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Zhou J, Sun X, Chen X, Liu H, Miao X, Guo Y, Fan Z, Li J, Xu Y, Li Z. Phosphatidic acid-enabled MKL1 contributes to liver regeneration: Translational implication in liver failure. Acta Pharm Sin B 2024; 14:256-272. [PMID: 38261867 PMCID: PMC10793099 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2023.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver regeneration following injury aids the restoration of liver mass and the recovery of liver function. In the present study we investigated the contribution of megakaryocytic leukemia 1 (MKL1), a transcriptional modulator, to liver regeneration. We report that both MKL1 expression and its nuclear translocation correlated with hepatocyte proliferation in cell and animal models of liver regeneration and in liver failure patients. Mice with MKL1 deletion exhibited defective regenerative response in the liver. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that MKL1 interacted with E2F1 to program pro-regenerative transcription. MAPKAPK2 mediated phosphorylation primed MKL1 for its interaction with E2F1. Of interest, phospholipase d2 promoted MKL1 nuclear accumulation and liver regeneration by catalyzing production of phosphatidic acid (PA). PA administration stimulated hepatocyte proliferation and enhanced survival in a MKL1-dependent manner in a pre-clinical model of liver failure. Finally, PA levels was detected to be positively correlated with expression of pro-regenerative genes and inversely correlated with liver injury in liver failure patients. In conclusion, our data reveal a novel mechanism whereby MKL1 contributes to liver regeneration. Screening for small-molecule compounds boosting MKL1 activity may be considered as a reasonable approach to treat acute liver failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiawen Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Pharmacology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Xinyue Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Pharmacology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Xuelian Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Pharmacology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Huimin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Pharmacology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Xiulian Miao
- Institute of Biomedical Research, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng 252200, China
| | - Yan Guo
- Institute of Biomedical Research, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng 252200, China
| | - Zhiwen Fan
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Jie Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Affiliated with Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing 210008, China
- Institute of Viruses and Infectious Diseases, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Yong Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Pharmacology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
- Institute of Biomedical Research, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng 252200, China
| | - Zilong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Pharmacology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
- Institute of Biomedical Research, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng 252200, China
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2
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PRMT5-mediated regulatory arginine methylation of RIPK3. Cell Death Dis 2023; 9:14. [PMID: 36658119 PMCID: PMC9852244 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-023-01299-z] [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: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
The TNF receptor-interacting protein kinases (RIPK)-1 and 3 are regulators of extrinsic cell death response pathways, where RIPK1 makes the cell survival or death decisions by associating with distinct complexes mediating survival signaling, caspase activation or RIPK3-dependent necroptotic cell death in a context-dependent manner. Using a mass spectrometry-based screen to find new components of the ripoptosome/necrosome, we discovered the protein-arginine methyltransferase (PRMT)-5 as a direct interaction partner of RIPK1. Interestingly, RIPK3 but not RIPK1 was then found to be a target of PRMT5-mediated symmetric arginine dimethylation. A conserved arginine residue in RIPK3 (R486 in human, R415 in mouse) was identified as the evolutionarily conserved target for PRMT5-mediated symmetric dimethylation and the mutations R486A and R486K in human RIPK3 almost completely abrogated its methylation. Rescue experiments using these non-methylatable mutants of RIPK3 demonstrated PRMT5-mediated RIPK3 methylation to act as an efficient mechanism of RIPK3-mediated feedback control on RIPK1 activity and function. Therefore, this study reveals PRMT5-mediated RIPK3 methylation as a novel modulator of RIPK1-dependent signaling.
