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Wang Y, Gou Y, Yuan R, Zou Q, Zhang X, Zheng T, Fei K, Shi R, Zhang M, Li Y, Gong Z, Luo C, Xiong Y, Shan D, Wei C, Shen L, Tang G, Li M, Zhu L, Li X, Jiang Y. A chromosome-level genome of Chenghua pig provides new insights into the domestication and local adaptation of pigs. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 270:131796. [PMID: 38677688 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.131796] [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: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024]
Abstract
As a country with abundant genetic resources of pigs, the domestication history of pigs in China and the adaptive evolution of Chinese pig breeds at different latitudes have rarely been elucidated at the genome-wide level. To fill this gap, we first assembled a high-quality chromosome-level genome of the Chenghua pig and used it as a benchmark to analyse the genomes of 272 samples from three genera of three continents. The divergence of the three species belonging to three genera, Phacochoerus africanus, Potamochoerus porcus, and Sus scrofa, was assessed. The introgression of pig breeds redefined that the migration routes were basically from southern China to central and southwestern China, then spread to eastern China, arrived in northern China, and finally reached Europe. The domestication of pigs in China occurred ∼12,000 years ago, earlier than the available Chinese archaeological domestication evidence. In addition, FBN1 and NR6A1 were identified in our study as candidate genes related to extreme skin thickness differences in Eurasian pig breeds and adaptive evolution at different latitudes in Chinese pig breeds, respectively. Our study provides a new resource for the pig genomic pool and refines our understanding of pig genetic diversity, domestication, migration, and adaptive evolution at different latitudes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifei Wang
- Department of Zoology, College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya'an, Sichuan 625014, China
| | - Yuwei Gou
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan 611130, China
| | - Rong Yuan
- Chengdu Livestock and Poultry Genetic Resources Protection Center, Chengdu, Sichuan 610081, China
| | - Qin Zou
- Department of Zoology, College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya'an, Sichuan 625014, China
| | - Xukun Zhang
- Academy for Engineering and Technology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Ting Zheng
- Department of Zoology, College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya'an, Sichuan 625014, China
| | - Kaixin Fei
- Department of Zoology, College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya'an, Sichuan 625014, China
| | - Rui Shi
- Department of Zoology, College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya'an, Sichuan 625014, China
| | - Mei Zhang
- Department of Zoology, College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya'an, Sichuan 625014, China
| | - Yujing Li
- Department of Zoology, College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya'an, Sichuan 625014, China
| | - Zhengyin Gong
- Department of Zoology, College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya'an, Sichuan 625014, China
| | - Chenggang Luo
- Chengdu Livestock and Poultry Genetic Resources Protection Center, Chengdu, Sichuan 610081, China
| | - Ying Xiong
- Department of Zoology, College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya'an, Sichuan 625014, China
| | - Dai Shan
- BGI Genomics, BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518083, China
| | - Chenyang Wei
- BGI Genomics, BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518083, China
| | - Linyuan Shen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan 611130, China
| | - Guoqing Tang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan 611130, China
| | - Mingzhou Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan 611130, China
| | - Li Zhu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan 611130, China
| | - Xuewei Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan 611130, China
| | - Yanzhi Jiang
- Department of Zoology, College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya'an, Sichuan 625014, China.
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2
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Liu C, Guo X, Wei M, Xie J, Zhang X, Qi Q, Zhu K. Identification and validation of autophagy-related genes in SSc. Open Med (Wars) 2024; 19:20240942. [PMID: 38584837 PMCID: PMC10998681 DOI: 10.1515/med-2024-0942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Multiple organs are affected by the complex autoimmune illness known as systemic sclerosis (SSc), which has a high fatality rate. Genes linked to autophagy have been linked to the aetiology of SSc. It is yet unknown, though, whether autophagy-related genes play a role in the aetiology of SSc. After using bioinformatics techniques to examine two databases (the GSE76885 and GSE95065 datasets) and autophagy-related genes, we were able to identify 12 autophagy-related differentially expressed genes that are linked to the pathophysiology of SSc. Additional examination of the receiver operating characteristic curve revealed that SFRP4 (AUC = 0.944, P < 0.001) and CD93 (AUC = 0.904, P < 0.001) might be utilized as trustworthy biomarkers for the diagnosis of SSc. The SSc group's considerably greater CD93 and SFRP4 expression levels compared to the control group were further confirmed by qRT-PCR results. The autophagy-related genes SFRP4 and CD93 were found to be viable diagnostic indicators in this investigation. Our research sheds light on the processes by which genes linked to autophagy affect the pathophysiology of SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Liu
- Department of Dermatology, Shenzhen People’s Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Xiaofang Guo
- The First Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Maoyun Wei
- Department of Dermatology, Second Hospital Affiliated to Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou510260, China
| | - Jiaxin Xie
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Xuting Zhang
- The First Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Qing Qi
- Department of Dermatology, Second Hospital Affiliated to Guangzhou Medical University, No. 250 Changgang Dong Road, Guangzhou510260, China
| | - Ke Zhu
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Airport Road No.16 Compound, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
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3
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Abraham D, Lescoat A, Stratton R. Emerging diagnostic and therapeutic challenges for skin fibrosis in systemic sclerosis. Mol Aspects Med 2024; 96:101252. [PMID: 38325132 DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2024.101252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (also called scleroderma, SSc) is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by excessive collagen deposition leading to skin fibrosis and various internal organ manifestations. The emergent diagnostics and therapeutic strategies for scleroderma focus on early detection and targeted interventions to improve patient outcomes and quality of life. Diagnostics for SSc have evolved significantly in recent years, driven by advancements in serological markers and imaging techniques. Autoantibody profiling, especially antinuclear antibodies (ANA) and specific scleroderma-associated autoantibodies, aids in identifying subsets of scleroderma and predicting disease progression. Furthermore, novel imaging modalities, such as high-frequency ultrasonography and optical coherence tomography, enable early detection of skin fibrosis and internal organ involvement, enhancing the diagnostic precision and allowing for tailored management. Therapeutic strategies for SSc are multifaceted, targeting immune dysregulation, vascular abnormalities, and fibrotic processes. Emerging biologic agents have shown promise in clinical trials, including monoclonal antibodies directed against key cytokines involved in fibrosis, such as transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) and interleukin-6 (IL-6). Additionally, small-molecule inhibitors that disrupt fibrotic pathways, like tyrosine kinase inhibitors, have exhibited potential in limiting collagen deposition and preventing disease progression. Stem cell therapy, cell ablation and gene editing techniques hold great potential in regenerating damaged tissue and halting fibrotic processes. Early intervention remains crucial in managing SSc, as irreversible tissue damage often occurs in advanced stages. Novel diagnostic methods, such as biomarkers and gene expression profiling, are being explored to identify individuals at high risk for developing progressive severe disease and intervene proactively. Furthermore, patient-tailored therapeutic approaches, employing a combination of immunosuppressive agents and targeted anti-fibrotic therapies, are being investigated to improve treatment efficacy while minimizing adverse effects. The emergent diagnostics and therapeutic strategies in scleroderma are transforming the management of this challenging disease. Nevertheless, ongoing research and clinical trials are needed to optimize the efficacy and safety of these novel approaches in the complex and diverse spectrum of SSc manifestations.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Abraham
- UCL Centre for Rheumatology, Royal Free Hospital, UCL Division of Medicine, Department of Inflammation, London, UK
| | - Alain Lescoat
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Immunology, Rennes University Hospital, Rennes, France
| | - Richard Stratton
- UCL Centre for Rheumatology, Royal Free Hospital, UCL Division of Medicine, Department of Inflammation, London, UK.
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4
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Rosenstein RK, Rose JJ, Brooks SR, Tsai WL, Gadina M, Pavletic SZ, Nagao K, Cowen EW. Identification of Fibroinflammatory and Fibrotic Transcriptomic Subsets of Human Cutaneous Sclerotic Chronic Graft-Versus-Host Disease. JID INNOVATIONS 2024; 4:100246. [PMID: 38357212 PMCID: PMC10864809 DOI: 10.1016/j.xjidi.2023.100246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Cutaneous sclerotic chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD) is a common and highly morbid complication of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Our goals were to identify signals active in the skin of patients with sclerotic cGVHD in an effort to better understand how to treat this manifestation and to explore the heterogeneity of the disease. We identified genes that are significantly upregulated in the skin of patients with sclerotic cGVHD (n = 17) compared with those in the skin of patients who underwent allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation without cutaneous cGVHD (n = 9) by bulk RNA sequencing. Sclerotic cGVHD was most associated with T helper 1, phagocytic, and fibrotic pathways. In addition, different transcriptomic groups of affected patients were discovered: those with fibrotic and inflammatory/T helper 1 gene expression (the fibroinflammatory group) and those with predominantly fibrotic/TGFβ-associated expression (the fibrotic group). Further study will help elucidate whether these gene expression findings can be used to tailor treatment decisions. Multiple proteins encoded by highly induced genes in the skin (SFRP4, SERPINE2, COMP) were also highly induced in the plasma of patients with sclerotic cGVHD (n = 16) compared with those in plasma of control patients who underwent allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation without sclerotic cGVHD (n = 17), suggesting these TGFβ and Wnt pathway mediators as candidate blood biomarkers of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel K. Rosenstein
- Center for Discovery and Innovation, Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, Nutley, New Jersey, USA
- Department of Medicine, Hackensack University Medical Center, Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, Nutley, New Jersey, USA
| | | | - Stephen R. Brooks
- Biodata Mining and Discovery Section, Office of Science and Technology, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Wanxia L. Tsai
- Translational Immunology Section, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Massimo Gadina
- Translational Immunology Section, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Steven Z. Pavletic
- Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Keisuke Nagao
- Cutaneous Leukocyte Biology Section, Dermatology Branch, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Edward W. Cowen
- Dermatology Branch, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
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5
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Li Y, Sun L, Chen R, Ni W, Liang Y, Zhang H, He C, Shi B, Petropoulos S, Zhao C, Shi L. Single-Cell Analysis Reveals Cxcl14 + Fibroblast Accumulation in Regenerating Diabetic Wounds Treated by Hydrogel-Delivering Carbon Monoxide. ACS CENTRAL SCIENCE 2024; 10:184-198. [PMID: 38292600 PMCID: PMC10823591 DOI: 10.1021/acscentsci.3c01169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
Nonhealing skin wounds are a problematic complication associated with diabetes. Therapeutic gases delivered by biomaterials have demonstrated powerful wound healing capabilities. However, the cellular responses and heterogeneity in the skin regeneration process after gas therapy remain elusive. Here, we display the benefit of the carbon monoxide (CO)-releasing hyaluronan hydrogel (CO@HAG) in promoting diabetic wound healing and investigate the cellular responses through single-cell transcriptomic analysis. The presented CO@HAG demonstrates wound microenvironment responsive gas releasing properties and accelerates the diabetic wound healing process in vivo. It is found that a new cluster of Cxcl14+ fibroblasts with progenitor property is accumulated in the CO@HAG-treated wound. This cluster of Cxcl14+ fibroblasts is yet unreported in the skin regeneration process. CO@HAG-treated wound macrophages feature a decrease in pro-inflammatory property, while their anti-inflammatory property increases. Moreover, the TGF-β signal between the pro-inflammatory (M1) macrophage and the Cxcl14+ fibroblast in the CO@HAG-treated wound is attenuated based on cell-cell interaction analysis. Our study provides a useful hydrogel-mediated gas therapy method for diabetic wounds and new insights into cellular events in the skin regeneration process after gas-releasing biomaterials therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya Li
- State
Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Biology, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China
| | - Lu Sun
- State
Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Biology, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China
| | - Ranxi Chen
- State
Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Biology, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China
| | - Wenpeng Ni
- College of
Materials Science and Engineering, Hunan
University, Changsha 410082, China
| | - Yuyun Liang
- State
Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Biology, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China
| | - Hexu Zhang
- State
Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Biology, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China
| | - Chaoyong He
- State
Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Biology, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China
| | - Bi Shi
- State
Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Biology, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China
| | - Sophie Petropoulos
- Department
of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Division of Obstetrics
and Gynecology, Karolinska Institutet, 14186 Stockholm, Sweden
- Département
de Médecine, Université de
Montréal, Montreal Canada, Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier
de l’Université de Montréal, Axe Immunopathologie, H2X 19A 708 Montreal Canada
| | - Cheng Zhao
- Department
of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Division of Obstetrics
and Gynecology, Karolinska Institutet, 14186 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Liyang Shi
- State
Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Biology, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China
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6
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He J, Cheng X, Fang B, Shan S, Li Q. Mechanical stiffness promotes skin fibrosis via Piezo1-Wnt2/Wnt11-CCL24 positive feedback loop. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:84. [PMID: 38267432 PMCID: PMC10808102 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06466-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
Skin fibrosis is characterized by the excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) caused by fibrotic disorders of the skin. In recent years, ECM stiffness has emerged as a prominent mechanical cue that precedes skin fibrosis and drives its progression by promoting fibroblasts activation. However, how stiffness influences fibroblasts activation for skin fibrosis progression remains unknown. Here, we report a positive feedback loop mediated by the mechanosensitive ion channel Piezo1 and aberrant tissue mechanics in driving skin fibrosis. Piezo1 is upregulated in fibrotic skin in both humans and mice. Piezo1 knockdown dermal fibroblasts lose their fibroproliferative phenotypes despite being grown on a stiffer substrate. We show that Piezo1 acts through the Wnt2/Wnt11 pathway to mechanically induce secretion of C-C motif chemokine ligand 24 (CCL24, also known as eotaxin-2), a potent cytokine associated with fibrotic disorders. Importantly, adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated Piezo1 knockdown ameliorated the progression of skin fibrosis and skin stiffness in mice. Overall, increased matrix stiffness promotes skin fibrosis through the inflammatory Piezo1-Wnt2/Wnt11-CCL24 pathway. In turn, a stiffer skin microenvironment increases Piezo1 expression to exacerbate skin fibrosis aggression. Therefore, targeting Piezo1 represents a strategy to break the positive feedback loop between fibroblasts mechanotransduction and aberrant tissue mechanics in skin fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiahao He
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 200011, Shanghai, China
| | - Xinwei Cheng
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 200011, Shanghai, China
| | - Bin Fang
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 200011, Shanghai, China.
