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Ogurlu B, Hamelink TL, Van Tricht IM, Leuvenink HGD, De Borst MH, Moers C, Pool MBF. Utilizing pathophysiological concepts of ischemia-reperfusion injury to design renoprotective strategies and therapeutic interventions for normothermic ex vivo kidney perfusion. Am J Transplant 2024; 24:1110-1126. [PMID: 38184242 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajt.2024.01.001] [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: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/01/2024] [Indexed: 01/08/2024]
Abstract
Normothermic machine perfusion (NMP) has emerged as a promising tool for the preservation, viability assessment, and repair of deceased-donor kidneys prior to transplantation. These kidneys inevitably experience a period of ischemia during donation, which leads to ischemia-reperfusion injury when NMP is subsequently commenced. Ischemia-reperfusion injury has a major impact on the renal vasculature, metabolism, oxygenation, electrolyte balance, and acid-base homeostasis. With an increased understanding of the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms, renoprotective strategies and therapeutic interventions can be devised to minimize additional injury during normothermic reperfusion, ensure the safe implementation of NMP, and improve kidney quality. This review discusses the pathophysiological alterations in the vasculature, metabolism, oxygenation, electrolyte balance, and acid-base homeostasis of deceased-donor kidneys and delineates renoprotective strategies and therapeutic interventions to mitigate renal injury and improve kidney quality during NMP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baran Ogurlu
- Department of Surgery - Organ Donation and Transplantation, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands.
| | - Tim L Hamelink
- Department of Surgery - Organ Donation and Transplantation, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Isa M Van Tricht
- Department of Surgery - Organ Donation and Transplantation, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Henri G D Leuvenink
- Department of Surgery - Organ Donation and Transplantation, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Martin H De Borst
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Cyril Moers
- Department of Surgery - Organ Donation and Transplantation, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Merel B F Pool
- Department of Surgery - Organ Donation and Transplantation, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
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2
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Chrysopoulou M, Rinschen MM. Metabolic Rewiring and Communication: An Integrative View of Kidney Proximal Tubule Function. Annu Rev Physiol 2024; 86:405-427. [PMID: 38012048 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-physiol-042222-024724] [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] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
The kidney proximal tubule is a key organ for human metabolism. The kidney responds to stress with altered metabolite transformation and perturbed metabolic pathways, an ultimate cause for kidney disease. Here, we review the proximal tubule's metabolic function through an integrative view of transport, metabolism, and function, and embed it in the context of metabolome-wide data-driven research. Function (filtration, transport, secretion, and reabsorption), metabolite transformation, and metabolite signaling determine kidney metabolic rewiring in disease. Energy metabolism and substrates for key metabolic pathways are orchestrated by metabolite sensors. Given the importance of renal function for the inner milieu, we also review metabolic communication routes with other organs. Exciting research opportunities exist to understand metabolic perturbation of kidney and proximal tubule function, for example, in hypertension-associated kidney disease. We argue that, based on the integrative view outlined here, kidney diseases without genetic cause should be approached scientifically as metabolic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Markus M Rinschen
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark;
- III. Department of Medicine and Hamburg Center for Kidney Health, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Aarhus Institute of Advanced Studies, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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3
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van Leeuwen LL, Ruigrok MJR, Kessler BM, Leuvenink HGD, Olinga P. Targeted delivery of galunisertib using machine perfusion reduces fibrogenesis in an integrated ex vivo renal transplant and fibrogenesis model. Br J Pharmacol 2024; 181:464-479. [PMID: 37596999 DOI: 10.1111/bph.16220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Fibrosis in kidney allografts is a major post-transplant complication that contributes to graft failure. Lately, multiple potent inhibitors of fibrosis-related pathways have been developed such as galunisertib, an inhibitor of the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β/TGFβ1) signalling pathway. This drug, however, poses risks for adverse effects when administered systemically. Therefore, we devised a new repurposing strategy in which galunisertib is administered ex vivo. We combined machine perfusion and tissue slices to explore the antifibrotic effects of galunisertib in renal grafts. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Porcine kidneys were subjected to 30 min of warm ischaemia, 24 h of oxygenated hypothermic machine perfusion and 6 h of normothermic machine perfusion with various treatments (i.e. untreated control, TGFβ1, galunisertib or TGFβ1 + galunisertib; n = 8 kidneys per group). To determine whether effects persisted upon ceasing treatment, kidney slices were prepared from respective kidneys and incubated for 48 h. KEY RESULTS Galunisertib treatment improved general viability without negatively affecting renal function or elevating levels of injury markers or by-products of oxidative stress during perfusion. Galunisertib also reduced inflammation and, more importantly, reduced the onset of fibrosis after 48 h of incubation. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Our findings demonstrate the value of using machine perfusion for administering antifibrotic drugs such as galunisertib, proving it to be an effective example of repurposing.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Leonie van Leeuwen
- Department of Surgery, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, Centre for Medicines Discovery, Target Discovery Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Recanati/Miller Transplantation Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York City, New York, USA
| | - Mitchel J R Ruigrok
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy, Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Benedikt M Kessler
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, Centre for Medicines Discovery, Target Discovery Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Henri G D Leuvenink
- Department of Surgery, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Peter Olinga
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy, Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
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4
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Kresse JC, Gregersen E, Atay JCL, Eijken M, Nørregaard R. Does the route matter? A preclinical review of mesenchymal stromal cell delivery to the kidney. APMIS 2023; 131:687-697. [PMID: 37750005 DOI: 10.1111/apm.13352] [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: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
Mesenchymal stromal/stem cell (MSC) therapy has been thoroughly tested in preclinical animal models and holds great promise for the treatment of kidney diseases. It is becoming increasingly evident that the efficacy of MSC therapy is dependent on several factors including dosage, the tissue source of MSCs, the route of delivery and timing of administration. In a time where MSC therapy is moving from preclinical research to clinically therapeutic use, the importance of choice of delivery method, modality, and administration route increases. In this review, we provide an overview of the different MSC delivery routes used in preclinical kidney disease models, highlight the recent advances in the field, and summarize studies comparing delivery routes of MSCs to the kidney.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Emil Gregersen
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | - Marco Eijken
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Renal Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Rikke Nørregaard
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Renal Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
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5
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Teegala LR, Gudneppanavar R, Sabu Kattuman EE, Snyderman M, Thanusha AV, Katari V, Thodeti CK, Paruchuri S. Prostaglandin E 2 attenuates lung fibroblast differentiation via inactivation of yes-associated protein signaling. FASEB J 2023; 37:e23199. [PMID: 37732601 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202300745rr] [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: 04/15/2023] [Revised: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2 ) has been implicated in counteracting fibroblast differentiation by TGFβ1 during pulmonary fibrosis. However, the precise mechanism is not well understood. We show here that PGE2 via EP2 R and EP4 R inhibits the expression of mechanosensory molecules Lysyl Oxidase Like 2 (LOXL2), myocardin-related transcription factor A (MRTF-A), ECM proteins, plasminogen activation inhibitor 1 (PAI-1), fibronectin (FN), α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), and redox sensor (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase 4 (NOX4)) required for TGFβ1-mediated fibroblast differentiation. We further demonstrate that PGE2 inhibits fibrotic signaling via Yes-associated protein (YAP) but does so independently from its actions on SMAD phosphorylation and conserved cylindromatosis (CYLD; deubiquitinase) expression. Mechanistically, PGE2 phosphorylates/inactivates YAP downstream of EP2 R/Gαs and restrains its translocation to the nucleus, thus inhibiting its interaction with TEA domain family members (TEADs) and transcription of fibrotic genes. Importantly, pharmacological or siRNA-mediated inhibition of YAP significantly downregulates TGFβ1-mediated fibrotic gene expression and myofibroblast formation. Notably, YAP expression is upregulated in the lungs of D. farinae-treated wild type (WT) mice relative to saline-treated WT mice. Our results unravel a unique role for PGE2 -YAP interactions in fibroblast differentiation, and that PGE2 /YAP inhibition can be used as a novel therapeutic target in the treatment of pathological conditions associated with myofibroblasts like asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lakshminarayan Reddy Teegala
