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Lith SC, Evers TMJ, Freire BM, van Tiel CM, Vos WG, Mashaghi A, de Vries CJM. Nuclear receptor Nur77 regulates immunomechanics of macrophages. Eur J Cell Biol 2024; 103:151419. [PMID: 38763048 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejcb.2024.151419] [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: 01/17/2024] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Nuclear receptor Nur77 plays a pivotal role in immune regulation across various tissues, influencing pro-inflammatory signaling pathways and cellular metabolism. While cellular mechanics have been implicated in inflammation, the contribution of Nur77 to these mechanical processes remains elusive. Macrophages exhibit remarkable plasticity in their morphology and mechanics, enabling them to adapt and execute essential inflammatory functions, such as navigating through inflamed tissue and pathogen engulfment. However, the precise regulatory mechanisms governing these dynamic changes in macrophage mechanics during inflammation remain poorly understood. To establish the potential correlation of Nur77 with cellular mechanics, we compared bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs) from wild-type (WT) and Nur77-deficient (Nur77-KO) mice and employed cytoskeletal imaging, single-cell acoustic force spectroscopy (AFS), migration and phagocytosis assays, and RNA-sequencing. Our findings reveal that Nur77-KO BMDMs exhibit changes to their actin networks compared to WT BMDMs, which is associated with a stiffer and more rigid phenotype. Subsequent in vitro experiments validated our observations, showcasing that Nur77 deficiency leads to enhanced migration, reduced adhesion, and increased phagocytic activity. The transcriptomics data confirmed altered mechanics-related pathways in Nur77-deficient macrophage that are accompanied by a robust pro-inflammatory phenotype. Utilizing previously obtained ChIP-data, we revealed that Nur77 directly targets differentially expressed genes associated with cellular mechanics. In conclusion, while Nur77 is recognized for its role in reducing inflammation of macrophages by inhibiting the expression of pro-inflammatory genes, our study identifies a novel regulatory mechanism where Nur77 governs macrophage inflammation through the modulation of expression of genes involved in cellular mechanics. Our findings suggest that immune regulation by Nur77 may be partially mediated through alterations in cellular mechanics, highlighting a potential avenue for therapeutic targeting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanne C Lith
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Department of Medical Biochemistry, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Amsterdam Institute for Immunology and Infectious diseases, University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Tom M J Evers
- Medical Systems Biophysics and Bioengineering, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Beatriz M Freire
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Department of Medical Biochemistry, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Amsterdam Institute for Immunology and Infectious diseases, University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Claudia M van Tiel
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Department of Medical Biochemistry, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Amsterdam Institute for Immunology and Infectious diseases, University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Winnie G Vos
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Department of Medical Biochemistry, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Amsterdam Institute for Immunology and Infectious diseases, University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Alireza Mashaghi
- Medical Systems Biophysics and Bioengineering, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands.
| | - Carlie J M de Vries
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Department of Medical Biochemistry, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Amsterdam Institute for Immunology and Infectious diseases, University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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2
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Shi W, Cassmann TJ, Bhagwate AV, Hitosugi T, Ip WKE. Lactic acid induces transcriptional repression of macrophage inflammatory response via histone acetylation. Cell Rep 2024; 43:113746. [PMID: 38329873 PMCID: PMC10957222 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.113746] [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: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 12/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Lactic acid has emerged as an important modulator of immune cell function. It can be produced by both gut microbiota and the host metabolism at homeostasis and during disease states. The production of lactic acid in the gut microenvironment is vital for tissue homeostasis. In the present study, we examined how lactic acid integrates cellular metabolism to shape the epigenome of macrophages during pro-inflammatory response. We found that lactic acid serves as a primary fuel source to promote histone H3K27 acetylation, which allows the expression of immunosuppressive gene program including Nr4a1. Consequently, macrophage pro-inflammatory function was transcriptionally repressed. Furthermore, the histone acetylation induced by lactic acid promotes a form of long-term immunosuppression ("trained immunosuppression"). Pre-exposure to lactic acid induces lipopolysaccharide tolerance. These findings thus indicate that lactic acid sensing and its effect on chromatin remodeling in macrophages represent a key homeostatic mechanism that can provide a tolerogenic tissue microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiwei Shi
- Department of Immunology, Mayo Clinic, 200 1st Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Tiffany J Cassmann
- Department of Immunology, Mayo Clinic, 200 1st Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Aditya Vijay Bhagwate
- Departments of Health Science Research, Mayo Clinic, 200 1st Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Taro Hitosugi
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Mayo Clinic, 200 1st Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - W K Eddie Ip
- Department of Immunology, Mayo Clinic, 200 1st Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA; Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, 200 1st Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
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3
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Upadhyay S, Hailemariam AE, Mariyam F, Hafiz Z, Martin G, Kothari J, Farkas E, Sivaram G, Bell L, Tjalkens R, Safe S. Bis-Indole Derivatives as Dual Nuclear Receptor 4A1 (NR4A1) and NR4A2 Ligands. Biomolecules 2024; 14:284. [PMID: 38540704 PMCID: PMC10967861 DOI: 10.3390/biom14030284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Bis-indole derived compounds such as 1,1-bis(3'-indolyl)-1-(3,5-disubstitutedphenyl) methane (DIM-3,5) and the corresponding 4-hydroxyl analogs (DIM8-3,5) are NR4A1 ligands that act as inverse NR4A1 agonists and are potent inhibitors of tumor growth. The high potency of several DIM-3,5 analogs (IC50 < 1 mg/kg/day), coupled with the >60% similarity of the ligand-binding domains (LBDs) of NR4A1 and NR4A2 and the pro-oncogenic activities of both receptors lead us to hypothesize that these compounds may act as dual NR4A1 and NR4A2 ligands. Using a fluorescence binding assay, it was shown that 22 synthetic DIM8-3,5 and DIM-3,5 analogs bound the LBD of NR4A1 and NR4A2 with most KD values in the low µM range. Moreover, the DIM-3,5 and DIM8-3,5 analogs also decreased NR4A1- and NR4A2-dependent transactivation in U87G glioblastoma cells transfected with GAL4-NR4A1 or GAL4-NR4A2 chimeras and a UAS-luciferase reporter gene construct. The DIM-3,5 and DIM8-3,5 analogs were cytotoxic to U87 glioblastoma and RKO colon cancer cells and the DIM-3,5 compounds were more cytotoxic than the DIM8-3,5 compounds. These studies show that both DIM-3,5 and DIM8-3,5 compounds previously identified as NR4A1 ligands bind both NR4A1 and NR4A2 and are dual NR4A1/2 ligands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Srijana Upadhyay
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA; (S.U.); (A.E.H.); (F.M.); (G.M.); (E.F.)
