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Shen H, Gao Y, Ge D, Tan M, Yin Q, Wei TYW, He F, Lee TY, Li Z, Chen Y, Yang Q, Liu Z, Li X, Chen Z, Yang Y, Zhang Z, Thistlethwaite PA, Wang J, Malhotra A, Yuan JXJ, Shyy JYJ, Gong K. BRCC3 Regulation of ALK2 in Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells: Implication in Pulmonary Hypertension. Circulation 2024; 150:132-150. [PMID: 38557054 PMCID: PMC11230848 DOI: 10.1161/circulationaha.123.066430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND An imbalance of antiproliferative BMP (bone morphogenetic protein) signaling and proliferative TGF-β (transforming growth factor-β) signaling is implicated in the development of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). The posttranslational modification (eg, phosphorylation and ubiquitination) of TGF-β family receptors, including BMPR2 (bone morphogenetic protein type 2 receptor)/ALK2 (activin receptor-like kinase-2) and TGF-βR2/R1, and receptor-regulated Smads significantly affects their activity and thus regulates the target cell fate. BRCC3 modifies the activity and stability of its substrate proteins through K63-dependent deubiquitination. By modulating the posttranslational modifications of the BMP/TGF-β-PPARγ pathway, BRCC3 may play a role in pulmonary vascular remodeling, hence the pathogenesis of PAH. METHODS Bioinformatic analyses were used to explore the mechanism by which BRCC3 deubiquitinates ALK2. Cultured pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (PASMCs), mouse models, and specimens from patients with idiopathic PAH were used to investigate the rebalance between BMP and TGF-β signaling in regulating ALK2 phosphorylation and ubiquitination in the context of pulmonary hypertension. RESULTS BRCC3 was significantly downregulated in PASMCs from patients with PAH and animals with experimental pulmonary hypertension. BRCC3, by de-ubiquitinating ALK2 at Lys-472 and Lys-475, activated receptor-regulated Smad1/5/9, which resulted in transcriptional activation of BMP-regulated PPARγ, p53, and Id1. Overexpression of BRCC3 also attenuated TGF-β signaling by downregulating TGF-β expression and inhibiting phosphorylation of Smad3. Experiments in vitro indicated that overexpression of BRCC3 or the de-ubiquitin-mimetic ALK2-K472/475R attenuated PASMC proliferation and migration and enhanced PASMC apoptosis. In SM22α-BRCC3-Tg mice, pulmonary hypertension was ameliorated because of activation of the ALK2-Smad1/5-PPARγ axis in PASMCs. In contrast, Brcc3-/- mice showed increased susceptibility of experimental pulmonary hypertension because of inhibition of the ALK2-Smad1/5 signaling. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest a pivotal role of BRCC3 in sustaining pulmonary vascular homeostasis by maintaining the integrity of the BMP signaling (ie, the ALK2-Smad1/5-PPARγ axis) while suppressing TGF-β signaling in PASMCs. Such rebalance of BMP/TGF-β pathways is translationally important for PAH alleviation.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Humans
- Male
- Mice
- Activin Receptors, Type II/metabolism
- Activin Receptors, Type II/genetics
- Bone Morphogenetic Protein Receptors, Type II/metabolism
- Bone Morphogenetic Protein Receptors, Type II/genetics
- Cell Proliferation
- Cells, Cultured
- Disease Models, Animal
- Hypertension, Pulmonary/metabolism
- Hypertension, Pulmonary/genetics
- Hypertension, Pulmonary/pathology
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Mice, Knockout
- Muscle, Smooth, Vascular/metabolism
- Muscle, Smooth, Vascular/pathology
- Myocytes, Smooth Muscle/metabolism
- Myocytes, Smooth Muscle/pathology
- PPAR gamma/metabolism
- PPAR gamma/genetics
- Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension/metabolism
- Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension/pathology
- Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension/genetics
- Pulmonary Artery/metabolism
- Pulmonary Artery/pathology
- Signal Transduction
- Ubiquitination
- Vascular Remodeling
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Shen
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou University, Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Yangzhou Key Lab of Innovation Frontiers in Cardiovascular Disease, China (H.S., Y.G., D.G., M.T., Q. Yin, Z.L., X.L., Z.C., Y.Y., Z.Z., K.G.)
| | - Ya Gao
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou University, Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Yangzhou Key Lab of Innovation Frontiers in Cardiovascular Disease, China (H.S., Y.G., D.G., M.T., Q. Yin, Z.L., X.L., Z.C., Y.Y., Z.Z., K.G.)
| | - Dedong Ge
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou University, Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Yangzhou Key Lab of Innovation Frontiers in Cardiovascular Disease, China (H.S., Y.G., D.G., M.T., Q. Yin, Z.L., X.L., Z.C., Y.Y., Z.Z., K.G.)
| | - Meng Tan
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou University, Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Yangzhou Key Lab of Innovation Frontiers in Cardiovascular Disease, China (H.S., Y.G., D.G., M.T., Q. Yin, Z.L., X.L., Z.C., Y.Y., Z.Z., K.G.)
| | - Qing Yin
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou University, Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Yangzhou Key Lab of Innovation Frontiers in Cardiovascular Disease, China (H.S., Y.G., D.G., M.T., Q. Yin, Z.L., X.L., Z.C., Y.Y., Z.Z., K.G.)
| | - Tong-You Wade Wei
- Division of Cardiology (T.-Y.W.W., J.Y.-J.S.), University of California, San Diego, La Jolla
| | - Fangzhou He
- Institute of Cardiovascular Science, Translational Medicine Institute, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, China (F.H.)
| | - Tzong-Yi Lee
- Warshel Institute for Computational Biology, School of Medicine, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China (T.-Y.L., Z.L.)
| | - Zhongyan Li
- Warshel Institute for Computational Biology, School of Medicine, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China (T.-Y.L., Z.L.)
| | - Yuqin Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, National Center for Respiratory Medicine, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Vascular Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Diseases, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, China (Y.C., Q. Yang, J.W.)
| | - Qifeng Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, National Center for Respiratory Medicine, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Vascular Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Diseases, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, China (Y.C., Q. Yang, J.W.)
| | - Zhangyu Liu
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou University, Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Yangzhou Key Lab of Innovation Frontiers in Cardiovascular Disease, China (H.S., Y.G., D.G., M.T., Q. Yin, Z.L., X.L., Z.C., Y.Y., Z.Z., K.G.)
| | - Xinxin Li
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou University, Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Yangzhou Key Lab of Innovation Frontiers in Cardiovascular Disease, China (H.S., Y.G., D.G., M.T., Q. Yin, Z.L., X.L., Z.C., Y.Y., Z.Z., K.G.)
| | - Zixuan Chen
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou University, Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Yangzhou Key Lab of Innovation Frontiers in Cardiovascular Disease, China (H.S., Y.G., D.G., M.T., Q. Yin, Z.L., X.L., Z.C., Y.Y., Z.Z., K.G.)
| | - Yi Yang
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou University, Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Yangzhou Key Lab of Innovation Frontiers in Cardiovascular Disease, China (H.S., Y.G., D.G., M.T., Q. Yin, Z.L., X.L., Z.C., Y.Y., Z.Z., K.G.)
| | - Zhengang Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou University, Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Yangzhou Key Lab of Innovation Frontiers in Cardiovascular Disease, China (H.S., Y.G., D.G., M.T., Q. Yin, Z.L., X.L., Z.C., Y.Y., Z.Z., K.G.)
| | - Patricia A Thistlethwaite
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery (P.A.T.), University of California, San Diego, La Jolla
| | - Jian Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, National Center for Respiratory Medicine, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Vascular Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Diseases, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, China (Y.C., Q. Yang, J.W.)
- Guangzhou National Laboratory, Guangzhou International Bio Island, China (J.W.)
| | - Atul Malhotra
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine (A.M.), University of California, San Diego, La Jolla
| | - Jason X-J Yuan
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine (J.X.-J.Y.), University of California, San Diego, La Jolla
| | - John Y-J Shyy
- Division of Cardiology (T.-Y.W.W., J.Y.-J.S.), University of California, San Diego, La Jolla
| | - Kaizheng Gong
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou University, Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Yangzhou Key Lab of Innovation Frontiers in Cardiovascular Disease, China (H.S., Y.G., D.G., M.T., Q. Yin, Z.L., X.L., Z.C., Y.Y., Z.Z., K.G.)
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Bozzini C, Busti F, Marchi G, Vianello A, Cerchione C, Martinelli G, Girelli D. Anemia in patients receiving anticancer treatments: focus on novel therapeutic approaches. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1380358. [PMID: 38628673 PMCID: PMC11018927 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1380358] [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: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Anemia is common in cancer patients and impacts on quality of life and prognosis. It is typically multifactorial, often involving different pathophysiological mechanisms, making treatment a difficult task. In patients undergoing active anticancer treatments like chemotherapy, decreased red blood cell (RBC) production due to myelosuppression generally predominates, but absolute or functional iron deficiency frequently coexists. Current treatments for chemotherapy-related anemia include blood transfusions, erythropoiesis-stimulating agents, and iron supplementation. Each option has limitations, and there is an urgent need for novel approaches. After decades of relative immobilism, several promising anti-anemic drugs are now entering the clinical scenario. Emerging novel classes of anti-anemic drugs recently introduced or in development for other types of anemia include activin receptor ligand traps, hypoxia-inducible factor-prolyl hydroxylase inhibitors, and hepcidin antagonists. Here, we discuss their possible role in the treatment of anemia observed in patients receiving anticancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Bozzini
- Department of Medicine, Section of Internal Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
- EuroBloodNet Referral Center, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Fabiana Busti
- Department of Medicine, Section of Internal Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
- EuroBloodNet Referral Center, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Giacomo Marchi
- Department of Medicine, Section of Internal Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
- EuroBloodNet Referral Center, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Alice Vianello
- Department of Medicine, Section of Internal Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
- EuroBloodNet Referral Center, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Claudio Cerchione
- Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) “Dino Amadori”, Meldola, Italy
| | - Giovanni Martinelli
- Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) “Dino Amadori”, Meldola, Italy
| | - Domenico Girelli
- Department of Medicine, Section of Internal Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
- EuroBloodNet Referral Center, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata Verona, Verona, Italy
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3
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Yao L, Lu J, Zhong L, Wei Y, Gui T, Wang L, Ahn J, Boerckel JD, Rux D, Mundy C, Qin L, Pacifici M. Activin A marks a novel progenitor cell population during fracture healing and reveals a therapeutic strategy. eLife 2023; 12:e89822. [PMID: 38079220 PMCID: PMC10783872 DOI: 10.7554/elife.89822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Insufficient bone fracture repair represents a major clinical and societal burden and novel strategies are needed to address it. Our data reveal that the transforming growth factor-β superfamily member Activin A became very abundant during mouse and human bone fracture healing but was minimally detectable in intact bones. Single-cell RNA-sequencing revealed that the Activin A-encoding gene Inhba was highly expressed in a unique, highly proliferative progenitor cell (PPC) population with a myofibroblast character that quickly emerged after fracture and represented the center of a developmental trajectory bifurcation producing cartilage and bone cells within callus. Systemic administration of neutralizing Activin A antibody inhibited bone healing. In contrast, a single recombinant Activin A implantation at fracture site in young and aged mice boosted: PPC numbers; phosphorylated SMAD2 signaling levels; and bone repair and mechanical properties in endochondral and intramembranous healing models. Activin A directly stimulated myofibroblastic differentiation, chondrogenesis and osteogenesis in periosteal mesenchymal progenitor culture. Our data identify a distinct population of Activin A-expressing PPCs central to fracture healing and establish Activin A as a potential new therapeutic tool.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lutian Yao
- Translational Research Program in Pediatric Orthopaedics, Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, Children’s Hospital of PhiladelphiaPhiladelphiaUnited States
- Department of Orthopaedics, The First Hospital of China Medical UniversityShenyangChina
| | - Jiawei Lu
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaUnited States
| | - Leilei Zhong
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaUnited States
| | - Yulong Wei
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaUnited States
| | - Tao Gui
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaUnited States
| | - Luqiang Wang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaUnited States
| | - Jaimo Ahn
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Michigan Medicine, University of MichiganAnn ArborUnited States
| | - Joel D Boerckel
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaUnited States
| | - Danielle Rux
- Translational Research Program in Pediatric Orthopaedics, Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, Children’s Hospital of PhiladelphiaPhiladelphiaUnited States
| | - Christina Mundy
- Translational Research Program in Pediatric Orthopaedics, Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, Children’s Hospital of PhiladelphiaPhiladelphiaUnited States
| | - Ling Qin
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaUnited States
| | - Maurizio Pacifici
- Translational Research Program in Pediatric Orthopaedics, Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, Children’s Hospital of PhiladelphiaPhiladelphiaUnited States
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4
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Nasir NJN, Arifin N, Noordin KBA, Yusop N. Bone repair and key signalling pathways for cell-based bone regenerative therapy: A review. J Taibah Univ Med Sci 2023; 18:1350-1363. [PMID: 37305024 PMCID: PMC10248876 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtumed.2023.05.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Advances in cell-based regenerative therapy create new opportunities for the treatment of bone-related disorders and injuries, by improving the reparative phase of bone healing. Apart from the classical approach of bone grafting, the application of cell-based therapies, particularly stem cells (SCs), has gained a lot of attention in recent years. SCs play an important role in regenerative therapy due to their excellent ability to differentiate into bone-forming cells. Regeneration of new bone is regulated by a wide variety of signalling molecules and intracellular networks, which are responsible for coordinating cellular processes. The activated signalling cascade is significantly involved in cell survival, proliferation, apoptosis, and interaction with the microenvironment and other types of cells within the healing site. Despite the increasing evidence from studies conducted on signalling pathways associated with bone formation, the exact mechanism involved in controlling the differentiation stage of transplanted cells is not well understood. Identifying the key activated pathways involved in bone regeneration may allow for precise manipulation of the relevant signalling molecules within the progenitor cell population to accelerate the healing process. The in-depth knowledge of molecular mechanisms would be advantageous in improving the efficiency of personalised medicine and targeted therapy in regenerative medicine. In this review, we briefly introduce the theory of bone repair mechanism and bone tissue engineering followed by an overview of relevant signalling pathways that have been identified to play an important role in cell-based bone regenerative therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nur Julia N. Nasir
- Basic and Medical Sciences Department, School of Dental Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, Malaysia
| | - Norsyahida Arifin
- Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Khairul Bariah A.A. Noordin
- Basic and Medical Sciences Department, School of Dental Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, Malaysia
| | - Norhayati Yusop
- Basic and Medical Sciences Department, School of Dental Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, Malaysia
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5
