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Fukasawa T, Yoshizaki-Ogawa A, Sato S, Yoshizaki A. The role of B cells in systemic sclerosis. J Dermatol 2024; 51:904-913. [PMID: 38321641 DOI: 10.1111/1346-8138.17134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare and refractory systemic disease characterized by fibrosis and vasculopathy in the presence of autoimmune abnormalities. While the exact cause of SSc is incompletely understood, the specific autoantibodies identified in SSc are closely linked to disease severity and prognosis, indicating a significant role of autoimmune abnormalities in the pathogenesis of SSc. Although the direct pathogenic mechanisms of autoantibodies in SSc are not fully elucidated, numerous prior investigations have demonstrated the involvement of B cells in the pathogenesis of SSc through various mechanisms. Additionally, several clinical trials have explored the efficacy of B-cell depletion therapy for SSc, with many reporting positive outcomes. However, the role of B cells in SSc pathogenesis is multifaceted, as they can both promote inflammation and exert inhibitory functions. This article provides an overview of the involvement of B cells in SSc development, incorporating the latest research findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takemichi Fukasawa
- Department of Dermatology, Systemic Sclerosis Center, The University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Clinical Cannabinoid Research, The University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Asako Yoshizaki-Ogawa
- Department of Dermatology, Systemic Sclerosis Center, The University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shinichi Sato
- Department of Dermatology, Systemic Sclerosis Center, The University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ayumi Yoshizaki
- Department of Dermatology, Systemic Sclerosis Center, The University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Clinical Cannabinoid Research, The University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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2
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Tan JC, Ko MK, Woo JI, Lu KL, Kelber JA. Aqueous humor TGFβ and fibrillin-1 in Tsk mice reveal clues to POAG pathogenesis. Sci Rep 2024; 14:3517. [PMID: 38347040 PMCID: PMC10861487 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-53659-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Aqueous humor (AH) and blood levels of transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) are elevated in idiopathic primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) representing a disease biomarker of unclear status and function. Tsk mice display a POAG phenotype and harbor a mutation of fibrillin-1, an important regulator of TGFβ bioavailability. AH TGFβ2 was higher in Tsk than wild-type (WT) mice (by 34%; p = 0.002; ELISA); similarly, AH TGFβ2 was higher in human POAG than controls (2.7-fold; p = 0.00005). As in POAG, TGFβ1 was elevated in Tsk serum (p = 0.01). Fibrillin-1 was detected in AH from POAG subjects and Tsk mice where both had similar levels relative to controls (p = 0.45). 350 kDa immunoblot bands representing WT full-length fibrillin-1 were present in human and mouse AH. A 418 kDa band representing mutant full-length fibrillin-1 was present only in Tsk mice. Lower molecular weight fibrillin-1 antibody-reactive bands were present in similar patterns in humans and mice. Certain bands (130 and 32 kDa) were elevated only in human POAG and Tsk mice (p ≤ 0.04 relative to controls) indicating discrete isoforms relevant to disease. In addition to sharing a phenotype, Tsk mice and human POAG subjects had common TGFβ and fibrillin-1 features in AH and also blood that are pertinent to understanding glaucoma pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- James C Tan
- Sightgene, Inc., 9227 Reseda Blvd, #182, Northridge, CA, 91324-3137, USA.
- Doheny Eye Institute, Pasadena, CA, USA.
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | | | | | - Kenneth L Lu
- Doheny Eye Institute, Pasadena, CA, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jonathan A Kelber
- Developmental Oncogene Laboratory, California State University Northridge, Northridge, CA, USA
- Department of Biology, Baylor University, Waco, TX, USA
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3
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Summers KM. Genetic models of fibrillinopathies. Genetics 2024; 226:iyad189. [PMID: 37972149 PMCID: PMC11021029 DOI: 10.1093/genetics/iyad189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The fibrillinopathies represent a group of diseases in which the 10-12 nm extracellular microfibrils are disrupted by genetic variants in one of the genes encoding fibrillin molecules, large glycoproteins of the extracellular matrix. The best-known fibrillinopathy is Marfan syndrome, an autosomal dominant condition affecting the cardiovascular, ocular, skeletal, and other systems, with a prevalence of around 1 in 3,000 across all ethnic groups. It is caused by variants of the FBN1 gene, encoding fibrillin-1, which interacts with elastin to provide strength and elasticity to connective tissues. A number of mouse models have been created in an attempt to replicate the human phenotype, although all have limitations. There are also natural bovine models and engineered models in pig and rabbit. Variants in FBN2 encoding fibrillin-2 cause congenital contractural arachnodactyly and mouse models for this condition have also been produced. In most animals, including birds, reptiles, and amphibians, there is a third fibrillin, fibrillin-3 (FBN3 gene) for which the creation of models has been difficult as the gene is degenerate and nonfunctional in mice and rats. Other eukaryotes such as the nematode C. elegans and zebrafish D. rerio have a gene with some homology to fibrillins and models have been used to discover more about the function of this family of proteins. This review looks at the phenotype, inheritance, and relevance of the various animal models for the different fibrillinopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kim M Summers
- Mater Research Institute-University of Queensland, Translational Research Institute, Woolloongabba QLD 4102, Australia
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4
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Wang W, Bale S, Wei J, Yalavarthi B, Bhattacharyya D, Yan JJ, Abdala-Valencia H, Xu D, Sun H, Marangoni RG, Herzog E, Berdnikovs S, Miller SD, Sawalha AH, Tsou PS, Awaji K, Yamashita T, Sato S, Asano Y, Tiruppathi C, Yeldandi A, Schock BC, Bhattacharyya S, Varga J. Fibroblast A20 governs fibrosis susceptibility and its repression by DREAM promotes fibrosis in multiple organs. Nat Commun 2022; 13:6358. [PMID: 36289219 PMCID: PMC9606375 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-33767-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
In addition to autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, variants of the TNFAIP3 gene encoding the ubiquitin-editing enzyme A20 are also associated with fibrosis in systemic sclerosis (SSc). However, it remains unclear how genetic factors contribute to SSc pathogenesis, and which cell types drive the disease due to SSc-specific genetic alterations. We therefore characterize the expression, function, and role of A20, and its negative transcriptional regulator DREAM, in patients with SSc and disease models. Levels of A20 are significantly reduced in SSc skin and lungs, while DREAM is elevated. In isolated fibroblasts, A20 mitigates ex vivo profibrotic responses. Mice haploinsufficient for A20, or harboring fibroblasts-specific A20 deletion, recapitulate major pathological features of SSc, whereas DREAM-null mice with elevated A20 expression are protected. In DREAM-null fibroblasts, TGF-β induces the expression of A20, compared to wild-type fibroblasts. An anti-fibrotic small molecule targeting cellular adiponectin receptors stimulates A20 expression in vitro in wild-type but not A20-deficient fibroblasts and in bleomycin-treated mice. Thus, A20 has a novel cell-intrinsic function in restraining fibroblast activation, and together with DREAM, constitutes a critical regulatory network governing the fibrotic process in SSc. A20 and DREAM represent novel druggable targets for fibrosis therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenxia Wang
- Northwestern Scleroderma Program, Department of Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Swarna Bale
- Northwestern Scleroderma Program, Department of Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
- Michigan Scleroderma Program, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Jun Wei
- Northwestern Scleroderma Program, Department of Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Bharath Yalavarthi
- Michigan Scleroderma Program, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Dibyendu Bhattacharyya
- Michigan Scleroderma Program, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Jing Jing Yan
- Northwestern Scleroderma Program, Department of Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Hiam Abdala-Valencia
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Dan Xu
- Department of Microbiology-Immunology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Hanshi Sun
- Michigan Scleroderma Program, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Roberta G Marangoni
- Northwestern Scleroderma Program, Department of Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Erica Herzog
- Department of Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Sergejs Berdnikovs
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Stephen D Miller
- Department of Microbiology-Immunology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Amr H Sawalha
- Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Pei-Suen Tsou
- Michigan Scleroderma Program, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Kentaro Awaji
- Department of Dermatology, University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - Takashi Yamashita
- Department of Dermatology, University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - Shinichi Sato
- Department of Dermatology, University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - Yoshihide Asano
- Department of Dermatology, University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - Chinnaswamy Tiruppathi
- Department of Pharmacology and Center for Lung and Vascular Biology, College of Medicine, University of Illinois, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Anjana Yeldandi
- Department of Pathology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Bettina C Schock
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, Queens University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Swati Bhattacharyya
- Northwestern Scleroderma Program, Department of Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA.
- Michigan Scleroderma Program, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA.
| | - John Varga
- Northwestern Scleroderma Program, Department of Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA.
- Michigan Scleroderma Program, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA.
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5
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Yoshizaki A, Fukasawa T, Ebata S, Yoshizaki-Ogawa A, Sato S. Involvement of B cells in the development of systemic sclerosis. Front Immunol 2022; 13:938785. [PMID: 35967355 PMCID: PMC9365989 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.938785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare intractable systemic disease that causes fibrosis and vasculopathy against a background of autoimmune abnormalities. Although the etiology is not yet fully understood, the type of autoantibodies detected in SSc is closely associated with disease severity and prognosis, supporting that those autoimmune abnormalities play an important role in the pathogenesis of SSc. Although the direct pathogenicity of autoantibodies found in SSc is unknown, many previous studies have shown that B cells are involved in the development of SSc through a variety of functions. Furthermore, a number of clinical studies have been conducted in which B-cell depletion therapy has been tried for SSc, and many of these studies have found B-cell depletion therapy to be effective for SSc. However, the involvement of B cells in pathogenesis is complex, as they not only promote inflammation but also play an inhibitory role. This article outlines the role of B cells in the development of SSc, including the latest research.
