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Łuszczyński K, Soszyńska M, Komorowski M, Lewandowska P, Zdanowski R, Sobiepanek A, Brytan M, Malejczyk J, Lutyńska A, Ścieżyńska A. Markers of Dermal Fibroblast Subpopulations for Viable Cell Isolation via Cell Sorting: A Comprehensive Review. Cells 2024; 13:1206. [PMID: 39056788 PMCID: PMC11274970 DOI: 10.3390/cells13141206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2024] [Revised: 07/04/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Fibroblasts are among the most abundant cell types in the human body, playing crucial roles in numerous physiological processes, including the structural maintenance of the dermis, production of extracellular matrix components, and mediation of inflammatory responses. Despite their importance, fibroblasts remain one of the least characterized cell populations. The advent of single-cell analysis techniques, particularly single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) and fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS), has enabled detailed investigations into fibroblast biology. In this study, we present an extensive analysis of fibroblast surface markers suitable for cell sorting and subsequent functional studies. We reviewed over three thousand research articles describing fibroblast populations and their markers, characterizing and comparing subtypes based on their surface markers, as well as their intra- and extracellular proteins. Our detailed analysis identified a variety of distinct fibroblast subpopulations, each with unique markers, characteristics dependent on their location, and the physiological or pathophysiological environment. These findings underscore the diversity of fibroblasts as a cellular population and could lead to the development of novel diagnostic and therapeutic tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krzysztof Łuszczyński
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology and Innovative Therapies, Military Institute of Medicine National Research Institute, 128 Szaserów Street, 04-141 Warsaw, Poland; (K.Ł.); (R.Z.); (A.L.)
| | - Marta Soszyńska
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-004 Warsaw, Poland; (M.S.); (M.K.); (P.L.); (J.M.)
| | - Michał Komorowski
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-004 Warsaw, Poland; (M.S.); (M.K.); (P.L.); (J.M.)
| | - Paulina Lewandowska
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-004 Warsaw, Poland; (M.S.); (M.K.); (P.L.); (J.M.)
| | - Robert Zdanowski
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology and Innovative Therapies, Military Institute of Medicine National Research Institute, 128 Szaserów Street, 04-141 Warsaw, Poland; (K.Ł.); (R.Z.); (A.L.)
| | - Anna Sobiepanek
- Chair of Drug and Cosmetics Biotechnology, Faculty of Chemistry, Warsaw University of Technology, 00-664 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Marek Brytan
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Military Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology, 01-163 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Jacek Malejczyk
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-004 Warsaw, Poland; (M.S.); (M.K.); (P.L.); (J.M.)
| | - Anna Lutyńska
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology and Innovative Therapies, Military Institute of Medicine National Research Institute, 128 Szaserów Street, 04-141 Warsaw, Poland; (K.Ł.); (R.Z.); (A.L.)
| | - Aneta Ścieżyńska
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology and Innovative Therapies, Military Institute of Medicine National Research Institute, 128 Szaserów Street, 04-141 Warsaw, Poland; (K.Ł.); (R.Z.); (A.L.)
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-004 Warsaw, Poland; (M.S.); (M.K.); (P.L.); (J.M.)
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Wolf CL, Pruett C, Lighter D, Jorcyk CL. The clinical relevance of OSM in inflammatory diseases: a comprehensive review. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1239732. [PMID: 37841259 PMCID: PMC10570509 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1239732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Oncostatin M (OSM) is a pleiotropic cytokine involved in a variety of inflammatory responses such as wound healing, liver regeneration, and bone remodeling. As a member of the interleukin-6 (IL-6) family of cytokines, OSM binds the shared receptor gp130, recruits either OSMRβ or LIFRβ, and activates a variety of signaling pathways including the JAK/STAT, MAPK, JNK, and PI3K/AKT pathways. Since its discovery in 1986, OSM has been identified as a significant contributor to a multitude of inflammatory diseases, including arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, lung and skin disease, cardiovascular disease, and most recently, COVID-19. Additionally, OSM has also been extensively studied in the context of several cancer types including breast, cervical, ovarian, testicular, colon and gastrointestinal, brain,lung, skin, as well as other cancers. While OSM has been recognized as a significant contributor for each of these diseases, and studies have shown OSM inhibition is effective at treating or reducing symptoms, very few therapeutics have succeeded into clinical trials, and none have yet been approved by the FDA for treatment. In this review, we outline the role OSM plays in a variety of inflammatory diseases, including cancer, and outline the previous and current strategies for developing an inhibitor for OSM signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cody L. Wolf
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, Boise State University, Boise, ID, United States
| | - Clyde Pruett
- Department of Biological Sciences, Boise State University, Boise, ID, United States
| | - Darren Lighter
- Department of Biological Sciences, Boise State University, Boise, ID, United States
| | - Cheryl L. Jorcyk
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, Boise State University, Boise, ID, United States
- Department of Biological Sciences, Boise State University, Boise, ID, United States
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3
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Tuhy T, Hassoun PM. Clinical features of pulmonary arterial hypertension associated with systemic sclerosis. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1264906. [PMID: 37828949 PMCID: PMC10565655 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1264906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis is an autoimmune disorder of the connective tissue characterized by disordered inflammation and fibrosis leading to skin thickening and visceral organ complications. Pulmonary involvement, in the form of pulmonary arterial hypertension and/or interstitial lung disease, is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality among individuals with scleroderma. There are no disease-specific therapies for pulmonary involvement of scleroderma, and pulmonary arterial hypertension in this cohort has typically been associated with worse outcomes and less clinical response to modern therapy compared to other forms of Group I pulmonary hypertension in the classification from the World Symposium on Pulmonary Hypertension. Ongoing research aims to delineate how pathologic microvascular remodeling and fibrosis contribute to this poor response and offer a window into future therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Paul M. Hassoun