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Omosule CL, Joseph D, Weiler B, Gremminger VL, Silvey S, Lafaver BN, Jeong Y, Kleiner S, Phillips CL. Whole-Body Metabolism and the Musculoskeletal Impacts of Targeting Activin A and Myostatin in Severe Osteogenesis Imperfecta. JBMR Plus 2023; 7:e10753. [PMID: 37457877 PMCID: PMC10339096 DOI: 10.1002/jbm4.10753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Mutations in the COL1A1 and COL1A2 genes, which encode type I collagen, are present in around 85%-90% of osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) patients. Because type I collagen is the principal protein composition of bones, any changes in its gene sequences or synthesis can severely affect bone structure. As a result, skeletal deformity and bone frailty are defining characteristics of OI. Homozygous oim/oim mice are utilized as models of severe progressive type III OI. Bone adapts to external forces by altering its mass and architecture. Previous attempts to leverage the relationship between muscle and bone involved using a soluble activin receptor type IIB-mFc (sActRIIB-mFc) fusion protein to lower circulating concentrations of activin A and myostatin. These two proteins are part of the TGF-β superfamily that regulate muscle and bone function. While this approach resulted in increased muscle masses and enhanced bone properties, adverse effects emerged due to ligand promiscuity, limiting clinical efficacy and obscuring the precise contributions of myostatin and activin A. In this study, we investigated the musculoskeletal and whole-body metabolism effect of treating 5-week-old wildtype (Wt) and oim/oim mice for 11 weeks with either control antibody (Ctrl-Ab) or monoclonal anti-activin A antibody (ActA-Ab), anti-myostatin antibody (Mstn-Ab), or a combination of ActA-Ab and Mstn-Ab (Combo). We demonstrated that ActA-Ab treatment minimally impacts muscle mass in oim/oim mice, whereas Mstn-Ab and Combo treatments substantially increased muscle mass and overall lean mass regardless of genotype and sex. Further, while no improvements in cortical bone microarchitecture were observed with all treatments, minimal improvements in trabecular bone microarchitecture were observed with the Combo treatment in oim/oim mice. Our findings suggest that individual or combinatorial inhibition of myostatin and activin A alone is insufficient to robustly improve femoral biomechanical and microarchitectural properties in severely affected OI mice. © 2023 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Dominique Joseph
- Department of BiochemistryUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
| | - Brooke Weiler
- Department of BiochemistryUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
| | | | - Spencer Silvey
- Department of BiochemistryUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
| | | | - Youngjae Jeong
- Department of BiochemistryUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
| | | | - Charlotte L. Phillips
- Department of BiochemistryUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
- Department of Child HealthUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
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6
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Hatamzade Esfahani N, Day AS. The Role of TGF-β, Activin and Follistatin in Inflammatory Bowel Disease. GASTROINTESTINAL DISORDERS 2023; 5:167-186. [DOI: 10.3390/gidisord5020015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is an immune-mediated inflammatory condition predominantly affecting the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. An increasing prevalence of IBD has been observed globally. The pathogenesis of IBD includes a complex interplay between the intestinal microbiome, diet, genetic factors and immune responses. The consequent imbalance of inflammatory mediators ultimately leads to intestinal mucosal damage and defective repair. Growth factors, given their specific roles in maintaining the homeostasis and integrity of the intestinal epithelium, are of particular interest in the setting of IBD. Furthermore, direct targeting of growth factor signalling pathways involved in the regeneration of the damaged epithelium and the regulation of inflammation could be considered as therapeutic options for individuals with IBD. Several members of the transforming growth factor (TGF)-β superfamily, particularly TGF-β, activin and follistatin, are key candidates as they exhibit various roles in inflammatory processes and contribute to maintenance and homeostasis in the GI tract. This article aimed firstly to review the events involved in the pathogenesis of IBD with particular emphasis on TGF-β, activin and follistatin and secondly to outline the potential role of therapeutic manipulation of these pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Andrew S. Day
- Paediatric Department, University of Otago Christchurch, Christchurch 8140, New Zealand
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7
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Kajabadi N, Low M, Jacques E, Lad H, Tung LW, Babaeijandaghi F, Gamu D, Zelada D, Wong CK, Chang C, Yi L, Wosczyna MN, Rando TA, Henríquez JP, Gibson WT, Gilbert PM, Rossi FMV. Activation of β-catenin in mesenchymal progenitors leads to muscle mass loss. Dev Cell 2023; 58:489-505.e7. [PMID: 36898377 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2023.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023]
Abstract
Loss of muscle mass is a common manifestation of chronic disease. We find the canonical Wnt pathway to be activated in mesenchymal progenitors (MPs) from cancer-induced cachectic mouse muscle. Next, we induce β-catenin transcriptional activity in murine MPs. As a result, we observe expansion of MPs in the absence of tissue damage, as well as rapid loss of muscle mass. Because MPs are present throughout the organism, we use spatially restricted CRE activation and show that the induction of tissue-resident MP activation is sufficient to induce muscle atrophy. We further identify increased expression of stromal NOGGIN and ACTIVIN-A as key drivers of atrophic processes in myofibers, and we verify their expression by MPs in cachectic muscle. Finally, we show that blocking ACTIVIN-A rescues the mass loss phenotype triggered by β-catenin activation in MPs, confirming its key functional role and strengthening the rationale for targeting this pathway in chronic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nasim Kajabadi
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, 2222 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Marcela Low
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, 2222 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada; Carrera de Química y Farmacia, Facultad de Medicina y Ciencia, Universidad San Sebastián, General Lagos 1163, 5090000 Valdivia, Chile
| | - Erik Jacques
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3G9, Canada; Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3E1, Canada
| | - Heta Lad
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3G9, Canada; Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3E1, Canada
| | - Lin Wei Tung
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, 2222 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Farshad Babaeijandaghi
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, 2222 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Daniel Gamu
- BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, 938 West 28th Avenue, Vancouver, BC V5Z 4H4, Canada; Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, C201, 4500 Oak Street, Vancouver, BC V6H 3N1, Canada
| | - Diego Zelada
- Neuromuscular Studies Laboratory (NeSt Lab), GDeP, Department of Cell Biology, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - Chi Kin Wong
- BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, 938 West 28th Avenue, Vancouver, BC V5Z 4H4, Canada; Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, C201, 4500 Oak Street, Vancouver, BC V6H 3N1, Canada
| | - Chihkai Chang
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, 2222 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Lin Yi
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, 2222 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Michael N Wosczyna
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Musculoskeletal Research Center, Bioengineering Institute, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10010, USA; Paul F. Glenn Center for the Biology of Aging, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Center for Tissue Regeneration, Repair and Restoration, Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA 94304, USA
| | - Thomas A Rando
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Broad Stem Cell Research Center, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Paul F. Glenn Center for the Biology of Aging, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Center for Tissue Regeneration, Repair and Restoration, Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA 94304, USA
| | - Juan Pablo Henríquez
- Neuromuscular Studies Laboratory (NeSt Lab), GDeP, Department of Cell Biology, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - William T Gibson
- BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, 938 West 28th Avenue, Vancouver, BC V5Z 4H4, Canada; Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, C201, 4500 Oak Street, Vancouver, BC V6H 3N1, Canada
| | - Penney M Gilbert
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3G9, Canada; Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3E1, Canada; Department of Cell and Systems Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3G5, Canada
| | - Fabio M V Rossi
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, 2222 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada.
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8
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Brent MB. Pharmaceutical treatment of bone loss: From animal models and drug development to future treatment strategies. Pharmacol Ther 2023; 244:108383. [PMID: 36933702 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2023.108383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2022] [Revised: 02/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023]
Abstract
Animal models are fundamental to advance our knowledge of the underlying pathophysiology of bone loss and to study pharmaceutical countermeasures against it. The animal model of post-menopausal osteoporosis from ovariectomy is the most widely used preclinical approach to study skeletal deterioration. However, several other animal models exist, each with unique characteristics such as bone loss from disuse, lactation, glucocorticoid excess, or exposure to hypobaric hypoxia. The present review aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of these animal models to emphasize the importance and significance of investigating bone loss and pharmaceutical countermeasures from perspectives other than post-menopausal osteoporosis only. Hence, the pathophysiology and underlying cellular mechanisms involved in the various types of bone loss are different, and this might influence which prevention and treatment strategies are the most effective. In addition, the review sought to map the current landscape of pharmaceutical countermeasures against osteoporosis with an emphasis on how drug development has changed from being driven by clinical observations and enhancement or repurposing of existing drugs to today's use of targeted anti-bodies that are the result of advanced insights into the underlying molecular mechanisms of bone formation and resorption. Moreover, new treatment combinations or repurposing opportunities of already approved drugs with a focus on dabigatran, parathyroid hormone and abaloparatide, growth hormone, inhibitors of the activin signaling pathway, acetazolamide, zoledronate, and romosozumab are discussed. Despite the considerable progress in drug development, there is still a clear need to improve treatment strategies and develop new pharmaceuticals against various types of osteoporosis. The review also highlights that new treatment indications should be explored using multiple animal models of bone loss in order to ensure a broad representation of different types of skeletal deterioration instead of mainly focusing on primary osteoporosis from post-menopausal estrogen deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikkel Bo Brent
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Denmark, Wilhelm Meyers Allé 3, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark.
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9
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Abstract
Myostatin (GDF-8) was discovered 25 years ago as a new transforming growth factor-β family member that acts as a master regulator of skeletal muscle mass. Myostatin is made by skeletal myofibers, circulates in the blood, and acts back on myofibers to limit growth. Myostatin appears to have all of the salient properties of a chalone, which is a term proposed over a half century ago to describe hypothetical circulating, tissue-specific growth inhibitors that control tissue size. The elucidation of the molecular, cellular, and physiological mechanisms underlying myostatin activity suggests that myostatin functions as a negative feedback regulator of muscle mass and raises the question as to whether this type of chalone mechanism is unique to skeletal muscle or whether it also operates in other tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Se-Jin Lee
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, Connecticut, USA.,The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, Connecticut, USA;
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10
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Cui Y, Yi Q, Sun W, Huang D, Zhang H, Duan L, Shang H, Wang D, Xiong J. Molecular basis and therapeutic potential of myostatin on bone formation and metabolism in orthopedic disease. Biofactors 2023; 49:21-31. [PMID: 32997846 DOI: 10.1002/biof.1675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Revised: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 08/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Myostatin, a member of the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) superfamily, is a key autocrine/paracrine inhibitor of skeletal muscle growth. Recently, researchers have postulated that myostatin is a negative regulator of bone formation and metabolism. Reportedly, myostatin is highly expressed in the fracture area, affecting the endochondral ossification process during the early stages of fracture healing. Furthermore, myostatin is highly expressed in the synovium of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and is an effective therapeutic target for interfering with osteoclast formation and joint destruction in RA. Thus, myostatin is a potent anti-osteogenic factor and a direct modulator of osteoclast differentiation. Evaluation of the molecular pathway revealed that myostatin can activate SMAD and mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathways, inhibiting the Wnt/β-catenin pathway to synergistically regulate muscle and bone growth and metabolism. In summary, inhibition of myostatin or the myostatin signaling pathway has therapeutic potential in the treatment of orthopedic diseases. This review focused on the effects of myostatin on bone formation and metabolism and discussed the potential therapeutic effects of inhibiting myostatin and its pathways in related orthopedic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinxing Cui
- Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Provincial Research Center for Artificial Intelligence and Digital Orthopedic Technology, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering, Shenzhen Laboratory of Digital Orthopedic Engineering, Department of Orthopedics, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital (The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Health Science Center), Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Qian Yi
- Guangdong Provincial Research Center for Artificial Intelligence and Digital Orthopedic Technology, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering, Shenzhen Laboratory of Digital Orthopedic Engineering, Department of Orthopedics, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital (The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Health Science Center), Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Weichao Sun
- Guangdong Provincial Research Center for Artificial Intelligence and Digital Orthopedic Technology, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering, Shenzhen Laboratory of Digital Orthopedic Engineering, Department of Orthopedics, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital (The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Health Science Center), Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Dixi Huang
- Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Provincial Research Center for Artificial Intelligence and Digital Orthopedic Technology, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering, Shenzhen Laboratory of Digital Orthopedic Engineering, Department of Orthopedics, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital (The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Health Science Center), Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Hui Zhang
- Guangdong Provincial Research Center for Artificial Intelligence and Digital Orthopedic Technology, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering, Shenzhen Laboratory of Digital Orthopedic Engineering, Department of Orthopedics, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital (The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Health Science Center), Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
- University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Li Duan
- Guangdong Provincial Research Center for Artificial Intelligence and Digital Orthopedic Technology, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering, Shenzhen Laboratory of Digital Orthopedic Engineering, Department of Orthopedics, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital (The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Health Science Center), Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Hongxi Shang
- Guangdong Provincial Research Center for Artificial Intelligence and Digital Orthopedic Technology, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering, Shenzhen Laboratory of Digital Orthopedic Engineering, Department of Orthopedics, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital (The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Health Science Center), Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Daping Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Research Center for Artificial Intelligence and Digital Orthopedic Technology, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering, Shenzhen Laboratory of Digital Orthopedic Engineering, Department of Orthopedics, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital (The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Health Science Center), Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Jianyi Xiong
