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Dasgupta T, Manickam V. Fibrosis in Liver and Pancreas: a Review on Pathogenic Significance, Diagnostic Options, and Current Management Strategies. Inflammation 2023; 46:824-834. [PMID: 36595108 DOI: 10.1007/s10753-022-01776-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Inflammation is one of the most natural ways of the body's biological response against invading foreign pathogens or injured cells which eventually can lead to a chronic or acute productive response. Fibrosis is an end-stage event associated with an inflammatory response addressed with tissue hardening, discoloration, and most importantly overgrowth of associated tissue. Various organs at different diseased conditions are affected by fibrosis including the liver, pancreas, brain, kidney, and lung. Etiological factors including internal like inflammatory cytokines, growth factors, and oxidative stress and external like alcohol and viruses contribute to the development of fibrosis in both the liver and pancreas. More frequently, these organs are associated with pathogenic progression towards fibrosis from acute and chronic conditions and eventually fail in their functions. The pathogenesis of the organ-fibrotic events mainly depends on the activation of residential stellate cells; these cells help to accumulate collagen in respective organs. Various diagnostic options have been developed recently, and various therapeutic options are in trial to tackle fibrosis. In this review, an overview on fibrosis, the pathogenesis of fibrosis in the liver and pancreas, various diagnostic options developed in recent years, and possible present therapeutic measures to overcome options of fibrosis in the liver and pancreas; thus, restoring the functional status of organs is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiasha Dasgupta
- Department of Bio Sciences, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, 632014, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Venkatraman Manickam
- Department of Bio Sciences, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, 632014, Tamil Nadu, India.
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Kojima H, Kushige H, Yagi H, Nishijima T, Moritoki N, Nagoshi N, Nakano Y, Tanaka M, Hori S, Hasegawa Y, Abe Y, Kitago M, Nakamura M, Kitagawa Y. Combinational Treatment Involving Decellularized Extracellular Matrix Hydrogels With Mesenchymal Stem Cells Increased the Efficacy of Cell Therapy in Pancreatitis. Cell Transplant 2023; 32:9636897231170437. [PMID: 37191199 PMCID: PMC10192953 DOI: 10.1177/09636897231170437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell transplantation using mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) has emerged as a promising approach to repairing and regenerating injured or impaired organs. However, the survival and retention of MSCs following transplantation remain a challenge. Therefore, we investigated the efficacy of co-transplantation of MSCs and decellularized extracellular matrix (dECM) hydrogels, which have high cytocompatibility and biocompatibility. The dECM solution was prepared by enzymatic digestion of an acellular porcine liver scaffold. It could be gelled and formed into porous fibrillar microstructures at physiological temperatures. MSCs expanded three-dimensionally in the hydrogel without cell death. Compared to the 2-dimensional cell culture, MSCs cultured in the hydrogel showed increased secretion of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and tumor necrosis factor-inducible gene 6 protein (TSG-6), both of which are major anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic paracrine factors of MSCs, under TNFα stimulation. In vivo experiments showed that the co-transplantation of MSCs with dECM hydrogel improved the survival rate of engrafted cells compared to those administered without the hydrogel. MSCs also demonstrated therapeutic effects in improving inflammation and fibrosis of pancreatic tissue in a dibutyltin dichloride (DBTC)-induced rat pancreatitis model. Combinational use of dECM hydrogel with MSCs is a new strategy to overcome the challenges of cell therapy using MSCs and can be used for treating chronic inflammatory diseases in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hideaki Kojima
- Department of Surgery, Keio University
School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroko Kushige
- Department of Surgery, Keio University
School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Yagi
- Department of Surgery, Keio University
School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takayuki Nishijima
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Keio
University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Nobuko Moritoki
- Electron Microscope Laboratory, Keio
University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Narihito Nagoshi
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Keio
University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yutaka Nakano
- Department of Surgery, Keio University
School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masayuki Tanaka
- Department of Surgery, Keio University
School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shutaro Hori
- Department of Surgery, Keio University
School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yasushi Hasegawa
- Department of Surgery, Keio University
School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuta Abe
- Department of Surgery, Keio University
School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Minoru Kitago
- Department of Surgery, Keio University
School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masaya Nakamura
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Keio
University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuko Kitagawa
- Department of Surgery, Keio University
School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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Reichert D, Adolph L, Köhler JP, Buschmann T, Luedde T, Häussinger D, Kordes C. Improved Recovery from Liver Fibrosis by Crenolanib. Cells 2021; 10:804. [PMID: 33916518 PMCID: PMC8067177 DOI: 10.3390/cells10040804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Revised: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic liver diseases are associated with excessive deposition of extracellular matrix proteins. This so-called fibrosis can progress to cirrhosis and impair vital functions of the liver. We examined whether the receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) class III inhibitor Crenolanib affects the behavior of hepatic stellate cells (HSC) involved in fibrogenesis. Rats were treated with thioacetamide (TAA) for 18 weeks to trigger fibrosis. After TAA treatment, the animals received Crenolanib for two weeks, which significantly improved recovery from liver fibrosis. Because Crenolanib predominantly inhibits the RTK platelet-derived growth factor receptor-β, impaired HSC proliferation might be responsible for this beneficial effect. Interestingly, blocking of RTK signaling by Crenolanib not only hindered HSC proliferation but also triggered their specification into hepatic endoderm. Endodermal specification was mediated by p38 mitogen-activated kinase (p38 MAPK) and c-Jun-activated kinase (JNK) signaling; however, this process remained incomplete, and the HSC accumulated lipids. JNK activation was induced by stress response-associated inositol-requiring enzyme-1α (IRE1α) in response to Crenolanib treatment, whereas β-catenin-dependent WNT signaling was able to counteract this process. In conclusion, the Crenolanib-mediated inhibition of RTK impeded HSC proliferation and triggered stress responses, initiating developmental processes in HSC that might have contributed to improved recovery from liver fibrosis in TAA-treated rats.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Claus Kordes
- Clinic of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectious Diseases, Heinrich Heine University, Moorenstraße 5, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; (D.R.); (L.A.); (J.P.K.); (T.B.); (T.L.); (D.H.)
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4
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Kang Z, Wang C, Tong Y, Li Y, Gao Y, Hou S, Hao M, Han X, Wang B, Wang Q, Zhang C. Novel Nonsecosteroidal Vitamin D Receptor Modulator Combined with Gemcitabine Enhances Pancreatic Cancer Therapy through Remodeling of the Tumor Microenvironment. J Med Chem 2020; 64:629-643. [PMID: 33381963 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.0c01197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
In a pancreatic tumor microenvironment, activated pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) produce extracellular matrix (ECM) to form a barrier to drug penetration. Moreover, the interaction between cancer cells and activated PSCs promotes the tumor growth. Vitamin D receptor (VDR), as a key regulator to promote the recovery of PSCs to the resting state, is an attractive therapeutic target for pancreatic cancer. Herein, we reported the design and synthesis of 57 nonsecosteroidal VDR modulators based on the skeleton of phenyl-pyrrolyl pentane. Among them, compounds C4, I5, and I8 exhibited excellent VDR affinity and effective inhibition of the activation of PSCs, as well as potent suppression of the interaction between cancer cells and PSCs in vitro. In vivo, compound I5 combined with gemcitabine achieved efficacious antitumor activity without causing hypercalcemia. In conclusion, the compounds designed in our study can remodel the tumor microenvironment and are expected to be candidates for the treatment of pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zisheng Kang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases, Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, P.R. China
| | - Cong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases, Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, P.R. China
| | - Yu Tong
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases, Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, P.R. China
| | - Yanyi Li
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases, Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, P.R. China
| | - Yi Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases, Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, P.R. China
| | - Siyuan Hou
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases, Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, P.R. China
| | - Meixi Hao
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases, Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, P.R. China
| | - Xiaolin Han
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases, Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, P.R. China
| | - Bin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases, Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, P.R. China
| | - Qianqian Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases, Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, P.R. China
| | - Can Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases, Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, P.R. China
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Ren YC, Zhao Q, He Y, Li B, Wu Z, Dai J, Wen L, Wang X, Hu G. Legumain promotes fibrogenesis in chronic pancreatitis via activation of transforming growth factor β1. J Mol Med (Berl) 2020; 98:863-874. [PMID: 32415356 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-020-01911-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2020] [Revised: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 04/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Chronic pancreatitis (CP) is a major risk factor for pancreatic cancer; however, little is known about the pathogenic mechanisms underlying the development of CP. Legumain (Lgmn) has been linked to some chronic inflammatory diseases. The present study investigated the role of legumain in pancreatic fibrogenesis. We induced CP in wild type C57BL6 (WT), Lgmn-deficient (Lgmn-/-), Lgmnflox/flox and Lgmnflox/flox × LysMCre mice by intraperitoneal injection of caerulein for 4 weeks. Pancreata were collected and analyzed by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, Western blotting, and histology. Pancreatic stellate cells and macrophages were isolated and studied using immunofluorescence, gelatin zymography, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The effects of inhibition of legumain were investigated in vivo by administration of the specific legumain inhibitor, RR-11a. Legumain was found to be upregulated in the serum and pancreatic tissues of mice with caerulein-induced CP. Mice with global and macrophage-specific legumain deficiency exhibited significantly reduced development of pancreatic fibrosis compared with control mice, based on pancreas size, histology, and expression of fibrosis-associated genes. Our results indicate that legumain promotes activation of pancreatic stellate cells and increases synthesis of extracellular matrix proteins via activation of matrix metalloproteinase-2(MMP-2), which hydrolyzes the transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) precursor to form active TGF-β1. Administration of RR-11a markedly attenuated pancreatic fibrosis in mice with CP. Deficiency or inhibition of legumain significantly reduces the severity of pancreatic fibrosis by suppressing activation of the TGF-β1 precursor. Our results highlight the potential of legumain as a novel therapeutic target for CP. KEY MESSAGES: • Legumain expression was markedly upregulated in CP mice. • Deletion of legumain attenuated pancreatic fibrosis in CP mice. • Legumain promotes fibrosis via MMP-2 activation, which hydrolyzed the TGF-β1 precursor to the active form. • Legumain is a potential therapeutic target for the management of CP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying-Chun Ren
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 100 Haining Road, Shanghai, 200080, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, Institute of Pancreatic Disease, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200080, China
| | - Qiuyan Zhao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 100 Haining Road, Shanghai, 200080, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, Institute of Pancreatic Disease, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200080, China
| | - Yan He
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 100 Haining Road, Shanghai, 200080, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, Institute of Pancreatic Disease, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200080, China
| | - Bin Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 100 Haining Road, Shanghai, 200080, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, Institute of Pancreatic Disease, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200080, China
| | - Zengkai Wu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 100 Haining Road, Shanghai, 200080, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, Institute of Pancreatic Disease, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200080, China
| | - Juanjuan Dai
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 100 Haining Road, Shanghai, 200080, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, Institute of Pancreatic Disease, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200080, China
| | - Li Wen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 100 Haining Road, Shanghai, 200080, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, Institute of Pancreatic Disease, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200080, China
| | - Xingpeng Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 100 Haining Road, Shanghai, 200080, China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, Institute of Pancreatic Disease, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200080, China.
