RVSP (p = 0.023). CONCLUSION These results demonstrate striking abnormalities in the circulating regulators of angiogenesis in patients with scleroderma. The levels of some factors correlate with measures of vascular disease among patients with scleroderma. Dysregulated angiogenesis may play a role in the development of scleroderma vascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura K Hummers
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA.
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Wu M, Melichian DS, Chang E, Warner-Blankenship M, Ghosh AK, Varga J. Rosiglitazone abrogates bleomycin-induced scleroderma and blocks profibrotic responses through peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2009; 174:519-33. [PMID: 19147827 DOI: 10.2353/ajpath.2009.080574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 178] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The nuclear hormone receptor, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)-gamma, originally identified as a key mediator of adipogenesis, is expressed widely and implicated in diverse biological responses. Both natural and synthetic agonists of PPAR-gamma abrogated the stimulation of collagen synthesis and myofibroblast differentiation induced by transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta in vitro. To characterize the role of PPAR-gamma in the fibrotic process in vivo, the synthetic agonist rosiglitazone was used in a mouse model of scleroderma. Rosiglitazone attenuated bleomycin-induced skin inflammation and dermal fibrosis as well as subcutaneous lipoatrophy and counteracted the up-regulation of collagen gene expression and myofibroblast accumulation in the lesioned skin. Rosiglitazone treatment reduced the induction of the early-immediate transcription factor Egr-1 in situ without also blocking the activation of Smad2/3. In both explanted fibroblasts and skin organ cultures, rosiglitazone prevented the stimulation of collagen gene transcription and cell migration elicited by TGF-beta. Rosiglitazone-driven adipogenic differentiation of both fibroblasts and preadipocytes was abrogated in the presence of TGF-beta; this effect was accompanied by the concomitant down-regulation of cellular PPAR-gamma mRNA expression. Collectively, these results indicate that rosiglitazone treatment attenuates inflammation, dermal fibrosis, and subcutaneous lipoatrophy via PPAR-gamma in a mouse model of scleroderma and suggest that pharmacological PPAR-gamma ligands, widely used as insulin sensitizers in the treatment of type-2 diabetes mellitus, may be potential therapies for scleroderma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minghua Wu
- Section of Rheumatology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago IL 60611, USA
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Badea I, Taylor M, Rosenberg A, Foldvari M. Pathogenesis and therapeutic approaches for improved topical treatment in localized scleroderma and systemic sclerosis. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2008; 48:213-21. [PMID: 19022832 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/ken405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
SSc is a chronic progressive disorder of unknown aetiology characterized by excess synthesis and deposition of collagen and other extracellular matrix components in a variety of tissues and organs. Localized scleroderma (LS) differs from SSc in that with LS only skin and occasionally subcutaneous tissues are involved. Although rarely life threatening, LS can be disfiguring and disabling and, consequently, can adversely affect quality of life. There is no known effective treatment for LS, and various options, including, as examples, corticosteroids and other immunomodulatory agents, ultraviolet radiation and vitamin D analogues, are of unproven efficacy. Clinical trials evaluating combination therapy such as corticosteroids with MTX or UVA1 exposure with psoralens have not been established as consistently effective. New immunomodulators such as tacrolimus and thalidomide are also being evaluated. A better understanding of the molecular and cellular mechanisms of LS has led to evaluation of new treatments that modulate profibrotic cytokines such as TGF-beta and IL-4, regulate assembly and deposition of extracellular matrix components, and restore Th1/Th2 immune balance by administering IL-12 or IFN-gamma. IFN-gamma acts by directly inhibiting collagen synthesis and by restoring immune balance. In this review, we evaluate current and future treatment options for LS and cutaneous involvement in SSc. Recent advances in therapy focus mainly on anti-fibrotic agents. Delivery of these drugs into the skin as the target tissue might be a key factor in developing more effective and safer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Badea
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada
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20
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Abstract
An understanding of the complex pathogenesis of systemic sclerosis (SSc) has been slow to emerge, due in large part to the lack of an animal model recapitulating the three cardinal attributes of SSc: autoimmunity, vasculopathy, and fibrosis. Experimental manipulations in inbred murine strains can lead to conditions that mimic SSc fibrosis. Furthermore, genetic engineering has enabled the creation of novel murine strains that spontaneously develop fibrosis or are protected from fibrosis development. Studies of these mice shed light on the cell types, cell interactions, molecules, and pathways that contribute to SSc manifestations. High-throughput discovery technologies such as DNA microarrays in animal models can identify novel genes and regulatory networks that are important for disease manifestations and that may be targets for therapy. In this brief review, we highlight recent progress in the field and attempt to place the strengths and limitations of popular SSc murine models in perspective.
