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Deng J, Martin S, Searl T, Ohlander S, Harrington DA, McVary KT, Podlasek CA. SHH regulates penile morphology and smooth muscle through a mechanism involving BMP4 and GREM1. J Sex Med 2024; 21:379-390. [PMID: 38451321 PMCID: PMC11063416 DOI: 10.1093/jsxmed/qdae016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 12/30/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The cavernous nerve (CN) is frequently damaged in prostatectomy and diabetic patients with erectile dysfunction (ED), initiating changes in penile morphology including an acute and intense phase of apoptosis in penile smooth muscle and increased collagen, which alter penile architecture and make corpora cavernosa smooth muscle less able to relax in response to neurotransmitters, resulting in ED. AIM Sonic hedgehog (SHH) is a critical regulator of penile smooth muscle, and SHH treatment suppresses penile remodeling after CN injury through an unknown mechanism; we examine if part of the mechanism of how SHH preserves smooth muscle after CN injury involves bone morphogenetic protein 4 (BMP4) and gremlin1 (GREM1). METHODS Primary cultures of smooth muscle cells were established from prostatectomy, diabetic, hypertension and Peyronie's (control) (N = 18) patients. Cultures were characterized by ACTA2, CD31, P4HB, and nNOS immunohistochemical analysis. Patient smooth muscle cell growth was quantified in response to BMP4 and GREM1 treatment. Adult Sprague Dawley rats underwent 1 of 3 surgeries: (1) uninjured or CN-injured rats were treated with BMP4, GREM1, or mouse serum albumin (control) proteins via Affi-Gel beads (N = 16) or peptide amphiphile (PA) (N = 26) for 3 and 14 days, and trichrome stain was performed; (2) rats underwent sham (N = 3), CN injury (N = 9), or CN injury and SHH PA treatment for 1, 2, and 4 days (N = 9). OUTCOMES Western analysis for BMP4 and GREM1 was performed; (3) rats were treated with 5E1 SHH inhibitor (N = 6) or IgG (control; N = 6) for 2 and 4 days, and BMP4 and GREM1 localization was examined. Statistics were performed by analysis of variance with Scheffé's post hoc test. RESULTS BMP4 increased patient smooth muscle cell growth, and GREM1 decreased growth. In rats, BMP4 treatment via Affi-Gel beads and PA increased smooth muscle at 3 and 14 days of treatment. GREM1 treatment caused increased collagen and smooth muscle at 3 days, which switched to primarily collagen at 14 days. CN injury increased BMP4 and GREM1, while SHH PA altered Western band size, suggesting alternative cleavage and range of BMP4 and GREM1 signaling. SHH inhibition in rats increased BMP4 and GREM1 in fibroblasts. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS Understanding how SHH PA preserves and regenerates penile morphology after CN injury will aid development of ED therapies. STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS SHH treatment alters BMP4 and GREM1 localization and range of signaling, which can affect penile morphology. CONCLUSION Part of the mechanism of how SHH regulates corpora cavernosa smooth muscle involves BMP4 and GREM1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiangping Deng
- Department of Urology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
| | - Sarah Martin
- Department of Urology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
| | - Timothy Searl
- Department of Urology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
| | - Samuel Ohlander
- Department of Urology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
| | - Daniel A Harrington
- Department of Diagnostic and Biomedical Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, 77054, United States
| | - Kevin T McVary
- Department of Urology, Loyola University Stritch School of Medicine, Maywood, IL 60153, United States
| | - Carol A Podlasek
- Department of Urology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
- Department of Physiology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
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Gao Z, Houthuijzen JM, Ten Dijke P, Brazil DP. GREM1 signaling in cancer: tumor promotor and suppressor? J Cell Commun Signal 2023:10.1007/s12079-023-00777-4. [PMID: 37615860 DOI: 10.1007/s12079-023-00777-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
GREMLIN1 (GREM1) is member of a family of structurally and functionally related secreted cysteine knot proteins, which act to sequester and inhibit the action of multifunctional bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs). GREM1 binds directly to BMP dimers, thereby preventing BMP-mediated activation of BMP type I and type II receptors. Multiple reports identify the overexpression of GREM1 as a contributing factor in a broad range of cancers. Additionally, the GREM1 gene is amplified in a rare autosomal dominant inherited form of colorectal cancer. The inhibitory effects of GREM1 on BMP signaling have been linked to these tumor-promoting effects, including facilitating cancer cell stemness and the activation of cancer-associated fibroblasts. Moreover, GREM1 has been described to bind and signal to vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR) and stimulate angiogenesis, as well as epidermal and fibroblast growth factor receptor (EGFR and FGFR) to elicit tumor-promoting effects in breast and prostate cancer, respectively. In contrast, a 2022 report revealed that GREM1 can promote an epithelial state in pancreatic cancers, thereby inhibiting pancreatic tumor growth and metastasis. In this commentary, we will review these disparate findings and attempt to provide clarity around the role of GREM1 signaling in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhichun Gao
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Northern Ireland, BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Julia M Houthuijzen
- Oncode Institute, Division of Molecular Pathology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, Amsterdam, 1066 CX, The Netherlands
| | - Peter Ten Dijke
- Oncode Institute, Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Derek P Brazil
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Northern Ireland, BT9 7BL, UK.