| | - Amanuel Esayas Hailemariam
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA; (S.U.); (A.E.H.); (F.M.); (G.M.); (E.F.)
| | - Fuada Mariyam
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA; (S.U.); (A.E.H.); (F.M.); (G.M.); (E.F.)
| | - Zahin Hafiz
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA; (Z.H.); (J.K.)
| | - Gregory Martin
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA; (S.U.); (A.E.H.); (F.M.); (G.M.); (E.F.)
| | - Jainish Kothari
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA; (Z.H.); (J.K.)
| | - Evan Farkas
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA; (S.U.); (A.E.H.); (F.M.); (G.M.); (E.F.)
| | - Gargi Sivaram
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA;
| | - Logan Bell
- Department of Chemistry, University of La Verne, La Verne, CA 91750, USA;
| | - Ronald Tjalkens
- Department of Environmental and Radiological Health Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80526, USA;
| | - Stephen Safe
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA; (S.U.); (A.E.H.); (F.M.); (G.M.); (E.F.)
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4
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Zhang T, Ma R, Li Z, Liu T, Yang S, Li N, Wang D. Nur77 alleviates cardiac fibrosis by upregulating GSK-3β transcription during aging. Eur J Pharmacol 2024; 965:176290. [PMID: 38158109 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2023.176290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Cardiac fibrosis is associated with aging, for which no targeted therapies are available. With aging, the levels of nerve growth factor-induced gene B (Nur77) are reduced during cardiac remodelling; however, its role in cardiac fibrosis in aging remains unclear. Here, we found that Nur77 knockout increased cardiac structure abnormalities, systolic and diastolic dysfunction, cardiac hypertrophy, and fibrotic marker expression in 15-month-old mice. Furthermore, Nur77 deficiency induced collagen type I (Col-1) and α-smooth muscle actin overproduction in transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) treated H9c2 cells, whereas Nur77 overexpression attenuated this effect. Nur77 deficiency in vivo and in vitro downregulated glycogen synthase kinase (GSK)-3β expression and increased β-catenin activity, while its overexpression increased GSK-3β expression. GSK-3β knockdown counteracted the anti-fibrotic effect of Nur77 on TGF-β-treated H9c2 cells. Chromatin immunoprecipitation and luciferase reporter assay results suggested GSK-3β as the direct target of Nur77. Our findings suggest that Nur77 directly initiates GSK-3β transcription and age-related cardiac fibrosis partly through the GSK-3β/β-catenin pathway. This study proposes a novel mechanism for Nur77 regulating cardiac fibrosis and suggests Nur77 as a target for the prevention and treatment of aging-associated cardiac fibrosis and heart failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiantian Zhang
- Department of Geriatrics, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning, People's Republic of China
| | - Ruzhe Ma
- Department of Gerontology and Geriatrics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhichi Li
- Department of Gerontology and Geriatrics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, People's Republic of China
| | - Tingting Liu
- Department of Geriatrics, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning, People's Republic of China
| | - Sijia Yang
- Department of Gerontology and Geriatrics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, People's Republic of China
| | - Na Li
- Department of Gerontology and Geriatrics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, People's Republic of China
| | - Difei Wang
- Department of Gerontology and Geriatrics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, People's Republic of China.
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Manickasamy MK, Sajeev A, BharathwajChetty B, Alqahtani MS, Abbas M, Hegde M, Aswani BS, Shakibaei M, Sethi G, Kunnumakkara AB. Exploring the nexus of nuclear receptors in hematological malignancies. Cell Mol Life Sci 2024; 81:78. [PMID: 38334807 PMCID: PMC10858172 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-023-05085-z] [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: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
Hematological malignancies (HM) represent a subset of neoplasms affecting the blood, bone marrow, and lymphatic systems, categorized primarily into leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma. Their prognosis varies considerably, with a frequent risk of relapse despite ongoing treatments. While contemporary therapeutic strategies have extended overall patient survival, they do not offer cures for advanced stages and often lead to challenges such as acquisition of drug resistance, recurrence, and severe side effects. The need for innovative therapeutic targets is vital to elevate both survival rates and patients' quality of life. Recent research has pivoted towards nuclear receptors (NRs) due to their role in modulating tumor cell characteristics including uncontrolled proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis evasion, invasion and migration. Existing evidence emphasizes NRs' critical role in HM. The regulation of NR expression through agonists, antagonists, or selective modulators, contingent upon their levels, offers promising clinical implications in HM management. Moreover, several anticancer agents targeting NRs have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This review highlights the integral function of NRs in HM's pathophysiology and the potential benefits of therapeutically targeting these receptors, suggesting a prospective avenue for more efficient therapeutic interventions against HM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mukesh Kumar Manickasamy
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati (IITG), Guwahati, Assam, 781039, India
| | - Anjana Sajeev
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati (IITG), Guwahati, Assam, 781039, India
| | - Bandari BharathwajChetty
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati (IITG), Guwahati, Assam, 781039, India
| | - Mohammed S Alqahtani
- Radiological Sciences Department, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Khalid University, 61421, Abha, Saudi Arabia
- BioImaging Unit, Space Research Centre, University of Leicester, Michael Atiyah Building, Leicester, LE1 7RH, UK
| | - Mohamed Abbas
- Electrical Engineering Department, College of Engineering, King Khalid University, 61421, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mangala Hegde
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati (IITG), Guwahati, Assam, 781039, India
| | - Babu Santha Aswani
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati (IITG), Guwahati, Assam, 781039, India
| | - Mehdi Shakibaei
- Chair of Vegetative Anatomy, Department of Human-Anatomy, Musculoskeletal Research Group and Tumor Biology, Institute of Anatomy, Ludwig-Maximilian-University, 80336, Munich, Germany
| | - Gautam Sethi
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117600, Singapore.