- Guangdong Provincial Research Center for Artificial Intelligence and Digital Orthopedic Technology, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering, Shenzhen Laboratory of Digital Orthopedic Engineering, Department of Orthopedics, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital (The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Health Science Center), Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
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11
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Lin JZ, Ma JD, Yang LJ, Zou YW, Zhang XP, Pan J, Li QH, Li HG, Yang ZH, Wu T, Zhang Q, Mo YQ, Dai L. Myokine myostatin is a novel predictor of one-year radiographic progression in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: A prospective cohort study. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1005161. [PMID: 36330524 PMCID: PMC9623067 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1005161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Associations between rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and reduced skeletal muscle have been studied, and we firstly reported myopenia independently predict one-year radiographic progression in RA. Myokine myostatin can negatively regulate skeletal muscle mass and promote osteoclast differentiation. However, there is no report about their relationships in RA patients. We firstly explored the relationship of serum myostatin and disease characteristics, as well as aggravated joint destruction during one-year follow-up. Methods Consecutive RA patients were recruited from a real-world prospective cohort and completed at least one-year follow-up. Baseline serum level of myostatin was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Clinical data in RA patients as well as muscle index in both RA patients and healthy controls were collected. One-year radiographic progression as primary outcome was defined by a change in the total Sharp/van der Heijde modified score ≥0.5 units. Results Totally 344 RA patients (age 47.9 ± 12.5 years, 84.0% female) and 118 healthy control subjects (age 42.8 ± 11.3 years, 74.6% female) were recruited. Compared with healthy controls, RA patients showed a higher level of serum myostatin at baseline (3.241 ± 1.679 ng/ml vs. 1.717 ± 0.872 ng/ml, P<0.001), although lower appendicular skeletal muscle mass index (ASMI, 6.0 ± 0.9 kg/m2vs. 6.5 ± 1.0 kg/m2, P<0.001). In RA patients, those with high myostatin level showed a higher rate of radiographic progression than low myostatin group (45.3% vs. 18.6%, P<0.001). Furtherly, RA patients were stratified into four subgroups according to serum myostatin and myopenia. Compared with other three subgroups, RA patients with high myostatin overlapping myopenia had the highest rate of radiographic progression (67.2% vs. 10.3%-31.4%, P<0.001), as well as the lowest proportion of remission and the highest rate of physical dysfunction during one-year follow-up. After adjustment for confounding factors, high serum myostatin (AOR=3.451, 95%CI: 2.016-5.905) and myopenia (AOR=2.387, 95%CI: 1.416-4.022) at baseline were risk factors for one-year radiographic progression, especially for those with high myostatin overlapping myopenia (AOR=10.425, 95%CI: 3.959-27.450) as the highest-risk individuals among four subgroups. Significant synergistic interaction effect was observed between high myostatin and myopenia on one-year radiographic progression (AP=66.3%, 95%CI: 43.2%-89.3%). Conclusion Myostatin is a novel predictor of aggravated joint destruction in RA patients which has synergistic interaction with myopenia for predicting value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian-Zi Lin
- Department of Rheumatology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jian-Da Ma
- Department of Rheumatology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Li-Juan Yang
- Department of Rheumatology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yao-Wei Zou
- Department of Rheumatology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xue-Pei Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jie Pan
- Department of Rheumatology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qian-Hua Li
- Department of Rheumatology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hong-Gui Li
- Department of Rheumatology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ze-Hong Yang
- Department of Radiology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tao Wu
- Department of Rheumatology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qian Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ying-Qian Mo
- Department of Rheumatology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Rheumatology, Shenshan Medical Center, Memorial Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Shanwei, China
- *Correspondence: Ying-Qian Mo, ; Lie Dai,
| | - Lie Dai
- Department of Rheumatology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Ying-Qian Mo, ; Lie Dai,
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12
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Goebel EJ, Ongaro L, Kappes EC, Vestal K, Belcheva E, Castonguay R, Kumar R, Bernard DJ, Thompson TB. The orphan ligand, activin C, signals through activin receptor-like kinase 7. eLife 2022; 11:78197. [PMID: 35736809 PMCID: PMC9224996 DOI: 10.7554/elife.78197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Activin ligands are formed from two disulfide-linked inhibin β (Inhβ) subunit chains. They exist as homodimeric proteins, as in the case of activin A (ActA; InhβA/InhβA) or activin C (ActC; InhβC/InhβC), or as heterodimers, as with activin AC (ActAC; InhβA:InhβC). While the biological functions of ActA and activin B (ActB) have been well characterized, little is known about the biological functions of ActC or ActAC. One thought is that the InhβC chain functions to interfere with ActA production by forming less active ActAC heterodimers. Here, we assessed and characterized the signaling capacity of ligands containing the InhβC chain. ActC and ActAC activated SMAD2/3-dependent signaling via the type I receptor, activin receptor-like kinase 7 (ALK7). Relative to ActA and ActB, ActC exhibited lower affinity for the cognate activin type II receptors and was resistant to neutralization by the extracellular antagonist, follistatin. In mature murine adipocytes, which exhibit high ALK7 expression, ActC elicited a SMAD2/3 response similar to ActB, which can also signal via ALK7. Collectively, these results establish that ActC and ActAC are active ligands that exhibit a distinct signaling receptor and antagonist profile compared to other activins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erich J Goebel
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Biochemistry, and Microbiology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, United States
| | - Luisina Ongaro
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Centre for Research in Reproduction and Development, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Emily C Kappes
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Biochemistry, and Microbiology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, United States
| | - Kylie Vestal
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Biochemistry, and Microbiology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, United States
| | | | | | | | - Daniel J Bernard
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Centre for Research in Reproduction and Development, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Thomas B Thompson
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Biochemistry, and Microbiology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, United States
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13
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Joshi SR, Liu J, Bloom T, Karaca Atabay E, Kuo TH, Lee M, Belcheva E, Spaits M, Grenha R, Maguire MC, Frost JL, Wang K, Briscoe SD, Alexander MJ, Herrin BR, Castonguay R, Pearsall RS, Andre P, Yu PB, Kumar R, Li G. Sotatercept analog suppresses inflammation to reverse experimental pulmonary arterial hypertension. Sci Rep 2022; 12:7803. [PMID: 35551212 PMCID: PMC9098455 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-11435-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Sotatercept is an activin receptor type IIA-Fc (ActRIIA-Fc) fusion protein that improves cardiopulmonary function in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) by selectively trapping activins and growth differentiation factors. However, the cellular and molecular mechanisms of ActRIIA-Fc action are incompletely understood. Here, we determined through genome-wide expression profiling that inflammatory and immune responses are prominently upregulated in the lungs of a Sugen-hypoxia rat model of severe angio-obliterative PAH, concordant with profiles observed in PAH patients. Therapeutic treatment with ActRIIA-Fc-but not with a vasodilator-strikingly reversed proinflammatory and proliferative gene expression profiles and normalized macrophage infiltration in diseased rodent lungs. Furthermore, ActRIIA-Fc normalized pulmonary macrophage infiltration and corrected cardiopulmonary structure and function in Bmpr2 haploinsufficient mice subjected to hypoxia, a model of heritable PAH. Three high-affinity ligands of ActRIIA-Fc each induced macrophage activation in vitro, and their combined immunoneutralization in PAH rats produced cardiopulmonary benefits comparable to those elicited by ActRIIA-Fc. Our results in complementary experimental and genetic models of PAH reveal therapeutic anti-inflammatory activities of ActRIIA-Fc that, together with its known anti-proliferative effects on vascular cell types, could underlie clinical activity of sotatercept as either monotherapy or add-on to current PAH therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sachindra R Joshi
- Discovery Group, Acceleron Pharma Inc., a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | - Jun Liu
- Discovery Group, Acceleron Pharma Inc., a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | - Troy Bloom
- Discovery Group, Acceleron Pharma Inc., a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
- Ultivue, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Elif Karaca Atabay
- Discovery Group, Acceleron Pharma Inc., a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | - Tzu-Hsing Kuo
- Discovery Group, Acceleron Pharma Inc., a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | - Michael Lee
- Discovery Group, Acceleron Pharma Inc., a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | - Elitza Belcheva
- Discovery Group, Acceleron Pharma Inc., a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | - Matthew Spaits
- Discovery Group, Acceleron Pharma Inc., a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | - Rosa Grenha
- Discovery Group, Acceleron Pharma Inc., a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | - Michelle C Maguire
- Discovery Group, Acceleron Pharma Inc., a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | - Jeffrey L Frost
- Discovery Group, Acceleron Pharma Inc., a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | - Kathryn Wang
- Discovery Group, Acceleron Pharma Inc., a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | - Steven D Briscoe
- Discovery Group, Acceleron Pharma Inc., a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | - Mark J Alexander
- Discovery Group, Acceleron Pharma Inc., a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | - Brantley R Herrin
- Discovery Group, Acceleron Pharma Inc., a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | - Roselyne Castonguay
- Discovery Group, Acceleron Pharma Inc., a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | - R Scott Pearsall
- Discovery Group, Acceleron Pharma Inc., a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
- Cellarity, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Patrick Andre
- Discovery Group, Acceleron Pharma Inc., a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | - Paul B Yu
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Ravindra Kumar
- Discovery Group, Acceleron Pharma Inc., a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | - Gang Li
- Discovery Group, Acceleron Pharma Inc., a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA.
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14
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Omosule CL, Joseph D, Weiler B, Gremminger VL, Silvey S, Jeong Y, Rafique A, Krueger P, Kleiner S, Phillips CL. Combinatorial Inhibition of Myostatin and Activin A Improves Femoral Bone Properties in the G610C Mouse Model of Osteogenesis Imperfecta. J Bone Miner Res 2022; 37:938-953. [PMID: 35195284 PMCID: PMC10041862 DOI: 10.1002/jbmr.4529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Revised: 01/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) is a collagen-related bone disorder characterized by fragile osteopenic bone and muscle weakness. We have previously shown that the soluble activin receptor type IIB decoy (sActRIIB) molecule increases muscle mass and improves bone strength in the mild to moderate G610C mouse model of OI. The sActRIIB molecule binds multiple transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) ligands, including myostatin and activin A. Here, we investigate the musculoskeletal effects of inhibiting activin A alone, myostatin alone, or both myostatin and activin A in wild-type (Wt) and heterozygous G610C (+/G610C) mice using specific monoclonal antibodies. Male and female Wt and +/G610C mice were treated twice weekly with intraperitoneal injections of monoclonal control antibody (Ctrl-Ab, Regn1945), anti-activin A antibody (ActA-Ab, Regn2476), anti-myostatin antibody (Mstn-Ab, Regn647), or both ActA-Ab and Mstn-Ab (Combo, Regn2476, and Regn647) from 5 to 16 weeks of age. Prior to euthanasia, whole body composition, metabolism and muscle force generation assessments were performed. Post euthanasia, hindlimb muscles were evaluated for mass, and femurs were evaluated for changes in microarchitecture and biomechanical strength using micro-computed tomography (μCT) and three-point bend analyses. ActA-Ab treatment minimally impacted the +/G610C musculoskeleton, and was detrimental to bone strength in male +/G610C mice. Mstn-Ab treatment, as previously reported, resulted in substantial increases in hindlimb muscle weights and overall body weights in Wt and male +/G610C mice, but had minimal skeletal impact in +/G610C mice. Conversely, the Combo treatment outperformed ActA-Ab alone or Mstn-Ab alone, consistently increasing hindlimb muscle and body weights regardless of sex or genotype and improving bone microarchitecture and strength in both male and female +/G610C and Wt mice. Combinatorial inhibition of activin A and myostatin more potently increased muscle mass and bone microarchitecture and strength than either antibody alone, recapturing most of the observed benefits of sActRIIB treatment in +/G610C mice. © 2022 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Dominique Joseph
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Brooke Weiler
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | | | - Spencer Silvey
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Youngjae Jeong
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | | | | | | | - Charlotte L Phillips
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA.,Department of Child Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
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15
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Puolakkainen T, Rummukainen P, Pihala-Nieminen V, Ritvos O, Savontaus E, Kiviranta R. Treatment with Soluble Activin Type IIB Receptor Ameliorates Ovariectomy-Induced Bone Loss and Fat Gain in Mice. Calcif Tissue Int 2022; 110:504-517. [PMID: 35024891 PMCID: PMC8927044 DOI: 10.1007/s00223-021-00934-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In postmenopausal osteoporosis, hormonal changes lead to increased bone turnover and metabolic alterations including increased fat mass and insulin resistance. Activin type IIB receptors bind several growth factors of the TGF-β superfamily and have been demonstrated to increase muscle and bone mass. We hypothesized that ActRIIB-Fc treatment could improve bone and muscle mass, inhibit fat accumulation, and restore metabolic alterations in an ovariectomy (OVX) model of postmenopausal osteoporosis. MATERIALS AND METHODS Female C57Bl/6 N mice were subjected to SHAM or OVX procedures and received intraperitoneal injections of either PBS or ActRIIB-Fc (5 mg/kg) once weekly for 7 weeks. Glucose and insulin tolerance tests (GTT and ITT, respectively) were performed at 7 and 8 weeks, respectively. Bone samples were analyzed with micro-computed tomography imaging, histomorphometry, and quantitative RT-PCR. RESULTS Bone mass decreased in OVX PBS mice compared to the SHAM PBS group but ActRIIB-Fc was able to prevent these changes as shown by µCT and histological analyses. This was due to decreased osteoclast numbers and function demonstrated by histomorphometric and qRT-PCR analyses. OVX induced adipocyte hypertrophy that was rescued by ActRIIB-Fc, which also decreased systemic adipose tissue accumulation. OVX itself did not affect glucose levels in GTT but ActRIIB-Fc treatment resulted in impaired glucose clearance in both SHAM and OVX groups. OVX induced mild insulin resistance in ITT but ActRIIB-Fc treatment did not affect this. CONCLUSION Our results reinforce the potency of ActRIIB-Fc as a bone-enhancing agent but also bring new insight into the metabolic effects of ActRIIB-Fc in normal and OVX mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tero Puolakkainen
- Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Kiinamyllynkatu 10, 20520, Turku, Finland
| | - Petri Rummukainen
- Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Kiinamyllynkatu 10, 20520, Turku, Finland
| | - Vappu Pihala-Nieminen
- Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Kiinamyllynkatu 10, 20520, Turku, Finland
| | - Olli Ritvos
- Department of Physiology, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Eriika Savontaus
- Clinical Pharmacology, Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
- Turku Center for Disease Modeling, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Riku Kiviranta
- Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Kiinamyllynkatu 10, 20520, Turku, Finland.
- Department of Endocrinology, Division of Medicine, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland.
- Turku Center for Disease Modeling, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.
