1
|
Bao Q, Wang A, Hong W, Wang Y, Li B, He L, Yuan X, Ma G. The c-Abl-RACK1-FAK signaling axis promotes renal fibrosis in mice through regulating fibroblast-myofibroblast transition. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:247. [PMID: 38689280 PMCID: PMC11059681 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-024-01603-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: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Renal fibrosis is a prevalent manifestation of chronic kidney disease (CKD), and effective treatments for this disease are currently lacking. Myofibroblasts, which originate from interstitial fibroblasts, aggregate in the renal interstitium, leading to significant accumulation of extracellular matrix and impairment of renal function. The nonreceptor tyrosine kinase c-Abl (encoded by the Abl1 gene) has been implicated in the development of renal fibrosis. However, the precise role of c-Abl in this process and its involvement in fibroblast-myofibroblast transition (FMT) remain poorly understood. METHODS To investigate the effect of c-Abl in FMT during renal fibrosis, we investigated the expression of c-Abl in fibrotic renal tissues of patients with CKD and mouse models. We studied the phenotypic changes in fibroblast or myofibroblast-specific c-Abl conditional knockout mice. We explored the potential targets of c-Abl in NRK-49F fibroblasts. RESULTS In this study, fibrotic mouse and cell models demonstrated that c-Abl deficiency in fibroblasts mitigated fibrosis by suppressing fibroblast activation, fibroblast-myofibroblast transition, and extracellular matrix deposition. Mechanistically, c-Abl maintains the stability of the RACK1 protein, which serves as a scaffold for proteins such as c-Abl and focal adhesion kinase at focal adhesions, driving fibroblast activation and differentiation during renal fibrosis. Moreover, specifically targeting c-Abl deletion in renal myofibroblasts could prove beneficial in established kidney fibrosis by reducing RACK1 expression and diminishing the extent of fibrosis. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that c-Abl plays a pathogenic role in interstitial fibrosis through the regulation of RACK1 protein stabilization and myofibroblast differentiation, suggesting a promising strategy for the treatment of CKD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qianyi Bao
- School of Medicine, Southeast University, 87 Ding Jiaqiao Rd, Nanjing, 210009, P.R. China
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Developmental and Neuropsychiatric Disorders (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Anyu Wang
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Developmental and Neuropsychiatric Disorders (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Wenxuan Hong
- Department of Cardiology, Shanghai Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Yushu Wang
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Developmental and Neuropsychiatric Disorders (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Baojie Li
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Developmental and Neuropsychiatric Disorders (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Lin He
- School of Medicine, Southeast University, 87 Ding Jiaqiao Rd, Nanjing, 210009, P.R. China
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Developmental and Neuropsychiatric Disorders (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Xiaodong Yuan
- Department of Urology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China.
| | - Gang Ma
- School of Medicine, Southeast University, 87 Ding Jiaqiao Rd, Nanjing, 210009, P.R. China.
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Developmental and Neuropsychiatric Disorders (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, P.R. China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Wasson CW, De Lorenzis E, Clavane EM, Ross RL, Walker KA, Caballero-Ruiz B, Antinozzi C, Wells R, Migneco G, Brown JMY, Turvey SJ, Simmons KJ, Riobo-Del Galdo NA, Di Luigi L, McKimmie CS, Del Galdo F, Meakin PJ. The β-Secretase BACE1 Drives Fibroblast Activation in Systemic Sclerosis through the APP/β-Catenin/Notch Signaling Axis. J Invest Dermatol 2024:S0022-202X(24)00265-3. [PMID: 38570030 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2024.03.024] [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: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
BACE1 is well-known for its role in the development of Alzheimer's disease. Recent publications, including our own, have demonstrated a role for this enzyme in other chronic diseases. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of BACE1 in the autoimmune disease systemic sclerosis (SSc). BACE1 protein levels were elevated in the skin of patients with SSc. Inhibition of BACE1 with small-molecule inhibitors or small interfering RNA blocked SSc and fibrotic stimuli-mediated fibroblast activation. Furthermore, we show that BACE1 regulation of dermal fibroblast activation is dependent on β-catenin and Notch signaling. The neurotropic factor brain-derived neurotrophic factor negatively regulates BACE1 expression and activity in dermal fibroblasts. Finally, sera from patients with SSc show higher β-amyloid and lower brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels than healthy controls. The ability of BACE1 to regulate SSc fibroblast activation reveals a therapeutic target in SSc. Several BACE1 inhibitors have been shown to be safe in clinical trials for Alzheimer's disease and could be repurposed to ameliorate fibrosis progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher W Wasson
- Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Enrico De Lorenzis
- Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom; Division of Rheumatology, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Eva M Clavane
- Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Rebecca L Ross
- Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Kieran A Walker
- Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Begoña Caballero-Ruiz
- Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Cristina Antinozzi
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University of Rome Foro Italico, Rome, Italy
| | - Rebecca Wells
- Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Gemma Migneco
- Department of Pharmacology & Physiology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Jane M Y Brown
- Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Samuel J Turvey
- Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Katie J Simmons
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Natalia A Riobo-Del Galdo
- Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom; School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom; Leeds Institute of Medical Research, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Luigi Di Luigi
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University of Rome Foro Italico, Rome, Italy
| | - Clive S McKimmie
- Leeds Institute of Medical Research, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Francesco Del Galdo
- Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom; Scleroderma Programme, NIHR Leeds Musculoskeletal Biomedical Research Centre, Leeds, United Kingdom.