| | - Guoyong Hu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 100 Haining Road, Shanghai, 200080, China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, Institute of Pancreatic Disease, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200080, China.
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Hu C, Yang J, Su HY, Waldron RT, Zhi M, Li L, Xia Q, Pandol SJ, Lugea A. Yes-Associated Protein 1 Plays Major Roles in Pancreatic Stellate Cell Activation and Fibroinflammatory Responses. Front Physiol 2019; 10:1467. [PMID: 31849712 PMCID: PMC6901825 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2019.01467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2019] [Accepted: 11/14/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Yes-associated protein 1 (YAP), a transcriptional co-activator and major effector of the Hippo pathway, regulates cell differentiation and morphology in many cell types and supports aberrant tumor growth. Recent studies showed that YAP is expressed in pancreas tissues in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) patients and experimental models of PDAC, with YAP largely found in cancer cells and pancreatic stellate cells (PaSC) in the stroma. Methods and Results: We studied here the role of YAP in the activated phenotype of PaSC. We found that YAP is expressed at low levels in normal mouse pancreas, but protein levels significantly increased after pancreas inflammatory damage induced by repeated cerulein administration in wild-type mice or upon initiation of neoplastic transformation of the pancreas parenchyma in Ptf1-Cre;LSL-KrasG12D/+ (KC) mice. In these animal models, YAP upregulation occurred in parallel with activation and proliferation of PaSC. Consistent with these findings, we found robust YAP expression in culture-activated mouse and human PaSC but not in quiescent, freshly isolated cells. Fully activated PaSC isolated from KC mice or PDAC patient tissues exhibited robust nuclear YAP suggesting YAP transcriptional activity. Agents that induce quiescence such as the Bromodomain and Extra-Terminal (BET) inhibitor iBET151 and the p38 MAPK inhibitor SB203580 reduced YAP levels in PaSC. Stimulation of PaSC with the potent mitogen PDGF elicited marked YAP Ser127 phosphorylation. However, unexpectedly, this effect did not diminish YAP nuclear localization, suggesting that YAP phosphorylation at this site does not govern YAP cellular localization in PaSC. siRNA-mediated knockdown of YAP reduced PDGF-induced PaSC expansion in culture and blunted the persistent activation of Akt and ERK elicited by PDGF stimulation, supporting a role for YAP in PDGF-induced cell growth. YAP knockdown also blunted fibroinflammatory gene expression responses both in unstimulated and transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGFβ1)-stimulated PaSC. Conclusion: Our data suggest a central role for YAP in sustaining the activated phenotype and fibroinflammatory responses in PaSC. Moreover, our findings indicate that a complex crosstalk between YAP, TGFβ1, and PDGF pathways regulates PaSC activity and growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Hu
- Department and Laboratory of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Sichuan Provincial Pancreatitis Centre and West China-Liverpool Biomedical Research Centre, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Departments of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Jiayue Yang
- Departments of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Department of Endocrinology, Zhongda Hospital Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hsin-Yuan Su
- Departments of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Richard T. Waldron
- Departments of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Mengmeng Zhi
- Departments of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Department of Endocrinology, Zhongda Hospital Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ling Li
- Department of Endocrinology, Zhongda Hospital Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Qing Xia
- Department and Laboratory of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Sichuan Provincial Pancreatitis Centre and West China-Liverpool Biomedical Research Centre, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Stephen J. Pandol
- Departments of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Aurelia Lugea
- Departments of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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Wang C, Liu Y, He D. Diverse effects of platelet-derived growth factor-BB on cell signaling pathways. Cytokine 2019; 113:13-20. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2018.10.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2018] [Revised: 10/17/2018] [Accepted: 10/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Kuo TL, Cheng KH, Shan YS, Chen LT, Hung WC. β-catenin-activated autocrine PDGF/Src signaling is a therapeutic target in pancreatic cancer. Am J Cancer Res 2019; 9:324-336. [PMID: 30809277 PMCID: PMC6376185 DOI: 10.7150/thno.28201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2018] [Accepted: 12/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
K-ras mutation and p53 loss are the most prevalent genetic alterations in pancreatic cancer. In addition to these two alterations, pancreatic tumors frequently contain a third genetic defect. Mutations in the WNT/ß-catenin signaling molecules occur in 15-20% of pancreatic cancer patients and co-exist with K-ras mutation and p53 loss. However, the contribution of the WNT/ß-catenin pathway in pancreatic tumorigenesis is still unclear. Methods: We generated Pdx1-CreKrasG12Dp53L/+APCL/+ (KPA) mice and compared their phenotypes with Pdx1-CreKrasG12Dp53L/+ (KPC) mice. The signaling pathways specifically activated in the KPA mice were investigated and the therapeutic effect by targeting the activated pathways was evaluated. We finally validated our findings in human blood and tumor samples. Results: Survival of the KPA mice was shorter than that of the KPC mice. The KPA cancer cells are highly invasive and exhibit distorted morphology in organoid culture with extensive invadopodia formation and elevated matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activity. The platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) pathway is upregulated in the KPA cancer cells, and PDGF production induced by ß-catenin triggers constitutive activation of the Src kinase via the PDGF receptor in the cells. Serum PDGF concentration of the KPA mice is much higher than that of the normal and KPC mice. The Src inhibitor dasatinib effectively inhibits tumor growth and metastasis of the KPA cancer cells. Patient's serum PDGF level is significantly correlated with the expression of PDGF and phosphor-Src in tumors and elevated PDGF/phosphor-Src level in tumors predicts increased recurrence and poor survival. Moreover, mutations of the WNT/ß-catenin signaling molecules are higher in patients with elevated PDGF/phosphor-Src level. Conclusion: ß-catenin activation, coupled with K-ras mutation and p53 loss, activates an autocrine PDGF/Src signaling in pancreatic cancer and defines a subset of patients who might be sensitive to Src inhibition. In addition, serum PDGF level could be a reliable biomarker for patient selection in clinic.
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ADAM12 is a circulating marker for stromal activation in pancreatic cancer and predicts response to chemotherapy. Oncogenesis 2018; 7:87. [PMID: 30442938 PMCID: PMC6237826 DOI: 10.1038/s41389-018-0096-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2018] [Revised: 10/09/2018] [Accepted: 10/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is characterized by abundant stroma that harbors tumor-promoting properties. No good biomarkers exist to monitor the effect of stromal targeting therapies or to predict response. We set out to identify such non-invasive markers for PDAC stroma and predict response to therapy. Gene expression datasets, co-culture experiments, xenografts, and patient samples were analyzed. Serum samples were measured from a cohort of 58 resected patients, and 87 metastatic or locally advanced PDAC patients. Baseline and follow-up levels were assessed in 372 additional metastatic PDAC patients who received nab-paclitaxel with gemcitabine (n = 184) or gemcitabine monotherapy (n = 188) in the phase III MPACT trial. Increased levels of ADAM12 were found in PDAC patients compared to healthy controls (p < 0.0001, n = 157 and n = 38). High levels of ADAM12 significantly associated with poor outcome in resected PDAC (HR 2.07, p = 0.04). In the MPACT trial survival was significantly longer for patients who received nab-paclitaxel and had undetectable ADAM12 levels before treatment (OS 12.3 m vs 7.9 m p = 0.0046). Consistently undetectable or decreased ADAM12 levels during treatment significantly associated with longer survival as well (OS 14.4 m and 11.2 m, respectively vs 8.3, p = 0.0054). We conclude that ADAM12 is a blood-borne proxy for stromal activation, the levels of which have prognostic significance and correlate with treatment benefit.