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Ko MK, Woo JI, Gonzalez JM, Kim G, Sakai L, Peti-Peterdi J, Kelber JA, Hong YK, Tan JC. Fibrillin-1 mutant mouse captures defining features of human primary open glaucoma including anomalous aqueous humor TGF beta-2. Sci Rep 2022; 12:10623. [PMID: 35739142 PMCID: PMC9226129 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-14062-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) features an optic neuropathy, elevated aqueous humor (AH) TGFβ2, and major risk factors of central corneal thickness (CCT), increasing age and intraocular pressure (IOP). We examined Tight skin (Tsk) mice to see if mutation of fibrillin-1, a repository for latent TGFβ, is associated with characteristics of human POAG. We measured: CCT by ocular coherence tomography (OCT); IOP; retinal ganglion cell (RGC) and optic nerve axon counts by microscopic techniques; visual electrophysiologic scotopic threshold responses (STR) and pattern electroretinogram (PERG); and AH TGFβ2 levels and activity by ELISA and MINK epithelial cell-based assays respectively. Tsk mice had open anterior chamber angles and compared with age-matched wild type (WT) mice: 23% thinner CCT (p < 0.003); IOP that was higher (p < 0.0001), more asymmetric (p = 0.047), rose with age (p = 0.04) and had a POAG-like frequency distribution. Tsk mice also had RGCs that were fewer (p < 0.04), declined with age (p = 0.0003) and showed increased apoptosis and glial activity; fewer optic nerve axons (p = 0.02); abnormal axons and glia; reduced STR (p < 0.002) and PERG (p < 0.007) visual responses; and higher AH TGFβ2 levels (p = 0.0002) and activity (p = 1E-11) especially with age. Tsk mice showed defining features of POAG, implicating aberrant fibrillin-1 homeostasis as a pathogenic contributor to emergence of a POAG phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Lynn Sakai
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Oregon Health Sciences University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Janos Peti-Peterdi
- Departments of Physiology, Biophysics and Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jonathan A Kelber
- Developmental Oncogene Laboratory, California State University Northridge, Northridge, CA, USA
| | - Young-Kwon Hong
- Department of Surgery, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - James C Tan
- Doheny Eye Institute, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
- Sightgene, Inc., 9227 Reseda Blvd, #182, Northridge, CA, 91324-3137, USA.
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7
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Györfi AH, Matei AE, Fuchs M, Liang C, Rigau AR, Hong X, Zhu H, Luber M, Bergmann C, Dees C, Ludolph I, Horch RE, Distler O, Wang J, Bengsch B, Schett G, Kunz M, Distler JH. Engrailed 1 coordinates cytoskeletal reorganization to induce myofibroblast differentiation. J Exp Med 2021; 218:e20201916. [PMID: 34259830 PMCID: PMC8288503 DOI: 10.1084/jem.20201916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Revised: 04/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ) is a key mediator of fibroblast activation in fibrotic diseases, including systemic sclerosis. Here we show that Engrailed 1 (EN1) is reexpressed in multiple fibroblast subpopulations in the skin of SSc patients. We characterize EN1 as a molecular amplifier of TGFβ signaling in myofibroblast differentiation: TGFβ induces EN1 expression in a SMAD3-dependent manner, and in turn, EN1 mediates the profibrotic effects of TGFβ. RNA sequencing demonstrates that EN1 induces a profibrotic gene expression profile functionally related to cytoskeleton organization and ROCK activation. EN1 regulates gene expression by modulating the activity of SP1 and other SP transcription factors, as confirmed by ChIP-seq experiments for EN1 and SP1. Functional experiments confirm the coordinating role of EN1 on ROCK activity and the reorganization of cytoskeleton during myofibroblast differentiation, in both standard fibroblast culture systems and in vitro skin models. Consistently, mice with fibroblast-specific knockout of En1 demonstrate impaired fibroblast-to-myofibroblast transition and are partially protected from experimental skin fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea-Hermina Györfi
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 - Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg and University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg and University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Alexandru-Emil Matei
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 - Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg and University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg and University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Maximilian Fuchs
- Medical Informatics, Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Chunguang Liang
- Medical Informatics, Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Aleix Rius Rigau
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 - Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg and University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg and University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Xuezhi Hong
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 - Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg and University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg and University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Honglin Zhu
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 - Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg and University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg and University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
- Department of Rheumatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, P.R. China
| | - Markus Luber
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 - Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg and University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg and University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Christina Bergmann
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 - Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg and University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg and University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Clara Dees
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 - Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg and University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg and University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Ingo Ludolph
- Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg and University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Raymund E. Horch
- Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg and University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Oliver Distler
- Department of Rheumatology, Center of Experimental Rheumatology, University Hospital of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Jiucun Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Collaborative Innovation Center for Genetics and Development, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
- Human Phenome Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
- Institute of Rheumatology, Immunology and Allergy, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Bertram Bengsch
- Department of Medicine II: Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, and Infectious Disease, University Medical Center Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- BIOSS Centre for Biological Signaling Studies, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Georg Schett
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 - Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg and University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg and University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Meik Kunz
- Medical Informatics, Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Jörg H.W. Distler
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 - Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg and University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg and University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
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8
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Mouse Models of Skin Fibrosis. Methods Mol Biol 2021; 2299:371-383. [PMID: 34028755 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-1382-5_25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/14/2023]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare systemic autoimmune disease associated with a high mortality. The first histopathological hallmarks are vasculopathy and inflammation, followed by fibrosis of the skin and internal organs. The molecular and cellular mechanisms are incompletely understood. Rodent models provide important insights into the pathogenesis of SSc and are a mainstay for the development of novel targeted therapies. Here we describe the mechanistic insights of inducible and genetic models, and also discuss in detail the limitations and pitfalls of the most frequently used SSc mouse models. We also describe protocols for running the established bleomycin-induced scleroderma skin fibrosis model.
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9
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Zhang RM, Zeyer KA, Odenthal N, Zhang Y, Reinhardt DP. The fibrillin-1 RGD motif posttranscriptionally regulates ERK1/2 signaling and fibroblast proliferation via miR-1208. FASEB J 2021; 35:e21598. [PMID: 33871068 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202100282r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Revised: 03/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Fibrillin-1 is an extracellular matrix protein which contains one conserved RGD integrin-binding motif. It constitutes the backbone of microfibrils in many tissues, and mutations in fibrillin-1 cause various connective tissue disorders. Although it is well established that fibrillin-1 interacts with several RGD-dependent integrins, very little is known about the associated intracellular signaling pathways. Recent published evidence identified a subset of miRNAs regulated by fibrillin-1 RGD-cell adhesion, with miR-1208 among the most downregulated. The present study shows that the downregulated miR-1208 controls fibroblast proliferation. Inhibitor experiments revealed that fibrillin-1 RGD suppressed miR-1208 expression via c-Src kinase and the downstream JNK signaling. Bioinformatic prediction and experimental target sequence validation demonstrated four miR-1208 binding sites on the ERK2 mRNA and one on the MEK1 mRNA. ERK2 and MEK1 are critical proliferation-promoting kinases. Decreased miR-1208 levels elevated the total and phosphorylated ERK1/2 and MEK1/2 protein levels and the phosphorylated to total ERK1/2 ratio. Together, the data demonstrate a novel outside-in signaling mechanism explaining how fibrillin-1 RGD-cell binding regulates fibroblast proliferation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong-Mo Zhang
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Karina A Zeyer
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Nadine Odenthal
- Department of Natural Science, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Yiyun Zhang
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Dieter P Reinhardt
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University, Montreal, Canada.,Faculty of Dentistry, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
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10
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A Review of the Evidence for and against a Role for Mast Cells in Cutaneous Scarring and Fibrosis. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21249673. [PMID: 33353063 PMCID: PMC7766369 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21249673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Revised: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 12/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Scars are generated in mature skin as a result of the normal repair process, but the replacement of normal tissue with scar tissue can lead to biomechanical and functional deficiencies in the skin as well as psychological and social issues for patients that negatively affect quality of life. Abnormal scars, such as hypertrophic scars and keloids, and cutaneous fibrosis that develops in diseases such as systemic sclerosis and graft-versus-host disease can be even more challenging for patients. There is a large body of literature suggesting that inflammation promotes the deposition of scar tissue by fibroblasts. Mast cells represent one inflammatory cell type in particular that has been implicated in skin scarring and fibrosis. Most published studies in this area support a pro-fibrotic role for mast cells in the skin, as many mast cell-derived mediators stimulate fibroblast activity and studies generally indicate higher numbers of mast cells and/or mast cell activation in scars and fibrotic skin. However, some studies in mast cell-deficient mice have suggested that these cells may not play a critical role in cutaneous scarring/fibrosis. Here, we will review the data for and against mast cells as key regulators of skin fibrosis and discuss scientific gaps in the field.