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3
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Wu T, Li N, Zhang Q, Liu R, Zhao H, Fan Z, Zhuo L, Yang Y, Xu Y. MKL1 fuels ROS-induced proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells by modulating FOXM1 transcription. Redox Biol 2022; 59:102586. [PMID: 36587486 PMCID: PMC9823229 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2022.102586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) promotes vascular injury and neointima formation in part by stimulating proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC). The underlying transcriptional mechanism, however, is not completely understood. Here we report that VSMC-specific deletion of MKL1 in mice suppressed neointima formation in a classic model of vascular injury. Likewise, pharmaceutical inhibition of MKL1 activity by CCG-1423 similarly mollified neointima formation in mice. Over-expression of a constitutively active MKL1 in vascular smooth muscle cells enhanced proliferation in a ROS-dependent manner. On the contrary, MKL1 depletion or inhibition attenuated VSMC proliferation. PCR array based screening identified forkhead box protein M1 (FOXM1) as a direct target for MKL1. MKL1 interacted with E2F1 to activate FOXM1 expression. Concordantly, FOXM1 depletion ameliorated MKL1-dependent VSMC proliferation. Of interest, ROS-induced MKL1 phosphorylation through MK2 was essential for its interaction with E2F1 and consequently FOXM1 trans-activation. Importantly, a positive correlation between FOXM1 expression and VSMC proliferation was identified in arterial specimens from patients with restenosis. Taken together, our data suggest that a redox-sensitive phosphorylation-switch of MKL1 activates FOXM1 transcription and mediates ROS fueled vascular smooth muscle proliferation. Targeting the MK-2/MKL1/FOXM1 axis may be considered as a reasonable approach for treatment of restenosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teng Wu
- Key Laboratory of Targeted Intervention of Cardiovascular Disease and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cardiovascular Translational Medicine, Department of Pathophysiology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Nan Li
- Department of Human Anatomy, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Qiumei Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Molecular and Medical Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ruiqi Liu
- Key Laboratory of Targeted Intervention of Cardiovascular Disease and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cardiovascular Translational Medicine, Department of Pathophysiology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hongwei Zhao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Molecular and Medical Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhiwen Fan
- Department of Pathology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Affiliated with Nanjing University School of Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Lili Zhuo
- Department of Geriatrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.
| | - Yuyu Yang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Molecular and Medical Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, China; Institute of Biomedical Research and College of Life Sciences, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng, China.
| | - Yong Xu
- Key Laboratory of Targeted Intervention of Cardiovascular Disease and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cardiovascular Translational Medicine, Department of Pathophysiology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China; Institute of Biomedical Research and College of Life Sciences, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng, China.
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4
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Wang Y, Mack JA, Hascall VC, Maytin EV. Transforming Growth Factor-β Receptor-Mediated, p38 Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase-Dependent Signaling Drives Enhanced Myofibroblast Differentiation during Skin Wound Healing in Mice Lacking Hyaluronan Synthases 1 and 3. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2022; 192:1683-1698. [PMID: 36063901 PMCID: PMC9765314 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2022.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Revised: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Normal myofibroblast differentiation is critical for proper skin wound healing. Neoexpression of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), a marker for myofibroblast differentiation, is driven by transforming growth factor (TGF)-β receptor-mediated signaling. Hyaluronan and its three synthesizing enzymes, hyaluronan synthases (Has 1, 2, and 3), also participate in this process. Closure of skin wounds is significantly accelerated in Has1/3 double-knockout (Has1/3-null) mice. Herein, TGF-β activity and dermal collagen maturation were increased in Has1/3-null healing skin. Cultures of primary skin fibroblasts isolated from Has1/3-null mice had higher levels of TGF-β activity, α-SMA expression, and phosphorylation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase at Thr180/Tyr182, compared with wild-type fibroblasts. p38α mitogen-activated protein kinase was a necessary element in a noncanonical TGF-β receptor signaling pathway driving α-SMA expression in Has1/3-null fibroblasts. Myocardin-related transcription factor (MRTF), a cofactor that binds to the transcription factor serum response factor (SRF), was also critical. Nuclear localization of MRTF was increased, and MRTF binding to SRF was enhanced in Has1/3-null fibroblasts. Inhibition of MRTF or SRF expression by RNA interference suppresses α-SMA expression at baseline and diminished its overexpression in Has1/3-null fibroblasts. Interestingly, total matrix metalloproteinase activity was increased in healing skin and fibroblasts from Has1/3-null mice, possibly explaining the increased TGF-β activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Wang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Cleveland Clinic Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland, Ohio.
| | - Judith A Mack
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Cleveland Clinic Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland, Ohio; Department of Dermatology, Dermatology and Plastic Surgery Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Vincent C Hascall
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Cleveland Clinic Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Edward V Maytin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Cleveland Clinic Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland, Ohio; Department of Dermatology, Dermatology and Plastic Surgery Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio.