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16
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Lee SJ, Lehar A, Rydzik R, Youngstrom DW, Bhasin S, Liu Y, Germain-Lee EL. Functional replacement of myostatin with GDF-11 in the germline of mice. Skelet Muscle 2022; 12:7. [PMID: 35287700 PMCID: PMC8922734 DOI: 10.1186/s13395-022-00290-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Myostatin (MSTN) is a transforming growth factor-ß superfamily member that acts as a major regulator of skeletal muscle mass. GDF-11, which is highly related to MSTN, plays multiple roles during embryonic development, including regulating development of the axial skeleton, kidneys, nervous system, and pancreas. As MSTN and GDF-11 share a high degree of amino acid sequence identity, behave virtually identically in cell culture assays, and utilize similar regulatory and signaling components, a critical question is whether their distinct biological functions result from inherent differences in their abilities to interact with specific regulatory and signaling components or whether their distinct biological functions mainly reflect their differing temporal and spatial patterns of expression. METHODS We generated and characterized mice in which we precisely replaced in the germline the portion of the Mstn gene encoding the mature C-terminal peptide with the corresponding region of Gdf11. RESULTS In mice homozygous for the knock-in allele, all of the circulating MSTN protein was replaced with GDF-11, resulting in ~ 30-40-fold increased levels of circulating GDF-11. Male mice homozygous for the knock-in allele had slightly decreased muscle weights, slightly increased weight gain in response to a high-fat diet, slightly increased plasma cholesterol and HDL levels, and significantly decreased bone density and bone mass, whereas female mice were mostly unaffected. CONCLUSIONS GDF-11 appears to be capable of nearly completely functionally replacing MSTN in the control of muscle mass. The developmental and physiological consequences of replacing MSTN with GDF-11 are strikingly limited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Se-Jin Lee
- The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA. .,Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA.
| | - Adam Lehar
- The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Renata Rydzik
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Daniel W Youngstrom
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Shalender Bhasin
- Brigham Research Assay Core Laboratory, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Research Program in Men's Health: Aging and Metabolism, Boston Claude D. Pepper Older Americans Independence Center, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Yewei Liu
- The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Emily L Germain-Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA.,Department of Reconstructive Sciences, Center for Regenerative Medicine and Skeletal Development, University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA.,Division of Endocrinology & Diabetes and Center for Rare Bone Disorders, Connecticut Children's, Farmington, CT, USA
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17
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Mills EG, Yang L, Nielsen MF, Kassem M, Dhillo WS, Comninos AN. The Relationship Between Bone and Reproductive Hormones Beyond Estrogens and Androgens. Endocr Rev 2021; 42:691-719. [PMID: 33901271 PMCID: PMC8599211 DOI: 10.1210/endrev/bnab015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Reproductive hormones play a crucial role in the growth and maintenance of the mammalian skeleton. Indeed, the biological significance for this hormonal regulation of skeletal homeostasis is best illustrated by common clinical reproductive disorders, such as primary ovarian insufficiency, hypothalamic amenorrhea, congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, and early menopause, which contribute to the clinical burden of low bone mineral density and increased risk for fragility fracture. Emerging evidence relating to traditional reproductive hormones and the recent discovery of newer reproductive neuropeptides and hormones has deepened our understanding of the interaction between bone and the reproductive system. In this review, we provide a contemporary summary of the literature examining the relationship between bone biology and reproductive signals that extend beyond estrogens and androgens, and include kisspeptin, gonadotropin-releasing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, prolactin, progesterone, inhibin, activin, and relaxin. A comprehensive and up-to-date review of the recent basic and clinical research advances is essential given the prevalence of clinical reproductive disorders, the emerging roles of upstream reproductive hormones in bone physiology, as well as the urgent need to develop novel safe and effective therapies for bone fragility in a rapidly aging population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edouard G Mills
- Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Lisa Yang
- Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Morten F Nielsen
- Department of Endocrinology, University Hospital of Odense & institute of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, 5000 Odense C, Denmark
| | - Moustapha Kassem
- Department of Endocrinology, University Hospital of Odense & institute of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, 5000 Odense C, Denmark.,Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark
| | - Waljit S Dhillo
- Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Imperial College London, London, UK.,Department of Endocrinology, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Alexander N Comninos
- Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Imperial College London, London, UK.,Department of Endocrinology, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK.,Endocrine Bone Unit, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
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18
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Colucci S, Altamura S, Marques O, Dropmann A, Horvat NK, Müdder K, Hammad S, Dooley S, Muckenthaler MU. Liver Sinusoidal Endothelial Cells Suppress Bone Morphogenetic Protein 2 Production in Response to TGFβ Pathway Activation. Hepatology 2021; 74:2186-2200. [PMID: 33982327 DOI: 10.1002/hep.31900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Revised: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS TGFβ/bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling in the liver plays a critical role in liver disease. Growth factors, such as BMP2, BMP6, and TGFβ1, are released from LSECs and signal in a paracrine manner to hepatocytes and hepatic stellate cells to control systemic iron homeostasis and fibrotic processes, respectively. The misregulation of the TGFβ/BMP pathway affects expression of the iron-regulated hormone hepcidin, causing frequent iron overload and deficiency diseases. However, whether LSEC-secreted factors can act in an autocrine manner to maintain liver homeostasis has not been addressed so far. APPROACH AND RESULTS We analyzed publicly available RNA-sequencing data of mouse LSECs for ligand-receptor interactions and identified members of the TGFβ family (BMP2, BMP6, and TGFβ1) as ligands with the highest expression levels in LSECs that may signal in an autocrine manner. We next tested the soluble factors identified through in silico analysis in optimized murine LSEC primary cultures and mice. Exposure of murine LSEC primary cultures to these ligands shows that autocrine responses to BMP2 and BMP6 are blocked despite high expression levels of the required receptor complexes partially involving the inhibitor FK-506-binding protein 12. By contrast, LSECs respond efficiently to TGFβ1 treatment, which causes reduced expression of BMP2 through activation of activin receptor-like kinase 5. CONCLUSIONS These findings reveal that TGFβ1 signaling is functionally interlinked with BMP signaling in LSECs, suggesting druggable targets for the treatment of iron overload diseases associated with deficiency of the BMP2-regulated hormone hepcidin, such as hereditary hemochromatosis, β-thalassemia, and chronic liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Colucci
- Department of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Immunology, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,Molecular Medicine Partnership Unit (MMPU), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Sandro Altamura
- Department of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Immunology, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,Molecular Medicine Partnership Unit (MMPU), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Oriana Marques
- Department of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Immunology, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,Molecular Medicine Partnership Unit (MMPU), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Anne Dropmann
- Section Molecular Hepatology, Department of Medicine II, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Natalie K Horvat
- Molecular Medicine Partnership Unit (MMPU), Heidelberg, Germany.,European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Katja Müdder
- Department of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Immunology, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Seddik Hammad
- Section Molecular Hepatology, Department of Medicine II, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany.,Department of Forensic and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, South Valley University, Qena, Egypt
| | - Steven Dooley
- Section Molecular Hepatology, Department of Medicine II, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Martina U Muckenthaler
- Department of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Immunology, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,Molecular Medicine Partnership Unit (MMPU), Heidelberg, Germany
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19
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Functionally diverse heteromeric traps for ligands of the transforming growth factor-β superfamily. Sci Rep 2021; 11:18341. [PMID: 34526551 PMCID: PMC8443706 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-97203-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Ligands of the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) superfamily are important targets for therapeutic intervention but present challenges because they signal combinatorially and exhibit overlapping activities in vivo. To obtain agents capable of sequestering multiple TGF-β superfamily ligands with novel selectivity, we generated soluble, heterodimeric ligand traps by pairing the extracellular domain (ECD) of the native activin receptor type IIB (ActRIIB) alternately with the ECDs of native type I receptors activin receptor-like kinase 4 (ALK4), ALK7, or ALK3. Systematic analysis of these heterodimeric constructs by surface plasmon resonance, and comparison with their homodimeric counterparts, revealed that each type I receptor partner confers a distinct ligand-binding profile to the heterodimeric construct. Additional characterization in cell-based reporter gene assays confirmed that the heterodimeric constructs possessed different profiles of signaling inhibition in vitro, which translated into altered patterns of pharmacological activity when constructs were administered systemically to wild-type mice. Our results detail a versatile platform for the modular recombination of naturally occurring receptor domains, giving rise to inhibitory ligand traps that could aid in defining the physiological roles of TGF-β ligand sets or be directed therapeutically to human diseases arising from dysregulated TGF-β superfamily signaling.
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20
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Yung LM, Yang P, Joshi S, Augur ZM, Kim SSJ, Bocobo GA, Dinter T, Troncone L, Chen PS, McNeil ME, Southwood M, Poli de Frias S, Knopf J, Rosas IO, Sako D, Pearsall RS, Quisel JD, Li G, Kumar R, Yu PB. ACTRIIA-Fc rebalances activin/GDF versus BMP signaling in pulmonary hypertension. Sci Transl Med 2021; 12:12/543/eaaz5660. [PMID: 32404506 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.aaz5660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2019] [Revised: 01/22/2020] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Human genetics, biomarker, and animal studies implicate loss of function in bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling and maladaptive transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ) signaling as drivers of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Although sharing common receptors and effectors with BMP/TGFβ, the function of activin and growth and differentiation factor (GDF) ligands in PAH are less well defined. Increased expression of GDF8, GDF11, and activin A was detected in lung lesions from humans with PAH and experimental rodent models of pulmonary hypertension (PH). ACTRIIA-Fc, a potent GDF8/11 and activin ligand trap, was used to test the roles of these ligands in animal and cellular models of PH. By blocking GDF8/11- and activin-mediated SMAD2/3 activation in vascular cells, ACTRIIA-Fc attenuated proliferation of pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells and pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells. In several experimental models of PH, prophylactic administration of ACTRIIA-Fc markedly improved hemodynamics, right ventricular (RV) hypertrophy, RV function, and arteriolar remodeling. When administered after the establishment of hemodynamically severe PH in a vasculoproliferative model, ACTRIIA-Fc was more effective than vasodilator in attenuating PH and arteriolar remodeling. Potent antiremodeling effects of ACTRIIA-Fc were associated with inhibition of SMAD2/3 activation and downstream transcriptional activity, inhibition of proliferation, and enhancement of apoptosis in the vascular wall. ACTRIIA-Fc reveals an unexpectedly prominent role of GDF8, GDF11, and activin as drivers of pulmonary vascular disease and represents a therapeutic strategy for restoring the balance between SMAD1/5/9 and SMAD2/3 signaling in PAH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lai-Ming Yung
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Peiran Yang
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | | | - Zachary M Augur
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Stephanie S J Kim
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Geoffrey A Bocobo
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Teresa Dinter
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Luca Troncone
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Po-Sheng Chen
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA.,Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan City 704, Taiwan
| | - Megan E McNeil
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Mark Southwood
- Department of Pathology, Royal Papworth Hospital, Cambridge CB2 0AY, UK
| | - Sergio Poli de Frias
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - John Knopf
- Acceleron Pharma Inc., Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Ivan O Rosas
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Dianne Sako
- Acceleron Pharma Inc., Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | | | | | - Gang Li
- Acceleron Pharma Inc., Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | | | - Paul B Yu
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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21
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Activin-A Induces Early Differential Gene Expression Exclusively in Periodontal Ligament Fibroblasts from Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva Patients. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9060629. [PMID: 34205844 PMCID: PMC8229991 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9060629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Revised: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva (FOP) is a rare genetic disease characterized by heterotopic ossification (HO). It is caused by mutations in the Activin receptor type 1 (ACVR1) gene, resulting in enhanced responsiveness to ligands, specifically to Activin-A. Though it has been shown that capturing Activin-A protects against heterotopic ossification in animal models, the exact underlying mechanisms at the gene expression level causing ACVR1 R206H-mediated ossifications and progression are thus far unknown. We investigated the early transcriptomic changes induced by Activin-A of healthy control and patient-derived periodontal ligament fibroblasts (PLF) isolated from extracted teeth by RNA sequencing analysis. To study early differences in response to Activin-A, periodontal ligament fibroblasts from six control teeth and from six FOP patient teeth were cultured for 24 h without and with 50 ng/mL Activin-A and analyzed with RNA sequencing. Pathway analysis on genes upregulated by Activin-A in FOP cells showed an association with pathways involved in, among others, Activin, TGFβ, and BMP signaling. Differential gene expression induced by Activin-A was exclusively seen in the FOP cells. Median centered supervised gene expression analysis showed distinct clusters of up- and downregulated genes in the FOP cultures after stimulation with Activin-A. The upregulated genes with high fold changes like SHOC2, TTC1, PAPSS2, DOCK7, and LOX are all associated with bone metabolism. Our open-ended approach to investigating the early effect of Activin-A on gene expression in control and FOP PLF shows that the molecule exclusively induces differential gene expression in FOP cells and not in control cells.
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22
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Lodberg A. Principles of the activin receptor signaling pathway and its inhibition. Cytokine Growth Factor Rev 2021; 60:1-17. [PMID: 33933900 DOI: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2021.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Revised: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
This review captures the anabolic and stimulatory effects observed with inhibition of the transforming growth factor β superfamily in muscle, blood, and bone. New medicinal substances that rectify activin, myostatin, and growth differentiation factor 11 signaling give hope to the many whose lives are affected by deterioration of these tissues. The review first covers the origin, structure, and common pathway of activins, myostatin, and growth differentiation factor 11 along with the pharmacodynamics of the new class of molecules designed to oppose the activin receptor signaling pathway. Current terminology surrounding this new class of molecules is inconsistent and does not infer functionality. Adopting inhibitors of the activin receptor signaling pathway (IASPs) as a generic term is proposed because it encapsulates the molecular mechanisms along the pathway trajectory. To conclude, a pragmatic classification of IASPs is presented that integrates functionality and side effects based on the data available from animals and humans. This provides researchers and clinicians with a tool to tailor IASPs therapy according to the need of projects or patients and with respect to side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Lodberg
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Department of Respiratory Diseases and Allergy, Aarhus University Hospital, Wilhelm Meyers Allé, DK-8000, Aarhus, Denmark.