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11
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Adamo CS, Zuk AV, Sengle G. The fibrillin microfibril/elastic fibre network: A critical extracellular supramolecular scaffold to balance skin homoeostasis. Exp Dermatol 2020; 30:25-37. [PMID: 32920888 DOI: 10.1111/exd.14191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2020] [Revised: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Supramolecular networks composed of fibrillins (fibrillin-1 and fibrillin-2) and associated ligands form intricate cellular microenvironments which balance skin homoeostasis and direct remodelling. Fibrillins assemble into microfibrils which are not only indispensable for conferring elasticity to the skin, but also control the bioavailability of growth factors targeted to the extracellular matrix architecture. Fibrillin microfibrils (FMF) represent the core scaffolds for elastic fibre formation, and they also decorate the surface of elastic fibres and form independent networks. In normal dermis, elastic fibres are suspended in a three-dimensional basket-like lattice of FMF intersecting basement membranes at the dermal-epidermal junction and thus conferring pliability to the skin. The importance of FMF for skin homoeostasis is illustrated by the clinical features caused by mutations in the human fibrillin genes (FBN1, FBN2), summarized as "fibrillinopathies." In skin, fibrillin mutations result in phenotypes ranging from thick, stiff and fibrotic skin to thin, lax and hyperextensible skin. The most plausible explanation for this spectrum of phenotypic outcomes is that FMF regulate growth factor signalling essential for proper growth and homoeostasis of the skin. Here, we will give an overview about the current understanding of the underlying pathomechanisms leading to fibrillin-dependent fibrosis as well as forms of cutis laxa caused by mutational inactivation of FMF-associated ligands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christin S Adamo
- Center for Biochemistry, Medical Faculty, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Alexandra V Zuk
- Center for Biochemistry, Medical Faculty, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Gerhard Sengle
- Center for Biochemistry, Medical Faculty, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Cologne Center for Musculoskeletal Biomechanics (CCMB), Cologne, Germany
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12
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Yap WF, Chong HC. Co-existence of Marfan syndrome and systemic sclerosis: A case report and a hypothesis suggesting a common link. Int J Rheum Dis 2020; 23:1568-1573. [PMID: 32969582 DOI: 10.1111/1756-185x.13965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Revised: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
FBN1 gene encodes for the connective tissue protein fibrillin-1 which can also regulate the profibrotic cytokine transforming growth factor (TGF)-ß1. Mutations in the FBN1 gene cause Marfan syndrome (MFS), a genetic condition with defective connective tissues. FBN1 haplotypes and single nucleotide polymorphisms have also been reported to be associated with systemic sclerosis (SSc), a connective tissue disease characterized by fibrosis of multiple organs. Furthermore, the duplication of the Fbn1 gene causes a SSc-like disease in the TsK1 mouse model. To the best of our knowledge, there are no reports of MFS and SSc co-existing in a patient. Here, we describe a 46-year-old woman who presented with cardiac failure. She had a family history of MFS. Physical examination revealed marfanoid habitus and scleroderma features. Echocardiography demonstrated dilated cardiomyopathy with aortic root dilatation, aortic regurgitation and mitral regurgitation. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging was consistent with dilated cardiomyopathy, mid-wall fibrosis at basal septal wall and dilated aortic root. Extractable nuclear antigen panel detected anti-Scl 70. She fulfilled Ghent criteria for MFS and satisfied American College of Rheumatology/ European League Against Rheumatism classification criteria for SSc. Although we do not have the FBN1 sequence in our patient, the co-existence of MFS and SSc in this patient raises the possibility of co-existence of distinct mutations in the FBN1 gene that could affect TGF-β signaling differently, resulting in divergent pathologic consequences - loss of structural integrity in MFS versus increased extracellular matrix deposition in SSc, and different clinical manifestations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wee Fang Yap
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medicine, Hospital Melaka, Melaka, Malaysia
| | - Hwee Cheng Chong
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medicine, Hospital Melaka, Melaka, Malaysia
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13
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Weng T, Huang J, Wagner EJ, Ko J, Wu M, Wareing NE, Xiang Y, Chen NY, Ji P, Molina JG, Volcik KA, Han L, Mayes MD, Blackburn MR, Assassi S. Downregulation of CFIm25 amplifies dermal fibrosis through alternative polyadenylation. J Exp Med 2020; 217:jem.20181384. [PMID: 31757866 PMCID: PMC7041714 DOI: 10.1084/jem.20181384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2018] [Revised: 03/19/2019] [Accepted: 09/17/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
This study implicates the key regulator of alternative polyadenylation, CFIm25 in dermal fibrosis and in systemic sclerosis (scleroderma) pathogenesis. CFIm25 downregulation promotes the expression of profibrotic factors, exaggerates bleomycin-induced skin fibrosis, while CFIm25 restoration attenuates skin fibrosis. Systemic sclerosis (SSc; scleroderma) is a multisystem fibrotic disease. The mammalian cleavage factor I 25-kD subunit (CFIm25; encoded by NUDT21) is a key regulator of alternative polyadenylation, and its depletion causes predominantly 3′UTR shortening through loss of stimulation of distal polyadenylation sites. A shortened 3′UTR will often lack microRNA target sites, resulting in increased mRNA translation due to evasion of microRNA-mediated repression. Herein, we report that CFlm25 is downregulated in SSc skin, primary dermal fibroblasts, and two murine models of dermal fibrosis. Knockdown of CFIm25 in normal skin fibroblasts is sufficient to promote the 3′UTR shortening of key TGFβ-regulated fibrotic genes and enhance their protein expression. Moreover, several of these fibrotic transcripts show 3′UTR shortening in SSc skin. Finally, mice with CFIm25 deletion in fibroblasts show exaggerated skin fibrosis upon bleomycin treatment, and CFIm25 restoration attenuates bleomycin-induced skin fibrosis. Overall, our data link this novel RNA-processing mechanism to dermal fibrosis and SSc pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Weng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX
| | - Jingjing Huang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX.,Department of Geriatrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Eric J Wagner
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX
| | - Junsuk Ko
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX
| | - Minghua Wu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX
| | - Nancy E Wareing
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX
| | - Yu Xiang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX
| | - Ning-Yuan Chen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX
| | - Ping Ji
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX
| | - Jose G Molina
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX
| | - Kelly A Volcik
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX
| | - Leng Han
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX
| | - Maureen D Mayes
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX
| | - Michael R Blackburn
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX
| | - Shervin Assassi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX
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14
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Pro-Fibrotic Phenotype in a Patient with Segmental Stiff Skin Syndrome via TGF-β Signaling Overactivation. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21145141. [PMID: 32698527 PMCID: PMC7404389 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21145141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Revised: 07/16/2020] [Accepted: 07/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) superfamily signaling pathways are ubiquitous and essential for several cellular and physiological processes. The overexpression of TGF-β results in excessive fibrosis in multiple human disorders. Among them, stiff skin syndrome (SSS) is an ultrarare and untreatable condition characterized by the progressive thickening and hardening of the dermis, and acquired joint limitations. SSS is distinct in a widespread form, caused by recurrent germline variants of FBN1 encoding a key molecule of the TGF-β signaling, and a segmental form with unknown molecular basis. Here, we report a 12-year-old female with segmental SSS, affecting the right upper limb with acquired thickening of the dermis evident at the magnetic resonance imaging, and progressive limitation of the elbow and shoulder. To better explore the molecular and cellular mechanisms that drive segmental SSS, several functional studies on patient's fibroblasts were employed. We hypothesized an impairment of TGF-β signaling and, consequently, a dysregulation of the associated downstream signaling. Lesional fibroblast studies showed a higher phosphorylation level of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2), increased levels of nuclear factor-kB (NFkB), and a nuclear accumulation of phosphorylated Smad2 via Western blot and microscopy analyses. Quantitative PCR expression analysis of genes encoding key extracellular matrix proteins revealed increased levels of COL1A1, COL3A1, AGT, LTBP and ITGB1, while zymography assay reported a reduced metalloproteinase 2 enzymatic activity. In vitro exposure of patient's fibroblasts to losartan led to the partial restoration of normal transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) marker protein levels. Taken together, these data demonstrate that in our patient, segmental SSS is characterized by the overactivation of multiple TGF-β signaling pathways, which likely results in altered extracellular matrix composition and fibroblast homeostasis. Our results for the first time reported that aberrant TGF-β signaling may drive the pathogenesis of segmental SSS and might open the way to novel therapeutic approaches.
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15
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Alam J, Musiime M, Romaine A, Sawant M, Melleby AO, Lu N, Eckes B, Christensen G, Gullberg D. Generation of a novel mouse strain with fibroblast-specific expression of Cre recombinase. Matrix Biol Plus 2020; 8:100045. [PMID: 33543038 PMCID: PMC7852330 DOI: 10.1016/j.mbplus.2020.100045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Revised: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell-specific expression of genes offers the possibility to use their promoters to drive expression of Cre-recombinase, thereby allowing for detailed expression analysis using reporter gene systems, cell lineage tracing, conditional gene deletion, and cell ablation. In this context, current data suggest that the integrin α11 subunit has the potential to serve as a fibroblast biomarker in tissue regeneration and pathology, in particular in wound healing and in tissue- and tumor fibrosis. The mesenchyme-restricted expression pattern of integrin α11 thus prompted us to generate a novel ITGA11-driver Cre mouse strain using a ϕC31 integrase-mediated knock-in approach. In this transgenic mouse, the Cre recombinase is driven by regulatory promoter elements within the 3 kb segment of the human ITGA11 gene. β-Galactosidase staining of embryonic tissues obtained from a transgenic ITGA11-Cre mouse line crossed with Rosa 26R reporter mice (ITGA11-Cre;R26R) revealed ITGA11-driven Cre expression and activity in mesenchymal cells in a variety of mesenchymal tissues in a pattern reminiscent of endogenous α11 protein expression in mouse embryos. Interestingly, X-gal staining of mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) isolated from the ITGA11-Cre;R26R mice indicated heterogeneity in the MEF population. ITGA11-driven Cre activity was shown in approximately 60% of the MEFs, suggesting that the expression of integrin α11 could be exploited for isolation of different fibroblast populations. ITGA11-driven Cre expression was found to be low in adult mouse tissues but was induced in granulation tissue of excisional wounds and in fibrotic hearts following aortic banding. We predict that the ITGA11-Cre transgenic mouse strain described in this report will be a useful tool in matrix research for the deletion of genes in subsets of fibroblasts in the developing mouse and for determining the function of subsets of pro-fibrotic fibroblasts in tissue fibrosis and in different subsets of cancer-associated fibroblasts in the tumor microenvironment. A mouse strain with Cre-recombinase driven by the human integrin α11 promoter has been generated. Cre-recombinase expression in this strain has been characterized using the Rosa26R reporter mouse. ITGA11-Cre is restricted to fibroblast subsets in mouse embryos, skin wounds and fibrotic hearts. This Cre-driver strain will be a useful tool to study role fibroblasts in fibrosis and tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jahedul Alam
- Department of Biomedicine and Center of Cancer Biomarkers, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Moses Musiime
- Department of Biomedicine and Center of Cancer Biomarkers, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Andreas Romaine
- Institute for Experimental Medical Research, Oslo University Hospital and University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- KG Jebsen Center for Cardiac Research, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Center for Heart Failure Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Mugdha Sawant
- Translational Matrix Biology, University of Cologne Medical Faculty, Cologne, Germany
| | - Arne Olav Melleby
- Institute for Experimental Medical Research, Oslo University Hospital and University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- KG Jebsen Center for Cardiac Research, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Center for Heart Failure Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Ning Lu
- Department of Biomedicine and Center of Cancer Biomarkers, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Beate Eckes
- Translational Matrix Biology, University of Cologne Medical Faculty, Cologne, Germany
| | - Geir Christensen
- Institute for Experimental Medical Research, Oslo University Hospital and University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- KG Jebsen Center for Cardiac Research, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Center for Heart Failure Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Donald Gullberg
- Department of Biomedicine and Center of Cancer Biomarkers, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Corresponding author Department of Biomedicine and Center of Cancer Biomarkers, University of Bergen, Jonas Lies vei 91, N-5009 Bergen, Norway.
