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Yang J, Liu J, Liang J, Li F, Wang W, Chen H, Xie X. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition in age-associated thymic involution: Mechanisms and therapeutic implications. Ageing Res Rev 2023; 92:102115. [PMID: 37922996 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2023.102115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
The thymus is a critical immune organ with endocrine and immune functions that plays important roles in the physiological and pathological processes of the body. However, with aging, the thymus undergoes degenerative changes leading to decreased production and output of naive T cells and the secretion of thymic hormones and related cytokines, thereby promoting the occurrence and development of various age-associated diseases. Therefore, identifying essential processes that regulate age-associated thymic involution is crucial for long-term control of thymic involution and age-associated disease progression. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a well-established process involved in organ aging and functional impairment through tissue fibrosis in several organs, such as the heart and kidney. In the thymus, EMT promotes fibrosis and potentially adipogenesis, leading to thymic involution. This review focuses on the factors involved in thymic involution, including oxidative stress, inflammation, and hormones, from the perspective of EMT. Furthermore, current interventions for reversing age-associated thymic involution by targeting EMT-associated processes are summarized. Understanding the key mechanisms of thymic involution through EMT as an entry point may promote the development of new therapies and clinical agents to reverse thymic involution and age-associated disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiali Yang
- The School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China; Public Center of Experimental Technology, Model Animal and Human Disease Research of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Juan Liu
- The School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China; Public Center of Experimental Technology, Model Animal and Human Disease Research of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Jiayu Liang
- The School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China; Public Center of Experimental Technology, Model Animal and Human Disease Research of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Fan Li
- The School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China; Public Center of Experimental Technology, Model Animal and Human Disease Research of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Wenwen Wang
- The School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China; Public Center of Experimental Technology, Model Animal and Human Disease Research of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Huan Chen
- The School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China; Nucleic Acid Medicine of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China.
| | - Xiang Xie
- The School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China; Public Center of Experimental Technology, Model Animal and Human Disease Research of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China.
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2
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Zaoui K, Duhamel S. RhoB as a tumor suppressor: It’s all about localization. Eur J Cell Biol 2023; 102:151313. [PMID: 36996579 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejcb.2023.151313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The small GTPase RhoB is distinguished from other Rho proteins by its unique subcellular localization in endosomes, multivesicular bodies, and nucleus. Despite high sequence homology with RhoA and RhoC, RhoB is mainly associated with tumor suppressive function, while RhoA and RhoC support oncogenic transformation in most malignancies. RhoB regulates the endocytic trafficking of signaling molecules and cytoskeleton remodeling, thereby controlling growth, apoptosis, stress response, immune function, and cell motility in various contexts. Some of these functions may be ascribed to RhoB's unique subcellular localization to endocytic compartments. Here we describe the pleiotropic roles of RhoB in cancer suppression in the context of its subcellular localization, and we discuss possible therapeutic avenues to pursue and highlight priorities for future research.
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3
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Gutierrez E, Cahatol I, Bailey CAR, Lafargue A, Zhang N, Song Y, Tian H, Zhang Y, Chan R, Gu K, Zhang ACC, Tang J, Liu C, Connis N, Dennis P, Zhang C. Regulation of RhoB Gene Expression during Tumorigenesis and Aging Process and Its Potential Applications in These Processes. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11060818. [PMID: 31200451 PMCID: PMC6627600 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11060818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2019] [Revised: 06/01/2019] [Accepted: 06/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
RhoB, a member of the Ras homolog gene family and GTPase, regulates intracellular signaling pathways by interfacing with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), Ras, and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt to modulate responses in cellular structure and function. Notably, the EGFR, Ras, and PI3K/Akt pathways can lead to downregulation of RhoB, while simultaneously being associated with an increased propensity for tumorigenesis. Functionally, RhoB, part of the Rho GTPase family, regulates intracellular signaling pathways by interfacing with EGFR, RAS, and PI3K/Akt/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), and MYC pathways to modulate responses in cellular structure and function. Notably, the EGFR, Ras, and PI3K/Akt pathways can lead to downregulation of RhoB, while simultaneously being associated with an increased propensity for tumorigenesis. RHOB expression has a complex regulatory backdrop consisting of multiple histone deacetyltransferase (HDACs 1 and 6) and microRNA (miR-19a, -21, and -223)-mediated mechanisms of modifying expression. The interwoven nature of RhoB’s regulatory impact and cellular roles in regulating intracellular vesicle trafficking, cell motion, and the cell cycle lays the foundation for analyzing the link between loss of RhoB and tumorigenesis within the context of age-related decline in RhoB. RhoB appears to play a tissue-specific role in tumorigenesis, as such, uncovering and appreciating the potential for restoration of RHOB expression as a mechanism for cancer prevention or therapeutics serves as a practical application. An in-depth assessment of RhoB will serve as a springboard for investigating and characterizing this key component of numerous intracellular messaging and regulatory pathways that may hold the connection between aging and tumorigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eutiquio Gutierrez
- College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific, Western University of Health Sciences, 309 E 2nd Street, Pomona, CA 91766, USA.