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, The University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences, Ohio, Toledo, USA
| | - Ravindra Gudneppanavar
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, The University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences, Ohio, Toledo, USA
| | - Emma Elizabeth Sabu Kattuman
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, The University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences, Ohio, Toledo, USA
| | | | - Arani Varamuniprasad Thanusha
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, The University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences, Ohio, Toledo, USA
| | - Venkatesh Katari
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, The University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences, Ohio, Toledo, USA
| | - Charles K Thodeti
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, The University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences, Ohio, Toledo, USA
| | - Sailaja Paruchuri
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, The University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences, Ohio, Toledo, USA
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Nørregaard R, Mutsaers HAM, Frøkiær J, Kwon TH. Obstructive nephropathy and molecular pathophysiology of renal interstitial fibrosis. Physiol Rev 2023; 103:2827-2872. [PMID: 37440209 PMCID: PMC10642920 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00027.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The kidneys play a key role in maintaining total body homeostasis. The complexity of this task is reflected in the unique architecture of the organ. Ureteral obstruction greatly affects renal physiology by altering hemodynamics, changing glomerular filtration and renal metabolism, and inducing architectural malformations of the kidney parenchyma, most importantly renal fibrosis. Persisting pathological changes lead to chronic kidney disease, which currently affects ∼10% of the global population and is one of the major causes of death worldwide. Studies on the consequences of ureteral obstruction date back to the 1800s. Even today, experimental unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) remains the standard model for tubulointerstitial fibrosis. However, the model has certain limitations when it comes to studying tubular injury and repair, as well as a limited potential for human translation. Nevertheless, ureteral obstruction has provided the scientific community with a wealth of knowledge on renal (patho)physiology. With the introduction of advanced omics techniques, the classical UUO model has remained relevant to this day and has been instrumental in understanding renal fibrosis at the molecular, genomic, and cellular levels. This review details key concepts and recent advances in the understanding of obstructive nephropathy, highlighting the pathophysiological hallmarks responsible for the functional and architectural changes induced by ureteral obstruction, with a special emphasis on renal fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rikke Nørregaard
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Renal Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | - Jørgen Frøkiær
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Tae-Hwan Kwon
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Taegu, Korea
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7
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Huang HJ, Lee YH, Sung LC, Chen YJ, Chiu YJ, Chiu HW, Zheng CM. Drug repurposing screens to identify potential drugs for chronic kidney disease by targeting prostaglandin E2 receptor. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2023; 21:3490-3502. [PMID: 37484490 PMCID: PMC10362296 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2023.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 07/02/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Renal inflammation and fibrosis are significantly correlated with the deterioration of kidney function and result in chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, current therapies only delay disease progression and have limited treatment effects. Hence, the development of innovative therapeutic approaches to mitigate the progression of CKD has become an attractive issue. To date, the incidence of CKD is still increasing, and the biomarkers of the pathophysiologic processes of CKD are not clear. Therefore, the identification of novel therapeutic targets associated with the progression of CKD is an attractive issue. It is a critical necessity to discover new therapeutics as nephroprotective strategies to stop CKD progression. In this research, we focus on targeting a prostaglandin E2 receptor (EP2) as a nephroprotective strategy for the development of additional anti-inflammatory or antifibrotic strategies for CKD. The in silico study identified that ritodrine, dofetilide, dobutamine, and citalopram are highly related to EP2 from the results of chemical database virtual screening. Furthermore, we found that the above four candidate drugs increased the activation of autophagy in human kidney cells, which also reduced the expression level of fibrosis and NLRP3 inflammasome activation. It is hoped that these findings of the four candidates with anti-NLRP3 inflammasome activation and antifibrotic effects will lead to the development of novel therapies for patients with CKD in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hung-Jin Huang
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Hsuan Lee
- Department of Cosmeceutics, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Li-Chin Sung
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City, Taiwan
- Taipei Heart Institute, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- TMU Research Center of Urology and Kidney, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Jie Chen
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Jhe Chiu
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hui-Wen Chiu
- TMU Research Center of Urology and Kidney, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Research, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City, Taiwan
- Ph.D. Program in Drug Discovery and Development Industry, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University
| | - Cai-Mei Zheng
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- TMU Research Center of Urology and Kidney, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taiwan
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8
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Jensen MS, de Araujo IBBA, Mutsaers HAM, Nørregaard R. Transcutaneous measurement of renal function in two rodent models of obstructive nephropathy. BMC Res Notes 2023; 16:119. [PMID: 37365638 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-023-06387-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is a key indicator of renal function. In both clinical practice and pre-clinical research, serum levels of endogenous filtration markers, such as creatinine, are often used to estimate GFR. However, these markers often do not reflect minor changes in renal function. In this study, we therefore set out to evaluate the applicability of transcutaneous GFR (tGFR) measurements to monitor the changes in renal function, as compared to plasma creatinine (pCreatinine), in two models of obstructive nephropathy, namely unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) or bilateral ureteral obstruction followed by release (BUO-R) in male Wistar rats. RESULTS UUO animals showed a significant reduction in tGFR compared to baseline; whereas pCreatinine levels were not significantly changed. In BUO animals, tGFR drops 24 h post BUO and remains lower upon release of the obstruction until day 11. Concomitantly, pCreatinine levels were also increased 24 h after obstruction and 24 h post release, however after 4 days, pCreatinine returned to baseline levels. In conclusion, this study revealed that the tGFR method is superior at detecting minor changes in renal function as compared to pCreatinine measurements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Schou Jensen
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 11, Aarhus N, DK-8200, Denmark
| | | | - Henricus A M Mutsaers
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 11, Aarhus N, DK-8200, Denmark
| | - Rikke Nørregaard
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 11, Aarhus N, DK-8200, Denmark.
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9
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Mutsaers HAM, Jensen MS, Kresse JC, Tingskov SJ, Madsen MG, Nørregaard R. An animal-free preclinical drug screening platform based on human precision-cut kidney slices. BMC Res Notes 2023; 16:39. [PMID: 36941637 PMCID: PMC10029185 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-023-06303-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Renal fibrosis is one of the main pathophysiological processes underlying the progression of chronic kidney disease and kidney allograft failure. In the past decades, overwhelming efforts have been undertaken to find druggable targets for the treatment of renal fibrosis, mainly using cell- and animal models. However, the latter often do not adequately reflect human pathogenesis, obtained results differ per strain within a given species, and the models are associated with considerable discomfort for the animals. Therefore, the objective of this study is to implement the 3Rs in renal fibrosis research by establishing an animal-free drug screening platform for renal fibrosis based on human precision-cut kidney slices (PCKS) and by limiting the use of reagents that are associated with significant animal welfare concerns. RESULTS Using Western blotting and gene expression arrays, we show that transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) induced fibrosis in human PCKS. In addition, our results demonstrated that butaprost, SC-19220 and tamoxifen - all putative anti-fibrotic compounds - altered TGF-β-induced pro-fibrotic gene expression in human PCKS. Moreover, we observed that all compounds modulated fairly distinct sets of genes, however they all impacted TGF-β/SMAD signaling. In conclusion, this study revealed that it is feasible to use an animal-free approach to test drug efficacy and elucidate mechanisms of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henricus A M Mutsaers
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, Aarhus N, 8200, Denmark.