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Hogwood J, Mulloy B, Lever R, Gray E, Page CP. Pharmacology of Heparin and Related Drugs: An Update. Pharmacol Rev 2023; 75:328-379. [PMID: 36792365 DOI: 10.1124/pharmrev.122.000684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Heparin has been used extensively as an antithrombotic and anticoagulant for close to 100 years. This anticoagulant activity is attributed mainly to the pentasaccharide sequence, which potentiates the inhibitory action of antithrombin, a major inhibitor of the coagulation cascade. More recently it has been elucidated that heparin exhibits anti-inflammatory effect via interference of the formation of neutrophil extracellular traps and this may also contribute to heparin's antithrombotic activity. This illustrates that heparin interacts with a broad range of biomolecules, exerting both anticoagulant and nonanticoagulant actions. Since our previous review, there has been an increased interest in these nonanticoagulant effects of heparin, with the beneficial role in patients infected with SARS2-coronavirus a highly topical example. This article provides an update on our previous review with more recent developments and observations made for these novel uses of heparin and an overview of the development status of heparin-based drugs. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: This state-of-the-art review covers recent developments in the use of heparin and heparin-like materials as anticoagulant, now including immunothrombosis observations, and as nonanticoagulant including a role in the treatment of SARS-coronavirus and inflammatory conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Hogwood
- Sackler Institute of Pulmonary Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, King's College London, London, United Kingdom (B.M., E.G., C.P.P.); National Institute for Biological Standards and Control, South Mimms, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom (J.H., E.G.) and School of Pharmacy, University College London, London, United Kingdom (R.L.)
| | - Barbara Mulloy
- Sackler Institute of Pulmonary Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, King's College London, London, United Kingdom (B.M., E.G., C.P.P.); National Institute for Biological Standards and Control, South Mimms, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom (J.H., E.G.) and School of Pharmacy, University College London, London, United Kingdom (R.L.)
| | - Rebeca Lever
- Sackler Institute of Pulmonary Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, King's College London, London, United Kingdom (B.M., E.G., C.P.P.); National Institute for Biological Standards and Control, South Mimms, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom (J.H., E.G.) and School of Pharmacy, University College London, London, United Kingdom (R.L.)
| | - Elaine Gray
- Sackler Institute of Pulmonary Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, King's College London, London, United Kingdom (B.M., E.G., C.P.P.); National Institute for Biological Standards and Control, South Mimms, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom (J.H., E.G.) and School of Pharmacy, University College London, London, United Kingdom (R.L.)
| | - Clive P Page
- Sackler Institute of Pulmonary Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, King's College London, London, United Kingdom (B.M., E.G., C.P.P.); National Institute for Biological Standards and Control, South Mimms, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom (J.H., E.G.) and School of Pharmacy, University College London, London, United Kingdom (R.L.)
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Grillo E, Ravelli C, Colleluori G, D'Agostino F, Domenichini M, Giordano A, Mitola S. Role of gremlin-1 in the pathophysiology of the adipose tissues. Cytokine Growth Factor Rev 2023; 69:51-60. [PMID: 36155165 DOI: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2022.09.004] [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: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Gremlin-1 is a secreted bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) antagonist playing a pivotal role in the regulation of tissue formation and embryonic development. Since its first identification in 1997, gremlin-1 has been shown to be a multifunctional factor involved in wound healing, inflammation, cancer and tissue fibrosis. Among others, the activity of gremlin-1 is mediated by its interaction with BMPs or with membrane receptors such as the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2) or heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs). Growing evidence has highlighted a central role of gremlin-1 in the homeostasis of the adipose tissue (AT). Of note, gremlin-1 is involved in AT dysfunction during type 2 diabetes, obesity and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) metabolic disorders. In this review we discuss recent findings on gremlin-1 involvement in AT biology, with particular attention to its role in metabolic diseases, to highlight its potential as a prognostic marker and therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Grillo
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy.
| | - Cosetta Ravelli
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Georgia Colleluori
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Marche Polytechnic University, Via Tronto 10/A, 60020 Ancona, Italy
| | - Francesco D'Agostino
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Mattia Domenichini
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Antonio Giordano
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Marche Polytechnic University, Via Tronto 10/A, 60020 Ancona, Italy
| | - Stefania Mitola
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
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Guvench O. Atomic-Resolution Experimental Structural Biology and Molecular Dynamics Simulations of Hyaluronan and Its Complexes. Molecules 2022; 27:7276. [PMID: 36364098 PMCID: PMC9658939 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27217276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2023] Open
Abstract
This review summarizes the atomic-resolution structural biology of hyaluronan and its complexes available in the Protein Data Bank, as well as published studies of atomic-resolution explicit-solvent molecular dynamics simulations on these and other hyaluronan and hyaluronan-containing systems. Advances in accurate molecular mechanics force fields, simulation methods and software, and computer hardware have supported a recent flourish in such simulations, such that the simulation publications now outnumber the structural biology publications by an order of magnitude. In addition to supplementing the experimental structural biology with computed dynamic and thermodynamic information, the molecular dynamics studies provide a wealth of atomic-resolution information on hyaluronan-containing systems for which there is no atomic-resolution structural biology either available or possible. Examples of these summarized in this review include hyaluronan pairing with other hyaluronan molecules and glycosaminoglycans, with ions, with proteins and peptides, with lipids, and with drugs and drug-like molecules. Despite limitations imposed by present-day computing resources on system size and simulation timescale, atomic-resolution explicit-solvent molecular dynamics simulations have been able to contribute significant insight into hyaluronan's flexibility and capacity for intra- and intermolecular non-covalent interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olgun Guvench
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Administration, School of Pharmacy, Westbrook College of Health Professions, University of New England, 716 Stevens Avenue, Portland, ME 04103, USA
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Mitola S, Ravelli C, Corsini M, Gianoncelli A, Galvagni F, Ballmer-Hofer K, Presta M, Grillo E. Production and Biochemical Characterization of Dimeric Recombinant Gremlin-1. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23031151. [PMID: 35163075 PMCID: PMC8835488 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23031151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Revised: 01/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Gremlin-1 is a secreted cystine-knot protein that acts as an antagonist of bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), and as a ligand of heparin and the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2), thus regulating several physiological and pathological processes, including embryonic development, tissue fibrosis and cancer. Gremlin-1 exerts all these biological activities only in its homodimeric form. Here, we propose a multi-step approach for the expression and purification of homodimeric, fully active, histidine-tagged recombinant gremlin-1, using mammalian HEK293T cells. Ion metal affinity chromatography (IMAC) of crude supernatant followed by heparin-affinity chromatography enables obtaining a highly pure recombinant dimeric gremlin-1 protein, exhibiting both BMP antagonist and potent VEGFR2 agonist activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Mitola
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (C.R.); (M.C.); (A.G.); (M.P.)
