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Cui Y, Liu Y, Yang J, Duan H, Wang P, Guo L, Guo Y, Li S, Zhao Y, Wang J, Qi G, Guan J. Microencapsulated Lactobacillus plantarum promotes intestinal development through gut colonization of layer chicks. ANIMAL NUTRITION (ZHONGGUO XU MU SHOU YI XUE HUI) 2024; 18:1-16. [PMID: 38989011 PMCID: PMC11231655 DOI: 10.1016/j.aninu.2024.03.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024]
Abstract
The effects of Lactobacillus plantarum in microencapsulation (LPM) on intestinal development in layer chicks were investigated in this study, as well as the colonization of L. plantarum in the gut. A total of 480 healthy Hy-Line Brown layer chicks at 0 d old were randomly divided into 4 groups (8 replicates each treatment), and the diets of these birds were supplemented with nothing (control), L. plantarum (0.02 g/kg feed; 109 CFU/kg feed), LPM (1.0 g/kg feed; 109 CFU/kg feed) and wall material of LPM (WM; 0.98 g/kg feed), respectively. Compared to control, LPM improved growth performance and intestinal development of layer chicks, evidenced by significantly increased body weight, average daily gain, average daily feed intake, villus height, villus height/crypt depth, as well as weight and length of the duodenum, jejunum and ileum (P < 0.05). These results could be attributed to the increased colonization of L. plantarum in the gut, which was verified by significant increases in lactic acid content, viable counts in chyme and mucosa (P < 0.05), as well as a visible rise in number of strains labeled with fluorescein isothiocyanate. Meanwhile, the relative abundances of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium significantly increased in response to microencapsulated L. plantarum supplementation (P < 0.05), accompanied by the significant up-regulation of colonization related genes (P < 0.05), encoding solute carrier family, monocarboxylate transporter, activin A receptor, succinate receptor and secretogranin II. To sum up, microencapsulated L. plantarum supplementation promoted intestinal development, which could be attributed to the enhancement of L. plantarum colonization in the intestine through the mutual assistance of Bifidobacterium and interactions with colonization related transmembrane proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaoming Cui
- School of Biological Engineering, Henan University of Technology, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, China
| | - Yanxia Liu
- School of Biological Engineering, Henan University of Technology, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, China
| | - Jing Yang
- School of Biological Engineering, Henan University of Technology, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, China
| | - Haitao Duan
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Animal Husbandry and Economy, Zhengzhou, Henan 450046, China
| | - Peng Wang
- School of Biological Engineering, Henan University of Technology, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, China
| | - Linna Guo
- School of Biological Engineering, Henan University of Technology, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, China
| | - Yanjiao Guo
- School of Biological Engineering, Henan University of Technology, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, China
| | - Suying Li
- School of Biological Engineering, Henan University of Technology, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, China
| | - Yating Zhao
- School of Biological Engineering, Henan University of Technology, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, China
| | - Jinrong Wang
- School of Biological Engineering, Henan University of Technology, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, China
| | - Guanghai Qi
- Feed Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Junjun Guan
- School of Biological Engineering, Henan University of Technology, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, China
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Coltoff A, Kuykendall A. Emerging drug profile: JAK inhibitors. Leuk Lymphoma 2024; 65:1258-1269. [PMID: 38739701 DOI: 10.1080/10428194.2024.2353434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Dysregulated JAK/STAT hyperactivity is essential to the pathogenesis of myelofibrosis, and JAK inhibitors are the first-line treatment option for many patients. There are four FDA-approved JAK inhibitors for patients with myelofibrosis. Single-agent JAK inhibition can improve splenomegaly, symptom burden, cytopenias, and possibly survival in patients with myelofibrosis. Despite their efficacy, JAK inhibitors produce variable or short-lived responses, in part due to the large network of cooperating signaling pathways and downstream targets of JAK/STAT, which mediates upfront or acquired resistance to JAK inhibitors. Synergistic inhibition of JAK/STAT accessory pathways can increase the rates and duration of response for patients with myelofibrosis. Two recently reported, placebo-controlled phase III trials of novel agents added to JAK inhibition met their primary endpoint, and additional late-stage studies are ongoing. This paper will review role of dysregulated JAK/STAT signaling, biological plausible additional therapeutic targets and the recent advancements in combination strategies with JAK inhibitors for myelofibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Coltoff
- Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Andrew Kuykendall
- Department of Malignant Hematology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, USA
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Guerra A, Hamilton N, Rivera A, Demsko P, Guo S, Rivella S. Combination of a TGF-β ligand trap (RAP-GRL) and TMPRSS6-ASO is superior for correcting β-thalassemia. Am J Hematol 2024; 99:1300-1312. [PMID: 38659383 PMCID: PMC11166515 DOI: 10.1002/ajh.27332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
A recently approved drug that induces erythroid cell maturation (luspatercept) has been shown to improve anemia and reduce the need for blood transfusion in non-transfusion-dependent as well as transfusion-dependent β-thalassemia (BT) patients. Although these results were predominantly positive, not all the patients showed the expected increase in hemoglobin (Hb) levels or transfusion burden reduction. Additional studies indicated that administration of luspatercept in transfusion-dependent BT was associated with increased erythropoietic markers, decreased hepcidin levels, and increased liver iron content. Altogether, these studies suggest that luspatercept may necessitate additional drugs for improved erythroid and iron management. As luspatercept does not appear to directly affect iron metabolism, we hypothesized that TMPRSS6-ASO could improve iron parameters and iron overload when co-administered with luspatercept. We used an agent analogous to murine luspatercept (RAP-GRL) and another novel therapeutic, IONIS TMPRSS6-LRx (TMPRSS6-ASO), a hepcidin inducer, to treat non-transfusion-dependent BT-intermedia mice. Our study shows that RAP-GRL alone improved red blood cell (RBC) production, with no or limited effect on splenomegaly and iron parameters. In contrast, TMPRSS6-ASO improved RBC measurements, ameliorated splenomegaly, and improved iron overload most effectively. Our results provide pre-clinical support for combining TMPRSS6-ASO and luspatercept in treating BT, as these drugs together show potential for simultaneously improving both erythroid and iron parameters in BT patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amaliris Guerra
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Nolan Hamilton
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Ariel Rivera
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Perry Demsko
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), Philadelphia, PA, USA
- University of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Cell and Molecular Biology affinity group (CAMB), University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Shuling Guo
- Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Carlsbad, CA, USA
| | - Stefano Rivella
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), Philadelphia, PA, USA
- University of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Cell and Molecular Biology affinity group (CAMB), University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Raymond G. Perelman Center for Cellular and Molecular Therapeutics-CHOP
- Penn Center for Musculoskeletal Disorders, CHOP, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Lan XQ, Deng CJ, Wang QQ, Zhao LM, Jiao BW, Xiang Y. The role of TGF-β signaling in muscle atrophy, sarcopenia and cancer cachexia. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2024; 353:114513. [PMID: 38604437 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2024.114513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2023] [Revised: 02/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
Skeletal muscle, comprising a significant proportion (40 to 50 percent) of total body weight in humans, plays a critical role in maintaining normal physiological conditions. Muscle atrophy occurs when the rate of protein degradation exceeds protein synthesis. Sarcopenia refers to age-related muscle atrophy, while cachexia represents a more complex form of muscle wasting associated with various diseases such as cancer, heart failure, and AIDS. Recent research has highlighted the involvement of signaling pathways, including IGF1-Akt-mTOR, MuRF1-MAFbx, and FOXO, in regulating the delicate balance between muscle protein synthesis and breakdown. Myostatin, a member of the TGF-β superfamily, negatively regulates muscle growth and promotes muscle atrophy by activating Smad2 and Smad3. It also interacts with other signaling pathways in cachexia and sarcopenia. Inhibition of myostatin has emerged as a promising therapeutic approach for sarcopenia and cachexia. Additionally, other TGF-β family members, such as TGF-β1, activin A, and GDF11, have been implicated in the regulation of skeletal muscle mass. Furthermore, myostatin cooperates with these family members to impair muscle differentiation and contribute to muscle loss. This review provides an overview of the significance of myostatin and other TGF-β signaling pathway members in muscular dystrophy, sarcopenia, and cachexia. It also discusses potential novel therapeutic strategies targeting myostatin and TGF-β signaling for the treatment of muscle atrophy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin-Qiang Lan
- Metabolic Control and Aging Group, Human Aging Research Institute (HARI) and School of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, Jiangxi, China
| | - Cheng-Jie Deng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Basic Medical Science, Kunming Medical University, Kunming 650500, Yunnan, China
| | - Qi-Quan Wang
- Metabolic Control and Aging Group, Human Aging Research Institute (HARI) and School of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, Jiangxi, China
| | - Li-Min Zhao
- Senescence and Cancer Group, Human Aging Research Institute (HARI) and School of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, Jiangxi, China
| | - Bao-Wei Jiao
- National Key Laboratory of Genetic Evolution & Animal Models, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650201, Yunnan, China
| | - Yang Xiang
- Metabolic Control and Aging Group, Human Aging Research Institute (HARI) and School of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, Jiangxi, China.
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Swan J, Szabó Z, Peters J, Kummu O, Kemppi A, Rahtu-Korpela L, Konzack A, Hakkola J, Pasternack A, Ritvos O, Kerkelä R, Magga J. Inhibition of activin receptor 2 signalling ameliorates metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease in western diet/L-NAME induced cardiometabolic disease. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 175:116683. [PMID: 38705130 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Blockade of activin 2 receptor (ACVR2) signaling has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and aid in weight loss. Inhibition of ACVR2 signaling restores cardiac function in multiple heart failure models. However, its potential in the treatment of obesity-related cardiometabolic disease remains unknown. Here, we investigated targeting ACVR2 signaling in cardiometabolic disease manifested with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). METHODS Mice were fed a high-fat, high-sugar diet combined with the administration of nitric oxide synthase inhibitor L-NAME in drinking water, which causes hypertensive stress. For the last eight weeks, the mice were treated with the soluble ACVR2B decoy receptor (sACVR2B-Fc). RESULTS sACVR2B-Fc protected against the development of comorbidities associated with cardiometabolic disease. This was most pronounced in the liver where ACVR2 blockade attenuated the development of MASLD including cessation of pro-fibrotic activation. It also significantly reduced total plasma cholesterol levels, impeded brown adipose tissue whitening, and improved cardiac diastolic function. In vitro, ACVR2 ligands activin A, activin B and GDF11 induced profibrotic signaling and the proliferation of human cardiac fibroblasts. CONCLUSIONS Blockade of ACVR2B exerts broad beneficial effects for therapy of cardiometabolic disease. By reducing obesity, ameliorating cardiovascular deterioration and restraining MASLD, blockade of ACVR2B signaling proves a potential target in MASLD and its comorbidities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Swan
- Research Unit of Biomedicine and Internal Medicine, University of Oulu, Aapistie 5, Oulu 90220, Finland; Biocenter Oulu, University of Oulu, Aapistie 5, Oulu 90220, Finland.
| | - Zoltán Szabó
- Research Unit of Biomedicine and Internal Medicine, University of Oulu, Aapistie 5, Oulu 90220, Finland
| | - Juliana Peters
- Research Unit of Biomedicine and Internal Medicine, University of Oulu, Aapistie 5, Oulu 90220, Finland
| | - Outi Kummu
- Research Unit of Biomedicine and Internal Medicine, University of Oulu, Aapistie 5, Oulu 90220, Finland; Biocenter Oulu, University of Oulu, Aapistie 5, Oulu 90220, Finland; Medical Research Centre Oulu, Oulu University Hospital and University of Oulu, Aapistie 5, Oulu 90220, Finland
| | - Anna Kemppi
- Research Unit of Biomedicine and Internal Medicine, University of Oulu, Aapistie 5, Oulu 90220, Finland
| | - Lea Rahtu-Korpela
- Research Unit of Biomedicine and Internal Medicine, University of Oulu, Aapistie 5, Oulu 90220, Finland
| | - Anja Konzack
- Research Unit of Biomedicine and Internal Medicine, University of Oulu, Aapistie 5, Oulu 90220, Finland; Biocenter Oulu, University of Oulu, Aapistie 5, Oulu 90220, Finland; Medical Research Centre Oulu, Oulu University Hospital and University of Oulu, Aapistie 5, Oulu 90220, Finland
| | - Jukka Hakkola
- Research Unit of Biomedicine and Internal Medicine, University of Oulu, Aapistie 5, Oulu 90220, Finland; Biocenter Oulu, University of Oulu, Aapistie 5, Oulu 90220, Finland; Medical Research Centre Oulu, Oulu University Hospital and University of Oulu, Aapistie 5, Oulu 90220, Finland
| | - Arja Pasternack
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Haartmaninkatu 8, Helsinki 00014, Finland
| | - Olli Ritvos
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Haartmaninkatu 8, Helsinki 00014, Finland
| | - Risto Kerkelä
- Research Unit of Biomedicine and Internal Medicine, University of Oulu, Aapistie 5, Oulu 90220, Finland; Biocenter Oulu, University of Oulu, Aapistie 5, Oulu 90220, Finland; Medical Research Centre Oulu, Oulu University Hospital and University of Oulu, Aapistie 5, Oulu 90220, Finland
| | - Johanna Magga
- Research Unit of Biomedicine and Internal Medicine, University of Oulu, Aapistie 5, Oulu 90220, Finland; Biocenter Oulu, University of Oulu, Aapistie 5, Oulu 90220, Finland.