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23
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Blomberg Jensen M, Andreassen CH, Jørgensen A, Nielsen JE, Juel Mortensen L, Boisen IM, Schwarz P, Toppari J, Baron R, Lanske B, Juul A. RANKL regulates male reproductive function. Nat Commun 2021; 12:2450. [PMID: 33893301 PMCID: PMC8065035 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-22734-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2019] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Infertile men have few treatment options. Here, we demonstrate that the transmembrane receptor activator of NF-kB ligand (RANKL) signaling system is active in mouse and human testis. RANKL is highly expressed in Sertoli cells and signals through RANK, expressed in most germ cells, whereas the RANKL-inhibitor osteoprotegerin (OPG) is expressed in germ and peritubular cells. OPG treatment increases wild-type mouse sperm counts, and mice with global or Sertoli-specific genetic suppression of Rankl have increased male fertility and sperm counts. Moreover, RANKL levels in seminal fluid are high and distinguishes normal from infertile men with higher specificity than total sperm count. In infertile men, one dose of Denosumab decreases RANKL seminal fluid concentration and increases serum Inhibin-B and anti-Müllerian-hormone levels, but semen quality only in a subgroup. This translational study suggests that RANKL is a regulator of male reproductive function, however, predictive biomarkers for treatment-outcome requires further investigation in placebo-controlled studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Blomberg Jensen
- Group of Skeletal, Mineral and Gonadal Endocrinology, Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
- Division of Bone and Mineral Research, HSDM/HMS, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Christine Hjorth Andreassen
- Group of Skeletal, Mineral and Gonadal Endocrinology, Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anne Jørgensen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction and International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - John Erik Nielsen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction and International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Li Juel Mortensen
- Group of Skeletal, Mineral and Gonadal Endocrinology, Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Division of Bone and Mineral Research, HSDM/HMS, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ida Marie Boisen
- Group of Skeletal, Mineral and Gonadal Endocrinology, Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Division of Bone and Mineral Research, HSDM/HMS, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Peter Schwarz
- Department of Endocrinology, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jorma Toppari
- Institute of Biomedicine, Research Centre for Integrated Physiology and Pharmacology, and Centre for Population Health Research, University of Turku, and Department of Pediatrics, Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
| | - Roland Baron
- Division of Bone and Mineral Research, HSDM/HMS, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Beate Lanske
- Division of Bone and Mineral Research, HSDM/HMS, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Anders Juul
- Department of Growth and Reproduction and International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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24
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Omosule CL, Gremminger VL, Aguillard AM, Jeong Y, Harrelson EN, Miloscio L, Mastaitis J, Rafique A, Kleiner S, Pfeiffer FM, Zhang A, Schulz LC, Phillips CL. Impact of Genetic and Pharmacologic Inhibition of Myostatin in a Murine Model of Osteogenesis Imperfecta. J Bone Miner Res 2021; 36:739-756. [PMID: 33249643 PMCID: PMC8111798 DOI: 10.1002/jbmr.4223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Revised: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) is a genetic connective tissue disorder characterized by compromised skeletal integrity, altered microarchitecture, and bone fragility. Current OI treatment strategies focus on bone antiresorptives and surgical intervention with limited effectiveness, and thus identifying alternative therapeutic options remains critical. Muscle is an important stimulus for bone formation. Myostatin, a TGF-β superfamily myokine, acts through ActRIIB to negatively regulate muscle growth. Recent studies demonstrated the potential benefit of myostatin inhibition with the soluble ActRIIB fusion protein on skeletal properties, although various OI mouse models exhibited variable skeletal responses. The genetic and clinical heterogeneity associated with OI, the lack of specificity of the ActRIIB decoy molecule for myostatin alone, and adverse events in human clinical trials further the need to clarify myostatin's therapeutic potential and role in skeletal integrity. In this study, we determined musculoskeletal outcomes of genetic myostatin deficiency and postnatal pharmacological myostatin inhibition by a monoclonal anti-myostatin antibody (Regn647) in the G610C mouse, a model of mild-moderate type I/IV human OI. In the postnatal study, 5-week-old wild-type and +/G610C male and female littermates were treated with Regn647 or a control antibody for 11 weeks or for 7 weeks followed by a 4-week treatment holiday. Inhibition of myostatin, whether genetically or pharmacologically, increased muscle mass regardless of OI genotype, although to varying degrees. Genetic myostatin deficiency increased hindlimb muscle weights by 6.9% to 34.4%, whereas pharmacological inhibition increased them by 13.5% to 29.6%. Female +/mstn +/G610C (Dbl.Het) mice tended to have similar trabecular and cortical bone parameters as Wt showing reversal of +/G610C characteristics but with minimal effect of +/mstn occurring in male mice. Pharmacologic myostatin inhibition failed to improve skeletal bone properties of male or female +/G610C mice, although skeletal microarchitectural and biomechanical improvements were observed in male wild-type mice. Four-week treatment holiday did not alter skeletal outcomes. © 2020 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Youngjae Jeong
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Emily N Harrelson
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Ferris M Pfeiffer
- Department of Biomedical, Biological, and Chemical Engineering, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Anqing Zhang
- Department of Biostatistics and Research Design, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Laura C Schulz
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Women's Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Charlotte L Phillips
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA.,Department of Child Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
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25
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Brent MB, Lodberg A, Bromer FD, van der Eerden BCJ, Eijken M, Brüel A, Thomsen JS. Activin type IIA decoy receptor and intermittent parathyroid hormone in combination overturns the bone loss in disuse-osteopenic mice. Bone 2021; 142:115692. [PMID: 33069923 DOI: 10.1016/j.bone.2020.115692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Revised: 09/25/2020] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Damage of the lower motor neuron cell bodies or their axons results in reduced or abolished voluntary movement accompanied by a substantial loss of bone and muscle mass. Intermittent parathyroid hormone 1-34 (PTH) (teriparatide) is one of the most potent bone-anabolic treatment regimens. ActRIIA-mFc is an activin type IIA decoy receptor that increases bone mass mediated by inhibition of the activin receptor signaling pathway. We investigated whether PTH or ActRIIA-mFc alone or in combination could prevent loss of bone and muscle mass induced by injecting botulinum toxin A (BTX) into the right hind limb in mice. Seventy-two 16-week-old female C57BL/6 mice were allocated to the following groups: Baseline, Control, BTX, BTX + ActRIIA-mFc (10 mg/kg), BTX + PTH (100 μg/kg), and BTX + ActRIIA-mFc + PTH. The mice were sacrificed after three weeks of disuse and treatment. In contrast to monotherapy with PTH, ActRIIA-mFc alone or in combination with PTH was able partly or completely to prevent disuse-induced loss of whole femoral bone mass, trabecular thickness, and bone strength. Moreover, an additive effect of ActRIIA-mFc and PTH on areal bone mineral density and trabecular bone volume was found. In summary, ActRIIA-mFc and PTH in combination were more effective in preventing disuse-induced bone loss and deterioration of trabecular micro-architecture than either treatment alone.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Bram C J van der Eerden
- Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Marco Eijken
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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26
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Meier D, Lodberg A, Gvozdenovic A, Pellegrini G, Neklyudova O, Born W, Fuchs B, Eijken M, M. Botter S. Inhibition of the activin receptor signaling pathway: A novel intervention against osteosarcoma. Cancer Med 2021; 10:286-296. [PMID: 33179858 PMCID: PMC7826474 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.3581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2020] [Revised: 10/05/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Osteosarcoma is a cancer of pathological bone remodeling with high mortality and severe comorbidity. New therapies are urgently needed. Activin A, a member of the transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) superfamily, has been suggested to stimulate proliferation and invasion of osteosarcoma cells in vitro, thus representing a potential therapeutic target. In this study, inhibition of the activin receptor signaling pathway was explored as a therapy for osteosarcoma. In a murine intratibial osteosarcoma xenograft model, two types of inhibitors were tested: (a) a soluble activin type IIA decoy receptor (ActRIIA-mFc), or (b) a modified variant of follistatin (FSTΔHBS -hFc), either alone or in combination with a bisphosphonate. Both inhibitors reduced primary tumor development by nearly 50% compared to vehicle treatment. When ActRIIA-mFc was combined with bisphosphonate, the effect on tumor size became even more pronounced (78% reduction vs. vehicle). Moreover, FSTΔHBS -hFc increased body weight in the face of tumor progression (14% increase vs. vehicle), and ActRIIA-mFc reduced the number of lung metastases when combined with bisphosphonate. The present study demonstrates a novel approach to treating osteosarcoma and encourages further investigation of inhibition of the activin receptor signaling pathway as an intervention against the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Meier
- Department of OrthopedicsBalgrist University HospitalZurichSwitzerland
| | - Andreas Lodberg
- Department of BiomedicineAarhus UniversityAarhusDenmark
- Department of Pulmonary MedicineAarhus University HospitalAarhusDenmark
| | - Ana Gvozdenovic
- Department of OrthopedicsBalgrist University HospitalZurichSwitzerland
| | - Giovanni Pellegrini
- Laboratory for Animal Model PathologyInstitute of Veterinary Pathology, University of ZurichZurichSwitzerland
| | - Olga Neklyudova
- Department of OrthopedicsBalgrist University HospitalZurichSwitzerland
| | - Walter Born
- Department of OrthopedicsBalgrist University HospitalZurichSwitzerland
| | - Bruno Fuchs
- Department of OrthopedicsBalgrist University HospitalZurichSwitzerland
| | - Marco Eijken
- Department of Renal MedicineAarhus University HospitalAarhusDenmark
- Department of Clinical ImmunologyAarhus University HospitalAarhusDenmark
| | - Sander M. Botter
- Department of OrthopedicsBalgrist University HospitalZurichSwitzerland
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Activin Receptor-Ligand Trap for the Treatment of β-thalassemia: A Serendipitous Discovery. Mediterr J Hematol Infect Dis 2020; 12:e2020075. [PMID: 33194149 PMCID: PMC7643807 DOI: 10.4084/mjhid.2020.075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2020] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
β-thalassemia is a hereditary disorder caused by defective production of β-globin chains of hemoglobin (Hb) that leads to an increased α/β globins ratio with subsequent free α-globins. Alpha globin excess causes oxidative stress, red blood cells membrane damage, premature death of late-stage erythroid precursors, resulting in ineffective erythropoiesis. The transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) superfamily signaling acts on biological processes, such as cell quiescence, apoptosis, proliferation, differentiation, and migration, and plays an essential role in regulating the hematopoiesis. This pathway can lose its physiologic regulation in pathologic conditions, leading to anemia and ineffective erythropoiesis. Activin receptor-ligand trap molecules such as Sotatercept and Luspatercept downregulate the TGF-β pathway, thus inhibiting the Smad2/3 cascade and alleviating anemia in patients with β-thalassemia and myelodysplastic syndromes. In this review, we describe in extenso the TGF-β pathway, as well as the molecular and biological basis of activin receptors ligand traps, focusing on their role in various β-thalassemia experimental models. The most recent results from clinical trials on sotatercept and luspatercept will also be reviewed.
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Zhuang Z, John JV, Liao H, Luo J, Rubery P, Mesfin A, Boda SK, Xie J, Zhang X. Periosteum Mimetic Coating on Structural Bone Allografts via Electrospray Deposition Enhances Repair and Reconstruction of Segmental Defects. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2020; 6:6241-6252. [PMID: 33449646 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.0c00421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Structural bone allograft transplantation remains one of the common strategies for repair and reconstruction of large bone defects. Due to the loss of periosteum that covers the outer surface of the cortical bone, the healing and incorporation of allografts is extremely slow and limited. To enhance the biological performance of allografts, herein, we report a novel and simple approach for engineering a periosteum mimetic coating on the surface of structural bone allografts via polymer-mediated electrospray deposition. This approach enables the coating on allografts with precisely controlled composition and thickness. In addition, the periosteum mimetic coating can be tailored to achieve desired drug release profiles by making use of an appropriate biodegradable polymer or polymer blend. The efficacy study in a murine segmental femoral bone defect model demonstrates that the allograft coating composed of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) and bone morphogenetic protein-2 mimicking peptide significantly improves allograft healing as evidenced by decreased fibrotic tissue formation, increased periosteal bone formation, and enhanced osseointegration. Taken together, this study provides a platform technology for engineering a periosteum mimetic coating which can greatly promote bone allograft healing. This technology could eventually result in an off-the-shelf and multifunctional structural bone allograft for highly effective repair and reconstruction of large segmental bone defects. The technology can also be used to ameliorate the performance of other medical implants by modifying their surfaces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhou Zhuang
- Center for Musculoskeletal Research, School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York 14621, United States
| | - Johnson V John
- Department of Surgery-Transplant and Mary & Dick Holland Regenerative Medicine Program, University of Nebraska, Omaha, Nebraska 68198, United States
| | - Haofu Liao
- Department of Computer Science, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York 14627, United States
| | - Jiebo Luo
- Department of Computer Science, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York 14627, United States
| | - Paul Rubery
- Center for Musculoskeletal Research, School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York 14642, United States
| | - Addisu Mesfin
- Center for Musculoskeletal Research, School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York 14642, United States
| | - Sunil Kumar Boda
- Department of Surgery-Transplant and Mary & Dick Holland Regenerative Medicine Program, University of Nebraska, Omaha, Nebraska 68198, United States
| | - Jingwei Xie
- Department of Surgery-Transplant and Mary & Dick Holland Regenerative Medicine Program, University of Nebraska, Omaha, Nebraska 68198, United States
| | - Xinping Zhang
- Center for Musculoskeletal Research, School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York 14642, United States
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Suh J, Lee YS. Myostatin Inhibitors: Panacea or Predicament for Musculoskeletal Disorders? J Bone Metab 2020; 27:151-165. [PMID: 32911580 PMCID: PMC7571243 DOI: 10.11005/jbm.2020.27.3.151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Myostatin, also known as growth differentiation factor 8 (GDF8), is a transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) family member that functions to limit skeletal muscle growth. Accordingly, loss-of-function mutations in myostatin result in a dramatic increase in muscle mass in humans and various animals, while its overexpression leads to severe muscle atrophy. Myostatin also exerts a significant effect on bone metabolism, as demonstrated by enhanced bone mineral density and bone regeneration in myostatin null mice. The identification of myostatin as a negative regulator of muscle and bone mass has sparked an enormous interest in developing myostatin inhibitors as therapeutic agents for treating a variety of clinical conditions associated with musculoskeletal disorders. As a result, various myostatin-targeting strategies involving antibodies, myostatin propeptides, soluble receptors, and endogenous antagonists have been generated, and many of them have progressed to clinical trials. Importantly, most myostatin inhibitors also repress the activities of other closely related TGF-β family members including GDF11, activins, and bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), increasing the potential for unwanted side effects, such as vascular side effects through inhibition of BMP 9/10 and bone weakness induced by follistatin through antagonizing several TGF-β family members. Therefore, a careful distinction between targets that may enhance the efficacy of an agent and those that may cause adverse effects is required with the improvement of the target specificity. In this review, we discuss the current understanding of the endogenous function of myostatin, and provide an overview of clinical trial outcomes from different myostatin inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joonho Suh
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Dental Pharmacology, School of Dentistry and Dental Research Institute, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yun-Sil Lee
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Dental Pharmacology, School of Dentistry and Dental Research Institute, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
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30
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Feld J, Navada SC, Silverman LR. Myelo-deception: Luspatercept & TGF-Beta ligand traps in myeloid diseases & anemia. Leuk Res 2020; 97:106430. [PMID: 32763582 DOI: 10.1016/j.leukres.2020.106430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2020] [Revised: 07/27/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) encompass a clinically heterogenous group of diseases defined by a clonal bone marrow failure state. Patients with lower-risk MDS primarily suffer from the consequences of anemia, with a subset having increased risks of bleeding and infection. There are few good therapeutic options for this patient population, as patients are dependent on cytokine support to improve hematopoiesis. Our review will discuss luspatercept, a transforming growth factor (TGF)-Beta ligand trap, the first new Food & Drug Administration (FDA)-approved treatment in MDS in over a decade. We will explore the different TGF-Beta ligand traps that have been developed for a number of diseases, with a focus on myeloid malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Feld
- Tisch Cancer Institute, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, One Gustave L. Levy Place, Box 1079, New York, NY, 10029, United States.
| | - Shyamala C Navada
- Tisch Cancer Institute, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, One Gustave L. Levy Place, Box 1079, New York, NY, 10029, United States.
| | - Lewis R Silverman
- Tisch Cancer Institute, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, One Gustave L. Levy Place, Box 1079, New York, NY, 10029, United States.