- Correspondence: (S.M.); (E.G.)
| | - Cosetta Ravelli
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (C.R.); (M.C.); (A.G.); (M.P.)
| | - Michela Corsini
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (C.R.); (M.C.); (A.G.); (M.P.)
| | - Alessandra Gianoncelli
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (C.R.); (M.C.); (A.G.); (M.P.)
| | - Federico Galvagni
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy;
| | - Kurt Ballmer-Hofer
- Biomolecular Research, Paul Scherrer Institute, 5232 Villigen, Switzerland;
| | - Marco Presta
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (C.R.); (M.C.); (A.G.); (M.P.)
| | - Elisabetta Grillo
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (C.R.); (M.C.); (A.G.); (M.P.)
- Correspondence: (S.M.); (E.G.)
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Correns A, Zimmermann LMA, Baldock C, Sengle G. BMP antagonists in tissue development and disease. Matrix Biol Plus 2021; 11:100071. [PMID: 34435185 PMCID: PMC8377005 DOI: 10.1016/j.mbplus.2021.100071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Revised: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Bone morphogenic proteins (BMPs) are important growth regulators in embryogenesis and postnatal homeostasis. Their tight regulation is crucial for successful embryonic development as well as tissue homeostasis in the adult organism. BMP inhibition by natural extracellular biologic antagonists represents the most intensively studied mechanistic concept of BMP growth factor regulation. It was shown to be critical for numerous developmental programs, including germ layer specification and spatiotemporal gradients required for the establishment of the dorsal-ventral axis and organ formation. The importance of BMP antagonists for extracellular matrix homeostasis is illustrated by the numerous human connective tissue disorders caused by their mutational inactivation. Here, we will focus on the known functional interactions targeting BMP antagonists to the ECM and discuss how these interactions influence BMP antagonist activity. Moreover, we will provide an overview about the current concepts and investigated molecular mechanisms modulating BMP inhibitor function in the context of development and disease.
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Key Words
- ALK3, anaplastic lymphoma kinase 3
- ATF2, activating transcription factor 2
- ActR, activin receptor
- BDB2, brachydactyly type B2
- BISC, BMP-induced signalling complex
- BMP antagonists
- BMPER, BMP binding endothelial regulator
- BMPs, bone morphogenetic proteins
- Bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)
- CAN, cerberus and DAN
- CDD, craniodiaphyseal dysplasia
- CHRD domain, chordin specific domain
- CUB domain, for complement C1r/C1s, Uegf, Bmp1 domain
- Connective tissue disorder
- Cv2, crossveinless-2
- DAN, differential screening selected gene aberrative in neuroblastoma
- DSD, diaphanospondylodysostosis
- Dpp, decapentaplegic
- ECM, extracellular matrix
- ERK, extracellular signal-regulated kinases
- Extracellular matrix (ECM)
- FMF, fibrillin microfibrils
- HS, heparan sulphate
- HSPGs, heparan sulphate proteoglycans
- MAPKs, mitogen-activated protein kinases
- MGC1, megalocornea 1
- PI3K, phosphoinositide 3-kinase
- PRDC, protein related to DAN and Cerberus
- SOST, sclerostin
- SYNS1, multiple synostoses syndrome 1
- Scw, screw
- Sog, short gastrulation
- TCC, tarsal-carpal coalition syndrome
- TGF-β, transforming growth factor- β
- Tld, tolloid
- Tsg, twisted gastrulation
- VBCH, Van Buchem disease
- Xlr/Tll, xolloid-related metalloprotease
- vWC, von Willebrand factor type C
- vWD, von Willebrand factor type D
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Affiliation(s)
- Annkatrin Correns
- Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937 Cologne, Germany
- Center for Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital of Cologne, Joseph-Stelzmann-Str. 52, 50931 Cologne, Germany
| | - Laura-Marie A. Zimmermann
- Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937 Cologne, Germany
- Center for Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital of Cologne, Joseph-Stelzmann-Str. 52, 50931 Cologne, Germany
| | - Clair Baldock
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, University of Manchester, B.3016 Michael Smith Building, Oxford Road, M13 9PT, Manchester, United Kingdom
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Michael Smith Building, M13 9PT, Manchester, UK
| | - Gerhard Sengle
- Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937 Cologne, Germany
- Center for Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital of Cologne, Joseph-Stelzmann-Str. 52, 50931 Cologne, Germany
- Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Robert-Koch-Str. 21, 50931 Cologne, Germany
- Cologne Centre for Musculoskeletal Biomechanics (CCMB), Joseph-Stelzmann-Str. 9, 50931 Cologne, Germany
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Pegge J, Tatsinkam AJ, Rider CC, Bell E. Heparan sulfate proteoglycans regulate BMP signalling during neural crest induction. Dev Biol 2019; 460:108-114. [PMID: 31883440 PMCID: PMC7196931 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2019.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2019] [Revised: 11/29/2019] [Accepted: 12/24/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signalling is key to many developmental processes, including early regionalisation of the ectoderm. The neural crest is induced here by a combination of BMP and Wnt signals from nearby tissues with many secreted factors contributing to its initial specification at the neural plate border. Gremlin 1 (Grem1) is a secreted BMP antagonist expressed in the neural crest in Xenopus laevis but its function here is unknown. As well as binding BMPs, Grem1 has been shown to interact with heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs), a family of cell surface macromolecules that regulate a diverse array of signalling molecules by affecting their availability and mode of action. This study describes the impact of HSPGs on the function of Grem1 in neural crest induction. It shows for the first time that Grem1 is required for neural crest development in a two-step process comprising an early HSPG-independent, followed by a late HSPG-dependent phase.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Pegge
- Centre for Developmental Neurobiology, King's College London, Guy's Campus, London, SE1 1UL, UK
| | - Arnold Junior Tatsinkam
- Centre for Biomedical Sciences, Royal Holloway University of London, Egham Hill, Egham, Surrey, TW20 0EX, UK
| | - Christopher C Rider
- Centre for Biomedical Sciences, Royal Holloway University of London, Egham Hill, Egham, Surrey, TW20 0EX, UK
| | - Esther Bell
- Centre for Developmental Neurobiology, King's College London, Guy's Campus, London, SE1 1UL, UK.