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
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Bogatkevich GS, Atanelishvili I, Bogatkevich AM, Silver RM. Critical Role of LMCD1 in Promoting Profibrotic Characteristics of Lung Myofibroblasts in Experimental and Scleroderma-Associated Lung Fibrosis. Arthritis Rheumatol 2023; 75:438-448. [PMID: 36103378 PMCID: PMC9998340 DOI: 10.1002/art.42344] [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: 08/24/2021] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is a serious complication and leading cause of mortality in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). In this study, we explored the role of LIM and cysteine-rich domains protein 1 (LMCD1) as a novel factor in the pathogenesis of SSc-related ILD (SSc-ILD). METHODS The expression and effects of LMCD1 were studied in lung tissue samples and fibroblasts from SSc-ILD patients and control subjects as well as in lung tissue samples from animal models. RESULTS LMCD1 was consistently elevated in lung tissue samples and in fibroblasts isolated from SSc-ILD patients as compared to controls. Additionally, LMCD1 was found to be highly expressed in the lung in the fibroblast-specific protein (FSP)-driven, constitutively active transforming growth factor β receptor type I (TGFβR1) transgenic mouse model of ILD and the bleomycin-induced mouse model of ILD. In lung fibroblasts from SSc-ILD patients, LMCD1 is an essential factor for the TGFβ-induced generation of type I collagen, fibronectin, and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA). Depletion of LMCD1 by small interfering RNA reduced the expression of extracellular matrix proteins and lowered transcriptional activity and expression of α-SMA, as well as decreased the proliferation and contractile activity of SSc-ILD lung fibroblasts. In dense fibrotic areas of affected lung tissue, lung LMCD1 colocalized with α-SMA. In cultured scleroderma lung fibroblasts, LMCD1 colocalized and interacted with serum response factor which mediates LMCD1-induced contractile activity of lung fibroblasts. CONCLUSION Our study identifies LMCD1 as a profibrotic molecule contributing to the activation of myofibroblasts and the persistent fibroproliferation observed in SSc-ILD. Thus, LMCD1 may be a potential novel therapeutic target for patients with SSc-ILD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Galina S Bogatkevich
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston
| | - Ilia Atanelishvili
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston
| | - Andrew M Bogatkevich
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, and College of Charleston (BSc Student), Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Richard M Silver
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston
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Ciurea A, Rednic NV, Soancă A, Micu IC, Stanomir A, Oneț D, Șurlin P, Filipescu I, Roman A, Stratul ȘI, Pamfil C. Current Perspectives on Periodontitis in Systemic Sclerosis: Associative Relationships, Pathogenic Links, and Best Practices. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:diagnostics13050841. [PMID: 36899985 PMCID: PMC10000920 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13050841] [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: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis is a chronic, autoimmune, multisystemic disease characterized by aberrant extracellular matrix protein deposition and extreme progressive microvasculopathy. These processes lead to damage within the skin, lungs, or gastrointestinal tract, but also to facial changes with physiognomic and functional alterations, and dental and periodontal lesions. Orofacial manifestations are common in SSc but are frequently overshadowed by systemic complications. In clinical practice, oral manifestations of SSc are suboptimally addressed, while their management is not included in the general treatment recommendations. Periodontitis is associated with autoimmune-mediated systemic diseases, including systemic sclerosis. In periodontitis, the microbial subgingival biofilm induces host-mediated inflammation with subsequent tissue damage, periodontal attachment, and bone loss. When these diseases coexist, patients experience additive damage, increasing malnutrition, and morbidity. The present review discusses the links between SSc and periodontitis, and provides a clinical guide for preventive and therapeutical approaches in the management of these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreea Ciurea
- Department of Periodontology, Faculty of Dental Medicine, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy Cluj-Napoca, Victor Babeș St., No. 15, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Nicolae Voicu Rednic
- Department of Gastroenterology, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy Cluj-Napoca, “Prof. Dr. Octavian Fodor” Regional Institute of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Croitorilor St., No. 19, 400394 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Andrada Soancă
- Department of Periodontology, Faculty of Dental Medicine, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy Cluj-Napoca, Victor Babeș St., No. 15, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Iulia Cristina Micu
- Department of Periodontology, Faculty of Dental Medicine, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy Cluj-Napoca, Victor Babeș St., No. 15, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Alina Stanomir
- Department of Periodontology, Faculty of Dental Medicine, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy Cluj-Napoca, Victor Babeș St., No. 15, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Diana Oneț
- Department of Periodontology, Faculty of Dental Medicine, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy Cluj-Napoca, Victor Babeș St., No. 15, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Petra Șurlin
- Department of Periodontology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy Craiova, Petru Rareș St., No. 2, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Ileana Filipescu
- Department of Rheumatology, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy Cluj-Napoca, Clinicilor St., No. 2, 400000 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Alexandra Roman