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Bogatkevich GS, Ludwicka-Bradley A, Highland KB, Hant F, Nietert PJ, Singleton CB, Silver RM. Down-regulation of collagen and connective tissue growth factor expression with hepatocyte growth factor in lung fibroblasts from white scleroderma patients via two signaling pathways. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007; 56:3468-77. [PMID: 17907155 DOI: 10.1002/art.22874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study the mechanisms by which hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) down-regulates collagen and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) in scleroderma (systemic sclerosis [SSc]) lung fibroblasts. METHODS CTGF, type I collagen, and IkappaBalpha expression, together with MAPK phosphorylation, were studied by immunoblotting of lung fibroblasts derived from white SSc patients. Matrix metalloproteinase 1 (MMP-1) expression in cell culture medium samples was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, MMP-1 activity was studied using an MMP-1 assay, and NF-kappaB DNA binding activity was determined using a transcription factor assay. RESULTS In lung fibroblasts from white SSc patients, HGF activated MAPK (ERK-1/2) signaling pathways and MMP-1, while it inhibited NF-kappaB and significantly down-regulated CTGF and collagen in a time- and dose-dependent manner. Small interfering RNA (siRNA)-mediated depletion of Grb2 expression disrupted c-Met receptor downstream signaling, which resulted in diminished HGF-induced ERK-1/2 phosphorylation and the recovery of HGF-inhibited expression of MMP-1, NF-kappaB, collagen, and CTGF. The MAPK inhibitor, U0126, blocked MMP-1 activity and restored HGF-inhibited collagen and CTGF accumulation. Inhibition of MMP activity by MMP inhibitor GM1489 and inhibition of MMP-1 expression by siRNA did not prevent HGF-induced ERK-1/2 phosphorylation and NF-kappaB activity, but significantly restored HGF-inhibited collagen and CTGF accumulation. NF-kappaB inhibitor BAY 11-7082 did not interfere with MAPK phosphorylation or MMP-1 expression and activation, but significantly inhibited NF-kappaB DNA binding activity and acted synergistically with HGF to completely diminish the expression of CTGF. CONCLUSION In lung fibroblasts from white SSc patients, HGF down-regulates the accumulation of CTGF via MAPK/MMP-1 and NF-kappaB signaling pathways, whereas collagen down-regulation is mediated mainly by a MAPK/MMP-1-dependent pathway.