| | - Shengzhou Shan
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 200011, Shanghai, China.
| | - Qingfeng Li
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 200011, Shanghai, China.
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7
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Ma F, Tsou PS, Gharaee-Kermani M, Plazyo O, Xing X, Kirma J, Wasikowski R, Hile GA, Harms PW, Jiang Y, Xing E, Nakamura M, Ochocki D, Brodie WD, Pillai S, Maverakis E, Pellegrini M, Modlin RL, Varga J, Tsoi LC, Lafyatis R, Kahlenberg JM, Billi AC, Khanna D, Gudjonsson JE. Systems-based identification of the Hippo pathway for promoting fibrotic mesenchymal differentiation in systemic sclerosis. Nat Commun 2024; 15:210. [PMID: 38172207 PMCID: PMC10764940 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-44645-6] [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: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a devastating autoimmune disease characterized by excessive production and accumulation of extracellular matrix, leading to fibrosis of skin and other internal organs. However, the main cellular participants in SSc skin fibrosis remain incompletely understood. Here using differentiation trajectories at a single cell level, we demonstrate a dual source of extracellular matrix deposition in SSc skin from both myofibroblasts and endothelial-to-mesenchymal-transitioning cells (EndoMT). We further define a central role of Hippo pathway effectors in differentiation and homeostasis of myofibroblast and EndoMT, respectively, and show that myofibroblasts and EndoMTs function as central communication hubs that drive key pro-fibrotic signaling pathways in SSc. Together, our data help characterize myofibroblast differentiation and EndoMT phenotypes in SSc skin, and hint that modulation of the Hippo pathway may contribute in reversing the pro-fibrotic phenotypes in myofibroblasts and EndoMTs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feiyang Ma
- Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Division of Rheumatology, Dept of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Pei-Suen Tsou
- Division of Rheumatology, Dept of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- University of Michigan Scleroderma Program, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Mehrnaz Gharaee-Kermani
- Division of Rheumatology, Dept of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Olesya Plazyo
- Division of Rheumatology, Dept of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Xianying Xing
- Division of Rheumatology, Dept of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Joseph Kirma
- Division of Rheumatology, Dept of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Rachael Wasikowski
- Division of Rheumatology, Dept of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Grace A Hile
- Division of Rheumatology, Dept of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Paul W Harms
- Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Yanyun Jiang
- Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Enze Xing
- Division of Rheumatology, Dept of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Mio Nakamura
- Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Danielle Ochocki
- Division of Rheumatology, Dept of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- University of Michigan Scleroderma Program, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - William D Brodie
- Division of Rheumatology, Dept of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Shiv Pillai
- Ragon Institute, Massachusetts General Hospital, Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Emanual Maverakis
- Department of Dermatology, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Matteo Pellegrini
- Dept of Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Robert L Modlin
- Dept of Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - John Varga
- Division of Rheumatology, Dept of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- University of Michigan Scleroderma Program, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Lam C Tsoi
- Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Robert Lafyatis
- Division of Rheumatology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - J Michelle Kahlenberg
- Division of Rheumatology, Dept of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Allison C Billi
- Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Dinesh Khanna
- Division of Rheumatology, Dept of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
- University of Michigan Scleroderma Program, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
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8
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Bai R, Guo Y, Liu W, Song Y, Yu Z, Ma X. The Roles of WNT Signaling Pathways in Skin Development and Mechanical-Stretch-Induced Skin Regeneration. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1702. [PMID: 38136575 PMCID: PMC10741662 DOI: 10.3390/biom13121702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The WNT signaling pathway plays a critical role in a variety of biological processes, including development, adult tissue homeostasis maintenance, and stem cell regulation. Variations in skin conditions can influence the expression of the WNT signaling pathway. In light of the above, a deeper understanding of the specific mechanisms of the WNT signaling pathway in different physiological and pathological states of the skin holds the potential to significantly advance clinical treatments of skin-related diseases. In this review, we present a comprehensive analysis of the molecular and cellular mechanisms of the WNT signaling pathway in skin development, wound healing, and mechanical stretching. Our review sheds new light on the crucial role of the WNT signaling pathway in the regulation of skin physiology and pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruoxue Bai
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China
| | - Yaotao Guo
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China
- Department of The Cadet Team 6, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China
| | - Wei Liu
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China
| | - Yajuan Song
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China
| | - Zhou Yu
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China
| | - Xianjie Ma
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China
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9
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Saracino AM, Kelberman D, Otto GW, Gagunashvili A, Abraham DJ, Denton CP. Unravelling morphoea aetiopathogenesis by next-generation sequencing of paired skin biopsies. Arch Dermatol Res 2023; 315:2035-2056. [PMID: 36912952 PMCID: PMC10366313 DOI: 10.1007/s00403-023-02541-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Morphoea can have a significant disease burden. Aetiopathogenesis remains poorly understood, with very limited existing genetic studies. Linear morphoea (LM) may follow Blascho's lines of epidermal development, providing potential pathogenic clues. OBJECTIVE The first objective of this study was to identify the presence of primary somatic epidermal mosaicism in LM. The second objective was tTo explore differential gene expression in morphoea epidermis and dermis to identify potential pathogenic molecular pathways and tissue layer cross-talk. METHODOLOGY Skin biopsies from paired affected and contralateral unaffected skin were taken from 16 patients with LM. Epidermis and dermis were isolated using a 2-step chemical-physical separation protocol. Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS; n = 4 epidermal) and RNA-seq (n = 5-epidermal, n = 5-dermal) with gene expression analysis via GSEA-MSigDBv6.3 and PANTHER-v14.1 pathway analyses, were performed. RTqPCR and immunohistochemistry were used to replicate key results. RESULTS Sixteen participants (93.8% female, mean age 27.7 yrs disease-onset) were included. Epidermal WGS identified no single affected gene or SNV. However, many potential disease-relevant pathogenic variants were present, including ADAMTSL1 and ADAMTS16. A highly proliferative, inflammatory and profibrotic epidermis was seen, with significantly-overexpressed TNFα-via-NFkB, TGFβ, IL6/JAKSTAT and IFN-signaling, apoptosis, p53 and KRAS-responses. Upregulated IFI27 and downregulated LAMA4 potentially represent initiating epidermal 'damage' signals and enhanced epidermal-dermal communication. Morphoea dermis exhibited significant profibrotic, B-cell and IFN-signatures, and upregulated morphogenic patterning pathways such as Wnt. CONCLUSION This study supports the absence of somatic epidermal mosaicism in LM, and identifies potential disease-driving epidermal mechanisms, epidermal-dermal interactions and disease-specific dermal differential-gene-expression in morphoea. We propose a potential molecular narrative for morphoea aetiopathogenesis which could help guide future targeted studies and therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda M Saracino
- Division of Medicine, Centre for Rheumatology and Connective Tissues Diseases, University College London, London, UK.
- Department of Dermatology, Royal Free NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.
- Melbourne Dermatology Clinic, 258 Park Street, South Melbourne, VIC, 3205, Australia.
| | - Daniel Kelberman
- GOSgene, Genetics and Genomic Medicine, Great Ormand Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Georg W Otto
- GOSgene, Genetics and Genomic Medicine, Great Ormand Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Andrey Gagunashvili
- GOSgene, Genetics and Genomic Medicine, Great Ormand Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - David J Abraham
- Division of Medicine, Centre for Rheumatology and Connective Tissues Diseases, University College London, London, UK
| | - Christopher P Denton
- Division of Medicine, Centre for Rheumatology and Connective Tissues Diseases, University College London, London, UK
- Department of Rheumatology, Royal Free NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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10
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Ham SM, Song MJ, Yoon HS, Lee DH, Chung JH, Lee ST. SPARC Is Highly Expressed in Young Skin and Promotes Extracellular Matrix Integrity in Fibroblasts via the TGF-β Signaling Pathway. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12179. [PMID: 37569556 PMCID: PMC10419001 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241512179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The matricellular secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine (SPARC; also known as osteonectin), is involved in the regulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) synthesis, cell-ECM interactions, and bone mineralization. We found decreased SPARC expression in aged skin. Incubating foreskin fibroblasts with recombinant human SPARC led to increased type I collagen production and decreased matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) secretion at the protein and mRNA levels. In a three-dimensional culture of foreskin fibroblasts mimicking the dermis, SPARC significantly increased the synthesis of type I collagen and decreased its degradation. In addition, SPARC also induced receptor-regulated SMAD (R-SMAD) phosphorylation. An inhibitor of transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) receptor type 1 reversed the SPARC-induced increase in type I collagen and decrease in MMP-1, and decreased SPARC-induced R-SMAD phosphorylation. Transcriptome analysis revealed that SPARC modulated expression of genes involved in ECM synthesis and regulation in fibroblasts. RT-qPCR confirmed that a subset of differentially expressed genes is induced by SPARC. These results indicated that SPARC enhanced ECM integrity by activating the TGF-β signaling pathway in fibroblasts. We inferred that the decline in SPARC expression in aged skin contributes to process of skin aging by negatively affecting ECM integrity in fibroblasts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seung Min Ham
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea;
| | - Min Ji Song
- Department of Dermatology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea; (M.J.S.); (H.-S.Y.); (D.H.L.); (J.H.C.)
- Laboratory of Cutaneous Aging Research, Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Human-Environment Interface Biology, Seoul National University, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun-Sun Yoon
- Department of Dermatology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea; (M.J.S.); (H.-S.Y.); (D.H.L.); (J.H.C.)
- Laboratory of Cutaneous Aging Research, Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Human-Environment Interface Biology, Seoul National University, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
- Department of Dermatology, Seoul National University Boramae Hospital, Seoul 07061, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong Hun Lee
- Department of Dermatology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea; (M.J.S.); (H.-S.Y.); (D.H.L.); (J.H.C.)
- Laboratory of Cutaneous Aging Research, Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Human-Environment Interface Biology, Seoul National University, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Ho Chung
- Department of Dermatology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea; (M.J.S.); (H.-S.Y.); (D.H.L.); (J.H.C.)