- Department of Periodontology, Faculty of Dental Medicine, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy Cluj-Napoca, Victor Babeș St., No. 15, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +40-722-627-488
| | - Ștefan Ioan Stratul
- Department of Periodontology, Faculty of Dental Medicine, Anton Sculean Research Center for Periodontal and Peri-Implant Diseases, Victor Babeș University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timișoara, Revoluției from 1989 St., No. 9, 300041 Timișoara, Romania
| | - Cristina Pamfil
- Department of Rheumatology, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy Cluj-Napoca, Clinicilor St., No. 2, 400000 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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Jin J, Liu Y, Tang Q, Yan X, Jiang M, Zhao X, Chen J, Jin C, Ou Q, Zhao J. Bioinformatics-integrated screening of systemic sclerosis-specific expressed markers to identify therapeutic targets. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1125183. [PMID: 37063926 PMCID: PMC10098096 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1125183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare autoimmune disease characterized by extensive skin fibrosis. There are no effective treatments due to the severity, multiorgan presentation, and variable outcomes of the disease. Here, integrated bioinformatics was employed to discover tissue-specific expressed hub genes associated with SSc, determine potential competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNA) regulatory networks, and identify potential targeted drugs. Methods In this study, four datasets of SSc were acquired. To identify the genes specific to tissues or organs, the BioGPS web database was used. For differentially expressed genes (DEGs), functional and enrichment analyses were carried out, and hub genes were screened and shown in a network of protein-protein interactions (PPI). The potential lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA ceRNA network was constructed using the online databases. The specifically expressed hub genes and ceRNA network were validated in the SSc mouse and in normal mice. We also used the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve to determine the diagnostic values of effective biomarkers in SSc. Finally, the Drug-Gene Interaction Database (DGIdb) identified specific medicines linked to hub genes. Results The pooled datasets identified a total of 254 DEGs. The tissue/organ-specifically expressed genes involved in this analysis are commonly found in the hematologic/immune system and bone/muscle tissue. The enrichment analysis of DEGs revealed the significant terms such as regulation of actin cytoskeleton, immune-related processes, the VEGF signaling pathway, and metabolism. Cytoscape identified six gene cluster modules and 23 hub genes. And 4 hub genes were identified, including Serpine1, CCL2, IL6, and ISG15. Consistently, the expression of Serpine1, CCL2, IL6, and ISG15 was significantly higher in the SSc mouse model than in normal mice. Eventually, we found that MALAT1-miR-206-CCL2, let-7a-5p-IL6, and miR-196a-5p-SERPINE1 may be promising RNA regulatory pathways in SSc. Besides, ten potential therapeutic drugs associated with the hub gene were identified. Conclusions This study revealed tissue-specific expressed genes, SERPINE1, CCL2, IL6, and ISG15, as effective biomarkers and provided new insight into the mechanisms of SSc. Potential RNA regulatory pathways, including MALAT1-miR-206-CCL2, let-7a-5p-IL6, and miR-196a-5p-SERPINE1, contribute to our knowledge of SSc. Furthermore, the analysis of drug-hub gene interactions predicted TIPLASININ, CARLUMAB and BINDARIT as candidate drugs for SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiahui Jin
- Department of Dermatology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yifan Liu
- Department of Dermatology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qinyu Tang
- Department of Dermatology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xin Yan
- Department of Dermatology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Miao Jiang
- Department of Dermatology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xu Zhao
- Department of Dermatology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jie Chen
- Department of Dermatology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Caixia Jin
- Department of Dermatology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Caixia Jin, ; Qingjian Ou, ; Jingjun Zhao,
| | - Qingjian Ou
- Department of Dermatology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Caixia Jin, ; Qingjian Ou, ; Jingjun Zhao,
| | - Jingjun Zhao
- Department of Dermatology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Dermatology, Xinhua Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Caixia Jin, ; Qingjian Ou, ; Jingjun Zhao,
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RuizdelRio J, Muñoz P, Carreira P, Maestro D, Pablos JL, Palanca A, Merino J, Serrano-Mollar A, Merino R, Tamayo E, Lopez-Hoyos M, Diaz-Gonzalez F, Martinez-Taboada V, Villar AV. Profibrotic Role of Inducible Heat Shock Protein 90α Isoform in Systemic Sclerosis. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2022; 209:38-48. [PMID: 35715007 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2100430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disease that affects skin and multiple internal organs. TGF-β, a central trigger of cutaneous fibrosis, activates fibroblasts with the involvement of the stress-inducible chaperone heat shock protein 90 isoform α (Hsp90α). Available evidence supports overexpression and secretion of Hsp90α as a feature in profibrotic pathological conditions. The aim of this work is to investigate the expression and function of Hsp90α in experimental models of skin fibrosis such as human fibroblasts, C57BL/6 mice, and in human SSc. For this purpose, we generated a new experimental model based on doxorubicin administration with improved characteristics with respect to the bleomycin model. We visualized disease progression in vivo by fluorescence imaging. In this work, we obtained Hsp90α mRNA overexpression in human skin fibroblasts, in bleomycin- and doxorubicin-induced mouse fibrotic skin, and in lungs of bleomycin- and doxorubicin-treated mice. Hsp90α-deficient mice showed significantly decreased skin thickness compared with wild-type mice in both animal models. In SSc patients, serum Hsp90α levels were increased in patients with lung involvement and in patients with the diffuse form of SSc (dSSc) compared with patients with the limited form of SSc. The serum Hsp90α levels of patients dSSc were correlated with the Rodnan score and the forced vital capacity variable. These results provide new supportive evidence of the contribution of the Hsp90α isoform in the development of skin fibrosis. In SSc, these results indicated that higher serum levels were associated with dSSc and lung fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge RuizdelRio