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16
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Kania G, Rudnik M, Distler O. Involvement of the myeloid cell compartment in fibrogenesis and systemic sclerosis. Nat Rev Rheumatol 2020; 15:288-302. [PMID: 30953037 DOI: 10.1038/s41584-019-0212-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune fibrotic disease of unknown aetiology that is characterized by vascular changes in the skin and visceral organs. Autologous haematopoietic stem cell transplantation can improve skin and organ fibrosis in patients with progressive disease and a high risk of organ failure, indicating that cells originating in the bone marrow are important contributors to the pathogenesis of SSc. Animal studies also indicate a pivotal function of myeloid cells in the development of fibrosis leading to changes in the tissue architecture and dysfunction in multiple organs such as the heart, lungs, liver and kidney. In this Review, we summarize current knowledge about the function of myeloid cells in fibrogenesis that occurs in patients with SSc. Targeted therapies currently in clinical studies for SSc might affect myeloid cell-related pathways. Therefore, myeloid cells might be used as cellular biomarkers of disease through the application of high-dimensional techniques such as mass cytometry and single-cell RNA sequencing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Kania
- Department of Rheumatology, Center of Experimental Rheumatology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Michal Rudnik
- Department of Rheumatology, Center of Experimental Rheumatology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Oliver Distler
- Department of Rheumatology, Center of Experimental Rheumatology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
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17
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The acute kidney injury to chronic kidney disease transition in a mouse model of acute cardiorenal syndrome emphasizes the role of inflammation. Kidney Int 2019; 97:95-105. [PMID: 31623859 DOI: 10.1016/j.kint.2019.06.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2018] [Revised: 06/19/2019] [Accepted: 06/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Acute cardiorenal syndrome is a common complication of acute cardiovascular disease. Studies of acute kidney injury (AKI) to chronic kidney disease (CKD) transition, including patients suffering acute cardiovascular disease, report high rates of CKD development. Therefore, acute cardiorenal syndrome associates with CKD, but no study has established causation. To define this we used a murine cardiac arrest (CA) and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) model or sham procedure on male mice. CA was induced with potassium chloride while CPR consisted of chest compressions and epinephrine eight minutes later. Two weeks after AKI was induced by CA/CPR, the measured glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was not different from sham. However, after seven weeks the mice developed CKD, recapitulating clinical observations. One day, and one, two, and seven weeks after CA/CPR, the GFR was measured, and renal tissue sections were evaluated for various indices of injury and inflammation. One day after CA/CPR, acute cardiorenal syndrome was indicated by a significant reduction of the mean GFR (649 in sham, vs. 25 μL/min/100g in CA/CPR animals), KIM-1 positive tubules, and acute tubular necrosis. Renal inflammation developed, with F4/80 positive and CD3-positive cells infiltrating the kidney one day and one week after CA/CPR, respectively. Although there was functional recovery with normalization of GFR two weeks after CA/CPR, deposition of tubulointerstitial matrix proteins α-smooth muscle actin and fibrillin-1 progressed, along with a significantly reduced mean GFR (623 in sham vs. 409 μL/min/100g in CA/CPR animals), proteinuria, increased tissue transforming growth factor-β, and fibrosis establishing the development of CKD seven weeks after CA/CPR. Thus, murine CA/CPR, a model of acute cardiorenal syndrome, causes an AKI-CKD transition likely due to prolonged renal inflammation.
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18
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Zigrino P, Sengle G. Fibrillin microfibrils and proteases, key integrators of fibrotic pathways. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2019; 146:3-16. [PMID: 29709492 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2018.04.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2017] [Revised: 04/12/2018] [Accepted: 04/25/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Supramolecular networks composed of multi-domain ECM proteins represent intricate cellular microenvironments which are required to balance tissue homeostasis and direct remodeling. Structural deficiency in ECM proteins results in imbalances in ECM-cell communication resulting often times in fibrotic reactions. To understand how individual components of the ECM integrate communication with the cell surface by presenting growth factors or providing fine-tuned biomechanical properties is mandatory for gaining a better understanding of disease mechanisms in the quest for new therapeutic approaches. Here we provide an overview about what we can learn from inherited connective tissue disorders caused primarily by mutations in fibrillin-1 and binding partners as well as by altered ECM processing leading to defined structural changes and similar functional knock-in mouse models. We will utilize this knowledge to propose new molecular hypotheses which should be tested in future studies.
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19
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Sanghera C, Wong LM, Panahi M, Sintou A, Hasham M, Sattler S. Cardiac phenotype in mouse models of systemic autoimmunity. Dis Model Mech 2019; 12:dmm036947. [PMID: 30858306 PMCID: PMC6451423 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.036947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Patients suffering from systemic autoimmune diseases are at significant risk of cardiovascular complications. This can be due to systemically increased levels of inflammation leading to accelerated atherosclerosis, or due to direct damage to the tissues and cells of the heart. Cardiac complications include an increased risk of myocardial infarction, myocarditis and dilated cardiomyopathy, valve disease, endothelial dysfunction, excessive fibrosis, and bona fide autoimmune-mediated tissue damage by autoantibodies or auto-reactive cells. There is, however, still a considerable need to better understand how to diagnose and treat cardiac complications in autoimmune patients. A range of inducible and spontaneous mouse models of systemic autoimmune diseases is available for mechanistic and therapeutic studies. For this Review, we systematically collated information on the cardiac phenotype in the most common inducible, spontaneous and engineered mouse models of systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis and systemic sclerosis. We also highlight selected lesser-known models of interest to provide researchers with a decision framework to choose the most suitable model for their study of heart involvement in systemic autoimmunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chandan Sanghera
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, W12 0NN, UK
| | - Lok Man Wong
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, W12 0NN, UK
| | - Mona Panahi
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, W12 0NN, UK
| | - Amalia Sintou
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, W12 0NN, UK
| | - Muneer Hasham
- The Jackson Laboratory, 600 Main Street, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA
| | - Susanne Sattler
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, W12 0NN, UK
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20
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Fujiwara C, Uehara A, Sekiguchi A, Uchiyama A, Yamazaki S, Ogino S, Yokoyama Y, Torii R, Hosoi M, Suto C, Tsunekawa K, Murakami M, Ishikawa O, Motegi S. Suppressive Regulation by MFG‐E8 of Latent Transforming Growth Factor β–Induced Fibrosis via Binding to αv Integrin: Significance in the Pathogenesis of Fibrosis in Systemic Sclerosis. Arthritis Rheumatol 2019; 71:302-314. [DOI: 10.1002/art.40701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2018] [Accepted: 08/28/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Akihito Uehara
- Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine Maebashi Japan
| | | | | | | | - Sachiko Ogino
- Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine Maebashi Japan
| | - Yoko Yokoyama
- Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine Maebashi Japan
| | - Ryoko Torii
- Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine Maebashi Japan
| | - Mari Hosoi
- Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine Maebashi Japan
| | - Chiaki Suto
- Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine Maebashi Japan
| | | | | | - Osamu Ishikawa
- Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine Maebashi Japan
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21
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Pemmari A, Leppänen T, Paukkeri EL, Scotece M, Hämäläinen M, Moilanen E. Attenuating Effects of Nortrachelogenin on IL-4 and IL-13 Induced Alternative Macrophage Activation and on Bleomycin-Induced Dermal Fibrosis. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2018; 66:13405-13413. [PMID: 30458613 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.8b03023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Excessive alternative macrophage activation contributes to fibrosis. We studied the effects of nortrachelogenin, the major lignan component of Pinus sylvestris knot extract, on alternative (M2) macrophage activation. J774 murine and THP-1 human macrophages were cultured with IL-4+IL-13 to induce alternative activation, together with the extract and its components. Effects of nortrachelogenin were also studied in bleomycin-induced murine dermal fibrosis model. Knot extract significantly decreased the expression of alternative activation markers-arginase 1 in murine macrophages (97.4 ± 1.3% inhibition at 30 μg/mL) and CCL13 and PDGF in human macrophages-as did nortrachelogenin (94.9 ± 2.4% inhibition of arginase 1 at 10 μM). Nortrachelogenin also decreased PPARγ expression but had no effect on STAT6 phosphorylation. In vivo, nortrachelogenin reduced bleomycin-induced increase in skin thickness as well as the expression of collagens COL1A1, COL1A2, and COL3A1 (all by >50%). In conclusion, nortrachelogenin suppressed IL-4+IL-13-induced alternative macrophage activation and ameliorated bleomycin-induced fibrosis, indicating therapeutic potential in fibrosing conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antti Pemmari
- The Immunopharmacology Research Group, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology , Tampere University and Tampere University Hospital , Tampere , Finland
| | - Tiina Leppänen
- The Immunopharmacology Research Group, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology , Tampere University and Tampere University Hospital , Tampere , Finland
| | - Erja-Leena Paukkeri
- The Immunopharmacology Research Group, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology , Tampere University and Tampere University Hospital , Tampere , Finland
| | - Morena Scotece
- The Immunopharmacology Research Group, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology , Tampere University and Tampere University Hospital , Tampere , Finland
| | - Mari Hämäläinen
- The Immunopharmacology Research Group, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology , Tampere University and Tampere University Hospital , Tampere , Finland
| | - Eeva Moilanen
- The Immunopharmacology Research Group, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology , Tampere University and Tampere University Hospital , Tampere , Finland
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22
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Furue M, Mitoma C, Mitoma H, Tsuji G, Chiba T, Nakahara T, Uchi H, Kadono T. Pathogenesis of systemic sclerosis-current concept and emerging treatments. Immunol Res 2018; 65:790-797. [PMID: 28488090 DOI: 10.1007/s12026-017-8926-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an intractable multifaceted disease with high mortality. Although its pathogenesis is not fully understood, recent studies have advanced our knowledge on SSc. The cardinal pathological features of SSc are autoimmunity, vasculopathy, and fibrosis. The B cells in SSc are constitutively activated and lead to the production of a plethora of autoantibodies, such as anti-topoisomerase I and anti-centromere antibodies. In addition to these autoantibodies, which are valuable for diagnostic criteria or biomarkers, many other autoantibodies targeting endothelial cells, including endothelin type A receptor and angiotensin II type I receptor, are known to be functional and induce activation or apoptosis of endothelial cells. The autoantibody-mediated endothelial cell perturbation facilitates inflammatory cell infiltration, cytokine production, and myofibroblastic transformation of fibroblasts and endothelial cells. Profibrotic cytokines, such as transforming growth factor β, connective tissue growth factor, interleukin 4/interleukin 13, and interleukin 6, play a pivotal role in collagen production from myofibroblasts. Specific treatments targeting these causative molecules may improve the clinical outcomes of patients with SSc. In this review, we summarize recent topics on the pathogenesis (autoantibodies, vasculopathy, and fibrosis), animal models, and emerging treatments for SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masutaka Furue
- Department of Dermatology, Kyushu University, Maidashi 3-1-1, Higashiku, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan. .,Research and Clinical Center for Yusho and Dioxin, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan. .,Division of Skin Surface Sensing, Department of Dermatology, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan.