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Cangkrama M, Wietecha M, Mathis N, Okumura R, Ferrarese L, Al‐Nuaimi D, Antsiferova M, Dummer R, Innocenti M, Werner S. A paracrine activin A-mDia2 axis promotes squamous carcinogenesis via fibroblast reprogramming. EMBO Mol Med 2020; 12:e11466. [PMID: 32150356 PMCID: PMC7136968 DOI: 10.15252/emmm.201911466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2019] [Revised: 02/06/2020] [Accepted: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are key regulators of tumorigenesis and promising targets for next-generation therapies. We discovered that cancer cell-derived activin A reprograms fibroblasts into pro-tumorigenic CAFs. Mechanistically, this occurs via Smad2-mediated transcriptional regulation of the formin mDia2, which directly promotes filopodia formation and cell migration. mDia2 also induces expression of CAF marker genes through prevention of p53 nuclear accumulation, resulting in the production of a pro-tumorigenic matrisome and secretome. The translational relevance of this finding is reflected by activin A overexpression in tumor cells and of mDia2 in the stroma of skin cancer and other malignancies and the correlation of high activin A/mDia2 levels with poor patient survival. Blockade of this signaling axis using inhibitors of activin, activin receptors, or mDia2 suppressed cancer cell malignancy and squamous carcinogenesis in 3D organotypic cultures, ex vivo, and in vivo, providing a rationale for pharmacological inhibition of activin A-mDia2 signaling in stratified cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Cangkrama
- Department of BiologyInstitute of Molecular Health SciencesETH ZurichZurichSwitzerland
| | - Mateusz Wietecha
- Department of BiologyInstitute of Molecular Health SciencesETH ZurichZurichSwitzerland
| | - Nicolas Mathis
- Department of BiologyInstitute of Molecular Health SciencesETH ZurichZurichSwitzerland
| | - Rin Okumura
- Department of BiologyInstitute of Molecular Health SciencesETH ZurichZurichSwitzerland
| | - Luca Ferrarese
- Department of BiologyInstitute of Molecular Health SciencesETH ZurichZurichSwitzerland
| | - Dunja Al‐Nuaimi
- Department of BiologyInstitute of Molecular Health SciencesETH ZurichZurichSwitzerland
| | - Maria Antsiferova
- Department of BiologyInstitute of Molecular Health SciencesETH ZurichZurichSwitzerland
- Present address:
Roche Glycart AGSchlierenSwitzerland
| | - Reinhard Dummer
- Department of DermatologyUniversity Hospital ZurichZurichSwitzerland
| | - Metello Innocenti
- Heidelberg University Biochemistry Center (BZH)Heidelberg UniversityHeidelbergGermany
| | - Sabine Werner
- Department of BiologyInstitute of Molecular Health SciencesETH ZurichZurichSwitzerland
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Schoenmaker T, Botman E, Sariyildiz M, Micha D, Netelenbos C, Bravenboer N, Kelder A, Eekhoff EMW, De Vries TJ. Activin-A Induces Fewer, but Larger Osteoclasts From Monocytes in Both Healthy Controls and Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva Patients. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2020; 11:501. [PMID: 32760351 PMCID: PMC7371852 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2020.00501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2019] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva (FOP) is a rare genetic disease characterized by heterotopic ossification (HO) that occurs in muscle tissue, tendons, and ligaments. The disease is caused by mutations in the Activin receptor type I (ACVR1) gene resulting in enhanced responsiveness to Activin-A. Binding of this molecule to the mutated receptor induces HO. Bone metabolism normally requires the coupled action of osteoblasts and osteoclasts, which seems to be disturbed during HO. We hypothesize that Activin-A may also counteract the formation of osteoclasts in FOP patients. In this study we investigated the effect of Activin-A on osteoclast differentiation of CD14+ monocytes from FOP patients and healthy controls. The lymphocytic and monocytic cell populations were determined by FACS analysis. Expression of the mutated R206H receptor was assessed and confirmed by allele specific PCR. The effect of Activin-A on osteoclastogenesis was assessed by counting the number and size of multinucleated cells. Osteoclast activity was determined by culturing the cells on Osteo Assay plates. The influence of Activin-A on expression of various osteoclast related genes was studied with QPCR. Blood from FOP patients contained similar percentages of classical, intermediate, or non-classical monocytes as healthy controls. Addition of Activin-A to the osteoclastogenesis cultures resulted in fewer osteoclasts in both control and FOP cultures. The osteoclasts formed in the presence of Activin-A were, however, much larger and more active compared to the cultures without Activin-A. This effect was tempered when the Activin-A inhibitor follistatin was added to the Activin-A containing cultures. Expression of osteoclast specific genes Cathepsin K and TRAcP was upregulated, gene expression of osteoclastogenesis related genes M-CSF and DC-STAMP was downregulated by Activin-A. Since Activin-A is a promising target for inhibiting the formation of HO in FOP, it is important to know its effects on both osteoblasts and osteoclasts. Our study shows that Activin-A induces fewer, but larger and more active osteoclasts independent of the presence of the mutated ACVR1 receptor. When considering FOP as an Activin-A driven disease that acts locally, our findings suggest that Activin-A could cause a more pronounced local resorption by larger osteoclasts. Thus, when targeting Activin-A in patients with neutralizing antibodies, HO formation could potentially be inhibited, and osteoclastic activity could be slightly reduced, but then performed dispersedly by more and smaller osteoclasts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ton Schoenmaker
- Department of Periodontology, Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA), University of Amsterdam and Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- *Correspondence: Ton Schoenmaker
| | - Esmée Botman
- Department of Internal Medicine Section Endocrinology, Amsterdam Movement Sciences, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Merve Sariyildiz
- Department of Periodontology, Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA), University of Amsterdam and Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Dimitra Micha
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Amsterdam Movement Sciences, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Coen Netelenbos
- Department of Internal Medicine Section Endocrinology, Amsterdam Movement Sciences, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Nathalie Bravenboer
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Angele Kelder
- Department of Hematology, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - E. Marelise W. Eekhoff
- Department of Internal Medicine Section Endocrinology, Amsterdam Movement Sciences, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Teun J. De Vries
- Department of Periodontology, Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA), University of Amsterdam and Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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Coyne DW, Singh HN, Smith WT, Giuseppi AC, Connarn JN, Sherman ML, Dellanna F, Malluche HH, Hruska KA. Sotatercept Safety and Effects on Hemoglobin, Bone, and Vascular Calcification. Kidney Int Rep 2019; 4:1585-1597. [PMID: 31891000 PMCID: PMC6933454 DOI: 10.1016/j.ekir.2019.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2019] [Revised: 07/29/2019] [Accepted: 08/03/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Patients with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) exhibit anemia, chronic kidney disease‒mineral bone disorder (CKD-MBD), and cardiovascular disease. The REN-001 and REN-002 phase II, multicenter, randomized studies examined safety, tolerability, and effects of sotatercept, an ActRIIA-IgG1 fusion protein trap, on hemoglobin concentration; REN-001 also explored effects on bone mineral density (BMD) and abdominal aortic vascular calcification. METHODS Forty-three patients were treated in REN-001 (dose range: sotatercept 0.3‒0.7 mg/kg or placebo subcutaneously [s.c.] for 200 days) and 50 in REN-002 (dose range: 0.1‒0.4 mg/kg i.v. and 0.13‒0.5 mg/kg s.c. for 99 days). RESULTS In REN-001, frequency of achieving target hemoglobin response (>10 g/dl [6.21 mmol/l]) with sotatercept was dose-related and greater than placebo (0.3 mg/kg: 33.3%; 0.5 mg/kg: 62.5%; 0.7 mg/kg: 77.8%; 0.7 mg/kg [doses 1 and 2]/0.4 mg/kg [doses 3‒15]: 33.3%; placebo: 27.3%). REN-002 hemoglobin findings were similar (i.v.: 16.7%-57.1%; s.c.: 11.1%‒42.9%). Dose-related achievement of ≥2% increase in femoral neck cortical BMD was seen among only REN-001 patients receiving sotatercept (0.3‒0.7 mg/kg: 20.0%‒57.1%; placebo: 0.0%). Abdominal aortic vascular calcification was slowed in a dose-related manner, with a ≤15% increase in Agatston score achieved by more REN-001 sotatercept versus placebo patients (60%‒100% vs. 16.7%). The most common adverse events during treatment were hypertension, muscle spasm, headache, arteriovenous fistula site complication, and influenza observed in both treatment and placebo groups. CONCLUSION In patients with ESKD, sotatercept exhibited a favorable safety profile and was associated with trends in dose-related slowing of vascular calcification. Less-consistent trends in improved hemoglobin concentration and BMD were observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel W. Coyne
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Hartmut H. Malluche
- Division of Nephrology, Bone and Mineral Metabolism, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Keith A. Hruska
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
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Baroncelli M, Drabek K, Eijken M, van der Eerden BCJ, van de Peppel J, van Leeuwen JPTM. Two-day-treatment of Activin-A leads to transient change in SV-HFO osteoblast gene expression and reduction in matrix mineralization. J Cell Physiol 2019; 235:4865-4877. [PMID: 31667867 PMCID: PMC7028110 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.29365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2019] [Accepted: 10/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Activins regulate bone formation by controlling osteoclasts and osteoblasts. We investigated Activin‐A mechanism of action on human osteoblast mineralization, RNA and microRNA (miRNA) expression profile. A single 2‐day treatment of Activin‐A at Day 5 of osteoblast differentiation significantly reduced matrix mineralization. Activin A‐treated osteoblasts responded with transient change in gene expression, in a 2‐wave‐fashion. The 38 genes differentially regulated during the first wave (within 8 hr after Activin A start) were involved in transcription regulation. In the second wave (1–2 days after Activin A start), 65 genes were differentially regulated and related to extracellular matrix. Differentially expressed genes in both waves were associated to transforming growth factor beta signaling. We identified which microRNAs modulating osteoblast differentiation were regulated by Activin‐A. In summary, 2‐day treatment with Activin‐A in premineralization period of osteoblast cultures influenced miRNAs, gene transcription, and reduced matrix mineralization. Modulation of Activin A signaling might be useful to control bone quality for therapeutic purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Baroncelli
- Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ksenija Drabek
- Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marco Eijken
- Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Bram C J van der Eerden
- Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jeroen van de Peppel
- Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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Geng Q, Heng K, Li J, Wang S, Sun H, Sha L, Guo Y, Nie X, Wang Q, Dai L, Zhu X, Kang J, Shao L, Zhai J, Miao S, Lin Q, Guo K, Wang J. A soluble bone morphogenetic protein type 1A receptor fusion protein treatment prevents glucocorticoid-Induced bone loss in mice. Am J Transl Res 2019; 11:4232-4247. [PMID: 31396331 PMCID: PMC6684880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2019] [Accepted: 06/26/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis (GIOP) is a frequent complication of systemic glucocorticoid (GC) therapy, is the most common form of secondary osteoporosis, and is associated with skeletal fragility and increased fracture risk. A soluble form of BMP receptor type 1A fusion protein (mBMPR1A-mFc) acts as an antagonist to endogenous BMPR1A and could increase bone mass in both ovariectomized and ovary-intact mice, but its effects in GIOP mice remained unclear. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of mBMPR1A-mFc on the skeleton in experimental models of GIOP. mBMPR1A-mFc treatment could increase the bone mineral density (BMD), trabecular bone volume, thickness, and number, and cortical thickness, and reduce the structure model index and trabecular separation in GIOP mice. mBMPR1A-mFc treatment could also prevent bone loss and enhance biomechanical strength in GIOP mice by promoting osteoblastic bone formation and inhibiting osteoclastic bone resorption. Mechanistic studies revealed that mBMPR1A-mFc treatment increased murine osteoblastogenesis by activating the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway while decreasing osteoclastogenesis by inhibiting the RANK/RANKL/osteoprotegerin (OPG) signaling pathway. These findings demonstrate that mBMPR1A-mFc treatment in GIOP mice improves bone mass, microarchitecture, and strength by enhancing osteoblastic bone formation and inhibiting osteoclastic bone resorption in GIOP mice and offers a promising novel alternative for the treatment of GIOP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinghe Geng
- Lab of Bone and Mineral Research, The Affiliated Pizhou Hospital of Xuzhou Medical UniversityXuzhou 221300, China
| | - Ke Heng
- Department of Orthopedics, The Affiliated Changzhou No. 2 People’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical UniversityChangzhou 213003, China
| | - Jie Li
- Department of Orthopedics, Xuzhou Central Hospital, Southeast UniversityXuzhou 221006, China
| | - Shen Wang
- Department of Acupuncture, Guangxi Medical UniversityNanning 530000, China
| | - Huabei Sun
- Lab of Bone and Mineral Research, The Affiliated Pizhou Hospital of Xuzhou Medical UniversityXuzhou 221300, China
| | - Liangwei Sha
- Lab of Bone and Mineral Research, The Affiliated Pizhou Hospital of Xuzhou Medical UniversityXuzhou 221300, China
| | - Yilong Guo
- Lab of Bone and Mineral Research, The Affiliated Pizhou Hospital of Xuzhou Medical UniversityXuzhou 221300, China
| | - Xinfa Nie
- Lab of Bone and Mineral Research, The Affiliated Pizhou Hospital of Xuzhou Medical UniversityXuzhou 221300, China
| | - Qingjun Wang
- Lab of Bone and Mineral Research, The Affiliated Pizhou Hospital of Xuzhou Medical UniversityXuzhou 221300, China
| | - Lei Dai
- Lab of Bone and Mineral Research, The Affiliated Pizhou Hospital of Xuzhou Medical UniversityXuzhou 221300, China
| | - Xianzhong Zhu
- Lab of Bone and Mineral Research, The Affiliated Pizhou Hospital of Xuzhou Medical UniversityXuzhou 221300, China
| | - Jiujie Kang
- Lab of Bone and Mineral Research, The Affiliated Pizhou Hospital of Xuzhou Medical UniversityXuzhou 221300, China
| | - Liwu Shao
- Lab of Bone and Mineral Research, The Affiliated Pizhou Hospital of Xuzhou Medical UniversityXuzhou 221300, China
| | - Juan Zhai
- Lab of Bone and Mineral Research, The Affiliated Pizhou Hospital of Xuzhou Medical UniversityXuzhou 221300, China
| | - Sheng Miao
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Hospital of Suqian, Jiangsu Province Hospital, Nanjing Medical UniversitySuqian 223899, China
| | - Qiang Lin
- Department of Orthopedics, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical UniversityXuzhou 221004, China
| | - Kaijin Guo
- Department of Orthopedics, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical UniversityXuzhou 221004, China
| | - Jin Wang
- Lab of Bone and Mineral Research, The Affiliated Pizhou Hospital of Xuzhou Medical UniversityXuzhou 221300, China
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Development of two complementary LC–HRMS methods for analyzing sotatercept in dried blood spots for doping controls. Bioanalysis 2019; 11:923-940. [DOI: 10.4155/bio-2018-0313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: sotatercept is a therapeutic Fc-fusion protein with erythropoiesis-stimulating activity. Due to a potential abuse of the drug by athletes in professional sports, a sensitive detection method is required. In sports drug testing, alternative matrices such as dried blood spots (DBS) are gaining increasing attention as they can provide several advantages over conventional matrices. Materials & methods: Herein, two complementary LC–high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) detection methods for sotatercept from DBS, an initial testing procedure (ITP) and a confirmation procedure (CP) were developed and validated for the first time. Both methods comprise an ultrasonication-assisted extraction, affinity enrichment, proteolytic digestion and HRMS detection. Results & conclusion: For the multianalyte ITP, artificial samples fortified with sotatercept, luspatercept and bimagrumab, and authentic specimens containing bimagrumab were successfully analyzed as proof-of-concept. The validated detection methods for sotatercept are fit for purpose and the ITP was shown to be suitable for the detection of novel IgG-based pharmaceuticals in doping control DBS samples.