- NUS Centre for Cancer Research (N2CR), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117599, Singapore.
| | - Ajaikumar B Kunnumakkara
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati (IITG), Guwahati, Assam, 781039, India.
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6
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Huang L, Zuo Y, Yang H, He X, Zhang L. Identification of key genes as potential diagnostic and therapeutic targets for comorbidity of myasthenia gravis and COVID-19. Front Neurol 2024; 14:1334131. [PMID: 38384322 PMCID: PMC10879883 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1334131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a chronic autoimmune neuromuscular disorder. Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has a significant impact on the health and quality of life of MG patients and may even trigger the onset of MG in some cases. With the worldwide development of the COVID-19 vaccination, several new-onset MG cases and exacerbations following the COVID-19 vaccines have been acknowledged. The potential link between myasthenia gravis (MG) and COVID-19 has prompted the need for further investigation into the underlying molecular mechanism. Methods and results The differential expression analysis identified six differentially expressed genes (DEGs) shared by myasthenia gravis (MG) and COVID-19, namely SAMD9, PLEK, GZMB, JUNB, NR4A1, and NR1D1. The relationship between the six common genes and immune cells was investigated in the COVID-19 dataset. The predictive value of the shared genes was assessed and a nomogram was constructed using machine learning algorithms. The regulatory miRNAs, transcription factors and small molecular drugs were predicted, and the molecular docking was carried out by AutoDock. Discussion We have identified six common DEGs of MG and COVID-19 and explored their immunological effects and regulatory mechanisms. The result may provide new insights for further mechanism research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liyan Huang
- Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yao Zuo
- Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- China Rehabilitation Research Center, Beijing Bo’ai Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Hui Yang
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, China
| | - Xiaofang He
- Department of Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, Guizhou Provincial People's Hospital, Guiyang, China
| | - Lin Zhang
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, China
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7
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Wu M, Sun L, Song T. OTUB1-mediated inhibition of ubiquitination: a growing list of effectors, multiplex mechanisms, and versatile functions. Front Mol Biosci 2024; 10:1261273. [PMID: 38264570 PMCID: PMC10803509 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2023.1261273] [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: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Protein ubiquitination plays a pivotal role in protein homeostasis. Ubiquitination may regulate the stability, activity, protein-protein interaction, and localization of a protein. Ubiquitination is subject to regulation by two groups of counteracting enzymes, the E3 ubiquitin ligases and deubiquitinases. Consistently, deubiquitinases are involved in essentially all biological processes. OTUB1, an OTU-family deubiquitinase, is a critical regulator of development, cancer, DNA damage response, and immune response. OTUB1 antagonizes the ubiquitination of a wide-spectrum of proteins through at least two different mechanisms. Besides direct deubiquitination, OTUB1 can also inhibit ubiquitination by non-canonically blocking ubiquitin transfer from certain ubiquitin-conjugases (E2). In this review, we start with a general background of protein ubiquitination and deubiquitination. Next, we introduce the basic characteristics of OTUB1 and then elaborate on the updated biological functions of OTUB1. Afterwards, we discuss potential mechanisms underlying the versatility and specificity of OTUB1 functions. In the end, we discuss the perspective that OTUB1 can be a potential therapeutic target for cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miaomiao Wu
- Deparment of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shuyang Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Suqian, China
| | - Lidong Sun
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Cell Architecture Research Institute, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Tanjing Song
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Cell Architecture Research Institute, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
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Shan Y, Zhao J, Wei K, Jiang P, Xu L, Chang C, Xu L, Shi Y, Zheng Y, Bian Y, Zhou M, Schrodi SJ, Guo S, He D. A comprehensive review of Tripterygium wilfordii hook. f. in the treatment of rheumatic and autoimmune diseases: Bioactive compounds, mechanisms of action, and future directions. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1282610. [PMID: 38027004 PMCID: PMC10646552 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1282610] [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: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Rheumatic and autoimmune diseases are a group of immune system-related disorders wherein the immune system mistakenly attacks and damages the body's tissues and organs. This excessive immune response leads to inflammation, tissue damage, and functional impairment. Therapeutic approaches typically involve medications that regulate immune responses, reduce inflammation, alleviate symptoms, and target specific damaged organs. Tripterygium wilfordii Hook. f., a traditional Chinese medicinal plant, has been widely studied in recent years for its application in the treatment of autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and multiple sclerosis. Numerous studies have shown that preparations of Tripterygium wilfordii have anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and immunosuppressive effects, which effectively improve the symptoms and quality of life of patients with autoimmune diseases, whereas the active metabolites of T. wilfordii have been demonstrated to inhibit immune cell activation, regulate the production of inflammatory factors, and modulate the immune system. However, although these effects contribute to reductions in inflammatory responses and the suppression of autoimmune reactions, as well as minimize tissue and organ damage, the underlying mechanisms of action require further investigation. Moreover, despite the efficacy of T. wilfordii in the treatment of autoimmune diseases, its toxicity and side effects, including its potential hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity, warrant a thorough assessment. Furthermore, to maximize the therapeutic benefits of this plant in the treatment of autoimmune diseases and enable more patients to utilize these benefits, efforts should be made to strengthen the regulation and standardized use of T. wilfordii.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Shan
- Department of Rheumatology, Shanghai Guanghua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Guanghua Clinical Medical College, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Arthritis Research in Integrative Medicine, Shanghai Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jianan Zhao
- Department of Rheumatology, Shanghai Guanghua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Guanghua Clinical Medical College, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Arthritis Research in Integrative Medicine, Shanghai Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Kai Wei