- Department of Internal Medicine, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, 1000 W Carson Street, Torrance, CA 90509, USA.
| | - Ian Cahatol
- College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific, Western University of Health Sciences, 309 E 2nd Street, Pomona, CA 91766, USA
- Department of Graduate Medical Education, Community Memorial Health System, 147 N Brent Street, Ventura, CA 93003, USA
| | - Cedric A R Bailey
- College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific, Western University of Health Sciences, 309 E 2nd Street, Pomona, CA 91766, USA
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, 509 S Euclid Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Audrey Lafargue
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Molecular Radiation Sciences, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 1550 Orleans Street, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - Naming Zhang
- Department of Oncology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 733 N Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Ying Song
- Department of Oncology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 733 N Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Hongwei Tian
- Department of Oncology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 733 N Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Yizhi Zhang
- Department of Oncology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 733 N Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Ryan Chan
- Department of Oncology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 733 N Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Kevin Gu
- Department of Oncology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 733 N Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Angel C C Zhang
- Division of Translational Radiation Sciences, Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Maryland, School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - James Tang
- Division of Translational Radiation Sciences, Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Maryland, School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Chunshui Liu
- Division of Translational Radiation Sciences, Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Maryland, School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Nick Connis
- Department of Oncology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 733 N Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Phillip Dennis
- Department of Oncology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 733 N Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Chunyu Zhang
- Department of Oncology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 733 N Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
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4
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Xu M, Gan T, Ning H, Wang L. MicroRNA Functions in Thymic Biology: Thymic Development and Involution. Front Immunol 2018; 9:2063. [PMID: 30254640 PMCID: PMC6141719 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.02063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2017] [Accepted: 08/21/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
During the entire processes of thymus organogenesis, maturation, and involution, gene regulation occurs post-transcriptionally via recently discovered microRNA (miRNA) transcripts. Numerous reports indicate that miRNAs may be involved in the construction of a normal thymic microenvironment, which constitutes a critical component to support T lymphocyte development. MiRNAs are also expressed in thymic stromal cells including thymic epithelial cells (TECs) during maturation and senescence. This review focuses on the function of miRNAs in thymic development and involution. A better understanding of these processes will provide new insights into the regulatory network of TECs and further comprehension of how genes control TECs to maintain the thymic microenvironment during thymus development and aging, thus supporting a normal cellular immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minwen Xu
- First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, China
| | - Tao Gan
- Department of Biotechnology, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, China
| | - Huiting Ning
- Department of Biotechnology, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, China
| | - Liefeng Wang
- Department of Biotechnology, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, China
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5
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Vega FM, Ridley AJ. The RhoB small GTPase in physiology and disease. Small GTPases 2018; 9:384-393. [PMID: 27875099 PMCID: PMC5997158 DOI: 10.1080/21541248.2016.1253528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2016] [Revised: 10/22/2016] [Accepted: 10/23/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
RhoB is a Rho family GTPase that is highly similar to RhoA and RhoC, yet has distinct functions in cells. Its unique C-terminal region is subject to specific post-translational modifications that confer different localization and functions to RhoB. Apart from the common role with RhoA and RhoC in actin organization and cell migration, RhoB is also implicated in a variety of other cellular processes including membrane trafficking, cell proliferation, DNA-repair and apoptosis. RhoB is not an essential gene in mice, but it is implicated in several physiological and pathological processes. Its multiple roles will be discussed in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco M. Vega
- Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla, IBiS (Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocío/CSIC/Universidad de Sevilla), Sevilla, Spain
- Department of Medical Physiology and Biophysics, Universidad de Sevilla, Sevilla, Spain
| | - Anne J. Ridley
- Randall Division of Cell and Molecular Biophysics, King's College London, New Hunt's House, Guy's Campus, London, UK
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6