| | - Michael Schou Jensen
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, Aarhus N, 8200, Denmark
| | - Jean-Claude Kresse
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, Aarhus N, 8200, Denmark
| | - Stine Julie Tingskov
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, Aarhus N, 8200, Denmark
| | - Mia Gebauer Madsen
- Department of Urology, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, Aarhus N, 8200, Denmark
| | - Rikke Nørregaard
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, Aarhus N, 8200, Denmark
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10
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Tofteng SS, Nilsson L, Mogensen AK, Nørregaard R, Nüsing R, Diatchikhine M, Lund L, Bistrup C, Jensen BL, Madsen K. Increased COX-2 after ureter obstruction attenuates fibrosis and is associated with EP 2 receptor upregulation in mouse and human kidney. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2022; 235:e13828. [PMID: 35543087 PMCID: PMC9542224 DOI: 10.1111/apha.13828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
AIM Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) activity protects against oxidative stress and apoptosis early in experimental kidney injury. The present study was designed to test the hypothesis that COX-2 activity attenuates fibrosis and preserves microvasculature in injured kidney. The murine unilateral ureteral-obstruction (UUO) model of kidney fibrosis was employed and compared with human nephrectomy tissue with and without chronic hydronephrosis. METHODS Fibrosis and angiogenic markers were quantified in kidney tissue from wild-type and COX-2-/- mice subjected to UUO for 7 days and in human kidney tissue. COX-enzymes, prostaglandin (PG) synthases, PG receptors, PGE2 , and thromboxane were determined in human tissue. RESULTS COX-2 immunosignal was observed in interstitial fibroblasts at baseline and after UUO. Fibronectin, collagen I, III, alpha-smooth muscle actin, and fibroblast specific protein-1 mRNAs increased significantly more after UUO in COX-2-/- vs wild-type mice. In vitro, fibroblasts from COX-2-/- kidneys showed higher matrix synthesis. Compared to control, human hydronephrotic kidneys showed (i) fibrosis, (ii) no significant changes in COX-2, COX-1, PGE2 -, and prostacyclin synthases, and prostacyclin and thromboxane receptor mRNAs, (iii) increased mRNA and protein of PGE2 -EP2 receptor level but unchanged PGE2 tissue concentration, and (iv) two- to threefold increased thromboxane synthase mRNA and protein levels, and increased thromboxane B2 tissue concentration in cortex and outer medulla. CONCLUSION COX-2 protects in the early phase against obstruction-induced fibrosis and maintains angiogenic factors. Increased PGE2 -EP2 receptor in obstructed human and murine kidneys could contribute to protection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Signe S. Tofteng
- Department of Cardiovascular and Renal Research, Institute of Molecular MedicineUniversity of Southern DenmarkOdenseDenmark
| | - Line Nilsson
- Department of Clinical MedicineAarhus UniversityAarhusDenmark
| | - Amalie K. Mogensen
- Department of Cardiovascular and Renal Research, Institute of Molecular MedicineUniversity of Southern DenmarkOdenseDenmark
| | | | - Rolf Nüsing
- Institute of Clinical PharmacologyGoethe UniversityFrankfurtGermany
| | | | - Lars Lund
- Department of UrologyOdense University HospitalOdenseDenmark,Department of Clinical ResearchUniversity of Southern DenmarkOdenseDenmark
| | - Claus Bistrup
- Department of Clinical ResearchUniversity of Southern DenmarkOdenseDenmark,Department of NephrologyOdense University HospitalOdenseDenmark
| | - Boye L. Jensen
- Department of Cardiovascular and Renal Research, Institute of Molecular MedicineUniversity of Southern DenmarkOdenseDenmark
| | - Kirsten Madsen
- Department of Cardiovascular and Renal Research, Institute of Molecular MedicineUniversity of Southern DenmarkOdenseDenmark,Department of PathologyOdense University HospitalOdenseDenmark
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11
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Agonists of prostaglandin E 2 receptors as potential first in class treatment for nephronophthisis and related ciliopathies. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2115960119. [PMID: 35482924 PMCID: PMC9170064 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2115960119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
SignificanceJuvenile nephronophthisis (NPH) is a renal ciliopathy due to a dysfunction of primary cilia for which no curative treatment is available. This paper describes the identification of agonists of prostaglandin E2 receptors as a potential therapeutic approach for the most common NPHP1-associated ciliopathies. We demonstrated that prostaglandin E1 rescues defective ciliogenesis and ciliary composition in NPHP1 patient urine-derived renal tubular cells and improves ciliary and kidney phenotypes in our NPH zebrafish and Nphp1-/- mouse models. In addition, Taprenepag alleviates the severe retinopathy observed in Nphp1-/- mice. Finally, transcriptomic analyses pointed out several pathways downstream the prostaglandin receptors as cell cycle progression, extracellular matrix, or actin cytoskeleton organization. Altogether, our findings provide an alternative for treatment of NPH.
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12
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Vaughan RH, Kresse J, Farmer LK, Thézénas ML, Kessler BM, Lindeman JHN, Sharples EJ, Welsh GI, Nørregaard R, Ploeg RJ, Kaisar M. Cytoskeletal protein degradation in brain death donor kidneys associates with adverse posttransplant outcomes. Am J Transplant 2022; 22:1073-1087. [PMID: 34878723 PMCID: PMC9305475 DOI: 10.1111/ajt.16912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Revised: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
In brain death, cerebral injury contributes to systemic biological dysregulation, causing significant cellular stress in donor kidneys adversely impacting the quality of grafts. Here, we hypothesized that donation after brain death (DBD) kidneys undergo proteolytic processes that may deem grafts susceptible to posttransplant dysfunction. Using mass spectrometry and immunoblotting, we mapped degradation profiles of cytoskeletal proteins in deceased and living donor kidney biopsies. We found that key cytoskeletal proteins in DBD kidneys were proteolytically cleaved, generating peptide fragments, predominantly in grafts with suboptimal posttransplant function. Interestingly, α-actinin-4 and talin-1 proteolytic fragments were detected in brain death but not in circulatory death or living donor kidneys with similar donor characteristics. As talin-1 is a specific proteolytic target of calpain-1, we investigated a potential trigger of calpain activation and talin-1 degradation using human ex vivo precision-cut kidney slices and in vitro podocytes. Notably, we showed that activation of calpain-1 by transforming growth factor-β generated proteolytic fragments of talin-1 that matched the degradation fragments detected in DBD preimplantation kidneys, also causing dysregulation of the actin cytoskeleton in human podocytes; events that were reversed by calpain-1 inhibition. Our data provide initial evidence that brain death donor kidneys are more susceptible to cytoskeletal protein degradation. Correlation to posttransplant outcomes may be established by future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca H. Vaughan
- Research and DevelopmentNHS Blood and TransplantBristol & OxfordUK,Nuffield Department of Surgical SciencesOxford University Hospital OxfordBiomedical Research CentreUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
| | | | - Louise K. Farmer
- Bristol RenalBristol Medical SchoolUniversity of BristolBristolUK
| | - Marie L. Thézénas
- Nuffield Department of MedicineTarget Discovery InstituteUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
| | - Benedikt M. Kessler
- Nuffield Department of MedicineTarget Discovery InstituteUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
| | - Jan H. N. Lindeman
- Department of SurgeryLeiden University Medical CentreLeidenThe Netherlands
| | | | - Gavin I. Welsh
- Bristol RenalBristol Medical SchoolUniversity of BristolBristolUK
| | | | - Rutger J. Ploeg
- Research and DevelopmentNHS Blood and TransplantBristol & OxfordUK,Nuffield Department of Surgical SciencesOxford University Hospital OxfordBiomedical Research CentreUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK,Department of SurgeryLeiden University Medical CentreLeidenThe Netherlands
| | - Maria Kaisar