- Instituto de Biomedicina y Biotecnología de Cantabria, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas-Universidad de Cantabria, Santander, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Marqués de Valdecilla (IDIVAL), Santander, Spain
| | - Pedro Muñoz
- Gerencia Atención Primaria, Servicio Cántabro de Salud, Santander, Spain
| | - Patricia Carreira
- Servicio de Reumatología, Instituto de Investigación Hospital 12 de Octubre (i+12), Madrid, Spain
| | - David Maestro
- Instituto de Biomedicina y Biotecnología de Cantabria, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas-Universidad de Cantabria, Santander, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Marqués de Valdecilla (IDIVAL), Santander, Spain
| | - Jose L Pablos
- Servicio de Reumatología, Instituto de Investigación Hospital 12 de Octubre (i+12), Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Palanca
- Instituto de Investigación Marqués de Valdecilla (IDIVAL), Santander, Spain.,Departamento de Anatomía y Biología Celular, Universidad de Cantabria, Santander, Spain
| | - Jesus Merino
- Instituto de Investigación Marqués de Valdecilla (IDIVAL), Santander, Spain.,Departamento de Biología Molecular, Universidad de Cantabria, Santander, Spain
| | - Anna Serrano-Mollar
- Departamento de Patología Experimental, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas de Barcelona (IIBB-CSIC-IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain.,Centro de Investigaciones Biomédicas en Red de Enfermedades Respiratorias, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ramon Merino
- Instituto de Biomedicina y Biotecnología de Cantabria, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas-Universidad de Cantabria, Santander, Spain.,Departamento de Biología Molecular, Universidad de Cantabria, Santander, Spain.,SODERCAN, Santander, Spain
| | - Esther Tamayo
- Departamento de Biología Molecular, Universidad de Cantabria, Santander, Spain
| | - Marcos Lopez-Hoyos
- Servicio de Inmunología, Hospital Universitario Marqués de Valdecilla, Santander, Spain
| | - Federico Diaz-Gonzalez
- Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de La Laguna, Servicio de Reumatología, Hospital Universitario de Canarias, La Laguna, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
| | - Victor Martinez-Taboada
- Servicio de Reumatología, Hospital Universitario Marqués de Valdecilla, IDIVAL, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Cantabria, Santander, Spain; and
| | - Ana V Villar
- Instituto de Biomedicina y Biotecnología de Cantabria, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas-Universidad de Cantabria, Santander, Spain; .,Instituto de Investigación Marqués de Valdecilla (IDIVAL), Santander, Spain.,Departamento de Fisiología y Farmacología, Universidad de Cantabria, Santander, Spain
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8
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Rokni M, Sadeghi Shaker M, Kavosi H, Shokoofi S, Mahmoudi M, Farhadi E. The role of endothelin and RAS/ERK signaling in immunopathogenesis-related fibrosis in patients with systemic sclerosis: an updated review with therapeutic implications. Arthritis Res Ther 2022; 24:108. [PMID: 35562771 PMCID: PMC9102675 DOI: 10.1186/s13075-022-02787-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a disease of connective tissue with high rate of morbidity and mortality highlighted by extreme fibrosis affecting various organs such as the dermis, lungs, and heart. Until now, there is no specific cure for the fibrosis occurred in SSc disease. The SSc pathogenesis is yet unknown, but transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β), endothelin-1 (ET-1), and Ras-ERK1/2 cascade are the main factors contributing to the tissue fibrosis through extracellular matrix (ECM) accumulation. Several studies have hallmarked the association of ET-1 with or without TGF-β and Ras-ERK1/2 signaling in the development of SSc disease, vasculopathy, and fibrosis of the dermis, lungs, and several organs. Accordingly, different clinical and experimental studies have indicated the potential therapeutic role of ET-1 and Ras antagonists in these situations in SSc. In addition, ET-1 and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) as a cofactor of the TGF-β cascade play a substantial initiative role in inducing fibrosis. Once initiated, TGF-β alone or in combination with ET-1 and CTGF can activate several kinase proteins such as the Ras-ERK1/2 pathway that serve as the fundamental factor for developing fibrosis. Furthermore, Salirasib is a synthetic small molecule that is able to inhibit all Ras forms. Therefore, it can be used as a potent therapeutic factor for fibrotic disorders. So, this review discusses the role of TGF-β/ET-1/Ras signaling and their involvement in SSc pathogenesis, particularly in its fibrotic situation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohsen Rokni
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Immunology, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mina Sadeghi Shaker
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hoda Kavosi
- Rheumatology Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Inflammation Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shahrzad Shokoofi
- Rheumatology Department, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Mahdi Mahmoudi
- Rheumatology Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. .,Inflammation Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Elham Farhadi
- Rheumatology Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. .,Inflammation Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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9