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Ran A, Guan L, Wang J, Wang Y. GREM2 maintains stem cell-like phenotypes in gastric cancer cells by regulating the JNK signaling pathway. Cell Cycle 2019; 18:2414-2431. [PMID: 31345097 DOI: 10.1080/15384101.2019.1646561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the major malignancies worldwide. This study was conducted to explore the mechanism by which GREM2 maintains biological properties of GC stem cells (GCSCs), and proved that GREM2 could potentially regulate the proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, migration and tumorigenic ability of GCSCs through the regulation of the JNK signaling pathway. In silico analysis was utilized to retrieve expression microarray related to GC, and differential analysis was conducted. The cell line with the highest GREM2 expression was overexpressed with GREM2 mimic, silencing GREM2 by siRNA, or treated with activator or inhibitor of the JNK signaling pathway. Subsequently, expression of GREM2, JNK signaling pathway-, apoptosis- or migration and invasion-associated factors were determined. Proliferation, migration, invasion, apoptosis of GCSCs in vitro and tumorigenic ability and lymph node metastasis of GCSCs in vivo were determined. Based on the in silico analysis of GSE49051, GREM2 was determined to be overexpressed in GC and its expression was the highest in the MKN-45 cell line, which was selected for the subsequent experiments. Silencing of GREM2 or inhibition of the JNK signaling pathway suppressed the proliferation, migration and invasion, while promoting apoptosis of GCSCs in vitro as well as inhibiting tumorigenesis and lymph node metastasis in vivo. In conclusion, the aforementioned findings suggest that the silencing of GREM2 suppresses the activation of the JNK signaling pathway, thereby inhibiting tumor progression. Therefore, GREM2-mediated JNK signaling pathway was expected to be a new therapeutic strategy for GC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ao Ran
- The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University , Shenyang , P.R. China
| | - Lin Guan
- The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University , Shenyang , P.R. China
| | - Jiani Wang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University , Shenyang , P.R. China
| | - Ying Wang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University , Shenyang , P.R. China
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Zhu J, Xia K, Yu W, Wang Y, Hua J, Liu B, Gong Z, Wang J, Xu A, You Z, Chen Q, Li F, Tao H, Liang C. Sustained release of GDF5 from a designed coacervate attenuates disc degeneration in a rat model. Acta Biomater 2019; 86:300-311. [PMID: 30660009 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2019.01.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2018] [Revised: 12/23/2018] [Accepted: 01/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Low back pain is often caused by intervertebral disc degeneration, which is characterized by nucleus pulposus (NP) and extracellular matrix (ECM) degeneration. Human adipose-derived stem cells (hADSCs) induced by growth and differentiation factor-5 (GDF5) can differentiate into an NP-like phenotype. Although stem cell-based therapy with prolonged exposure to growth factors is regarded as a promising treatment, the efficacy of this approach in attenuating the disc degeneration process is limited by the short lifespan of growth factors. In our study, a unique growth factor delivery vehicle composed of heparin and the synthetic polycation poly(ethylene argininylaspartate diglyceride) (PEAD) was used to sustain GDF5 release. The results showed that sustained release of GDF5 by the PEAD:heparin delivery system promoted hADSC differentiation to an NP-like phenotype in vitro. After injection of the PEAD:heparin:GDF5 delivery platform and hADSCs into intervertebral spaces of coccygeal (Co) vertebrae Co7/Co8 and Co8/Co9 of the rat, the disc height, water content, and structure of the NPs decreased more slowly than other treatment groups. This new strategy may be used as an alternative treatment for attenuating intervertebral disc degeneration with hADSCs without the need for gene therapy. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Low back pain is often caused by intervertebral disc degeneration, which is characterized by nucleus pulposus (NP) and extracellular matrix (ECM) degeneration. Human adipose-derived stem cells (hADSCs) induced by growth and differentiation factor-5 (GDF-5) can differentiate into an NP-like phenotype. Although stem cell-based therapy with prolonged exposure to growth factor is regarded as a promising treatment, the efficacy of this approach in the disc regeneration process is limited by the short life of growth factors. In our study, a unique growth factor delivery vehicle comprised of heparin and the synthetic polycation poly(ethylene argininylaspartate diglyceride) (PEAD) was used to sustain the release of GDF-5. Numerous groups have explored IDD regeneration methods in vitro and in vivo. Our study differs in that GDF5 was incorporated into a vehicle through charge attraction and exhibited a sustained release profile. Moreover, GDF-5 seeded coacervate combined with hADSC injection could be a minimally invasive approach for tissue engineering that is suitable for clinical application. We investigated the stimulatory effects of our GDF-5 seeded coacervate on the differentiation of ADSCs in vitro and the reparative effect of the delivery system on degenerated NP in vivo.