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Bernstein LR, Mackenzie ACL, Chaffin CL, Lee SJ, Kraemer DC, Merchenthaler I. Gonadotropin elevation is ootoxic to ovulatory oocytes and inhibits oocyte maturation, and activin decoy receptor ActRIIB:Fc therapeutically restores maturation. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2024; 22:52. [PMID: 38711160 PMCID: PMC11071334 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-024-01224-8] [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: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Elevated FSH often occurs in women of advanced maternal age (AMA, age ≥ 35) and in infertility patients undergoing controlled ovarian stimulation (COS). There is controversy on whether high endogenous FSH contributes to infertility and whether high exogenous FSH adversely impacts patient pregnancy rates. METHODS The senescence-accelerated mouse-prone-8 (SAMP8) model of female reproductive aging was employed to assess the separate impacts of age and high FSH activity on the percentages (%) of viable and mature ovulated oocytes recovered after gonadotropin treatment. Young and midlife mice were treated with the FSH analog equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) to model both endogenous FSH elevation and exogenous FSH elevation. Previously we showed the activin inhibitor ActRIIB:Fc increases oocyte quality by preventing chromosome and spindle misalignments. Therefore, ActRIIB:Fc treatment was performed in an effort to increase % oocyte viability and % oocyte maturation. RESULTS The high FSH activity of eCG is ootoxic to ovulatory oocytes, with greater decreases in % viable oocytes in midlife than young mice. High FSH activity of eCG potently inhibits oocyte maturation, decreasing the % of mature oocytes to similar degrees in young and midlife mice. ActRIIB:Fc treatment does not prevent eCG ootoxicity, but it restores most oocyte maturation impeded by eCG. CONCLUSIONS FSH ootoxicity to ovulatory oocytes and FSH maturation inhibition pose a paradox given the well-known pro-growth and pro-maturation activities of FSH in the earlier stages of oocyte growth. We propose the FOOT Hypothesis ("FSH OoToxicity Hypothesis), that FSH ootoxicity to ovulatory oocytes comprises a new driver of infertility and low pregnancy success rates in DOR women attempting spontaneous pregnancy and in COS/IUI patients, especially AMA women. We speculate that endogenous FSH elevation also contributes to reduced fecundity in these DOR and COS/IUI patients. Restoration of oocyte maturation by ActRIB:Fc suggests that activin suppresses oocyte maturation in vivo. This contrasts with prior studies showing activin A promotes oocyte maturation in vitro. Improved oocyte maturation with agents that decrease endogenous activin activity with high specificity may have therapeutic benefit for COS/IVF patients, COS/IUI patients, and DOR patients attempting spontaneous pregnancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lori R Bernstein
- Pregmama, LLC, Gaithersburg, MD, 20886, USA.
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Texas A & M School of Medicine, College Station, TX, 77843, USA.
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA.
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M School of Veterinary Medicine, College Station, TX, 77843, USA.
| | - Amelia C L Mackenzie
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Texas A & M School of Medicine, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
- FHI 360, Durham, NC, 27701, USA
| | - Charles L Chaffin
- Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | - Se-Jin Lee
- University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, 06030, USA
- The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT, 06030, USA
| | - Duane C Kraemer
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology, Texas A & M School of Veterinary Medicine, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Istvan Merchenthaler
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
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Srinivasan D, Arostegui M, Goebel EJ, Hart KN, Aykul S, Lees-Shepard JB, Idone V, Hatsell SJ, Economides AN. How Activin A Became a Therapeutic Target in Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva. Biomolecules 2024; 14:101. [PMID: 38254701 PMCID: PMC10813747 DOI: 10.3390/biom14010101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP) is a rare genetic disorder characterized by episodic yet cumulative heterotopic ossification (HO) of skeletal muscles, tendons, ligaments, and fascia. FOP arises from missense mutations in Activin Receptor type I (ACVR1), a type I bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) receptor. Although initial findings implicated constitutive activity of FOP-variant ACVR1 (ACVR1FOP) and/or hyperactivation by BMPs, it was later shown that HO in FOP requires activation of ACVR1FOP by Activin A. Inhibition of Activin A completely prevents HO in FOP mice, indicating that Activin A is an obligate driver of HO in FOP, and excluding a key role for BMPs in this process. This discovery led to the clinical development of garetosmab, an investigational antibody that blocks Activin A. In a phase 2 trial, garetosmab inhibited new heterotopic bone lesion formation in FOP patients. In contrast, antibodies to ACVR1 activate ACVR1FOP and promote HO in FOP mice. Beyond their potential clinical relevance, these findings have enhanced our understanding of FOP's pathophysiology, leading to the identification of fibroadipogenic progenitors as the cells that form HO, and the discovery of non-signaling complexes between Activin A and wild type ACVR1 and their role in tempering HO, and are also starting to inform biological processes beyond FOP.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Aris N. Economides
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Tarrytown, NY 10591, USA; (D.S.); (M.A.); (E.J.G.); (K.N.H.); (S.A.); (J.B.L.-S.); (V.I.); (S.J.H.)
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Bernstein LR, Mackenzie ACL, Durkin K, Kraemer DC, Chaffin CL, Merchenthaler I. Maternal age and gonadotrophin elevation cooperatively decrease viable ovulated oocytes and increase ootoxicity, chromosome-, and spindle-misalignments: '2-Hit' and 'FSH-OoToxicity' mechanisms as new reproductive aging hypotheses. Mol Hum Reprod 2023; 29:gaad030. [PMID: 37643633 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaad030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
While there is consensus that advanced maternal age (AMA) reduces oocyte yield and quality, the notion that high FSH reduces oocyte quality and causes aneuploidy remains controversial, perhaps due to difficulties controlling the confounding variables of age and FSH levels. Here, contributions of age and gonadotrophin elevation were separately controlled using a mouse model of human female reproductive aging. Ovulated oocytes were collected from young and midlife mice after 0-, 2.6-, or 17-day treatment with the FSH analog equine chorionic gonadotrophin (eCG), to model both exogenous FSH elevation within a single treatment cycle (as in controlled ovarian stimulation (COS)), and chronic endogenous FSH elevation during multiple cycles (as in diminished ovarian reserve). After 17-day eCG, fewer total oocytes/mouse are ovulated in midlife than young mice, and a precipitous decline in viable oocytes/mouse is observed in midlife but not young mice throughout eCG treatment. eCG is potently ootoxic to ovulatory oocytes and strongly induces chromosome- and spindle-misalignments within 2.6 days of eCG in midlife, but only after 17 days in young mice. These data indicate that AMA increases susceptibility to multiple adverse effects of elevated FSH activity in ovulated oocytes, including declines in total and viable oocytes/mouse, and induction of ootoxicity and aneuploidy. Two hypotheses are proposed for underlying causes of infertility in women. The FSH OOToxicity Hypothesis ('FOOT Hypothesis') posits that high FSH is ootoxic to ovulatory oocytes and that FSH ootoxicity is a root cause of low pregnancy success rates in naturally cycling women with high FSH and IUI patients undergoing COS. The '2-Hit Hypothesis' posits that AMA increases susceptibility to FSH-induced ootoxicity and aneuploidy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lori R Bernstein
- Pregmama LLC, Gaithersburg, MD, USA
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Texas A & M School of Medicine, College Station, TX, USA
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M School of Veterinary Medicine, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Amelia C L Mackenzie
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Keith Durkin
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M School of Veterinary Medicine, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Duane C Kraemer
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology, Texas A & M College of Veterinary Medicine, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Charles L Chaffin
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Istvan Merchenthaler
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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9
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Zheng XQ, Lin JL, Huang J, Wu T, Song CL. Targeting aging with the healthy skeletal system: The endocrine role of bone. Rev Endocr Metab Disord 2023; 24:695-711. [PMID: 37402956 DOI: 10.1007/s11154-023-09812-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023]
Abstract
Aging is an inevitable biological process, and longevity may be related to bone health. Maintaining strong bone health can extend one's lifespan, but the exact mechanism is unclear. Bone and extraosseous organs, including the heart and brain, have complex and precise communication mechanisms. In addition to its load bearing capacity, the skeletal system secretes cytokines, which play a role in bone regulation of extraosseous organs. FGF23, OCN, and LCN2 are three representative bone-derived cytokines involved in energy metabolism, endocrine homeostasis and systemic chronic inflammation levels. Today, advanced research methods provide new understandings of bone as a crucial endocrine organ. For example, gene editing technology enables bone-specific conditional gene knockout models, which allows the study of bone-derived cytokines to be more precise. We systematically evaluated the various effects of bone-derived cytokines on extraosseous organs and their possible antiaging mechanism. Targeting aging with the current knowledge of the healthy skeletal system is a potential therapeutic strategy. Therefore, we present a comprehensive review that summarizes the current knowledge and provides insights for futures studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan-Qi Zheng
- Department of Orthopaedics, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jia-Liang Lin
- Department of Orthopaedics, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jie Huang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Tong Wu
- Department of Orthopaedics, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Chun-Li Song
- Department of Orthopaedics, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Spinal Disease Research, Beijing, China.
- Engineering Research Center of Bone and Joint Precision Medicine, Beijing, China.