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22
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Iwasaki T, Imado T, Kitano S, Sano H. Hepatocyte growth factor ameliorates dermal sclerosis in the tight-skin mouse model of scleroderma. Arthritis Res Ther 2007; 8:R161. [PMID: 17049072 PMCID: PMC1794503 DOI: 10.1186/ar2068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2006] [Revised: 09/14/2006] [Accepted: 10/18/2006] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The tight-skin (TSK/+) mouse, a genetic model of systemic sclerosis (SSc), develops cutaneous fibrosis and defects in pulmonary architecture. Because hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) is an important mitogen and morphogen that contributes to the repair process after tissue injury, we investigated the role of HGF in cutaneous fibrosis and pulmonary architecture defects in SSc using TSK/+ mice. TSK/+ mice were injected in the gluteal muscle with either hemagglutinating virus of Japan (HVJ) liposomes containing 8 μg of a human HGF expression vector (HGF-HVJ liposomes) or a mock vector (untreated control). Gene transfer was repeated once weekly for 8 weeks. The effects of HGF gene transfection on the histopathology and expression of tumor growth factor (TGF)-β and IL-4 mRNA in TSK/+ mice were examined. The effect of recombinant HGF on IL-4 production by TSK/+ CD4+ T cells stimulated by allogeneic dendritic cells (DCs) in vitro was also examined. Histologic analysis revealed that HGF gene transfection in TSK/+ mice resulted in a marked reduction of hypodermal thickness, including the subcutaneous connective tissue layer. The hypodermal thickness of HGF-treated TSK/+ mice was decreased two-fold to three-fold compared with untreated TSK/+ mice. However, TSK/+ associated defects in pulmonary architecture were unaffected by HGF gene transfection. HGF gene transfection significantly inhibited the expression of IL-4 and TGF-β1 mRNA in the spleen and skin but not in the lung. We also performed a mixed lymphocyte culture and examined the effect of recombinant HGF on the generation of IL-4. Recombinant HGF significantly inhibited IL-4 production in TSK/+ CD4+ T cells stimulated by allogeneic DCs. HGF gene transfection inhibited IL-4 and TGF-β mRNA expression, which has been postulated to have a major role in fibrinogenesis and reduced hypodermal thickness, including the subcutaneous connective tissue layer of TSK/+ mice. HGF might represent a novel strategy for the treatment of SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsuyoshi Iwasaki
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, Hyogo College of Medicine, 1-1 Mukogawa-cho, Nishinomiya, Hyogo 663-8501, Japan
| | - Takehito Imado
- Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Hyogo College of Medicine, 1-1 Mukogawa-cho, Nishinomiya, Hyogo 663-8501, Japan
| | - Sachie Kitano
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, Hyogo College of Medicine, 1-1 Mukogawa-cho, Nishinomiya, Hyogo 663-8501, Japan
| | - Hajime Sano
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, Hyogo College of Medicine, 1-1 Mukogawa-cho, Nishinomiya, Hyogo 663-8501, Japan
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Sherriff-Tadano R, Ohta A, Morito F, Mitamura M, Haruta Y, Koarada S, Tada Y, Nagasawa K, Ozaki I. Antifibrotic effects of hepatocyte growth factor on scleroderma fibroblasts and analysis of its mechanism. Mod Rheumatol 2006; 16:364-71. [PMID: 17164998 DOI: 10.1007/s10165-006-0525-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2006] [Accepted: 08/28/2006] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
We investigated the effect of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) on collagen metabolism in cultured fibroblasts from scleroderma (SSc) patients and discussed the possible mechanism of its effect. Synthesis of matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) and collagen and mRNA levels of various cytokines were examined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and real-time polymerase chain reaction, respectively. Hepatocyte growth factor enhanced MMP-1 production and mRNA levels of MMP-1 and Ets-1 (a transcriptional factor of MMPs). In addition, HGF suppressed collagen synthesis and mRNA levels of procollagenalpha1(I) and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) in SSc fibroblasts. Expression of transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta1 was not inhibited significantly in SSc or control fibroblasts. Hepatocyte growth factor also increased interferon (IFN)-gamma mRNA significantly in SSc and control fibroblasts. Addition of anti-HGF antibody neutralized these effects of HGF on MMP-1 and collagen synthesis. The results suggest that HGF can suppress collagen accumulation in SSc fibroblasts by increasing MMP-1 levels possibly via activation of Ets-1 and also by decreasing collagen synthesis, which may be partly related to inhibition of CTGF, and increasing IFN-gamma levels rather than the effect on TGF-beta1. The present study indicates that HGF may be a promising therapeutic agent for this intractable disease.