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Xu XF, Liu F, Xin JQ, Fan JW, Wu N, Zhu LJ, Duan LF, Li YY, Zhang H. Respective roles of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) family members in pancreatic stellate cell activation induced by transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1). Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2018; 501:365-373. [PMID: 29705706 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2018.04.176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2018] [Accepted: 04/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Activated pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) play a crucial role in the progression of pancreatic fibrosis. Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) is one of the strongest stimulator inducing fibrosis. The mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) proteins (including ERK, JNK and p38 MAPK) are known to contribute to PSC activation and pancreatic fibrosis. Previous studies have identified PSC activation induced by TGF-β1 is related to MAPK pathway, but the respective role of MAPK family members in PSC activation still unclear, and which family member may be the key mediator in mice PSC activation still controversial. In this study, we investigated the influence of different MAPK family member (JNK, ERK, and p38 MAPK) on mice PSC activation using an in vivo and in vitro model. The results showed p-JNK, p-ERK and p-p38 MAPK were all over-expressed in CP group, and p-JNK, p-ERK, and p-p38 MAPK were co-expressed with activated PSC. In vitro, TGF-β1 induced JNK and ERK over-expression in PSCs. In contrast, p38 MAPK expression in PSC showed only a very weak increase. JNK- and ERK-specific inhibitors inhibited FN and α-SMA mRNA expression in PSCs, and a p38 MAPK inhibitor had no effect on PSC activation. These findings indicate that JNK and ERK were directly involved in the PSCs activation induced by TGF-β1 and the development of pancreatic fibrosis. p38 MAPK participate in the progression of CP, but it does not respond to TGF-β1 directly and may not be regarded as the target of TGF-β1 induced PSC activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Fan Xu
- Medical Experiment Center, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, Shaanxi, 712046, China
| | - Fang Liu
- Basic Medical Academy, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, Shaanxi, 712046, China
| | - Jia-Qi Xin
- Basic Medical Academy, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, Shaanxi, 712046, China
| | - Jian-Wei Fan
- Basic Medical Academy, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, Shaanxi, 712046, China
| | - Nan Wu
- Basic Medical Academy, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, Shaanxi, 712046, China
| | - Lin-Jia Zhu
- Basic Medical Academy, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, Shaanxi, 712046, China
| | - Li-Fang Duan
- Basic Medical Academy, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, Shaanxi, 712046, China
| | - Yong-Yu Li
- Department of Pathophysiology, Institute of Digestive Disease, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China.
| | - Hong Zhang
- Medical Experiment Center, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, Shaanxi, 712046, China; Basic Medical Academy, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, Shaanxi, 712046, China.
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11
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Cullis J, Das S, Bar-Sagi D. Kras and Tumor Immunity: Friend or Foe? Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2018; 8:cshperspect.a031849. [PMID: 29229670 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a031849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
With the recent breakthroughs in immunotherapy as curative treatments in certain tumor types, there has been renewed interest in the relationship between immunity and tumor growth. Although we are gaining a greater understanding of the complex interplay of immune modulating components in the tumor microenvironment, the specific role that tumor cells play in shaping the immune milieu is still not well characterized. In this review, we focus on how mutant Kras tumor cells contribute to tumor immunity, with a specific focus on processes induced directly or indirectly by the oncogene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane Cullis
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York 10016
| | - Shipra Das
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York 10016
| | - Dafna Bar-Sagi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York 10016
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Wiley SZ, Sriram K, Liang W, Chang SE, French R, McCann T, Sicklick J, Nishihara H, Lowy AM, Insel PA. GPR68, a proton-sensing GPCR, mediates interaction of cancer-associated fibroblasts and cancer cells. FASEB J 2018; 32:1170-1183. [PMID: 29092903 PMCID: PMC5892729 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201700834r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2017] [Accepted: 10/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The microenvironment of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is characterized by a dense fibrotic stroma (desmoplasia) generated by pancreatic cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) derived from pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) and pancreatic fibroblasts (PFs). Using an unbiased GPCRomic array approach, we identified 82 G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) commonly expressed by CAFs derived from 5 primary PDAC tumors. Compared with PSCs and PFs, CAFs have increased expression of GPR68 (a proton-sensing GPCR), with the results confirmed by immunoblotting, The Cancer Genome Atlas data, and immunohistochemistry of PDAC tumors. Co-culture of PSCs with PDAC cells, or incubation with TNF-α, induced GPR68 expression. GPR68 activation (by decreasing the extracellular pH) enhanced IL-6 expression via a cAMP/PKA/cAMP response element binding protein signaling pathway. Knockdown of GPR68 by short interfering RNA diminished low pH-induced production of IL-6 and enhancement of PDAC cell proliferation by CAF conditioned media. CAFs from other gastrointestinal cancers also express GPR68. PDAC cells thus induce expression by CAFs of GPR68, which senses the acidic microenvironment, thereby increasing production of fibrotic markers and IL-6 and promoting PDAC cell proliferation. CAF-expressed GPR68 is a mediator of low-pH-promoted regulation of the tumor microenvironments, in particular to PDAC cell-CAF interaction and may be a novel therapeutic target for pancreatic and perhaps other types of cancers.-Wiley, S. Z., Sriram, K., Liang, W., Chang, S. E., French, R., McCann, T., Sicklick, J., Nishihara, H., Lowy, A. M., Insel, P. A. GPR68, a proton-sensing GPCR, mediates interaction of cancer-associated fibroblasts and cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu Z. Wiley
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Krishna Sriram
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Wenjing Liang
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- The Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Sarah E. Chang
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Randall French
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Thalia McCann
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Jason Sicklick
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Hiroshi Nishihara
- Division of Clinical Cancer Genomics, Hokkaido Cancer Center, Shiroishi-ku, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Andrew M. Lowy
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Paul A. Insel
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, USA
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Transforming Growth Factor-β and Bone Morphogenetic Protein 2 Regulation of MicroRNA-200 Family in Chronic Pancreatitis. Pancreas 2018; 47:252-256. [PMID: 29303912 PMCID: PMC5776736 DOI: 10.1097/mpa.0000000000000980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate regulation of microRNA (miR)-200 family (a, b, c, 141, and 429) in chronic pancreatitis (CP). This was accomplished by examining miR-200 family levels in a mouse model in vivo and their regulation in pancreatic cells in vitro. METHODS Chronic pancreatitis was induced by cerulein for 4 weeks (50 μg/kg, 5 hourly intraperitoneal injections/day, and 3 days/week). Control mice received normal saline. The pancreata were harvested for fibrosis assessment by Sirius red staining and for miRNA, collagen, and fibronectin levels by quantitative PCR. In vitro, human primary pancreatic stellate cells and human primary pancreatic fibroblast (hPFBs), and rat pancreatic epithelial AR42J cells were treated with vehicle, transforming growth factor (TGF)-β (1 ng/mL), or BMP2 (50 ng/mL) for 24 hours and then harvested for miRNA analysis. RESULTS In CP, miR-200s were decreased by 56% to 70% and inversely correlated with pancreatic fibrosis, miR-21, and miR-31 (P < 0.05). In vitro, TGF-β inhibited miR-200b in AR42J cells by 62%, whereas BMP2 increased miR-200b in all 3 cell types in a range of 1.5- to 3.4-fold and inhibited miR-21 in hPFBs by 21% (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Both in vivo and in vitro studies suggest an antifibrogenic function of miR-200s in CP. The TGF-β and BMP2 may function through inverse regulation of miR-200b levels.
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Modified Xiaochaihu Decoction () Promotes Collagen Degradation and Inhibits Pancreatic Fibrosis in Chronic Pancreatitis Rats. Chin J Integr Med 2017; 26:599-603. [PMID: 29181733 DOI: 10.1007/s11655-017-2413-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/26/2015] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the effect of Modified Xiaochaihu Decoction (MXD, ) on collagen degradation in rats with chronic pancreatitis (CP). METHODS Rats were injected dibutyltin dichloride (DBTC, 7 mg/kg of body weight) into the right caudal vein to induce CP model. Thirty heallhy male Wistar rats were randomly divided into three groups by a random number table: the control, the model and the treatment groups. Rats of treatment group were administered MXD (10 g/kg of body weight) orally once daily starting from the day post-model establishment. Pancreatic tissues were harvested after 28-day feeding and fibrosis was evaluated by picro-sirius red staining. The contents of collagen type I and III were detected using enzymelinked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), the expression of matrix metalloproteinase 13 (MMP13) and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 1 (TIMP1) was analyzed by Western blot and real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). RESULTS The fibrosis scoring of pancreatic tissues, the concentrations of collagen type I and III, the expression levels of MMP13 and TIMP1 proteins and mRNA in the model group were all increased compared with the control group (P<0.05). After treatment with MXD, the fibrosis scoring of pancreatic tissues, the concentrations of collagen type I and III, the expression levels of MMP13 proteins and mRNA in the teatment group were all decreased compared with the model group (P<0.05), but there were no significant differences in the expression levels of TIMP1 proteins and mRNA (P>0.05). CONCLUSIONS MXD could promote collagen degradation and reverse pancreatic fibrosis in CP rats via a mechanism involve up-regulation of MMP13 expression.