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Culver A, Hamang M, Wang Y, Jiang H, Yanum J, White E, Gawrieh S, Vuppalanchi RK, Chalasani NP, Dai G, Yaden BC. GDF8 Contributes to Liver Fibrogenesis and Concomitant Skeletal Muscle Wasting. Biomedicines 2023; 11:1909. [PMID: 37509548 PMCID: PMC10377408 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11071909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2023] [Revised: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Patients with end-stage liver disease exhibit progressive skeletal muscle atrophy, highlighting a negative crosstalk between the injured liver and muscle. Our study was to determine whether TGFβ ligands function as the mediators. Acute or chronic liver injury was induced by a single or repeated administration of carbon tetrachloride. Skeletal muscle injury and repair was induced by intramuscular injection of cardiotoxin. Activin type IIB receptor (ActRIIB) ligands and growth differentiation factor 8 (Gdf8) were neutralized with ActRIIB-Fc fusion protein and a Gdf8-specific antibody, respectively. We found that acute hepatic injury induced rapid and adverse responses in muscle, which was blunted by neutralizing ActRIIB ligands. Chronic liver injury caused muscle atrophy and repair defects, which were prevented or reversed by inactivating ActRIIB ligands. Furthermore, we found that pericentral hepatocytes produce excessive Gdf8 in injured mouse liver and cirrhotic human liver. Specific inactivation of Gdf8 prevented liver injury-induced muscle atrophy, similar to neutralization of ActRIIB ligands. Inhibition of Gdf8 also reversed muscle atrophy in a treatment paradigm following chronic liver injury. Direct injection of exogenous Gdf8 protein into muscle along with acute focal muscle injury recapitulated similar dysregulated muscle regeneration as that observed with liver injury. The results indicate that injured liver negatively communicate with the muscle largely via Gdf8. Unexpectedly, inactivation of Gdf8 simultaneously ameliorated liver fibrosis in mice following chronic liver injury. In vitro, Gdf8 induced human hepatic stellate (LX-2) cells to form a septa-like structure and stimulated expression of profibrotic factors. Our findings identified Gdf8 as a novel hepatomyokine contributing to injured liver-muscle negative crosstalk along with liver injury progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Culver
- Department of Biology, School of Science, Center for Developmental and Regenerative Biology, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Matthew Hamang
- Department of Biology, School of Science, Center for Developmental and Regenerative Biology, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Yan Wang
- Department of Biology, School of Science, Center for Developmental and Regenerative Biology, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Huaizhou Jiang
- Department of Biology, School of Science, Center for Developmental and Regenerative Biology, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Jennifer Yanum
- Department of Biology, School of Science, Center for Developmental and Regenerative Biology, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Emily White
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 46202, USA
| | - Samer Gawrieh
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, School of Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Raj K Vuppalanchi
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, School of Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Naga P Chalasani
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, School of Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Guoli Dai
- Department of Biology, School of Science, Center for Developmental and Regenerative Biology, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Benjamin C Yaden
- Department of Biology, School of Science, Center for Developmental and Regenerative Biology, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
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11
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Hye T, Hossain MR, Saha D, Foyez T, Ahsan F. Emerging biologics for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension. J Drug Target 2023; 31:1-15. [PMID: 37026714 PMCID: PMC10228297 DOI: 10.1080/1061186x.2023.2199351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023]
Abstract
Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a rare pulmonary vascular disorder, wherein mean systemic arterial pressure (mPAP) becomes abnormally high because of aberrant changes in various proliferative and inflammatory signalling pathways of pulmonary arterial cells. Currently used anti-PAH drugs chiefly target the vasodilatory and vasoconstrictive pathways. However, an imbalance between bone morphogenetic protein receptor type II (BMPRII) and transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) pathways is also implicated in PAH predisposition and pathogenesis. Compared to currently used PAH drugs, various biologics have shown promise as PAH therapeutics that elicit their therapeutic actions akin to endogenous proteins. Biologics that have thus far been explored as PAH therapeutics include monoclonal antibodies, recombinant proteins, engineered cells, and nucleic acids. Because of their similarity with naturally occurring proteins and high binding affinity, biologics are more potent and effective and produce fewer side effects when compared with small molecule drugs. However, biologics also suffer from the limitations of producing immunogenic adverse effects. This review describes various emerging and promising biologics targeting the proliferative/apoptotic and vasodilatory pathways involved in PAH pathogenesis. Here, we have discussed sotatercept, a TGF-β ligand trap, which is reported to reverse vascular remodelling and reduce PVR with an improved 6-minute walk distance (6-MWDT). We also elaborated on other biologics including BMP9 ligand and anti-gremlin1 antibody, anti-OPG antibody, and getagozumab monoclonal antibody and cell-based therapies. Overall, recent literature suggests that biologics hold excellent promise as a safe and effective alternative to currently used PAH therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanvirul Hye
- Department of Foundational Medical Studies, Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine, Rochester, Michigan
| | - Md Riajul Hossain
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, Arkansas
| | - Dipongkor Saha
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, California Northstate College of Pharmacy, Elk Grove, California
| | - Tahmina Foyez
- Department of Hematology Blood Research Center School of Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Fakhrul Ahsan
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, California Northstate College of Pharmacy, Elk Grove, California
- MedLuidics LLC, Elk Grove, California, USA
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12
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Beaven E, Kumar R, Bhatt HN, Esquivel SV, Nurunnabi M. Myofibroblast specific targeting approaches to improve fibrosis treatment. Chem Commun (Camb) 2022; 58:13556-13571. [PMID: 36445310 PMCID: PMC9946855 DOI: 10.1039/d2cc04825f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Fibrosis has been shown to develop in individuals with underlying health conditions, especially chronic inflammatory diseases. Fibrosis is often diagnosed in various organs, including the liver, lungs, kidneys, heart, and skin, and has been described as excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix that can affect specific organs in the body or systemically throughout the body. Fibrosis as a chronic condition can result in organ failure and result in death of the individual. Understanding and identification of specific biomarkers associated with fibrosis has emerging potential in the development of diagnosis and targeting treatment modalities. Therefore, in this review, we will discuss multiple signaling pathways such as TGF-β, collagen, angiotensin, and cadherin and outline the chemical nature of the different signaling pathways involved in fibrogenesis as well as the mechanisms. Although it has been well established that TGF-β is the main catalyst initiating and driving multiple pathways for fibrosis, targeting TGF-β can be challenging as this molecule regulates essential functions throughout the body that help to keep the body in homeostasis. We also discuss collagen, angiotensin, and cadherins and their role in fibrosis. We comprehensively discuss the various delivery systems used to target collagen, angiotensin, and cadherins to manage fibrosis. Nevertheless, understanding the steps by which this molecule drives fibrosis development can aid in the development of specific targets of its cascading mechanism. Throughout the review, we will demonstrate the mechanism of fibrosis targeting to improve targeting delivery and therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elfa Beaven
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX 79902, USA.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, USA
| | - Raj Kumar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX 79902, USA.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, USA
| | - Himanshu N Bhatt
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX 79902, USA.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, USA
| | - Stephanie V Esquivel
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX 79902, USA.
- Aerospace Center (cSETR), The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, USA
| | - Md Nurunnabi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX 79902, USA.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, USA
- Aerospace Center (cSETR), The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, USA
- Border Biomedical Research Center, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, USA
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13
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Queiroz AL, Dantas E, Ramsamooj S, Murthy A, Ahmed M, Zunica ERM, Liang RJ, Murphy J, Holman CD, Bare CJ, Ghahramani G, Wu Z, Cohen DE, Kirwan JP, Cantley LC, Axelrod CL, Goncalves MD. Blocking ActRIIB and restoring appetite reverses cachexia and improves survival in mice with lung cancer. Nat Commun 2022; 13:4633. [PMID: 35941104 PMCID: PMC9360437 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-32135-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer cachexia is a common, debilitating condition with limited therapeutic options. Using an established mouse model of lung cancer, we find that cachexia is characterized by reduced food intake, spontaneous activity, and energy expenditure accompanied by muscle metabolic dysfunction and atrophy. We identify Activin A as a purported driver of cachexia and treat with ActRIIB-Fc, a decoy ligand for TGF-β/activin family members, together with anamorelin (Ana), a ghrelin receptor agonist, to reverse muscle dysfunction and anorexia, respectively. Ana effectively increases food intake but only the combination of drugs increases lean mass, restores spontaneous activity, and improves overall survival. These beneficial effects are limited to female mice and are dependent on ovarian function. In agreement, high expression of Activin A in human lung adenocarcinoma correlates with unfavorable prognosis only in female patients, despite similar expression levels in both sexes. This study suggests that multimodal, sex-specific, therapies are needed to reverse cachexia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andre Lima Queiroz
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10065, USA
- Meyer Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Ezequiel Dantas
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10065, USA
- Meyer Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Shakti Ramsamooj
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10065, USA
- Meyer Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Anirudh Murthy
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10065, USA
- Meyer Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Mujmmail Ahmed
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10065, USA
- Meyer Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | | | - Roger J Liang
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10065, USA
- Meyer Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Jessica Murphy
- Meyer Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10065, USA
- Center for Molecular Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, 10065, USA
- Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Corey D Holman
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Curtis J Bare
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Gregory Ghahramani
- Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Zhidan Wu
- Internal Medicine Research Unit, Pfizer Global R&D, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - David E Cohen
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - John P Kirwan
- Pennington Biomedical Research Center, Baton Rouge, LA, 70808, USA
| | - Lewis C Cantley
- Meyer Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | | | - Marcus D Goncalves
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10065, USA.
- Meyer Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10065, USA.
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14
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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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15
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Zschüntzsch J, Meyer S, Shahriyari M, Kummer K, Schmidt M, Kummer S, Tiburcy M. The Evolution of Complex Muscle Cell In Vitro Models to Study Pathomechanisms and Drug Development of Neuromuscular Disease. Cells 2022; 11:1233. [PMID: 35406795 PMCID: PMC8997482 DOI: 10.3390/cells11071233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Many neuromuscular disease entities possess a significant disease burden and therapeutic options remain limited. Innovative human preclinical models may help to uncover relevant disease mechanisms and enhance the translation of therapeutic findings to strengthen neuromuscular disease precision medicine. By concentrating on idiopathic inflammatory muscle disorders, we summarize the recent evolution of the novel in vitro models to study disease mechanisms and therapeutic strategies. A particular focus is laid on the integration and simulation of multicellular interactions of muscle tissue in disease phenotypes in vitro. Finally, the requirements of a neuromuscular disease drug development workflow are discussed with a particular emphasis on cell sources, co-culture systems (including organoids), functionality, and throughput.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jana Zschüntzsch
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Goettingen, 37075 Goettingen, Germany; (S.M.); (K.K.); (M.S.)
| | - Stefanie Meyer
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Goettingen, 37075 Goettingen, Germany; (S.M.); (K.K.); (M.S.)
| | - Mina Shahriyari
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Medical Center Goettingen, 37075 Goettingen, Germany;
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Göttingen, 37075 Goettingen, Germany
| | - Karsten Kummer
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Goettingen, 37075 Goettingen, Germany; (S.M.); (K.K.); (M.S.)
| | - Matthias Schmidt
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Goettingen, 37075 Goettingen, Germany; (S.M.); (K.K.); (M.S.)
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Medical Center Goettingen, 37075 Goettingen, Germany;
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Göttingen, 37075 Goettingen, Germany
| | - Susann Kummer
- Risk Group 4 Pathogens–Stability and Persistence, Biosafety Level-4 Laboratory, Center for Biological Threats and Special Pathogens, Robert Koch Institute, 13353 Berlin, Germany;
| | - Malte Tiburcy
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Medical Center Goettingen, 37075 Goettingen, Germany;
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Göttingen, 37075 Goettingen, Germany
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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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Rodgers BD, Ward CW. Myostatin/Activin Receptor Ligands in Muscle and the Development Status of Attenuating Drugs. Endocr Rev 2022; 43:329-365. [PMID: 34520530 PMCID: PMC8905337 DOI: 10.1210/endrev/bnab030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Muscle wasting disease indications are among the most debilitating and often deadly noncommunicable disease states. As a comorbidity, muscle wasting is associated with different neuromuscular diseases and myopathies, cancer, heart failure, chronic pulmonary and renal diseases, peripheral neuropathies, inflammatory disorders, and, of course, musculoskeletal injuries. Current treatment strategies are relatively ineffective and can at best only limit the rate of muscle degeneration. This includes nutritional supplementation and appetite stimulants as well as immunosuppressants capable of exacerbating muscle loss. Arguably, the most promising treatments in development attempt to disrupt myostatin and activin receptor signaling because these circulating factors are potent inhibitors of muscle growth and regulators of muscle progenitor cell differentiation. Indeed, several studies demonstrated the clinical potential of "inhibiting the inhibitors," increasing muscle cell protein synthesis, decreasing degradation, enhancing mitochondrial biogenesis, and preserving muscle function. Such changes can prevent muscle wasting in various disease animal models yet many drugs targeting this pathway failed during clinical trials, some from serious treatment-related adverse events and off-target interactions. More often, however, failures resulted from the inability to improve muscle function despite preserving muscle mass. Drugs still in development include antibodies and gene therapeutics, all with different targets and thus, safety, efficacy, and proposed use profiles. Each is unique in design and, if successful, could revolutionize the treatment of both acute and chronic muscle wasting. They could also be used in combination with other developing therapeutics for related muscle pathologies or even metabolic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Christopher W Ward
- Department of Orthopedics and Center for Biomedical Engineering and Technology (BioMET), University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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18
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Goebel EJ, Kattamuri C, Gipson GR, Krishnan L, Chavez M, Czepnik M, Maguire MC, Grenha R, Håkansson M, Logan DT, Grinberg AV, Sako D, Castonguay R, Kumar R, Thompson TB. Structures of activin ligand traps using natural sets of type I and type II TGFβ receptors. iScience 2022; 25:103590. [PMID: 35005539 PMCID: PMC8718839 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2021.103590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Revised: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The 30+ unique ligands of the TGFβ family signal by forming complexes using different combinations of type I and type II receptors. Therapeutically, the extracellular domain of a single receptor fused to an Fc molecule can effectively neutralize subsets of ligands. Increased ligand specificity can be accomplished by using the extracellular domains of both the type I and type II receptor to mimic the naturally occurring signaling complex. Here, we report the structure of one "type II-type I-Fc" fusion, ActRIIB-Alk4-Fc, in complex with two TGFβ family ligands, ActA, and GDF11, providing a snapshot of this therapeutic platform. The study reveals that extensive contacts are formed by both receptors, replicating the ternary signaling complex, despite the inherent low affinity of Alk4. Our study shows that low-affinity type I interactions support altered ligand specificity and can be visualized at the molecular level using this platform.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erich J. Goebel
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Biochemistry, and Microbiology, University of Cincinnati, 231 Albert Sabin Way ML 0524, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| | - Chandramohan Kattamuri
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Biochemistry, and Microbiology, University of Cincinnati, 231 Albert Sabin Way ML 0524, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| | - Gregory R. Gipson
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Biochemistry, and Microbiology, University of Cincinnati, 231 Albert Sabin Way ML 0524, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| | | | | | - Magdalena Czepnik
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Biochemistry, and Microbiology, University of Cincinnati, 231 Albert Sabin Way ML 0524, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| | | | - Rosa Grenha
- Acceleron Pharma, Inc., Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Maria Håkansson
- SARomics Biostructures AB, Medicon Village, Scheeletorget 1, 223 63, Lund, Sweden
| | - Derek T. Logan
- SARomics Biostructures AB, Medicon Village, Scheeletorget 1, 223 63, Lund, Sweden
| | | | - Dianne Sako
- Acceleron Pharma, Inc., Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | | | | | - Thomas B. Thompson
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Biochemistry, and Microbiology, University of Cincinnati, 231 Albert Sabin Way ML 0524, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
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19
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Esposito P, Picciotto D, Battaglia Y, Costigliolo F, Viazzi F, Verzola D. Myostatin: Basic biology to clinical application. Adv Clin Chem 2022; 106:181-234. [PMID: 35152972 DOI: 10.1016/bs.acc.2021.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Myostatin is a member of the transforming growth factor (TGF)-β superfamily. It is expressed by animal and human skeletal muscle cells where it limits muscle growth and promotes protein breakdown. Its effects are influenced by complex mechanisms including transcriptional and epigenetic regulation and modulation by extracellular binding proteins. Due to its actions in promoting muscle atrophy and cachexia, myostatin has been investigated as a promising therapeutic target to counteract muscle mass loss in experimental models and patients affected by different muscle-wasting conditions. Moreover, growing evidence indicates that myostatin, beyond to regulate skeletal muscle growth, may have a role in many physiologic and pathologic processes, such as obesity, insulin resistance, cardiovascular and chronic kidney disease. In this chapter, we review myostatin biology, including intracellular and extracellular regulatory pathways, and the role of myostatin in modulating physiologic processes, such as muscle growth and aging. Moreover, we discuss the most relevant experimental and clinical evidence supporting the extra-muscle effects of myostatin. Finally, we consider the main strategies developed and tested to inhibit myostatin in clinical trials and discuss the limits and future perspectives of the research on myostatin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pasquale Esposito
- Clinica Nefrologica, Dialisi, Trapianto, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa and IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy.