| | - Paul J Meakin
- Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Bildyug N. Inhibition of Integrin-Associated Kinases FAK and ILK on the In Vitro Model of Skin Wound Healing. Appl Biochem Biotechnol 2024:10.1007/s12010-023-04842-x. [PMID: 38165590 DOI: 10.1007/s12010-023-04842-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/04/2024]
Abstract
Dermal fibroblasts are essential cells of skin tissue responsible for its normal functioning. In skin wounds, the differentiation of resident fibroblasts into myofibroblasts occurs, which is accompanied by the rearrangement of actin cytoskeleton with the expression of alpha-smooth muscle actin. This transformation is a prerequisite for a successful wound healing. At the same time, different studies indicate that extracellular matrix may be involved in regulation of this process. Since the connection between cells and matrix is provided by transmembrane integrin receptors, this work was aimed at studying the dynamics of signaling pathways associated with integrins on an in vitro model of wound healing using human skin fibroblasts. It was shown that the healing of simulated wound was accompanied by a change in the level of integrins as well as integrin-associated kinases ILK (integrin-linked kinase) and FAK (focal adhesion kinase). Pharmacological inhibition of ILK and FAK caused the suppression of p38 and Akt which proteins are involved in regulation of the actin cytoskeleton. Moreover, it resulted in an inefficient wound closure in vitro. The results of this study support the involvement of integrin-associated kinases in regulation of fibroblast-to-myofibroblast transition during wound healing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natalya Bildyug
- Institute of Cytology Russian Academy of Sciences, Centre for Cell Technologies, Tikhoretsky ave. 4, 194064, Saint Petersburg, Russia.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Radwańska P, Gałdyszyńska M, Piera L, Drobnik J. Kisspeptin-10 increases collagen content in the myocardium by focal adhesion kinase activity. Sci Rep 2023; 13:19977. [PMID: 37968564 PMCID: PMC10651918 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-47224-3] [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: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of the study was to evaluate the role of kisspeptin-10 (KiSS-10) in the regulation of collagen content in cardiac fibroblasts. An attempt was also made to describe the mechanism of the effect of KiSS-10 on collagen metabolism. The studies indicate that kisspeptin-10 significantly increases the content of intracellular collagen in the myocardium. KiSS-10 also elevates the level of phosphorylated focal adhesion kinase (FAK) in human cardiac fibroblasts. The inhibition of FAK negates the stimulatory effect of KiSS-10 on collagen deposition in vitro. These changes correlate with an increase in the level of propeptides of procollagen type I (PICP) and III (PIIICP) in fibroblast culture medium and mouse PIIICP in serum. Moreover, this hormone inhibits the release of metalloproteinases (MMP-1,-2,-9) and elevates the secretion of their tissue inhibitors (TIMP-1,-2,-4). KiSS-10 also enhances the expression of α1 chains of procollagen type I and III in vitro. Thus, KiSS-10 is involved in the regulation of collagen metabolism and cardiac fibrosis. Augmentation of collagen deposition by KiSS-10 is dependent on the protein synthesis elevation, inhibition of MMPs activity (increase of TIMPs release) or decrease of MMPs concentration. The profibrotic activity of KiSS-10 is mediated by FAK and is not dependent on TGF-β1.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paulina Radwańska
- Department of Pathophysiology, Institute of General and Experimental Pathology, Medical University of Lodz, Żeligowskiego 7/9, 90-752, Lodz, Poland.
| | - Małgorzata Gałdyszyńska
- Department of Pathophysiology, Institute of General and Experimental Pathology, Medical University of Lodz, Żeligowskiego 7/9, 90-752, Lodz, Poland
| | - Lucyna Piera
- Department of Pathophysiology, Institute of General and Experimental Pathology, Medical University of Lodz, Żeligowskiego 7/9, 90-752, Lodz, Poland
| | - Jacek Drobnik
- Department of Pathophysiology, Institute of General and Experimental Pathology, Medical University of Lodz, Żeligowskiego 7/9, 90-752, Lodz, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
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.
Collapse
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.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Shutova MS, Boehncke WH. Mechanotransduction in Skin Inflammation. Cells 2022; 11:cells11132026. [PMID: 35805110 PMCID: PMC9265324 DOI: 10.3390/cells11132026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Revised: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In the process of mechanotransduction, the cells in the body perceive and interpret mechanical stimuli to maintain tissue homeostasis and respond to the environmental changes. Increasing evidence points towards dysregulated mechanotransduction as a pathologically relevant factor in human diseases, including inflammatory conditions. Skin is the organ that constantly undergoes considerable mechanical stresses, and the ability of mechanical factors to provoke inflammatory processes in the skin has long been known, with the Koebner phenomenon being an example. However, the molecular mechanisms and key factors linking mechanotransduction and cutaneous inflammation remain understudied. In this review, we outline the key players in the tissue’s mechanical homeostasis, the available data, and the gaps in our current understanding of their aberrant regulation in chronic cutaneous inflammation. We mainly focus on psoriasis as one of the most studied skin inflammatory diseases; we also discuss mechanotransduction in the context of skin fibrosis as a result of chronic inflammation. Even though the role of mechanotransduction in inflammation of the simple epithelia of internal organs is being actively studied, we conclude that the mechanoregulation in the stratified epidermis of the skin requires more attention in future translational research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria S. Shutova
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland;
- Department of Dermatology, Geneva University Hospitals, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland
- Correspondence:
| | - Wolf-Henning Boehncke
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland;
- Department of Dermatology, Geneva University Hospitals, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Romano E, Rosa I, Fioretto BS, Cerinic MM, Manetti M. The Role of Pro-fibrotic Myofibroblasts in Systemic Sclerosis: from Origin to Therapeutic Targeting. Curr Mol Med 2021; 22:209-239. [PMID: 33823766 DOI: 10.2174/0929867328666210325102749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Revised: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc, scleroderma) is a complex connective tissue disorder characterized by multisystem clinical manifestations resulting from immune dysregulation/autoimmunity, vasculopathy and, most notably, progressive fibrosis of the skin and internal organs. In recent years, it has emerged that the main drivers of SSc-related tissue fibrosis are myofibroblasts, a type of mesenchymal cells with both the extracellular matrix-synthesizing features of fibroblasts and the cytoskeletal characteristics of contractile smooth muscle cells. The accumulation and persistent activation of pro-fibrotic myofibroblasts during SSc development and progression result into elevated mechanical stress and reduced matrix plasticity within the affected tissues and may be ascribed to a reduced susceptibility of these cells to pro-apoptotic stimuli, as well as their increased formation from tissue-resident fibroblasts or transition from different cell types. Given the crucial role of myofibroblasts in SSc pathogenesis, finding the way to inhibit myofibroblast differentiation and accumulation by targeting their formation, function and survival may represent an effective approach to hamper the fibrotic process or even halt or reverse established fibrosis. In this review, we discuss the role of myofibroblasts in SSc-related fibrosis, with a special focus on their cellular origin and the signaling pathways implicated in their formation and persistent activation. Furthermore, we provide an overview of potential therapeutic strategies targeting myofibroblasts that may be able to counteract fibrosis in this pathological condition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eloisa Romano