- Research and DevelopmentNHS Blood and TransplantBristol & OxfordUK,Nuffield Department of Surgical SciencesOxford University Hospital OxfordBiomedical Research CentreUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
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13
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Fuchs MAA, Schrankl J, Leupold C, Wagner C, Kurtz A, Broeker KAE. Intact prostaglandin signaling through EP2 and EP4 receptors in stromal progenitor cells is required for normal development of the renal cortex in mice. Am J Physiol Renal Physiol 2022; 322:F295-F307. [PMID: 35037469 DOI: 10.1152/ajprenal.00414.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Cyclooxygenase (Cox) inhibitors are known to have severe side effects during renal development. These consist of reduced renal function, underdeveloped subcapsular glomeruli, interstitial fibrosis, and thinner cortical tissue. Global genetic deletion of Cox-2 mimics the phenotype observed after application of Cox inhibitors. This study aimed to investigate which cell types express Cox-2 and prostaglandin E2 receptors and what functions are mediated through this pathway during renal development. Expression of EP2 and EP4 mRNA was detected by RNAscope mainly in descendants of FoxD1+ stromal progenitors; EP1 and EP3, on the other hand, were expressed in tubules. Cox-2 mRNA was detected in medullary interstitial cells and macula densa cells. Functional investigations were performed with a cell-specific approach to delete Cox-2, EP2, and EP4 in FoxD1+ stromal progenitor cells. Our data show that Cox-2 expression in macula densa cells is sufficient to drive renal development. Deletion of EP2 or EP4 in FoxD1+ cells had no functional effect on renal development. Codeletion of EP2 and EP4 in FoxD1+ stromal cells, however, led to severe glomerular defects and a strong decline of glomerular filtration rate (1.316 ± 69.7 µL/min/100 g body wt in controls vs. 644.1 ± 64.58 µL/min/100 g body wt in FoxD1+/Cre EP2-/- EP4ff mice), similar to global deletion of Cox-2. Furthermore, EP2/EP4-deficient mice showed a significant increase in collagen production with a strong downregulation of renal renin expression. This study shows the distinct localization of EP receptors in mice. Functionally, we could identify EP2 and EP4 receptors in stromal FoxD1+ progenitor cells as essential receptor subtypes for normal renal development.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Cyclooxygenase-2 (Cox-2) produces prostaglandins that are essential for normal renal development. It is unclear in which cells Cox-2 and the receptors for prostaglandin E2 (EP receptors) are expressed during late nephrogenesis. This study identified the expression sites for EP subtypes and Cox-2 in neonatal mouse kidneys. Furthermore, it shows that stromal progenitor cells may require intact prostaglandin E2 signaling through EP2 and EP4 receptors for normal renal development.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Cyclooxygenase 2/genetics
- Cyclooxygenase 2/metabolism
- Forkhead Transcription Factors/genetics
- Forkhead Transcription Factors/metabolism
- Gene Expression Regulation, Developmental
- Kidney Cortex/cytology
- Kidney Cortex/enzymology
- Male
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Mice, Knockout
- Organogenesis
- Prostaglandins/metabolism
- Receptors, Prostaglandin E, EP2 Subtype/genetics
- Receptors, Prostaglandin E, EP2 Subtype/metabolism
- Receptors, Prostaglandin E, EP4 Subtype/genetics
- Receptors, Prostaglandin E, EP4 Subtype/metabolism
- Signal Transduction
- Stem Cells/metabolism
- Stromal Cells/enzymology
- Mice
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Julia Schrankl
- Institute of Physiology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Christina Leupold
- Institute of Physiology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Charlotte Wagner
- Institute of Physiology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Armin Kurtz
- Institute of Physiology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
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14
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Kresse J, Mutsaers HAM, Jensen MS, Tingskov SJ, Madsen MG, Nejsum LN, Prætorius H, Nørregaard R. EP 1 receptor antagonism mitigates early and late stage renal fibrosis. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2022; 234:e13780. [PMID: 34989478 PMCID: PMC9286353 DOI: 10.1111/apha.13780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Revised: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 01/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
AIM Renal fibrosis is a major driver of chronic kidney disease, yet current treatment strategies are ineffective in attenuating fibrogenesis. The cyclooxygenase/prostaglandin system plays a key role in renal injury and holds great promise as a therapeutic target. Here, we used a translational approach to evaluate the role of the PGE2 -EP1 receptor in the pathogenesis of renal fibrosis in several models of kidney injury, including human (fibrotic) kidney slices. METHODS The anti-fibrotic efficacy of a selective EP1 receptor antagonist (SC-19220) was studied in mice subjected to unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO), healthy and fibrotic human precision-cut kidney slices (PCKS), Madin-Darby Canine Kidney (MDCK) cells and primary human renal fibroblasts (HRFs). Fibrosis was evaluated on gene and protein level using qPCR, western blot and immunostaining. RESULTS EP1 receptor inhibition diminished fibrosis in UUO mice, illustrated by a decreased protein expression of fibronectin (FN) and α-smooth muscle actin (αSMA) and a reduction in collagen deposition. Moreover, treatment of healthy human PCKS with SC-19220 reduced TGF-β-induced fibrosis as shown by decreased expression of collagen 1A1, FN and αSMA as well as reduced collagen deposition. Similar observations were made using fibrotic human PCKS. In addition, SC-19220 reduced TGF-β-induced FN expression in MDCK cells and HRFs. CONCLUSION This study highlights the EP1 receptor as a promising target for preventing both the onset and late stage of renal fibrosis. Moreover, we provide strong evidence that the effect of SC-19220 may translate to clinical care since its effects were observed in UUO mice, cells and human kidney slices.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Lene N. Nejsum
- Department of Clinical MedicineAarhus UniversityAarhusDenmark
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15
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van Leeuwen LL, Leuvenink HGD, Olinga P, Ruigrok MJR. Shifting Paradigms for Suppressing Fibrosis in Kidney Transplants: Supplementing Perfusion Solutions With Anti-fibrotic Drugs. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 8:806774. [PMID: 35083254 PMCID: PMC8784659 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.806774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Great efforts have been made toward addressing the demand for donor kidneys. One of the most promising approaches is to use kidneys from donation after circulatory death donors. These kidneys, however, suffer from more severe ischemia and reperfusion injury than those obtained via donation after brain death and are thus more prone to develop interstitial fibrosis and tubular atrophy. Even though machine perfusion is increasingly used to reduce ischemia and reperfusion injury, there are no effective treatments available to ameliorate interstitial fibrosis and tubular atrophy, forcing patients to resume dialysis, undergo re-transplantation, or suffer from premature death. Safe and effective anti-fibrotic therapies are therefore greatly desired. We propose a new therapeutic approach in which machine perfusion solutions are supplemented with anti-fibrotic compounds. This allows the use of higher concentrations than those used in humans whilst eliminating side effects in other organs. To the authors' knowledge, no one has reviewed whether such an approach could reduce interstitial fibrosis and tubular atrophy; we therefore set out to explore its merit. In this review, we first provide background information on ischemia and reperfusion injury as well as interstitial fibrosis and tubular atrophy, after which we describe currently available approaches for preserving donor kidneys. We then present an evaluation of selected compounds. To identify promising compounds, we analyzed publications describing the effects of anti-fibrotic molecules in precision-cut kidneys slices, which are viable explants that can be cultured ex vivo for up to a few days whilst retaining functional and structural features. LY2109761, galunisertib, imatinib, nintedanib, and butaprost were shown to exert anti-fibrotic effects in slices within a relatively short timeframe (<48 h) and are therefore considered to be excellent candidates for follow-up ex vivo machine perfusion studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- L. Leonie van Leeuwen