| | - Daniela Picciotto
- Clinica Nefrologica, Dialisi, Trapianto, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa and IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Yuri Battaglia
- Nephrology and Dialysis Unit, St. Anna University Hospital, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Francesca Costigliolo
- Clinica Nefrologica, Dialisi, Trapianto, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa and IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Francesca Viazzi
- Clinica Nefrologica, Dialisi, Trapianto, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa and IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Daniela Verzola
- Clinica Nefrologica, Dialisi, Trapianto, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa and IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
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20
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Li J, Fredericks M, Cannell M, Wang K, Sako D, Maguire MC, Grenha R, Liharska K, Krishnan L, Bloom T, Belcheva EP, Martinez PA, Castonguay R, Keates S, Alexander MJ, Choi H, Grinberg AV, Pearsall RS, Oh P, Kumar R, Suragani RN. ActRIIB:ALK4-Fc alleviates muscle dysfunction and comorbidities in murine models of neuromuscular disorders. J Clin Invest 2021; 131:138634. [PMID: 33586684 DOI: 10.1172/jci138634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 12/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Patients with neuromuscular disorders suffer from a lack of treatment options for skeletal muscle weakness and disease comorbidities. Here, we introduce as a potential therapeutic agent a heterodimeric ligand-trapping fusion protein, ActRIIB:ALK4-Fc, which comprises extracellular domains of activin-like kinase 4 (ALK4) and activin receptor type IIB (ActRIIB), a naturally occurring pair of type I and II receptors belonging to the TGF-β superfamily. By surface plasmon resonance (SPR), ActRIIB:ALK4-Fc exhibited a ligand binding profile distinctly different from that of its homodimeric variant ActRIIB-Fc, sequestering ActRIIB ligands known to inhibit muscle growth but not trapping the vascular regulatory ligand bone morphogenetic protein 9 (BMP9). ActRIIB:ALK4-Fc and ActRIIB-Fc administered to mice exerted differential effects - concordant with SPR results - on vessel outgrowth in a retinal explant assay. ActRIIB:ALK4-Fc induced a systemic increase in muscle mass and function in wild-type mice and in murine models of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and disuse atrophy. Importantly, ActRIIB:ALK4-Fc improved neuromuscular junction abnormalities in murine models of DMD and presymptomatic ALS and alleviated acute muscle fibrosis in a DMD model. Furthermore, in combination therapy ActRIIB:ALK4-Fc increased the efficacy of antisense oligonucleotide M12-PMO on dystrophin expression and skeletal muscle endurance in an aged DMD model. ActRIIB:ALK4-Fc shows promise as a therapeutic agent, alone or in combination with dystrophin rescue therapy, to alleviate muscle weakness and comorbidities of neuromuscular disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Li
- Acceleron Pharma Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | | | - Kathryn Wang
- Acceleron Pharma Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Dianne Sako
- Acceleron Pharma Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Rosa Grenha
- Acceleron Pharma Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | | | - Troy Bloom
- Acceleron Pharma Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | | | | | - Sarah Keates
- Acceleron Pharma Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Hyunwoo Choi
- Department of Neurobiology, Barrow Neurological Institute, Phoenix, Arizona, USA
| | | | | | - Paul Oh
- Department of Neurobiology, Barrow Neurological Institute, Phoenix, Arizona, USA
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21
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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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22
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Masbuchin AN, Rohman MS, Liu PY. Role of Glycosylation in Vascular Calcification. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:9829. [PMID: 34575990 PMCID: PMC8469761 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22189829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Revised: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Glycosylation is an important step in post-translational protein modification. Altered glycosylation results in an abnormality that causes diseases such as malignancy and cardiovascular diseases. Recent emerging evidence highlights the importance of glycosylation in vascular calcification. Two major types of glycosylation, N-glycosylation and O-glycosylation, are involved in vascular calcification. Other glycosylation mechanisms, which polymerize the glycosaminoglycan (GAG) chain onto protein, resulting in proteoglycan (PG), also have an impact on vascular calcification. This paper discusses the role of glycosylation in vascular calcification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ainun Nizar Masbuchin
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 70457, Taiwan;
- Department of Cardiology and Vascular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Brawijaya, Malang 65111, Indonesia;
| | - Mohammad Saifur Rohman
- Department of Cardiology and Vascular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Brawijaya, Malang 65111, Indonesia;
| | - Ping-Yen Liu
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 70457, Taiwan;
- Division of Cardiology, Internal Medicine, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 70403, Taiwan
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23
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Sánchez-Trasviña C, Flores-Gatica M, Enriquez-Ochoa D, Rito-Palomares M, Mayolo-Deloisa K. Purification of Modified Therapeutic Proteins Available on the Market: An Analysis of Chromatography-Based Strategies. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2021; 9:717326. [PMID: 34490225 PMCID: PMC8417561 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2021.717326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Proteins, which have inherent biorecognition properties, have long been used as therapeutic agents for the treatment of a wide variety of clinical indications. Protein modification through covalent attachment to different moieties improves the therapeutic's pharmacokinetic properties, affinity, stability, confers protection against proteolytic degradation, and increases circulation half-life. Nowadays, several modified therapeutic proteins, including PEGylated, Fc-fused, lipidated, albumin-fused, and glycosylated proteins have obtained regulatory approval for commercialization. During its manufacturing, the purification steps of the therapeutic agent are decisive to ensure the quality, effectiveness, potency, and safety of the final product. Due to the robustness, selectivity, and high resolution of chromatographic methods, these are recognized as the gold standard in the downstream processing of therapeutic proteins. Moreover, depending on the modification strategy, the protein will suffer different physicochemical changes, which must be considered to define a purification approach. This review aims to deeply analyze the purification methods employed for modified therapeutic proteins that are currently available on the market, to understand why the selected strategies were successful. Emphasis is placed on chromatographic methods since they govern the purification processes within the pharmaceutical industry. Furthermore, to discuss how the modification type strongly influences the purification strategy, the purification processes of three different modified versions of coagulation factor IX are contrasted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Calef Sánchez-Trasviña
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, Escuela de Ingeniería y Ciencias, Centro de Biotecnología-FEMSA, Monterrey, Mexico
| | - Miguel Flores-Gatica
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, Escuela de Ingeniería y Ciencias, Centro de Biotecnología-FEMSA, Monterrey, Mexico
| | - Daniela Enriquez-Ochoa
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, Escuela de Ingeniería y Ciencias, Centro de Biotecnología-FEMSA, Monterrey, Mexico
| | - Marco Rito-Palomares
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, Monterrey, Mexico
| | - Karla Mayolo-Deloisa
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, Escuela de Ingeniería y Ciencias, Centro de Biotecnología-FEMSA, Monterrey, Mexico
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Sinha S, Pereira-Reis J, Guerra A, Rivella S, Duarte D. The Role of Iron in Benign and Malignant Hematopoiesis. Antioxid Redox Signal 2021; 35:415-432. [PMID: 33231101 PMCID: PMC8328043 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2020.8155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Revised: 10/26/2020] [Accepted: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Significance: Iron is an essential element required for sustaining a normal healthy life. However, an excess amount of iron in the bloodstream and tissue generates toxic hydroxyl radicals through Fenton reactions. Henceforth, a balance in iron concentration is extremely important to maintain cellular homeostasis in both normal hematopoiesis and erythropoiesis. Iron deficiency or iron overload can impact hematopoiesis and is associated with many hematological diseases. Recent Advances: The mechanisms of action of key iron regulators such as erythroferrone and the discovery of new drugs, such as ACE-536/luspatercept, are of potential interest to treat hematological disorders, such as β-thalassemia. New therapies targeting inflammation-induced ineffective erythropoiesis are also in progress. Furthermore, emerging evidences support differential interactions between iron and its cellular antioxidant responses of hematopoietic and neighboring stromal cells. Both iron and its systemic regulator, such as hepcidin, play a significant role in regulating erythropoiesis. Critical Issues: Significant pre-clinical studies are on the way and new drugs targeting iron metabolism have been recently approved or are undergoing clinical trials to treat pathological conditions with impaired erythropoiesis such as myelodysplastic syndromes or β-thalassemia. Future Directions: Future studies should explore how iron regulates hematopoiesis in both benign and malignant conditions. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 35, 415-432.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sayantani Sinha
- Division of Hematology, Department of Pediatrics, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Joana Pereira-Reis
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Amaliris Guerra
- Division of Hematology, Department of Pediatrics, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Stefano Rivella
- Division of Hematology, Department of Pediatrics, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Cell and Molecular Biology Affinity Group (CAMB), University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Raymond G. Perelman Center for Cellular and Molecular Therapeutics, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Penn Center for Musculoskeletal Disorders, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Delfim Duarte
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Onco-Hematology, Instituto Português de Oncologia (IPO), Porto, Portugal
- Unit of Biochemistry, Department of Biomedicine, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade do Porto (FMUP), Porto, Portugal
- Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (P.CCC), Porto, Portugal
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25
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Taher AT, Cappellini MD. Luspatercept for β-thalassemia: beyond red blood cell transfusions. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2021; 21:1363-1371. [PMID: 34404288 DOI: 10.1080/14712598.2021.1968825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Red blood cell transfusions and iron chelation therapy are the cornerstone of treatment for β-thalassemia, with allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and gene therapy offering further disease-management options for eligible patients. With up to 90% of severe cases of β-thalassemia occurring in resource-constrained countries, and estimates indicating that 22,500 deaths occur annually as a direct consequence of undertransfusion, provision of adequate treatment remains a major issue. AREAS COVERED In this review, we provide an overview of luspatercept, a first-in-class erythroid maturation agent, and present the available clinical data related to the treatment of β-thalassemia. EXPERT OPINION The recent approval of luspatercept offers a new, long-term therapeutic option for adult patients with transfusion-dependent β-thalassemia to reduce red blood cell transfusion burden, anemia, and iron overload.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali T Taher
- Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
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26
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Smad2/3 Activation Regulates Smad1/5/8 Signaling via a Negative Feedback Loop to Inhibit 3T3-L1 Adipogenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22168472. [PMID: 34445177 PMCID: PMC8395197 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22168472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Revised: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Adipose tissues (AT) expand in response to energy surplus through adipocyte hypertrophy and hyperplasia. The latter, also known as adipogenesis, is a process by which multipotent precursors differentiate to form mature adipocytes. This process is directed by developmental cues that include members of the TGF-β family. Our goal here was to elucidate, using the 3T3-L1 adipogenesis model, how TGF-β family growth factors and inhibitors regulate adipocyte development. We show that ligands of the Activin and TGF-β families, several ligand traps, and the SMAD1/5/8 signaling inhibitor LDN-193189 profoundly suppressed 3T3-L1 adipogenesis. Strikingly, anti-adipogenic traps and ligands engaged the same mechanism of action involving the simultaneous activation of SMAD2/3 and inhibition of SMAD1/5/8 signaling. This effect was rescued by the SMAD2/3 signaling inhibitor SB-431542. By contrast, although LDN-193189 also suppressed SMAD1/5/8 signaling and adipogenesis, its effect could not be rescued by SB-431542. Collectively, these findings reveal the fundamental role of SMAD1/5/8 for 3T3-L1 adipogenesis, and potentially identify a negative feedback loop that links SMAD2/3 activation with SMAD1/5/8 inhibition in adipogenic precursors.