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Florence, Florence. Italy
| | - Irene Rosa
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Florence, Florence. Italy
| | - Bianca Saveria Fioretto
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Florence, Florence. Italy
| | - Marco Matucci Cerinic
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Florence, Florence. Italy
| | - Mirko Manetti
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Anatomy and Histology, University of Florence, Florence. Italy
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Leask A. The hard problem: Mechanotransduction perpetuates the myofibroblast phenotype in scleroderma fibrosis. Wound Repair Regen 2021; 29:582-587. [DOI: 10.1111/wrr.12889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2020] [Revised: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Leask
- College of Dentistry University of Saskatchewan Saskatoon Saskatchewan Canada
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Weng Y, Lieberthal TJ, Zhou VX, Lopez-Ichikawa M, Armas-Phan M, Bond TK, Yoshida MC, Choi WT, Chang TT. Liver epithelial focal adhesion kinase modulates fibrogenesis and hedgehog signaling. JCI Insight 2020; 5:141217. [PMID: 32910808 PMCID: PMC7605528 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.141217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Focal adhesion kinase (FAK) is an important mediator of extracellular matrix-integrin mechano-signal transduction that regulates cell motility, survival, and proliferation. As such, FAK is being investigated as a potential therapeutic target for malignant and fibrotic diseases, and numerous clinical trials of FAK inhibitors are underway. The function of FAK in nonmalignant, nonmotile epithelial cells is not well understood. We previously showed that hepatocytes demonstrated activated FAK near stiff collagen tracts in fibrotic livers. In this study, we examined the role of liver epithelial FAK by inducing fibrotic liver disease in mice with liver epithelial FAK deficiency. We found that mice that lacked FAK in liver epithelial cells developed more severe liver injury and worse fibrosis as compared with controls. Increased fibrosis in liver epithelial FAK-deficient mice was linked to the activation of several profibrotic pathways, including the hedgehog/smoothened pathway. FAK-deficient hepatocytes produced increased Indian hedgehog in a manner dependent on matrix stiffness. Furthermore, expression of the hedgehog receptor, smoothened, was increased in macrophages and biliary cells of hepatocyte-specific FAK-deficient fibrotic livers. These results indicate that liver epithelial FAK has important regulatory roles in the response to liver injury and progression of fibrosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Tammy T Chang
- Department of Surgery.,Liver Center, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Chen Y, Li Q, Tu K, Wang Y, Wang X, Liu D, Chen C, Liu D, Yang R, Qiu W, Kang N. Focal Adhesion Kinase Promotes Hepatic Stellate Cell Activation by Regulating Plasma Membrane Localization of TGFβ Receptor 2. Hepatol Commun 2020; 4:268-283. [PMID: 32025610 PMCID: PMC6996408 DOI: 10.1002/hep4.1452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2019] [Accepted: 11/03/2019] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) induces hepatic stellate cell (HSC) differentiation into tumor-promoting myofibroblast, although underlying mechanism remains incompletely understood. Focal adhesion kinase (FAK) is activated in response to TGFβ stimulation, so it transmits TGFβ stimulus to extracellular signal-regulated kinase and P38 mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling. However, it is unknown whether FAK can, in return, modulate TGFβ receptors. In this study, we tested whether FAK phosphorylated TGFβ receptor 2 (TGFβR2) and regulated TGFβR2 intracellular trafficking in HSCs. The FAKY397F mutant and PF-573,228 were used to inhibit the kinase activity of FAK, the TGFβR2 protein level was quantitated by immunoblotting, and HSC differentiation into myofibroblast was assessed by expression of HSC activation markers, alpha-smooth muscle actin, fibronectin, or connective tissue growth factor. We found that targeting FAK kinase activity suppressed the TGFβR2 protein level, TGFβ1-induced mothers against decapentaplegic homolog phosphorylation, and myofibroblastic activation of HSCs. At the molecular and cellular level, active FAK (phosphorylated FAK at tyrosine 397) bound to TGFβR2 and kept TGFβR2 at the peripheral plasma membrane of HSCs, and it induced TGFβR2 phosphorylation at tyrosine 336. In contrast, targeting FAK or mutating Y336 to F on TGFβR2 led to lysosomal sorting and degradation of TGFβR2. Using RNA sequencing, we identified that the transcripts of 764 TGFβ target genes were influenced by FAK inhibition, and that through FAK, TGFβ1 stimulated HSCs to produce a panel of tumor-promoting factors, including extracellular matrix remodeling proteins, growth factors and cytokines, and immune checkpoint molecule PD-L1. Functionally, targeting FAK inhibited tumor-promoting effects of HSCs in vitro and in a tumor implantation mouse model. Conclusion: FAK targets TGFβR2 to the plasma membrane and protects TGFβR2 from lysosome-mediated degradation, thereby promoting TGFβ-mediated HSC activation. FAK is a target for suppressing HSC activation and the hepatic tumor microenvironment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yunru Chen
- Tumor Microenvironment and MetastasisHormel InstituteUniversity of MinnesotaAustinMN
- Present address:
First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong UniversityXi'anShanxiP. R. China
| | - Qing Li
- Tumor Microenvironment and MetastasisHormel InstituteUniversity of MinnesotaAustinMN
- Present address:
First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong UniversityXi'anShanxiP. R. China
| | - Kangsheng Tu
- Tumor Microenvironment and MetastasisHormel InstituteUniversity of MinnesotaAustinMN
- Present address:
First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong UniversityXi'anShanxiP. R. China
| | - Yuanguo Wang
- Tumor Microenvironment and MetastasisHormel InstituteUniversity of MinnesotaAustinMN
| | - Xianghu Wang
- Tumor Microenvironment and MetastasisHormel InstituteUniversity of MinnesotaAustinMN
| | - Dandan Liu
- Tumor Microenvironment and MetastasisHormel InstituteUniversity of MinnesotaAustinMN
| | - Chen Chen
- Tumor Microenvironment and MetastasisHormel InstituteUniversity of MinnesotaAustinMN
- Present address:
First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong UniversityXi'anShanxiP. R. China
| | - Donglian Liu
- Tumor Microenvironment and MetastasisHormel InstituteUniversity of MinnesotaAustinMN
- Present address:
Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical UniversityQingyuanGuangdongP. R. China
| | - Rendong Yang
- Computational Cancer GenomicsHormel InstituteUniversity of MinnesotaAustinMN
| | - Wei Qiu
- Department of Surgery and Cancer BiologyLoyola University Chicago Stritch School of MedicineMaywoodIL
| | - Ningling Kang
- Tumor Microenvironment and MetastasisHormel InstituteUniversity of MinnesotaAustinMN
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Targeting Fibrotic Signaling: A Review of Current Literature and Identification of Future Therapeutic Targets to Improve Wound Healing. Ann Plast Surg 2019; 83:e92-e95. [PMID: 31246672 DOI: 10.1097/sap.0000000000001955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Fibrosis is a consequence of aberrant wound healing processes that can be debilitating for patients and often are associated with highly morbid disease processes. Myofibroblasts play an important role in determining an appropriate physiologic response to tissue injury or an excessive response leading to fibrosis. Specifically, "supermature" focal adhesions, α-smooth muscle actin, and the myocardin-related transcription factor/serum response factor pathway likely play a significant role in the differentiation and survival of myofibroblasts in fibrotic lesions. Thus, targeting each of these and disrupting their functioning could lead to the development of therapeutic options for patients suffering from fibrosis and other sequelae of dysregulated wound healing. In this paper, we review the current literature concerning the roles of these three constituents of fibrotic signaling pathways, work already done in attempting to regulate these processes, and discuss the potential of these biomolecular constituents as therapeutic targets in future translational research.