- Laboratory of Cutaneous Aging Research, Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Human-Environment Interface Biology, Seoul National University, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
- Institute on Aging, Seoul National University, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung-Taek Lee
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea;
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11
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Maylem ERS, Spicer LJ, Batalha IM, Schütz LF. Developmental and hormonal regulation of FBN1 and OR4M1 mRNA in bovine granulosa cells. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2023; 84-85:106791. [PMID: 37167929 PMCID: PMC10523934 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2023.106791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2023] [Revised: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Recent studies have reported hormonal regulation of expression of fibrillin 1 (FBN1), the gene that encodes asprosin, in bovine theca cells, however, hormonal regulation of gene expression of FBN1 and the asprosin receptor, olfactory receptor 4M1 (OR4M1), has not been evaluated in granulosa cells (GC). This study was designed to characterize FBN1 and OR4M1 gene expression in GC during development of bovine dominant ovarian follicles, and to determine the hormonal regulation of FBN1 and OR4M1 mRNA expression in GC. GC FBN1 mRNA abundance was greater (P < 0.05) in medium (5.1-8 mm) estrogen inactive (EI) follicles than in large (>8.1 mm) or small (1-5 mm) EI follicles. In comparison, GC OR4M1 mRNA abundance was greater (P < 0.05) in small EI follicles than in large or medium EI follicles. Abundance of OR4M1 mRNA in GC of follicles collected on days 3 to 4 (early growth phase) and on days 5 to 6 (late growth phase) was similar, whereas FBN1 mRNA abundance was greater (P < 0.05) on days 5 to 6 vs days 3 to 4. Hormonal regulators for FBN1 mRNA abundance in cultured small-follicle GC were identified: TGFβ1 causing a 2.45-fold increase, WNT3A causing a 1.45-fold increase, and IGF1 causing a 65% decrease. Steroids, leptin, insulin, growth hormone, follicle stimulating hormone, fibroblast growth factor 9 and epidermal growth factor had no effect on FBN1 mRNA abundance. Abundance of OR4M1 mRNA in GC was regulated by progesterone with 3.55-fold increase, but other hormones did not affect GC OR4M1 mRNA abundance. Findings indicate that both FBN1 and OR4M1 gene expression are hormonally and developmentally regulated in bovine follicles, and thus may affect asprosin production and its subsequent role in ovarian follicular function in cattle.
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Affiliation(s)
- E R S Maylem
- Department of Animal and Food Sciences, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA,; Philippine Carabao Center, National Headquarters and Gene Pool, Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija, Philippines
| | - L J Spicer
- Department of Animal and Food Sciences, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA,.
| | - I M Batalha
- Departament of Agriculture, Veterinary, and Rangeland Sciences, University of Nevada, Reno, NV 89557, USA
| | - L F Schütz
- Departament of Agriculture, Veterinary, and Rangeland Sciences, University of Nevada, Reno, NV 89557, USA
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12
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Dong CX, Malecki C, Robertson E, Hambly B, Jeremy R. Molecular Mechanisms in Genetic Aortopathy-Signaling Pathways and Potential Interventions. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24021795. [PMID: 36675309 PMCID: PMC9865322 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24021795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Thoracic aortic disease affects people of all ages and the majority of those aged <60 years have an underlying genetic cause. There is presently no effective medical therapy for thoracic aneurysm and surgery remains the principal intervention. Unlike abdominal aortic aneurysm, for which the inflammatory/atherosclerotic pathogenesis is well established, the mechanism of thoracic aneurysm is less understood. This paper examines the key cell signaling systems responsible for the growth and development of the aorta, homeostasis of endothelial and vascular smooth muscle cells and interactions between pathways. The evidence supporting a role for individual signaling pathways in pathogenesis of thoracic aortic aneurysm is examined and potential novel therapeutic approaches are reviewed. Several key signaling pathways, notably TGF-β, WNT, NOTCH, PI3K/AKT and ANGII contribute to growth, proliferation, cell phenotype and survival for both vascular smooth muscle and endothelial cells. There is crosstalk between pathways, and between vascular smooth muscle and endothelial cells, with both synergistic and antagonistic interactions. A common feature of the activation of each is response to injury or abnormal cell stress. Considerable experimental evidence supports a contribution of each of these pathways to aneurysm formation. Although human information is less, there is sufficient data to implicate each pathway in the pathogenesis of human thoracic aneurysm. As some pathways i.e., WNT and NOTCH, play key roles in tissue growth and organogenesis in early life, it is possible that dysregulation of these pathways results in an abnormal aortic architecture even in infancy, thereby setting the stage for aneurysm development in later life. Given the fine tuning of these signaling systems, functional polymorphisms in key signaling elements may set up a future risk of thoracic aneurysm. Multiple novel therapeutic agents have been developed, targeting cell signaling pathways, predominantly in cancer medicine. Future investigations addressing cell specific targeting, reduced toxicity and also less intense treatment effects may hold promise for effective new medical treatments of thoracic aortic aneurysm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Xue Dong
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Cassandra Malecki
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
- The Baird Institute, Camperdown, NSW 2042, Australia
| | - Elizabeth Robertson
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Brett Hambly
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Richmond Jeremy
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
- The Baird Institute, Camperdown, NSW 2042, Australia
- Correspondence:
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13
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Roa Fuentes LA, Bloemen M, Carels CE, Wagener FA, Von den Hoff JW. Retinoic acid effects on in vitro palatal fusion and WNT signaling. Eur J Oral Sci 2022; 130:e12899. [PMID: 36303276 PMCID: PMC10092745 DOI: 10.1111/eos.12899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Retinoic acid is the main active vitamin A derivate and a key regulator of embryonic development. Excess of retinoic acid can disturb palate development in mice leading to cleft palate. WNT signaling is one of the main pathways in palate development. We evaluated the effects of retinoic acid on palate fusion and WNT signaling in in vitro explant cultures. Unfused palates from E13.5 mouse embryos were cultured for 4 days with 0.5 μM, 2 μM or without retinoic acid. Apoptosis, proliferation, WNT signaling and bone formation were analyzed by histology and quantitative PCR. Retinoic acid treatment with 0.5 and 2.0 μM reduced palate fusion from 84% (SD 6.8%) in the controls to 56% (SD 26%) and 16% (SD 19%), respectively. Additionally, 2 μM retinoic acid treatment increased Axin2 expression. Retinoic acid also increased the proliferation marker Pcna as well as the number of Ki-67-positive cells in the palate epithelium. At the same time, the WNT inhibitors Dkk1, Dkk3, Wif1 and Sfrp1 were downregulated at least two-fold. Retinoic acid also down-regulated Alpl and Col1a2 gene expression. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity was notably reduced in the osteogenic areas of the retinoic acid- treated palates. Our data suggest that retinoic acid impairs palate fusion and bone formation by upregulation of WNT signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laury Amelia Roa Fuentes
- Department of Orthodontics and Craniofacial Biology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud university medical center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,MERLN Institute for Technology-Inspired Regenerative Medicine, Department of Instructive Biomaterial Engineering (IBE), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Marjon Bloemen
- Department of Orthodontics and Craniofacial Biology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud university medical center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Carine El Carels
- Department of Human Genetics, KU University Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Frank Adtg Wagener
- Department of Orthodontics and Craniofacial Biology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud university medical center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Johannes W Von den Hoff
- Department of Orthodontics and Craniofacial Biology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud university medical center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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14
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Bao Z, Zhai P, Yao F, Ren Y, Zhao B, Chen Y, Wu X. Characterization and functional analysis of
lncRNA2690
in regulating the growth cycle of the hair follicle in rabbits. Anim Genet 2022; 53:841-848. [DOI: 10.1111/age.13254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Zhiyuan Bao
- College of Animal Science and Technology Yangzhou University Yangzhou Jiangsu China
| | - Pin Zhai
- Institute of Animal Science Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences Yangzhou Jiangsu China
| | - Fan Yao
- College of Animal Science and Technology Yangzhou University Yangzhou Jiangsu China
| | - Yuyao Ren
- College of Animal Science and Technology Yangzhou University Yangzhou Jiangsu China
| | - Bohao Zhao
- College of Animal Science and Technology Yangzhou University Yangzhou Jiangsu China
| | - Yang Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology Yangzhou University Yangzhou Jiangsu China
| | - Xinsheng Wu
- College of Animal Science and Technology Yangzhou University Yangzhou Jiangsu China
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15
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Zhao B, Li J, Liu M, Yang N, Bao Z, Zhang X, Dai Y, Cai J, Chen Y, Wu X. DNA Methylation Mediates lncRNA2919 Regulation of Hair Follicle Regeneration. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23169481. [PMID: 36012763 PMCID: PMC9408817 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23169481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Revised: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Hair follicles (HFs) are organs that periodically regenerate during the growth and development of mammals. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are non-coding RNAs with crucial roles in many biological processes. Our previous study identified that lncRNA2919 is highly expressed in catagen during the HF cycle. In this study, the in vivo rabbit model was established using intradermal injection of adenovirus-mediated lncRNA2919. The results showed that lncRNA2919 decreased HF depth and density and contributed to HF regrowth, thereby indicating that lncRNA2919 plays a negative role in HF regeneration. Moreover, methylation levels of the lncRNA2919 promoter at different HF cycle stages were detected through bisulfite sequencing. The key CpG site that negatively correlates with lncRNA2919 expression during the HF cycle was identified. 5-Aza-dc-induced demethylation upregulated lncRNA2919 expression, and the core promoter region of lncRNA2919 was verified on the basis of luciferase activity. Furthermore, we found that DNA methylation could prevent the binding of EGR1 to the lncRNA2919 promoter region, thereby affecting the transcriptional expression of lncRNA2919. Collectively, DNA methylation inhibits the transcriptional expression of lncRNA2919, which plays a vital role in the HF cycle and HF regrowth. These findings contribute to the basic theory of epigenetics in HF biology and provide references for further research in HF disease treatment and animal wool production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bohao Zhao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Jiali Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Ming Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Naisu Yang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Zhiyuan Bao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Xiyu Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Yingying Dai
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Jiawei Cai
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Yang Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
- Correspondence: (Y.C.); (X.W.)
| | - Xinsheng Wu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture & Agri-Product Safety, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
- Correspondence: (Y.C.); (X.W.)
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16
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lncRNA2919 Suppresses Rabbit Dermal Papilla Cell Proliferation via trans-Regulatory Actions. Cells 2022; 11:cells11152443. [PMID: 35954286 PMCID: PMC9368379 DOI: 10.3390/cells11152443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2022] [Revised: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Hair follicles (HFs) are complex organs that grow cyclically during mammals' growth and development. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) cannot be translated into proteins and play crucial roles in many biological processes. In our previous study, candidate lncRNAs associated with HF cyclic regeneration were screened, and we identified that the novel lncRNA, lncRNA2919, was significantly expressed during catagen. Here, we identified that lncRNA2919 has no coding potentiality and is highly expressed in the cell nucleus, and downregulates HF growth and development-related genes, inhibits cell proliferation, and promotes cell apoptosis in rabbit dermal papilla cells. lncRNA2919 recruits STAT1 to form a compound. As a key transcription factor, STAT1 regulates the transcriptional expression of KRTAP11-1. Our study revealed that lncRNA2919 is involved in HF cyclic regeneration through the trans-regulatory lncRNA2919-STAT1-KRTAP11-1 axis. This study elucidates the mechanism through which lncRNA2919 regulates HF growth and development and the role of lncRNA2919 as a new therapeutic target in animal wool production and human hair-related disease treatment.