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Makis A, Voskaridou E, Papassotiriou I, Hatzimichael E. Novel Therapeutic Advances in β-Thalassemia. BIOLOGY 2021; 10:biology10060546. [PMID: 34207028 PMCID: PMC8235056 DOI: 10.3390/biology10060546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2021] [Revised: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Simple Summary Beta-thalassemia (β-thalassemia) is an autosomal recessive inherited disorder that causes decreased production of hemoglobin. Ineffective erythropoiesis and excess iron deposition are the most significant pathophysiological problems. Chronic red blood cell transfusions along with control of iron overload are the main principles of treatment. Yet, the patients have a problematic quality of life. Recently, novel therapies have emerged based on better knowledge of the pathophysiology of the disease. Aiming at ineffective erythropoiesis through the TGF-β ligand traps, such as luspatercept, has been shown to reduce the transfusion burden. Therapeutic approaches aiming at the iron metabolism mechanisms as well as the pathway of the production of erythroid cyclic guanosine monophosphate are being used in clinical trials with encouraging results. Significant improvements in the technique of hemopoietic stem cell transplantation have been accomplished, with a focus on the improvement of the conditioning regimen and the donor selection. Gene therapy has exhibited remarkable advances using lentiviral β-globin gene insertion techniques or gene editing platforms that target the suppression of γ-globin repressors. All these approaches will have a positive result in the quality of life of thalassemia patients. Abstract The main characteristic of the pathophysiology of β-thalassemia is reduced β-globin chain production. The inevitable imbalance in the α/β-globin ratio and α-globin accumulation lead to oxidative stress in the erythroid lineage, apoptosis, and ineffective erythropoiesis. The result is compensatory hematopoietic expansion and impaired hepcidin production that causes increased intestinal iron absorption and progressive iron overload. Chronic hemolysis and red blood cell transfusions also contribute to iron tissue deposition. A better understanding of the underlying mechanisms led to the detection of new curative or “disease-modifying” therapeutic options. Substantial evolvement has been made in allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation with current clinical trials investigating new condition regimens as well as different donors and stem cell source options. Gene therapy has also moved forward, and phase 2 clinical trials with the use of β-globin insertion techniques have recently been successfully completed leading to approval for use in transfusion-dependent patients. Genetic and epigenetic manipulation of the γ- or β-globin gene have entered the clinical trial setting. Agents such as TGF-β ligand traps and pyruvate kinase activators, which reduce the ineffective erythropoiesis, have been tested in clinical trials with favorable results. One TGF-β ligand trap, luspatercept, has been approved for use in adults with transfusion-dependent β-thalassemia. The induction of HbF with the phosphodiesterase 9 inhibitor IMR-687, which increase cyclic guanosine monophosphate, is currently being tested. Another therapeutic approach is to target the dysregulation of iron homeostasis, using, for example, hepcidin agonists (inhibitors of TMPRSS6 and minihepcidins) or ferroportin inhibitors (VIT-2763). This review provides an update on the novel therapeutic options that are presently in development at the clinical level in β-thalassemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandros Makis
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ioannina, Stavros Niarchos Avenue, 45110 Ioannina, Greece
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +30-2651099793
| | - Ersi Voskaridou
- Centre of Excellence in Rare Haematological Diseases-Haemoglobinopathies, “Laikon” General Hospital, 11527 Athens, Greece;
| | - Ioannis Papassotiriou
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, “Aghia Sophia” Children’s Hospital, 11527 Athens, Greece;
| | - Eleftheria Hatzimichael
- Department of Hematology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ioannina, Stavros Niarchos Avenue, 45110 Ioannina, Greece;
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28
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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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29
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Lee H, Kim YI, Nirmala FS, Jeong HY, Seo HD, Ha TY, Jung CH, Ahn J. Chrysanthemum zawadskil Herbich attenuates dexamethasone-induced muscle atrophy through the regulation of proteostasis and mitochondrial function. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 136:111226. [PMID: 33485066 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.111226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2020] [Revised: 12/29/2020] [Accepted: 12/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Chrysanthemum zawadskii Herbich (CZH) is used in traditional medicine to treat inflammatory diseases and diabetes. However, the effects of CZH on muscle wasting remains to be studied. Here, we investigated the effect of CZH on dexamethasone (DEX), a synthetic glucocorticoid, induced muscle atrophy. To examine the effect of CZH on muscle atrophy, C2C12 myotubes were co-treated with DEX and CZH for 24 h. The treatment with CZH prevented DEX-induced myotube atrophy in a dose-dependent manner. CZH inhibited the DEX-induced decrease of the MHC isoforms and the upregulation of atrogin-1 and MuRF1 in C2C12 differentiated cells. C57BL/6 mice were supplemented with 0.1 % CZH for 8 weeks, with DEX-induced muscle atrophy stimulated in the last 3 weeks. In the mice, CZH supplementation effectively reversed DEX-induced skeletal muscle atrophy and increased the exercise capacity of the mice through the inhibition of glucocorticoid receptor translocation. Additionally, we observed that DEX-evoked impaired proteostasis was ameliorated via the Akt/mTOR pathway. CZH also prevented the DEX-induced decrease in the mitochondrial respiration. HPLC analysis demonstrated the highest concentration of acacetin-7-O-β-d-rutinoside (AR) among 4 compounds. Moreover, AR, a functional compound of CZH, prevented DEX-evoked muscle atrophy. Thus, we suggest that CZH could be a potential therapeutic candidate against muscle atrophy and AR is the main functional compound of CZH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyunjung Lee
- Research Group of Natural Material and Metabolism, Korea Food Research Institute, Wanju, South Korea
| | - Young In Kim
- Research Group of Natural Material and Metabolism, Korea Food Research Institute, Wanju, South Korea; Department of Food Science and Technology, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju-si, South Korea
| | - Farida S Nirmala
- Research Group of Natural Material and Metabolism, Korea Food Research Institute, Wanju, South Korea; Department of Food Biotechnology, University of Science and Technology, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Hang Yeon Jeong
- Research Group of Natural Material and Metabolism, Korea Food Research Institute, Wanju, South Korea
| | - Hyo-Deok Seo
- Research Group of Natural Material and Metabolism, Korea Food Research Institute, Wanju, South Korea
| | - Tae Youl Ha
- Research Group of Natural Material and Metabolism, Korea Food Research Institute, Wanju, South Korea; Department of Food Biotechnology, University of Science and Technology, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Chang Hwa Jung
- Research Group of Natural Material and Metabolism, Korea Food Research Institute, Wanju, South Korea; Department of Food Biotechnology, University of Science and Technology, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Jiyun Ahn
- Research Group of Natural Material and Metabolism, Korea Food Research Institute, Wanju, South Korea; Department of Food Biotechnology, University of Science and Technology, Daejeon, South Korea.
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30
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Parisi S, Finelli C, Fazio A, De Stefano A, Mongiorgi S, Ratti S, Cappellini A, Billi AM, Cocco L, Follo MY, Manzoli L. Clinical and Molecular Insights in Erythropoiesis Regulation of Signal Transduction Pathways in Myelodysplastic Syndromes and β-Thalassemia. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22020827. [PMID: 33467674 PMCID: PMC7830211 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22020827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Erythropoiesis regulation is essential in normal physiology and pathology, particularly in myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) and β-thalassemia. Several signaling transduction processes, including those regulated by inositides, are implicated in erythropoiesis, and the latest MDS or β-thalassemia preclinical and clinical studies are now based on their regulation. Among others, the main pathways involved are those regulated by transforming growth factor (TGF)-β, which negatively regulates erythrocyte differentiation and maturation, and erythropoietin (EPO), which acts on the early-stage erythropoiesis. Also small mother against decapentaplegic (SMAD) signaling molecules play a role in pathology, and activin receptor ligand traps are being investigated for future clinical applications. Even inositide-dependent signaling, which is important in the regulation of cell proliferation and differentiation, is specifically associated with erythropoiesis, with phospholipase C (PLC) and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) as key players that are becoming increasingly important as new promising therapeutic targets. Additionally, Roxadustat, a new erythropoiesis stimulating agent targeting hypoxia inducible factor (HIF), is under clinical development. Here, we review the role and function of the above-mentioned signaling pathways, and we describe the state of the art and new perspectives of erythropoiesis regulation in MDS and β-thalassemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Parisi
- Department of Oncology and Hematology, IRCCS-Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (S.P.); (C.F.)
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine DIMES, Institute of Hematology “L. and A. Seràgnoli”, University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Carlo Finelli
- Department of Oncology and Hematology, IRCCS-Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (S.P.); (C.F.)
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine DIMES, Institute of Hematology “L. and A. Seràgnoli”, University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Antonietta Fazio
- Cellular Signalling Laboratory, Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (A.F.); (A.D.S.); (S.M.); (S.R.); (A.C.); (A.M.B.); (L.C.); (L.M.)
| | - Alessia De Stefano
- Cellular Signalling Laboratory, Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (A.F.); (A.D.S.); (S.M.); (S.R.); (A.C.); (A.M.B.); (L.C.); (L.M.)
| | - Sara Mongiorgi
- Cellular Signalling Laboratory, Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (A.F.); (A.D.S.); (S.M.); (S.R.); (A.C.); (A.M.B.); (L.C.); (L.M.)
| | - Stefano Ratti
- Cellular Signalling Laboratory, Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (A.F.); (A.D.S.); (S.M.); (S.R.); (A.C.); (A.M.B.); (L.C.); (L.M.)
| | - Alessandra Cappellini
- Cellular Signalling Laboratory, Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (A.F.); (A.D.S.); (S.M.); (S.R.); (A.C.); (A.M.B.); (L.C.); (L.M.)
| | - Anna Maria Billi
- Cellular Signalling Laboratory, Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (A.F.); (A.D.S.); (S.M.); (S.R.); (A.C.); (A.M.B.); (L.C.); (L.M.)
| | - Lucio Cocco
- Cellular Signalling Laboratory, Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (A.F.); (A.D.S.); (S.M.); (S.R.); (A.C.); (A.M.B.); (L.C.); (L.M.)
| | - Matilde Y. Follo
- Cellular Signalling Laboratory, Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (A.F.); (A.D.S.); (S.M.); (S.R.); (A.C.); (A.M.B.); (L.C.); (L.M.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Lucia Manzoli
- Cellular Signalling Laboratory, Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (A.F.); (A.D.S.); (S.M.); (S.R.); (A.C.); (A.M.B.); (L.C.); (L.M.)
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31
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Bernstein LR, Treff NR. Editorial: Causes of Oocyte Aneuploidy and Infertility in Advanced Maternal Age and Emerging Therapeutic Approaches. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:652990. [PMID: 33708177 PMCID: PMC7940751 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.652990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Lori R. Bernstein
- Pregmama, LLC, Gaithersburg, MD, United States
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine, College Station, TX, United States
- *Correspondence: Lori R. Bernstein,
| | - Nathan R. Treff
- Genomic Prediction Inc., North Brunswick, NJ, United States
- Genomic Prediction Clinical Laboratory, North Brunswick, NJ, United States
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32
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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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33
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Martinez-Hackert E, Sundan A, Holien T. Receptor binding competition: A paradigm for regulating TGF-β family action. Cytokine Growth Factor Rev 2020; 57:39-54. [PMID: 33087301 DOI: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2020.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 09/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The transforming growth factor (TGF)-β family is a group of structurally related, multifunctional growth factors, or ligands that are crucially involved in the development, regulation, and maintenance of animal tissues. In humans, the family counts over 33 members. These secreted ligands typically form multimeric complexes with two type I and two type II receptors to activate one of two distinct signal transduction branches. A striking feature of the family is its promiscuity, i.e., many ligands bind the same receptors and compete with each other for binding to these receptors. Although several explanations for this feature have been considered, its functional significance has remained puzzling. However, several recent reports have promoted the idea that ligand-receptor binding promiscuity and competition are critical features of the TGF-β family that provide an essential regulating function. Namely, they allow a cell to read and process multi-ligand inputs. This capability may be necessary for producing subtle, distinctive, or adaptive responses and, possibly, for facilitating developmental plasticity. Here, we review the molecular basis for ligand competition, with emphasis on molecular structures and binding affinities. We give an overview of methods that were used to establish experimentally ligand competition. Finally, we discuss how the concept of ligand competition may be fundamentally tied to human physiology, disease, and therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik Martinez-Hackert
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA.
| | - Anders Sundan
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, NTNU - Norwegian University of Science and Technology, 7491, Trondheim, Norway; Centre of Molecular Inflammation Research (CEMIR), Norwegian University of Science and Technology, 7491, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Toril Holien
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, NTNU - Norwegian University of Science and Technology, 7491, Trondheim, Norway; Department of Hematology, St. Olav's University Hospital, 7030, Trondheim, Norway.