| | - Chikage Mitoma
- Department of Dermatology, Kyushu University, Maidashi 3-1-1, Higashiku, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan.,Research and Clinical Center for Yusho and Dioxin, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Hiroki Mitoma
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology/Infectious Disease, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Gaku Tsuji
- Department of Dermatology, Kyushu University, Maidashi 3-1-1, Higashiku, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan.,Research and Clinical Center for Yusho and Dioxin, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Takahito Chiba
- Department of Dermatology, Kyushu University, Maidashi 3-1-1, Higashiku, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - Takeshi Nakahara
- Department of Dermatology, Kyushu University, Maidashi 3-1-1, Higashiku, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan.,Division of Skin Surface Sensing, Department of Dermatology, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Uchi
- Department of Dermatology, Kyushu University, Maidashi 3-1-1, Higashiku, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - Takafumi Kadono
- Department of Dermatology, St. Marianna University School of Medicine, Kawasaki, Japan
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23
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Yoshizaki A. Pathogenic roles of B lymphocytes in systemic sclerosis. Immunol Lett 2018; 195:76-82. [PMID: 29307688 DOI: 10.1016/j.imlet.2018.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2017] [Revised: 01/04/2018] [Accepted: 01/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a collagen disease characterized by autoimmunity and excessive extracellular matrix deposition in the skin and visceral organs. Although the pathogenic relationship between systemic autoimmunity and the clinical manifestations of SSc remains unknown, SSc patients show a variety of abnormal immune activation including the production of disease-specific autoantibodies and cytokine production. Many recent studies have demonstrated that immune cells, including T cells, B cells, and macrophages, have a variety of immunological abnormalities in SSc. So far, several groups and our group reported that B cells play a critical role in systemic autoimmunity and disease expression through various functions, such as cytokine production, lymphoid organogenesis, and induction of other immune cell activation in addition to autoantibody production. Recent studies show that B cells from SSc patients demonstrate an up-regulated CD19 expression, a crucial regulator of B cell activation, which induces chronic hyper-reactivity of memory B cells and SSc-specific autoantibody production and also causes fibrosis of several organs. Furthermore, in SSc-model mice, such as tight-skin mice, bleomycin-induced SSc model mice, and DNA topoisomerase I and complete Freund's adjuvant-induced SSc model mice, have abnormal B cell activation which associates with skin and lung fibrosis. Indeed, B cell depletion therapy using anti-CD20 Ab, Rituximab, is considered to one potential beneficial treatment for patients with SSc. However, there is no direct evidence which can explain how B cells, especially autoantigen-reactive B cells, progress or regulate disease manifestations of SSc. Collectively, B cell abnormalities in SSc is most likely participating in fibrosis and tissue damage of SSc. If the relationship between SSc-specific tissue damage and B cell abnormalities is revealed, these findings lead to novel effective therapy for SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayumi Yoshizaki
- Department of Dermatology, The University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, 113-8655, Japan.
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24
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Schrenk S, Cenzi C, Bertalot T, Conconi MT, Di Liddo R. Structural and functional failure of fibrillin‑1 in human diseases (Review). Int J Mol Med 2017; 41:1213-1223. [PMID: 29286095 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2017.3343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2017] [Accepted: 11/29/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibrillins (FBNs) are key relay molecules that form the backbone of microfibrils in elastic and non‑elastic tissues. Interacting with other components of the extracellular matrix (ECM), these ubiquitous glycoproteins exert pivotal roles in tissue development, homeostasis and repair. In addition to mechanical support, FBN networks also exhibit regulatory activities on growth factor signalling, ECM formation, cell behaviour and the immune response. Consequently, mutations affecting the structure, assembly and stability of FBN microfibrils have been associated with impaired biomechanical tissue properties, altered cell‑matrix interactions, uncontrolled growth factor or cytokine activation, and the development of fibrillinopathies and associated severe complications in multiple organs. Beyond a panoramic overview of structural cues of the FBN network, the present review will also describe the pathological implications of FBN disorders in the development of inflammatory and fibrotic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Schrenk
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Padova, I‑35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Carola Cenzi
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Padova, I‑35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Thomas Bertalot
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Padova, I‑35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Maria Teresa Conconi
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Padova, I‑35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Rosa Di Liddo
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Padova, I‑35131 Padova, Italy
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25
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Eckes B, Wang F, Moinzadeh P, Hunzelmann N, Krieg T. Pathophysiological Mechanisms in Sclerosing Skin Diseases. Front Med (Lausanne) 2017; 4:120. [PMID: 28868289 PMCID: PMC5563304 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2017.00120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2017] [Accepted: 07/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Sclerosing skin diseases represent a large number of distinct disease entities, which include systemic sclerosis, localized scleroderma, and scleredema adultorum. These pathologies have a common clinical appearance and share histological features. However, the specific interplay between cytokines and growth factors, which activate different mesenchymal cell populations and production of different extracellular matrix components, determines the biomechanical properties of the skin and the clinical features of each disease. A better understanding of the mechanisms underlying these events is prerequisite for developing novel targeted therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beate Eckes
- Department of Dermatology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Fang Wang
- Department of Dermatology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Pia Moinzadeh
- Department of Dermatology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | | | - Thomas Krieg
- Department of Dermatology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Center for Molecular Medicine (CMMC), Cologne, Germany.,Cluster of Excellence in Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), Cologne, Germany
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26
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Moritz F, Schniering J, Distler JHW, Gay RE, Gay S, Distler O, Maurer B. Tie2 as a novel key factor of microangiopathy in systemic sclerosis. Arthritis Res Ther 2017; 19:105. [PMID: 28545512 PMCID: PMC5445339 DOI: 10.1186/s13075-017-1304-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2016] [Accepted: 05/02/2017] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The angiopoietin(Ang)/Tie2 system is a key regulator of vascular biology. The expression of membrane bound (mb) Tie2 and Ang-1 ensures vessel stability, whereas Ang-2, inducible by vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), hypoxia, and inflammation, acts as an antagonist. Tie2 signalling is also attenuated by soluble Tie2 (sTie2), the extracellular domain of the receptor, which is shed upon stimulation with VEGF. Herein, we investigate the role of Ang/Tie2 in the peripheral vasculopathy in systemic sclerosis (SSc) including animal models. METHODS The expression of Ang-1/-2 and Tie2 in skin/serum of SSc patients was compared with healthy controls by immunohistochemistry (IHC)/ELISA. Expression of Ang/Tie2 was analysed in different animal models: VEGF transgenic (tg) mice, hypoxia model, bleomycin-induced skin fibrosis, and tight skin 1 (TSK1) mice. RESULTS In SSc, dermal microvessels abundantly expressed Ang-2, but not Ang-1 compared with healthy controls. The percentage of mbTie2+ microvessels was profoundly decreased whereas the levels of sTie2 were increased already in early disease. Both in skin and sera of SSc patients, the Ang1/2 ratio was reduced, being lowest in patients with digital ulcers indicating vessel destabilizing conditions. We next studied potential influencing factors in animal models. The VEGF tg mouse model, the hypoxia, and the inflammation-dependent bleomycin model all showed a similar dysregulation of Ang/Tie2 as in SSc, which did not apply for the non-inflammatory TSK1 model. CONCLUSION Peripheral microvasculopathy in SSc results from a complex dysregulation of angiogenic signalling networks including the VEGF and the Ang/Tie2 system. The profoundly disturbed Ang-/Tie-2 balance might represent an important target for vascular therapeutic approaches in SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Falk Moritz
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Zurich, Gloriastrasse 25, 8091, Zurich, Switzerland.,Department of Oncology, St. Georg Hospital, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Janine Schniering
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Zurich, Gloriastrasse 25, 8091, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Jörg H W Distler
- Department of Internal Medicine 3, University Hospital, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Renate E Gay
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Zurich, Gloriastrasse 25, 8091, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Steffen Gay
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Zurich, Gloriastrasse 25, 8091, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Oliver Distler
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Zurich, Gloriastrasse 25, 8091, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Britta Maurer
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Zurich, Gloriastrasse 25, 8091, Zurich, Switzerland.