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17
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Tiboni M, Elmowafy E, El-Derany MO, Benedetti S, Campana R, Verboni M, Potenza L, Palma F, Citterio B, Sisti M, Duranti A, Lucarini S, Soliman ME, Casettari L. A combination of sugar esters and chitosan to promote in vivo wound care. Int J Pharm 2022; 616:121508. [PMID: 35123002 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2022.121508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, researchers are exploring innovative green materials fabricated from renewable natural substances to meet formulation needs. Among them, biopolymers like chitosans and biosurfactants such as sugar fatty acid esters are of potential interest due to their biocompatibility, biodegradability, functionality, and cost-effectiveness. Both classes of biocompounds possess the ability to be efficiently employed in wound dressing to help physiological wound healing, which is a bioprocess involving uncontrolled oxidative damage and inflammation, with an associated high risk of infection. In this work, we synthesized two different sugar esters (i.e., lactose linoleate and lactose linolenate) that, in combination with chitosan and sucrose laurate, were evaluated in vitro for their cytocompatibility, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial activities and in vivo as wound care agents. Emphasis on Wnt/β-catenin associated machineries was also set. The newly designed lactose esters, sucrose ester, and chitosan possessed sole biological attributes, entailing considerable blending for convenient formulation of wound care products. In particular, the mixture composed of sucrose laurate (200 µM), lactose linoleate (100 µM), and chitosan (1%) assured its superiority in terms of efficient wound healing prospects in vivo together with the restoring of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, compared with the marketed wound healing product (Healosol®), and single components as well. This innovative combination of biomaterials applied as wound dressing could effectively break new ground in skin wound care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mattia Tiboni
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Piazza del Rinascimento, 6, 61029 Urbino (PU), Italy
| | - Enas Elmowafy
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Industrial Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Monazzamet Elwehda Elafrikeya Street, Abbaseyya, Cairo 11566, Egypt
| | - Marwa O El-Derany
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Monazzamet Elwehda Elafrikeya Street, Abbaseyya, Cairo 11566, Egypt
| | - Serena Benedetti
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Piazza del Rinascimento, 6, 61029 Urbino (PU), Italy
| | - Raffaella Campana
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Piazza del Rinascimento, 6, 61029 Urbino (PU), Italy
| | - Michele Verboni
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Piazza del Rinascimento, 6, 61029 Urbino (PU), Italy
| | - Lucia Potenza
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Piazza del Rinascimento, 6, 61029 Urbino (PU), Italy
| | - Francesco Palma
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Piazza del Rinascimento, 6, 61029 Urbino (PU), Italy
| | - Barbara Citterio
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Piazza del Rinascimento, 6, 61029 Urbino (PU), Italy
| | - Maurizio Sisti
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Piazza del Rinascimento, 6, 61029 Urbino (PU), Italy
| | - Andrea Duranti
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Piazza del Rinascimento, 6, 61029 Urbino (PU), Italy
| | - Simone Lucarini
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Piazza del Rinascimento, 6, 61029 Urbino (PU), Italy
| | - Mahmoud E Soliman
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Industrial Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Monazzamet Elwehda Elafrikeya Street, Abbaseyya, Cairo 11566, Egypt; Egypt-Japan University of Science and Technology (EJUST), New Borg El Arab, Alexandria 21934, Egypt
| | - Luca Casettari
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Piazza del Rinascimento, 6, 61029 Urbino (PU), Italy.
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18
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Jamerson TA, Talbot CC, Dina Y, Kwatra SG, Garza LA, Aguh C. Gene expression profiling suggests severe, extensive central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia may be both clinically and biologically distinct from limited disease subtypes. Exp Dermatol 2022; 31:789-793. [PMID: 35007355 DOI: 10.1111/exd.14524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Revised: 12/24/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The natural history of central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia (CCCA) is widely variable. Some patients experience rapid progression to extensive, end-stage disease while others never approach extensive involvement over decades, suggesting heterogeneity in CCCA disease phenotype. To better characterize clinically severe disease in CCCA, tissue samples were obtained from the peripheral, hair bearing lesional scalp of women with clinically focal, limited, and extensive CCCA disease involvement. A microarray analysis was conducted to identify differential expression of genes previously identified to be preferentially expressed in the lesional scalp vs non-lesional scalp of CCCA patients. Clinically extensive, severe CCCA was characterized by increased expression of MMP9, SFRP4, and MSR1 when directly compared with focal and limited disease. These biomarkers correspond to dysregulated pathways of fibrosis, Wnt signaling, and macrophage-mediated inflammatory processes, respectively. These findings hold significance for both possible targets for future study of prognostic markers of disease severity and new potential therapeutic targets. In summary, this study suggests clinically extensive, severe CCCA may have a differential gene expression pattern in the lesional scalp of affected patients, in addition to its clinical distinction.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - C Conover Talbot
- Johns Hopkins Medical Institute Single Cell & Transcriptomics Core, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Yemisi Dina
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Shawn G Kwatra
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Luis A Garza
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Crystal Aguh
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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19
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Yin C, Ye Z, Wu J, Huang C, Pan L, Ding H, Zhong L, Guo L, Zou Y, Wang X, Wang Y, Gao P, Jin X, Yan X, Zou Y, Huang R, Gong H. Elevated Wnt2 and Wnt4 activate NF-κB signaling to promote cardiac fibrosis by cooperation of Fzd4/2 and LRP6 following myocardial infarction. EBioMedicine 2021; 74:103745. [PMID: 34911029 PMCID: PMC8669316 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2021.103745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2021] [Revised: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Acute myocardial infarction (AMI)-induced excessive myocardial fibrosis exaggerates cardiac dysfunction. However, serum Wnt2 or Wnt4 level in AMI patients, and the roles in cardiac fibrosis are largely unkown. Methods AMI and non-AMI patients were enrolled to examine serum Wnt2 and Wnt4 levels by ELISA analysis. The AMI patients were followed-up for one year. MI mouse model was built by ligation of left anterior descending branch (LAD). Findings Serum Wnt2 or Wnt4 level was increased in patients with AMI, and the elevated Wnt2 and Wnt4 were correlated to adverse outcome of these patients. Knockdown of Wnt2 and Wnt4 significantly attenuated myocardial remodeling and cardiac dysfunction following experimental MI. In vitro, hypoxia enhanced the secretion and expression of Wnt2 and Wnt4 in neonatal rat cardiac myocytes (NRCMs) or fibroblasts (NRCFs). Mechanistically, the elevated Wnt2 or Wnt4 activated β-catenin /NF-κB signaling to promote pro-fibrotic effects in cultured NRCFs. In addition, Wnt2 or Wnt4 upregulated the expression of these Wnt co-receptors, frizzled (Fzd) 2, Fzd4 and (ow-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 6 (LRP6). Further analysis revealed that Wnt2 or Wnt4 activated β-catenin /NF-κB by the co-operation of Fzd4 or Fzd2 and LRP6 signaling, respectively. Interpretation Elevated Wnt2 and Wnt4 activate β-catenin/NF-κB signaling to promote cardiac fibrosis by cooperation of Fzd4/2 and LRP6 in fibroblasts, which contributes to adverse outcome of patients with AMI, suggesting that systemic inhibition of Wnt2 and Wnt4 may improve cardiac dysfunction after MI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Yin
- NHC Key Laboratory of Viral Heart Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital, and Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Zhishuai Ye
- Department of Cardiology, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100053, China
| | - Jian Wu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Viral Heart Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital, and Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Chenxing Huang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Viral Heart Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital, and Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Le Pan
- NHC Key Laboratory of Viral Heart Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital, and Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Huaiyu Ding
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116011, China
| | - Lei Zhong
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116011, China
| | - Lei Guo
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116011, China
| | - Yan Zou
- NHC Key Laboratory of Viral Heart Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital, and Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Xiang Wang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Viral Heart Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital, and Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Ying Wang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Viral Heart Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital, and Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Pan Gao
- NHC Key Laboratory of Viral Heart Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital, and Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Xuejuan Jin
- NHC Key Laboratory of Viral Heart Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital, and Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Xiaoxiang Yan
- Department of Vascular and Cardiology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yunzeng Zou
- NHC Key Laboratory of Viral Heart Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital, and Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Rongchong Huang
- Department of Cardiology, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100053, China.
| | - Hui Gong
- NHC Key Laboratory of Viral Heart Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital, and Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.
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SFRP4 Expression Is Linked to Immune-Driven Fibrotic Conditions, Correlates with Skin and Lung Fibrosis in SSc and a Potential EMT Biomarker. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10245820. [PMID: 34945116 PMCID: PMC8706846 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10245820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Revised: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Secreted Frizzled Receptor Protein 4 (SFRP4) has been shown to be increased in Scleroderma (SSc). To determine its role in immune-driven fibrosis, we analysed SSc and sclerotic Chronic Graft Versus Host Disease (sclGVHD) biosamples; skin biopsies (n = 24) from chronic GVHD patients (8 with and 5 without sclGVHD), 8 from SSc and 3 healthy controls (HC) were analysed by immunofluorescence (IF) and SSc patient sera (n = 77) assessed by ELISA. Epithelial cell lines used for in vitro Epithelial-Mesenchymal-Transition (EMT) assays and analysed by Western Blot, RT-PCR and immunofluorescence. SclGVHD skin biopsies resembled pathologic features of SSc. IF of fibrotic skin biopsies indicated the major source of SFRP4 expression were dermal fibroblasts, melanocytes and vimentin positive/caveolin-1 negative cells in the basal layer of the epidermis. In vitro studies showed increased vimentin and SFRP4 expression accompanied with decreased caveolin-1 expression during TGFβ-induced EMT. Additionally, SFRP4 serum concentration correlated with severity of lung and skin fibrosis in SSc. In conclusion, SFRP4 expression is increased during skin fibrosis in two different immune-driven conditions, and during an in vitro EMT model. Its serum levels correlate with skin and lung fibrosis in SSc and may function as biomarker of EMT. Further studies are warranted to elucidate the role of SFRP4 in EMT within the pathogenesis of tissue fibrosis.
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21
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Tabib T, Huang M, Morse N, Papazoglou A, Behera R, Jia M, Bulik M, Monier DE, Benos PV, Chen W, Domsic R, Lafyatis R. Myofibroblast transcriptome indicates SFRP2 hi fibroblast progenitors in systemic sclerosis skin. Nat Commun 2021; 12:4384. [PMID: 34282151 PMCID: PMC8289865 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-24607-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2019] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Skin and lung fibrosis in systemic sclerosis (SSc) is driven by myofibroblasts, alpha-smooth muscle actin expressing cells. The number of myofibroblasts in SSc skin correlates with the modified Rodnan skin score, the most widely used clinical measure of skin disease severity. Murine fibrosis models indicate that myofibroblasts can arise from a variety of different cell types, but their origin in SSc skin has remained uncertain. Utilizing single cell RNA-sequencing, we define different dermal fibroblast populations and transcriptome changes, comparing SSc to healthy dermal fibroblasts. Here, we show that SSc dermal myofibroblasts arise in two steps from an SFRP2hi/DPP4-expressing progenitor fibroblast population. In the first step, SSc fibroblasts show globally upregulated expression of transcriptome markers, such as PRSS23 and THBS1. A subset of these cells shows markers indicating that they are proliferating. Only a fraction of SFRP2hi SSc fibroblasts differentiate into myofibroblasts, as shown by expression of additional markers, SFRP4 and FNDC1. Bioinformatics analysis of the SSc fibroblast transcriptomes implicated upstream transcription factors, including FOSL2, RUNX1, STAT1, FOXP1, IRF7 and CREB3L1, as well as SMAD3, driving SSc myofibroblast differentiation. Myofibroblasts drive fibrosis in systemic sclerosis (SSc), but the cellular progenitors are unknown. Utilizing single cell RNA-sequencing, the authors show that SSc dermal myofibroblasts arise in a two-step process from SFRP2/DPP4-expressing progenitors and implicate upstream transcription factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tracy Tabib
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Department of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Mengqi Huang
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Department of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Nina Morse
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Department of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Anna Papazoglou
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Department of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Rithika Behera
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Department of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Minxue Jia
- Department of Computational and Systems Biology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.,Joint CMU-Pitt PhD Program in Computational Biology, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Melissa Bulik
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Department of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Daisy E Monier
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Department of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Panayiotis V Benos
- Department of Computational and Systems Biology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.,Joint CMU-Pitt PhD Program in Computational Biology, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Wei Chen
- Division of Pulmonary Medicine, Allergy and Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Robyn Domsic
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Department of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Robert Lafyatis
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Department of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
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22
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A Treatment Combination of IGF and EGF Promotes Hair Growth in the Angora Rabbit. Genes (Basel) 2020; 12:genes12010024. [PMID: 33375217 PMCID: PMC7823460 DOI: 10.3390/genes12010024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2020] [Revised: 12/13/2020] [Accepted: 12/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The hair follicle (HF) growth cycle is a complex, multistep biological process, for which dysfunction affects hair-related diseases in humans and wool production in animals. In this study, a treatment combination of 10 ng/mL insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and 20 ng/mL epidermal growth factor (EGF) significantly increased the elongation length of hair shafts for cultured HFs. The combined treatment of IGF-1 and EGF enhanced the proliferation of HFs and promoted HF growth and development in vitro. In vivo, the combined treatment of IGF-1 and EGF was subcutaneously injected into the dorsal skin in HF synchronized rabbits. The IGF-1 and EGF combination promoted the transition of the hair cycle from telogen to anagen and stimulated the growth of hair shafts. This IGF-1 and EGF combination maintained the structure of the HF and enhanced the cell proliferation of outer root sheaths and the dermal papilla within rabbit skin. The combined treatment of IGF-1 and EGF regulated HF-related genes, including LEF1, CCND1 and WNT2, suggesting that IGF-1 and EGF play a positive role in HF growth and development. Utilization of the combined IGF-1 and EGF treatment may assist with hair and wool production and HF related diseases in mammals.