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Nomikou E, Livitsanou M, Stournaras C, Kardassis D. Transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulation of the genes encoding the small GTPases RhoA, RhoB, and RhoC: implications for the pathogenesis of human diseases. Cell Mol Life Sci 2018; 75:2111-2124. [PMID: 29500478 PMCID: PMC11105751 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-018-2787-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2017] [Revised: 01/25/2018] [Accepted: 02/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Rho GTPases are highly conserved proteins that play critical roles in many cellular processes including actin dynamics, vesicular trafficking, gene transcription, cell-cycle progression, and cell adhesion. The main mode of regulation of Rho GTPases is through guanine nucleotide binding (cycling between an active GTP-bound form and an inactive GDP-bound form), but transcriptional, post-transcriptional, and post-translational modes of Rho regulation have also been described. In the present review, we summarize recent progress on the mechanisms that control the expression of the three members of the Rho-like subfamily (RhoA, RhoB, and RhoC) at the level of gene transcription as well as their post-transcriptional regulation by microRNAs. We also discuss the progress made in deciphering the mechanisms of cross-talk between Rho proteins and the transforming growth factor β signaling pathway and their implications for the pathogenesis of human diseases such as cancer metastasis and fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eirini Nomikou
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Medicine, University of Crete, 71003, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Melina Livitsanou
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Medicine, University of Crete, 71003, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Christos Stournaras
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Medicine, University of Crete, 71003, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Dimitris Kardassis
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Medicine, University of Crete, 71003, Heraklion, Greece.
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas, 71110, Heraklion, Greece.
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7
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Zou Q, Xiao X, Liang Y, Peng L, Guo Z, Li W, Yu W. miR-19a-mediated downregulation of RhoB inhibits the dephosphorylation of AKT1 and induces osteosarcoma cell metastasis. Cancer Lett 2018; 428:147-159. [PMID: 29702193 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2018.04.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2017] [Revised: 04/18/2018] [Accepted: 04/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Osteosarcoma is a primary malignancy that develops in bone, along with serious recurrence and metastasis. As an isoform of Rho family GTPases, RhoB could suppress cell proliferation, invasion, and anti-angiogenesis. But it is not clear how RhoB involves in tumor metastasis. Here we found that expression of RhoB was decreased in osteosarcoma primary samples and cell lines. Ectopic expression of RhoB restrains the migration of osteosarcoma cells in vitro and in vivo, and induces osteosarcoma cell apopotsis. Further study showed that overexpression of RhoB could increase the proportion of B55 in PP2A complex and enhance the dephosphorylation of AKT1 by interacting with B55. Moreover, we demonstrated that miR-19a, which exhibits abnormal expression in highly metastatic osteosarcoma cell lines, could inhibit the expression of RhoB and promote the lung metastasis of osteosarcoma cells in vivo. Our results indicate that miR-19a-mediated RhoB is a critical regulator for the dephosphorylation of AKT1 in osteosarcoma cells. It may have a possible strategy on suppressing osteosarcoma metastasis by miR-19a inhibitory oligonucleotides. The miR-19a/RhoB/AKT1 network may help us to better understand the mechanism of osteosarcoma metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingping Zou
- Laboratory of RNA Epigenetics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences & Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanghai Medical College, MOE Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Department of Molecular Biology, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Genetics and Development, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Xin Xiao
- Department of Orthopedics, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710032, China
| | - Ying Liang
- Laboratory of RNA Epigenetics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences & Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanghai Medical College, MOE Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Department of Molecular Biology, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Genetics and Development, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Lina Peng
- Laboratory of RNA Epigenetics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences & Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanghai Medical College, MOE Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Department of Molecular Biology, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Genetics and Development, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Zheng Guo
- Department of Orthopedics, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710032, China.
| | - Wei Li
- Laboratory of RNA Epigenetics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences & Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanghai Medical College, MOE Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Department of Molecular Biology, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| | - Wenqiang Yu
- Laboratory of RNA Epigenetics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences & Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanghai Medical College, MOE Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Department of Molecular Biology, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Genetics and Development, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China.