- Department of Surgery, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Henri G. D. Leuvenink
- Department of Surgery, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Peter Olinga
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy, Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Mitchel J. R. Ruigrok
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy, Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
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16
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Liu N, Tang J, Xue Y, Mok V, Zhang M, Ren X, Wang Y, Fu J. EP3 Receptor Deficiency Improves Vascular Remodeling and Cognitive Impairment in Cerebral Small Vessel Disease. Aging Dis 2022; 13:313-328. [PMID: 35111376 PMCID: PMC8782563 DOI: 10.14336/ad.2021.0627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Aging and hypertension are major risk factors for cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD). Anti-hypertensive therapy has achieved effective; however, incomplete results in treating CSVD, suggesting the need for additional treatments. Targeting abnormal inflammatory responses has become a topic of research interest. Small artery remodeling is the main pathological feature of CSVD. Inhibition of the E-prostanoid 3 (EP3) receptor has been shown to attenuate vascular remodeling in peripheral organs; however, little is known about its role in CSVD. Therefore, we investigated whether the deletion of EP3 attenuates the development of CSVD in an animal model-- stroke-prone renovascular hypertensive rat (RHRsp). We found that the cerebral small arteries of RHRsp exhibited increased EP3 expression. Despite no alleviation of hypertension, the deletion of EP3 still attenuated the cerebral small artery remodeling of RHRsp, as evidenced by reduced overexpression of extracellular matrix (ECM) in the vessel. In vitro experiments indicated that EP3 deletion regulated the expression of ECM by downregulating TGF-β1/Smad signaling. Furthermore, the Morris water maze test and magnetic resonance test demonstrated that EP3 knockout attenuated cognitive impairment of the RHRsp, possibly through increased cerebral blood flow. Together, our results indicate that the deletion of EP3 attenuates vascular remodeling and vascular cognitive impairment induced by hypertension, and blockade of the EP3 receptor may be a promising strategy for the treatment of CSVD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Liu
- Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Jie Tang
- Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Yang Xue
- Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Vincent Mok
- Gerald Choa Neuroscience Centre, Lui Che Woo Institute of Innovative Medicine, Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Miaoyi Zhang
- Department of Neurology, North Huashan hospital, Fudan University, No.108 Lu Xiang Road, Shanghai, China.
| | - Xue Ren
- Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Yilong Wang
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Correspondence should be addressed to: Dr. Jianhui Fu, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China. ; Dr. Yilong Wang, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China. .
| | - Jianhui Fu
- Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
- Correspondence should be addressed to: Dr. Jianhui Fu, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China. ; Dr. Yilong Wang, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China. .
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17
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Lu Y, Yang L, Chen X, Liu J, Nie A, Chen X. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes improve renal fibrosis by reducing the polarisation of M1 and M2 macrophages through the activation of EP2 receptors. IET Nanobiotechnol 2021; 16:14-24. [PMID: 34862858 PMCID: PMC8806116 DOI: 10.1049/nbt2.12071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Renal fibrosis is the pathological outcome of most end‐stage renal diseases, yet there are still limited therapeutic options for it. In recent years, bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell‐derived exosomes (BM‐MSCs) have received much attention. Here, we investigate the therapeutic effect of BM‐MSCs on unilateral ureteral occlusion (UUO)‐induced interstitial fibrosis in the kidney by modulating prostaglandin E2 receptor 2 (EP2). Renal pathological changes were evident in the UUO group compared to the control group, with significantly increased expression of α‐smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA), fibronectin, Ep2 and F4/80+CD86+ and F4/80+CD206+ cells in the UUO group (p< 0.05). Pathological changes were alleviated and F4/80+CD86+ and F480/+CD206+ cells were reduced after exosome or EP2 agonist intervention compared to the UUO group. These data were further confirmed in vitro. Compared to the lipopolysaccharide (LPS) group and the LPS + exosome + Ah6809 group, the lipopolysaccharide (LPS) + exosome group and the LPS + butaprost group showed a significant decrease in α‐SMA expression, a decrease in the number of F4/80+CD86+ and F4/80+CD206+ cells, a decrease in interleukin (IL)‐6 and an increase in IL‐10 levels. Therefore, we conclude that BM‐MSCs can reduce the polarization of M1 and M2 macrophages by activating EP2 receptors, thereby ameliorating renal fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuqing Lu
- Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China.,Department of Nephrology, The Second People Hospital of Luohe, Luohe, Henan, China
| | - Lulu Yang
- Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiao Chen
- Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jing Liu
- Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Anqi Nie
- Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
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18
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Affiliation(s)
- Karin M. Kirschner
- Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlincorporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt‐Universität zu BerlinInstitute of Vegetative Physiology Berlin Germany
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19
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Nakamura N, Honjo M, Yamagishi R, Igarashi N, Sakata R, Aihara M. Effects of selective EP2 receptor agonist, omidenepag, on trabecular meshwork cells, Schlemm's canal endothelial cells and ciliary muscle contraction. Sci Rep 2021; 11:16257. [PMID: 34376747 PMCID: PMC8355290 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-95768-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
This study investigated the effects of omidenepag (OMD), a novel selective EP2 receptor agonist, on human trabecular meshwork (HTM) cells, monkey Schlemm’s canal endothelial (SCE) cells, and porcine ciliary muscle (CM) to clarify the mechanism of intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction involving conventional outflow pathway. In HTM and SCE cells, the effects of OMD on transforming growth factor-β2 (TGF-β2)-induced changes were examined. The expression of actin cytoskeleton and extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins, myosin light chain (MLC) phosphorylation in HTM cells were evaluated using real-time quantitative PCR, immunocytochemistry, and western blotting. The expression of barrier-related proteins, ZO-1 and β-catenin, and permeability of SCE cells were evaluated using immunocytochemistry and transendothelial electrical resistance. The CM contraction was determined by contractibility assay. OMD significantly inhibited expression of TGF-β2 induced mRNA, protein, and MLC-phosphorylation on cytoskeletal and ECM remodeling in the HTM dose dependently. In SCE cells, OMD suppressed TGF-β2-induced expression of the barrier-related proteins and decreased SCE monolayer permeability. OMD at 3 µM significantly inhibited CM contraction, however, the effect was not significant at lower concentrations. IOP lowering effect of OMD through conventional outflow pathway is exerted by increasing outflow facilities with the modulation of TM cell fibrosis and SCE cell permeability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natsuko Nakamura
- Department of Ophthalmology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 1138655, Japan.,Division of Vision Research, National Institute of Sensory Organs, National Hospital Organization Tokyo Medical Center, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Megumi Honjo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 1138655, Japan.