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34
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Lee SJ, Lehar A, Meir JU, Koch C, Morgan A, Warren LE, Rydzik R, Youngstrom DW, Chandok H, George J, Gogain J, Michaud M, Stoklasek TA, Liu Y, Germain-Lee EL. Targeting myostatin/activin A protects against skeletal muscle and bone loss during spaceflight. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2020; 117:23942-23951. [PMID: 32900939 PMCID: PMC7519220 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2014716117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Among the physiological consequences of extended spaceflight are loss of skeletal muscle and bone mass. One signaling pathway that plays an important role in maintaining muscle and bone homeostasis is that regulated by the secreted signaling proteins, myostatin (MSTN) and activin A. Here, we used both genetic and pharmacological approaches to investigate the effect of targeting MSTN/activin A signaling in mice that were sent to the International Space Station. Wild type mice lost significant muscle and bone mass during the 33 d spent in microgravity. Muscle weights of Mstn-/- mice, which are about twice those of wild type mice, were largely maintained during spaceflight. Systemic inhibition of MSTN/activin A signaling using a soluble form of the activin type IIB receptor (ACVR2B), which can bind each of these ligands, led to dramatic increases in both muscle and bone mass, with effects being comparable in ground and flight mice. Exposure to microgravity and treatment with the soluble receptor each led to alterations in numerous signaling pathways, which were reflected in changes in levels of key signaling components in the blood as well as their RNA expression levels in muscle and bone. These findings have implications for therapeutic strategies to combat the concomitant muscle and bone loss occurring in people afflicted with disuse atrophy on Earth as well as in astronauts in space, especially during prolonged missions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Se-Jin Lee
- The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT 06032;
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT 06030
| | - Adam Lehar
- The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT 06032
| | - Jessica U Meir
- The National Aeronautics and Space Administration, NASA Johnson Space Center, Houston, TX 77058
| | - Christina Koch
- The National Aeronautics and Space Administration, NASA Johnson Space Center, Houston, TX 77058
| | - Andrew Morgan
- The National Aeronautics and Space Administration, NASA Johnson Space Center, Houston, TX 77058
| | - Lara E Warren
- Center for the Advancement of Science in Space, Houston, TX 77058
| | - Renata Rydzik
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT 06030
| | - Daniel W Youngstrom
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT 06030
| | | | - Joshy George
- The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT 06032
| | | | - Michael Michaud
- The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT 06032
| | | | - Yewei Liu
- The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT 06032
| | - Emily L Germain-Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT 06030
- Connecticut Children's Center for Rare Bone Disorders, Farmington, CT 06032
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35
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Verma A, Suragani RN, Aluri S, Shah N, Bhagat TD, Alexander MJ, Komrokji R, Kumar R. Biological basis for efficacy of activin receptor ligand traps in myelodysplastic syndromes. J Clin Invest 2020; 130:582-589. [PMID: 31961337 DOI: 10.1172/jci133678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Signaling by the TGF-β superfamily is important in the regulation of hematopoiesis and is dysregulated in myelodysplastic syndromes (MDSs), contributing to ineffective hematopoiesis and clinical cytopenias. TGF-β, activins, and growth differentiation factors exert inhibitory effects on red cell formation by activating canonical SMAD2/3 pathway signaling. In this Review, we summarize evidence that overactivation of SMAD2/3 signaling pathways in MDSs causes anemia due to impaired erythroid maturation. We also describe the basis for biological activity of activin receptor ligand traps, novel fusion proteins such as luspatercept that are promising as erythroid maturation agents to alleviate anemia and related comorbidities in MDSs and other conditions characterized by impaired erythroid maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amit Verma
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York, USA
| | | | - Srinivas Aluri
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Nishi Shah
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Tushar D Bhagat
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York, USA
| | | | | | - Ravi Kumar
- Acceleron Pharma, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
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36
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Wang J, Zhang K, Hou X, Yue W, Yang H, Chen X, Wang J, Wang C. Molecular characteristic of activin receptor IIB and its functions in growth and nutrient regulation in Eriocheir sinensis. PeerJ 2020; 8:e9673. [PMID: 32953259 PMCID: PMC7473049 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.9673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2020] [Accepted: 07/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Activin receptor IIB (ActRIIB) is a serine/threonine-kinase receptor binding with transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) superfamily ligands to participate in the regulation of muscle mass in vertebrates. However, its structure and function in crustaceans remain unknown. In this study, the ActRIIB gene in Eriocheir sinensis (Es-ActRIIB) was cloned and obtained with a 1,683 bp open reading frame, which contains the characteristic domains of TGF-β type II receptor superfamily, encoding 560 amino acids. The mRNA expression of Es-ActRIIB was the highest in hepatopancreas and the lowest in muscle at each molting stage. After injection of Es-ActRIIB double-stranded RNA during one molting cycle, the RNA interference (RNAi) group showed higher weight gain rate, higher specific growth rate, and lower hepatopancreas index compared with the control group. Meanwhile, the RNAi group displayed a significantly increased content of hydrolytic amino acid in both hepatopancreas and muscle. The RNAi group also displayed slightly higher contents of saturated fatty acid and monounsaturated fatty acid but significantly decreased levels of polyunsaturated fatty acid compared with the control group. After RNAi on Es-ActRIIB, the mRNA expressions of five ActRIIB signaling pathway genes showed that ActRI and forkhead box O (FoxO) were downregulated in hepatopancreas and muscle, but no significant expression differences were found in small mother against decapentaplegic (SMAD) 3, SMAD4 and mammalian target of rapamycin. The mRNA expression s of three lipid metabolism-related genes (carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1β (CPT1β), fatty acid synthase, and fatty acid elongation) were significantly downregulated in both hepatopancreas and muscle with the exception of CPT1β in muscles. These results indicate that ActRIIB is a functionally conservative negative regulator in growth mass, and protein and lipid metabolism could be affected by inhibiting ActRIIB signaling in crustacean.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fisheries Germplasm Resources, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Fisheries Science Education / Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Aquaculture, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, China
| | - Kaijun Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fisheries Germplasm Resources, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Fisheries Science Education / Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Aquaculture, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xin Hou
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fisheries Germplasm Resources, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Fisheries Science Education / Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Aquaculture, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wucheng Yue
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fisheries Germplasm Resources, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Fisheries Science Education / Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Aquaculture, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, China
| | - He Yang
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fisheries Germplasm Resources, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Fisheries Science Education / Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Aquaculture, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaowen Chen
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fisheries Germplasm Resources, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Fisheries Science Education / Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Aquaculture, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jun Wang
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fisheries Germplasm Resources, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Fisheries Science Education / Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Aquaculture, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chenghui Wang
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fisheries Germplasm Resources, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Fisheries Science Education / Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Aquaculture, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, China
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37
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Guignard L, Fiúza UM, Leggio B, Laussu J, Faure E, Michelin G, Biasuz K, Hufnagel L, Malandain G, Godin C, Lemaire P. Contact area-dependent cell communication and the morphological invariance of ascidian embryogenesis. Science 2020; 369:369/6500/eaar5663. [PMID: 32646972 DOI: 10.1126/science.aar5663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2019] [Accepted: 04/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Marine invertebrate ascidians display embryonic reproducibility: Their early embryonic cell lineages are considered invariant and are conserved between distantly related species, despite rapid genomic divergence. Here, we address the drivers of this reproducibility. We used light-sheet imaging and automated cell segmentation and tracking procedures to systematically quantify the behavior of individual cells every 2 minutes during Phallusia mammillata embryogenesis. Interindividual reproducibility was observed down to the area of individual cell contacts. We found tight links between the reproducibility of embryonic geometries and asymmetric cell divisions, controlled by differential sister cell inductions. We combined modeling and experimental manipulations to show that the area of contact between signaling and responding cells is a key determinant of cell communication. Our work establishes the geometric control of embryonic inductions as an alternative to classical morphogen gradients and suggests that the range of cell signaling sets the scale at which embryonic reproducibility is observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Léo Guignard
- CRBM, Université de Montpellier, CNRS, 34293 Montpellier, France.,Virtual Plants, Université de Montpellier, CIRAD, INRA, Inria, 34095 Montpellier, France.,Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA 20147, USA
| | - Ulla-Maj Fiúza
- CRBM, Université de Montpellier, CNRS, 34293 Montpellier, France.,Cell Biology and Biophysics Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Bruno Leggio
- CRBM, Université de Montpellier, CNRS, 34293 Montpellier, France.,Virtual Plants, Université de Montpellier, CIRAD, INRA, Inria, 34095 Montpellier, France.,Laboratoire Reproduction et Développement des Plantes, Université de Lyon, ENS de Lyon, UCB Lyon 1, CNRS, INRA, Inria, 69342 Lyon, France
| | - Julien Laussu
- CRBM, Université de Montpellier, CNRS, 34293 Montpellier, France
| | - Emmanuel Faure
- CRBM, Université de Montpellier, CNRS, 34293 Montpellier, France.,Virtual Plants, Université de Montpellier, CIRAD, INRA, Inria, 34095 Montpellier, France.,Institut de Recherche en Informatique de Toulouse (IRIT), Universités Toulouse I et III, CNRS, INPT, ENSEEIHT, 31071 Toulouse, France
| | - Gaël Michelin
- Morpheme, Université Côte d'Azur, Inria, CNRS, I3S, France
| | - Kilian Biasuz
- CRBM, Université de Montpellier, CNRS, 34293 Montpellier, France
| | - Lars Hufnagel
- Cell Biology and Biophysics Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany.
| | | | - Christophe Godin
- Virtual Plants, Université de Montpellier, CIRAD, INRA, Inria, 34095 Montpellier, France. .,Laboratoire Reproduction et Développement des Plantes, Université de Lyon, ENS de Lyon, UCB Lyon 1, CNRS, INRA, Inria, 69342 Lyon, France
| | - Patrick Lemaire
- CRBM, Université de Montpellier, CNRS, 34293 Montpellier, France.