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8
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Kovačević I, Sakaue T, Majoleé J, Pronk MC, Maekawa M, Geerts D, Fernandez-Borja M, Higashiyama S, Hordijk PL. The Cullin-3-Rbx1-KCTD10 complex controls endothelial barrier function via K63 ubiquitination of RhoB. J Cell Biol 2018; 217:1015-1032. [PMID: 29358211 PMCID: PMC5839774 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.201606055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2016] [Revised: 04/04/2017] [Accepted: 12/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The RhoA GTPase controls endothelial cell migration, adhesion, and barrier formation but the role of RhoB is unclear. Kovačević et al. now discover that RhoB is ubiquitinated by the CUL3–Rbx1–KCTD10 complex and that this is a prerequisite for lysosomal degradation of RhoB and the maintenance of endothelial barrier integrity. RhoGTPases control endothelial cell (EC) migration, adhesion, and barrier formation. Whereas the relevance of RhoA for endothelial barrier function is widely accepted, the role of the RhoA homologue RhoB is poorly defined. RhoB and RhoA are 85% identical, but RhoB’s subcellular localization and half-life are uniquely different. Here, we studied the role of ubiquitination for the function and stability of RhoB in primary human ECs. We show that the K63 polyubiquitination at lysine 162 and 181 of RhoB targets the protein to lysosomes. Moreover, we identified the RING E3 ligase complex Cullin-3–Rbx1–KCTD10 as key modulator of endothelial barrier integrity via its regulation of the ubiquitination, localization, and activity of RhoB. In conclusion, our data show that ubiquitination controls the subcellular localization and lysosomal degradation of RhoB and thereby regulates the stability of the endothelial barrier through control of RhoB-mediated EC contraction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Igor Kovačević
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Sanquin Research, Amsterdam, Netherlands.,Department of Physiology, Vrije Universiteit University Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Tomohisa Sakaue
- Division of Cell Growth and Tumor Regulation, Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University, Toon, Ehime, Japan.,Department of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, Toon, Ehime, Japan.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, Toon, Ehime, Japan
| | - Jisca Majoleé
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Sanquin Research, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Manon C Pronk
- Department of Physiology, Vrije Universiteit University Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Masashi Maekawa
- Division of Cell Growth and Tumor Regulation, Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University, Toon, Ehime, Japan.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, Toon, Ehime, Japan
| | - Dirk Geerts
- Department of Pediatric Oncology/Hematology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Mar Fernandez-Borja
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Sanquin Research, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Shigeki Higashiyama
- Division of Cell Growth and Tumor Regulation, Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University, Toon, Ehime, Japan .,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, Toon, Ehime, Japan
| | - Peter L Hordijk
- Department of Physiology, Vrije Universiteit University Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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9
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Mandik-Nayak L, DuHadaway JB, Mulgrew J, Pigott E, Manley K, Sedano S, Prendergast GC, Laury-Kleintop LD. RhoB blockade selectively inhibits autoantibody production in autoimmune models of rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. Dis Model Mech 2017; 10:1313-1322. [PMID: 28882929 PMCID: PMC5719251 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.029835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2017] [Accepted: 08/30/2017] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
During the development of autoimmune disease, a switch occurs in the antibody repertoire of B cells so that the production of pathogenic rather than non-pathogenic autoantibodies is enabled. However, there is limited knowledge concerning how this pivotal step occurs. Here, we present genetic and pharmacological evidence of a positive modifier function for the vesicular small GTPase RhoB in specifically mediating the generation of pathogenic autoantibodies and disease progression in the K/BxN preclinical mouse model of inflammatory arthritis. Genetic deletion of RhoB abolished the production of pathogenic autoantibodies and ablated joint inflammation in the model. Similarly, administration of a novel RhoB-targeted monoclonal antibody was sufficient to ablate autoantibody production and joint inflammation. In the MRL/lpr mouse model of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), another established preclinical model of autoimmune disease associated with autoantibody production, administration of the anti-RhoB antibody also reduced serum levels of anti-dsDNA antibodies. Notably, the therapeutic effects of RhoB blockade reflected a selective deficiency in response to self-antigens, insofar as RhoB-deficient mice and mice treated with anti-RhoB immunoglobulin (Ig) both mounted comparable productive antibody responses after immunization with a model foreign antigen. Overall, our results highlight a newly identified function for RhoB in supporting the specific production of pathogenic autoantibodies, and offer a preclinical proof of concept for use of anti-RhoB Ig as a disease-selective therapy to treat autoimmune disorders driven by pathogenic autoantibodies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jennifer Mulgrew
- Lankenau Institute for Medical Research, Wynnewood, PA 19096, USA