Collapse
|
12
|
van Caam A, Vonk M, van den Hoogen F, van Lent P, van der Kraan P. Unraveling SSc Pathophysiology; The Myofibroblast. Front Immunol 2018; 9:2452. [PMID: 30483246 PMCID: PMC6242950 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.02452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2018] [Accepted: 10/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a severe auto-immune disease, characterized by vasculopathy and fibrosis of connective tissues. SSc has a high morbidity and mortality and unfortunately no disease modifying therapy is currently available. A key cell in the pathophysiology of SSc is the myofibroblast. Myofibroblasts are fibroblasts with contractile properties that produce a large amount of pro-fibrotic extracellular matrix molecules such as collagen type I. In this narrative review we will discuss the presence, formation, and role of myofibroblasts in SSc, and how these processes are stimulated and mediated by cells of the (innate) immune system such as mast cells and T helper 2 lymphocytes. Furthermore, current novel therapeutic approaches to target myofibroblasts will be highlighted for future perspective.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arjan van Caam
- Experimental Rheumatology, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Madelon Vonk
- Department of Rheumatology, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | | | - Peter van Lent
- Experimental Rheumatology, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Wermuth PJ, Jimenez SA. Abrogation of transforming growth factor-β-induced tissue fibrosis in TBRIcaCol1a2Cre transgenic mice by the second generation tyrosine kinase inhibitor SKI-606 (Bosutinib). PLoS One 2018; 13:e0196559. [PMID: 29718973 PMCID: PMC5931634 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0196559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2017] [Accepted: 04/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of Systemic Sclerosis (SSc) and other fibrotic disorders. TGF-β-mediated c-Abl and Src kinase activation induces strong profibrotic cascade signaling. The purpose of this study was to test in vivo the antifibrotic activity of Bosutinib (SKI-606), a second generation c-Abl and Src kinase inhibitor, on TGF-β induced cutaneous and pulmonary fibrosis. For this purpose, we employed the TBRIcaCol1a2Cre transgenic mice expressing an inducible constitutively active TGF-β receptor 1 constitutively activated by Col1a promoter-mediated Cre recombinase. The mice were treated parenterally with 2.5, 5.0 or 10.0 mg/kg/day of Bosutinib for 42 days. Skin and lungs from control and Bosutinib-treated mice (n = 6 per group) were assessed by histopathology, measurement of tissue hydroxyproline content, PCR analysis of tissue fibrosis associated gene expression, and evidence of myofibroblast activation. Mice with constitutive TGF-β-1 signaling displayed severe cutaneous and pulmonary fibrosis. Bosutinib administration decreased collagen deposition and hydroxyproline content in the dermis and lungs in a dose-dependent manner. Bosutinib also reversed the marked increase in profibrotic and myofibroblast activation-associated gene expression. These results demonstrate that constitutive TGF-β-1-signaling-induced cutaneous and pulmonary fibrosis were abrogated in a dose-related manner following parenteral administration of the c-Abl and Src tyrosine kinase inhibitor, Bosutinib. These results indicate that Bosutinib may be a potential therapeutic agent for tissue fibrosis in SSc and other fibroproliferative disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peter J Wermuth
- Jefferson Institute of Molecular Medicine and Scleroderma Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States of America
| | - Sergio A Jimenez
- Jefferson Institute of Molecular Medicine and Scleroderma Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Organ fibrosis is a lethal component of scleroderma. The hallmark of scleroderma fibrosis is extensive extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition by activated myofibroblasts, specialized hyper-contractile cells that promote ECM remodeling and matrix stiffening. The purpose of this review is to discuss novel mechanistic insight into myofibroblast activation in scleroderma. RECENT FINDINGS Matrix stiffness, traditionally viewed as an end point of organ fibrosis, is now recognized as a critical regulator of tissue fibrogenesis that hijacks the normal physiologic wound-healing program to promote organ fibrosis. Here, we discuss how matrix stiffness orchestrates fibrosis by controlling three fundamental pro-fibrotic mechanisms: (a) mechanoactivation of myofibroblasts, (b) integrin-mediated latent transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1) activation, and (c) activation of non-canonical TGF-β1 signaling pathways. We also summarize novel therapeutic targets for anti-fibrotic therapy based on the mechanobiology of scleroderma. Future research on mechanobiology of scleroderma may lead to important clinical applications such as improved diagnosis and treatment of patients with scleroderma and other fibrotic-related diseases.
Collapse
|
15
|
Lampi MC, Reinhart-King CA. Targeting extracellular matrix stiffness to attenuate disease: From molecular mechanisms to clinical trials. Sci Transl Med 2018; 10:10/422/eaao0475. [DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.aao0475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 274] [Impact Index Per Article: 45.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2017] [Accepted: 12/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Tissues stiffen during aging and during the pathological progression of cancer, fibrosis, and cardiovascular disease. Extracellular matrix stiffness is emerging as a prominent mechanical cue that precedes disease and drives its progression by altering cellular behaviors. Targeting extracellular matrix mechanics, by preventing or reversing tissue stiffening or interrupting the cellular response, is a therapeutic approach with clinical potential. Major drivers of changes to the mechanical properties of the extracellular matrix include phenotypically converted myofibroblasts, transforming growth factor β (TGFβ), and matrix cross-linking. Potential pharmacological interventions to overcome extracellular matrix stiffening are emerging clinically. Aside from targeting stiffening directly, alternative approaches to mitigate the effects of increased matrix stiffness aim to identify and inhibit the downstream cellular response to matrix stiffness. Therapeutic interventions that target tissue stiffening are discussed in the context of their limitations, preclinical drug development efforts, and clinical trials.