- Department of Rheumatology, Shanghai Guanghua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Guanghua Clinical Medical College, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ping Jiang
- Department of Rheumatology, Shanghai Guanghua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Guanghua Clinical Medical College, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Lingxia Xu
- Department of Rheumatology, Shanghai Guanghua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Guanghua Clinical Medical College, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Cen Chang
- Department of Rheumatology, Shanghai Guanghua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Guanghua Clinical Medical College, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Linshuai Xu
- Department of Rheumatology, Shanghai Guanghua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Guanghua Clinical Medical College, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yiming Shi
- Department of Rheumatology, Shanghai Guanghua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Guanghua Clinical Medical College, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yixin Zheng
- Department of Rheumatology, Shanghai Guanghua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Guanghua Clinical Medical College, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanqin Bian
- Department of Rheumatology, Shanghai Guanghua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Arthritis Institute of Integrated Traditional and Western Medicine, Shanghai Chinese Medicine Research Institute, Shanghai, China
| | - Mi Zhou
- Department of Rheumatology, Shanghai Guanghua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Arthritis Institute of Integrated Traditional and Western Medicine, Shanghai Chinese Medicine Research Institute, Shanghai, China
| | - Steven J. Schrodi
- Computation and Informatics in Biology and Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI. United States
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Shicheng Guo
- Computation and Informatics in Biology and Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI. United States
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Dongyi He
- Department of Rheumatology, Shanghai Guanghua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Guanghua Clinical Medical College, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Arthritis Research in Integrative Medicine, Shanghai Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
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9
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Kadasah SF, Radwan MO. Overview of Ursolic Acid Potential for the Treatment of Metabolic Disorders, Autoimmune Diseases, and Cancers via Nuclear Receptor Pathways. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2845. [PMID: 37893218 PMCID: PMC10604592 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11102845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Nuclear receptors (NRs) form a family of druggable transcription factors that are regulated by ligand binding to orchestrate multifaceted physiological functions, including reproduction, immunity, metabolism, and growth. NRs represent attractive and valid targets for the management and treatment of a vast array of ailments. Pentacyclic triterpenes (PTs) are ubiquitously distributed natural products in medicinal and aromatic plants, of which ursolic acid (UA) is an extensively studied member, due to its diverse bio-pertinent activities against different cancers, inflammation, aging, obesity, diabetes, dyslipidemia, and liver injury. In fact, PTs share a common lipophilic structure that resembles NRs' endogenous ligands. Herein, we present a review of the literature on UA's effect on NRs, showcasing the resulting health benefits and potential therapeutic outcomes. De facto, UA exhibited numerous pharmacodynamic effects on PPAR, LXR, FXR, and PXR, resulting in remarkable anti-inflammatory, anti-hyperlipidemic, and hepatoprotective properties, by lowering lipid accumulation in hepatocytes and mitigating non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and its subsequent liver fibrosis. Furthermore, UA reversed valproate and rifampicin-induced hepatic lipid accumulation. Additionally, UA showed great promise for the treatment of autoimmune inflammatory diseases such as multiple sclerosis and autoimmune arthritis by antagonizing RORγ. UA exhibited antiproliferative effects against skin, prostate, and breast cancers, partially via PPARα and RORγ pathways. Herein, for the first time, we explore and provide insights into UA bioactivity with respect to NR modulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sultan F. Kadasah
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Bisha, P.O. Box 551, Bisha 61922, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohamed O. Radwan
- Medicinal and Biological Chemistry Science Farm Joint Research Laboratory, Faculty of Life Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto 862-0973, Japan
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Radwan MO, Kadasah SF, Aljubiri SM, Alrefaei AF, El-Maghrabey MH, El Hamd MA, Tateishi H, Otsuka M, Fujita M. Harnessing Oleanolic Acid and Its Derivatives as Modulators of Metabolic Nuclear Receptors. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1465. [PMID: 37892147 PMCID: PMC10604226 DOI: 10.3390/biom13101465] [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: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Nuclear receptors (NRs) constitute a superfamily of ligand-activated transcription factors with a paramount role in ubiquitous physiological functions such as metabolism, growth, and reproduction. Owing to their physiological role and druggability, NRs are deemed attractive and valid targets for medicinal chemists. Pentacyclic triterpenes (PTs) represent one of the most important phytochemical classes present in higher plants, where oleanolic acid (OA) is the most studied PTs representative owing to its multitude of biological activities against cancer, inflammation, diabetes, and liver injury. PTs possess a lipophilic skeleton that imitates the NRs endogenous ligands. Herein, we report a literature overview on the modulation of metabolic NRs by OA and its semi-synthetic derivatives, highlighting their health benefits and potential therapeutic applications. Indeed, OA exhibited varying pharmacological effects on FXR, PPAR, LXR, RXR, PXR, and ROR in a tissue-specific manner. Owing to these NRs modulation, OA showed prominent hepatoprotective properties comparable to ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) in a bile duct ligation mice model and antiatherosclerosis effect as simvastatin in a model of New Zealand white (NZW) rabbits. It also demonstrated a great promise in alleviating non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and liver fibrosis, attenuated alpha-naphthol isothiocyanate (ANIT)-induced cholestatic liver injury, and controlled blood glucose levels, making it a key player in the therapy of metabolic diseases. We also compiled OA semi-synthetic derivatives and explored their synthetic pathways and pharmacological effects on NRs, showcasing their structure-activity relationship (SAR). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first review article to highlight OA activity in terms of NRs modulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed O. Radwan
- Medicinal and Biological Chemistry Science Farm Joint Research Laboratory, Faculty of Life Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto 862-0973, Japan; (H.T.); (M.O.); (M.F.)