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Yamamoto A, Saito T, Hosoya T, Kawahata K, Asano Y, Sato S, Mizoguchi F, Yasuda S, Kohsaka H. Therapeutic effect of cyclin-dependent kinase 4/6 inhibitor on dermal fibrosis in murine models of systemic sclerosis. Arthritis Rheumatol 2021; 74:860-870. [PMID: 34882985 DOI: 10.1002/art.42042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Histology of systemic sclerosis (SSc) includes an increased number of myofibroblasts, where transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) plays a crucial role to promote dermal fibrosis. The objectives of this study were to examine whether the inhibition of cell cycle with cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) 4/6 inhibitor suppress fibroblast proliferation and the differentiation into myofibroblasts, and the therapeutic effect of a CDK4/6 inhibitor on dermal fibrosis in murine models of SSc in monotherapy or in combination with TGF-β receptor inhibitor (TGFβRI). METHODS SSc fibroblasts were cultured in the presence or absence of TGF-β. Effects of palbociclib (CDKI), a CDK4/6 inhibitor, on fibroblast proliferation and TGF-β-induced differentiation into myofibroblasts were examined with BrdU uptake, immunofluorescence, and immunoblotting. Hypochlorous acid (HOCl)- and bleomycin-induced dermal fibrosis models were used to study the effect of CDKI on dermal fibrosis in monotherapy or in combination with galunisertib, a TGFβRI. RESULTS CDKI suppressed the proliferation of SSc fibroblasts and their TGF-β-induced differentiation into myofibroblast without inhibiting canonical and non-canonical TGF-β signals. Treatment of dermal fibrosis models with CDKI decreased dermal thickness and collagen content, as well as fibroblast proliferation and myofibroblast number. The combination therapy with CDKI and TGFβRI exerted additive anti-fibrotic effects. Mechanistically, CDKI suppressed the expression of cellular communication network (CCN) 2 and cadherin-11 important for fibrosis. CONCLUSION We demonstrated the therapeutic effect of CDKI on dermal fibrosis in monotherapy or in combination with TGFβRI. CDKI should be a novel agent for the treatment of SSc, which may be used with TGFβRI to increase the efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akio Yamamoto
- Department of Rheumatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tetsuya Saito
- Department of Rheumatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tadashi Hosoya
- Department of Rheumatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kimito Kawahata
- Department of Rheumatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshihide Asano
- Department of Dermatology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shinichi Sato
- Department of Dermatology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Fumitaka Mizoguchi
- Department of Rheumatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shinsuke Yasuda
- Department of Rheumatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Kohsaka
- Department of Rheumatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), Tokyo, Japan
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Global gene expression analysis of systemic sclerosis myofibroblasts demonstrates a marked increase in the expression of multiple NBPF genes. Sci Rep 2021; 11:20435. [PMID: 34650102 PMCID: PMC8516909 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-99292-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Myofibroblasts are the key effector cells responsible for the exaggerated tissue fibrosis in Systemic Sclerosis (SSc). Despite their importance to SSc pathogenesis, the specific transcriptome of SSc myofibroblasts has not been described. The purpose of this study was to identify transcriptome differences between SSc myofibroblasts and non-myofibroblastic cells. Alpha smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) expressing myofibroblasts and α-SMA negative cells were isolated employing laser capture microdissection from dermal cell cultures from four patients with diffuse SSc of recent onset. Total mRNA was extracted from both cell populations, amplified and analyzed employing microarrays. Results for specific genes were validated by Western blots and by immunohistochemistry. Transcriptome analysis revealed 97 differentially expressed transcripts in SSc myofibroblasts compared with non-myofibroblasts. Annotation clustering of the SSc myofibroblast-specific transcripts failed to show a TGF-β signature. The most represented transcripts corresponded to several different genes from the Neuroblastoma Breakpoint Family (NBPF) of genes. NBPF genes are highly expanded in humans but are not present in murine or rat genomes. In vitro studies employing cultured SSc dermal fibroblasts and immunohistochemistry of affected SSc skin confirmed increased NBPF expression in SSc. These results indicate that SSc myofibroblasts represent a unique cell lineage expressing a specific transcriptome that includes very high levels of transcripts corresponding to numerous NBPF genes. Elevated expression of NBPF genes in SSc myofibroblasts suggests that NBPF gene products may play a role in SSc pathogenesis and may represent a novel therapeutic target.
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11
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Romano E, Rosa I, Fioretto BS, Matucci-Cerinic M, Manetti M. New Insights into Profibrotic Myofibroblast Formation in Systemic Sclerosis: When the Vascular Wall Becomes the Enemy. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:610. [PMID: 34202703 PMCID: PMC8307837 DOI: 10.3390/life11070610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Revised: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
In systemic sclerosis (SSc), abnormalities in microvessel morphology occur early and evolve into a distinctive vasculopathy that relentlessly advances in parallel with the development of tissue fibrosis orchestrated by myofibroblasts in nearly all affected organs. Our knowledge of the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying such a unique relationship between SSc-related vasculopathy and fibrosis has profoundly changed over the last few years. Indeed, increasing evidence has suggested that endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndoMT), a process in which profibrotic myofibroblasts originate from endothelial cells, may take center stage in SSc pathogenesis. While in arterioles and small arteries EndoMT may lead to the accumulation of myofibroblasts within the vessel wall and development of fibroproliferative vascular lesions, in capillary vessels it may instead result in vascular destruction and formation of myofibroblasts that migrate into the perivascular space with consequent tissue fibrosis and microvessel rarefaction, which are hallmarks of SSc. Besides endothelial cells, other vascular wall-resident cells, such as pericytes and vascular smooth muscle cells, may acquire a myofibroblast-like synthetic phenotype contributing to both SSc-related vascular dysfunction and fibrosis. A deeper understanding of the mechanisms underlying the differentiation of myofibroblasts inside the vessel wall provides the rationale for novel targeted therapeutic strategies for the treatment of SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eloisa Romano
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy; (E.R.); (B.S.F.); (M.M.-C.)
| | - Irene Rosa
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Anatomy and Histology, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy;
| | - Bianca Saveria Fioretto
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy; (E.R.); (B.S.F.); (M.M.-C.)
| | - Marco Matucci-Cerinic
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy; (E.R.); (B.S.F.); (M.M.-C.)