Collapse
|
16
|
Sava P, Ramanathan A, Dobronyi A, Peng X, Sun H, Ledesma-Mendoza A, Herzog EL, Gonzalez AL. Human pericytes adopt myofibroblast properties in the microenvironment of the IPF lung. JCI Insight 2017; 2:96352. [PMID: 29263297 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.96352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2017] [Accepted: 10/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a fatal disease of unknown etiology characterized by a compositionally and mechanically altered extracellular matrix. Poor understanding of the origin of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) expressing myofibroblasts has hindered curative therapies. Though proposed as a source of myofibroblasts in mammalian tissues, identification of microvascular pericytes (PC) as contributors to α-SMA-expressing populations in human IPF and the mechanisms driving this accumulation remain unexplored. Here, we demonstrate enhanced detection of α-SMA+ cells coexpressing the PC marker neural/glial antigen 2 in the human IPF lung. Isolated human PC cultured on decellularized IPF lung matrices adopt expression of α-SMA, demonstrating that these cells undergo phenotypic transition in response to direct contact with the extracellular matrix (ECM) of the fibrotic human lung. Using potentially novel human lung-conjugated hydrogels with tunable mechanical properties, we decoupled PC responses to matrix composition and stiffness to show that α-SMA+ PC accumulate in a mechanosensitive manner independent of matrix composition. PC activated with TGF-β1 remodel the normal lung matrix, increasing tissue stiffness to facilitate the emergence of α-SMA+ PC via MKL-1/MTRFA mechanotranduction. Nintedanib, a tyrosine-kinase inhibitor approved for IPF treatment, restores the elastic modulus of fibrotic lung matrices to reverse the α-SMA+ phenotype. This work furthers our understanding of the role that microvascular PC play in the evolution of IPF, describes the creation of an ex vivo platform that advances the study of fibrosis, and presents a potentially novel mode of action for a commonly used antifibrotic therapy that has great relevance for human disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Parid Sava
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Anand Ramanathan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Amelia Dobronyi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Xueyan Peng
- Section of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Huanxing Sun
- Section of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | | | - Erica L Herzog
- Section of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Anjelica L Gonzalez
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Lagares D, Santos A, Grasberger PE, Liu F, Probst CK, Rahimi RA, Sakai N, Kuehl T, Ryan J, Bhola P, Montero J, Kapoor M, Baron M, Varelas X, Tschumperlin DJ, Letai A, Tager AM. Targeted apoptosis of myofibroblasts with the BH3 mimetic ABT-263 reverses established fibrosis. Sci Transl Med 2017; 9:eaal3765. [PMID: 29237758 PMCID: PMC8520471 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.aal3765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 144] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2016] [Revised: 07/28/2017] [Accepted: 10/30/2017] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
Persistent myofibroblast activation distinguishes pathological fibrosis from physiological wound healing, suggesting that therapies selectively inducing myofibroblast apoptosis could prevent progression and potentially reverse established fibrosis in diseases such as scleroderma, a heterogeneous autoimmune disease characterized by multiorgan fibrosis. We demonstrate that fibroblast-to-myofibroblast differentiation driven by matrix stiffness increases the mitochondrial priming (proximity to the apoptotic threshold) of these activated cells. Mitochondria in activated myofibroblasts, but not quiescent fibroblasts, are primed by death signals such as the proapoptotic BH3-only protein BIM, which creates a requirement for tonic expression of the antiapoptotic protein BCL-XL to sequester BIM and ensure myofibroblast survival. Myofibroblasts become particularly susceptible to apoptosis induced by "BH3 mimetic" drugs inhibiting BCL-XL such as ABT-263. ABT-263 displaces BCL-XL binding to BIM, allowing BIM to activate apoptosis on stiffness-primed myofibroblasts. Therapeutic blockade of BCL-XL with ABT-263 (navitoclax) effectively treats established fibrosis in a mouse model of scleroderma dermal fibrosis by inducing myofibroblast apoptosis. Using a BH3 profiling assay to assess mitochondrial priming in dermal fibroblasts derived from patients with scleroderma, we demonstrate that the extent of apoptosis induced by BH3 mimetic drugs correlates with the extent of their mitochondrial priming, indicating that BH3 profiling could predict apoptotic responses of fibroblasts to BH3 mimetic drugs in patients with scleroderma. Together, our findings elucidate the potential efficacy of targeting myofibroblast antiapoptotic proteins with BH3 mimetic drugs in scleroderma and other fibrotic diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David Lagares
- Fibrosis Research Center and Center for Immunology and Inflammatory Diseases, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
| | - Alba Santos
- Fibrosis Research Center and Center for Immunology and Inflammatory Diseases, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Paula E Grasberger
- Fibrosis Research Center and Center for Immunology and Inflammatory Diseases, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Fei Liu
- Molecular and Integrative Physiological Sciences Program, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Clemens K Probst
- Fibrosis Research Center and Center for Immunology and Inflammatory Diseases, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Rod A Rahimi
- Fibrosis Research Center and Center for Immunology and Inflammatory Diseases, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Norihiko Sakai
- Fibrosis Research Center and Center for Immunology and Inflammatory Diseases, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
- Division of Nephrology and Division of Blood Purification, Kanazawa University Hospital, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Tobias Kuehl
- Fibrosis Research Center and Center for Immunology and Inflammatory Diseases, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Jeremy Ryan
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Patrick Bhola
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Joan Montero
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Mohit Kapoor
- Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network and Department of Surgery and Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Murray Baron
- Jewish General Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Xaralabos Varelas
- Department of Biochemistry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Daniel J Tschumperlin
- Molecular and Integrative Physiological Sciences Program, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Anthony Letai
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Andrew M Tager
- Fibrosis Research Center and Center for Immunology and Inflammatory Diseases, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Gerarduzzi C, Kumar RK, Trivedi P, Ajay AK, Iyer A, Boswell S, Hutchinson JN, Waikar SS, Vaidya VS. Silencing SMOC2 ameliorates kidney fibrosis by inhibiting fibroblast to myofibroblast transformation. JCI Insight 2017; 2:90299. [PMID: 28422762 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.90299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2016] [Accepted: 03/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Secreted modular calcium-binding protein 2 (SMOC2) belongs to the secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine (SPARC) family of matricellular proteins whose members are known to modulate cell-matrix interactions. We report that SMOC2 is upregulated in the kidney tubular epithelial cells of mice and humans following fibrosis. Using genetically manipulated mice with SMOC2 overexpression or knockdown, we show that SMOC2 is critically involved in the progression of kidney fibrosis. Mechanistically, we found that SMOC2 activates a fibroblast-to-myofibroblast transition (FMT) to stimulate stress fiber formation, proliferation, migration, and extracellular matrix production. Furthermore, we demonstrate that targeting SMOC2 by siRNA results in attenuation of TGFβ1-mediated FMT in vitro and an amelioration of kidney fibrosis in mice. These findings implicate that SMOC2 is a key signaling molecule in the pathological secretome of a damaged kidney and targeting SMOC2 offers a therapeutic strategy for inhibiting FMT-mediated kidney fibrosis - an unmet medical need.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Casimiro Gerarduzzi