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5
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An R. MRTF may be the missing link in a multiscale mechanobiology approach toward macrophage dysfunction in space. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:997365. [PMID: 36172272 PMCID: PMC9510870 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.997365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Macrophages exhibit impaired phagocytosis, adhesion, migration, and cytokine production in space, hindering their ability to elicit immune responses. Considering that the combined effect of spaceflight microgravity and radiation is multiscale and multifactorial in nature, it is expected that contradictory findings are common in the field. This theory paper reanalyzes research on the macrophage spaceflight response across multiple timescales from seconds to weeks, and spatial scales from the molecular, intracellular, extracellular, to the physiological. Key findings include time-dependence of both pro-inflammatory activation and integrin expression. Here, we introduce the time-dependent, intracellular localization of MRTF-A as a hypothetical confounder of macrophage activation. We discuss the mechanosensitive MRTF-A/SRF pathway dependence on the actin cytoskeleton/nucleoskeleton, microtubules, membrane mechanoreceptors, hypoxia, oxidative stress, and intracellular/extracellular crosstalk. By adopting a multiscale perspective, this paper provides the first mechanistic answer for a three-decade-old question regarding impaired cytokine secretion in microgravity—and strengthens the connection between the recent advances in mechanobiology, microgravity, and the spaceflight immune response. Finally, we hypothesize MRTF involvement and complications in treating spaceflight-induced cardiovascular, skeletal, and immune disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rocky An
- Department of Biological and Environmental Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States
- Sibley School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States
- *Correspondence: Rocky An,
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6
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Ding Q, Wang GJ, Xue LF, Yue J, Xu YX, Fu ZZ, Xiao WL. p38MAPK silencing attenuates scar proliferation after cleft palate repair surgery in rats via MRTF-A/SRF pathway. Exp Cell Res 2022; 417:113248. [PMID: 35690133 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2022.113248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2021] [Revised: 06/05/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Scarring is the primary factor of maxilla growth restriction among people who have undergone cleft palate repair surgery. p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38MAPK) promotes fibrosis in a variety of organs. However, its role in post-surgery scarring on the hard palate has not been fully understood. This study is designed to investigate the role of p38MAPK in scar formation and maxilla growth of rats. We removed the mucosa on the hard palate of rats and applied the p38MAPK silencing adenovirus vector on it two weeks after surgery. Then the scarring tissue and maxilla growth were evaluated by histological and morphological examination. The effect of p38MAPK silencing on scarring-related genes in fibroblasts was also studied. We found that local injection of Ad-p38MAPK-1 in vivo effectively reduces the expression of p38MAPK and scarring-related proteins and weakens the impact of scarring on the width of the hard palate. Mechanistically, p38MAPK silencing inhibits the expression of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) via mediating the production and nuclear localization of myocardin-related transcription factor A (MRTF-A) in fibroblasts. These results reveal a molecular pathway of scar formation involving p38MAPK/MRTF-A stimulation and support targeting p38MAPK as a potentially effective treatment for post-surgery scarring on the hard palate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Ding
- Department of Stomatology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266003, China; School of Stomatology, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, 266071, China
| | - Gong-Jun Wang
- Department of Radiology Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences
| | - Ling-Fa Xue
- Department of Stomatology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266003, China; School of Stomatology, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, 266071, China
| | - Jin Yue
- Department of Stomatology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266003, China; School of Stomatology, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, 266071, China
| | - Yao-Xiang Xu
- Department of Stomatology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266003, China; School of Stomatology, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, 266071, China
| | - Zhen-Zhen Fu
- Department of Stomatology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266003, China; School of Stomatology, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, 266071, China
| | - Wen-Lin Xiao
- Department of Stomatology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266003, China; School of Stomatology, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, 266071, China.