| | - Mirko Manetti
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Anatomy and Histology, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy;
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12
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Mendoza FA, Piera-Velazquez S, Jimenez SA. Tyrosine kinases in the pathogenesis of tissue fibrosis in systemic sclerosis and potential therapeutic role of their inhibition. Transl Res 2021; 231:139-158. [PMID: 33422651 DOI: 10.1016/j.trsl.2021.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Revised: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an idiopathic autoimmune disease with a heterogeneous clinical phenotype ranging from limited cutaneous involvement to rapidly progressive diffuse SSc. The most severe SSc clinical and pathologic manifestations result from an uncontrolled fibrotic process involving the skin and various internal organs. The molecular mechanisms responsible for the initiation and progression of the SSc fibrotic process have not been fully elucidated. Recently it has been suggested that tyrosine protein kinases play a role. The implicated kinases include receptor-activated tyrosine kinases and nonreceptor tyrosine kinases. The receptor kinases are activated following specific binding of growth factors (platelet-derived growth factor, fibroblast growth factor, or vascular endothelial growth factor). Other receptor kinases are the discoidin domain receptors activated by binding of various collagens, the ephrin receptors that are activated by ephrins and the angiopoetin-Tie-2s receptors. The nonreceptor tyrosine kinases c-Abl, Src, Janus, and STATs have also been shown to participate in SSc-associated tissue fibrosis. Currently, there are no effective disease-modifying therapies for SSc-associated tissue fibrosis. Therefore, extensive investigation has been conducted to examine whether tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) may exert antifibrotic effects. Here, we review the role of receptor and nonreceptor tyrosine kinases in the pathogenesis of the frequently progressive cutaneous and systemic fibrotic alterations in SSc, and the potential of TKIs as SSc disease-modifying antifibrotic therapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabian A Mendoza
- Rheumatology Division, Department of Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Jefferson Institute of Molecular Medicine and Scleroderma Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Sonsoles Piera-Velazquez
- Jefferson Institute of Molecular Medicine and Scleroderma Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Sergio A Jimenez
- Jefferson Institute of Molecular Medicine and Scleroderma Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
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13
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Wang J, You J, Gong D, Xu Y, Yang B, Jiang C. PDGF-BB induces conversion, proliferation, migration, and collagen synthesis of oral mucosal fibroblasts through PDGFR-β/PI3K/ AKT signaling pathway. Cancer Biomark 2021; 30:407-415. [PMID: 33492283 DOI: 10.3233/cbm-201681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore the pathogenesis of oral submucosal fibrosis (OSF) by analyzing the impact of Platelet Derived Growth Factor (PDGF)-BB on oral mucosal fibroblasts (FB) and PDGFR-β/Phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/serine/threonine protein kinase (AKT) signaling pathway. METHODS The isolated and purified oral mucosal fibroblasts were divided into four groups: the control group (CON, 10% FBS DMEM), the PDGF-BB group (40 ng/ml PDGF-BB), the PDGF-BB+IMA group (40 ng/ml PDGF-BB and 60 μmol/L IMA), and the PDGF-BB+LY294002 group (40 ng/ml PDGF-BB and 48 μmol/L LY294002). Primary human FB cells were isolated and cultured for detecting the effects of PDGF-BB on α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) by indirect immunofluorescence. 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2-H-tetrazolium bromide, Thiazolyl Blue Tetrazolium Bromide (MTT) method and scratch test were used to detect the proliferation and migration of FB. Western blots were used to detect the synthesis of type I collagen (Col I) and the expression of PDGFR-β/PI3K/AKT signaling pathway-related proteins. The effects of PDGFR-β inhibitor and PI3K inhibitor were observed. RESULTS Compared with group CON, group IMA, and group LY294002, α-SMA was upregulated in group PDGF-BB (p< 0.05), with higher OD490 nm value (p< 0.05), narrower average scratch width, and higher relative cell migration rate (p< 0.05). The expression levels of Col I, p-PDGFR-β, p-PI3K, and p-AKT were higher in group PDGF-BB (p< 0.05). CONCLUSIONS PDGF-BB induces FB to transform into myofibroblasts (MFB) through the PDGFR-β/PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, and promotes the proliferation, migration, and collagen synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Wang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,Department of Immunology, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Jialing You
- Department of Immunology, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Ding Gong
- Department of Immunology, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Ying Xu
- Department of Immunology, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Bo Yang
- Department of Immunology, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Canhua Jiang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
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14
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Romano E, Rosa I, Fioretto BS, Cerinic MM, Manetti M. The Role of Pro-fibrotic Myofibroblasts in Systemic Sclerosis: from Origin to Therapeutic Targeting. Curr Mol Med 2021; 22:209-239. [PMID: 33823766 DOI: 10.2174/0929867328666210325102749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Revised: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc, scleroderma) is a complex connective tissue disorder characterized by multisystem clinical manifestations resulting from immune dysregulation/autoimmunity, vasculopathy and, most notably, progressive fibrosis of the skin and internal organs. In recent years, it has emerged that the main drivers of SSc-related tissue fibrosis are myofibroblasts, a type of mesenchymal cells with both the extracellular matrix-synthesizing features of fibroblasts and the cytoskeletal characteristics of contractile smooth muscle cells. The accumulation and persistent activation of pro-fibrotic myofibroblasts during SSc development and progression result into elevated mechanical stress and reduced matrix plasticity within the affected tissues and may be ascribed to a reduced susceptibility of these cells to pro-apoptotic stimuli, as well as their increased formation from tissue-resident fibroblasts or transition from different cell types. Given the crucial role of myofibroblasts in SSc pathogenesis, finding the way to inhibit myofibroblast differentiation and accumulation by targeting their formation, function and survival may represent an effective approach to hamper the fibrotic process or even halt or reverse established fibrosis. In this review, we discuss the role of myofibroblasts in SSc-related fibrosis, with a special focus on their cellular origin and the signaling pathways implicated in their formation and persistent activation. Furthermore, we provide an overview of potential therapeutic strategies targeting myofibroblasts that may be able to counteract fibrosis in this pathological condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eloisa Romano
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Florence, Florence. Italy
| | - Irene Rosa
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Florence, Florence. Italy
| | - Bianca Saveria Fioretto
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Florence, Florence. Italy
| | - Marco Matucci Cerinic
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Florence, Florence. Italy
| | - Mirko Manetti
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Anatomy and Histology, University of Florence, Florence. Italy
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15
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Human Cytomegalovirus and Autoimmune Diseases: Where Are We? Viruses 2021; 13:v13020260. [PMID: 33567734 PMCID: PMC7914970 DOI: 10.3390/v13020260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2020] [Revised: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is a ubiquitous double-stranded DNA virus belonging to the β-subgroup of the herpesvirus family. After the initial infection, the virus establishes latency in poorly differentiated myeloid precursors from where it can reactivate at later times to cause recurrences. In immunocompetent subjects, primary HCMV infection is usually asymptomatic, while in immunocompromised patients, HCMV infection can lead to severe, life-threatening diseases, whose clinical severity parallels the degree of immunosuppression. The existence of a strict interplay between HCMV and the immune system has led many to hypothesize that HCMV could also be involved in autoimmune diseases (ADs). Indeed, signs of active viral infection were later found in a variety of different ADs, such as rheumatological, neurological, enteric disorders, and metabolic diseases. In addition, HCMV infection has been frequently linked to increased production of autoantibodies, which play a driving role in AD progression, as observed in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients. Documented mechanisms of HCMV-associated autoimmunity include molecular mimicry, inflammation, and nonspecific B-cell activation. In this review, we summarize the available literature on the various ADs arising from or exacerbating upon HCMV infection, focusing on the potential role of HCMV-mediated immune activation at disease onset.