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Kuninty PR, Bojmar L, Tjomsland V, Larsson M, Storm G, Östman A, Sandström P, Prakash J. MicroRNA-199a and -214 as potential therapeutic targets in pancreatic stellate cells in pancreatic tumor. Oncotarget 2017; 7:16396-408. [PMID: 26918939 PMCID: PMC4941323 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.7651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2015] [Accepted: 01/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) are the key precursor cells for cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in pancreatic tumor stroma. In this study, we explored miRNA as therapeutic targets in tumor stroma and found miR-199a-3p and miR-214-3p induced in patient-derived pancreatic CAFs and TGF-β-activated human PSCs (hPSCs). Inhibition of miR-199a/-214 using hairpin inhibitors significantly inhibited TGFβ-induced differentiation markers (e.g. α-SMA, collagen, PDGFβR), migration and proliferation. Furthermore, heterospheroids of Panc-1 and hPSCs attained smaller size with hPSCs transfected with anti-miR-199a/-214 compared to control anti-miR. The conditioned medium obtained from TGFβ-activated hPSCs induced tumor cell growth and endothelial cell tube formation. Interestingly, these inductions were abrogated in hPSCs transfected with anti-miR-199a or miR-214. Moreover, IPA analyses revealed signaling pathways related to miR-199a (TP53, mTOR, Smad1) and miR-214 (PTEN, Bax, ING4). Taken together, this study reveals miR-199a-3p and miR-214-3p as major regulators of PSC activation and PSC-induced pro-tumoral effects, representing them as key therapeutic targets in pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Praneeth R Kuninty
- Department of Biomaterials, Science and Technology, Section: Targeted Therapeutics, MIRA Institute for Biomedical Technology and Technical Medicine, University of Twente, Twente, Netherlands
| | - Linda Bojmar
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden.,Department of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Vegard Tjomsland
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden.,Department of Hepato-pancreato-biliary Surgery, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Marie Larsson
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Gert Storm
- Department of Biomaterials, Science and Technology, Section: Targeted Therapeutics, MIRA Institute for Biomedical Technology and Technical Medicine, University of Twente, Twente, Netherlands.,Department of Pharmaceutics, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Arne Östman
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Cancer Centre Karolinska, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska, Sweden
| | - Per Sandström
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Jai Prakash
- Department of Biomaterials, Science and Technology, Section: Targeted Therapeutics, MIRA Institute for Biomedical Technology and Technical Medicine, University of Twente, Twente, Netherlands.,Department of Oncology-Pathology, Cancer Centre Karolinska, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska, Sweden
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16
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Allam A, Thomsen AR, Gothwal M, Saha D, Maurer J, Brunner TB. Pancreatic stellate cells in pancreatic cancer: In focus. Pancreatology 2017; 17:514-522. [PMID: 28601475 DOI: 10.1016/j.pan.2017.05.390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2016] [Revised: 05/23/2017] [Accepted: 05/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic stellate cells are stromal cells that have multiple physiological functions such as the production of extracellular matrix, stimulation of amylase secretion, phagocytosis and immunity. In pancreatic cancer, stellate cells exhibit a different myofibroblastic-like morphology with the expression of alpha-smooth muscle actin, the activated form is engaged in several mechanisms that support tumorigenesis and cancer invasion and progression. In contrast to the aforementioned observations, eliminating the stromal cells that are positive for alpha-smooth muscle actin resulted in immune-evasion of the cancer cells and resulted in worse prognosis in animal models. Understanding the cancer-stromal signaling in pancreatic adenocarcinoma will provide novel strategies for therapy. Here we provide an updated review of studies that handle the topic "pancreatic stellate cells in cancer" and recent experimental approaches that can be the base for future directions in therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Allam
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Germany; Clinical Oncology and Nuclear Medicine Department, Assiut University Hospitals, Egypt
| | - A R Thomsen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Germany; German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Freiburg, Germany; German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - M Gothwal
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Germany; German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Freiburg, Germany; German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - D Saha
- Department of Visceral Surgery, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Germany
| | - J Maurer
- Department of Visceral Surgery, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Germany; German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Freiburg, Germany; German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - T B Brunner
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Germany; German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Freiburg, Germany; German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.
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17
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Muller S, Klingbeil SM, Sandica A, Jaster R. Uncoupling protein 2 deficiency reduces proliferative capacity of murine pancreatic stellate cells. Hepatobiliary Pancreat Dis Int 2016; 15:647-654. [PMID: 27919855 DOI: 10.1016/s1499-3872(16)60154-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Uncoupling protein 2 (UCP2) has been suggested to inhibit mitochondrial production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by decreasing the mitochondrial membrane potential. Experimental acute pancreatitis is associated with increased UCP2 expression, whereas UCP2 deficiency retards regeneration of aged mice from acute pancreatitis. Here, we have addressed biological and molecular functions of UCP2 in pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs), which are involved in pancreatic wound repair and fibrogenesis. METHODS PSCs were isolated from 12 months old (aged) UCP2-/- mice and animals of the wild-type (WT) strain C57BL/6. Proliferation and cell death were assessed by employing trypan blue staining and a 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine incorporation assay. Intracellular fat droplets were visualized by oil red O staining. Levels of mRNA were determined by RT-PCR, while protein expression was analyzed by immunoblotting and immunofluorescence analysis. Intracellular ROS levels were measured with 2', 7'-dichlorofluorescin diacetate. Expression of senescence-associated beta-galactosidase (SA beta-Gal) was used as a surrogate marker of cellular senescence. RESULTS PSCs derived from UCP2-/- mice proliferated at a lower rate than cells from WT mice. In agreement with this observation, the UCP2 inhibitor genipin displayed dose-dependent inhibitory effects on WT PSC growth. Interestingly, ROS levels in PSCs did not differ between the two strains, and PSCs derived from UCP2-/- mice did not senesce faster than those from corresponding WT cells. PSCs from UCP2-/- mice and WT animals were also indistinguishable with respect to the activation-dependent loss of intracellular fat droplets, expression of the activation marker alpha-smooth muscle actin, type I collagen and the autocrine/paracrine mediators interleukin-6 and transforming growth factor-beta1. CONCLUSIONS A reduced proliferative capacity of PSC from aged UCP2-/- mice may contribute to the retarded regeneration after acute pancreatitis. Apart from their slower growth, PSC of UCP2-/- mice displayed no functional abnormalities. The antifibrotic potential of UCP2 inhibitors deserves further attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Muller
- Department of Medicine II, Division of Gastroenterology, Rostock University Medical Center, E.-Heydemann-Str. 6, 18057 Rostock, Germany.
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Fukumoto T, Watanabe T, Hirai I, Kimura W. Pancreatic volume is one of the independent prognostic factors for resectable pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas. JOURNAL OF HEPATO-BILIARY-PANCREATIC SCIENCES 2016; 23:472-9. [PMID: 27246905 DOI: 10.1002/jhbp.365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2016] [Accepted: 05/27/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is well known that pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is accompanied with pancreatic atrophy and fibrosis. We previously reported the correlation between pancreatic volume and body surface area (BSA) and significant reduction of BSA-adjusted pancreatic volume in pancreatic cancer patients. We evaluated potential correlation between BSA-adjusted pancreatic volume and PDAC prognosis. METHODS The study subjects were 48 pancreatic cancer patients received pancreatectomy at our department from June 2006 to September 2012. Pancreatic volumetry was retrospectively performed using the images obtained from multidetector computed tomography before the surgery. BSA-adjusted pancreatic volumes were calculated and analyzed for potential correlation with the prognosis. RESULTS Average BSA-adjusted pancreatic volume among 48 cases was 35.4 ± 11.9 ml/m(2) . Types of surgery included 24 cases with pancreaticoduodenectomy and 24 cases with distal pancreatectomy. The cases with BSA-adjusted pancreatic volume less than 40 ml/m(2) had significantly poorer prognosis compared to the cases of 40 ml/m(2) and greater (3-year survival rate: 32.4% vs. 64.3%). Statistical analysis identified four prognosis factors, i.e. BSA-adjusted pancreatic volume less than 40 ml/m(2) , postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy, lymph node metastasis and lymphatic invasion. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrated BSA-adjusted pancreatic volume as a prognosis factor for PDAC and the volume of 40 ml/m(2) is considered to be the cutoff value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsuyoshi Fukumoto
- First Department of Surgery, Yamagata University Faculty of Medicine, 2-2-2 Iida-Nishi, Yamagata City, Yamagata, 990-9585, Japan
| | - Toshihiro Watanabe
- First Department of Surgery, Yamagata University Faculty of Medicine, 2-2-2 Iida-Nishi, Yamagata City, Yamagata, 990-9585, Japan
| | - Ichiro Hirai
- First Department of Surgery, Yamagata University Faculty of Medicine, 2-2-2 Iida-Nishi, Yamagata City, Yamagata, 990-9585, Japan
| | - Wataru Kimura
- First Department of Surgery, Yamagata University Faculty of Medicine, 2-2-2 Iida-Nishi, Yamagata City, Yamagata, 990-9585, Japan.