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27
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Petersen F, Yue X, Riemekasten G, Yu X. Dysregulated homeostasis of target tissues or autoantigens - A novel principle in autoimmunity. Autoimmun Rev 2017; 16:602-611. [PMID: 28411168 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2017.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2017] [Accepted: 03/11/2017] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Monogenic autoimmune disorders provide a powerful tool for our understanding of the principles of autoimmunity due to the obvious impact of a single gene on the disease. So far, approximately 100 single gene defects causing murine monogenic autoimmune disorders have been reported and the functional characterization of these genes will provide significant progress in understanding the nature of autoimmunity. According to their function, genes leading to monogenic autoimmune disorders can be categorized into two groups. An expectable first group contains genes involved in the homeostasis of the immune system, including homeostasis of immune organs and immune cells. Intriguingly, the second group consists of genes functionally involved in the homeostasis of target tissues or autoantigens. According to our novel hypothesis, we propose that autoimmunity represents a consequence of a dysregulated homeostasis of the immune system and/or its targets including autoantigens and target tissues. In this review we refer to both aspects of homeostasis in autoimmunity with a highlight on the role of the homeostasis of target tissues and autoantigens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank Petersen
- Priority Area Asthma & Allergy, Research Center Borstel, Airway Research Center North (ARCN), Members of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), 23845 Borstel, Germany
| | - Xiaoyang Yue
- Priority Area Asthma & Allergy, Research Center Borstel, Airway Research Center North (ARCN), Members of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), 23845 Borstel, Germany
| | - Gabriela Riemekasten
- Priority Area Asthma & Allergy, Research Center Borstel, Airway Research Center North (ARCN), Members of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), 23845 Borstel, Germany; Department of Rheumatology, University of Lübeck, 23538 Lübeck, Germany
| | - Xinhua Yu
- Priority Area Asthma & Allergy, Research Center Borstel, Airway Research Center North (ARCN), Members of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), 23845 Borstel, Germany; Xiamen-Borstel Joint Laboratory of Autoimmunity, Medical College of Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China.
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28
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Cavanaugh NB, Qian L, Westergaard NM, Kutschke WJ, Born EJ, Turek JW. A Novel Murine Model of Marfan Syndrome Accelerates Aortopathy and Cardiomyopathy. Ann Thorac Surg 2017; 104:657-665. [PMID: 28347539 DOI: 10.1016/j.athoracsur.2016.10.077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2016] [Revised: 10/09/2016] [Accepted: 10/17/2016] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Marfan syndrome (MFS) represents a genetic disorder with variable phenotypic expression. The main cardiovascular sequelae of MFS include aortic aneurysm/dissection and cardiomyopathy. Although significant advances in the understanding of transforming growth factor beta signaling have led to promising therapeutic targets for the treatment of aortopathy, clinical studies have tempered this optimism. In particular, these studies suggest additional signaling pathways that play a significant role in disease progression. To date, studies aimed at elucidating molecular mechanisms involved in MFS-induced disease progression have been hampered by the lack of an accelerated disease model. METHODS Wild-type B6.129 mice and MFS Fbn1C1039G/+ mice underwent subcutaneous, cervical osmotic minipump installation with sodium chloride (wild-type mice, n = 39; MFS mice, n = 12) or angiotensin II, 4.5 mg/kg daily (wild-type mice, n = 11; MFS mice; n = 35) for as long as 28 days. Hemodynamic measurements were obtained throughout the experiment. Aortas and hearts were analyzed by transthoracic echocardiography and histopathology study. RESULTS This accelerated murine MFS model replicates increased mortality from MFS-related maladies (20.0%, 39.3%, and 52.9% at 10, 14, and 28 days, respectively). Aortic diameters in accelerated MFS mice were significantly enlarged at 10 days after minipump implantation and correlated with a higher degree of elastin fragmentation. Accelerated MFS mice also demonstrated dilated cardiomyopathy at 14 days, even without aortic insufficiency, suggesting an intrinsic etiology. CONCLUSIONS A novel in vivo model consisting of subcutaneously delivered angiotensin II in MFS mice reproducibly causes accelerated aortic aneurysm formation and cardiomyopathy. This model allows for better investigation of MFS sequelae by rapid experimental processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas B Cavanaugh
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Francois M. Abboud Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Lan Qian
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Francois M. Abboud Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Nicole M Westergaard
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Francois M. Abboud Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - William J Kutschke
- Department of Internal Medicine, Francois M. Abboud Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Ella J Born
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Francois M. Abboud Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Joseph W Turek
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Francois M. Abboud Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, Iowa.
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29
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Asano Y. Recent advances in animal models of systemic sclerosis. J Dermatol 2017; 43:19-28. [PMID: 26782003 DOI: 10.1111/1346-8138.13185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2015] [Accepted: 09/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a multisystem connective tissue disease characterized by the three cardinal pathological features, comprising aberrant immune activation, vasculopathy and tissue fibrosis, with unknown etiology. Although many inducible and genetic animal models mimicking the selected aspects of SSc have been well documented, the lack of models encompassing the full clinical manifestations hindered the development and preclinical testing of therapies against this disease. Under this situation, three new genetic animal models have recently been established, such as Fra2 transgenic mice, urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor deficient mice and Klf5(+/-) ;Fli1(+/-) mice, all of which recapitulate the pathological cascade of SSc. The former two murine models demonstrate endothelial cell apoptosis and capillary loss followed by tissue fibrosis, whereas the immune systems show no remarkable abnormality. Klf5(+/-) ;Fli1(+/-) mice develop immune activation, vasculopathy and tissue fibrosis in this sequence, eventually resulting in the development of dermal fibrosis, interstitial lung disease and pulmonary vascular involvement resembling those of SSc. Because Krueppel-like factor (KLF)5 and Friend leukemia integration 1 transcription factor (Fli1) are the transcription factors epigenetically suppressed in SSc dermal fibroblasts, the reproduction of SSc manifestations in Klf5(+/-) ;Fli1(+/-) mice supports the canonical idea that environmental influences play a central role in the development of SSc in genetically predisposed individuals. These new animal models offer important clues for the better understanding of the underlying molecular mechanisms of SSc pathology and the identification of potential molecular targets for the treatment of this incurable disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshihide Asano
- Department of Dermatology, University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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30
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Yoshizaki A. B lymphocytes in systemic sclerosis: Abnormalities and therapeutic targets. J Dermatol 2017; 43:39-45. [PMID: 26782005 DOI: 10.1111/1346-8138.13184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2015] [Accepted: 09/16/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a connective tissue disease characterized by excessive extracellular matrix deposition in the skin and visceral organs with an autoimmune background. Although the pathogenic relationship between systemic autoimmunity and the clinical manifestations remains unknown, SSc patients have immunological abnormalities including the production of disease-specific autoantibodies. Recent studies have demonstrated that B cells play a crucial role in systemic autoimmunity and disease expression via various functions in addition to autoantibody production. Recent studies show that B cells from SSc patients demonstrate an upregulated CD19 signaling pathway, which is a crucial regulator of B-cell activation, that induces SSc-specific autoantibody production in SSc. In addition, B cells from SSc patients exhibit an overexpression of CD19. Consistently, in CD19 transgenic mice, CD19 overexpression induces SSc-specific autoantibody production. SSc patients have also intrinsic B-cell abnormalities characterized by chronic hyperreactivity of memory B cells, possibly due to CD19 overexpression. Similarly, B cells from a tight-skin mouse, a genetic model of SSc, show augmented CD19 signaling and chronic hyperreactivity. Furthermore, in bleomycin-induced SSc model mice, endogenous ligands for Toll-like receptors, induced by bleomycin treatment, stimulate B cells to produce various fibrogenic cytokines and autoantibodies. Remarkably, CD19 loss results in inhibition of B-cell hyperreactivity and elimination of autoantibody production, which is associated with improvement of fibrosis. Taken together, altered B-cell function may result in tissue fibrosis, as well as autoimmunity, in SSc. Although further studies and greater understanding are needed, B cells are potential therapeutic target in SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayumi Yoshizaki
- Department of Dermatology, The University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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31
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Skin fibrosis: Models and mechanisms. Curr Res Transl Med 2016; 64:185-193. [PMID: 27939457 DOI: 10.1016/j.retram.2016.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2016] [Revised: 06/15/2016] [Accepted: 06/17/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Matrix synthesis, deposition and remodeling are complex biological processes that are critical in development, maintenance of tissue homeostasis and repair of injured tissues. Disturbances in the regulation of these processes can result in severe pathological conditions which are associated with tissue fibrosis as e.g. in Scleroderma, cutaneous Graft-versus-Host-Disease, excessive scarring after trauma or carcinogenesis. Therefore, finding efficient treatments to limit skin fibrosis is of major clinical importance. However the pathogenesis underlying the development of tissue fibrosis is still not entirely resolved. In recent years progress has been made unraveling the complex cellular and molecular mechanisms that determine fibrosis. Here we provide an overview of established and more recently developed mouse models that can be used to investigate the mechanisms of skin fibrosis and to test potential therapeutic approaches.
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32
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FBN1: The disease-causing gene for Marfan syndrome and other genetic disorders. Gene 2016; 591:279-291. [PMID: 27437668 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2016.07.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 207] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2016] [Revised: 07/11/2016] [Accepted: 07/14/2016] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
FBN1 encodes the gene for fibrillin-1, a structural macromolecule that polymerizes into microfibrils. Fibrillin microfibrils are morphologically distinctive fibrils, present in all connective tissues and assembled into tissue-specific architectural frameworks. FBN1 is the causative gene for Marfan syndrome, an inherited disorder of connective tissue whose major features include tall stature and arachnodactyly, ectopia lentis, and thoracic aortic aneurysm and dissection. More than one thousand individual mutations in FBN1 are associated with Marfan syndrome, making genotype-phenotype correlations difficult. Moreover, mutations in specific regions of FBN1 can result in the opposite features of short stature and brachydactyly characteristic of Weill-Marchesani syndrome and other acromelic dysplasias. How can mutations in one molecule result in disparate clinical syndromes? Current concepts of the fibrillinopathies require an appreciation of tissue-specific fibrillin microfibril microenvironments and the collaborative relationship between the structures of fibrillin microfibril networks and biological functions such as regulation of growth factor signaling.