- Renal Division, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital (BWH), Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ramya K Kumar
- Renal Division, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital (BWH), Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Priyanka Trivedi
- Renal Division, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital (BWH), Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Amrendra K Ajay
- Renal Division, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital (BWH), Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ashwin Iyer
- Renal Division, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital (BWH), Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Sarah Boswell
- Harvard Program in Therapeutic Sciences, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Sushrut S Waikar
- Renal Division, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital (BWH), Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Vishal S Vaidya
- Renal Division, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital (BWH), Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Harvard Program in Therapeutic Sciences, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Abstract
Interstitial lung disease (ILD) encompasses a large and diverse group of pathological conditions that share similar clinical, radiological and pathological manifestations, despite potentially having quite different aetiologies and comorbidities. Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) represents probably the most aggressive form of ILD and systemic sclerosis is a multiorgan fibrotic disease frequently associated with ILD. Although the aetiology of these disorders remains unknown, in this review we analyse the pathogenic mechanisms by cell of interest (fibroblast, fibrocyte, myofibroblast, endothelial and alveolar epithelial cells and immune competent cells). New insights into the complex cellular contributions and interactions will be provided, comparing the role of cell subsets in the pathogenesis of IPF and systemic sclerosis. Distinct cell populations contribute to the complex pathogenesis of IPF and systemic sclerosis-associated ILDhttp://ow.ly/AjFaz
Collapse
|
20
|
|
21
|
Maier C, Distler JHW, Beyer C. Deciphering the pro-fibrotic phenotype of fibroblasts in systemic sclerosis. Exp Dermatol 2014; 23:99-100. [PMID: 24476007 DOI: 10.1111/exd.12237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/04/2013] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
LeRoy's seminal work on the phenotypic features of scleroderma fibroblasts has been directing fibrosis research in the field of systemic sclerosis (SSc, scleroderma) for the past 30 years. His principal experiment, to culture skin fibroblasts from patients with SSc and study their pro-fibrotic phenotype in comparison with skin fibroblasts from healthy individuals, has been used by most basic and translational fibrosis studies in SSc. LeRoy's findings have revolutionized our understanding of the disease pathogenesis and guided the development of novel antifibrotic therapies towards fibroblast-specific approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christiane Maier
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 and Institute for Clinical Immunology, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Leask A. Focal Adhesion Kinase: A Key Mediator of Transforming Growth Factor Beta Signaling in Fibroblasts. Adv Wound Care (New Rochelle) 2013; 2:247-249. [PMID: 24527346 DOI: 10.1089/wound.2012.0363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2012] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
SIGNIFICANCE There is no effective drug therapy for scarring and fibrotic disease. The cytokine transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) promotes tissue repair, but its excessive action can lead to over exuberant scarring and fibrotic disease. However, owing to the multifunctional nature of TGF-β, broad targeting of the canonical Smad-TGF-β signaling pathway in vivo is likely to have unintended, deleterious consequences. RECENT ADVANCES (1) The myofibroblast is the essential cell type that mediates tissue repair and fibrosis. (2) TGF-β is an essential contributor to myofibroblast differentiation and activity. (3) TGF-β selectively promotes tissue repair and fibrosis via the noncanonical focal adhesion kinase (FAK) pathway; FAK mediates myofibroblast differentiation, and hence may represent a novel intervention point for drugs treating fibrotic disease. CRITICAL ISSUES Excessive scarring (e.g., in hypertrophic scars, keloids, and scleroderma) is characterized by enhanced TGF-β signaling and is a major clinical problem. Drugs that selectively and effectively control the profibrotic action of TGF-β is therefore of clinical relevance. FUTURE DIRECTIONS FAK inhibition may represent a novel therapy for scarring disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Leask
- Departments of Dentistry and Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Van De Water L, Varney S, Tomasek JJ. Mechanoregulation of the Myofibroblast in Wound Contraction, Scarring, and Fibrosis: Opportunities for New Therapeutic Intervention. Adv Wound Care (New Rochelle) 2013; 2:122-141. [PMID: 24527336 DOI: 10.1089/wound.2012.0393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 164] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2013] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
SIGNIFICANCE Myofibroblasts are responsible for wound closure that occurs in healed acute wounds. However, their actions can result in disfiguring scar contractures, compromised organ function, and a tumor promoting stroma. Understanding the mechanisms regulating their contractile machinery, gene expression, and lifespan is essential to develop new therapies to control their function. RECENT ADVANCES Mechanical stress and transforming growth factor beta-1 (TGF-β1) regulate myofibroblast differentiation from mesenchymal progenitors. As these precursor cells differentiate, they assemble a contractile apparatus to generate the force used to contract wounds. The mechanisms by which mechanical stress promote expression of contractile genes through the TGF-β1 and serum response factor pathways and offer therapeutic targets to limit myofibroblast function are being elucidated. CRITICAL ISSUES Emerging evidence suggests that the integration of mechanical cues with intracellular signaling pathways is critical to myofibroblast function via its effects on gene expression, cellular contraction, and paracrine signaling with neighboring cells. In addition, while apoptosis is clearly one pathway that can limit myofibroblast lifespan, recent data suggest that pathogenic myofibroblasts can become senescent and adopt a more beneficial phenotype, or may revert to a quiescent state, thereby limiting their function. FUTURE DIRECTIONS Given the important role that myofibroblasts play in pathologies as disparate as cutaneous scarring, organ fibrosis, and tumor progression, knowledge gained in the areas of intracellular signaling networks, mechanical signal transduction, extracellular matrix biology, and cell fate will support efforts to develop new therapies with a wide impact.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Scott Varney
- Center for Cell Biology and Cancer Research, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York