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16
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Iani L, Quinto RM, Porcelli P, Angeramo AR, Schiralli A, Abeni D. Positive Psychological Factors Are Associated With Better Spiritual Well-Being and Lower Distress in Individuals With Skin Diseases. Front Psychol 2020; 11:552764. [PMID: 33123038 PMCID: PMC7573544 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.552764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2020] [Accepted: 09/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
In this study we examined whether aspects of positive functioning [reappraisal, sense of coherence (SOC), and positivity] were associated with spiritual well-being and psychological distress after controlling for negative functioning (skin-related symptoms, type of disease, and expressive suppression) in individuals with skin diseases. We also examined whether negative functioning aspects were linked to spiritual well-being and distress when controlling for aspects of positive functioning. The study used a cross-sectional design with a sample of 192 individuals with psoriasis and systemic sclerosis (SSc) (M age = 51.6 years, SD = 16.5). Two hierarchical multiple regressions were conducted to determine whether spiritual well-being and psychological distress were accounted for by skin-related symptoms, type of disease, emotion regulation strategies, SOC, and positivity. Positivity was the most important contributor to better spiritual well-being, followed by both the comprehensibility/manageability and meaningfulness SOC subscales, after controlling for the other variables. High skin-related symptoms and expressive suppression were associated with lower psychological distress, whereas high SOC and reappraisal correlated with higher psychological distress. The findings of this study pave the way for further research on how SOC and positivity may reduce the effects of both skin-related symptoms and emotion dysregulation and facilitate spiritual well-being of individuals with skin diseases. Interventions aimed to enhance inner resources of these individuals and help them to find a meaning in their experience of skin disease might reduce psychological distress and improve spiritual well-being. Our findings suggest that healthcare professionals should consider positive functioning aspects in future interventions for individuals with skin diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Iani
- Department of Human Sciences, European University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Piero Porcelli
- Department of Psychological, Health and Territorial Sciences, University of “G. d’Annunzio” Chieti–Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | | | - Andrea Schiralli
- Department of Human Sciences, European University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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17
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Tsai CY, Hsieh SC, Wu TH, Li KJ, Shen CY, Liao HT, Wu CH, Kuo YM, Lu CS, Yu CL. Pathogenic Roles of Autoantibodies and Aberrant Epigenetic Regulation of Immune and Connective Tissue Cells in the Tissue Fibrosis of Patients with Systemic Sclerosis. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21093069. [PMID: 32349208 PMCID: PMC7246753 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21093069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Revised: 04/19/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a multi-system autoimmune disease with tissue fibrosis prominent in the skin and lung. In this review, we briefly describe the autoimmune features (mainly autoantibody production and cytokine profiles) and the potential pathogenic contributors including genetic/epigenetic predisposition, and environmental factors. We look in detail at the cellular and molecular bases underlying tissue-fibrosis which include trans-differentiation of fibroblasts (FBs) to myofibroblasts (MFBs). We also state comprehensively the pro-inflammatory and pro-fibrotic cytokines relevant to MFB trans-differentiation, vasculopathy-associated autoantibodies, and fibrosis-regulating microRNAs in SSc. It is conceivable that tissue fibrosis is mainly mediated by an excessive production of TGF-β, the master regulator, from the skewed Th2 cells, macrophages, fibroblasts, myofibroblasts, and keratinocytes. After binding with TGF-β receptors on MFB, the downstream Wnt/β-catenin triggers canonical Smad 2/3 and non-canonical Smad 4 signaling pathways to transcribe collagen genes. Subsequently, excessive collagen fiber synthesis and accumulation as well as tissue fibrosis ensue. In the later part of this review, we discuss limited data relevant to the role of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in tissue-fibrosis in SSc. It is expected that these lncRNAs may become the useful biomarkers and therapeutic targets for SSc in the future. The prospective investigations in the development of novel epigenetic modifiers are also suggested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang-Youh Tsai
- Division of Allergy, Immunology & Rheumatology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital & National Yang-Ming University, #201 Sec. 2, Shih-Pai Road, Taipei 11217, Taiwan;
- Correspondence: (C.-Y.T.); (C.-L.Y.); Fax: +886-2-28717483 (C.-Y.T.); +886-2-23957801 (C.-L.Y.)
| | - Song-Chou Hsieh
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital and National Taiwan University College of Medicine, #7 Chung-Shan South Road, Taipei 10002, Taiwan; (S.-C.H.); (K.-J.L.); (C.-Y.S.); (C.-H.W.); (Y.-M.K.); (C.-S.L.)
| | - Tsai-Hung Wu
- Division of Nephrology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital & National Yang-Ming University, #201 Sec. 2, Shih-Pai Road, Taipei 11217, Taiwan;
| | - Ko-Jen Li
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital and National Taiwan University College of Medicine, #7 Chung-Shan South Road, Taipei 10002, Taiwan; (S.-C.H.); (K.-J.L.); (C.-Y.S.); (C.-H.W.); (Y.-M.K.); (C.-S.L.)
| | - Chieh-Yu Shen
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital and National Taiwan University College of Medicine, #7 Chung-Shan South Road, Taipei 10002, Taiwan; (S.-C.H.); (K.-J.L.); (C.-Y.S.); (C.-H.W.); (Y.-M.K.); (C.-S.L.)