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7
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Nalluri SM, Sankhe CS, O'Connor JW, Blanchard PL, Khouri JN, Phan SH, Virgi G, Gomez EW. Crosstalk between ERK and MRTF‐A signaling regulates TGFβ1‐induced epithelial‐mesenchymal transition. J Cell Physiol 2022; 237:2503-2515. [DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sandeep M. Nalluri
- Department of Chemical Engineering The Pennsylvania State University University Park Pennsylvania USA
| | - Chinmay S. Sankhe
- Department of Chemical Engineering The Pennsylvania State University University Park Pennsylvania USA
| | - Joseph W. O'Connor
- Department of Chemical Engineering The Pennsylvania State University University Park Pennsylvania USA
| | - Paul L. Blanchard
- Department of Chemical Engineering The Pennsylvania State University University Park Pennsylvania USA
| | - Joelle N. Khouri
- Department of Chemical Engineering The Pennsylvania State University University Park Pennsylvania USA
| | - Steven H. Phan
- Department of Chemical Engineering The Pennsylvania State University University Park Pennsylvania USA
| | - Gage Virgi
- Department of Chemical Engineering The Pennsylvania State University University Park Pennsylvania USA
| | - Esther W. Gomez
- Department of Chemical Engineering The Pennsylvania State University University Park Pennsylvania USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering The Pennsylvania State University University Park Pennsylvania USA
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8
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Abstract
Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)-activated protein kinases (MAPKAPKs) are defined by their exclusive activation by MAPKs. They can be activated by classical and atypical MAPKs that have been stimulated by mitogens and various stresses. Genetic deletions of MAPKAPKs and availability of highly specific small-molecule inhibitors have continuously increased our functional understanding of these kinases. MAPKAPKs cooperate in the regulation of gene expression at the level of transcription; RNA processing, export, and stability; and protein synthesis. The diversity of stimuli for MAPK activation, the cross talk between the different MAPKs and MAPKAPKs, and the specific substrate pattern of MAPKAPKs orchestrate immediate-early and inflammatory responses in space and time and ensure proper control of cell growth, differentiation, and cell behavior. Hence, MAPKAPKs are promising targets for cancer therapy and treatments for conditions of acute and chronic inflammation, such as cytokine storms and rheumatoid arthritis. Expected final online publication date for the Annual Review of Biochemistry, Volume 91 is June 2022. Please see http://www.annualreviews.org/page/journal/pubdates for revised estimates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Ronkina
- Institute of Cell Biochemistry, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany;
| | - Matthias Gaestel
- Institute of Cell Biochemistry, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany;
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9
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Morgan D, Berggren KL, Spiess CD, Smith HM, Tejwani A, Weir SJ, Lominska CE, Thomas SM, Gan GN. Mitogen-activated protein kinase-activated protein kinase-2 (MK2) and its role in cell survival, inflammatory signaling, and migration in promoting cancer. Mol Carcinog 2021; 61:173-199. [PMID: 34559922 DOI: 10.1002/mc.23348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2021] [Revised: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Cancer and the immune system share an intimate relationship. Chronic inflammation increases the risk of cancer occurrence and can also drive inflammatory mediators into the tumor microenvironment enhancing tumor growth and survival. The p38 MAPK pathway is activated both acutely and chronically by stress, inflammatory chemokines, chronic inflammatory conditions, and cancer. These properties have led to extensive efforts to find effective drugs targeting p38, which have been unsuccessful. The immediate downstream serine/threonine kinase and substrate of p38 MAPK, mitogen-activated-protein-kinase-activated-protein-kinase-2 (MK2) protects cells against stressors by regulating the DNA damage response, transcription, protein and messenger RNA stability, and motility. The phosphorylation of downstream substrates by MK2 increases inflammatory cytokine production, drives an immune response, and contributes to wound healing. By binding directly to p38 MAPK, MK2 is responsible for the export of p38 MAPK from the nucleus which gives MK2 properties that make it unique among the large number of p38 MAPK substrates. Many of the substrates of both p38 MAPK and MK2 are separated between the cytosol and nucleus and interfering with MK2 and altering this intracellular translocation has implications for the actions of both p38 MAPK and MK2. The inhibition of MK2 has shown promise in combination with both chemotherapy and radiotherapy as a method for controlling cancer growth and metastasis in a variety of cancers. Whereas the current data are encouraging the field requires the development of selective and well tolerated drugs to target MK2 and a better understanding of its effects for effective clinical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deri Morgan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, USA