| | - Reiko Yamagishi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 1138655, Japan
| | - Nozomi Igarashi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 1138655, Japan
| | - Rei Sakata
- Department of Ophthalmology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 1138655, Japan
| | - Makoto Aihara
- Department of Ophthalmology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 1138655, Japan
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20
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Local Inhibition of Indoleamine 2,3-Dioxygenase Mitigates Renal Fibrosis. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9080856. [PMID: 34440060 PMCID: PMC8389588 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9080856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a major global health concern and renal fibrosis is an integral part of the pathophysiological mechanism underlying disease progression. In CKD patients, the majority of metabolic pathways are in disarray and perturbations in enzyme activity most likely contribute to the wide variety of comorbidities observed in these patients. To illustrate, catabolism of tryptophan by indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) gives rise to numerous biologically active metabolites implicated in CKD progression. Here, we evaluated the effect of antagonizing IDO on renal fibrogenesis. To this end, we antagonized IDO using 1-methyl-D-tryptophan (1-MT) and BMS-98620 in TGF-β-treated murine precision-cut kidney slices (mPCKS) and in mice subjected to unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO). The fibrotic response was evaluated on both the gene and protein level using qPCR and western blotting. Our results demonstrated that treatment with 1-MT or BMS-985205 markedly reduced TGF-β-mediated fibrosis in mPCKS, as seen by a decreased expression of collagen type 1, fibronectin, and α-smooth muscle actin. Moreover, IDO protein expression clearly increased following UUO, however, treatment of UUO mice with either 1-MT or BMS-986205 did not significantly affect the gene and protein expression of the tested fibrosis markers. However, both inhibitors significantly reduced the renal deposition of collagen in UUO mice as shown by Sirius red and trichrome staining. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that IDO antagonism effectively mitigates fibrogenesis in mPCKS and reduces renal collagen accumulation in UUO mice. These findings warrant further research into the clinical application of IDO inhibitors for the treatment of renal fibrosis.
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21
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Kocic G, Gajic M, Tomovic K, Hadzi-Djokic J, Anderluh M, Smelcerovic A. Purine adducts as a presumable missing link for aristolochic acid nephropathy-related cellular energy crisis, potential anti-fibrotic prevention and treatment. Br J Pharmacol 2021; 178:4411-4427. [PMID: 34235731 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Revised: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Aristolochic acid nephropathy is a progressive exposome-induced disease characterized by tubular atrophy and fibrosis culminating in end-stage renal disease and malignancies. The molecular mechanisms of the energy crisis as a putative cause of fibrosis have not yet been elucidated. In light of the fact that aristolochic acid forms DNA and RNA adducts by covalent binding of aristolochic acid metabolites to exocyclic amino groups of (deoxy)adenosine and (deoxy)guanosine, we hypothesize here that similar aristolochic acid adducts may exist with other purine-containing molecules. We also provide new insights into the aristolochic acid-induced energy crisis and presumably a link between already known mechanisms. In addition, an overview of potential targets in fibrosis treatment is provided, which is followed by recommendations on possible preventive measures that could be taken to at least postpone or partially alleviate aristolochic acid nephropathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gordana Kocic
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Nis, Nis, Serbia
| | - Mihajlo Gajic
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Nis, Nis, Serbia
| | - Katarina Tomovic
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Nis, Nis, Serbia
| | | | - Marko Anderluh
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Andrija Smelcerovic
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Nis, Nis, Serbia
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22
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Li K, Zhao J, Wang M, Niu L, Wang Y, Li Y, Zheng Y. The Roles of Various Prostaglandins in Fibrosis: A Review. Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11060789. [PMID: 34073892 PMCID: PMC8225152 DOI: 10.3390/biom11060789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Revised: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Organ fibrosis is a common pathological result of various chronic diseases with multiple causes. Fibrosis is characterized by the excessive deposition of extracellular matrix and eventually leads to the destruction of the tissue structure and impaired organ function. Prostaglandins are produced by arachidonic acid through cyclooxygenases and various prostaglandin-specific synthases. Prostaglandins bind to homologous receptors on adjacent tissue cells in an autocrine or paracrine manner and participate in the regulation of a series of physiological or pathological processes, including fibrosis. This review summarizes the properties, synthesis, and degradation of various prostaglandins, as well as the roles of these prostaglandins and their receptors in fibrosis in multiple models to reveal the clinical significance of prostaglandins and their receptors in the treatment of fibrosis.
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23
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Sholokh A, Klussmann E. Local cyclic adenosine monophosphate signalling cascades-Roles and targets in chronic kidney disease. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2021; 232:e13641. [PMID: 33660401 DOI: 10.1111/apha.13641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Revised: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The molecular mechanisms underlying chronic kidney disease (CKD) are poorly understood and treatment options are limited, a situation underpinning the need for elucidating the causative molecular mechanisms and for identifying innovative treatment options. It is emerging that cyclic 3',5'-adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) signalling occurs in defined cellular compartments within nanometre dimensions in processes whose dysregulation is associated with CKD. cAMP compartmentalization is tightly controlled by a specific set of proteins, including A-kinase anchoring proteins (AKAPs) and phosphodiesterases (PDEs). AKAPs such as AKAP18, AKAP220, AKAP-Lbc and STUB1, and PDE4 coordinate arginine-vasopressin (AVP)-induced water reabsorption by collecting duct principal cells. However, hyperactivation of the AVP system is associated with kidney damage and CKD. Podocyte injury involves aberrant AKAP signalling. cAMP signalling in immune cells can be local and slow the progression of inflammatory processes typical for CKD. A major risk factor of CKD is hypertension. cAMP directs the release of the blood pressure regulator, renin, from juxtaglomerular cells, and plays a role in Na+ reabsorption through ENaC, NKCC2 and NCC in the kidney. Mutations in the cAMP hydrolysing PDE3A that cause lowering of cAMP lead to hypertension. Another major risk factor of CKD is diabetes mellitus. AKAP18 and AKAP150 and several PDEs are involved in insulin release. Despite the increasing amount of data, an understanding of functions of compartmentalized cAMP signalling with relevance for CKD is fragmentary. Uncovering functions will improve the understanding of physiological processes and identification of disease-relevant aberrations may guide towards new therapeutic concepts for the treatment of CKD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasiia Sholokh
- Max‐Delbrück‐Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC) Helmholtz Association Berlin Germany
| | - Enno Klussmann
- Max‐Delbrück‐Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC) Helmholtz Association Berlin Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research) Berlin Germany
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24
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Persson PB, Persson AB. Pregnancy. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2021; 231:e13582. [PMID: 33220173 DOI: 10.1111/apha.13582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Pontus B. Persson
- Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin Humboldt‐Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health Institute of Vegetative Physiology Berlin Germany
| | - Anja B. Persson
- Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin Humboldt‐Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health Berlin Germany
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25
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Mrowka R. Kidney research. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2020; 230:e13569. [PMID: 33063924 DOI: 10.1111/apha.13569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ralf Mrowka
- Klinik für Innere Medizin III AG Experimentelle Nephrologie Universitätsklinikum Jena Jena Germany
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26
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Affiliation(s)
- Kameliya Spasova
- Institut für Vegetative Physiologie, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Michael Fähling
- Institut für Vegetative Physiologie, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
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27
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Zhang J, Vardy E, Muise ES, Wang TM, Visconti R, Vadlamudi A, Pinto S, Peier AM. Utilizing Designed Receptors Exclusively Activated by Designer Drug Chemogenetic Tools to Identify Beneficial G Protein-Coupled Receptor Signaling for Fibrosis. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2020; 375:357-366. [PMID: 32848074 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.120.000103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2020] [Accepted: 08/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis or accumulation of extracellular matrix is an evolutionarily conserved mechanism adopted by an organism as a response to chronic injury. Excessive fibrosis, however, leads to disruption of organ homeostasis and is a common feature of many chronic diseases. G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are important cell signaling mediators and represent molecular targets for many Food and Drug Administration-approved drugs. To identify new targets for fibrosis, we used a synthetic GPCR system named designed receptors exclusively activated by designer drugs (DREADDs) to probe signaling pathways essential for fibrotic response. We found that upon expression in human lung fibroblasts, activation of Gq- and Gs-DREADDs abrogated the induction of TGFβ-induced fibrosis marker genes. Genome-wide transcriptome analysis identified dysregulation of multiple GPCRs in lung fibroblasts treated with TGFβ To investigate endogenous GPCR modulating TGFβ signaling, we selected 13 GPCRs that signal through Gq or Gs and activated them by using specific agonists. We examined the impact of each agonist and how activation of endogenous GPCR affects TGFβ signaling. Among the agonists examined, prostaglandin receptor agonists demonstrated the strongest inhibitory effect on fibrosis. Together, we have demonstrated that the DREADDs system is a valuable tool to identify beneficial GPCR signaling for fibrosis. This study in fibroblasts has served as a proof of concept and allowed us to further develop in vivo models for fibrosis GPCR discovery. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Fibrosis is the hallmark of many end-stage cardiometabolic diseases, and there is an unmet medical need to discover new antifibrotic therapies, reduce disease progression, and bring clinically meaningful efficacy to patients. Our work utilizes designed receptors exclusively activated by designer drug chemogenetic tools to identify beneficial GPCR signaling for fibrosis, providing new insights into GPCR drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji Zhang
- Departments of Cardiometabolic Diseases (J.Z., S.P.), Screening and Compound Profiling (E.V., R.V., A.V., A.M.P.), GpGx (E.S.M.), and Translational Biomarkers (T.-M.W.), MRL, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, New Jersey; and Kallyope Inc., New York, New York (E.V., S.P.)