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Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a connective tissue disease of unknown etiology that is characterized by fibrosis of the skin and several internal organs, vasculopathy, inflammation and autoimmunity. Animal models have improved our understanding of the pathogenesis of SSc. Many inducible and genetic animal models of SSc have been developed and characterized in the last years. All of these models have different strengths and limitations and mimic different aspects of the pathogenesis of SSc. The purpose of this review is to summarize the characteristics of the various animal models of SSc and to provide an outline of how to use these models to study certain aspects in the pathogenesis of SSc and to test the effects of potential therapeutic approaches.
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34
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Bhattacharyya S, Wang W, Morales-Nebreda L, Feng G, Wu M, Zhou X, Lafyatis R, Lee J, Hinchcliff M, Feghali-Bostwick C, Lakota K, Budinger GRS, Raparia K, Tamaki Z, Varga J. Tenascin-C drives persistence of organ fibrosis. Nat Commun 2016; 7:11703. [PMID: 27256716 PMCID: PMC4895803 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms11703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 190] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2016] [Accepted: 04/20/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The factors responsible for maintaining persistent organ fibrosis in systemic sclerosis (SSc) are not known but emerging evidence implicates toll-like receptors (TLRs) in the pathogenesis of SSc. Here we show the expression, mechanism of action and pathogenic role of endogenous TLR activators in skin from patients with SSc, skin fibroblasts, and in mouse models of organ fibrosis. Levels of tenascin-C are elevated in SSc skin biopsy samples, and serum and SSc fibroblasts, and in fibrotic skin tissues from mice. Exogenous tenascin-C stimulates collagen gene expression and myofibroblast transformation via TLR4 signalling. Mice lacking tenascin-C show attenuation of skin and lung fibrosis, and accelerated fibrosis resolution. These results identify tenascin-C as an endogenous danger signal that is upregulated in SSc and drives TLR4-dependent fibroblast activation, and by its persistence impedes fibrosis resolution. Disrupting this fibrosis amplification loop might be a viable strategy for the treatment of SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swati Bhattacharyya
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois 60611, USA
| | - Wenxia Wang
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois 60611, USA
| | | | - Gang Feng
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois 60611, USA
| | - Minghua Wu
- University of Texas Medical School at Houston, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Xiaodong Zhou
- University of Texas Medical School at Houston, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Robert Lafyatis
- Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts 02215, USA
| | - Jungwha Lee
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois 60611, USA
| | - Monique Hinchcliff
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois 60611, USA
| | | | - Katja Lakota
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois 60611, USA
| | - G. R. Scott Budinger
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois 60611, USA
| | - Kirtee Raparia
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois 60611, USA
| | - Zenshiro Tamaki
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois 60611, USA
| | - John Varga
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois 60611, USA
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35
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New insights into the structure, assembly and biological roles of 10–12 nm connective tissue microfibrils from fibrillin-1 studies. Biochem J 2016; 473:827-38. [DOI: 10.1042/bj20151108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2015] [Accepted: 01/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The 10–12 nm diameter microfibrils of the extracellular matrix (ECM) impart both structural and regulatory properties to load-bearing connective tissues. The main protein component is the calcium-dependent glycoprotein fibrillin, which assembles into microfibrils at the cell surface in a highly regulated process involving specific proteolysis, multimerization and glycosaminoglycan interactions. In higher metazoans, microfibrils act as a framework for elastin deposition and modification, resulting in the formation of elastic fibres, but they can also occur in elastin-free tissues where they perform structural roles. Fibrillin microfibrils are further engaged in a number of cell matrix interactions such as with integrins, bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) and the large latent complex of transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ). Fibrillin-1 (FBN1) mutations are associated with a range of heritable connective disorders, including Marfan syndrome (MFS) and the acromelic dysplasias, suggesting that the roles of 10–12 nm diameter microfibrils are pleiotropic. In recent years the use of molecular, cellular and whole-organism studies has revealed that the microfibril is not just a structural component of the ECM, but through its network of cell and matrix interactions it can exert profound regulatory effects on cell function. In this review we assess what is known about the molecular properties of fibrillin that enable it to assemble into the 10–12 nm diameter microfibril and perform such diverse roles.
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36
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Schiavinato A, Keene DR, Wohl AP, Corallo D, Colombatti A, Wagener R, Paulsson M, Bonaldo P, Sengle G. Targeting of EMILIN-1 and EMILIN-2 to Fibrillin Microfibrils Facilitates their Incorporation into the Extracellular Matrix. J Invest Dermatol 2016; 136:1150-1160. [PMID: 26945878 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2016.02.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2015] [Revised: 02/03/2016] [Accepted: 02/18/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Elastin microfibril interface-located proteins (EMILINs) 1 and 2 belong to a family of structurally related extracellular glycoproteins with unique functions in the extracellular space, such as modulation of pro-transforming growth factor-β processing, activation of the extrinsic apoptotic pathway, and regulation of Hedgehog and Wnt ligand bioavailability. However, little is known about how EMILINs may exert their extracellular functions. We therefore investigated the spatiotemporal localization and deposition of EMILIN-1 and -2 within the extracellular space. By using immunoelectron and immunofluorescence microscopy together with biochemical extraction, we showed that EMILIN-1 and -2 are targeted to fibrillin microfibrils in the skin. In addition, during skin wound healing and in vitro matrix fiber assembly by primary dermal fibroblasts, EMILIN-1 and -2 are deposited on and coregulated with fibrillin. Analysis of wounds and mouse embryonic fibroblast cultures showed that EMILIN-1 and -2 network formation also requires the presence of fibronectin. Disruption of microfibrils in fibrillin-1-deficient mice leads to fragmentation of the EMILIN-1 and -2 networks, suggesting an involvement of EMILINs in fibrillin-related skin disorders. The addition of EMILINs to the ligand repertoire of fibrillin strengthens the concept of fibrillin microfibrils as extracellular scaffolds integrating cellular force transmission and growth factor bioactivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alvise Schiavinato
- Center for Biochemistry, Medical Faculty, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | | | - Alexander P Wohl
- Center for Biochemistry, Medical Faculty, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Diana Corallo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Alfonso Colombatti
- Experimental Oncology 2, CRO, IRCCS, National Cancer Institute, Aviano, PN, Italy
| | - Raimund Wagener
- Center for Biochemistry, Medical Faculty, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Mats Paulsson
- Center for Biochemistry, Medical Faculty, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Cluster of Excellence Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Paolo Bonaldo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Gerhard Sengle
- Center for Biochemistry, Medical Faculty, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.
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Tsujino K, Sheppard D. Critical Appraisal of the Utility and Limitations of Animal Models of Scleroderma. Curr Rheumatol Rep 2015; 18:4. [DOI: 10.1007/s11926-015-0553-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
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Fibrillin-containing microfibrils are key signal relay stations for cell function. J Cell Commun Signal 2015; 9:309-25. [PMID: 26449569 DOI: 10.1007/s12079-015-0307-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2015] [Accepted: 09/29/2015] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibrillins constitute the backbone of microfibrils in the extracellular matrix of elastic and non-elastic tissues. Mutations in fibrillins are associated with a wide range of connective tissue disorders, the most common is Marfan syndrome. Microfibrils are on one hand important for structural stability in some tissues. On the other hand, microfibrils are increasingly recognized as critical mediators and drivers of cellular signaling. This review focuses on the signaling mechanisms initiated by fibrillins and microfibrils, which are often dysregulated in fibrillin-associated disorders. Fibrillins regulate the storage and bioavailability of growth factors of the TGF-β superfamily. Cells sense microfibrils through integrins and other receptors. Fibrillins potently regulate pathways of the immune response, inflammation and tissue homeostasis. Emerging evidence show the involvement of microRNAs in disorders caused by fibrillin deficiency. A thorough understanding of fibrillin-mediated cell signaling pathways will provide important new leads for therapeutic approaches of the underlying disorders.