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38
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Zhao Y, Wu Z, Chanal M, Guillaumond F, Goehrig D, Bachy S, Principe M, Ziverec A, Flaman JM, Collin G, Tomasini R, Pasternack A, Ritvos O, Vasseur S, Bernard D, Hennino A, Bertolino P. Oncogene-Induced Senescence Limits the Progression of Pancreatic Neoplasia through Production of Activin A. Cancer Res 2020; 80:3359-3371. [PMID: 32554750 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-19-3763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2019] [Revised: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 06/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a deadly and aggressive cancer. Understanding mechanisms that drive preneoplastic pancreatic lesions is necessary to improve early diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. Mutations and inactivation of activin-like kinase (ALK4) have been demonstrated to favor PDAC onset. Surprisingly, little is known regarding the ligands that drive ALK4 signaling in pancreatic cancer or how this signaling pathway limits the initiation of neoplastic lesions. In this study, data mining and histologic analyses performed on human and mouse tumor tissues revealed that activin A is the major ALK4 ligand that drives PDAC initiation. Activin A, which is absent in normal acinar cells, was strongly induced during acinar-to-ductal metaplasia (ADM), which was promoted by pancreatitis or the activation of KrasG12D in mice. Activin A expression during ADM was associated with the cellular senescence program that is induced in precursor lesions. Blocking activin A signaling through the use of a soluble form of activin receptor IIB (sActRIIB-Fc) and ALK4 knockout in mice expressing KrasG12D resulted in reduced senescence associated with decreased expression of p21, reduced phosphorylation of H2A histone family member X (H2AX), and increased proliferation. Thus, this study indicates that activin A acts as a protective senescence-associated secretory phenotype factor produced by Kras-induced senescent cells during ADM, which limits the expansion and proliferation of pancreatic neoplastic lesions. SIGNIFICANCE: This study identifies activin A to be a beneficial, senescence-secreted factor induced in pancreatic preneoplastic lesions, which limits their proliferation and ultimately slows progression into pancreatic cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yajie Zhao
- Cancer Research Centre of Lyon, INSERM U1052, CNRS UMR5286, Claude Bernard University, Lyon, France.,Department of Geriatrics, Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jia Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhichong Wu
- Cancer Research Centre of Lyon, INSERM U1052, CNRS UMR5286, Claude Bernard University, Lyon, France
| | - Marie Chanal
- Cancer Research Centre of Lyon, INSERM U1052, CNRS UMR5286, Claude Bernard University, Lyon, France
| | - Fabienne Guillaumond
- Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Marseille, Unité 1068, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Marseille, France.,Institut Paoli-Calmettes, Marseille, France.,Unité Mixte de Recherche (UMR 7258), Centre national de la Recherche Scientifique, Marseille, France.,Université Aix-Marseille, Marseille, France
| | - Delphine Goehrig
- Cancer Research Centre of Lyon, INSERM U1052, CNRS UMR5286, Claude Bernard University, Lyon, France
| | - Sophie Bachy
- Cancer Research Centre of Lyon, INSERM U1052, CNRS UMR5286, Claude Bernard University, Lyon, France
| | - Moitza Principe
- Cancer Research Centre of Lyon, INSERM U1052, CNRS UMR5286, Claude Bernard University, Lyon, France
| | - Audrey Ziverec
- Cancer Research Centre of Lyon, INSERM U1052, CNRS UMR5286, Claude Bernard University, Lyon, France
| | - Jean-Michel Flaman
- Cancer Research Centre of Lyon, INSERM U1052, CNRS UMR5286, Claude Bernard University, Lyon, France
| | - Guillaume Collin
- Cancer Research Centre of Lyon, INSERM U1052, CNRS UMR5286, Claude Bernard University, Lyon, France
| | - Richard Tomasini
- Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Marseille, Unité 1068, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Marseille, France.,Institut Paoli-Calmettes, Marseille, France.,Unité Mixte de Recherche (UMR 7258), Centre national de la Recherche Scientifique, Marseille, France.,Université Aix-Marseille, Marseille, France
| | - Arja Pasternack
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Olli Ritvos
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Sophie Vasseur
- Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Marseille, Unité 1068, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Marseille, France.,Institut Paoli-Calmettes, Marseille, France.,Unité Mixte de Recherche (UMR 7258), Centre national de la Recherche Scientifique, Marseille, France.,Université Aix-Marseille, Marseille, France
| | - David Bernard
- Cancer Research Centre of Lyon, INSERM U1052, CNRS UMR5286, Claude Bernard University, Lyon, France
| | - Ana Hennino
- Cancer Research Centre of Lyon, INSERM U1052, CNRS UMR5286, Claude Bernard University, Lyon, France
| | - Philippe Bertolino
- Cancer Research Centre of Lyon, INSERM U1052, CNRS UMR5286, Claude Bernard University, Lyon, France.
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39
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Nguyen HQ, Iskenderian A, Ehmann D, Jasper P, Zhang Z, Rong H, Welty D, Narayanan R. Leveraging Quantitative Systems Pharmacology Approach into Development of Human Recombinant Follistatin Fusion Protein for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. CPT-PHARMACOMETRICS & SYSTEMS PHARMACOLOGY 2020; 9:342-352. [PMID: 32419339 PMCID: PMC7306616 DOI: 10.1002/psp4.12518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2020] [Accepted: 04/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Quantitative understanding about the dynamics of drug-target interactions in biological systems is essential, especially in rare disease programs with small patient populations. Follistatin, by antagonism of myostatin and activin, which are negative regulators of skeletal muscle and inflammatory response, is a promising therapeutic target for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. In this study, we constructed a quantitative systems pharmacology model for FS-EEE-Fc, a follistatin recombinant protein to investigate its efficacy from dual target binding, and, subsequently, to project its human efficacious dose. Based on model simulations, with an assumed efficacy threshold of 7-10% muscle volume increase, 3-5 mg/kg weekly dosing of FS-EEE-Fc is predicted to achieve meaningful clinical outcome. In conclusion, the study demonstrated an application of mechanism driven approach at early stage of a rare disease drug development to support lead compound optimization, enable human dose, pharmacokinetics, and efficacy predictions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hoa Q Nguyen
- Shire HGT, Inc. (a Takeda company), Lexington, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - David Ehmann
- Shire HGT, Inc. (a Takeda company), Lexington, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Paul Jasper
- RES Group, Inc., Needham, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Haojing Rong
- Kymera Therapeutics, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Devin Welty
- Nuventra Pharma Sciences, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
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40
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Szabó Z, Vainio L, Lin R, Swan J, Hulmi JJ, Rahtu-Korpela L, Serpi R, Laitinen M, Pasternack A, Ritvos O, Kerkelä R, Magga J. Systemic blockade of ACVR2B ligands attenuates muscle wasting in ischemic heart failure without compromising cardiac function. FASEB J 2020; 34:9911-9924. [PMID: 32427381 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201903074rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2019] [Revised: 04/28/2020] [Accepted: 04/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Signaling through activin receptors regulates skeletal muscle mass and activin receptor 2B (ACVR2B) ligands are also suggested to participate in myocardial infarction (MI) pathology in the heart. In this study, we determined the effect of systemic blockade of ACVR2B ligands on cardiac function in experimental MI, and defined its efficacy to revert muscle wasting in ischemic heart failure (HF). Mice were treated with soluble ACVR2B decoy receptor (ACVR2B-Fc) to study its effect on post-MI cardiac remodeling and on later HF. Cardiac function was determined with echocardiography, and myocardium analyzed with histological and biochemical methods for hypertrophy and fibrosis. Pharmacological blockade of ACVR2B ligands did not rescue the heart from ischemic injury or alleviate post-MI remodeling and ischemic HF. Collectively, ACVR2B-Fc did not affect cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, fibrosis, angiogenesis, nor factors associated with cardiac regeneration except modification of certain genes involved in metabolism or cell growth/survival. ACVR2B-Fc, however, was able to reduce skeletal muscle wasting in chronic ischemic HF, accompanied by reduced LC3II as a marker of autophagy and increased mTOR signaling and Cited4 expression as markers of physiological hypertrophy in quadriceps muscle. Our results ascertain pharmacological blockade of ACVR2B ligands as a possible therapy for skeletal muscle wasting in ischemic HF. Pharmacological blockade of ACVR2B ligands preserved myofiber size in ischemic HF, but did not compromise cardiac function nor exacerbate cardiac remodeling after ischemic injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoltán Szabó
- Research Unit of Biomedicine, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Laura Vainio
- Research Unit of Biomedicine, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Ruizhu Lin
- Research Unit of Biomedicine, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland.,Medical Research Center Oulu, Oulu University Hospital and University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Julia Swan
- Research Unit of Biomedicine, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland.,Biocenter Oulu, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Juha J Hulmi
- Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, Neuromuscular Research Center, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland.,Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Lea Rahtu-Korpela
- Research Unit of Biomedicine, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Raisa Serpi
- Biocenter Oulu, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland.,Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Mika Laitinen
- Department of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Department of Medicine, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Arja Pasternack
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Olli Ritvos
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Risto Kerkelä
- Research Unit of Biomedicine, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland.,Medical Research Center Oulu, Oulu University Hospital and University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Johanna Magga
- Research Unit of Biomedicine, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland.,Biocenter Oulu, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
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Rauner M, Seefried L, Shore E. Genetics and future therapy prospects of fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva. MED GENET-BERLIN 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s11825-019-00279-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP) is a rare autosomal dominant genetic condition characterised by progressive extra-skeletal bone formation in connective tissues. Over time, heterotopic ossification entombs patients within a second skeleton, drastically impairing their mobility and autonomy. Mutations in the ACVR1 gene have been identified as the cause of FOP. The single nucleotide missense mutation in ACVR1, c.617G > A, causes a single amino acid substitution, p.R206H, and is found in >90% of all patients. Heterotopic bone formation in FOP mimics embryonic skeletal endochondral ossification, with cartilage forming after fibroproliferative tissue condensation as an intermediate stage prior to osteogenesis and tissue ossification. In contrast to normal embryonic endochondral ossification, heterotopic ossification in FOP involves an inflammatory phase that precedes cartilage and bone formation. New insights into the mechanisms of action of heterotopic bone formation in FOP have led to the discovery of new potential treatment targets including inhibitors of BMP signalling, activin A inhibitors, and mTOR inhibitors. This review summarises the current knowledge on mutations causing FOP, as well as the molecular basis of heterotopic ossification and the therapeutic options that result from these discoveries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Rauner
- 1 grid.4488.0 0000 0001 2111 7257 Department of Medicine III & Center for Healthy Aging Technische Universität Dresden 01307 Dresden Germany
| | - Lothar Seefried
- 2 grid.8379.5 0000 0001 1958 8658 Department of Orthopedics University of Würzburg Würzburg Germany
| | - Eileen Shore
- 3 grid.25879.31 0000 0004 1936 8972 Departments of Orthopedics and Genetics, Perelman School of Medicine University of Pennsylvania Philadelphia USA
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Abstract
Bone Morphogenetic Proteins (BMPs) together with the Growth and Differentiation Factors (GDFs) form the largest subgroup of the Transforming Growth Factor (TGF)β family and represent secreted growth factors, which play an essential role in many aspects of cell communication in higher organisms. As morphogens they exert crucial functions during embryonal development, but are also involved in tissue homeostasis and regeneration in the adult organism. Their involvement in maintenance and repair processes of various tissues and organs made these growth factors highly interesting targets for novel pharmaceutical applications in regenerative medicine. A hallmark of the TGFβ protein family is that all of the more than 30 growth factors identified to date signal by binding and hetero-oligomerization of a very limited set of transmembrane serine-threonine kinase receptors, which can be classified into two subgroups termed type I and type II. Only seven type I and five type II receptors exist for all 30plus TGFβ members suggesting a pronounced ligand-receptor promiscuity. Indeed, many TGFβ ligands can bind the same type I or type II receptor and a particular receptor of either subtype can usually interact with and bind various TGFβ ligands. The possible consequence of this ligand-receptor promiscuity is further aggravated by the finding that canonical TGFβ signaling of all family members seemingly results in the activation of just two distinct signaling pathways, that is either SMAD2/3 or SMAD1/5/8 activation. While this would implicate that different ligands can assemble seemingly identical receptor complexes that activate just either one of two distinct pathways, in vitro and in vivo analyses show that the different TGFβ members exert quite distinct biological functions with high specificity. This discrepancy indicates that our current view of TGFβ signaling initiation just by hetero-oligomerization of two receptor subtypes and transduction via two main pathways in an on-off switch manner is too simplified. Hence, the signals generated by the various TGFβ members are either quantitatively interpreted using the subtle differences in their receptor-binding properties leading to ligand-specific modulation of the downstream signaling cascade or additional components participating in the signaling activation complex allow diversification of the encoded signal in a ligand-dependent manner at all cellular levels. In this review we focus on signal specification of TGFβ members, particularly of BMPs and GDFs addressing the role of binding affinities, specificities, and kinetics of individual ligand-receptor interactions for the assembly of specific receptor complexes with potentially distinct signaling properties.
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Molecular characterization and computational structure prediction of activin receptor type IIB in aseel and broiler chicken. Res Vet Sci 2019; 126:139-149. [PMID: 31491670 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2019.08.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2019] [Revised: 07/19/2019] [Accepted: 08/27/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The present study was formulated to characterize and comprehend the molecular structural characteristics of ACTRIIB receptor in Aseel and control broiler (CB) populations. The full length coding sequence (1539 bp) of the receptor was amplified, cloned, sequenced and analyzed using bioinformatic tools. The physico chemical properties of protein and structural features like secondary structure, solvent accessibility and disorder regions were computed. The 3D structure was predicted by I-TASSER and evaluated by Ramachandran Plot and tools under Structural Analysis and Verification Server. The nucleotides differences between CB and Aseel were c. [156G > A; 210 T > C; 493C > T; c.520G > C; 665A > C; 686G > A; 937C > G; 1011A > C; 1130A > G; 1208 T > A; 1326 T > C; 1433 T > C]. The amino acid substitutions between CB and Aseel were p. [(Pro165Ser; Glu174Gln; Gln222Pro; Ser229Asn; His313Asp; Gln377Arg; Val403Asp; and Ile478Thr)]. While, the silent changes includes p. [(Lys53=; Glu71=; Leu337=; Asp442=)]. The molecular weight of mature protein was predicted to be 55.51 kDa and 57.80 kDa in Aseel and CB, respectively. The higher rank 3D model had a C-score of -1.60 in Aseel and - 1.41 in CB, while the estimated TM-score (0.54 ± 0.14) and RMSD (5.8 ± 1.2 Å) were found to be similar in Aseel and CB. Among the 512 residues, >90% were in favored region, 4.7% in allowed region and <1.5% in disallowed region in both Aseel and CB. The pattern of contact map was comparable in Aseel and CB. The Hydrogen bond plots of the Aseel and CB shared similar secondary structure pattern. The ACTRIIB protein was predicted to interact with ACVR1B, ACVR1C, INHBA, SMAD 1,2,5,7 & 9 and BMPR1A&B. Clustal and phylogenetic analysis implied that both the lines were closely related and formed a sub cluster with in avian cluster. The current research provides insights about structural and functional aspects of the receptor and also aids in understanding the evolutionary history of ACTRIIB.