| | - Sultan F. Kadasah
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Bisha, Bisha 61922, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Salha M. Aljubiri
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, University of Bisha, Bisha 61922, Saudi Arabia;
| | | | - Mahmoud H. El-Maghrabey
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt;
| | - Mohamed A. El Hamd
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Shaqra University, Shaqra 11961, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, South Valley University, Qena 83523, Egypt
| | - Hiroshi Tateishi
- Medicinal and Biological Chemistry Science Farm Joint Research Laboratory, Faculty of Life Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto 862-0973, Japan; (H.T.); (M.O.); (M.F.)
| | - Masami Otsuka
- Medicinal and Biological Chemistry Science Farm Joint Research Laboratory, Faculty of Life Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto 862-0973, Japan; (H.T.); (M.O.); (M.F.)
- Department of Drug Discovery, Science Farm Ltd., Kumamoto 862-0976, Japan
| | - Mikako Fujita
- Medicinal and Biological Chemistry Science Farm Joint Research Laboratory, Faculty of Life Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto 862-0973, Japan; (H.T.); (M.O.); (M.F.)
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11
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Chang C, He F, Ao M, Chen J, Yu T, Li W, Li B, Fang M, Yang T. Inhibition of Nur77 expression and translocation by compound B6 reduces ER stress and alleviates cigarette smoke-induced inflammation and injury in bronchial epithelial cells. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1200110. [PMID: 37405051 PMCID: PMC10315657 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1200110] [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: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a leading cause of death worldwide with inflammation and injury in airway epithelial cells. However, few treatment options effectively reduce severity. We previously found that Nur77 is involved in lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation and injury of lung tissue. Here, we established an in vitro model of COPD-related inflammation and injury in 16-HBE cells induced by cigarette smoke extract (CSE). In these cells, Nur77 expression and localization to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) increased following CSE treatment, as did ER stress marker (BIP, ATF4, CHOP) expression, inflammatory cytokine expression, and apoptosis. The flavonoid derivative, named B6, which was shown to be a modulator of Nur77 in previous screen, molecular dynamics simulation revealed that B6 binds strongly to Nur77 through hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interactions. Treating CSE-stimulated 16-HBE cells with B6 resulted in a reduction of both inflammatory cytokine expression and secretion, as well as attenuated apoptosis. Furthermore, B6 treatment resulted in a decrease in Nur77 expression and translocation to the ER, which was accompanied by a concentration-dependent reduction in the expression of ER stress markers. Meanwhile, B6 played a similar role in CSE-treated BEAS-2B cells. These combined effects suggest that B6 could inhibit inflammation and apoptosis in airway epithelial cells after cigarette smoke stimulation, and support its further development as a candidate intervention for treating COPD-related airway inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenli Chang
- China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Center of Respiratory Medicine, National Center for Respiratory Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Diseases, Institute of Respiratory Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Fengming He
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Mingtao Ao
- College of Pharmacy, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, China
| | - Jun Chen
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Tao Yu
- China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Center of Respiratory Medicine, National Center for Respiratory Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Diseases, Institute of Respiratory Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Weiyu Li
- China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Center of Respiratory Medicine, National Center for Respiratory Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Diseases, Institute of Respiratory Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Baicun Li
- China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Center of Respiratory Medicine, National Center for Respiratory Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Diseases, Institute of Respiratory Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Meijuan Fang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Ting Yang
- China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Center of Respiratory Medicine, National Center for Respiratory Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Diseases, Institute of Respiratory Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
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12
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Zhang Q, Huang Y, Gong C, Tang Y, Xiong J, Wang D, Liu X. Dexmedetomidine attenuates inflammation and organ injury partially by upregulating Nur77 in sepsis. Immun Inflamm Dis 2023; 11:e883. [PMID: 37382273 DOI: 10.1002/iid3.883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of dexmedetomidine (Dex) on inflammation and organ injury in sepsis, as well as the potential relationship between Dex and nuclear receptor 77 (Nur77). METHODS We investigated the effects of dexmedetomidine on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation in RAW264.7 cells and organ injury in the cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) mouse model. Additionally, we examined the relationship between dexmedetomidine and Nur77. The expression levels of Nur77 in RAW264.7 cells were analyzed under various types of stimulation using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and western blot analysis. Inflammatory cytokine levels in the cells were evaluated using enzyme-linked immunoassay. Organ injuries were assessed by examining tissue histology and pathology of the lung, liver, and kidney. RESULTS Dexmedetomidine increased the expression of Nur77 and IL-10, and downregulated inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β and TNF-α) in LPS-treated RAW264.7 cells. The effect of dexmedetomidine on inhibiting inflammation in LPS-treated RAW264.7 cells was promoted by overexpressing Nur77, while it was reversed by downregulating Nur77. Additionally, dexmedetomidine promoted the expression of Nur77 in the lung and CLP-induced pathological changes in the lung, liver, and kidney. Activation of Nur77 with the agonist Cytosporone B (CsnB) significantly suppressed the production of IL-1β and TNF-α in LPS-treated RAW264.7 cells. In contrast, knockdown of Nur77 augmented IL-1β and TNF-α production in LPS-treated RAW264.7 cells. CONCLUSION Dexmedetomidine can attenuate inflammation and organ injury, at least partially, via upregulating Nur77 in sepsis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Zhang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Yun Huang