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Asano Y. Double heterozygous mice for Klf5 and Fli1 genes: a new animal model of systemic sclerosis recapitulating its three cardinal pathological features. Med Mol Morphol 2015; 48:123-8. [DOI: 10.1007/s00795-015-0107-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2015] [Accepted: 05/12/2015] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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Barczyk M, Bolstad AI, Gullberg D. Role of integrins in the periodontal ligament: organizers and facilitators. Periodontol 2000 2015; 63:29-47. [PMID: 23931052 PMCID: PMC3791550 DOI: 10.1111/prd.12027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/01/2012] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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Hetzer R, Siegel G, Delmo Walter EM. Cardiomyopathy in Marfan syndrome. Eur J Cardiothorac Surg 2015; 49:561-7; discussion 567-8. [PMID: 25755184 DOI: 10.1093/ejcts/ezv073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2014] [Accepted: 01/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This report aims to evaluate the existence of primary and secondary cardiomyopathy in patients with Marfan syndrome (MFS) who underwent surgical management for primary cardiovascular sequelae of this genetic disorder. Likewise, we aim to determine whether the myocardium in MFS is susceptible to ischaemia independent of myocardial protection used during surgery. METHODS Between April 1986 and May 2012, 421 patients with MFS were surgically treated for cardiovascular manifestations. Among them, 47 (mean age: 39.45 ± 12.64, median: 36, range: 19-66, years) eventually were surgically treated for cardiomyopathy. They were grouped into A: patients who subsequently developed ischaemic cardiomyopathy and eventually underwent coronary revascularization for coronary artery disease (n = 11); B: patients who subsequently developed end-stage cardiomyopathy for which a mechanical circulatory support device was implanted to support the failing heart (n = 13) and C: patients who subsequently developed end-stage cardiomyopathy (n = 23), among whom 21 underwent primary heart transplantation, while 2 patients are still waiting for donor hearts. RESULTS Retrospective analysis of the medical records of 47 patients revealed the following: In Group A, 3 (27.2%) patients had already existing ischaemic cardiomyopathy before the first various cardiovascular surgeries, while ischaemic cardiomyopathy in the other 8 (72.7%) developed postoperatively. The interval between previous surgery and development of cardiomyopathy was a mean of 8.0 ± 07 years. In Group B, 5 (38.4%) had existing primary cardiomyopathy prior to surgery, while 8 (61.5%) developed end-stage cardiomyopathy postoperatively. The interval between previous surgery and development of cardiomyopathy was a mean of 9.0 ± 4 months. In Group C, 5 (21.7%) had been diagnosed with cardiomyopathy prior to the cardiovascular surgery, while 18 (78.2%) developed end-stage cardiomyopathy postoperatively. The mean interval between previous surgery and development of cardiomyopathy was 3 ± 0.9 years. At a mean follow-up of 9.4 ± 1.37 years, the overall survival rate is 51.8%. Categorized based on the surgical treatment done for cardiomyopathy, survival rates of 54.5% (the mean follow-up of 9.35 ± 1.8 years), 40.1% (mean follow-up of 7.01 ± 2.8 years) and 70% (mean follow-up of 10.5 ± 2.0 years) were seen in Groups A, B and C, respectively. There is no significant difference in survival rates (P = 0.56) among groups. Likewise, the type of myocardial protection and duration of ischaemic times were not significant (P > 0.78) to the development of cardiomyopathy. CONCLUSIONS Our finding supports the existence of cardiomyopathy in a subset of patients with MFS. Marfan cardiomyopathy appears to be independent of the type of myocardial protection and duration of ischaemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roland Hetzer
- Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, Deutsches Herzzentrum Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Günter Siegel
- Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, Deutsches Herzzentrum Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Eva Maria Delmo Walter
- Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, Deutsches Herzzentrum Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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Yoshizaki A, Sato S. Abnormal B lymphocyte activation and function in systemic sclerosis. Ann Dermatol 2015; 27:1-9. [PMID: 25673924 PMCID: PMC4323585 DOI: 10.5021/ad.2015.27.1.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2014] [Accepted: 11/12/2014] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is characterized by tissue fibrosis and autoimmunity. Although the pathogenic relationship between autoimmunity and clinical manifestations of SSc remains unknown, SSc patients display abnormal immune responses including the production of disease-specific autoantibodies. Previous studies have demonstrated that B cells play a critical role in systemic autoimmunity and disease expression through various functions such as induction of the activation of other immune cells in addition to autoantibody production. CD19 is a crucial regulator of B cell activation. Recent studies demonstrated that B cells from SSc patients showed an up-regulated CD19 signaling pathway that induced SSc-specific autoantibody production in SSc mouse models. CD19 transgenic mice lost tolerance for autoantigen and generated autoantibodies spontaneously. B cells from SSc patients exhibited an overexpression of CD19 that induced SSc-specific autoantibody production in transgenic mice. Moreover, SSc patients displayed intrinsic B cell abnormalities characterized by chronic hyper-reactivity of memory B cells, which was possibly due to CD19 overexpression. Similarly, B cells from a tight-skin mouse, a genetic model of SSc, showed augmented CD19 signaling. In bleomycin-induced SSc mouse models, endogenous ligands for toll-like receptor 4 induced by bleomycin stimulated B cells to produce various fibrogenic cytokines and autoantibodies. Remarkably, the loss of CD19 resulted in the inhibition of B cell hyper-reactivity and autoantibody production, which are associated with improvements in fibrosis and a parallel decrease in fibrogenic cytokine production by B cells. Taken together, the findings suggest that altered B cell function may result in tissue fibrosis as well as autoimmunity in SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayumi Yoshizaki
- Department of Dermatology, University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shinichi Sato
- Department of Dermatology, University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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McQueen FM, Solanki K. Rituximab in diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis: should we be using it today? Rheumatology (Oxford) 2015; 54:757-67. [DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keu463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2014] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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The Tsk2/+ mouse fibrotic phenotype is due to a gain-of-function mutation in the PIIINP segment of the Col3a1 gene. J Invest Dermatol 2014; 135:718-27. [PMID: 25330296 PMCID: PMC4324084 DOI: 10.1038/jid.2014.455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2014] [Revised: 09/09/2014] [Accepted: 09/22/2014] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a polygenic, autoimmune disorder of unknown etiology, characterized by the excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins, vascular alterations, and autoantibodies. The tight skin (Tsk)2/+ mouse model of SSc demonstrates signs similar to SSc including tight skin and excessive deposition of dermal ECM proteins. By linkage analysis, we mapped the Tsk2 gene mutation to <3 megabases on chromosome 1. We performed both RNA sequencing of skin transcripts and genome capture DNA sequencing of the region spanning this interval in Tsk2/+ and wild-type littermates. A missense point mutation in the procollagen III amino terminal propeptide segment (PIIINP) of collagen, type III, alpha 1 (Col3a1) was found to be the best candidate for Tsk2; hence, both in vivo and in vitro genetic complementation tests were used to prove that this Col3a1 mutation is the Tsk2 gene. All previously documented mutations in the human Col3a1 gene are associated with the Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, a connective tissue disorder that leads to a defect in type III collagen synthesis. To our knowledge, the Tsk2 point mutation is the first documented gain-of-function mutation associated with Col3a1, which leads instead to fibrosis. This discovery provides insight into the mechanism of skin fibrosis manifested by Tsk2/+ mice.
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Tight skin 2 mice exhibit a novel time line of events leading to increased extracellular matrix deposition and dermal fibrosis. Matrix Biol 2014; 38:91-100. [DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2014.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2013] [Revised: 04/30/2014] [Accepted: 05/02/2014] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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Molecular and cellular basis of scleroderma. J Mol Med (Berl) 2014; 92:913-24. [DOI: 10.1007/s00109-014-1190-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2014] [Revised: 06/02/2014] [Accepted: 06/05/2014] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
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Abstract
Without doubt, animal models have provided significant insights into our understanding of the rheumatological diseases; however, no model has accurately replicated all aspects of any autoimmune disease. Recent years have seen a plethora of knockouts and transgenics that have contributed to our knowledge of the initiating events of systemic sclerosis, an autoimmune disease. In this review, the focus is on models of systemic sclerosis and how they have progressed our understanding of fibrosis and vasculopathy, and whether they are relevant to the pathogenesis of systemic sclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carol M Artlett
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Lourenço JD, Neves LP, Olivo CR, Duran A, Almeida FM, Arantes PMM, Prado CM, Leick EA, Tanaka AS, Martins MA, Sasaki SD, Lopes FDTQS. A treatment with a protease inhibitor recombinant from the cattle tick (Rhipicephalus Boophilus microplus) ameliorates emphysema in mice. PLoS One 2014; 9:e98216. [PMID: 24886716 PMCID: PMC4041648 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0098216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2013] [Accepted: 04/29/2014] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Aims To determine whether a serine protease inhibitor treatment can prevent or minimize emphysema in mice. Methods C57BL/6 mice were subjected to porcine pancreatic elastase (PPE) nasal instillation to induce emphysema and were treated with a serine protease inhibitor (rBmTI-A) before (Protocol 1) and after (Protocol 2) emphysema development. In both protocols, we evaluated lung function to evaluate the airway resistance (Raw), tissue damping (Gtis) and tissue elastance (Htis). The inflammatory profile was analyzed in the bronchoalveolar lavage (BALF) and through the use of morphometry; we measured the mean linear intercept (Lm) (to verify alveolar enlargement), the volume proportion of collagen and elastic fibers, and the numbers of macrophages and metalloprotease 12 (MMP-12) positive cells in the parenchyma. We showed that at both time points, even after the emphysema was established, the rBmTI-A treatment was sufficient to reverse the loss of elastic recoil measured by Htis, the alveolar enlargement and the increase in the total number of cells in the BALF, with a primary decrease in the number of macrophages. Although, the treatment did not control the increase in macrophages in the lung parenchyma, it was sufficient to decrease the number of positive cells for MMP-12 and reduce the volume of collagen fibers, which was increased in PPE groups. These findings attest to the importance of MMP-12 in PPE-induced emphysema and suggest that this metalloprotease could be an effective therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Luana P. Neves
- Centro de Ciências Naturais e Humanas, UFABC, Santo André, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Clarice R. Olivo
- Department of Medicine, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Adriana Duran
- Centro de Ciências Naturais e Humanas, UFABC, Santo André, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | - Carla M. Prado
- Biological Science Department, UNIFESP, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Sergio D. Sasaki
- Centro de Ciências Naturais e Humanas, UFABC, Santo André, Sao Paulo, Brazil
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Collagen content in skin and internal organs of the tight skin mouse: an animal model of scleroderma. Biochem Res Int 2013; 2013:436053. [PMID: 24260716 PMCID: PMC3821901 DOI: 10.1155/2013/436053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2013] [Accepted: 09/18/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The Tight Skin mouse is a genetically induced animal model of tissue fibrosis caused by a large in-frame mutation in the gene encoding fibrillin-1 (Fbn-1). We examined the influence of gender on the collagen content of tissues in C57BL/6J wild type (+/+) and mutant Tight Skin (Tsk/+) mice employing hydroxyproline assays. Tissue sections were stained with Masson's trichrome to identify collagen in situ. Adult Tsk/+ mice skin contains ~15% more collagen, on average, than skin from +/+ mice of the same gender. The heart of Tsk/+ males had significantly more collagen than that of +/+ males. No significant gender differences were found in lungs and kidney collagen content. Overall, the collagen content of Tsk/+ males and +/+ males was higher than that of their Tsk/+ and +/+ female counterparts, respectively. Our data confirm increased deposition of collagen in skin and hearts of Tsk/+ mice; however, the effects of the Tsk mutation on collagen content are both tissue specific and gender specific. These results indicate that comparative studies of collagen content between normal and Tsk/+ mice skin and internal organs must take into account gender differences caused by expression of the androgen receptor.
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