| | - Kiersten L Berggren
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, Section of Radiation Oncology, UNM School of Medicine, The University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Colby D Spiess
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, USA
| | - Hannah M Smith
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, USA
| | - Ajay Tejwani
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, USA
| | - Scott J Weir
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, USA
| | - Christopher E Lominska
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, USA
| | - Sufi M Thomas
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, USA.,Department of Otolaryngology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, USA
| | - Gregory N Gan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, USA.,Department of Cancer Biology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, USA
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10
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Miranda MZ, Lichner Z, Szászi K, Kapus A. MRTF: Basic Biology and Role in Kidney Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22116040. [PMID: 34204945 PMCID: PMC8199744 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22116040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Revised: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
A lesser known but crucially important downstream effect of Rho family GTPases is the regulation of gene expression. This major role is mediated via the cytoskeleton, the organization of which dictates the nucleocytoplasmic shuttling of a set of transcription factors. Central among these is myocardin-related transcription factor (MRTF), which upon actin polymerization translocates to the nucleus and binds to its cognate partner, serum response factor (SRF). The MRTF/SRF complex then drives a large cohort of genes involved in cytoskeleton remodeling, contractility, extracellular matrix organization and many other processes. Accordingly, MRTF, activated by a variety of mechanical and chemical stimuli, affects a plethora of functions with physiological and pathological relevance. These include cell motility, development, metabolism and thus metastasis formation, inflammatory responses and—predominantly-organ fibrosis. The aim of this review is twofold: to provide an up-to-date summary about the basic biology and regulation of this versatile transcriptional coactivator; and to highlight its principal involvement in the pathobiology of kidney disease. Acting through both direct transcriptional and epigenetic mechanisms, MRTF plays a key (yet not fully appreciated) role in the induction of a profibrotic epithelial phenotype (PEP) as well as in fibroblast-myofibroblast transition, prime pathomechanisms in chronic kidney disease and renal fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Zena Miranda
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science of the St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, ON M5B 1W8, Canada; (M.Z.M.); (Z.L.); (K.S.)
| | - Zsuzsanna Lichner
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science of the St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, ON M5B 1W8, Canada; (M.Z.M.); (Z.L.); (K.S.)
| | - Katalin Szászi
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science of the St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, ON M5B 1W8, Canada; (M.Z.M.); (Z.L.); (K.S.)
- Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T 1P5, Canada
| | - András Kapus
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science of the St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, ON M5B 1W8, Canada; (M.Z.M.); (Z.L.); (K.S.)
- Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T 1P5, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
- Correspondence:
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11
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Wang Y, Mack JA, Maytin EV. CD44 inhibits α-SMA gene expression via a novel G-actin/MRTF-mediated pathway that intersects with TGFβR/p38MAPK signaling in murine skin fibroblasts. J Biol Chem 2019; 294:12779-12794. [PMID: 31285260 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra119.007834] [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: 01/30/2019] [Revised: 06/25/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Well-regulated differentiation of fibroblasts into myofibroblasts (MF) is critical for skin wound healing. Neoexpression of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), an established marker for MF differentiation, is driven by TGFβ receptor (TGFβR)-mediated signaling. Hyaluronan (HA) and its receptor CD44 may also participate in this process. To further understand this process, primary mouse skin fibroblasts were isolated and treated in vitro with recombinant TGF-β1 (rTGF-β1) to induce α-SMA expression. CD44 expression was also increased. Paradoxically, CD44 knockdown by RNA interference (RNAi) led to increased α-SMA expression and α-SMA-containing stress fibers. Removal of extracellular HA or inhibition of HA synthesis