| | - James J. Tomasek
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Liu T, Zhang J, Zhang J, Mu X, Su H, Hu X, Liu W, Zhao E, Li W. RNA interference against platelet-derived growth factor receptor α mRNA inhibits fibroblast transdifferentiation in skin lesions of patients with systemic sclerosis. PLoS One 2013; 8:e60414. [PMID: 23577108 PMCID: PMC3618422 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0060414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2012] [Accepted: 02/26/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To down-regulate expression of mRNA for the platelet-derived growth factor receptor (PDGFR)-α, block the signalling pathway of PDGF and its receptor, and study their influence on fibroblast transdifferentiation to myofibroblasts in systemic sclerosis (SSc). Methods Fibroblasts from skin lesions of SSc patients and health adult controls were cultured in vitro, and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) expression was determined by immunocytochemistry. Both groups of fibroblasts were stimulated with PDGF-AA, transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1), and costimulated with PDGF-AA and TGF-β1, then PDGFR-α and α-SMA mRNA and protein expression were detected with RT-PCR and WB respectively. Three pairs of siRNAs targeting different PDGFR-α mRNA sequences were synthesized for RNAi. SSc and control fibroblasts were transfected with PDGFR-α siRNA; stimulated with PDGF-AA; and assessed for PDGFR-α and α-SMA mRNA and protein expression. Results Although the fibroblasts from both groups had similar morphology, the SSc skin lesions had significantly more myofibroblasts than control skin lesions. PDGF-AA stimulation, TGF-β1 stimulation, and costimulation significantly up-regulated PDGFR-α and α-SMA mRNA and protein expression in SSc fibroblasts compared to control (P<0.05), and costimulation had the strongest effects (P<0.05). All three pairs of siRNAs suppressed PDGFR-α mRNA and protein expression (P<0.05), but siRNA1495 had the highest gene-silencing efficiency (P<0.05). PDGFR-α siRNA attenuated the effects of PDGF-AA through up-regulating PDGFR-α and α-SMA mRNA and protein expression and inhibiting fibroblast transdifferentiation to myofibroblasts in SSc (P<0.05). Conclusions PDGFR-α over-expression in SSc fibroblasts bound PDGF-AA more efficiently and promoted fibroblast transdifferentiation, which was enhanced by TGF-β1. PDGFR-α siRNA down-regulated PDGFR-α expression, blocked binding to PDGF-AA, and inhibited fibroblast transdifferentiation to myofibroblasts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tong Liu
- Department of Dermatology, First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xìan City, Shaanxi Province, China.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
FAK-related nonkinase is a multifunctional negative regulator of pulmonary fibrosis. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2013; 182:1572-84. [PMID: 23499373 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2013.01.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2012] [Revised: 12/07/2012] [Accepted: 01/14/2013] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive fibrotic lung disease whose underlying molecular mechanisms are largely unknown. Herein, we show that focal adhesion kinase-related nonkinase (FRNK) plays a key role in limiting the development of lung fibrosis. Loss of FRNK function in vivo leads to increased lung fibrosis in an experimental mouse model. The increase in lung fibrosis is confirmed at the histological, biochemical, and physiological levels. Concordantly, loss of FRNK function results in increased fibroblast migration and myofibroblast differentiation and activation of signaling proteins that drive these phenotypes. FRNK-deficient murine lung fibroblasts also have an increased capacity to produce and contract matrix proteins. Restoration of FRNK expression in vivo and in vitro reverses these profibrotic phenotypes. These data demonstrate the multiple antifibrotic actions of FRNK. More important, FRNK expression is down-regulated in human IPF, and down-regulation of FRNK in normal human lung fibroblasts recapitulates the profibrotic phenotype seen in FRNK-deficient cells. The effect of loss and gain of FRNK in the experimental model, when taken together with its down-regulation in human IPF, suggests that FRNK acts as an endogenous negative regulator of lung fibrosis by repressing multiple profibrotic responses.
Collapse
|
26
|
|
27
|
Shi-wen X, Thompson K, Khan K, Liu S, Murphy-Marshman H, Baron M, Denton CP, Leask A, Abraham DJ. Focal adhesion kinase and reactive oxygen species contribute to the persistent fibrotic phenotype of lesional scleroderma fibroblasts. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2012; 51:2146-54. [PMID: 22977060 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/kes234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Fibrotic diseases such as SSc (systemic sclerosis, scleroderma) are characterized by the abnormal presence of the myofibroblast, a specialized type of fibroblast that overexpresses the highly contractile protein α-smooth muscle actin. Myofibroblasts display excessive adhesive properties and hence exert a potent mechanical force. We aim to identify the precise contribution of adhesive signalling, which requires integrin-mediated activation of focal adhesion kinase (FAK)/src, to fibrogenic gene expression in normal and fibrotic SSc fibroblasts. METHODS We subject either FAK wild-type and knockout fibroblasts or normal and SSc fibroblasts treated with FAK/src inhibitors to real-time polymerase chain, western blot, cell migration and collagen gel contraction analyses. RESULTS FAK operates downstream of both integrin β1 and reactive oxygen species (ROS) to promote the expression of genes involved in matrix production and remodelling, including CCN2, α-smooth muscle actin and type I collagen. Blocking either FAK/src with PP2 or ROS with N-acetyl cysteine alleviates the elevated contractile and migratory capability of lesional SSc dermal fibroblasts. CONCLUSIONS Excessive adhesive signalling is intimately involved with the fibrotic phenotype of lesional SSc fibroblasts; blocking adhesive signalling or ROS generation may be beneficial in controlling the fibrosis observed in SSc.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xu Shi-wen
- Centre for Rheumatology, University College London (Royal Free Campus), London, UK
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Tolg C, Hamilton SR, Zalinska E, McCulloch L, Amin R, Akentieva N, Winnik F, Savani R, Bagli DJ, Luyt LG, Cowman MK, McCarthy JB, Turley EA. A RHAMM mimetic peptide blocks hyaluronan signaling and reduces inflammation and fibrogenesis in excisional skin wounds. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2012; 181:1250-70. [PMID: 22889846 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2012.06.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2011] [Revised: 06/14/2012] [Accepted: 06/27/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Hyaluronan is activated by fragmentation and controls inflammation and fibroplasia during wound repair and diseases (eg, cancer). Hyaluronan-binding peptides were identified that modify fibrogenesis during skin wound repair. Peptides were selected from 7- to 15mer phage display libraries by panning with hyaluronan-Sepharose beads and assayed for their ability to block fibroblast migration in response to hyaluronan oligosaccharides (10 kDa). A 15mer peptide (P15-1), with homology to receptor for hyaluronan mediated motility (RHAMM) hyaluronan binding sequences, was the most effective inhibitor. P15-1 bound to 10-kDa hyaluronan with an affinity of K(d) = 10(-7) and appeared to specifically mimic RHAMM since it significantly reduced binding of hyaluronan oligosaccharides to recombinant RHAMM but not to recombinant CD44 or TLR2,4, and altered wound repair in wild-type but not RHAMM(-/-) mice. One topical application of P15-1 to full-thickness excisional rat wounds significantly reduced wound macrophage number, fibroblast number, and blood vessel density compared to scrambled, negative control peptides. Wound collagen 1, transforming growth factor β-1, and α-smooth muscle actin were reduced, whereas tenascin C was increased, suggesting that P15-1 promoted a form of scarless healing. Signaling/microarray analyses showed that P15-1 blocks RHAMM-regulated focal adhesion kinase pathways in fibroblasts. These results identify a new class of reagents that attenuate proinflammatory, fibrotic repair by blocking hyaluronan oligosaccharide signaling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cornelia Tolg