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Birtolo C, Go VLW, Ptasznik A, Eibl G, Pandol SJ. Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase: A Link Between Inflammation and Pancreatic Cancer. Pancreas 2016; 45:21-31. [PMID: 26658038 PMCID: PMC4859755 DOI: 10.1097/mpa.0000000000000531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Even though a strong association between inflammation and cancer has been widely accepted, the underlying precise molecular mechanisms are still largely unknown. A complex signaling network between tumor and stromal cells is responsible for the infiltration of inflammatory cells into the cancer microenvironment. Tumor stromal cells such as pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) and immune cells create a microenvironment that protects cancer cells through a complex interaction, ultimately facilitating their local proliferation and their migration to different sites. Furthermore, PSCs have multiple functions related to local immunity, angiogenesis, inflammation, and fibrosis. Recently, many studies have shown that members of the phosphoinositol-3-phosphate kinase (PI3K) family are activated in tumor cells, PSCs, and tumor-infiltrating inflammatory cells to promote cancer growth. Proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines secreted by immune cells and fibroblasts within the tumor environment can activate the PI3K pathway both in cancer and inflammatory cells. In this review, we focus on the central role of the PI3K pathway in regulating the cross talk between immune/stromal cells and cancer cells. Understanding the role of the PI3K pathway in the development of chronic pancreatitis and cancer is crucial for the discovery of novel and efficacious treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Birtolo
- Department of Medicine, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA,Department of Internal Medicine, S. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, University of Bologna, Italy
| | - Vay Liang W. Go
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Andrzej Ptasznik
- Department of Medicine, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Guido Eibl
- Department of Surgery, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Stephen J. Pandol
- Department of Medicine, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA,VA Greater Los Angeles Health Care System, Los Angeles, CA
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Pathogenesis of Type 2 Epithelial to Mesenchymal Transition (EMT) in Renal and Hepatic Fibrosis. J Clin Med 2015; 5:jcm5010004. [PMID: 26729181 PMCID: PMC4730129 DOI: 10.3390/jcm5010004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2015] [Revised: 12/22/2015] [Accepted: 12/24/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), particularly, type 2 EMT, is important in progressive renal and hepatic fibrosis. In this process, incompletely regenerated renal epithelia lose their epithelial characteristics and gain migratory mesenchymal qualities as myofibroblasts. In hepatic fibrosis (importantly, cirrhosis), the process also occurs in injured hepatocytes and hepatic progenitor cells (HPCs), as well as ductular reaction-related bile epithelia. Interestingly, the ductular reaction contributes partly to hepatocarcinogenesis of HPCs, and further, regenerating cholangiocytes after injury may be derived from hepatic stellate cells via mesenchymal to epithelia transition, a reverse phenomenon of type 2 EMT. Possible pathogenesis of type 2 EMT and its differences between renal and hepatic fibrosis are reviewed based on our experimental data.
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Renal fibrosis is not reduced by blocking transforming growth factor-β signaling in matrix-producing interstitial cells. Kidney Int 2015; 88:503-14. [PMID: 25760325 PMCID: PMC4556568 DOI: 10.1038/ki.2015.51] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2014] [Revised: 12/29/2014] [Accepted: 01/02/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) strongly promotes renal tubulointerstitial fibrosis, but the cellular target that mediates its profibrotic actions has not been clearly identified. While in vitro data suggest that TGF-β-induced matrix production is mediated by renal fibroblasts, the role of these cells in TGF-β-dependent tubulointerstitial fibrosis following renal injury is not well defined. To address this, we deleted the TGF-β type II receptor in matrix-producing interstitial cells using two different inducible Cre models: COL1A2-Cre with a mesenchymal enhancer element and tenascin-Cre which targets medullary interstitial cells and either the mouse unilateral ureteral obstruction or aristolochic acid renal injury model. Renal interstitial cells lacking the TGF-β receptor had significantly impaired collagen I production, but unexpectedly, overall tissue fibrosis was unchanged in the conditional knockouts after renal injury. Thus, abrogating TGF-β signaling in matrix-producing interstitial cells is not sufficient to reduce fibrosis after renal injury.
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22
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McCarroll JA, Naim S, Sharbeen G, Russia N, Lee J, Kavallaris M, Goldstein D, Phillips PA. Role of pancreatic stellate cells in chemoresistance in pancreatic cancer. Front Physiol 2014; 5:141. [PMID: 24782785 PMCID: PMC3988387 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2014.00141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2014] [Accepted: 03/24/2014] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is highly chemoresistant. A major contributing factor is the characteristic extensive stromal or fibrotic reaction, which comprises up to 90% of the tumor volume. Over the last decade there has been intensive research into the role of the pro-fibrogenic pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) and their interaction with pancreatic cancer cells. As a result of the significant alterations in the tumor microenvironment following activation of PSCs, tumor progression, and chemoresistance is enhanced. This review will discuss how PSCs contribute to chemoresistance in pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua A McCarroll
- Tumour Biology and Targeting Program, Lowy Cancer Research Centre, Children's Cancer Institute Australia, University of New South Wales Sydney, NSW, Australia ; Australian Centre for Nanomedicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Stephanie Naim
- Pancreatic Cancer Translational Research Group, Lowy Cancer Research Centre, Prince of Wales Clinical School, University of New South Wales Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - George Sharbeen
- Pancreatic Cancer Translational Research Group, Lowy Cancer Research Centre, Prince of Wales Clinical School, University of New South Wales Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Nelson Russia
- Pancreatic Cancer Translational Research Group, Lowy Cancer Research Centre, Prince of Wales Clinical School, University of New South Wales Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Julia Lee
- Pancreatic Cancer Translational Research Group, Lowy Cancer Research Centre, Prince of Wales Clinical School, University of New South Wales Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Maria Kavallaris
- Tumour Biology and Targeting Program, Lowy Cancer Research Centre, Children's Cancer Institute Australia, University of New South Wales Sydney, NSW, Australia ; Australian Centre for Nanomedicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - David Goldstein
- Pancreatic Cancer Translational Research Group, Lowy Cancer Research Centre, Prince of Wales Clinical School, University of New South Wales Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Phoebe A Phillips
- Pancreatic Cancer Translational Research Group, Lowy Cancer Research Centre, Prince of Wales Clinical School, University of New South Wales Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Gao X, Cao Y, Staloch DA, Gonzales MA, Aronson JF, Chao C, Hellmich MR, Ko TC. Bone morphogenetic protein signaling protects against cerulein-induced pancreatic fibrosis. PLoS One 2014; 9:e89114. [PMID: 24586530 PMCID: PMC3931685 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0089114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2013] [Accepted: 01/15/2014] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) have an anti-fibrogenic function in the kidney, lung, and liver. However, their role in chronic pancreatitis (CP) is unknown. The aim of this study was to define the anti-fibrogenic role of BMP signaling in the pancreas in vivo under CP induction. Mice with a deletion of BMP type II receptor (BMPR2+/−) were used in this study in comparison with wild-type mice. CP was induced by repetitive cerulein injection intraperitoneally for 4 weeks, and the severity of CP was evaluated. Pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) were isolated from the mice and treated with BMP2 and TGF-β in vitro, and extracellular matrix protein (ECM) production was measured. Smad and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling was also evaluated. BMPR2+/− mice revealed a greater pancreatic fibrosis, PSC activation and leukocyte infiltration after CP induction compared to wild-type mice (P<0.05). Under CP induction, phospho (p)Smad1/5/8 was elevated in wild-type mice and this effect was abolished in BMPR2+/− mice; pSmad2 and pp38MAPK were further enhanced in BMPR2+/− mice compared to wild-type mice (P<0.05). In vitro, BMP2 inhibited TGF-β-induced ECM protein fibronectin production in wild-type PSCs; this effect was abolished in BMPR2+/− PSCs (P<0.05). In BMPR2+/− PSCs, pSmad1/5/8 level was barely detectable upon BMP2 stimulation, while pSmad2 level was further enhanced by TGF-β stimulation, compared to wild-type PSCs (P<0.05). BMPR2/Smad1/5/8 signaling plays a protective role against cerulein-induced pancreatic fibrosis by inhibiting Smad2 and p38MAPK signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuxia Gao
- Department of Surgery, The University of Texas Health Science Center-Houston, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Yanna Cao
- Department of Surgery, The University of Texas Health Science Center-Houston, Houston, Texas, United States of America
- Department of Surgery, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Dustin A. Staloch
- Department of Surgery, The University of Texas Health Science Center-Houston, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Michael A. Gonzales
- Department of Surgery, The University of Texas Health Science Center-Houston, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Judith F. Aronson
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Celia Chao
- Department of Surgery, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Mark R. Hellmich
- Department of Surgery, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Tien C. Ko
- Department of Surgery, The University of Texas Health Science Center-Houston, Houston, Texas, United States of America
- Department of Surgery, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Effect of antioxidant supplementation on surrogate markers of fibrosis in chronic pancreatitis: a randomized, placebo-controlled trial. Pancreas 2013; 42:589-95. [PMID: 23531998 DOI: 10.1097/mpa.0b013e31826dc2d7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to determine the effect of antioxidant (AO) supplementation on surrogate markers of fibrosis in patients with chronic pancreatitis (CP). METHODS In a randomized, placebo (PL)-controlled trial, patients with CP were randomized to groups that were given PL or AO for 3 months. Outcome measures were change in serum levels of transforming growth factor β1 and platelet-derived growth factor AA (PDGF-AA) (primary outcome) as well as blood markers of oxidative stress (thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances) and AO status (ferric-reducing ability of plasma) (secondary outcome). Pain relief and analgesic requirement was also recorded. RESULTS Patients (n = 61; mean [SD] age, 35.2 [10.0]; male patients, 43) were assigned to AO (n = 31) and PL (n = 30) groups. The median (range) percent reduction from baseline to 3 months in levels of PDGF-AA (17.1% [-25.3% to 88.7%] vs 2.8% [-243.1% to 30.2%]; P = 0.001), transforming growth factor β1 (P = 0.573), and thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (P = 0.207) as well as percent increment from baseline to 3 months in ferric-reducing ability of plasma (P = 0.003) were higher in the AO group compared with the PL group. Proportion of patients who had both reduced PDGF-AA and reduced pain was greater in AO as compared with PL group (17/31 vs 9/30, P = 0.05) CONCLUSIONS Reduction in markers of fibrosis (PDGF-AA) translated into clinical outcome (reduction in pain and analgesic requirements) in those supplemented with AOs in CP (trial registration, CTRI/2011/05/001747).