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Batool T, Fang J, Jansson V, Zhao H, Gallant C, Moustakas A, Li JP. Upregulated BMP-Smad signaling activity in the glucuronyl C5-epimerase knock out MEF cells. Cell Signal 2019; 54:122-129. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2018.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2018] [Revised: 11/14/2018] [Accepted: 11/14/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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Rowan SC, Piouceau L, Cornwell J, Li L, McLoughlin P. EXPRESS: Gremlin1 blocks vascular endothelial growth factor signalling in the pulmonary microvascular endothelium. Pulm Circ 2018; 10:2045894018807205. [PMID: 30284507 PMCID: PMC7066471 DOI: 10.1177/2045894018807205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2018] [Accepted: 09/20/2018] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) antagonist gremlin 1 plays a central role in the pathogenesis of hypoxic pulmonary hypertension (HPH). Recently, non-canonical functions of gremlin 1 have been identified, including specific binding to the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 (VEGFR2). We tested the hypothesis that gremlin 1 modulates VEGFR2 signaling in the pulmonary microvascular endothelium. We examined the effect of gremlin 1 haploinsufficiency on the expression of VEGF responsive genes and proteins in the hypoxic (10% O2) murine lung in vivo. Using human microvascular endothelial cells in vitro we examined the effect of gremlin 1 on VEGF signaling. Gremlin 1 haploinsufficiency (Grem1+/–) attenuated the hypoxia-induced increase in gremlin 1 observed in the wild-type mouse lung. Reduced gremlin 1 expression in hypoxic Grem1+/– mice restored VEGFR2 expression and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) expression and activity to normoxic values. Recombinant monomeric gremlin 1 inhibited VEGFA-induced VEGFR2 activation, downstream signaling, and VEGF-induced increases in Bcl-2, cell number, and the anti-apoptotic effect of VEGFA in vitro. These results show that the monomeric form of gremlin 1 acts as an antagonist of VEGFR2 activation in the pulmonary microvascular endothelium. Given the previous demonstration that inhibition of VEGFR2 causes marked worsening of HPH, our results suggest that increased gremlin 1 in the hypoxic lung, in addition to blocking BMP receptor type-2 (BMPR2) signaling, contributes importantly to the development of PH by a non-canonical VEGFR2 blocking activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon C. Rowan
- UCD School of Medicine and Conway Institute,
University
College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Lucie Piouceau
- UCD School of Medicine and Conway Institute,
University
College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Joanna Cornwell
- UCD School of Medicine and Conway Institute,
University
College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Lili Li
- UCD School of Medicine and Conway Institute,
University
College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Paul McLoughlin
- UCD School of Medicine and Conway Institute,
University
College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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13
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Sankaranarayanan NV, Nagarajan B, Desai UR. So you think computational approaches to understanding glycosaminoglycan-protein interactions are too dry and too rigid? Think again! Curr Opin Struct Biol 2018; 50:91-100. [PMID: 29328962 PMCID: PMC6037615 DOI: 10.1016/j.sbi.2017.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2017] [Revised: 11/17/2017] [Accepted: 12/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) play key roles in virtually all biologic responses through their interaction with proteins. A major challenge in understanding these roles is their massive structural complexity. Computational approaches are extremely useful in navigating this bottleneck and, in some cases, the only avenue to gain comprehensive insight. We discuss the state-of-the-art on computational approaches and present a flowchart to help answer most basic, and some advanced, questions on GAG-protein interactions. For example, firstly, does my protein bind to GAGs?; secondly, where does the GAG bind?; thirdly, does my protein preferentially recognize a particular GAG type?; fourthly, what is the most optimal GAG chain length?; fifthly, what is the structure of the most favored GAG sequence?; and finally, is my GAG-protein system 'specific', 'non-specific', or a combination of both? Recent advances show the field is now poised to enable a non-computational researcher perform advanced experiments through the availability of various tools and online servers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nehru Viji Sankaranarayanan
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry & Institute for Structural Biology, Drug Discovery and Development, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Balaji Nagarajan
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry & Institute for Structural Biology, Drug Discovery and Development, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Umesh R Desai
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry & Institute for Structural Biology, Drug Discovery and Development, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA.
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14
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Garnier P, Mummery R, Forster MJ, Mulloy B, Gibbs RV, Rider CC. The localisation of the heparin binding sites of human and murine interleukin-12 within the carboxyterminal domain of the P40 subunit. Cytokine 2018; 110:159-168. [PMID: 29753267 PMCID: PMC6109204 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2018.04.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2018] [Revised: 04/11/2018] [Accepted: 04/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
We demonstrate differences in the specificity of heparin binding between human and murine IL-12s. Heparin predominantly protects the p40 subunit against proteolysis by LysC. A truncated IL-12 polypeptide lacking the carboxyterminal D3 domain fails to bind heparin. The C′D′ loop of the D3 domain contains a large cluster of surface accessible basic residues. This loop is the region of greatest sequence variation between murine and human p40s.