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, #7 Chung-Shan South Road, Taipei 10002, Taiwan
| | - Hsien-Tzung Liao
- Division of Allergy, Immunology & Rheumatology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital & National Yang-Ming University, #201 Sec. 2, Shih-Pai Road, Taipei 11217, Taiwan;
| | - Cheng-Han Wu
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital and National Taiwan University College of Medicine, #7 Chung-Shan South Road, Taipei 10002, Taiwan; (S.-C.H.); (K.-J.L.); (C.-Y.S.); (C.-H.W.); (Y.-M.K.); (C.-S.L.)
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, #7 Chung-Shan South Road, Taipei 10002, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Min Kuo
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital and National Taiwan University College of Medicine, #7 Chung-Shan South Road, Taipei 10002, Taiwan; (S.-C.H.); (K.-J.L.); (C.-Y.S.); (C.-H.W.); (Y.-M.K.); (C.-S.L.)
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, #7 Chung-Shan South Road, Taipei 10002, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Shiun Lu
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital and National Taiwan University College of Medicine, #7 Chung-Shan South Road, Taipei 10002, Taiwan; (S.-C.H.); (K.-J.L.); (C.-Y.S.); (C.-H.W.); (Y.-M.K.); (C.-S.L.)
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, #7 Chung-Shan South Road, Taipei 10002, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Li Yu
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital and National Taiwan University College of Medicine, #7 Chung-Shan South Road, Taipei 10002, Taiwan; (S.-C.H.); (K.-J.L.); (C.-Y.S.); (C.-H.W.); (Y.-M.K.); (C.-S.L.)
- Correspondence: (C.-Y.T.); (C.-L.Y.); Fax: +886-2-28717483 (C.-Y.T.); +886-2-23957801 (C.-L.Y.)
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18
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Ramos PS. Epigenetics of scleroderma: Integrating genetic, ethnic, age, and environmental effects. JOURNAL OF SCLERODERMA AND RELATED DISORDERS 2019; 4:238-250. [PMID: 35382507 PMCID: PMC8922566 DOI: 10.1177/2397198319855872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2019] [Accepted: 05/15/2019] [Indexed: 08/02/2023]
Abstract
Scleroderma or systemic sclerosis is thought to result from the interplay between environmental or non-genetic factors in a genetically susceptible individual. Epigenetic modifications are influenced by genetic variation and environmental exposures, and change with chronological age and between populations. Despite progress in identifying genetic, epigenetic, and environmental risk factors, the underlying mechanism of systemic sclerosis remains unclear. Since epigenetics provides the regulatory mechanism linking genetic and non-genetic factors to gene expression, understanding the role of epigenetic regulation in systemic sclerosis will elucidate how these factors interact to cause systemic sclerosis. Among the cell types under tight epigenetic control and susceptible to epigenetic dysregulation, immune cells are critically involved in early pathogenic events in the progression of fibrosis and systemic sclerosis. This review starts by summarizing the changes in DNA methylation, histone modification, and non-coding RNAs associated with systemic sclerosis. It then discusses the role of genetic, ethnic, age, and environmental effects on epigenetic regulation, with a focus on immune system dysregulation. Given the potential of epigenome editing technologies for cell reprogramming and as a therapeutic approach for durable gene regulation, this review concludes with a prospect on epigenetic editing. Although epigenomics in systemic sclerosis is in its infancy, future studies will help elucidate the regulatory mechanisms underpinning systemic sclerosis and inform the design of targeted epigenetic therapies to control its dysregulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula S Ramos
- Paula S. Ramos, Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Department of Medicine and Department of Public Health Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, 96 Jonathan Lucas Street, Suite 816, MSC 637, Charleston, SC 29425, USA.
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19
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Korman B. Evolving insights into the cellular and molecular pathogenesis of fibrosis in systemic sclerosis. Transl Res 2019; 209:77-89. [PMID: 30876809 PMCID: PMC6545260 DOI: 10.1016/j.trsl.2019.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2018] [Revised: 01/27/2019] [Accepted: 02/20/2019] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc, scleroderma) is a complex multisystem disease characterized by autoimmunity, vasculopathy, and most notably, fibrosis. Multiple lines of evidence demonstrate a variety of emerging cellular and molecular pathways which are relevant to fibrosis in SSc. The myofibroblast remains the key effector cell in SSc. Understanding the development, differentiation, and function of the myofibroblast is therefore crucial to understanding the fibrotic phenotype of SSc. Studies now show that (1) multiple cell types give rise to myofibroblasts, (2) fibroblasts and myofibroblasts are heterogeneous, and (3) that a large number of (primarily immune) cells have important influences on the transition of fibroblasts to an activated myofibroblasts. In SSc, this differentiation process involves multiple pathways, including well known signaling cascades such as TGF-β and Wnt/β-Catenin signaling, as well as epigenetic reprogramming and a number of more recently defined cellular pathways. After reviewing the major and emerging cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying SSc, this article looks to identify clinical applications where this new molecular knowledge may allow for targeted treatment and personalized medicine approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Korman
- Division of Allergy/Immunology & Rheumatology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York.
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