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Gao X, Cao Y, Yang W, Duan C, Aronson JF, Rastellini C, Chao C, Hellmich MR, Ko TC. BMP2 inhibits TGF-β-induced pancreatic stellate cell activation and extracellular matrix formation. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2013; 304:G804-13. [PMID: 23429583 PMCID: PMC3652003 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00306.2012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Activation of pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) by transforming growth factor (TGF)-β is the key step in the development of pancreatic fibrosis, a common pathological feature of chronic pancreatitis (CP). Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), members of the TGF-β superfamily, have anti-fibrogenic functions, in contrast to TGF-β, in the kidney, lung, and liver. However, it is not known whether BMPs have an anti-fibrogenic role in the pancreas. The current study was designed to investigate the potential anti-fibrogenic role of BMPs in the pancreas using an in vivo CP model and an in vitro PSC model. CP was induced by repetitive intraperitoneal injections of cerulein in adult Swiss Webster mice. The control mice received saline injections. Compared with the control, cerulein injections induced a time-dependent increase in acinar injury and progression of fibrosis and a steady increase in inflammation. Cerulein injections also induced increases of the extracellular matrix (ECM) protein fibronectin and of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA)-positive stellate cells (PSCs). The mice receiving cerulein injections showed increased BMP2 protein levels and phosphorylated Smad1 levels up to 4 wk and then declined at 8 wk to similar levels as the control. In vitro, the isolated mouse and human PSCs were cultured and pretreated with BMP2 followed by TGF-β treatment. BMP2 pretreatment inhibited TGF-β-induced α-SMA, fibronectin, and collagen type Ia expression. Knocking down Smad1 with small-interfering RNA reversed the inhibitory effect of BMP2 on TGF-β-induced α-SMA and fibronectin expression. Thus, BMP2 opposes the fibrogenic function of TGF-β in PSCs through the Smad1 signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuxia Gao
- 1Department of Surgery, University of Texas Health Science Center-Houston, Houston, Texas;
| | - Yanna Cao
- 1Department of Surgery, University of Texas Health Science Center-Houston, Houston, Texas; ,3Department of Surgery, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas
| | - Wenli Yang
- 1Department of Surgery, University of Texas Health Science Center-Houston, Houston, Texas;
| | - Chaojun Duan
- 1Department of Surgery, University of Texas Health Science Center-Houston, Houston, Texas;
| | - Judith F. Aronson
- 2Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas; and
| | | | - Celia Chao
- 3Department of Surgery, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas
| | - Mark R. Hellmich
- 3Department of Surgery, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas
| | - Tien C. Ko
- 1Department of Surgery, University of Texas Health Science Center-Houston, Houston, Texas; ,3Department of Surgery, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas
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Kong X, Li L, Li Z, Xie K. Targeted destruction of the orchestration of the pancreatic stroma and tumor cells in pancreatic cancer cases: molecular basis for therapeutic implications. Cytokine Growth Factor Rev 2012; 23:343-56. [PMID: 22749856 PMCID: PMC3505269 DOI: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2012.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2012] [Accepted: 06/07/2012] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is one of the most lethal malignancies, with a prominent desmoplastic reaction as its defining hallmark. The past several decades have seen dramatic progress in understanding of pancreatic cancer pathogenesis, including identification of precursor lesions, sequential transformation from normal pancreatic tissue to invasive pancreatic cancer and corresponding signature genetic events, and the biological impact of these events on malignant behavior. However, the currently used therapeutic strategies for epithelial tumor cells, which have exhibited potent antitumor activity in cell culture and animal models, have failed to produce significant effects in the clinic. The desmoplastic stroma surrounding pancreatic cancer cells, which accounts for about 90% of a tumor's mass, clearly is not a passive scaffold for cancer cells but an active contributor to carcinogenesis. Improved understanding of the dynamic interaction between cancer cells and the stroma will be important to designing effective therapeutic strategies for pancreatic cancer. This review focuses on the origin of stromal molecular and cellular components in pancreatic tumors, their biological effects on pancreatic cancer cells, and the orchestration of these two components.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangyu Kong
- Department of Gastroenterology, Changhai Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, The People’s Republic of China
| | - Lei Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Changhai Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, The People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhaoshen Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Changhai Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, The People’s Republic of China
| | - Keping Xie
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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Adrych K, Stojek M, Smoczynski M, Sledzinski T, Sylwia SW, Swierczynski J. Increased serum chemerin concentration in patients with chronic pancreatitis. Dig Liver Dis 2012; 44:393-7. [PMID: 21798828 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2011.06.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2010] [Revised: 06/03/2011] [Accepted: 06/24/2011] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chemerin is a potent chemoattractant for chemokine-like receptor 1 expressing cells and is involved in inflammatory and immune processes that play an important role in chronic pancreatitis. AIM To test the hypothesis that serum chemerin concentration may be affected in chronic pancreatitis patients and that chemerin can influence the course of chronic pancreatitis by increasing profibrotic cytokine production. METHODS Serum concentrations of chemerin and the major cytokines involved in pancreatic fibrosis such as platelet-derived growth factor BB and transforming growth factor β-1 were determined by ELISA in samples from 40 nondiabetic and 28 diabetic male patients with chronic pancreatitis of alcoholic origin and 40 age-matched healthy controls. RESULTS Serum concentrations of chemerin were increased both in nondiabetic and diabetic chronic pancreatitis patients compared to controls. Moreover, in chronic pancreatitis patients a positive correlation was found between serum chemerin and platelet-derived growth factor BB as well as transforming growth factor β-1 concentrations. CONCLUSIONS The results indicate for the first time that: (a) chronic pancreatitis in humans is associated with an increased serum chemerin concentration and (b) serum chemerin concentration correlates with serum concentrations of the major profibrotic cytokines. Elevated level of chemerin, by stimulating macrophage infiltration of the pancreas, might lead to overproduction of platelet-derived growth factor BB and transforming growth factor β-1 and, consequently, to pancreatic fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krystian Adrych
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Medical University of Gdansk, Gdansk, Poland
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28
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Adrych K, Smoczynski M, Stojek M, Sledzinski T, Korczynska J, Goyke E, Swierczynski J. Coordinated increase in serum platelet-derived growth factor-BB and transforming growth factor-β1 in patients with chronic pancreatitis. Pancreatology 2011; 11:434-40. [PMID: 21921666 DOI: 10.1159/000330294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2010] [Accepted: 06/22/2011] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In vitro studies suggest that platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB) and transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) play an important role in pancreatic fibrosis. The aim of this study was to evaluate serum PDGF-BB and TGF-β1 concentrations in patients with chronic pancreatitis (CP). METHODS Forty male patients with a history of alcoholic CP and 35 age-matched healthy subjects were examined. Serum concentrations of PDGF-BB, TGF-β1, laminin and hyaluronic acid were determined by ELISA assay. Additionally, we determined serum concentrations of PDGF-BB and TGF-β1 in patients with functional dyspepsia, ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. RESULTS Patients with advanced CP had significantly higher serum PDGF-BB and TGF-β1 concentrations compared to control subjects. A strong positive correlation between serum PDGF-BB and TGF-β1 concentrations was found in patients with CP. Serum laminin and hyaluronic acid were also elevated in patients with CP. No increase in serum PDGF-BB and TGF-β1 concentrations was found in patients with functional dyspepsia, ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease. CONCLUSION The obtained results indicate for the first time that serum levels of PDGF-BB are elevated in patients with CP. However, ROC curve analysis suggests that PDGF-BB is not superior to laminin as a potential marker of advanced CP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krystian Adrych
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Medical University of Gdansk, Gdansk, Poland
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Berna MJ, Seiz O, Nast JF, Benten D, Bläker M, Koch J, Lohse AW, Pace A. CCK1 and CCK2 receptors are expressed on pancreatic stellate cells and induce collagen production. J Biol Chem 2010; 285:38905-14. [PMID: 20843811 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m110.125534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The gastrointestinal hormone cholecystokinin (CCK) can induce acute pancreatitis in rodents through its action on acinar cells. Treatment with CCK, in combination with other agents, represents the most commonly used model to induce experimental chronic pancreatitis. Pancreatic stellate cells (PSC) are responsible for pancreatic fibrosis and therefore play a predominant role in the genesis of chronic pancreatitis. However, it is not known whether PSC express CCK receptors. Using real time PCR techniques, we demonstrate that CCK1 and CCK2 receptors are expressed on rat PSC. Interestingly both CCK and gastrin significantly induced type I collagen synthesis. Moreover, both inhibit proliferation. These effects are comparable with TGF-β-stimulated PSC. Furthermore, the natural agonists CCK and gastrin induce activation of pro-fibrogenic pathways Akt, ERK, and Src. Using specific CCK1 and CCK2 receptor (CCK2R) inhibitors, we found that Akt activation is mainly mediated by CCK2R. Akt activation by CCK and gastrin could be inhibited by the PI3K inhibitor wortmannin. Activation of ERK and the downstream target Elk-1 could be inhibited by the MEK inhibitor U0126. These data suggest that CCK and gastrin have direct activating effects on PSC, are able to induce collagen synthesis in these cells, and therefore appear to be important regulators of pancreatic fibrogenesis. Furthermore, similar to TGF-β, both CCK and gastrin inhibit proliferation in PSC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc J Berna