| | - Eyal Vardy
- Departments of Cardiometabolic Diseases (J.Z., S.P.), Screening and Compound Profiling (E.V., R.V., A.V., A.M.P.), GpGx (E.S.M.), and Translational Biomarkers (T.-M.W.), MRL, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, New Jersey; and Kallyope Inc., New York, New York (E.V., S.P.)
| | - Eric S Muise
- Departments of Cardiometabolic Diseases (J.Z., S.P.), Screening and Compound Profiling (E.V., R.V., A.V., A.M.P.), GpGx (E.S.M.), and Translational Biomarkers (T.-M.W.), MRL, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, New Jersey; and Kallyope Inc., New York, New York (E.V., S.P.)
| | - Tzu-Ming Wang
- Departments of Cardiometabolic Diseases (J.Z., S.P.), Screening and Compound Profiling (E.V., R.V., A.V., A.M.P.), GpGx (E.S.M.), and Translational Biomarkers (T.-M.W.), MRL, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, New Jersey; and Kallyope Inc., New York, New York (E.V., S.P.)
| | - Richard Visconti
- Departments of Cardiometabolic Diseases (J.Z., S.P.), Screening and Compound Profiling (E.V., R.V., A.V., A.M.P.), GpGx (E.S.M.), and Translational Biomarkers (T.-M.W.), MRL, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, New Jersey; and Kallyope Inc., New York, New York (E.V., S.P.)
| | - Ashita Vadlamudi
- Departments of Cardiometabolic Diseases (J.Z., S.P.), Screening and Compound Profiling (E.V., R.V., A.V., A.M.P.), GpGx (E.S.M.), and Translational Biomarkers (T.-M.W.), MRL, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, New Jersey; and Kallyope Inc., New York, New York (E.V., S.P.)
| | - Shirly Pinto
- Departments of Cardiometabolic Diseases (J.Z., S.P.), Screening and Compound Profiling (E.V., R.V., A.V., A.M.P.), GpGx (E.S.M.), and Translational Biomarkers (T.-M.W.), MRL, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, New Jersey; and Kallyope Inc., New York, New York (E.V., S.P.)
| | - Andrea M Peier
- Departments of Cardiometabolic Diseases (J.Z., S.P.), Screening and Compound Profiling (E.V., R.V., A.V., A.M.P.), GpGx (E.S.M.), and Translational Biomarkers (T.-M.W.), MRL, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, New Jersey; and Kallyope Inc., New York, New York (E.V., S.P.)
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Predictive Value of Precision-Cut Kidney Slices as an Ex Vivo Screening Platform for Therapeutics in Human Renal Fibrosis. Pharmaceutics 2020; 12:pharmaceutics12050459. [PMID: 32443499 PMCID: PMC7285118 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics12050459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Revised: 05/10/2020] [Accepted: 05/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Animal models are a valuable tool in preclinical research. However, limited predictivity of human biological responses in the conventional models has stimulated the search for reliable preclinical tools that show translational robustness. Here, we used precision-cut kidney slices (PCKS) as a model of renal fibrosis and investigated its predictive capacity for screening the effects of anti-fibrotics. Murine and human PCKS were exposed to TGFβ or PDGF pathway inhibitors with established anti-fibrotic efficacy. For each treatment modality, we evaluated whether it affected: (1) culture-induced collagen type I gene expression and interstitial accumulation; (2) expression of markers of TGFβ and PDGF signaling; and (3) expression of inflammatory markers. We summarized the outcomes of published in vivo animal and human studies testing the three inhibitors in renal fibrosis, and drew a parallel to the PCKS data. We showed that the responses of murine PCKS to anti-fibrotics highly corresponded with the known in vivo responses observed in various animal models of renal fibrosis. Moreover, our results suggested that human PCKS can be used to predict drug efficacy in clinical trials. In conclusion, our study demonstrated that the PCKS model is a powerful predictive tool for ex vivo screening of putative drugs for renal fibrosis.
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Rianto F, Kuma A, Ellis CL, Hassounah F, Rodriguez EL, Wang XH, Sands JM, Klein JD. UT-A1/A3 knockout mice show reduced fibrosis following unilateral ureteral obstruction. Am J Physiol Renal Physiol 2020; 318:F1160-F1166. [PMID: 32174141 PMCID: PMC7294340 DOI: 10.1152/ajprenal.00008.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2020] [Revised: 02/24/2020] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Renal fibrosis is a major contributor to the development and progression of chronic kidney disease. A low-protein diet can reduce the progression of chronic kidney disease and reduce the development of renal fibrosis, although the mechanism is not well understood. Urea reabsorption into the inner medulla is regulated by inner medullary urea transporter (UT)-A1 and UT-A3. Inhibition or knockout of UT-A1/A3 will reduce interstitial urea accumulation, which may be beneficial in reducing renal fibrosis. To test this hypothesis, the effect of unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) was compared in wild-type (WT) and UT-A1/A3 knockout mice. UUO causes increased extracellular matrix associated with increases in transforming growth factor-β, vimentin, and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA). In WT mice, UUO increased the abundance of three markers of fibrosis: transforming growth factor-β, vimentin, and α-SMA. In contrast, in UT-A1/A3 knockout mice, the increase following UUO was significantly reduced. Consistent with the Western blot results, immunohistochemical staining showed that the levels of vimentin and α-SMA were increased in WT mice with UUO and that the increase was reduced in UT-A1/A3 knockout mice with UUO. Masson's trichrome staining showed increased collagen in WT mice with UUO, which was reduced in UT-A1/A3 knockout mice with UUO. We conclude that reduced UT activity reduces the severity of renal fibrosis following UUO.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fitra Rianto
- Renal Division, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Akihiro Kuma
- Renal Division, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
- Second Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan
| | - Carla L Ellis
- Department of Pathology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Faten Hassounah
- Renal Division, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Eva L Rodriguez
- Renal Division, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Xiaonan H Wang
- Renal Division, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Jeff M Sands
- Renal Division, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Janet D Klein
- Renal Division, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
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Nørgård MØ, Christensen M, Mutsaers HA, Nørregaard R. Phenformin Attenuates Renal Injury in Unilateral Ureteral Obstructed Mice without Affecting Immune Cell Infiltration. Pharmaceutics 2020; 12:pharmaceutics12040301. [PMID: 32224876 PMCID: PMC7238166 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics12040301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Revised: 03/23/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Phenformin and metformin are antihyperglycemic drugs that belong to the class of biguanides. Previously, we demonstrated that metformin elicits renoprotective effects in unilateral ureteral obstructed mice by reducing the infiltration of immune cells into the kidney. Since phenformin is a more potent drug as compared to metformin, we investigated the renoprotective properties of phenformin. We studied the efficacy of both drugs using mice that underwent unilateral ureteral obstruction. Renal damage was evaluated on RNA and protein level by qPCR, Western blotting, and immunohistochemistry. Moreover, we studied immune cell infiltration using flow cytometry. Both biguanides significantly reduced UUO-induced kidney injury, as illustrated by a reduction in KIM-1 protein expression. In addition, both metformin and phenformin impacted the gene expression of several inflammatory markers but to a different extent. Moreover, in contrast to metformin, phenformin did not impact immune cell infiltration into UUO kidneys. In conclusion, we demonstrated that phenformin has similar renoprotective effects as metformin, but the mechanism of action differs, and phenformin is more potent. The beneficial effects of phenformin are probably due to inhibition of the STAT3 pathway and mitochondrial complex I. Further research is needed to unveil the therapeutic potential of phenformin for the treatment of renal injury, either at low, non-toxic concentrations or as part of a combination therapy.