- Department of Nephrology, First People's Hospital, Guiyang, Guizhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Chenchen Gong
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, The Children's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Yan Tang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Jie Xiong
- Department of Hematology, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Difen Wang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Xu Liu
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, People's Republic of China
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13
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Zhu F, Ma J, Li W, Liu Q, Qin X, Qian Y, Wang C, Zhang Y, Li Y, Jiang D, Wang S, Xia P. The orphan receptor Nur77 binds cytoplasmic LPS to activate the non-canonical NLRP3 inflammasome. Immunity 2023; 56:753-767.e8. [PMID: 37001519 DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2023.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023]
Abstract
Intracellular sensing of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) by murine caspase-11 or human caspase-4 initiates a protease cascade, termed the non-canonical inflammasome, that results in gasdermin D (GSDMD) processing and subsequent NLRP3 inflammasome activation. In an effort aimed at identifying additional sensors for intracellular LPS by biochemical screening, we identified the nuclear orphan receptor Nur77 as an LPS-binding protein in macrophage lysates. Nr4a1-/- macrophages exhibited impaired activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome, but not caspase-11, in response to LPS. Biochemical mapping revealed that Nur77 bound LPS directly through a domain in its C terminus. Yeast two-hybrid assays identified NLRP3 as a binding partner for Nur77. The association between Nur77 and NLRP3 required the presence of LPS and dsDNA. The source of dsDNA was the mitochondria, requiring the formation of gasdermin-D pores. In vivo, Nur77 deficiency ameliorated host response to endotoxins. Thus, Nur77 functions as an intracellular LPS sensor, binding mitochondrial DNA and LPS to activate the non-canonical NLRP3 inflammasome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangrui Zhu
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Medical Immunology, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China; Key Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Juan Ma
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Medical Immunology, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China; Key Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Weitao Li
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Medical Immunology, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China; Key Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Qiannv Liu
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Medical Immunology, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China; Key Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Xiwen Qin
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Medical Immunology, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China; Key Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Yan Qian
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Medical Immunology, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China; Key Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Chunlei Wang
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Medical Immunology, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China; Key Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Medical Immunology, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China; Key Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Yi Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Dong Jiang
- Department of Sports Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Sports Injuries, Institute of Sports Medicine of Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Shuo Wang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.
| | - Pengyan Xia
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Medical Immunology, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China; Key Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100191, China.
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14
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Bending D, Zikherman J. Nr4a nuclear receptors: markers and modulators of antigen receptor signaling. Curr Opin Immunol 2023; 81:102285. [PMID: 36764055 DOI: 10.1016/j.coi.2023.102285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2022] [Revised: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
Nr4a1-3 encode a small family of orphan nuclear hormone receptors with transcriptional activity. Their expression reflects both acute and chronic antigen-receptor signaling in T and B-cells, and they have been implicated in critical aspects of lymphocyte development, tolerance, and function. These include roles in regulatory T-cell (Treg), thymic-negative selection, humoral responses, anergy, and exhaustion. Here, we review recent advances in this field such as functional roles in B-cells, transcriptional targets, and mechanism of action. We highlight recurrent themes, including integration of antigen-receptor signaling with costimulatory input, as well as unanswered questions and translational applications of this work.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Bending
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK.
| | - Julie Zikherman
- Division of Rheumatology, Rosalind Russell and Ephraim P. Engleman Arthritis Research Center, Department of Medicine, UCSF, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA.