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23
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Koçak A, Harmancı D, Güner Akdoğan G, Birlik M. Relationship of Wnt pathway activity and organ involvement in scleroderma types. Int J Rheum Dis 2020; 23:1558-1567. [PMID: 32996251 DOI: 10.1111/1756-185x.13973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/30/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Ayşe Koçak
- Kutahya Health Sciences University Kutahya Turkey
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24
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Ledein L, Léger B, Dees C, Beyer C, Distler A, Vettori S, Boukaiba R, Bidouard JP, Schaefer M, Pernerstorfer J, Ruetten H, Jagerschmidt A, Janiak P, Distler JHW, Distler O, Illiano S. Translational engagement of lysophosphatidic acid receptor 1 in skin fibrosis: from dermal fibroblasts of patients with scleroderma to tight skin 1 mouse. Br J Pharmacol 2020; 177:4296-4309. [PMID: 32627178 PMCID: PMC7443477 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2019] [Revised: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 06/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Purpose Genetic deletion and pharmacological studies suggest a role for lysophosphatidic acid (LPA1) receptor in fibrosis. We investigated the therapeutic potential in systemic sclerosis (SSc) of a new orally active selective LPA1 receptor antagonist using dermal fibroblasts from patients and an animal model of skin fibrosis. Experimental Approach Dermal fibroblast and skin biopsies from systemic sclerosis patients were used. Myofibroblast differentiation, gene expression and cytokine secretion were measured following LPA and/or SAR100842 treatment. Pharmacolgical effect of SAR100842 was assessed in the tight skin 1 (Tsk1) mouse model. Key Results SAR100842 is equipotent against various LPA isoforms. Dermal fibroblasts and skin biopsies from patients with systemic sclerosis expressed high levels of LPA1 receptor. The LPA functional response (Ca2+) in systemic sclerosis dermal fibroblasts was fully antagonized with SAR100842. LPA induced myofibroblast differentiation in systemic sclerosis dermal and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis lung fibroblasts and the secretion of inflammatory markers and activated Wnt markers. Results from systemic sclerosis dermal fibroblasts mirror those obtained in a mouse Tsk1 model of skin fibrosis. Using a therapeutic protocol, SAR100842 consistently reversed dermal thickening, inhibited myofibroblast differentiation and reduced skin collagen content. Inflammatory and Wnt pathway markers were also inhibited by SAR100842 in the skin of Tsk1 mice. Conclusion and Implications The effects of SAR100842 on LPA‐induced inflammation and on mechanisms linked to fibrosis like myofibroblast differentiation and Wnt pathway activation indicate that LPA1 receptor activation plays a key role in skin fibrosis. Our results support the therapeutic potential of LPA1 receptor antagonists in systemic sclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laetitia Ledein
- Cardiovascular & Metabolism Unit, Sanofi, Chilly-Mazarin, France
| | - Bertrand Léger
- Cardiovascular & Metabolism Unit, Sanofi, Chilly-Mazarin, France
| | - Clara Dees
- Department of Internal Medicine 3, Institute for Clinical Immunology, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Christian Beyer
- Department of Internal Medicine 3, Institute for Clinical Immunology, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Alfiya Distler
- Department of Internal Medicine 3, Institute for Clinical Immunology, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Serena Vettori
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Rheumatology Unit, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Philip Janiak
- Cardiovascular & Metabolism Unit, Sanofi, Chilly-Mazarin, France
| | - Jörg H W Distler
- Department of Internal Medicine 3, Institute for Clinical Immunology, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Oliver Distler
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Zurich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Stéphane Illiano
- Cardiovascular & Metabolism Unit, Sanofi, Chilly-Mazarin, France
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25
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Comparative investigation of coarse and fine wool sheep skin indicates the early regulators for skin and wool diversity. Gene 2020; 758:144968. [PMID: 32707304 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2020.144968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Revised: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 07/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The hair follicle is an excellent mini-system illustrating the mechanisms governing organogenesis and regeneration. Although the general mechanisms modulating skin and hair follicle development are widely studied in mouse and chicken models, the delicate network regulating skin and hair diversity remains largely unclear. Sheep is an additional model to address the various wool characteristics observed in nature. The coarse and fine wool sheep with diverse fibers were examined to show differences in the primary wool follicle size and skin thickness. The molecular dynamics in skin staged at the primary wool follicle induction between two sheep lines were investigated by RNA-sequencing analyses to generate 1994 differentially expressed genes revealing marker genes for epithelium (6 genes), dermal condensate (38 genes) and dermal fibroblast (58 genes) highly correlated with skin and wool follicle morphological differences. The DEGs were enriched in GO terms represented by epithelial cell migration and differentiation, regulation of hair follicle development and ectodermal placode formation, and KEGG pathways typified by WNT and Hedgehog signaling pathways governing the differences of skin structure. The qPCR detection of 9 genes confirmed the similar expression tendency with RNA-sequencing profiles. This comparative study of coarse and fine wool sheep skin reveals the presence of skin and wool follicle differences at primary wool follicle induction stage, and indicates the potential effectors (APCDD1, FGF20, DKK1, IGFBP3 and SFRP4) regulating the skin compartments during the early morphogenesis of primary wool follicles to shape the variable wool fiber thickness in later developmental stages.
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26
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Cao H, Chen X, Hou J, Wang C, Xiang Z, Shen Y, Han X. The Shh/Gli signaling cascade regulates myofibroblastic activation of lung-resident mesenchymal stem cells via the modulation of Wnt10a expression during pulmonary fibrogenesis. J Transl Med 2020; 100:363-377. [PMID: 31541181 DOI: 10.1038/s41374-019-0316-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2019] [Revised: 08/16/2019] [Accepted: 08/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Lung-resident mesenchymal stem cells (LR-MSCs) are important regulators of lung repair and regeneration, and evidence suggests that this cell population also plays a vital role in fibrosis. Crosstalk between sonic hedgehog (Shh) signaling and wingless/integrated (Wnt) has been demonstrated in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). However, the underlying correlation between LR-MSCs and the Shh-Wnt signaling cascade remains poorly understood. Here, we identified Wnt10a as a key factor in pulmonary fibrosis. Using a bleomycin mouse model, we found that highly expressed Wnt10a was secreted by LR-MSCs undergoing myofibroblastic differentiation. LR-MSCs with myofibroblast characteristics isolated from fibrotic lungs exhibited increased Shh pathway activity, suggesting their role as Shh targets. In vitro, LR-MSCs responded to stimulation by recombinant Shh, acquiring a myofibroblast phenotype. We further demonstrated that the Shh/glioblastoma (Gli) system machinery regulated LR-MSC-to-myofibroblast transition and pulmonary fibrosis via manipulation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling. Accordingly, inhibition of the Shh-Wnt signaling cascade prevented LR-MSC transformation into myofibroblasts and ameliorated pulmonary fibrotic lesions. Moreover, induction of Wnt10a expression and activation of Shh/Gli signaling were confirmed in human pulmonary fibrosis. In summary, this study linking the Shh-Wnt signaling cascade with LR-MSC fibrogenic activity furthered the current understanding of pulmonary fibrosis pathogenesis and might provide a new perspective in the development of treatment strategies for IPF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Honghui Cao
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, 210093, Nanjing, China.,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, 210093, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiang Chen
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, 210093, Nanjing, China.,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, 210093, Nanjing, China
| | - Jiwei Hou
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, 210093, Nanjing, China.,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, 210093, Nanjing, China
| | - Cong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases, Center of New Drug Discovery, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tong Jia Xiang, 210009, Nanjing, China
| | - Zou Xiang
- Department of Health Technology and Informatics, Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yi Shen
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.
| | - Xiaodong Han
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, 210093, Nanjing, China. .,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, 210093, Nanjing, China.
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27
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Xu W, Geng H, Liang J, Liu Y, Lv Q, Wang J, Li R, Wang XL, Liu XK, Jones PM, Sun ZL. Wingless-type MMTV integration site family member 5a is a key inhibitor of islet stellate cells activation. J Diabetes Investig 2020; 11:307-314. [PMID: 31368666 PMCID: PMC7078096 DOI: 10.1111/jdi.13124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2019] [Revised: 07/26/2019] [Accepted: 07/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS/INTRODUCTION Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by islet β-cell dysfunction, which might result from the activation of islet stellate cells (ISCs). Our recent study showed that a specific population of ISCs is prone to be activated in type 2 diabetes mellitus accompanied by reduced secretion of insulin. The wingless-type MMTV integration site family member 5a (Wnt5a)/frizzled-5 signaling pathway might play an important role in this process. The present study aimed to explore the effects of Wnt5a on the activation of ISCs isolated from db/db mice. MATERIALS AND METHODS ISCs were isolated from db/db mice and matched db/m mice. Immunohistochemistry and western blotting analysis were applied for the determination of Wnt5a expression. Exogenous Wnt5a and lentivirus containing the target gene Wnt5a short hairpin ribonucleic acid were used as a molecular intervention. The experiment of transwell and wound healing was used to evaluate the migration of the isolated ISCs. RESULTS Our data showed that the expression of Wnt5a and frizzled-5 was decreased in the ISCs isolated from db/db mice compared with db/m mice. Both the exogenous Wnt5a and the overexpression of Wnt5a could inhibit the outgrowth rate of ISCs from islets, and its viability, migration and α smooth muscle actin expression. These changes were associated with the inactivation of the Smad2/3 signaling pathway in a frizzled-5-dependent manner. CONCLUSIONS Our observations revealed a potential role of Wnt5a in preventing ISC activation. The maintenance of quiescent ISCs might be a desirable outcome of therapeutic strategies for diabetes mellitus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Xu
- Department of EndocrinologyXuzhou Central HospitalXuzhou Institute of Medical SciencesAffiliated Hospital of Southeast UniversityXuzhouJiangsuChina
- Department of DiabetesSchool of Life Course SciencesKing's College London, Guy's CampusLondonUK
- Department of EndocrinologyZhongda HospitalInstitute of DiabetesMedical SchoolSoutheast UniversityNanjingChina
| | - HouFa Geng
- Department of EndocrinologyXuzhou Central HospitalXuzhou Institute of Medical SciencesAffiliated Hospital of Southeast UniversityXuzhouJiangsuChina
| | - Jun Liang
- Department of EndocrinologyXuzhou Central HospitalXuzhou Institute of Medical SciencesAffiliated Hospital of Southeast UniversityXuzhouJiangsuChina
| | - Ying Liu
- Department of EndocrinologyXuzhou Central HospitalXuzhou Institute of Medical SciencesAffiliated Hospital of Southeast UniversityXuzhouJiangsuChina
| | - Qian Lv
- Department of EndocrinologyXuzhou Central HospitalXuzhou Institute of Medical SciencesAffiliated Hospital of Southeast UniversityXuzhouJiangsuChina
| | - Jie Wang
- Department of EndocrinologyXuzhou Central HospitalXuzhou Institute of Medical SciencesAffiliated Hospital of Southeast UniversityXuzhouJiangsuChina
| | - Rui Li
- Department of EndocrinologyXuzhou Central HospitalXuzhou Institute of Medical SciencesAffiliated Hospital of Southeast UniversityXuzhouJiangsuChina
| | - Xiu Li Wang
- Department of EndocrinologyXuzhou Central HospitalXuzhou Institute of Medical SciencesAffiliated Hospital of Southeast UniversityXuzhouJiangsuChina
| | - Xui Kui Liu
- Department of EndocrinologyXuzhou Central HospitalXuzhou Institute of Medical SciencesAffiliated Hospital of Southeast UniversityXuzhouJiangsuChina
| | - Peter M Jones
- Department of DiabetesSchool of Life Course SciencesKing's College London, Guy's CampusLondonUK
| | - Zi Lin Sun
- Department of EndocrinologyZhongda HospitalInstitute of DiabetesMedical SchoolSoutheast UniversityNanjingChina
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Jarman EJ, Boulter L. Targeting the Wnt signaling pathway: the challenge of reducing scarring without affecting repair. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2020; 29:179-190. [DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2020.1718105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Edward J. Jarman
- MRC Human Genetics Unit, MRC Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Luke Boulter
- MRC Human Genetics Unit, MRC Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, Edinburgh, UK
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29
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Identification of novel FBN1 variations implicated in congenital scoliosis. J Hum Genet 2019; 65:221-230. [PMID: 31827250 PMCID: PMC6983459 DOI: 10.1038/s10038-019-0698-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2019] [Revised: 10/23/2019] [Accepted: 11/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Congenital scoliosis (CS) is a form of scoliosis caused by congenital vertebral malformations. Genetic predisposition has been demonstrated in CS. We previously reported that TBX6 loss-of-function causes CS in a compound heterozygous model; however, this model can explain only 10% of CS. Many monogenic and polygenic CS genes remain to be elucidated. In this study, we analyzed exome sequencing (ES) data of 615 Chinese CS from the Deciphering Disorders Involving Scoliosis and COmorbidities (DISCO) project. Cosegregation studies for 103 familial CS identified a novel heterozygous nonsense variant, c.2649G>A (p.Trp883Ter) in FBN1. The association between FBN1 and CS was then analyzed by extracting FBN1 variants from ES data of 574 sporadic CS and 828 controls; 30 novel variants were identified and prioritized for further analyses. A mutational burden test showed that the deleterious FBN1 variants were significantly enriched in CS subjects (OR = 3.9, P = 0.03 by Fisher’s exact test). One missense variant, c.2613A>C (p.Leu871Phe) was recurrent in two unrelated CS subjects, and in vitro functional experiments for the variant suggest that FBN1 may contribute to CS by upregulating the transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) signaling. Our study expanded the phenotypic spectrum of FBN1, and provided nove insights into the genetic etiology of CS.