had no effect on α-SMA levels, suggesting a dispensable role for HA. Exploration of mechanisms linking CD44 knockdown to α-SMA induction, using RNAi and chemical inhibitors, revealed a requirement for noncanonical TGFβR signaling through p38MAPK. Decreased monomeric G-actin but increased filamentous F-actin following CD44 RNAi suggested a possible role for myocardin-related transcription factor (MRTF), a known regulator of α-SMA transcription and itself regulated by G-actin binding. CD44 RNAi promoted nuclear accumulation of MRTF and the binding to its transcriptional cofactor SRF. MRTF knockdown abrogated the increased α-SMA expression caused by CD44 RNAi, suggesting that MRTF is required for CD44-mediated regulation of α-SMA. Finally, chemical inhibition of p38MAPK reversed nuclear MRTF accumulation after rTGF-β1 addition or CD44 RNAi, revealing a central involvement of p38MAPK in both cases. We concluded that CD44 regulates α-SMA gene expression through cooperation between two intersecting signaling pathways, one mediated by G-actin/MRTF and the other via TGFβR/p38MAPK.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Wang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio 44195
| | - Judith A Mack
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio 44195.,Department of Dermatology, Dermatology and Plastic Surgery Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio 44195
| | - Edward V Maytin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio 44195 .,Department of Dermatology, Dermatology and Plastic Surgery Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio 44195
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12
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Sidorenko E, Vartiainen MK. Nucleoskeletal regulation of transcription: Actin on MRTF. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2019; 244:1372-1381. [PMID: 31142145 DOI: 10.1177/1535370219854669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Myocardin-related transcription factor A (MRTF-A) and serum response factor (SRF) form an essential transcriptional complex that regulates the expression of many cytoskeletal genes in response to dynamic changes in the actin cytoskeleton. The nucleoskeleton, a “dynamic network of networks,” consists of numerous proteins that contribute to nuclear shape and to its various functions, including gene expression. In this review, we will discuss recent work that has identified many nucleoskeletal proteins, such as nuclear lamina and lamina-associated proteins, nuclear actin, and the linker of the cytoskeleton and nucleoskeleton complex as important regulators of MRTF-A/SRF transcriptional activity, especially in the context of mechanical control of transcription. Impact statement Regulation of gene expression is a fundamental cellular process that ensures the appropriate response of a cell to its surroundings. Alongside biochemical signals, mechanical cues, such as substrate rigidity, have been recognized as key regulators of gene expression. Nucleoskeletal components play an important role in mechanoresponsive transcription, particularly in controlling the activity of MRTF-A/SRF transcription factors. This ensures that the cell can balance the internal and external mechanical forces by fine-tuning the expression of cytoskeletal genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ekaterina Sidorenko
- Institute of Biotechnology, Helsinki Institute of Life Science, University of Helsinki, Helsinki 00014, Finland
| | - Maria K Vartiainen
- Institute of Biotechnology, Helsinki Institute of Life Science, University of Helsinki, Helsinki 00014, Finland
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13
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HADC5 deacetylates MKL1 to dampen TNF-α induced pro-inflammatory gene transcription in macrophages. Oncotarget 2017; 8:94235-94246. [PMID: 29212224 PMCID: PMC5706870 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.21670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2017] [Accepted: 09/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Macrophage-dependent inflammatory response on the one hand functions as a key line of defense in host immunity but on the other hand underlies the pathogenesis of a host of human pathologies when aberrantly activated. Our previous investigations have led to the identification of megakaryocytic leukemia 1 (MKL1) as a key co-factor of NF-κB/p65 participating in TNF-α induced pro-inflammatory transcription in macrophages. How post-translational modifications contribute to the modulation of MKL1 activity remains an underexplored subject matter. Here we report that the lysine deacetylase HDAC5 interacts with and deacetylates MKL1 in cells. TNF-α treatment down-regulates HDAC5 expression and expels HDAC5 from the promoters of pro-inflammatory genes in macrophages. In contrast, over-expression of HDAC5 attenuates TNF-α induced pro-inflammatory transcription. Mechanistically, HDAC5-mediated MKL1 deacetylation disrupts the interaction between MKL1 and p65. In addition, deacetylation of MKL1 by HDAC5 blocks its nuclear translocation in response to TNF-α treatment. In conclusion, our work has identified an important pathway that contributes to the regulation of pro-inflammatory response in macrophages.