- Universitätsklinikum Eppendorf, Medizinische Klinik I, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
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Patel P, West-Mays J, Kolb M, Rodrigues JC, Hoff CM, Margetts PJ. Platelet derived growth factor B and epithelial mesenchymal transition of peritoneal mesothelial cells. Matrix Biol 2009; 29:97-106. [PMID: 19896531 DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2009.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2009] [Revised: 10/28/2009] [Accepted: 10/29/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Platelet derived growth factor (PDGF) is involved in wound healing in various organ systems. Its potential role in the context of peritoneal injury following long-term peritoneal dialysis is unclear. We used an adenovirus expressing the B chain of PDGF (AdPDGF-B) to assess its effect on pro-fibrotic pathways in the peritoneal membrane. To assess the transforming growth factor (TGF) beta independent effects of PDGF, we over-expressed PDGF-B in the peritoneum of either wild-type mice (Smad3+/+) or those with a deletion of the TGFbeta signaling protein Smad3 (Smad3(-/-)). PDGF-B induced sustained angiogenesis in both Smad3+/+ and Smad3(-/-) mice. Despite increased collagen gene expression, collagen accumulation was transient and fibrogenesis was associated with induction of collagenase activity. We observed epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) involving the peritoneal mesothelial cells, as shown by increased SNAIL and decreased E-Cadherin expression with evidence of mesothelial cells expressing both epithelial and mesenchymal markers. Unlike TGFbeta-induced EMT, PDGF-B exposure did not lead to mobilization of the mesothelial cells; they remained as a single monolayer throughout the observation period. This "non-invasive" EMT phenomenon is a novel finding and may have implications concerning the role of EMT in peritoneal fibrosis and injury to other organ systems. The observed effects were similar in Smad3(-/-) and Smad3+/+ animals, suggesting that the PDGF-B effects were independent of TGFbeta or Smad signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pranali Patel
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Division of Nephrology, St. Joseph's Hospital, 50 Charlton Ave E, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada L8P4A6
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Blaine SA, Ray KC, Branch KM, Robinson PS, Whitehead RH, Means AL. Epidermal growth factor receptor regulates pancreatic fibrosis. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2009; 297:G434-41. [PMID: 19608732 PMCID: PMC2739824 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00152.2009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
The development of pancreatic fibrosis has been shown to be a major component in several diseases of the pancreas including pancreatic cancer, chronic pancreatitis, and type 2 diabetes mellitus, but its actual role in the progression of these disorders is still unknown. This fibrosis is characterized by stromal expansion and the excessive deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) that replaces pancreatic tissue. This eventually leads to dysregulation of ECM turnover, production of cytokines, restriction of blood flow, and often exocrine and endocrine insufficiencies. Activated pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) have been identified as key mediators in the progression of pancreatic fibrosis, serving as the predominant source of excess ECM proteins. Previously, we found that overexpression of the growth factor heparin-binding epidermal growth factor-like growth factor (HB-EGF) in pancreatic islets led to intraislet fibrosis. HB-EGF binds to and activates two receptors, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and ErbB4, as well as heparin moieties and CD9/DRAP27. To understand the mechanism underlying the induction of fibrogenesis by HB-EGF, we utilized a hypomorphic allele of Egfr, the Waved-2 allele, to demonstrate that EGFR signaling regulates fibrogenesis in vivo. Using an in vitro cell migration assay, we show that HB-EGF regulates both chemoattraction and stimulation of proliferation of PSCs via EGFR activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stacy A. Blaine
- Departments of Surgery, Medicine, and Cell and Developmental Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Kevin C. Ray
- Departments of Surgery, Medicine, and Cell and Developmental Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Kevin M. Branch
- Departments of Surgery, Medicine, and Cell and Developmental Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Pamela S. Robinson
- Departments of Surgery, Medicine, and Cell and Developmental Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Robert H. Whitehead
- Departments of Surgery, Medicine, and Cell and Developmental Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Anna L. Means
- Departments of Surgery, Medicine, and Cell and Developmental Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee
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Ito I, Fixman ED, Asai K, Yoshida M, Gounni AS, Martin JG, Hamid Q. Platelet-derived growth factor and transforming growth factor-beta modulate the expression of matrix metalloproteinases and migratory function of human airway smooth muscle cells. Clin Exp Allergy 2009; 39:1370-80. [PMID: 19522858 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2222.2009.03293.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinase (TIMPs) have been suggested to be involved in the pathogenesis of asthma. Their expression in airway smooth muscle (ASM) cells could be involved in collagen turnover and migration of these cells and thus may contribute to airway remodelling. OBJECTIVE To examine the effect of pro-fibrotic growth factors TGF-beta and platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) on the expression of MMPs/TIMPs in cultured human ASM cells and to examine the role of MMP in the migration of ASM cells. METHODS ASM cells were stimulated with TGF-beta and/or PDGF. Expression and activity of MMP-1, MMP-2, MMP-3, TIMP-1 and TIMP-2 were evaluated by quantitative RT-PCR, Western blot and zymography. Modified Boyden-chamber migration assay was performed to investigate the effect of secreted MMP-3 and TIMP-1 on ASM-cell migration. RESULTS PDGF strongly up-regulated the expression of MMP-1 at mRNA and protein levels. PDGF, when combined with TGF-beta, caused synergistic up-regulation of MMP-3. TIMP-1 was additively up-regulated by TGF-beta and PDGF. These growth factors had no effect on the expression of MMP-2 and TIMP-2. U0126, an extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) pathway inhibitor, inhibited the up-regulation of MMP-1 by PDGF. The synergistic/additive up-regulation of MMP-3 and TIMP-1 was inhibited by U0126 and SB431542, a Smad pathway inhibitor. Supernatant from ASM cells in which MMP-3 production was knocked down by RNA interference showed a decreased migratory effect on ASM cells, whereas supernatant from cells with suppressed TIMP-1 expression resulted in increased migration. CONCLUSION Our results suggest that PDGF with/without TGF-beta could facilitate migration of ASM cells by modification of MMP-TIMP balance through the ERK pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Ito
- Meakins-Christie Laboratories, Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
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Rezaei A, Ardestani SK, Forouzandeh M, Tavangar SM, Khorramizadeh MR, Payabvash S, Nezami BG, Jahanshiri Z, Tavakoli Z, Shariftabrizi A, Dehpour AR. The effects of N-acetylcysteine on the expression of matrix metalloproteinase-2 and tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase-2 in hepatic fibrosis in bile duct ligated rats. Hepatol Res 2008; 38:1252-63. [PMID: 18713279 DOI: 10.1111/j.1872-034x.2008.00393.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
AIM N-acetylcysteine can inhibit the formation of intracellular reactive oxygen intermediates. Cellular redox state plays a role in regulating the secretion of matrix metalloproteinase-2. We investigated the effects of N-acetylcysteine on the expression of matrix metalloproteinase-2 and tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase-2. METHODS Bile duct ligated rats were used as a model of hepatic fibrosis. We compared the level of gene expression (using real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction [RT-PCR]), liver function parameters, hepatic reactive oxygen production, lipid peroxidation and glutathione state in experimental groups. RESULTS N-acetylcysteine treatment significantly improved liver function parameters including the plasma levels of aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase and bilirubin. In addition, significant improvement of glutathione state and reactive oxygen production were observed. Hepatic lipid peroxidation was reversed by N-acetylcysteine treatment. Although N-acetylcysteine treatment did not completely normalize the increased matrix metalloproteinase-2 expression, it significantly decreased its level by 65%. N-acetylcysteine treatment also significantly decreased matrix metalloproteinase-2 activity and normalized tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase-2 expression. CONCLUSION Collectively, N-acetylcysteine showed inhibition of matrix metalloproteinase-2 expression and activity. In addition, administration of N-acetylcysteine was associated with downregulation of the expression of tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase-2 and amelioration of oxidative stress in the liver of bile duct ligated rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arezou Rezaei
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Tehran University, Tehran, Iran