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15
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Murphy EP, Crean D. NR4A1-3 nuclear receptor activity and immune cell dysregulation in rheumatic diseases. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:874182. [PMID: 35935773 PMCID: PMC9354819 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.874182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The development and progression of immune-mediated rheumatic disease (IMRD) involves dysfunction of innate and adaptive immune cell populations leading to altered responses including inflammasome activation, dysregulated cytokine networks, increased immune cell numbers and multifaceted cell-cell communication. Several rheumatic diseases are further characterized by the presence of autoantibodies, immune complex mediated complement activation and the deficit of peripheral immune tolerance due to reduced regulatory T-lymphocyte cell function. Ultimately, in rheumatic disease the loss in cellular and tissue homeostasis culminates in the advancement of chronic inflammation. The three members of the NR4A subfamily of nuclear receptors are immediate early genes, and act as potent transcriptional responders to changes in the cellular and tissue microenvironment. Subfamily members are rapidly expressed in diseases characterized by inflammation and function to control the differentiation and activity of innate and adaptive immune cells in a cell-type and cell-context specific manner. Rheumatic disease including rheumatoid-, psoriatic-, osteo-arthritis and systemic sclerosis display altered NR4A1-3 activity in controlling immune cell migration and function, production of paracrine signaling molecules, synovial tissue hyperplasia, and regulating cartilage turn-over in vivo. Additionally, NR4A1-3 activities mediate cytokine, prostanoid and growth factor signaling to control angiogenesis, modulate the regulatory functions of mesenchymal stromal cells, alter the activation status of dendritic cells, influence the generation of peripheral myeloid and T-lymphocyte lineages and promote the maintenance of functional regulatory T-cells. Further reports uncover the potential of moderating NR4A 1-3 receptors as therapeutic targets in altering immune tolerance, pathological angiogenesis and controlling inflammation in several models of disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evelyn P. Murphy
- School of Medicine, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
- *Correspondence: Evelyn P. Murphy
| | - Daniel Crean
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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16
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Hiwa R, Brooks JF, Mueller JL, Nielsen HV, Zikherman J. NR4A nuclear receptors in T and B lymphocytes: Gatekeepers of immune tolerance . Immunol Rev 2022; 307:116-133. [PMID: 35174510 DOI: 10.1111/imr.13072] [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: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Random VDJ recombination early in T and B cell development enables the adaptive immune system to recognize a vast array of evolving pathogens via antigen receptors. However, the potential of such randomly generated TCRs and BCRs to recognize and respond to self-antigens requires layers of tolerance mechanisms to mitigate the risk of life-threatening autoimmunity. Since they were originally cloned more than three decades ago, the NR4A family of nuclear hormone receptors have been implicated in many critical aspects of immune tolerance, including negative selection of thymocytes, peripheral T cell tolerance, regulatory T cells (Treg), and most recently in peripheral B cell tolerance. In this review, we discuss important insights from many laboratories as well as our own group into the function and mechanisms by which this small class of primary response genes promotes self-tolerance and immune homeostasis to balance the need for host defense against the inherent risks posed by the adaptive immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryosuke Hiwa
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Rosalind Russell and Ephraim P. Engelman Arthritis Research Center, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Kyoto University Hospital, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Jeremy F Brooks
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Rosalind Russell and Ephraim P. Engelman Arthritis Research Center, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - James L Mueller
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Rosalind Russell and Ephraim P. Engelman Arthritis Research Center, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Hailyn V Nielsen
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Rosalind Russell and Ephraim P. Engelman Arthritis Research Center, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Julie Zikherman
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Rosalind Russell and Ephraim P. Engelman Arthritis Research Center, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
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17
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Ao M, Zhang J, Qian Y, Li B, Wang X, Chen J, Zhang Y, Cao Y, Qiu Y, Xu Y, Wu Z, Fang M. Design and synthesis of adamantyl-substituted flavonoid derivatives as anti-inflammatory Nur77 modulators: Compound B7 targets Nur77 and improves LPS-induced inflammation in vitro and in vivo. Bioorg Chem 2022; 120:105645. [PMID: 35121551 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2022.105645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
In continuing our study on discovering new Nur77-targeting anti-inflammatory agents with natural skeletons, we combined adamantyl group and hydroxamic acid moiety with flavonoid nucleus, synthesized three series of flavonoid derivatives with a similar structure like CD437, and evaluated their activities against LPS-induced inflammation. Compound B7 was found to be an excellent Nur77 binder (Kd = 3.55 × 10-7 M) and a potent inhibitor of inflammation, which significantly decreased the production of cytokines in vitro, such as NO, IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α, at concentrations of 1.25, 2.5, and 5 μM. Mechanistically, B7 modulated the colocalization of Nur77 at mitochondria and inhibited the lipopolysaccharides (LPS)-induced inflammation via the blockade of NF-κB activation in a Nur77-dependent manner. Additionally, B7 showed in vivo anti-inflammatory activity in the LPS-induced mice model of acute lung injury (ALI). These data suggest that the Nur77-targeting flavonoid derivatives can be particularly useful for further pharmaceutical development for the treatment of inflammatory diseases such as ALI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingtao Ao
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research and State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, South Xiang-An Road, Xiamen 361102, China; School of Pharmacy, Hubei Engineering Research Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine of South Hubei Province, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, Hubei 437100 China
| | - Jianyu Zhang
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research and State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, South Xiang-An Road, Xiamen 361102, China; National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital & Shenzhen Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yuqing Qian
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research and State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, South Xiang-An Road, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Boqun Li
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research and State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, South Xiang-An Road, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Xiumei Wang
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research and State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, South Xiang-An Road, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Jun Chen
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research and State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, South Xiang-An Road, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Yuxiang Zhang
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research and State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, South Xiang-An Road, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Yin Cao
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research and State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, South Xiang-An Road, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Yingkun Qiu
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research and State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, South Xiang-An Road, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Yang Xu
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research and State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, South Xiang-An Road, Xiamen 361102, China.
| | - Zhen Wu
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research and State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, South Xiang-An Road, Xiamen 361102, China.
| | - Meijuan Fang
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research and State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, South Xiang-An Road, Xiamen 361102, China.