| | - Elizabeth Pigott
- Lankenau Institute for Medical Research, Wynnewood, PA 19096, USA
| | - Kaylend Manley
- Lankenau Institute for Medical Research, Wynnewood, PA 19096, USA
| | - Summer Sedano
- Lankenau Institute for Medical Research, Wynnewood, PA 19096, USA
| | - George C Prendergast
- Lankenau Institute for Medical Research, Wynnewood, PA 19096, USA.,Department of Pathology, Anatomy and Cell Biology, Sidney Kimmel Medical College and Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
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10
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Guo D, Ye Y, Qi J, Zhang L, Xu L, Tan X, Yu X, Liu Q, Liu J, Zhang Y, Ma Y, Li Y. MicroRNA-181a-5p enhances cell proliferation in medullary thymic epithelial cells via regulating TGF-β signaling. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2016; 48:840-9. [PMID: 27411504 DOI: 10.1093/abbs/gmw068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2016] [Accepted: 03/14/2016] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The expression profiles of miRNAs in thymus tissues from mice of different age have been demonstrated in our previous study. After an integrated analysis of the miRNA expression profiles, we demonstrated that the expression of miR-181a-5p was significantly decreased in thymic epithelial cells (TECs) from 10- to 19-month-old mice when compared with that in TECs from 1-month-old mice by quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. We hypothesized that miR-181a-5p in TECs might be associated with the age-related thymus involution through regulating some genes or signaling pathway. To test this hypothesis, the mouse medullary thymic epithelial cells (MTEC1) were used. Transfection with miR-181a-5p mimic promoted the proliferation of MTEC1 cells, but did not affect apoptosis. The effect was reversed when the expression of miR-181a-5p was suppressed in MTEC1 cells. Furthermore, the transforming growth factor beta receptor I (Tgfbr1) was confirmed as a direct target of miR-181a-5p by luciferase assay. Moreover, it was found that overexpression of miR-181a-5p down-regulated the phosphorylation of Smad3 and blocked the activation of the transforming growth factor beta signaling. Nevertheless, an inversely correlation was observed between the expression of Tgfbr1 and miR-181a-5p in TECs derived from mice of different age. Collectively, we provide evidence that miR-181a-5p may be an important endogenous regulator in the proliferation of TECs, and the expression levels of miR-181a-5p in TECs may be associated with the age-related thymus involution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongguang Guo
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Yaqiong Ye
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Junjie Qi
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Lihua Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Lifeng Xu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Xiaotong Tan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Xiaofang Yu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Qihong Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Jilong Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Yuan Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Yongjiang Ma
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Yugu Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
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11
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Guo D, Ye Y, Qi J, Xu L, Zhang L, Tan X, Tan Z, Yu X, Zhang Y, Ma Y, Li Y. MicroRNA-195a-5p inhibits mouse medullary thymic epithelial cells proliferation by directly targeting Smad7. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2016; 48:290-7. [PMID: 26837421 DOI: 10.1093/abbs/gmv136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2015] [Accepted: 11/02/2015] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
MiR-195 has been implicated in inhibiting cell proliferation in different types of tumors. Whether it contributes to the process of thymic epithelial cells (TECs) proliferation remains unclear. In this study, we found that miR-195a-5p was highly up-regulated in the TECs isolated from the aging mice. Further experiments showed that miR-195a-5p mimic transfection inhibited the proliferation of mouse medullary thymic epithelial cell line 1 (MTEC1), whereas the transfection of miR-195a-5p inhibitor in MTEC1 had the opposite effect. In addition, miR-195a-5p had no obvious effect on MTEC1 apoptosis. Furthermore, Smad7, a negative regulator of transforming growth factor β pathway, was confirmed as a direct target of miR-195a-5p by luciferase assays. Taken together, our results indicate that miR-195a-5p inhibits MTEC1 proliferation, at least in part, via down-regulation of Smad7.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongguang Guo
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Yaqiong Ye
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Junjie Qi
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Lifeng Xu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Lihua Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Xiaotong Tan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Zhigang Tan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Xiaofang Yu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Yuan Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Yongjiang Ma
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Yugu Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
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12