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30
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Whole-genome bisulfite sequencing in systemic sclerosis provides novel targets to understand disease pathogenesis. BMC Med Genomics 2019; 12:144. [PMID: 31651337 PMCID: PMC6813992 DOI: 10.1186/s12920-019-0602-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2019] [Accepted: 10/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare autoimmune connective tissue disease whose pathogenesis remains incompletely understood. Increasing evidence suggests that both genetic susceptibilities and changes in DNA methylation influence pivotal biological pathways and thereby contribute to the disease. The role of DNA methylation in SSc has not been fully elucidated, because existing investigations of DNA methylation predominantly focused on nucleotide CpGs within restricted genic regions, and were performed on samples containing mixed cell types. Methods We performed whole-genome bisulfite sequencing on purified CD4+ T lymphocytes from nine SSc patients and nine controls in a pilot study, and then profiled genome-wide cytosine methylation as well as genetic variations. We adopted robust statistical methods to identify differentially methylated genomic regions (DMRs). We then examined pathway enrichment associated with genes located in these DMRs. We also tested whether changes in CpG methylation were associated with adjacent genetic variation. Results We profiled DNA methylation at more than three million CpG dinucleotides genome-wide. We identified 599 DMRs associated with 340 genes, among which 54 genes exhibited further associations with adjacent genetic variation. We also found these genes were associated with pathways and functions that are known to be abnormal in SSc, including Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, skin lesion formation and progression, and angiogenesis. Conclusion The CD4+ T cell DNA cytosine methylation landscape in SSc involves crucial genes in disease pathogenesis. Some of the methylation patterns are also associated with genetic variation. These findings provide essential foundations for future studies of epigenetic regulation and genome-epigenome interaction in SSc.
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31
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Zigrino P, Sengle G. Fibrillin microfibrils and proteases, key integrators of fibrotic pathways. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2019; 146:3-16. [PMID: 29709492 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2018.04.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2017] [Revised: 04/12/2018] [Accepted: 04/25/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Supramolecular networks composed of multi-domain ECM proteins represent intricate cellular microenvironments which are required to balance tissue homeostasis and direct remodeling. Structural deficiency in ECM proteins results in imbalances in ECM-cell communication resulting often times in fibrotic reactions. To understand how individual components of the ECM integrate communication with the cell surface by presenting growth factors or providing fine-tuned biomechanical properties is mandatory for gaining a better understanding of disease mechanisms in the quest for new therapeutic approaches. Here we provide an overview about what we can learn from inherited connective tissue disorders caused primarily by mutations in fibrillin-1 and binding partners as well as by altered ECM processing leading to defined structural changes and similar functional knock-in mouse models. We will utilize this knowledge to propose new molecular hypotheses which should be tested in future studies.
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32
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Brant JO, Boatwright JL, Davenport R, Sandoval AGW, Maden M, Barbazuk WB. Comparative transcriptomic analysis of dermal wound healing reveals de novo skeletal muscle regeneration in Acomys cahirinus. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0216228. [PMID: 31141508 PMCID: PMC6541261 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0216228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2018] [Accepted: 04/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The African spiny mouse, Acomys spp., is capable of scar-free dermal wound healing. Here, we have performed a comprehensive analysis of gene expression throughout wound healing following full-thickness excisional dermal wounds in both Acomys cahirinus and Mus musculus. Additionally, we provide an annotated, de novo transcriptome assembly of A. cahirinus skin and skin wounds. Using a novel computational comparative RNA-Seq approach along with pathway and co-expression analyses, we identify enrichment of regeneration associated genes as well as upregulation of genes directly related to muscle development or function. Our RT-qPCR data reveals induction of the myogenic regulatory factors, as well as upregulation of embryonic myosin, starting between days 14 and 18 post-wounding in A. cahirinus. In contrast, the myogenic regulatory factors remain downregulated, embryonic myosin is only modestly upregulated, and no new muscle fibers of the panniculus carnosus are generated in M. musculus wounds. Additionally, we show that Col6a1, a key component of the satellite cell niche, is upregulated in A. cahirinus compared to M. musculus. Our data also demonstrate that the macrophage profile and inflammatory response is different between species, with A. cahirinus expressing significantly higher levels of Il10. We also demonstrate differential expression of the upstream regulators Wnt7a, Wnt2 and Wnt6 during wound healing. Our analyses demonstrate that A. cahirinus is capable of de novo skeletal muscle regeneration of the panniculus carnosus following removal of the extracellular matrix. We believe this study represents the first detailed analysis of de novo skeletal muscle regeneration observed in an adult mammal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason O. Brant
- Department of Biology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - J. Lucas Boatwright
- Department of Biology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Ruth Davenport
- Department of Biology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | | | - Malcolm Maden
- Department of Biology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
- Genetics Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
- * E-mail: (WBB); (MM)
| | - W. Brad Barbazuk
- Department of Biology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
- Genetics Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
- * E-mail: (WBB); (MM)
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Zhou J, Yi Z, Fu Q. Dynamic decreased expression and hypermethylation of secreted frizzled-related protein 1 and 4 over the course of pulmonary fibrosis in mice. Life Sci 2019; 218:241-252. [PMID: 30586565 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2018.12.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2018] [Revised: 12/18/2018] [Accepted: 12/22/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Aberrantly activated Wnt signaling pathway and dysregulation of extracellular antagonists of Wnt signaling have been revealed in pulmonary fibrosis. In this study we evaluated the expression of secreted frizzled-related proteins (SFRPs) and their aberrant promoter methylation to investigate the involvement of epigenetic regulation in pulmonary fibrosis. The pulmonary fibrosis induced by intratracheal injection of bleomycin (BLM) into mice was adopted. The transcription and relative protein expression of SFRPs were detected at Day 7 (D7), D14, and D21. DNA methylation analysis was performed by methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction (MSP). A DNA methyltransferase (DNMT) inhibitor (5-aza-2'-deoxycytidine; 5-aza) was used for demethylation and the relative β-catenin expression levels were measured to assess overactivity of the canonical Wnt signaling pathway. The transcription and protein expression of SFRP1 significantly decreased at D14 and D21, whereas the transcription and protein expression of SFRP4 significantly decreased at D7 and stayed downregulated until D21. The significantly hypermethylated promoters of SFRP1 and SFRP4 resulted in impaired transcription and decreased expression during pulmonary fibrosis in mice. Besides, reactivation of SFRP1 and SFRP4 by 5-aza reduced β-catenin mRNA and protein expression in vivo and in vitro. Animal experiments confirmed that 5-aza could significantly alleviate bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis in mice. Thus, changes of promoter hypermethylation might downregulate SFRP1 and SFRP4 at different stages of pulmonary fibrosis, and the finding supports the usefulness of DNMT inhibitors, which might effectively reverse activation of β-catenin and reduce pulmonary fibrosis in mice. These data provide a possible new direction in the research on pulmonary fibrosis treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junfei Zhou
- Department of Rheumatology, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100020, PR China
| | - Zheng Yi
- Department of Rheumatology, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100020, PR China.