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Lee H, Lim C, Lee J, Kim N, Bang S, Lee H, Min B, Park G, Noda M, Stetler-Stevenson WG, Oh J. TGF-beta signaling preserves RECK expression in activated pancreatic stellate cells. J Cell Biochem 2008; 104:1065-74. [PMID: 18300271 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.21692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Activated pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of pancreatic fibrosis, but the detailed mechanism for dysregulated accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) remains unclear. Cultured rat PSCs become activated by profibrogenic mediators, but these mediators failed to alter the expression levels of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) to the endogenous tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs). Here, we examined the expression of RECK, a novel membrane-anchored MMP inhibitor, in PSCs. Although RECK mRNA levels were largely unchanged, RECK protein expression was barely detected at 2, 5 days after plating PSCs, but appeared following continued in vitro culture and cell passage which result in PSC activation. When PSCs at 5 days after plating (PSCs-5d) were treated with pepstatin A, an aspartic protease inhibitor, or TGF-beta1, a profibrogenic mediator, RECK protein was detected in whole cell lysates. Conversely, Smad7 overexpression or suppression of Smad3 expression in PSCs after passage 2 (PSCs-P2) led to the loss of RECK protein expression. These findings suggest that RECK is post-translationally processed in pre-activated PSCs but protected from proteolytic degradation by TGF-beta signaling. Furthermore, collagenolytic activity of PSCs-5d was greatly reduced by TGF-beta1, whereas that of PSCs-P2 was increased by anti-RECK antibody. Increased RECK levels were also observed in cerulein-induced acute pancreatitis. Therefore, our results suggest for the first time proteolytic processing of RECK as a mechanism regulating RECK activity, and demonstrate that TGF-beta signaling in activated PSCs may promote ECM accumulation via a mechanism that preserves the protease inhibitory activity of RECK.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongsik Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ansan Korea University Hospital, Ansan, Gyeonggi do, Korea
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Abstract
The genetic paradigm of cancer, focused largely on sequential molecular aberrations and associated biological impact in the neoplastic cell compartment of malignant tumors, has dominated our view of cancer pathogenesis. For the most part, this conceptualization has overlooked the dynamic and complex contributions of the surrounding microenvironment comprised of non-tumor cells (stroma) that may resist, react to, and/or foster tumor development. Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a highly lethal disease in which a prominent tumor stroma compartment is a defining characteristic. Indeed, the bulk of PDAC tumor volume consists of non-neoplastic fibroblastic, vascular, and inflammatory cells surrounded by immense quantities of extracellular matrix, far exceeding that found in most other tumor types. Remarkably, little is known about the composition and physiology of the PDAC tumor microenvironment, in particular, the role of stroma in tumor initiation and progression. This review attempts to define key challenges, opportunities and state-of-knowledge relating to the PDAC microenvironment research with an emphasis on how inflammatory processes and key cancer pathways may shape the ontogeny of the tumor stroma. Such knowledge may be used to understand the evolution and biology of this lethal cancer and may convert these insights into new points of therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerald C Chu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
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Borkham-Kamphorst E, van Roeyen CRC, Ostendorf T, Floege J, Gressner AM, Weiskirchen R. Pro-fibrogenic potential of PDGF-D in liver fibrosis. J Hepatol 2007; 46:1064-74. [PMID: 17397961 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2007.01.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 148] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2006] [Revised: 11/28/2006] [Accepted: 01/08/2007] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS We analyzed the expression of platelet-derived growth factor D (PDGF-D) in an experimental bile duct-ligated (BDL) rat model and assessed its biological function in cultured hepatic stellate cells (HSC) and myofibroblasts (MFB). METHODS The mRNA for PDGF-A, -B, -C, -D and for PDGF receptor-alpha and -beta chains (PDGFRalpha and PDGFRbeta) in normal and fibrotic rat livers was assessed quantitatively. Protein levels of PDGF-D were quantified by immunoblotting and immunohistochemistry. RESULTS The relative mRNA expression of all PDGF isoforms and receptors upregulated upon BDL and PDGF-A, -B and -D expression was significantly higher than that of PDGF-C. PDGF-D and PDGFRbeta protein also increased markedly. Immunostaining revealed that PDGF-D is localized along the fibrotic septa of the periportal- and perisinusoidal areas. Besides PDGF-B, PDGF-D is the second most potent PDGF isoform in PDGFRbeta signaling within HSC/MFB, evidenced by PDGFRbeta autophosphorylation and activation of the downstream signaling molecules ERK1/2-, JNK-, p38 MAPK, and PKB/Akt while PDGF-C effects were minimal. PDGF-D exerted mitogenic and fibrogenic effects in both cultured HSC and MFB comparable to PDGF-B but PDGF-A and -C showed only marginal fibrogenic effects. CONCLUSIONS PDGF-D possesses potential pathogenetic properties for HSC activation and matrix remodeling in liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erawan Borkham-Kamphorst
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry, and Division of Nephrology, RWTH-University Hospital Aachen, D-52074 Aachen, Germany
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Gressner AM, Weiskirchen R. Modern pathogenetic concepts of liver fibrosis suggest stellate cells and TGF-beta as major players and therapeutic targets. J Cell Mol Med 2006. [PMID: 16563223 DOI: 10.1634/stemcells.2007-0252"> [doi: 10.1111/j.1582-4934.2006.tb00292.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis is a scarring process that is associated with an increased and altered deposition of extracellular matrix in liver. At the cellular and molecular level, this progressive process is mainly characterized by cellular activation of hepatic stellate cells and aberrant activity of transforming growth factor-beta1 and its downstream cellular mediators. Although the cellular responses to this cytokine are complex, the signalling pathways of this pivotal cytokine during the fibrogenic response and its connection to other signal cascades are now understood in some detail. Based on the current advances in understanding the pleiotropic reactions during fibrogenesis, various inhibitors of transforming growth factor-beta were developed and are now being investigated as potential drug candidates in experimental models of hepatic injury. Although it is too early to favour one of these antagonists for the treatment of hepatic fibrogenesis in human, the experimental results obtained yet provide stimulatory impulses for the development of an effective treatment of choice in the not too distant future. The present review summarises the actual knowledge on the pathogenesis of hepatic fibrogenesis, the role of transforming growth factor-beta and its signalling pathways in promoting the fibrogenic response, and the therapeutic modalities that are presently in the spotlight of many investigations and are already on the way to take the plunge into clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- A M Gressner
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry, RWTH Aachen University--Hospital, D-52074 Aachen, Germany.
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Gressner AM, Weiskirchen R. Modern pathogenetic concepts of liver fibrosis suggest stellate cells and TGF-beta as major players and therapeutic targets. J Cell Mol Med 2006; 10:76-99. [PMID: 16563223 PMCID: PMC3933103 DOI: 10.1111/j.1582-4934.2006.tb00292.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 604] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis is a scarring process that is associated with an increased and altered deposition of extracellular matrix in liver. At the cellular and molecular level, this progressive process is mainly characterized by cellular activation of hepatic stellate cells and aberrant activity of transforming growth factor-beta1 and its downstream cellular mediators. Although the cellular responses to this cytokine are complex, the signalling pathways of this pivotal cytokine during the fibrogenic response and its connection to other signal cascades are now understood in some detail. Based on the current advances in understanding the pleiotropic reactions during fibrogenesis, various inhibitors of transforming growth factor-beta were developed and are now being investigated as potential drug candidates in experimental models of hepatic injury. Although it is too early to favour one of these antagonists for the treatment of hepatic fibrogenesis in human, the experimental results obtained yet provide stimulatory impulses for the development of an effective treatment of choice in the not too distant future. The present review summarises the actual knowledge on the pathogenesis of hepatic fibrogenesis, the role of transforming growth factor-beta and its signalling pathways in promoting the fibrogenic response, and the therapeutic modalities that are presently in the spotlight of many investigations and are already on the way to take the plunge into clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- A M Gressner
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry, RWTH Aachen University - HospitalAachen, Germany
- *Correspondence to: A. M. GRESSNER/R. WEISKIRCHEN Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, D-52074 Aachen, Germany. Tel.: +49-241-8088678/9 Fax: +49-241-8082512 E-mails:
| | - R Weiskirchen
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry, RWTH Aachen University - HospitalAachen, Germany
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Gressner AM, Weiskirchen R. Modern pathogenetic concepts of liver fibrosis suggest stellate cells and TGF-beta as major players and therapeutic targets. J Cell Mol Med 2006. [PMID: 16563223 DOI: 10.1111/j.1528-4934.2006.th00292.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis is a scarring process that is associated with an increased and altered deposition of extracellular matrix in liver. At the cellular and molecular level, this progressive process is mainly characterized by cellular activation of hepatic stellate cells and aberrant activity of transforming growth factor-beta1 and its downstream cellular mediators. Although the cellular responses to this cytokine are complex, the signalling pathways of this pivotal cytokine during the fibrogenic response and its connection to other signal cascades are now understood in some detail. Based on the current advances in understanding the pleiotropic reactions during fibrogenesis, various inhibitors of transforming growth factor-beta were developed and are now being investigated as potential drug candidates in experimental models of hepatic injury. Although it is too early to favour one of these antagonists for the treatment of hepatic fibrogenesis in human, the experimental results obtained yet provide stimulatory impulses for the development of an effective treatment of choice in the not too distant future. The present review summarises the actual knowledge on the pathogenesis of hepatic fibrogenesis, the role of transforming growth factor-beta and its signalling pathways in promoting the fibrogenic response, and the therapeutic modalities that are presently in the spotlight of many investigations and are already on the way to take the plunge into clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- A M Gressner
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry, RWTH Aachen University--Hospital, D-52074 Aachen, Germany.
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