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Matsuoka H, Sisson TH, Nishiuma T, Simon RH. Plasminogen-mediated activation and release of hepatocyte growth factor from extracellular matrix. Am J Respir Cell Mol Biol 2006; 35:705-13. [PMID: 16840775 PMCID: PMC2643296 DOI: 10.1165/rcmb.2006-0006oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Interventions that enhance plasminogen activation within the lung consistently limit the fibrosis that follows alveolar injury. However, this protective effect cannot be attributed solely to accelerated clearance of fibrin that forms as a provisional matrix after lung injury. To explore other mechanisms, we considered interactions between the plasminogen activation system and hepatocyte growth factor (HGF). HGF is known to have antifibrotic activity, but to do so, it must be both released from its sites of sequestration within extracellular matrix (ECM) and activated by proteolytic cleavage. A recent study using bleomycin-exposed mice showed that manipulations of the plasminogen activation system influenced the amount of free HGF within bronchoalveolar lavage fluid without affecting total lung HGF mRNA or protein. To elucidate the mechanisms, we studied the role of plasminogen activation in fibroblast-mediated HGF release and activation. We found that NIH3T3 and mouse lung fibroblasts release ECM-bound HGF in a plasminogen-dependent fashion. The plasminogen effect was lost when lung fibroblasts from urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA)-deficient mice were used, and was increased by fibroblasts from plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI)-1-deficient mice. Plasminogen addition to NIH3T3 or mouse lung fibroblasts increased conversion of pro-HGF to its active form. The plasminogen effect on activation was lost when uPA-deficient fibroblasts were used and accentuated by PAI-1-deficient fibroblasts. In conjunction with the previous in vivo study, these results suggest that plasminogen activation can protect the lung against fibrosis by increasing the availability of active HGF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroto Matsuoka
- Pulmonary/Critical Care Medicine Division, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Health Sciences Center, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
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25
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Hummers LK. Microvascular damage in systemic sclerosis: Detection and monitoring with biomarkers. Curr Rheumatol Rep 2006; 8:131-7. [PMID: 16569372 DOI: 10.1007/s11926-006-0053-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Vascular disease is universal in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc), but there is a wide variability in its severity. It is clear that there is an early insult to the microvasculature, followed-up by on-going chronic process. This results in profound vascular damage in a subset of patients who develop severe events such as digital loss and pulmonary arterial hypertension. Although there is abundant evidence of vascular perturbation from studies of peripheral blood in SSc, there are few data about the ability to use these biomarkers to predict vascular outcomes. This paper examines the possibility of using circulating biomarkers to assess vascular disease activity and to predict severe vascular events among patients with SSc.
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26
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Yamamoto T. The bleomycin-induced scleroderma model: what have we learned for scleroderma pathogenesis? Arch Dermatol Res 2006; 297:333-44. [PMID: 16402183 DOI: 10.1007/s00403-005-0635-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2005] [Revised: 12/09/2005] [Accepted: 12/13/2005] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Scleroderma is a fibrotic condition characterized by immunologic abnormalities, vascular injury and increased accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins in the skin. Although the etiology of scleroderma has not yet been fully elucidated, a growing body of evidence suggests that ECM overproduction by activated fibroblasts results from complex interactions among endothelial cells, lymphocytes, macrophages and fibroblasts, via a number of mediators, such as cytokines, chemokines and growth factors. For a better understanding of the pathophysiology of scleroderma, animal models are important tools. We established a murine model of cutaneous sclerosis by local treatment of bleomycin. This model reproduces several histological as well as biochemical aspects of human scleroderma. However, it must be emphasized that studying animal models cannot answer all the problems of human scleroderma. In this review, we introduce current insights into the pathogenesis of bleomycin-induced scleroderma, and discuss its contribution to our understanding of the pathogenesis of, and treatments for, human scleroderma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toshiyuki Yamamoto
- Department of Dermatology, Tokyo Medical University, 6-7-1 Nishi-shinjuku, 160-0023 Tokyo, Japan.