| | - Qiang Fu
- Department of Rheumatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, HengYang 421001, PR China
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Maden M, Brant JO. Insights into the regeneration of skin from Acomys, the spiny mouse. Exp Dermatol 2019; 28:436-441. [PMID: 30457673 DOI: 10.1111/exd.13847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2018] [Revised: 10/29/2018] [Accepted: 11/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Members of the Acomys genus, known as spiny mice, are unique among mammals in being perfectly capable of regenerating large areas of skin that have been removed. During this regenerative process hairs, sebaceous glands, erector pili muscles, adipocytes and the panniculus carnosus all regenerate and the dermis does not scar. We review here the processes that the epidermis and the individual components of the dermis undergo during spiny mouse regeneration as well as the molecules that have been identified as potentially important in regeneration. We then relate this to what has been proposed as playing a role in studies from the laboratory mouse, Mus musculus. Differences in the immune systems of spiny mice and laboratory mice are also highlighted as this is suggested to play a part not only in the perfect wound healing that embryos display but also in regeneration in lower vertebrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malcolm Maden
- UF Genetics Institute & Department of Biology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Jason O Brant
- UF Genetics Institute & Department of Biology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
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Guo H, Xing Y, Deng F, Yang K, Li Y. Secreted Frizzled-related protein 4 inhibits the regeneration of hair follicles. PeerJ 2019; 6:e6153. [PMID: 30631645 PMCID: PMC6322481 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.6153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2018] [Accepted: 11/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Secreted Frizzled-related Protein 4 (sFRP4) belongs to Wnt inhibitors. Previously, we reported that sFRP4 inhibited the differentiation of melanocyte. Here, by using of immunostaining, we showed that sFRP4 is expressed in both human and mouse hair follicles, especially in the outer root sheath and inner root sheath. To reveal the role of sFRP4 in hair follicle growth and hair cycle, we induced synchronized hair cycle in the dorsal skin of mice by depilation, and injected sFRP4 intradermally into the skin. By hematoxylin and eosin staining, we found that the regeneration of hair follicles was inhibited by sFRP4. However, the structure of hair follicles remained complete. Compared with phosphate buffer saline-treated hair follicles, the sFRP4-treated hair follicles still had the same expression pattern of keratins. Our findings reveal that sFRP4 inhibits but not blocks the regeneration of hair follicles, and supply a potential therapeutic application to treat hair follicle regeneration disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiying Guo
- Department of Cell Biology, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yizhan Xing
- Department of Cell Biology, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Fang Deng
- Department of Cell Biology, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ke Yang
- Chongqing Stem Cell Therapy Engineering Technical Center, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yuhong Li
- Department of Cell Biology, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
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Taylan A, Birlik M, Kenar G, Toprak B, Gundogdu B, Gurler O, Karakas B, Akıncı B, Sisman AR. Osteoprotegrin interacts with biomarkers and cytokines that have roles in osteoporosis, skin fibrosis, and vasculopathy in systemic sclerosis: A potential multifaceted relationship between OPG/RANKL/TRAIL and Wnt inhibitors. Mod Rheumatol 2018; 29:619-624. [PMID: 30001654 DOI: 10.1080/14397595.2018.1500736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Objectives: We explored the interactions of osteoprotegerin (OPG) with biomarkers of bone turnover and cytokines, including soluble receptor activator for nuclear factor kappa beta ligand (sRANKL), tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-induced ligand (TRAIL), and Wnt inhibitors in osteoporosis, vasculopathy and fibrosis related to systemic sclerosis (SSc). Methods: The study included 46 SSc patients and 30 healthy controls. Skin thickness, pulmonary fibrosis and/or hypertension, digital ulcers, and calcinosis cutis of SSc patients were assessed. We determined bone mineral density (BMD), and OPG, sRANKL, TRAIL, secreted frizzled-related protein 1 (sFRP-1), Dickkopf-related protein 1 (DKK-1), sclerostin in the serum of both patients and controls. Results: OPG, sclerostin, and sFRP-1 levels were similar between patients and controls (P > 0.05). Femoral neck and lumbar spine BMD and vitamin D levels were lower, and the OC, NTX, sRANKL, DKK1 and TRAIL levels were significantly higher, in patients than in controls (p < 0.05). In subgroup analysis, patients with higher modified Rodnan skin score (mRodnan) had higher DKK-1, sclerostin, and TRAIL levels (p < 0.05); those with diffuse SSc subtype had lower BMD values than those with limited SSc (p < 0.05). Skin and pulmonary fibrosis linked negatively with BMD measures. Conclusion: we showed that sRANKL levels were higher and correlated with bone turnover markers. It may be related to osteoporosis in SSc. The OPG level was unaltered in SSc patients. Higher TRAIL levels associated with skin thickness may indicate vascular dysfunction or injury. Higher DKK-1 and sclerostin levels may be related to a reactive increase in cells and be prominently linked to fibrosis in SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Taylan
- a Department of Rheumatology , Saglik Bilimleri University, Izmir Tepecik Training and Research Hospital , Izmir , Turkey
| | - Merih Birlik
- b Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Rheumatology , Dokuz Eylul University School of Medicine , Izmir , Turkey
| | - Gokce Kenar
- b Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Rheumatology , Dokuz Eylul University School of Medicine , Izmir , Turkey
| | - Burak Toprak
- c Department of Biochemistry , Saglik Bilimleri University, Izmir Tepecik Training and Research Hospital , Izmir , Turkey
| | - Barıs Gundogdu
- d Rheumatology Section , Medeniyet University , Istanbul , Turkey
| | - Oguz Gurler
- b Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Rheumatology , Dokuz Eylul University School of Medicine , Izmir , Turkey
| | - Burak Karakas
- e Department of Internal Medicine , Saglik Bilimleri University, Izmir Tepecik Training and Research Hospital , Izmir , Turkey
| | - Barıs Akıncı
- f Department of Endocrinology , Dokuz Eylul University School of Medicine , Izmir , Turkey
| | - Ali R Sisman
- g Department of Biochemistry , Dokuz Eylul University School of Medicine , Izmir , Turkey
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Cai Y, Yang W, Pan M, Wang C, Wu W, Zhu S. Wnt2 knock down by RNAi inhibits the proliferation of in vitro-cultured human keloid fibroblasts. Medicine (Baltimore) 2018; 97:e12167. [PMID: 30212944 PMCID: PMC6156062 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000012167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
To study the effect of knocking down wingless-related MMTV integration site 2 (Wnt2) expression by RNAi on the growth and signaling pathways of ex vitro-cultured keloid fibroblasts (KFB).Human KFB were isolated from 10 keloid patient specimens. The KFB cells were then transfected with 4 pairs of small interfering RNA (siRNA) targeting human Wnt2, respectively. Reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analysis were conducted to verify the knock down of Wnt2, and the expression of β-catenin glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β) and cyclin D1 were examined.siRNA Wnt2 transfection (siWnt2) resulted in the significant inhibition of Wnt2 expression at both the mRNA and protein levels. The expression of β-catenin, GSK-3β, p-GSK-3β, and cyclin D1 at the protein level also decreased in siWnt2 cells. siWnt2 resulted in a substantially slower growth and significant delay in cell doubling time of the KFB cells compared with control groups. Further, the siRNA knock down of GSK-3β and β-catenin resulted in slower proliferation rates, respectively.Wnt2 siRNA has an inhibitive effect on keloid fibroblast proliferation, which may be a potential therapeutic approach for keloid and other human fibrotic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yumei Cai
- Department of Pathology, Quanzhou Medical College
| | - Weiqun Yang
- Department of Pathology, Quanzhou Medical College
| | | | - Chaoyang Wang
- Department of Plastic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Wenyi Wu
- Department of Plastic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Shize Zhu
- Department of Plastic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, Fujian, China
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Gillespie J, Ross RL, Corinaldesi C, Esteves F, Derrett-Smith E, McDermott MF, Doody GM, Denton CP, Emery P, Del Galdo F. Transforming Growth Factor β Activation Primes Canonical Wnt Signaling Through Down-Regulation of Axin-2. Arthritis Rheumatol 2018; 70:932-942. [PMID: 29409120 DOI: 10.1002/art.40437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2016] [Accepted: 01/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Aberrant activation of Wnt signaling has been observed in tissues from patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). This study aimed to determine the role of transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) in driving the increased Wnt signaling, through modulation of axis inhibition protein 2 (Axin-2), a critical regulator of the Wnt canonical pathway. METHODS Canonical Wnt signaling activation was analyzed by TOPflash T cell factor/lymphoid enhancer factor promoter assays. Axin-2 was evaluated in vitro by analysis of Axin-2 primary/mature transcript expression and decay, TGFβ receptor type I (TGFβRI) blockade, small interfering RNA-mediated depletion of tristetraprolin 1, and XAV-939-mediated Axin-2 stabilization. In vivo, Axin-2 messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein expression was determined in skin and lung biopsy samples from mice that express a kinase-deficient TGFβRII specifically on fibroblasts (TβRIIΔk-fib-transgenic mice) and from littermate controls. RESULTS SSc fibroblasts displayed an increased response to canonical Wnt ligands despite basal levels of Wnt signaling that were comparable to those in healthy control fibroblasts in vitro. Notably, we showed that SSc fibroblasts had reduced basal expression of Axin-2, which was caused by an endogenous TGFβ-dependent increase in Axin-2 mRNA decay. Accordingly, we observed that TGFβ decreased Axin-2 expression both in vitro in healthy control fibroblasts and in vivo in TβRIIΔk-fib-transgenic mice. Additionally, using Axin-2 gain- and loss-of-function experiments, we demonstrated that the TGFβ-induced increased response to Wnt activation characteristic of SSc fibroblasts depended on reduced bioavailability of Axin-2. CONCLUSION This study highlights the importance of reduced bioavailability of Axin-2 in mediating the increased canonical Wnt response observed in SSc fibroblasts. This novel mechanism extends our understanding of the processes involved in Wnt/β-catenin-driven pathology and supports the rationale for targeting the TGFβ pathway to regulate the aberrant Wnt signaling observed during fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin Gillespie
- University of Leeds and Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds, UK
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Paul Emery
- University of Leeds and Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds, UK
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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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Secreted frizzled related protein 4 (sFRP4) update: A brief review. Cell Signal 2018; 45:63-70. [PMID: 29360572 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2018.01.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2017] [Revised: 12/13/2017] [Accepted: 01/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Secreted frizzled-related proteins control a multitude of biological phenomena throughout development and adult life in humans. In parallel, aberrant gene expression and abnormal secreted protein levels accompany a wide range of pathologies in humans. In this review, we provide a brief introduction to sFRP4, an update of the pathways it's involved, its various physiological actions that are reported to contribute to diseases, outlining the importance of its wider research and specific modulation by pharmacologic interventions. First recognized as a novel molecule that co-purified with a disparate protein, its identity was based on its sequence homology to the frizzled receptors. Once multiple members of the family were cloned, their genetic loci, tissue and subcellular distributions were located. Nucleotide and amino acid sequences were characterized and homology to different organisms was found to be present that helped elucidate their actions. Following subsequent experimental studies, they were found to be secreted proteins with an affinity to bind to the Wnt ligands, participating in different developmental and adult homeostatic pathways by the virtue of their regulatory function to the Wnt signal transduction system. Secreted frizzled related protein 4 has garnered considerable attention in the recent years following breakthrough discoveries implicating them in the pathogenesis of various diseases. Studies investigating them can provide information not only regarding their association with a disease but can also help use them as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
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Klavdianou K, Liossis SN, Daoussis D. Dkk1: A key molecule in joint remodelling and fibrosis. Mediterr J Rheumatol 2017; 28:174-182. [PMID: 32185280 PMCID: PMC7045998 DOI: 10.31138/mjr.28.4.174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2017] [Revised: 07/20/2017] [Accepted: 08/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Dickkopf-1 (Dkk-1) is a Wnt signaling pathway inhibitor that has been shown to play an important role in joint remodeling, in experimental models of arthritis and in humans. Recent data suggest that this molecule is involved in the fibrotic process as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kalliopi Klavdianou
- Department of Rheumatology, University of Patras Medical School, Patras University Hospital, Patras, Greece
| | - Stamatis-Nick Liossis
- Department of Rheumatology, University of Patras Medical School, Patras University Hospital, Patras, Greece
| | - Dimitrios Daoussis
- Department of Rheumatology, University of Patras Medical School, Patras University Hospital, Patras, Greece
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Paricalcitol Inhibits Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling Pathway and Ameliorates Dermal Fibrosis in Bleomycin Induced Scleroderma Model. Arch Rheumatol 2017; 33:288-294. [PMID: 30632522 DOI: 10.5606/archrheumatol.2018.6648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2017] [Accepted: 10/31/2017] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives This study aims to determine the prophylactic and therapeutic efficacy of inhibition of Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway with paricalcitol in an experimental scleroderma model created with bleomycin (BLM). Materials and methods Sixty female BALB/c mice (8-week old and weighing 25 g to 30 g) were divided into six groups as prophylactic-early [group 1 (control I)], sham I (group 2), paricalcitol I (group 3), therapeutic-late [group 4 (control II)], sham II (group 5), and paricalcitol II (group 6) groups. Subcutaneous BLM (100 μg/day) injections were used to induce dermal fibrosis and paricalcitol (0.3 μg/kg/day) was applied subcutaneously to BLM-injected mice during the first three weeks for preventive interventions and in the second three weeks for therapeutic interventions. Tissue samples were harvested for subsequent pathological and real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis. Tissue transforming growth factor-beta 1, axin-1, and Wnt-2 messenger ribonucleic acid expressions were determined by real-time polymerase chain reaction. Results Repeated BLM applications increased the dermal inflammatory cell infiltration and dermal thickness, and led to dermal fibrosis, in both early and late stages. Similarly, transforming growth factor-beta 1, axin-1, and Wnt-2 expressions were significantly increased in the sham groups compared to the own control group (p<0.05 for all). Contrarily, prophylactic and therapeutic paricalcitol applications decreased the transforming growth factor-beta 1, axin-1, and Wnt-2 messenger ribonucleic acid expressions compared to the own sham group (p<0.05 for all). In addition, the regressions in dermal necro-inflammation and dermal fibrosis on pathological views were also observed in the paricalcitol applied groups. Conclusion In this model, increased axin-1 and Wnt-2 messenger ribonucleic acid expressions suggest that Wnt/β-catenin pathway is active in dermal fibrosis.