We have previously shown that the heterodimeric cytokine interleukin-12, and the homodimer of its larger subunit p40, both bind to heparin and heparan sulfate with relatively high affinity. In the present study we characterised these interactions using a series of chemically modified heparins as competitive inhibitors. Human interleukin-12 and p40 homodimer show indistinguishable binding profiles with a panel of heparin derivatives, but that of murine interleukin-12 is distinct. Heparin markedly protects the human and murine p40 subunits, but not the p35 subunits, from cleavage by the bacterial endoprotease LysC, further implicating the larger subunit as the location of the heparin binding site. Moreover the essential role of the carboxyterminal D3 domain in heparin binding is established by the failure of a truncated construct of the p40 subunit lacking this domain to bind. Predictive docking calculations indicate that a cluster of basic residues at the tip of the exposed C′D′ loop within D3 is important in heparin binding. However since the human and murine C′D′ loops differ considerably in length, the mode and three dimensional orientation of heparin binding are likely to differ substantially between the human and murine p40s. Thus overall the binding of IL-12 via its p40 subunit to heparin-related polysaccharides of the extracellular matrix appears to be functionally important since it has been conserved across mammalian species despite this structural divergence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pascale Garnier
- Centre for Biomedical Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, Royal Holloway University of London, Egham Hill, Egham, Surrey TW20 0EX, UK
| | - Rosemary Mummery
- Centre for Biomedical Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, Royal Holloway University of London, Egham Hill, Egham, Surrey TW20 0EX, UK
| | - Mark J Forster
- National Institute for Biological Standards and Control, Blanche Lane, South Mimms, Potters Bar, Herts EN6 3QG, UK; Scientific Computing Department, Daresbury Laboratory, Warrington, Cheshire WA4 4AD, UK(2)
| | - Barbara Mulloy
- Centre for Biomedical Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, Royal Holloway University of London, Egham Hill, Egham, Surrey TW20 0EX, UK; National Institute for Biological Standards and Control, Blanche Lane, South Mimms, Potters Bar, Herts EN6 3QG, UK
| | - Roslyn V Gibbs
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Portsmouth, White Swan Road, Portsmouth, Hants PO1 2DT, UK
| | - Christopher C Rider
- Centre for Biomedical Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, Royal Holloway University of London, Egham Hill, Egham, Surrey TW20 0EX, UK.
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15
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Grillo E, Ravelli C, Corsini M, Ballmer-Hofer K, Zammataro L, Oreste P, Zoppetti G, Tobia C, Ronca R, Presta M, Mitola S. Monomeric gremlin is a novel vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 antagonist. Oncotarget 2018; 7:35353-68. [PMID: 27174917 PMCID: PMC5085234 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.9286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2015] [Accepted: 03/31/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Angiogenesis plays a key role in various physiological and pathological conditions, including inflammation and tumor growth. The bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) antagonist gremlin has been identified as a novel pro-angiogenic factor. Gremlin promotes neovascular responses via a BMP-independent activation of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) receptor-2 (VEGFR2). BMP antagonists may act as covalent or non-covalent homodimers or in a monomeric form, while VEGFRs ligands are usually dimeric. However, the oligomeric state of gremlin and its role in modulating the biological activity of the protein remain to be elucidated. Here we show that gremlin is expressed in vitro and in vivo both as a monomer and as a covalently linked homodimer. Mutagenesis of amino acid residue Cys141 prevents gremlin dimerization leading to the formation of gremlinC141A monomers. GremlinC141A monomer retains a BMP antagonist activity similar to the wild-type dimer, but is devoid of a significant angiogenic capacity. Notably, we found that gremlinC141A mutant engages VEGFR2 in a non-productive manner, thus acting as receptor antagonist. Accordingly, both gremlinC141A and wild-type monomers inhibit angiogenesis driven by dimeric gremlin or VEGF-A165. Moreover, by acting as a VEGFR2 antagonist, gremlinC141A inhibits the angiogenic and tumorigenic potential of murine breast and prostate cancer cells in vivo. In conclusion, our data show that gremlin exists in multiple forms endowed with specific bioactivities and provide new insights into the molecular bases of gremlin dimerization. Furthermore, we propose gremlin monomer as a new inhibitor of VEGFR2 signalling during tumor growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Grillo
- Experimental Oncology and Immunology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, 25123, Italy
| | - Cosetta Ravelli
- Experimental Oncology and Immunology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, 25123, Italy
| | - Michela Corsini
- Experimental Oncology and Immunology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, National Institute of Neurosciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, 25123, Italy
| | - Kurt Ballmer-Hofer
- Biomolecular Research, Molecular Cell Biology, Paul Scherrer Institut, Villigen, 5232, Switzerland
| | - Luca Zammataro
- Center of Genomics Science of IIT@SEMM, Milan, 20139, Italy
| | | | | | - Chiara Tobia
- Experimental Oncology and Immunology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, 25123, Italy
| | - Roberto Ronca
- Experimental Oncology and Immunology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, 25123, Italy
| | - Marco Presta
- Experimental Oncology and Immunology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, 25123, Italy.,Experimental Oncology and Immunology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, National Institute of Neurosciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, 25123, Italy
| | - Stefania Mitola
- Experimental Oncology and Immunology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, 25123, Italy
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16
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Ayerst BI, Merry CLR, Day AJ. The Good the Bad and the Ugly of Glycosaminoglycans in Tissue Engineering Applications. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2017; 10:E54. [PMID: 28608822 PMCID: PMC5490411 DOI: 10.3390/ph10020054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2017] [Revised: 06/05/2017] [Accepted: 06/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
High sulfation, low cost, and the status of heparin as an already FDA- and EMA- approved product, mean that its inclusion in tissue engineering (TE) strategies is becoming increasingly popular. However, the use of heparin may represent a naïve approach. This is because tissue formation is a highly orchestrated process, involving the temporal expression of numerous growth factors and complex signaling networks. While heparin may enhance the retention and activity of certain growth factors under particular conditions, its binding 'promiscuity' means that it may also inhibit other factors that, for example, play an important role in tissue maintenance and repair. Within this review we focus on articular cartilage, highlighting the complexities and highly regulated processes that are involved in its formation, and the challenges that exist in trying to effectively engineer this tissue. Here we discuss the opportunities that glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) may provide in advancing this important area of regenerative medicine, placing emphasis on the need to move away from the common use of heparin, and instead focus research towards the utility of specific GAG preparations that are able to modulate the activity of growth factors in a more controlled and defined manner, with less off-target effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bethanie I Ayerst
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, Division of Cell-Matrix Biology & Regenerative Medicine, School of Biology, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester M13 9PL, UK.