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Seachrist DD, Keri RA. The Activin Social Network: Activin, Inhibin, and Follistatin in Breast Development and Cancer. Endocrinology 2019; 160:1097-1110. [PMID: 30874767 PMCID: PMC6475112 DOI: 10.1210/en.2019-00015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2019] [Accepted: 03/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Activins and inhibins are closely related protein heterodimers with a similar tissue distribution; however, these two complexes have opposing functions in development and disease. Both are secreted cytokine hormones, with activin the primary inducer of downstream signaling cascades and inhibin acting as a rheostat that exquisitely governs activin function. Adding to the complexity of activin signaling, follistatin, a highly glycosylated monomeric protein, binds activin with high affinity and restrains downstream pathway activation but through a mechanism distinct from that of inhibin. These three proteins were first identified as key ovarian hormones in the pituitary-gonadal axis that direct the synthesis and secretion of FSH from the pituitary, hence controlling folliculogenesis. Research during the past 30 years has expanded the roles of these proteins, first by discovering the ubiquitous expression of the trio and then by implicating them in a wide array of biological functions. In concert, these three hormones govern tissue development, homeostasis, and disease in multiple organ systems through diverse autocrine and paracrine mechanisms. In the present study, we have reviewed the actions of activin and its biological inhibitors, inhibin, and follistatin, in mammary gland morphogenesis and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darcie D Seachrist
- Department of Pharmacology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Ruth A Keri
- Department of Pharmacology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio
- Division of General Medical Sciences–Oncology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio
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38
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Fahmy-Garcia S, Farrell E, Witte-Bouma J, Robbesom-van den Berge I, Suarez M, Mumcuoglu D, Walles H, Kluijtmans SGJM, van der Eerden BCJ, van Osch GJVM, van Leeuwen JPTM, van Driel M. Follistatin Effects in Migration, Vascularization, and Osteogenesis in vitro and Bone Repair in vivo. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2019; 7:38. [PMID: 30881954 PMCID: PMC6405513 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2019.00038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2018] [Accepted: 02/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of biomaterials and signaling molecules to induce bone formation is a promising approach in the field of bone tissue engineering. Follistatin (FST) is a glycoprotein able to bind irreversibly to activin A, a protein that has been reported to inhibit bone formation. We investigated the effect of FST in critical processes for bone repair, such as cell recruitment, osteogenesis and vascularization, and ultimately its use for bone tissue engineering. In vitro, FST promoted mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) and endothelial cell (EC) migration as well as essential steps in the formation and expansion of the vasculature such as EC tube-formation and sprouting. FST did not enhance osteogenic differentiation of MSCs, but increased committed osteoblast mineralization. In vivo, FST was loaded in an in situ gelling formulation made by alginate and recombinant collagen-based peptide microspheres and implanted in a rat calvarial defect model. Two FST variants (FST288 and FST315) with major differences in their affinity to cell-surface proteoglycans, which may influence their effect upon in vivo bone repair, were tested. In vitro, most of the loaded FST315 was released over 4 weeks, contrary to FST288, which was mostly retained in the biomaterial. However, none of the FST variants improved in vivo bone healing compared to control. These results demonstrate that FST enhances crucial processes needed for bone repair. Further studies need to investigate the optimal FST carrier for bone regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shorouk Fahmy-Garcia
- Department of Orthopedics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands.,Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Eric Farrell
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Janneke Witte-Bouma
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | | | - Melva Suarez
- Institute of Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Julius-Maximillians University Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Didem Mumcuoglu
- Department of Orthopedics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands.,Fujifilm Manufacturing Europe B.V., Tilburg, Netherlands
| | - Heike Walles
- Institute of Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Julius-Maximillians University Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | | | - Bram C J van der Eerden
- Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Gerjo J V M van Osch
- Department of Orthopedics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands.,Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | | | - Marjolein van Driel
- Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
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39
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Lodberg A, van der Eerden BCJ, Boers-Sijmons B, Thomsen JS, Brüel A, van Leeuwen JPTM, Eijken M. A follistatin-based molecule increases muscle and bone mass without affecting the red blood cell count in mice. FASEB J 2019; 33:6001-6010. [PMID: 30759349 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201801969rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Inhibitors of the activin receptor signaling pathway (IASPs) have become candidate therapeutics for sarcopenia and bone remodeling disorders because of their ability to increase muscle and bone mass. However, IASPs utilizing activin type IIA and IIB receptors are also potent stimulators of erythropoiesis, a feature that may restrict their usage to anemic patients because of increased risk of venous thromboembolism. Based on the endogenous TGF-β superfamily antagonist follistatin (FST), a molecule in the IASP class, FSTΔHBS-mFc, was generated and tested in both ovariectomized and naive BALB/c and C57BL/6 mice. In ovariectomized mice, FSTΔHBS-mFc therapy dose-dependently increased cancellous bone mass up to 42% and improved bone microstructural indices. For the highest dosage of FSTΔHBS-mFc (30 mg/kg, 2 times/wk), the increase in cancellous bone mass was similar to that observed with parathyroid hormone therapy (1-34, 80 µg/kg, 5 times/wk). Musculus quadriceps femoris mass dose-dependently increased up to 21% in ovariectomized mice. In both ovariectomized and naive mice, FSTΔHBS-mFc therapy did not influence red blood cell count or hematocrit or hemoglobin levels. If the results are reproduced, a human FSTΔHBS-mFc version could be applicable in patients with musculoskeletal conditions irrespective of hematocrit status.-Lodberg, A., van der Eerden, B. C. J., Boers-Sijmons, B., Thomsen, J. S., Brüel, A., van Leeuwen, J. P. T. M., Eijken, M. A follistatin-based molecule increases muscle and bone mass without affecting the red blood cell count in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Lodberg
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | - Bianca Boers-Sijmons
- Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Annemarie Brüel
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | - Marco Eijken
- Department of Renal Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Immunology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
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40
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Rivella S. Iron metabolism under conditions of ineffective erythropoiesis in β-thalassemia. Blood 2019; 133:51-58. [PMID: 30401707 PMCID: PMC6318430 DOI: 10.1182/blood-2018-07-815928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2018] [Accepted: 08/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
β-Thalassemia (BT) is an inherited genetic disorder that is characterized by ineffective erythropoiesis (IE), leading to anemia and abnormal iron metabolism. IE is an abnormal expansion of the number of erythroid progenitor cells with unproductive synthesis of enucleated erythrocytes, leading to anemia and hypoxia. Anemic patients affected by BT suffer from iron overload, even in the absence of chronic blood transfusion, suggesting the presence of ≥1 erythroid factor with the ability to modulate iron metabolism and dietary iron absorption. Recent studies suggest that decreased erythroid cell differentiation and survival also contribute to IE, aggravating the anemia in BT. Furthermore, hypoxia can also affect and increase iron absorption. Understanding the relationship between iron metabolism and IE could provide important insights into the BT condition and help to develop novel treatments. In fact, genetic or pharmacological manipulations of iron metabolism or erythroid cell differentiation and survival have been shown to improve IE, iron overload, and anemia in animal models of BT. Based on those findings, new therapeutic approaches and drugs have been proposed; clinical trials are underway that have the potential to improve erythrocyte production, as well as to reduce the iron overload and organ toxicity in BT and in other disorders characterized by IE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Rivella
- Division of Hematology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA; and Cell and Molecular Biology Graduate Group, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
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41
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Abstract
Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) constitute the largest subdivision of the transforming growth factor-β family of ligands. BMPs exhibit widespread utility and pleiotropic, context-dependent effects, and the strength and duration of BMP pathway signaling is tightly regulated at numerous levels via mechanisms operating both inside and outside the cell. Defects in the BMP pathway or its regulation underlie multiple human diseases of different organ systems. Yet much remains to be discovered about the BMP pathway in its original context, i.e., the skeleton. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of the intricacies of the BMP pathway and its inhibitors in bone development, homeostasis, and disease. We frame the content of the review around major unanswered questions for which incomplete evidence is available. First, we consider the gene regulatory network downstream of BMP signaling in osteoblastogenesis. Next, we examine why some BMP ligands are more osteogenic than others and what factors limit BMP signaling during osteoblastogenesis. Then we consider whether specific BMP pathway components are required for normal skeletal development, and if the pathway exerts endogenous effects in the aging skeleton. Finally, we propose two major areas of need of future study by the field: greater resolution of the gene regulatory network downstream of BMP signaling in the skeleton, and an expanded repertoire of reagents to reliably and specifically inhibit individual BMP pathway components.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan W Lowery
- Division of Biomedical Science, Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine , Indianapolis, Indiana ; and Department of Developmental Biology, Harvard School of Dental Medicine , Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Vicki Rosen
- Division of Biomedical Science, Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine , Indianapolis, Indiana ; and Department of Developmental Biology, Harvard School of Dental Medicine , Boston, Massachusetts
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42
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Luspatercept for the treatment of anemia in myelodysplastic syndromes and primary myelofibrosis. Blood 2019; 133:790-794. [PMID: 30602619 DOI: 10.1182/blood-2018-11-876888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2018] [Accepted: 12/17/2018] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Anemia of lower-risk myelodysplastic syndromes (MDSs) and primary myelofibrosis (PMF) generally becomes resistant to available treatments, leading to red blood cell (RBC) transfusions, iron overload, shortened survival, and poor quality of life. The transforming growth factor-β superfamily, including activins and growth differentiation factors (GDFs), is aberrantly expressed in lower-risk MDSs and PMF. Luspatercept (and sotatercept), ligand traps that particularly inhibit GDF11, lead to RBC transfusion independence in 10% to 50% of lower-risk MDSs resistant to available treatments, and have started to be used in PMF.