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RhoB regulates the function of macrophages in the hypoxia-induced inflammatory response. Cell Mol Immunol 2015; 14:265-275. [PMID: 26388235 DOI: 10.1038/cmi.2015.78] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2015] [Revised: 07/17/2015] [Accepted: 07/19/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune cells, particularly macrophages, play critical roles in the hypoxia-induced inflammatory response. The small GTPase RhoB is usually rapidly induced by a variety of stimuli and has been described as an important regulator of cytoskeletal organization and vesicle and membrane receptor trafficking. However, it is unknown whether RhoB is involved in the hypoxia-induced inflammatory response. Here, we investigated the effect of hypoxia on the expression of RhoB and the mechanism and significance of RhoB expression in macrophages. We found that hypoxia significantly upregulated the expression of RhoB in RAW264.7 cells, mouse peritoneal macrophages, and the spleen of rats. Hypoxia-induced expression of RhoB was significantly blocked by a specific inhibitor of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α), c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), or extracellular-signal regulated protein kinase (ERK), indicating that hypoxia-activated HIF-1α, JNK, and ERK are involved in the upregulation of RhoB by hypoxia. Knockdown of RhoB expression not only significantly suppressed basal production of interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), interleukin 6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) in normoxia but also more markedly decreased the hypoxia-stimulated production of these cytokines. Furthermore, we showed that RhoB increased nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) activity, and the inhibition of NF-κB transcriptional activity significantly decreased the RhoB-increased mRNA levels of IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α. Finally, we demonstrated that RhoB enhanced cell adhesion and inhibited cell migration in normoxia and hypoxia. Taken together, these results suggest that RhoB plays an important role in the hypoxia-induced activation of macrophages and the inflammatory response.Cellular & Molecular Immunology advance online publication, 21 September 2015; doi:10.1038/cmi.2015.78.
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13
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Rezzani R, Nardo L, Favero G, Peroni M, Rodella LF. Thymus and aging: morphological, radiological, and functional overview. AGE (DORDRECHT, NETHERLANDS) 2014; 36:313-51. [PMID: 23877171 PMCID: PMC3889907 DOI: 10.1007/s11357-013-9564-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2012] [Accepted: 07/01/2013] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Aging is a continuous process that induces many alterations in the cytoarchitecture of different organs and systems both in humans and animals. Moreover, it is associated with increased susceptibility to infectious, autoimmune, and neoplastic processes. The thymus is a primary lymphoid organ responsible for the production of immunocompetent T cells and, with aging, it atrophies and declines in functions. Universality of thymic involution in all species possessing thymus, including human, indicates it as a long-standing evolutionary event. Although it is accepted that many factors contribute to age-associated thymic involution, little is known about the mechanisms involved in the process. The exact time point of the initiation is not well defined. To address the issue, we report the exact age of thymus throughout the review so that readers can have a nicely pictured synoptic view of the process. Focusing our attention on the different stages of the development of the thymus gland (natal, postnatal, adult, and old), we describe chronologically the morphological changes of the gland. We report that the thymic morphology and cell types are evolutionarily preserved in several vertebrate species. This finding is important in understanding the similar problems caused by senescence and other diseases. Another point that we considered very important is to indicate the assessment of the thymus through radiological images to highlight its variability in shape, size, and anatomical conformation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita Rezzani
- Anatomy and Physiopathology Division, Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Viale Europa 11, 25123, Brescia, Italy,
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14
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Thumkeo D, Watanabe S, Narumiya S. Physiological roles of Rho and Rho effectors in mammals. Eur J Cell Biol 2013; 92:303-15. [PMID: 24183240 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejcb.2013.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 170] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2013] [Revised: 09/25/2013] [Accepted: 09/25/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Rho GTPase is a master regulator controlling cytoskeleton in multiple contexts such as cell migration, adhesion and cytokinesis. Of several Rho GTPases in mammals, the best characterized is the Rho subfamily including ubiquitously expressed RhoA and its homologs RhoB and RhoC. Upon binding GTP, Rho exerts its functions through downstream Rho effectors, such as ROCK, mDia, Citron, PKN, Rhophilin and Rhotekin. Until recently, our knowledge about functions of Rho and Rho effectors came mostly from in vitro studies utilizing cultured cells, and their physiological roles in vivo were largely unknown. However, gene-targeting studies of Rho and its effectors have now unraveled their tissue- and cell-specific roles and provide deeper insight into the physiological function of Rho signaling in vivo. In this article, we briefly describe previous studies of the function of Rho and its effectors in vitro and then review and discuss recent studies on knockout mice of Rho and its effectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dean Thumkeo
- Department of Pharmacology, Kyoto University Faculty of Medicine, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan; Innovation Center for Immunoregulation, Technologies and Drugs (AK Project), Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan.