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18
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Yang M, He Y, Deng S, Xiao L, Tian M, Xin Y, Lu C, Zhao F, Gong Y. Mitochondrial Quality Control: A Pathophysiological Mechanism and Therapeutic Target for Stroke. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 14:786099. [PMID: 35153669 PMCID: PMC8832032 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2021.786099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Stroke is a devastating disease with high mortality and disability rates. Previous research has established that mitochondria, as major regulators, are both influenced by stroke, and further regulated the development of poststroke injury. Mitochondria are involved in several biological processes such as energy generation, calcium homeostasis, immune response, apoptosis regulation, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. Meanwhile, mitochondria can evolve into various quality control systems, including mitochondrial dynamics (fission and fusion) and mitophagy, to maintain the homeostasis of the mitochondrial network. Various activities of mitochondrial fission and fusion are associated with mitochondrial integrity and neurological injury after stroke. Additionally, proper mitophagy seems to be neuroprotective for its effect on eliminating the damaged mitochondria, while excessive mitophagy disturbs energy generation and mitochondria-associated signal pathways. The balance between mitochondrial dynamics and mitophagy is more crucial than the absolute level of each process. A neurovascular unit (NVU) is a multidimensional system by which cells release multiple mediators and regulate diverse signaling pathways across the whole neurovascular network in a way with a high dynamic interaction. The turbulence of mitochondrial quality control (MQC) could lead to NVU dysfunctions, including neuron death, neuroglial activation, blood–brain barrier (BBB) disruption, and neuroinflammation. However, the exact changes and effects of MQC on the NVU after stroke have yet to be fully illustrated. In this review, we will discuss the updated mechanisms of MQC and the pathophysiology of mitochondrial dynamics and mitophagy after stroke. We highlight the regulation of MQC as a potential therapeutic target for both ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miaoxian Yang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu He
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shuixiang Deng
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lei Xiao
- The State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, The Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Mi Tian
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuewen Xin
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chaocheng Lu
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Feng Zhao
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Feng Zhao,
| | - Ye Gong
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Ye Gong,
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19
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Verma S, Chakraborti S, Singh OP, Pande V, Dixit R, Pandey AV, Pandey KC. Recognition of fold- and function-specific sites in the ligand-binding domain of the thyroid hormone receptor-like family. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:981090. [PMID: 36246927 PMCID: PMC9559826 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.981090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The thyroid hormone receptor-like (THR-like) family is the largest transcription factors family belonging to the nuclear receptor superfamily, which directly binds to DNA and regulates the gene expression and thereby controls various metabolic processes in a ligand-dependent manner. The THR-like family contains receptors THRs, RARs, VDR, PPARs, RORs, Rev-erbs, CAR, PXR, LXRs, and others. THR-like receptors are involved in many aspects of human health, including development, metabolism and homeostasis. Therefore, it is considered an important therapeutic target for various diseases such as osteoporosis, rickets, diabetes, etc. METHODS In this study, we have performed an extensive sequence and structure analysis of the ligand-binding domain (LBD) of the THR-like family spanning multiple taxa. We have use different computational tools (information-theoretic measures; relative entropy) to predict the key residues responsible for fold and functional specificity in the LBD of the THR-like family. The MSA of THR-like LBDs was further used as input in conservation studies and phylogenetic clustering studies. RESULTS Phylogenetic analysis of the LBD domain of THR-like proteins resulted in the clustering of eight subfamilies based on their sequence homology. The conservation analysis by relative entropy (RE) revealed that structurally important residues are conserved throughout the LBDs in the THR-like family. The multi-harmony conservation analysis further predicted specificity in determining residues in LBDs of THR-like subfamilies. Finally, fold and functional specificity determining residues (residues critical for ligand, DBD and coregulators binding) were mapped on the three-dimensional structure of thyroid hormone receptor protein. We then compiled a list of natural mutations in THR-like LBDs and mapped them along with fold and function-specific mutations. Some of the mutations were found to have a link with severe diseases like hypothyroidism, rickets, obesity, lipodystrophy, epilepsy, etc. CONCLUSION Our study identifies fold and function-specific residues in THR-like LBDs. We believe that this study will be useful in exploring the role of these residues in the binding of different drugs, ligands, and protein-protein interaction among partner proteins. So this study might be helpful in the rational design of either ligands or receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Verma
- Parasite-Host Biology Group, ICMR-National Institute of Malaria Research, New Delhi, India
- Pediatric Endocrinology, Diabetology, and Metabolism, University Children’s Hospital, Bern, Switzerland
- Translational Hormone Research Cluster, Department of Biomedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | | | - Om P. Singh
- Parasite-Host Biology Group, ICMR-National Institute of Malaria Research, New Delhi, India
| | - Veena Pande
- Kumaun University, Nainital, Uttrakhand, India
| | - Rajnikant Dixit
- Parasite-Host Biology Group, ICMR-National Institute of Malaria Research, New Delhi, India
| | - Amit V. Pandey
- Pediatric Endocrinology, Diabetology, and Metabolism, University Children’s Hospital, Bern, Switzerland
- Translational Hormone Research Cluster, Department of Biomedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- *Correspondence: Kailash C. Pandey, ; Amit V. Pandey,
| | - Kailash C. Pandey
- Parasite-Host Biology Group, ICMR-National Institute of Malaria Research, New Delhi, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India
- *Correspondence: Kailash C. Pandey, ; Amit V. Pandey,
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Nuclear receptors: from molecular mechanisms to therapeutics. Essays Biochem 2021; 65:847-856. [PMID: 34825698 PMCID: PMC8628184 DOI: 10.1042/ebc20210020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Revised: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Nuclear receptors are classically defined as ligand-activated transcription factors that regulate key functions in reproduction, development, and physiology. Humans have 48 nuclear receptors, which when dysregulated are often linked to diseases. Because most nuclear receptors can be selectively activated or inactivated by small molecules, they are prominent therapeutic targets. The basic understanding of this family of transcription factors was accelerated in the 1980s upon the cloning of the first hormone receptors. During the next 20 years, a deep understanding of hormone signaling was achieved that has translated to numerous clinical applications, such as the development of standard-of-care endocrine therapies for hormonally driven breast and prostate cancers. A 2004 issue of this journal reviewed progress on elucidating the structures of nuclear receptors and their mechanisms of action. In the current issue, we focus on the broad application of new knowledge in this field for therapy across diverse disease states including cancer, cardiovascular disease, various inflammatory diseases, the aging brain, and COVID-19.
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