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14
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Miranda MZ, Bialik JF, Speight P, Dan Q, Yeung T, Szászi K, Pedersen SF, Kapus A. TGF-β1 regulates the expression and transcriptional activity of TAZ protein via a Smad3-independent, myocardin-related transcription factor-mediated mechanism. J Biol Chem 2017; 292:14902-14920. [PMID: 28739802 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m117.780502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2017] [Revised: 06/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Hippo pathway transcriptional coactivators TAZ and YAP and the TGF-β1 (TGFβ) effector Smad3 regulate a common set of genes, can physically interact, and exhibit multilevel cross-talk regulating cell fate-determining and fibrogenic pathways. However, a key aspect of this cross-talk, TGFβ-mediated regulation of TAZ or YAP expression, remains uncharacterized. Here, we show that TGFβ induces robust TAZ but not YAP protein expression in both mesenchymal and epithelial cells. TAZ levels, and to a lesser extent YAP levels, also increased during experimental kidney fibrosis. Pharmacological or genetic inhibition of Smad3 did not prevent the TGFβ-induced TAZ up-regulation, indicating that this canonical pathway is dispensable. In contrast, inhibition of p38 MAPK, its downstream effector MK2 (e.g. by the clinically approved antifibrotic pirferidone), or Akt suppressed the TGFβ-induced TAZ expression. Moreover, TGFβ elevated TAZ mRNA in a p38-dependent manner. Myocardin-related transcription factor (MRTF) was a central mediator of this effect, as MRTF silencing/inhibition abolished the TGFβ-induced TAZ expression. MRTF overexpression drove the TAZ promoter in a CC(A/T-rich)6GG (CArG) box-dependent manner and induced TAZ protein expression. TGFβ did not act by promoting nuclear MRTF translocation; instead, it triggered p38- and MK2-mediated, Nox4-promoted MRTF phosphorylation and activation. Functionally, higher TAZ levels increased TAZ/TEAD-dependent transcription and primed cells for enhanced TAZ activity upon a second stimulus (i.e. sphingosine 1-phosphate) that induced nuclear TAZ translocation. In conclusion, our results uncover an important aspect of the cross-talk between TGFβ and Hippo signaling, showing that TGFβ induces TAZ via a Smad3-independent, p38- and MRTF-mediated and yet MRTF translocation-independent mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Zena Miranda
- From the Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science of the St. Michael's Hospital.,Biochemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5B 1T8N, Canada and
| | - Janne Folke Bialik
- From the Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science of the St. Michael's Hospital.,the Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen DK-2100, Denmark
| | - Pam Speight
- From the Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science of the St. Michael's Hospital
| | - Qinghong Dan
- From the Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science of the St. Michael's Hospital
| | - Tony Yeung
- From the Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science of the St. Michael's Hospital
| | - Katalin Szászi
- From the Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science of the St. Michael's Hospital.,Departments of Surgery and
| | - Stine F Pedersen
- the Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen DK-2100, Denmark
| | - András Kapus
- From the Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science of the St. Michael's Hospital, .,Biochemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5B 1T8N, Canada and.,Departments of Surgery and
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15
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Feng T, Chen W, Zhang C, Xiang J, Ding H, Wu L, Geng D. The p38/CYLD Pathway is Involved in Necroptosis Induced by Oxygen-glucose Deprivation Combined with ZVAD in Primary Cortical Neurons. Neurochem Res 2017; 42:2294-2304. [PMID: 28374134 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-017-2244-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2016] [Revised: 02/05/2017] [Accepted: 03/22/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Recently, necroptosis, a form of programmed necrosis, has been widely studied. It has previously been shown that knockout of lysine 63 deubiquitinase CYLD significantly inhibits necroptosis in other cell lines, and serum response factor (SRF) could regulate CYLD gene expression through p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK). In the following study, we show oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD) combined with a caspase inhibitor, ZVAD (OGD/ZVAD), induced CYLD protein expression in a time-dependent manner. Immunofluorescence studies showed that CYLD was localized strongly to the nucleus and weakly to the cytoplasm of neurons. The expression of CYLD in the cytoplasm, but not in the nucleus, was increased significantly upon OGD treatment. SB203580 (a p38 MAPK inhibitor) protected against neuronal injury induced by OGD/ZVAD treatment. More importantly, SB203580 decreased CYLD protein levels by inhibiting SRF phosphorylation and indirectly prevented SRF from binding to a CYLD promoter. We also found that cells with knockdown of SRF by short interfering RNA in a lentivirus vector tolerated OGD/ZVAD-induced necroptosis, when the expression of CYLD protein decreased. The results show that SB203580 prevented necroptosis induced by OGD/ZVAD injury by blocking a p38/CYLD dependent pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Feng
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - WeiWei Chen
- Department of Neurology, The Fourth Hospital of Xuzhou, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - CaiYi Zhang
- Department of Psychiatry, The Eastern Hospital of Xuzhou, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jie Xiang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - HongMei Ding
- Department of Neurology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, 221002, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - LianLian Wu
- Department of Neurobiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - DeQin Geng
- Department of Neurology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, 221002, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China.
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