| | - Catherine L R Merry
- Stem Cell Glycobiology Group, Wolfson Centre for Stem Cells, Tissue Engineering & Modelling (STEM), Centre for Biomolecular Sciences, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK.
| | - Anthony J Day
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, Division of Cell-Matrix Biology & Regenerative Medicine, School of Biology, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester M13 9PL, UK.
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17
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Rider CC, Mulloy B. Heparin, Heparan Sulphate and the TGF-β Cytokine Superfamily. Molecules 2017; 22:molecules22050713. [PMID: 28468283 PMCID: PMC6154108 DOI: 10.3390/molecules22050713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2017] [Revised: 04/24/2017] [Accepted: 04/26/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Of the circa 40 cytokines of the TGF-β superfamily, around a third are currently known to bind to heparin and heparan sulphate. This includes TGF-β1, TGF-β2, certain bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) and growth and differentiation factors (GDFs), as well as GDNF and two of its close homologues. Experimental studies of their heparin/HS binding sites reveal a diversity of locations around the shared cystine-knot protein fold. The activities of the TGF-β cytokines in controlling proliferation, differentiation and survival in a range of cell types are in part regulated by a number of specific, secreted BMP antagonist proteins. These vary in structure but seven belong to the CAN or DAN family, which shares the TGF-β type cystine-knot domain. Other antagonists are more distant members of the TGF-β superfamily. It is emerging that the majority, but not all, of the antagonists are also heparin binding proteins. Any future exploitation of the TGF-β cytokines in the therapy of chronic diseases will need to fully consider their interactions with glycosaminoglycans and the implications of this in terms of their bioavailability and biological activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chris C Rider
- Centre for Biomedical Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, Royal Holloway University of London, Egham, Surrey TW20 0EX, UK.
| | - Barbara Mulloy
- Centre for Biomedical Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, Royal Holloway University of London, Egham, Surrey TW20 0EX, UK.
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18
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Analysis and identification of the Grem2 heparin/heparan sulfate-binding motif. Biochem J 2017; 474:1093-1107. [PMID: 28104757 DOI: 10.1042/bcj20161050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2016] [Revised: 01/17/2017] [Accepted: 01/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) are regulated by extracellular antagonists of the DAN (differential screening-selected gene aberrative in neuroblastoma) family. Similar to the BMP ligands, certain DAN family members have been shown to interact with heparin and heparan sulfate (HS). Structural studies of DAN family members Gremlin-1 and Gremlin-2 (Grem2) have revealed a dimeric growth factor-like fold where a series of lysine residues cluster along one face of the protein. In the present study, we used mutagenesis, heparin-binding measurements, and cell surface-binding analysis to identify lysine residues that are important for heparin/HS binding in Grem2. We determined that residues involved in heparin/HS binding, while not necessary for BMP antagonism, merge with the heparin/HS-binding epitope of BMP2. Furthermore, the Grem2-BMP2 complex has higher affinity for heparin than the individual proteins and this affinity is not abrogated when the heparin/HS-binding epitope of Grem2 is attenuated. Overall, the present study shows that the Grem2 heparin/HS and BMP-binding epitopes are unique and independent, where, interestingly, the Grem2-BMP2 complex exhibits a significant increase in binding affinity toward heparin moieties that appear to be partially independent of the Grem2 heparin/HS-binding epitope.