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Worst TS, Daskalova K, Steidler A, Berner-Leischner K, Röth R, Niesler B, Kriegmair MC, Erben P, Pfalzgraf D. Impact of Altered WNT2B Expression on Bladder Wall Fibroblasts: Implications for Apoptosis Regulation in the Stroma of the Lower Urinary Tract. Urol Int 2017; 99:476-483. [PMID: 29131138 DOI: 10.1159/000481440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2017] [Accepted: 09/10/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little is known about the role of WNT signalling in pathological processes involving the urinary tract stroma. Here the impact of WNT signalling on bladder wall fibroblasts (BWFs) was studied using integrated expression profiling. MATERIAL AND METHODS WNT ligand and downstream WNT pathway component expression was profiled in human BWFs using qRT-PCR. Highly expressed WNT2B was knocked down using siRNA in BWFs. The expression of 730 mRNAs and 800 miRNAs was analyzed on the nCounter MAX platform in #WNT2B and control transfected BWFs. qRT-PCR was used for validation in vitro and in matched scar and healthy bladder wall tissue samples of 12 patients with vesico-urethral anastomotic stricture (VUAS). RESULTS Thirteen genes and 9 miRNAs showed differential expression in #WNT2B cells. Among these were TNFSF10, a key apoptosis inductor, (0.22fold, p = 0.011) and miR-1246 (36.2fold, p = 0.031). miRNA target prediction indicated TNFSF10 to be regulated by miR-1246. qRT-PCR analysis confirmed differential expression of miR-1246 and TNFSF10 in #WNT2B BWFs. Furthermore, TNFSF10 was significantly underexpressed in VUAS tissue (p = 0.009). CONCLUSION Perturbation of WNT signalling results in an altered expression of the apoptosis inductor TNFSF10. Similar changes are observed in VUAS. Further studies investigating the crosslink between WNT signalling and apoptosis regulation in the urinary tract stroma are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Stefan Worst
- Department of Urology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Kristina Daskalova
- Department of Urology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Annette Steidler
- Department of Urology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Karin Berner-Leischner
- Department of Urology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Ralph Röth
- nCounter Core Facility, Institute for Human Genetics, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Beate Niesler
- nCounter Core Facility, Institute for Human Genetics, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Maximilian C Kriegmair
- Department of Urology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Philipp Erben
- Department of Urology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Daniel Pfalzgraf
- Department of Urology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
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Sargent JL, Li Z, Aliprantis AO, Greenblatt M, Lemaire R, Wu MH, Wei J, Taroni J, Harris A, Long KB, Burgwin C, Artlett CM, Blankenhorn EP, Lafyatis R, Varga J, Clark SH, Whitfield ML. Identification of Optimal Mouse Models of Systemic Sclerosis by Interspecies Comparative Genomics. Arthritis Rheumatol 2017; 68:2003-15. [PMID: 26945694 DOI: 10.1002/art.39658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2015] [Accepted: 02/18/2016] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Understanding the pathogenesis of systemic sclerosis (SSc) is confounded by considerable disease heterogeneity. Animal models of SSc that recapitulate distinct subsets of disease at the molecular level have not been delineated. We applied interspecies comparative analysis of genomic data from multiple mouse models of SSc and patients with SSc to determine which animal models best reflect the SSc intrinsic molecular subsets. METHODS Gene expression measured in skin from mice with sclerodermatous graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), bleomycin-induced fibrosis, Tsk1/+ or Tsk2/+ mice was mapped to human orthologs and compared to SSc skin biopsy-derived gene expression. Transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) activation was assessed using a responsive signature in mice, and tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily member 12A (TNFRSF12A) expression was measured in SSc patient and mouse skin. RESULTS Gene expression in skin from mice with sclerodermatous GVHD and bleomycin-induced fibrosis corresponded to that in SSc patients in the inflammatory molecular subset. In contrast, Tsk2/+ mice showed gene expression corresponding to the fibroproliferative SSc subset. Enrichment of a TGFβ-responsive signature was observed in both Tsk2/+ mice and mice with bleomycin-induced skin fibrosis. Expression of TNFRSF12A (the TWEAK receptor/fibroblast growth factor-inducible 14) was elevated in skin from patients with fibroproliferative SSc and the skin of Tsk2/+ mice. CONCLUSION This study reveals similarities in cutaneous gene expression between distinct mouse models of SSc and specific molecular subsets of the disease. Different pathways underlie the intrinsic subsets including TGFβ, interleukin-13 (IL-13), and IL-4. We identify a novel target, Tnfrsf12a, with elevated expression in skin from patients with fibroproliferative SSc and Tsk2/+ mice. These findings will inform mechanistic and translational preclinical studies in SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zhenghui Li
- Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, New Hampshire
| | | | | | | | - Ming-Hua Wu
- Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Jun Wei
- Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Jaclyn Taroni
- Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, New Hampshire
| | - Adam Harris
- University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington
| | - Kristen B Long
- Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Chelsea Burgwin
- Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Carol M Artlett
- Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | | | | | - John Varga
- Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
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45
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Jeon KI, Phipps RP, Sime PJ, Huxlin KR. Antifibrotic Actions of Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor γ Ligands in Corneal Fibroblasts Are Mediated by β-Catenin-Regulated Pathways. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2017; 187:1660-1669. [PMID: 28606794 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2017.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2017] [Revised: 03/30/2017] [Accepted: 04/05/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Wound healing after corneal injury typically involves fibrosis, with transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) as one of its strongest mediators. A class of small molecules-peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) ligands-exert potent antifibrotic effects in the cornea by blocking phosphorylation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK). However, why this blocks fibrosis remains unknown. Herein, we show that PPARγ ligands (rosiglitazone, troglitazone, and 15-deoxy-Δ12,14-prostaglandin J2) decrease levels of β-catenin. We also show that β-catenin siRNA and the Wingless/integrated (Wnt) inhibitor pyrvinium block the ability of corneal fibroblasts to up-regulate synthesis of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), collagen 1 (COL1), and fibronectin (FN) in response to TGF-β1. Activation of TGF-β receptors and p38 MAPK increased glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK3β) phosphorylation, whereas a chemical inhibitor of p38 MAPK (SB203580) reduced the phosphorylation of GSK3β, decreasing active β-catenin levels in both cytoplasmic and nuclear fractions. Finally, lithium chloride, a GSK3 inhibitor, also attenuated the TGF-β1-induced increase in α-SMA, COL1, and FN expression. All in all, our results suggest that TGF-β1 stimulation increases active β-catenin concentration in cultured corneal fibroblasts through p38 MAPK regulation of canonical Wnt/β-catenin signaling, increasing α-SMA, COL1, and FN synthesis. Thus, PPARγ ligands, by blocking TGF-β1-induced p38 MAPK phosphorylation, prevent increases in both total and active β-catenin through p38 MAPK-GSK3β signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kye-Im Jeon
- Flaum Eye Institute, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York
| | - Richard P Phipps
- Flaum Eye Institute, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York; Department of Medicine, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York; Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York
| | - Patricia J Sime
- Department of Medicine, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York; Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York
| | - Krystel R Huxlin
- Flaum Eye Institute, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York; Center for Visual Science, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York.
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46
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Saracino AM, Denton CP, Orteu CH. The molecular pathogenesis of morphoea: from genetics to future treatment targets. Br J Dermatol 2017; 177:34-46. [PMID: 27553363 DOI: 10.1111/bjd.15001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
A number of immunoinflammatory and profibrotic mechanisms are recognized in the pathogenesis of broad sclerotic skin processes and, more specifically, morphoea. However, the precise aetiopathogenesis is complex and remains unclear. Morphoea is clinically heterogeneous, with variable anatomical patterning, depth of tissue involvement and sclerotic, inflammatory, atrophic and dyspigmented morphology. Underlying mechanisms determining these reproducible clinical subsets are poorly understood but of great clinical and therapeutic relevance. Regional susceptibility mechanisms (e.g. environmental triggers, mosaicism and positional identity) together with distinct pathogenic determinants (including innate, adaptive and imbalanced pro- and antifibrotic signalling pathways) are likely implicated. In the age of genetic profiling and personalized medicine, improved characterization of the environmental, systemic, local, genetic and immunopathological factors underpinning morphoea pathogenesis may open the door to novel targeted therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- A M Saracino
- The Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, Department of Dermatology, London, U.K.,University College London, Centre for Rheumatology and Connective Tissue Diseases, Division of Medicine, London, U.K
| | - C P Denton
- University College London, Centre for Rheumatology and Connective Tissue Diseases, Division of Medicine, London, U.K.,The Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, Department of Rheumatology, London, U.K
| | - C H Orteu
- The Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, Department of Dermatology, London, U.K
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Kramer N, Schmöllerl J, Unger C, Nivarthi H, Rudisch A, Unterleuthner D, Scherzer M, Riedl A, Artaker M, Crncec I, Lenhardt D, Schwarz T, Prieler B, Han X, Hengstschläger M, Schüler J, Eferl R, Moriggl R, Sommergruber W, Dolznig H. Autocrine WNT2 signaling in fibroblasts promotes colorectal cancer progression. Oncogene 2017; 36:5460-5472. [DOI: 10.1038/onc.2017.144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2016] [Revised: 02/15/2017] [Accepted: 04/14/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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48
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Paracrine Secreted Frizzled-Related Protein 4 Inhibits Melanocytes Differentiation in Hair Follicle. Stem Cells Int 2017; 2017:2857478. [PMID: 28337220 PMCID: PMC5350338 DOI: 10.1155/2017/2857478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2016] [Revised: 01/04/2017] [Accepted: 01/24/2017] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Wnt signaling plays crucial role in regulating melanocyte stem cells/melanocyte differentiation in the hair follicle. However, how the Wnt signaling is balanced to be overactivated to control follicular melanocytes behavior remains unknown. Here, by using immunofluorescence staining, we showed that secreted frizzled-related protein 4 (sFRP4) is preferentially expressed in the skin epidermal cells rather than in melanocytes. By overexpression of sFRP4 in skin cells in vivo and in vitro, we found that sFRP4 attenuates activation of Wnt signaling, resulting in decrease of melanocytes differentiation in the regenerating hair follicle. Our findings unveiled a new regulator that involves modulating melanocytes differentiation through a paracrine mechanism in hair follicle, supplying a hope for potential therapeutic application to treat skin pigmentation disorders.
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Morin F, Kavian N, Nicco C, Cerles O, Chéreau C, Batteux F. Improvement of Sclerodermatous Graft-Versus-Host Disease in Mice by Niclosamide. J Invest Dermatol 2016; 136:2158-2167. [PMID: 27424318 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2016.06.624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2015] [Revised: 06/22/2016] [Accepted: 06/27/2016] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Sclerodermatous graft-versus-host disease, a frequent complication of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell graft, shares many features with systemic sclerosis, such as production of autoantibodies and fibrosis of skin and inner organs. Recent reports on the implication of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 and of Wnt/β-catenin in fibrosis have prompted us to investigate the effects of the inhibition of both signaling pathways in a mouse model of sclerodermatous graft-versus-host disease, using niclosamide, an anthelmintic drug, with a well-defined safety profile. Sclerodermatous graft-versus-host disease was induced in BALB/c mice by B10.D2 bone marrow and spleen cell transplantation. Mice were treated every other day, 5 days a week, for 5 weeks by niclosamide. Clinical and biological features were studied 42 days after transplantation. Niclosamide reversed clinical symptoms including alopecia, vasculitis, and diarrhea and prevented fibrosis of the skin and visceral organs. Beneficial immunological effects were also observed: niclosamide decreased the production of effector memory CD4 and CD8 T cells, T-cell infiltration of the skin and visceral organs, and decreased productions of IL-4 and IL-13, and autoimmune B-cell activation. The improvement provided by niclosamide in the mouse model of sclerodermatous graft-versus-host disease provides a rationale for the evaluation of niclosamide in the management of patients affected by systemic fibrotic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florence Morin
- Institut Cochin, INSERM U1016, CNRS UMR8104, Université Paris Descartes Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France; Laboratoire d'Immunologie biologique, Hôpital Cochin, Paris, France
| | - Niloufar Kavian
- Institut Cochin, INSERM U1016, CNRS UMR8104, Université Paris Descartes Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France; Laboratoire d'Immunologie biologique, Hôpital Cochin, Paris, France
| | - Carole Nicco
- Institut Cochin, INSERM U1016, CNRS UMR8104, Université Paris Descartes Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Olivier Cerles
- Institut Cochin, INSERM U1016, CNRS UMR8104, Université Paris Descartes Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Christiane Chéreau
- Institut Cochin, INSERM U1016, CNRS UMR8104, Université Paris Descartes Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Frédéric Batteux
- Institut Cochin, INSERM U1016, CNRS UMR8104, Université Paris Descartes Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France; Laboratoire d'Immunologie biologique, Hôpital Cochin, Paris, France.
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50
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Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a connective tissue disease of unknown etiology that is characterized by fibrosis of the skin and several internal organs, vasculopathy, inflammation and autoimmunity. Animal models have improved our understanding of the pathogenesis of SSc. Many inducible and genetic animal models of SSc have been developed and characterized in the last years. All of these models have different strengths and limitations and mimic different aspects of the pathogenesis of SSc. The purpose of this review is to summarize the characteristics of the various animal models of SSc and to provide an outline of how to use these models to study certain aspects in the pathogenesis of SSc and to test the effects of potential therapeutic approaches.
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