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15
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Odaka C, Loranger A, Takizawa K, Ouellet M, Tremblay MJ, Murata S, Inoko A, Inagaki M, Marceau N. Keratin 8 is required for the maintenance of architectural structure in thymus epithelium. PLoS One 2013; 8:e75101. [PMID: 24086449 PMCID: PMC3782501 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0075101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2013] [Accepted: 08/12/2013] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Keratins (Ks), the intermediate filament (IF) proteins of epithelia, are coordinately expressed as pairs in a cell-lineage and differentiation manner. Cortical thymic epithelial cells (cTECs) predominantly express the simple epithelium keratin 8/18 (K8/K18) pair, whereas medullary thymic epithelial cells (mTECs) express the stratified epithelium K5/K14 pair, with TECs exhibiting K5 and K8 at the cortico-medullary junction in mature thymus. In the work reported here, we used wild-type (WT) and K8-knockout (K8-null) mice to address the contribution of K8/K18 IFs in the maintenance of the thymic epithelial structure. K8-null thymus maintained the differential cell segregation at the cortex versus the medulla observed in WT thymus, and the distribution of immature thymocytes at the cortex. The K8/K18 loss did not affect thymocyte development. However, it massively perturbed the TEC morphology both at the cortex and the medulla, along with a prominent depletion of cTECs. Such tissue alterations coincided with an increase in apoptosis and a reduced expression of Albatross (Fas-binding factor-1), also known for its capacity to bind K8/18 IFs. In addition, the K8/K18 loss affected the distribution of K5/K14-positive mTECs, but not their differentiation status. Together, the results indicate that K8/K18 IFs constitute key promoters of the thymic epithelium integrity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chikako Odaka
- Department of Safety Research on Blood and Biological Products, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
- * E-mail:
| | - Anne Loranger
- Centre de recherche sur le cancer de l’Université Laval, and Axe Oncologie, Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec, Québec, Canada
| | - Kazuya Takizawa
- Department of Safety Research on Blood and Biological Products, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Michel Ouellet
- Centre de recherche en infectiologie de l’Université Laval, and Axe Maladies infectieuses et immunitaires, Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec, Québec, Canada
| | - Michel J. Tremblay
- Centre de recherche en infectiologie de l’Université Laval, and Axe Maladies infectieuses et immunitaires, Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec, Québec, Canada
| | - Shigeo Murata
- Laboratory of Protein Metabolism, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Akihito Inoko
- Division of Biochemistry, Aichi Cancer Center Research Institute, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Masaki Inagaki
- Division of Biochemistry, Aichi Cancer Center Research Institute, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Normand Marceau
- Centre de recherche sur le cancer de l’Université Laval, and Axe Oncologie, Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec, Québec, Canada
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16
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GUO ZHIBIN, CHI FENG, SONG YAN, WANG CHANGSHAN, YU RUOXING, WEI TIANLI, GUI JINGANG, ZHU XIKE. Transcriptome analysis of murine thymic epithelial cells reveals age-associated changes in microRNA expression. Int J Mol Med 2013; 32:835-42. [DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2013.1471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2013] [Accepted: 08/19/2013] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
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17
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Odaka C, Hauri-Hohl M, Takizawa K, Nishikawa Y, Yano M, Matsumoto M, Boyd R, Holländer GA. TGF-β type II receptor expression in thymic epithelial cells inhibits the development of Hassall's corpuscles in mice. Int Immunol 2013; 25:633-42. [PMID: 23929912 DOI: 10.1093/intimm/dxt026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Hassall's corpuscles are concentric clusters of keratinized epithelial cells located within the thymic medulla of humans and guinea pigs but are scant in mouse and rat. They are considered to be the terminally differentiated stages of medullary thymic epithelial cells (mTECs) but the mechanisms of their origin are unclear. We have previously deleted the TGF-β type II receptor (TGFβRII) specifically in mouse TECs and reported that these mice have mitigated thymic involution and exhibit earlier reconstitution post-irradiation. In this study, we analyzed the differentiation of mTECs in the TGFβRII-knockout mice. Interestingly, the TGFβRII-knockout mice display enhanced development of Hassall's corpuscles. The expression of Aire, stromal-cell-derived factor 1 and thymic stromal lymphopoietin in the thymi of the TGFβRII-knockout mice was similar to that previously reported for the human thymus. In addition, the putative epithelial progenitor markers MTS20 and MTS24 labeled Hassall's corpuscles in normal mice, but the extent and intensity of this staining were greatly enhanced in Hassall's corpuscles of the TGFβRII-knockout mice. The phosphorylated forms of ERK and JNK were also found in Hassall's corpuscles of the TGFβRII-knockout mice. Taken together, we suggest that TGFβRII-mediated signaling in TECs inhibits their development into Hassall's corpuscles in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chikako Odaka
- Department of Safety Research on Blood and Biological Products, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo 208-0011, Japan
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18
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Shi Y, Zhu M. Medullary thymic epithelial cells, the indispensable player in central tolerance. SCIENCE CHINA. LIFE SCIENCES 2013; 56:392-8. [PMID: 23633070 DOI: 10.1007/s11427-013-4482-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2013] [Accepted: 03/21/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Crosstalk between thymocytes and thymic epithelial cells is critical for T cell development and the establishment of central tolerance. Medullary thymic epithelial cells (mTECs) play important roles in the late stage of T cell development, especially negative selection and Treg generation. The function of mTECs is highly dependent on their characteristic features such as ectopic expression of peripheral tissue restricted antigens (TRAs) and their master regulator-autoimmune regulator (Aire), expression of various chemokines and cytokines. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of cellular and molecular mechanisms of mTEC development and its functions in T cell development and the establishment of central tolerance. The open questions in this field are also discussed. Understanding the function and underlying mechanisms of mTECs will contribute to the better control of autoimmune diseases and the improvement of immune reconstitution during aging or after infection, chemotherapy or radiotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaoyao Shi
- Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
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Sun L, Luo H, Li H, Zhao Y. Thymic epithelial cell development and differentiation: cellular and molecular regulation. Protein Cell 2013; 4:342-55. [PMID: 23589020 DOI: 10.1007/s13238-013-3014-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2013] [Accepted: 03/11/2013] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Thymic epithelial cells (TECs) are one of the most important components in thymic microenvironment supporting thymocyte development and maturation. TECs, composed of cortical and medullary TECs, are derived from a common bipotent progenitor, mediating thymocyte positive and negative selections. Multiple levels of signals including intracellular signaling networks and cell-cell interaction are required for TEC development and differentiation. Transcription factors Foxn1 and autoimmune regulator (Aire) are powerful regulators promoting TEC development and differentiation. Crosstalks with thymocytes and other stromal cells for extrinsic signals like RANKL, CD40L, lymphotoxin, fibroblast growth factor (FGF) and Wnt are also definitely required to establish a functional thymic microenvironment. In this review, we will summarize our current understanding about TEC development and differentiation, and its underlying multiple signal pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lina Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Biomembrane and Membrane Biotechnology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
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20
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Rho GTPase function in development: How in vivo models change our view. Exp Cell Res 2012; 318:1779-87. [DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2012.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2012] [Revised: 05/07/2012] [Accepted: 05/10/2012] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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