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Guerra A, Oikonomidou PR, Sinha S, Zhang J, Lo Presti V, Hamilton CR, Breda L, Casu C, La P, Martins AC, Sendamarai AK, Fleming M, Rivella S. Lack of Gdf11 does not improve anemia or prevent the activity of RAP-536 in a mouse model of β-thalassemia. Blood 2019; 134:568-572. [PMID: 31151988 PMCID: PMC6688431 DOI: 10.1182/blood.2019001057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
AbstractThere is a Blood Commentary on this article in this issue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amaliris Guerra
- Division of Hematology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Paraskevi Rea Oikonomidou
- Division of Hematology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Sayantani Sinha
- Division of Hematology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Jianbing Zhang
- Division of Hematology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Vania Lo Presti
- Division of Hematology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Callum R Hamilton
- Division of Hematology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Laura Breda
- Division of Hematology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Carla Casu
- Division of Hematology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Ping La
- Division of Hematology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Ana C Martins
- Chronic Diseases Research Center, NOVA Medical School, NOVA University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal; and
| | | | - Mark Fleming
- Department of Pathology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Stefano Rivella
- Division of Hematology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA
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Structural characterization of an activin class ternary receptor complex reveals a third paradigm for receptor specificity. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2019; 116:15505-15513. [PMID: 31315975 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1906253116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
TGFβ family ligands, which include the TGFβs, BMPs, and activins, signal by forming a ternary complex with type I and type II receptors. For TGFβs and BMPs, structures of ternary complexes have revealed differences in receptor assembly. However, structural information for how activins assemble a ternary receptor complex is lacking. We report the structure of an activin class member, GDF11, in complex with the type II receptor ActRIIB and the type I receptor Alk5. The structure reveals that receptor positioning is similar to the BMP class, with no interreceptor contacts; however, the type I receptor interactions are shifted toward the ligand fingertips and away from the dimer interface. Mutational analysis shows that ligand type I specificity is derived from differences in the fingertips of the ligands that interact with an extended loop specific to Alk4 and Alk5. The study also reveals differences for how TGFβ and GDF11 bind to the same type I receptor, Alk5. For GDF11, additional contacts at the fingertip region substitute for the interreceptor interactions that are seen for TGFβ, indicating that Alk5 binding to GDF11 is more dependent on direct contacts. In support, we show that a single residue of Alk5 (Phe84), when mutated, abolishes GDF11 signaling, but has little impact on TGFβ signaling. The structure of GDF11/ActRIIB/Alk5 shows that, across the TGFβ family, different mechanisms regulate type I receptor binding and specificity, providing a molecular explanation for how the activin class accommodates low-affinity type I interactions without the requirement of cooperative receptor interactions.
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46
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The TGFβ type I receptor TGFβRI functions as an inhibitor of BMP signaling in cartilage. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2019; 116:15570-15579. [PMID: 31311865 PMCID: PMC6681752 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1902927116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The TGFβ signaling pathway is activated when TGFβ ligands induce formation of TGFβRI and TGFβRII receptor complexes. However, loss of TGFβRI in mouse cartilage led to more severe defects than did loss of TGFβRII. Most of the defects were rescued by deletion of the BMP receptor ACVRL1, suggesting that a major role of TGFβRI in cartilage development is to suppress BMP signaling by ACVRL1. TGFβRI prevents the formation of ACVRL1/ACTRIIB complexes, which have high affinity for BMP9, the most abundant BMP in circulation. These results demonstrate a form of cross talk between BMP and TGFβ signaling pathways in cartilage that may also operate in other tissues where the relative output of these 2 pathways is required. The type I TGFβ receptor TGFβRI (encoded by Tgfbr1) was ablated in cartilage. The resulting Tgfbr1Col2 mice exhibited lethal chondrodysplasia. Similar defects were not seen in mice lacking the type II TGFβ receptor or SMADs 2 and 3, the intracellular mediators of canonical TGFβ signaling. However, we detected elevated BMP activity in Tgfbr1Col2 mice. As previous studies showed that TGFβRI can physically interact with ACVRL1, a type I BMP receptor, we generated cartilage-specific Acvrl1 (Acvrl1Col2) and Acvrl1/Tgfbr1 (Acvrl1/Tgfbr1Col2) knockouts. Loss of ACVRL1 alone had no effect, but Acvrl1/Tgfbr1Col2 mice exhibited a striking reversal of the chondrodysplasia seen in Tgfbr1Col2 mice. Loss of TGFβRI led to a redistribution of the type II receptor ACTRIIB into ACVRL1/ACTRIIB complexes, which have high affinity for BMP9. Although BMP9 is not produced in cartilage, we detected BMP9 in the growth plate, most likely derived from the circulation. These findings demonstrate that the major function of TGFβRI in cartilage is not to transduce TGFβ signaling, but rather to antagonize BMP signaling mediated by ACVRL1.
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47
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Czaja W, Nakamura YK, Li N, Eldridge JA, DeAvila DM, Thompson TB, Rodgers BD. Myostatin regulates pituitary development and hepatic IGF1. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2019; 316:E1036-E1049. [PMID: 30888862 PMCID: PMC6620572 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00001.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Circulating myostatin-attenuating agents are being developed to treat muscle-wasting disease despite their potential to produce serious off-target effects, as myostatin/activin receptors are widely distributed among many nonmuscle tissues. Our studies suggest that the myokine not only inhibits striated muscle growth but also regulates pituitary development and growth hormone (GH) action in the liver. Using a novel myostatin-null label-retaining model (Jekyll mice), we determined that the heterogeneous pool of pituitary stem, transit-amplifying, and progenitor cells in Jekyll mice depletes more rapidly after birth than the pool in wild-type mice. This correlated with increased levels of GH, prolactin, and the cells that secrete these hormones, somatotropes and lactotropes, respectively, in Jekyll pituitaries. Recombinant myostatin also stimulated GH release and gene expression in pituitary cell cultures although inhibiting prolactin release. In primary hepatocytes, recombinant myostatin blocked GH-stimulated expression of two key mediators of growth, insulin-like growth factor (IGF)1 and the acid labile subunit and increased expression of an inhibitor, IGF-binding protein-1. The significance of these findings was demonstrated by smaller muscle fiber size in a model lacking myostatin and liver IGF1 expression (LID-o-Mighty mice) compared with that in myostatin-null (Mighty) mice. These data together suggest that myostatin may regulate pituitary development and function and that its inhibitory actions in muscle may be partly mediated by attenuating GH action in the liver. They also suggest that circulating pharmacological inhibitors of myostatin could produce unintended consequences in these and possibly other tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wioletta Czaja
- Washington Center for Muscle Biology, Department of Animal Sciences, Washington State University , Pullman, Washington
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Georgia , Athens, Georgia
| | - Yukiko K Nakamura
- Washington Center for Muscle Biology, Department of Animal Sciences, Washington State University , Pullman, Washington
| | - Naisi Li
- Washington Center for Muscle Biology, Department of Animal Sciences, Washington State University , Pullman, Washington
| | - Jennifer A Eldridge
- Washington Center for Muscle Biology, Department of Animal Sciences, Washington State University , Pullman, Washington
| | - David M DeAvila
- Washington Center for Muscle Biology, Department of Animal Sciences, Washington State University , Pullman, Washington
| | - Thomas B Thompson
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Cincinnati , Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Buel D Rodgers
- Washington Center for Muscle Biology, Department of Animal Sciences, Washington State University , Pullman, Washington
- AAVogen, Incorporated, Rockville, Maryland
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49
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Guru Vishnu P, Bhattacharya TK, Bhushan B, Kumar P, Chatterjee RN, Paswan C, Dushyanth K, Divya D, Prasad AR. In silico prediction of short hairpin RNA and in vitro silencing of activin receptor type IIB in chicken embryo fibroblasts by RNA interference. Mol Biol Rep 2019; 46:2947-2959. [PMID: 30879273 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-019-04756-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2019] [Accepted: 03/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Gene silencing by RNA interference is extensively used reverse genetic approach to analyse the implications of any gene in mammalian systems. The silencing of the Activin type IIB receptor belonging to transforming growth factor beta superfamily has demonstrated increase in muscle growth in many species. We designed five short hairpin RNA constructs targeting coding region of chicken ACTRIIB. All the shRNAs were transfected into chicken embryo fibroblast cells and evaluated their silencing efficiency by real time PCR and western blotting. Initially the computational analysis of target region and shRNA constructs was undertaken to predict sequence based features (secondary structures, GC% and H-b index) and thermodynamic features (ΔGoverall, ΔGduplex, ΔGbreak-target, ΔGintra-oligomer, ΔGinter-oligomer and ΔΔGends). We determined that all these predicted features were associated with shRNA efficacy. The invitro analysis of shRNA constructs exhibited significant (P < 0.05) reduction in the levels of ACTRIIB at mRNA and protein level. The knock down efficiency of shRNAs varied significantly (P < 0.001) from 83% (shRNA 1) to 43% (shRNA 5). All the shRNAs up regulated the myogenic pathway associated genes (MyoD and MyoG) significantly (P < 0.05). There was significant (P < 0.05) up-regulation of IFNA, IFNB and MHCII transcripts. The ACTRIIB expression was inversely associated with the expression of myogenic pathway and immune response genes. The anti ACTRIIB shRNA construct 1 and 3 exhibited maximum knock down efficiency with minimal interferon response, and can be used for generating ACTRIIB knockdown chicken with higher muscle mass.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Guru Vishnu
- Sri Venkateswara Veterinary University, Tirupathi, A.P., India.
| | | | - Bharat Bhushan
- Division of Animal Genetics & Breeding, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, U.P., India
| | - Pushpendra Kumar
- Division of Animal Genetics & Breeding, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, U.P., India
| | | | | | - K Dushyanth
- ICAR-Directorate of Poultry Research, Hyderabad, India
| | - D Divya
- ICAR-Directorate of Poultry Research, Hyderabad, India
| | - A Rajendra Prasad
- Division of Animal Genetics & Breeding, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, U.P., India
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50
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Heemskerk I, Burt K, Miller M, Chhabra S, Guerra MC, Liu L, Warmflash A. Rapid changes in morphogen concentration control self-organized patterning in human embryonic stem cells. eLife 2019; 8:e40526. [PMID: 30829572 PMCID: PMC6398983 DOI: 10.7554/elife.40526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2018] [Accepted: 02/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
During embryonic development, diffusible signaling molecules called morphogens are thought to determine cell fates in a concentration-dependent way. Yet, in mammalian embryos, concentrations change rapidly compared to the time for making cell fate decisions. Here, we use human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) to address how changing morphogen levels influence differentiation, focusing on how BMP4 and Nodal signaling govern the cell-fate decisions associated with gastrulation. We show that BMP4 response is concentration dependent, but that expression of many Nodal targets depends on rate of concentration change. Moreover, in a self-organized stem cell model for human gastrulation, expression of these genes follows rapid changes in endogenous Nodal signaling. Our study shows a striking contrast between the specific ways ligand dynamics are interpreted by two closely related signaling pathways, highlighting both the subtlety and importance of morphogen dynamics for understanding mammalian embryogenesis and designing optimized protocols for directed stem cell differentiation. Editorial note This article has been through an editorial process in which the authors decide how to respond to the issues raised during peer review. The Reviewing Editor's assessment is that all the issues have been addressed (see decision letter).
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Affiliation(s)
- Idse Heemskerk
- Department of BiosciencesRice UniversityHoustonUnited States
| | - Kari Burt
- Department of BiosciencesRice UniversityHoustonUnited States
| | - Matthew Miller
- Department of BiosciencesRice UniversityHoustonUnited States
| | - Sapna Chhabra
- Systems, Synthetic and Physical Biology ProgramRice UniversityHoustonUnited States
| | | | - Lizhong Liu
- Department of BiosciencesRice UniversityHoustonUnited States
| | - Aryeh Warmflash
- Department of BiosciencesRice UniversityHoustonUnited States
- Department of BioengineeringRice UniversityHoustonUnited States
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