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31
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Saleh LS, Vanderheyden C, Frederickson A, Bryant SJ. Prostaglandin E2 and Its Receptor EP2 Modulate Macrophage Activation and Fusion in Vitro. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2020; 6:2668-2681. [PMID: 33463295 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.9b01180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The foreign body response (FBR) has impaired progress of new implantable medical devices through its hallmark of chronic inflammation and foreign body giant cell (FBGC) formation leading to fibrous encapsulation. Macrophages are known to drive the FBR, but efforts to control macrophage polarization remain challenging. The goal for this study was to investigate whether prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), and specifically its receptors EP2 and/or EP4, attenuate classically activated (i.e., inflammatory) macrophages and macrophage fusion into FBGCs in vitro. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated macrophages exhibited a dose-dependent decrease in gene expression and protein production of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) when treated with PGE2. This attenuation was primarily by the EP4 receptor, as the addition of the EP2 antagonist PF 04418948 to PGE2-treated LPS-stimulated cells did not recover TNF-α production while the EP4 antagonist ONO AE3 208 did. However, direct stimulation of EP2 with the agonist butaprost to LPS-stimulated macrophages resulted in a ∼60% decrease in TNF-α secretion after 4 h and corresponded with an increase in gene expression for Cebpb and Il10, suggesting a polarization shift toward alternative activation through EP2 alone. Further, fusion of macrophages into FBGCs induced by interleukin-4 (IL-4) and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) was inhibited by PGE2 via EP2 signaling and by an EP2 agonist, but not an EP4 agonist. The attenuation by PGE2 was confirmed to be primarily by the EP2 receptor. Mrc1, Dcstamp, and Retlna expressions increased upon IL-4/GM-CSF stimulation, but only Retnla expression with the EP2 agonist returned to levels that were not different from controls. This study identified that PGE2 attenuates classically activated macrophages and macrophage fusion through distinct EP receptors, while targeting EP2 is able to attenuate both. In summary, this study identified EP2 as a potential therapeutic target for reducing the FBR to biomaterials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila S Saleh
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado, 3415 Colorado Avenue, Boulder, Colorado 80309, United States
| | - Casey Vanderheyden
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado, 3415 Colorado Avenue, Boulder, Colorado 80309, United States
| | - Andrew Frederickson
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado, 3415 Colorado Avenue, Boulder, Colorado 80309, United States
| | - Stephanie J Bryant
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado, 3415 Colorado Avenue, Boulder, Colorado 80309, United States.,BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado, 3415 Colorado Avenue, Boulder, Colorado 80309, United States.,Material Science and Engineering Program, University of Colorado, 3415 Colorado Avenue, Boulder, Colorado 80309, United States
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32
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Oakley F, Gee LM, Sheerin NS, Borthwick LA. Implementation of pre-clinical methodologies to study fibrosis and test anti-fibrotic therapy. Curr Opin Pharmacol 2019; 49:95-101. [PMID: 31731225 PMCID: PMC6904905 DOI: 10.1016/j.coph.2019.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2019] [Accepted: 10/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Diseases where fibrosis plays a major role accounts for enormous morbidity and mortality and yet we have very little in our therapeutic arsenal despite decades of research and clinical trials. Our understanding of fibrosis biology is primarily built on data generated in conventional mono-culture or co-culture systems and in vivo model systems. While these approaches have undoubtedly enhanced our understanding of basic mechanisms, they have repeatedly failed to translate to clinical benefit. Recently, there had been a push to generate more physiologically relevant platforms to study fibrosis and identify new therapeutic targets. Here we review the state-of-the-art regarding the development and application of 3D complex cultures, bio-printing and precision cut slices to study pulmonary, hepatic and renal fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona Oakley
- Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group, Institute of Cellular Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Lucy M Gee
- Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group, Institute of Cellular Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Neil S Sheerin
- Renal Department, Freeman Hospital, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK; Applied Immunobiology and Transplantation Research Group, Institute of Cellular Medicine, Medical School, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Lee A Borthwick
- Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group, Institute of Cellular Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK.
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33
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Jensen MS, Mutsaers HAM, Tingskov SJ, Christensen M, Madsen MG, Olinga P, Kwon T, Nørregaard R. Activation of the prostaglandin E 2 EP 2 receptor attenuates renal fibrosis in unilateral ureteral obstructed mice and human kidney slices. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2019; 227:e13291. [PMID: 31054202 PMCID: PMC6767420 DOI: 10.1111/apha.13291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2019] [Revised: 04/15/2019] [Accepted: 04/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Aim Renal fibrosis plays a pivotal role in the development and progression of chronic kidney disease, which affects 10% of the adult population. Previously, it has been demonstrated that the cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2)/prostaglandin (PG) system influences the progression of renal injury. Here, we evaluated the impact of butaprost, a selective EP2 receptor agonist, on renal fibrosis in several models of kidney injury, including human tissue slices. Methods We studied the anti‐fibrotic efficacy of butaprost using Madin‐Darby Canine Kidney (MDCK) cells, mice that underwent unilateral ureteral obstruction and human precision‐cut kidney slices. Fibrogenesis was evaluated on a gene and protein level by qPCR and Western blotting. Results Butaprost (50 μM) reduced TGF‐β‐induced fibronectin (FN) expression, Smad2 phosphorylation and epithelial‐mesenchymal transition in MDCK cells. In addition, treatment with 4 mg/kg/day butaprost attenuated the development of fibrosis in mice that underwent unilateral ureteral obstruction surgery, as illustrated by a reduction in the gene and protein expression of α‐smooth muscle actin, FN and collagen 1A1. More importantly, a similar anti‐fibrotic effect of butaprost was observed in human precision‐cut kidney slices exposed to TGF‐β. The mechanism of action of butaprost appeared to be a direct effect on TGF‐β/Smad signalling, which was independent of the cAMP/PKA pathway. Conclusion In conclusion, this study demonstrates that stimulation of the EP2 receptor effectively mitigates renal fibrogenesis in various fibrosis models. These findings warrant further research into the clinical application of butaprost, or other EP2 agonists, for the inhibition of renal fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Peter Olinga
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy University of Groningen Groningen the Netherlands
| | - Tae‐Hwan Kwon
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, School of Medicine Kyungpook National University Daegu Korea
| | - Rikke Nørregaard
- Department of Clinical Medicine Aarhus University Aarhus Denmark
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