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19
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Tatsinkam AJ, Rune N, Smith J, Norman JT, Mulloy B, Rider CC. The binding of the bone morphogenetic protein antagonist gremlin to kidney heparan sulfate: Such binding is not essential for BMP antagonism. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2017; 83:39-46. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2016.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2016] [Revised: 11/03/2016] [Accepted: 12/10/2016] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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20
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Esfandiari F, Ashtiani MK, Sharifi-Tabar M, Saber M, Daemi H, Ghanian MH, Shahverdi A, Baharvand H. Microparticle-Mediated Delivery of BMP4 for Generation of Meiosis-Competent Germ Cells from Embryonic Stem Cells. Macromol Biosci 2016; 17. [DOI: 10.1002/mabi.201600284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2016] [Revised: 08/17/2016] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Fereshteh Esfandiari
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology; Cell Science Research Center; Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology; ACECR; Tehran 1665659911 Iran
- Department of Developmental Biology; University of Science and Culture; Tehran 1461968151 Iran
| | - Mohammad Kazemi Ashtiani
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology; Cell Science Research Center; Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology; ACECR; Tehran 1665659911 Iran
| | - Mehdi Sharifi-Tabar
- Department of Molecular Systems Biology; Cell Science Research Center; Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology; ACECR; Tehran 1665659911 Iran
| | - Maryam Saber
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology; Cell Science Research Center; Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology; ACECR; Tehran 1665659911 Iran
| | - Hamed Daemi
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology; Cell Science Research Center; Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology; ACECR; Tehran 1665659911 Iran
| | - Mohammad Hossein Ghanian
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology; Cell Science Research Center; Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology; ACECR; Tehran 1665659911 Iran
| | - Abdolhossein Shahverdi
- Department of Embryology; Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center; Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine; ACECR; Tehran 1665659911 Iran
| | - Hossein Baharvand
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology; Cell Science Research Center; Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology; ACECR; Tehran 1665659911 Iran
- Department of Developmental Biology; University of Science and Culture; Tehran 1461968151 Iran
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21
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Asperti M, Stuemler T, Poli M, Gryzik M, Lifshitz L, Meyron-Holtz EG, Vlodavsky I, Arosio P. Heparanase Overexpression Reduces Hepcidin Expression, Affects Iron Homeostasis and Alters the Response to Inflammation. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0164183. [PMID: 27711215 PMCID: PMC5053418 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0164183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2016] [Accepted: 09/21/2016] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepcidin is the key regulator of systemic iron availability that acts by controlling the degradation of the iron exporter ferroportin. It is expressed mainly in the liver and regulated by iron, inflammation, erythropoiesis and hypoxia. The various agents that control its expression act mainly via the BMP6/SMAD signaling pathway. Among them are exogenous heparins, which are strong hepcidin repressors with a mechanism of action not fully understood but that may involve the competition with the structurally similar endogenous Heparan Sulfates (HS). To verify this hypothesis, we analyzed how the overexpression of heparanase, the HS degrading enzyme, modified hepcidin expression and iron homeostasis in hepatic cell lines and in transgenic mice. The results showed that transient and stable overexpression of heparanase in HepG2 cells caused a reduction of hepcidin expression and of SMAD5 phosphorylation. Interestingly, the clones showed also altered level of TfR1 and ferritin, indices of a modified iron homeostasis. The heparanase transgenic mice showed a low level of liver hepcidin, an increase of serum and liver iron with a decrease in spleen iron content. The hepcidin expression remained surprisingly low even after treatment with the inflammatory LPS. The finding that modification of HS structure mediated by heparanase overexpression affects hepcidin expression and iron homeostasis supports the hypothesis that HS participate in the mechanisms controlling hepcidin expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michela Asperti
- Molecular Biology laboratory, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine DMMT, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123, Brescia, Italy
| | - Tanja Stuemler
- Laboratory for Molecular Nutrition, Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Engineering, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Technion City, 32000, Haifa, Israel
| | - Maura Poli
- Molecular Biology laboratory, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine DMMT, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123, Brescia, Italy
| | - Magdalena Gryzik
- Molecular Biology laboratory, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine DMMT, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123, Brescia, Italy
| | - Lena Lifshitz
- Laboratory for Molecular Nutrition, Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Engineering, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Technion City, 32000, Haifa, Israel
| | - Esther G. Meyron-Holtz
- Laboratory for Molecular Nutrition, Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Engineering, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Technion City, 32000, Haifa, Israel
| | - Israel Vlodavsky
- Cancer and Vascular Biology Research Center, Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion- Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, 31096, Israel
| | - Paolo Arosio
- Molecular Biology laboratory, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine DMMT, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123, Brescia, Italy
- * E-mail:
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22
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Structure of Gremlin-1 and analysis of its interaction with BMP-2. Biochem J 2016; 473:1593-604. [PMID: 27036124 PMCID: PMC4888461 DOI: 10.1042/bcj20160254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2015] [Accepted: 04/01/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
We have determined the crystal structure of Gremlin-1 and analysed its interaction with BMP-2. Our results suggest that Gremlin-1 does not inhibit BMP-2 by direct 1:1 binding, but possibly has a novel mechanism of sequestering BMP-2 into a larger oligomeric complex. Bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP-2) is a member of the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signalling family and has a very broad biological role in development. Its signalling is regulated by many effectors: transmembrane proteins, membrane-attached proteins and soluble secreted antagonists such as Gremlin-1. Very little is known about the molecular mechanism by which Gremlin-1 and other DAN (differential screening-selected gene aberrative in neuroblastoma) family proteins inhibit BMP signalling. We analysed the interaction of Gremlin-1 with BMP-2 using a range of biophysical techniques, and used mutagenesis to map the binding site on BMP-2. We have also determined the crystal structure of Gremlin-1, revealing a similar conserved dimeric structure to that seen in other DAN family inhibitors. Measurements using biolayer interferometry (BLI) indicate that Gremlin-1 and BMP-2 can form larger complexes, beyond the expected 1:1 stoichiometry of dimers, forming oligomers that assemble in alternating fashion. These results suggest that inhibition of BMP-2 by Gremlin-1 occurs by a mechanism that is distinct from other known inhibitors such as Noggin and Chordin and we propose a novel model of BMP-2–Gremlin-1 interaction yet not seen among any BMP antagonists, and cannot rule out that several different oligomeric states could be found, depending on the concentration of the two proteins.
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