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Saika S, Ikeda K, Yamanaka O, Flanders KC, Nakajima Y, Miyamoto T, Ohnishi Y, Kao WWY, Muragaki Y, Ooshima A. Therapeutic effects of adenoviral gene transfer of bone morphogenic protein-7 on a corneal alkali injury model in mice. J Transl Med 2005; 85:474-86. [PMID: 15696184 DOI: 10.1038/labinvest.3700247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
An alkali burn in the cornea is a common serious clinical problem often leading to permanent visual impairment. Since transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) is involved in the response to corneal injury, we evaluated the therapeutic effects of adenoviral gene transfer of mouse bone morphogenic protein-7 (BMP-7), which has antagonistic effects on TGF-beta in tissue fibrosis. Burned cornea did not express endogenous BMP-7 mRNA and protein. Resurfacing of the burned cornea by invading conjunctival epithelium was accelerated by adenoviral introduction of BMP-7. Exogenous BMP-7 expression also suppressed myofibroblast generation, appearance of monocytes/macrophages and expression of MCP-1, TGF-betas, and collagen I alpha2 chain in the affected stroma. Ectopic BMP-7 did not suppress stromal neovascularization throughout the interval studied and also did not reduce VEGF mRNA expression at Day 10. Ectopic BMP-7 in burned corneal tissue resulted in activation of Smad1/5/8 signaling and partial suppression of the phospho-Smad2 signal. These data suggest that overexpression of BMP-7 is an effective strategy for treatment of ocular alkali burns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shizuya Saika
- Department of Ophthalmology, Wakayama Medical University, Kimiidera, Wakayama, Japan.
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Yamamoto T, Nishioka K. Cellular and molecular mechanisms of bleomycin-induced murine scleroderma: current update and future perspective. Exp Dermatol 2005; 14:81-95. [PMID: 15679577 DOI: 10.1111/j.0906-6705.2005.00280.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Scleroderma is a fibrotic condition characterized by immunologic abnormalities, vascular injury and increased accumulation of matrix proteins in the skin. Although the aetiology of scleroderma is not fully elucidated, a growing body of evidence suggests that extracellular matrix overproduction by activated fibroblasts results from complex interactions among endothelial cells, lymphocytes, macrophages and fibroblasts, via a number of mediators. Cytokines, chemokines and growth factors secreted by inflammatory cells and mesenchymal cells (fibroblasts and myofibroblasts) play an important role in the fibrotic process of scleroderma. Recently, we established a murine model of scleroderma by repeated local injections of bleomycin. Dermal sclerosis was induced in various mouse strains, although the intensity of dermal sclerosis varied among various strains. Histopathological and biochemical analysis demonstrated that this experimental murine scleroderma reflected a number of aspects of human scleroderma. Further investigation of the cellular and molecular mechanisms of inflammatory reaction, fibroblast activation and extracellular matrix deposition following dermal injury by bleomycin treatment will lead to the better understanding of the pathophysiology and the exploration of effective treatment against scleroderma. This review summarizes recent progress of the cellular and molecular events in the pathogenesis of bleomycin-induced scleroderma; moreover, further perspective by using this mouse model has been discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toshiyuki Yamamoto
- Department of Dermatology, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.
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Christner PJ, Jimenez SA. Animal models of systemic sclerosis: insights into systemic sclerosis pathogenesis and potential therapeutic approaches. Curr Opin Rheumatol 2004; 16:746-52. [PMID: 15577614 DOI: 10.1097/01.bor.0000137893.68929.86] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Animal models have been extremely valuable in contributing to a better understanding of the pathogenesis of systemic sclerosis. Discussed here are recent studies that have examined the molecular pathways and potential therapeutic approaches for systemic sclerosis using animal models. RECENT FINDINGS Reported evidence further indicates that the immune system plays a role in modulating the fibrosis observed in the tight skin-1/+ mouse model for systemic sclerosis. CD19, interleukin-6, and interleukin-4 are involved. The injection of spleen cells into immune-compromised mice resulted in fibrotic, vascular, and immunologic alterations quite similar to those of systemic sclerosis. Transforming growth factor-beta and its signaling pathway (JAK kinase and STAT-6, Smad2/3, and Smad7) appear to play a central role in the development of fibrosis as well as monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, CCR-2, platelet-derived growth factor C, and excessive apoptosis. Viruses were shown to be possible cofactors. The therapeutic agents hepatocyte growth factor and halofuginone were shown to prevent fibrosis in animal models of systemic sclerosis. SUMMARY The transforming growth factor-beta signaling pathway is a common mechanism of tissue fibrosis in animal models of systemic sclerosis, although numerous additional molecules modulate this pathway or have a direct effect on fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul J Christner
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Jefferson Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, 233 South 10th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
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