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43
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Almehmadi A, Ohyama Y, Kaku M, Alamoudi A, Husein D, Katafuchi M, Mishina Y, Mochida Y. VWC2 Increases Bone Formation Through Inhibiting Activin Signaling. Calcif Tissue Int 2018; 103:663-674. [PMID: 30074079 PMCID: PMC6549224 DOI: 10.1007/s00223-018-0462-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2018] [Accepted: 07/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
By a bioinformatics approach, we have identified a novel cysteine knot protein member, VWC2 (von Willebrand factor C domain containing 2) previously known as Brorin. Since Brorin has been proposed to function as a bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) antagonist, we investigated the binding of Brorin/VWC2 to several BMPs; however, none of the BMPs tested were bound to VWC2. Instead, the βA subunit of activin was found as a binding partner among transforming growth factor (TGF)-β superfamily members. Here, we show that Vwc2 gene expression is temporally upregulated early in osteoblast differentiation, VWC2 protein is present in bone matrix, and localized at osteoblasts/osteocytes. Activin A-induced Smad2 phosphorylation was inhibited in the presence of exogenous VWC2 in MC3T3-E1 osteoblast cell line and primary osteoblasts. The effect of VWC2 on ex vivo cranial bone organ cultures treated with activin A was investigated, and bone morphometric parameters decreased by activin A were restored with VWC2. When we further investigated the biological mechanism how VWC2 inhibited the effects of activin A on bone formation, we found that the effects of activin A on osteoblast cell growth, differentiation, and mineralization were reversed by VWC2. Taken together, a novel secretory protein, VWC2 promotes bone formation by inhibiting Activin-Smad2 signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad Almehmadi
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Boston University, Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Periodontology and Oral Biology, Faculty of Dentistry, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Yoshio Ohyama
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Boston University, Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
- Departoment of Maxillofacial Surgery, Tokyo Medical and Dental University Graduate School, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masaru Kaku
- Division of Bio-Prosthodontics, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata, Japan
| | - Ahmed Alamoudi
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Boston University, Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Oral Biology, Faculty of Dentistry, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Dina Husein
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Boston University, Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Michitsuna Katafuchi
- Department of Oral Rehabilitation, Section of Fixed Prosthodontics, Fukuoka Dental College, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Yuji Mishina
- Department of Biologic and Materials Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Yoshiyuki Mochida
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Boston University, Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine, Boston, MA, USA.
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44
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Schoenmaker T, Wouters F, Micha D, Forouzanfar T, Netelenbos C, Eekhoff EMW, Bravenboer N, de Vries TJ. The effect of Activin-A on periodontal ligament fibroblasts-mediated osteoclast formation in healthy donors and in patients with fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva. J Cell Physiol 2018; 234:10238-10247. [PMID: 30417373 PMCID: PMC6587553 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.27693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2018] [Accepted: 10/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP) is a genetic disease characterized by heterotopic ossification (HO). The disease is caused by a mutation in the activin receptor type 1 (ACVR1) gene that enhances this receptor's responsiveness to Activin‐A. Binding of Activin‐A to the mutated ACVR1 receptor induces osteogenic differentiation. Whether Activin‐A also affects osteoclast formation in FOP is not known. Therefore we investigated its effect on the osteoclastogenesis‐inducing potential of periodontal ligament fibroblasts (PLF) from teeth of healthy controls and patients with FOP. We used western blot analysis of phosphorylated SMAD3 (pSMAD3) and quantitative polymerase chain reaction to assess the effect of Activin‐A on the PLF. PLF‐induced osteoclast formation and gene expression were studied by coculturing control and FOP PLF with CD14‐positive osteoclast precursor cells from healthy donors. Osteoclast formation was also assessed in control CD14 cultures stimulated by macrophage colony‐stimulating factor (M‐CSF) and receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa‐B ligand (RANK‐L). Although Activin‐A increased activation of the pSMAD3 pathway in both control and FOP PLF, it increased ACVR1, FK binding protein 12 (FKBP12), an inhibitor of DNA binding 1 protein (ID‐1) expression only in FOP PLF. Activin‐A inhibited PLF mediated osteoclast formation albeit only significantly when induced by FOP PLF. In these cocultures, it reduced M‐CSF and dendritic cell‐specific transmembrane protein (DC‐STAMP) expression. Activin‐A also inhibited osteoclast formation in M‐CSF and RANK‐L mediated monocultures of CD14+ cells by inhibiting their proliferation. This study brings new insight on the role of Activin A in osteoclast formation, which may further add to understanding FOP pathophysiology; in addition to the known Activin‐A‐mediated HO, this study shows that Activin‐A may also inhibit osteoclast formation, thereby further promoting HO formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ton Schoenmaker
- Department of Periodontology, Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA), University of Amsterdam and Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Fenne Wouters
- Department of Periodontology, Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA), University of Amsterdam and Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Dimitra Micha
- Department of Clinical Genetics, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam Movement Sciences, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Tim Forouzanfar
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and Oral Pathology, VU University Medical Center, Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA), University of Amsterdam and Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Coen Netelenbos
- Internal Medicine, Endocrinology Section, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - E Marelise W Eekhoff
- Internal Medicine, Endocrinology Section, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Nathalie Bravenboer
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Teun J de Vries
- Department of Periodontology, Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA), University of Amsterdam and Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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45
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Walpurgis K, Thomas A, Lange T, Reichel C, Geyer H, Thevis M. Combined detection of the ActRII-Fc fusion proteins Sotatercept (ActRIIA-Fc) and Luspatercept (modified ActRIIB-Fc) in serum by means of immunoaffinity purification, tryptic digestion, and LC-MS/MS. Drug Test Anal 2018; 10:1714-1721. [PMID: 30285318 DOI: 10.1002/dta.2513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2018] [Accepted: 09/23/2018] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Therapeutic proteins are a continuously growing class of pharmaceuticals and comprise several drug candidates with potential performance-enhancing properties. In particular, activin receptor competitors, such as the ActRII-Fc fusion proteins Sotatercept (ActRIIA-Fc) and Luspatercept (modified ActRIIB-Fc), have the potential for being misused as doping agents in sports as they were found to inhibit negative regulators of late-stage erythropoiesis. Within this study, ammonium sulfate precipitation, immunoaffinity purification, tryptic digestion, and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) were employed to develop an assay for the combined detection of Sotatercept and Luspatercept in doping control serum samples. The assay was optimized, comprehensively characterized, and found to be fit-for-purpose for application to sports drug testing. It complements existing tests for ActRII-Fc fusion proteins and expands the range of available detection methods for novel protein therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katja Walpurgis
- Center for Preventive Doping Research/Institute of Biochemistry, German Sport University Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Andreas Thomas
- Center for Preventive Doping Research/Institute of Biochemistry, German Sport University Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Tobias Lange
- Center for Preventive Doping Research/Institute of Biochemistry, German Sport University Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Christian Reichel
- Doping Control Laboratory, AIT Seibersdorf Laboratories, Seibersdorf, Austria
| | - Hans Geyer
- Center for Preventive Doping Research/Institute of Biochemistry, German Sport University Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Mario Thevis
- Center for Preventive Doping Research/Institute of Biochemistry, German Sport University Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,European Monitoring Center for Emerging Doping Agents (EuMoCEDA), Cologne/Bonn, Germany
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46
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Appelman-Dijkstra NM, Papapoulos SE. Clinical advantages and disadvantages of anabolic bone therapies targeting the WNT pathway. Nat Rev Endocrinol 2018; 14:605-623. [PMID: 30181608 DOI: 10.1038/s41574-018-0087-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The WNT signalling pathway is a key regulator of bone metabolism, particularly bone formation, which has helped to define the role of osteocytes - the most abundant bone cells - as orchestrators of bone remodelling. Several molecules involved in the control of the WNT signalling pathway have been identified as potential targets for the development of bone-building therapeutics for patients with osteoporosis. Several of these molecules have been investigated in animal models, but only inhibitors of sclerostin (which is produced by osteocytes) have been investigated in phase III clinical studies. Here, we review the rationale for these developments and the specificity and potential off-target actions of WNT-based therapeutics. We also describe the available preclinical and clinical studies and discuss the benefits and risks of using sclerostin inhibitors for the management of patients with osteoporosis.
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47
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Jeong Y, Daghlas SA, Yixia X, Hulbert MA, Pfeiffer FM, Dallas MR, Omosule CL, Pearsall RS, Dallas SL, Phillips CL. Skeletal Response to Soluble Activin Receptor Type IIB in Mouse Models of Osteogenesis Imperfecta. J Bone Miner Res 2018; 33:1760-1772. [PMID: 29813187 PMCID: PMC6400483 DOI: 10.1002/jbmr.3473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2018] [Revised: 05/20/2018] [Accepted: 05/29/2018] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) is a heritable connective tissue disorder primarily due to mutations in the type I collagen genes (COL1A1 and COL1A2), leading to compromised biomechanical integrity in type I collagen-containing tissues such as bone. Bone is inherently mechanosensitive and thus responds and adapts to external stimuli, such as muscle mass and contractile strength, to alter its mass and shape. Myostatin, a member of the TGF-β superfamily, signals through activin receptor type IIB to negatively regulate muscle fiber growth. Because of the positive impact of myostatin deficiency on bone mass, we utilized a soluble activin receptor type IIB-mFc (sActRIIB-mFc) fusion protein in two molecularly distinct OI mouse models (G610C and oim) and evaluated their bone properties. Wild-type (WT), +/G610C, and oim/oim mice were treated from 2 to 4 months of age with either vehicle (Tris-buffered saline) or sActRIIB-mFc (10 mg/kg). Femurs of sActRIIB-mFc-treated mice exhibited increased trabecular bone volume regardless of genotype, whereas the cortical bone microarchitecture and biomechanical strength were only improved in WT and +/G610C mice. Dynamic histomorphometric analyses suggest the improved cortical bone geometry and biomechanical integrity reflect an anabolic effect due to increased mineral apposition and bone formation rates, whereas static histomorphometric analyses supported sActRIIB-mFc treatment also having an anti-catabolic impact with decreased osteoclast number per bone surface on trabecular bone regardless of sex and genotype. Together, our data suggest that sActRIIB-mFc may provide a new therapeutic direction to improve both bone and muscle properties in OI. © 2018 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youngjae Jeong
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, 65211
| | - Salah A. Daghlas
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, 65211
| | - Xie Yixia
- Department of Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, Missouri, 64108
| | - Molly A Hulbert
- Department of Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, Missouri, 64108
| | - Ferris M. Pfeiffer
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Bioengineering, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65211
| | - Mark R. Dallas
- Department of Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, Missouri, 64108
| | | | | | - Sarah L. Dallas
- Department of Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, Missouri, 64108
| | - Charlotte L. Phillips
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, 65211
- Department of Child Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, 65211
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48
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Systemic Activation of Activin A Signaling Causes Chronic Kidney Disease-Mineral Bone Disorder. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19092490. [PMID: 30142896 PMCID: PMC6163495 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19092490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2018] [Revised: 08/20/2018] [Accepted: 08/21/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The high cardiovascular mortality associated with chronic kidney disease (CKD) is caused in part by the CKD-mineral bone disorder (CKD-MBD) syndrome. The CKD-MBD consists of skeletal, vascular and cardiac pathology caused by metabolic derangements produced by kidney disease. The prevalence of osteopenia/osteoporosis resulting from the skeletal component of the CKD-MBD, renal osteodystrophy (ROD), in patients with CKD exceeds that of the general population and is a major public health concern. That CKD is associated with compromised bone health is widely accepted, yet the mechanisms underlying impaired bone metabolism in CKD are not fully understood. Therefore, clarification of the molecular mechanisms by which CKD produces ROD is of crucial significance. We have shown that activin A, a member of the transforming growth factor (TGF)-β super family, is an important positive regulator of receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand (RANKL)-induced osteoclastogenesis with Smad-mediated signaling being crucial for inducing osteoclast development and function. Recently, we have demonstrated systemic activation of activin receptors and activin A levels in CKD mouse models, such as diabetic CKD and Alport (AL) syndrome. In these CKD mouse models, bone remodeling caused by increased osteoclast numbers and activated osteoclastic bone resorption was observed and treatment with an activin receptor ligand trap repaired CKD-induced-osteoclastic bone resorption and stimulated individual osteoblastic bone formation, irrespective of parathyroid hormone (PTH) elevation. These findings have opened a new field for exploring mechanisms of activin A-enhanced osteoclast formation and function in CKD. Activin A appears to be a strong candidate for CKD-induced high-turnover ROD. Therefore, the treatment with the decoy receptor for activin A might be a good candidate for treatment for CKD-induced osteopenia or osteoporosis, indicating that the new findings from in these studies will lead to the identification of novel therapeutic targets for CKD-related and osteopenia and osteoporosis in general. In this review, we describe the impact of CKD-induced Smad signaling in osteoclasts, osteoblasts and vascular cells in CKD.
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49
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Abstract
Multiple myeloma (MM) is the second-most-common hematologic malignancy and the most frequent cancer to involve bone. MM bone disease (MMBD) has devastating consequences for patients, including dramatic bone loss, severe bone pain, and pathological fractures that markedly decrease the quality of life and impact survival of MM patients. MMBD results from excessive osteoclastic bone resorption and persistent suppressed osteoblastic bone formation, causing lytic lesions that do not heal, even when patients are in complete and prolonged remission. This review discusses the cellular and molecular mechanisms that regulate the uncoupling of bone remodeling in MM, the effects of MMBD on tumor growth, and potential therapeutic approaches that may prevent severe bone loss and repair damaged bone in MM patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Marino
- Department of Medicine, Division Hematology Oncology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana 46202
| | - G David Roodman
- Department of Medicine, Division Hematology Oncology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana 46202
- Roudebush VA Medical Center, Indianapolis, Indiana 46202
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50
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Lodberg A, Eijken M, van der Eerden BCJ, Okkels MW, Thomsen JS, Brüel A. A soluble activin type IIA receptor mitigates the loss of femoral neck bone strength and cancellous bone mass in a mouse model of disuse osteopenia. Bone 2018; 110:326-334. [PMID: 29499419 DOI: 10.1016/j.bone.2018.02.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2017] [Revised: 02/21/2018] [Accepted: 02/26/2018] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Disuse causes a rapid and substantial bone loss distinct in its pathophysiology from the bone loss associated with cancers, age, and menopause. While inhibitors of the activin-receptor signaling pathway (IASPs) have been shown to prevent ovariectomy- and cancer-induced bone loss, their application in a model of disuse osteopenia remains to be tested. Here, we show that a soluble activin type IIA receptor (ActRIIA-mFc) increases diaphyseal bone strength and cancellous bone mass, and mitigates the loss of femoral neck bone strength in the Botulinum Toxin A (BTX)-model of disuse osteopenia in female C57BL/6J mice. We show that ActRIIA-mFc treatment preferentially stimulates a dual-effect (anabolic-antiresorptive) on the periosteal envelope of diaphyseal bone, demonstrating in detail the effects of ActRIIA-mFc on cortical bone. These observations constitute a previously undescribed feature of IASPs that mediates at least part of their ability to mitigate detrimental effects of unloading on bone tissue. The study findings support the application of IASPs as a strategy to combat bone loss during disuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Lodberg
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark; Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.
| | - Marco Eijken
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark; Department of Renal Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.
| | | | | | | | - Annemarie Brüel
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.
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