- Cancer Research Laboratory Program, Lawson Health Research Institute and London Regional Cancer Program, London Health Sciences Center, London, Ontario, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Niu S, Wang Z, Ge D, Zhang G, Li Y. Prediction of functional phosphorylation sites by incorporating evolutionary information. Protein Cell 2012; 3:675-90. [PMID: 22802047 DOI: 10.1007/s13238-012-2048-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2012] [Accepted: 06/27/2012] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Protein phosphorylation is a ubiquitous protein post-translational modification, which plays an important role in cellular signaling systems underlying various physiological and pathological processes. Current in silico methods mainly focused on the prediction of phosphorylation sites, but rare methods considered whether a phosphorylation site is functional or not. Since functional phosphorylation sites are more valuable for further experimental research and a proportion of phosphorylation sites have no direct functional effects, the prediction of functional phosphorylation sites is quite necessary for this research area. Previous studies have shown that functional phosphorylation sites are more conserved than non-functional phosphorylation sites in evolution. Thus, in our method, we developed a web server by integrating existing phosphorylation site prediction methods, as well as both absolute and relative evolutionary conservation scores to predict the most likely functional phosphorylation sites. Using our method, we predicted the most likely functional sites of the human, rat and mouse proteomes and built a database for the predicted sites. By the analysis of overall prediction results, we demonstrated that protein phosphorylation plays an important role in all the enriched KEGG pathways. By the analysis of protein-specific prediction results, we demonstrated the usefulness of our method for individual protein studies. Our method would help to characterize the most likely functional phosphorylation sites for further studies in this research area.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shen Niu
- Key Laboratory of Systems Biology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Lagares D, Busnadiego O, García-Fernández RA, Kapoor M, Liu S, Carter DE, Abraham D, Shi-Wen X, Carreira P, Fontaine BA, Shea BS, Tager AM, Leask A, Lamas S, Rodríguez-Pascual F. Inhibition of focal adhesion kinase prevents experimental lung fibrosis and myofibroblast formation. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012; 64:1653-64. [PMID: 22492165 DOI: 10.1002/art.33482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Enhanced adhesive signaling, including activation of focal adhesion kinase (FAK), is a hallmark of fibroblasts from lung fibrosis patients, and FAK has therefore been hypothesized to be a key mediator of this disease. This study was undertaken to characterize the contribution of FAK to the development of pulmonary fibrosis both in vivo and in vitro. METHODS FAK expression and activity were analyzed in lung tissue samples from lung fibrosis patients by immunohistochemistry. Mice orally treated with the FAK inhibitor PF-562,271, or with small interfering RNA (siRNA)-mediated silencing of FAK were exposed to intratracheally instilled bleomycin to induce lung fibrosis, and lungs were harvested for histologic and biochemical analysis. Using endothelin 1 (ET-1) as a stimulus, cell adhesion and contraction, as well as profibrotic gene expression, were studied in fibroblasts isolated from wild-type and FAK-deficient mouse embryos. ET-1-mediated FAK activation and gene expression were studied in primary mouse lung fibroblasts, as well as in wild-type and β1 integrin-deficient mouse fibroblasts. RESULTS FAK expression and activity were up-regulated in fibroblast foci and remodeled vessels from lung fibrosis patients. Pharmacologic or siRNA-mediated targeting of FAK resulted in marked abrogation of bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis in mice. Loss of FAK impaired the acquisition of a profibrotic phenotype in response to ET-1. Profibrotic gene expression leading to myofibroblast differentiation required cell adhesion, and was driven by JNK activation through β1 integrin/FAK signaling. CONCLUSION These results implicate FAK as a central mediator of fibrogenesis, and highlight this kinase as a potential therapeutic target in fibrotic diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David Lagares
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, CSIC and Fundación Renal Iñigo Alvarez de Toledo, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Leask A. Getting out of a sticky situation: targeting the myofibroblast in scleroderma. Open Rheumatol J 2012; 6:163-9. [PMID: 22802915 PMCID: PMC3396281 DOI: 10.2174/1874312901206010163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2012] [Revised: 03/27/2012] [Accepted: 04/04/2012] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
There is no treatment for the fibrosis observed in scleroderma (systemic sclerosis, SSc). Although genome-wide expression profiling has suggested that differences in gene expression patters between non-lesional and lesional skin are minimal, phenotypically these areas of tissue are quite different. In fact, lesional areas of scleroderma patients can be distinguished by the presence of a differentiated form of fibroblast, termed the myofibroblast. This cell type expresses the highly contractile protein α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA). Fibroblasts isolated from SSc lesions excessively synthesize, adhere to and contract extracellular matrix (ECM) and display activated adhesive signaling pathways. Strategies aimed at blocking myofibroblast differentiation, persistence and activity are therefore likely to be useful in alleviating the fibrosis in scleroderma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Leask
- Departments of Dentistry and Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, Dental Sciences Building, London, ON, N6A 5C1, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Hinz B, Phan SH, Thannickal VJ, Prunotto M, Desmoulière A, Varga J, De Wever O, Mareel M, Gabbiani G. Recent developments in myofibroblast biology: paradigms for connective tissue remodeling. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2012; 180:1340-55. [PMID: 22387320 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2012.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 929] [Impact Index Per Article: 77.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/19/2012] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The discovery of the myofibroblast has opened new perspectives for the comprehension of the biological mechanisms involved in wound healing and fibrotic diseases. In recent years, many advances have been made in understanding important aspects of myofibroblast basic biological characteristics. This review summarizes such advances in several fields, such as the following: i) force production by the myofibroblast and mechanisms of connective tissue remodeling; ii) factors controlling the expression of α-smooth muscle actin, the most used marker of myofibroblastic phenotype and, more important, involved in force generation by the myofibroblast; and iii) factors affecting genesis of the myofibroblast and its differentiation from precursor cells, in particular epigenetic factors, such as DNA methylation, microRNAs, and histone modification. We also review the origin and the specific features of the myofibroblast in diverse fibrotic lesions, such as systemic sclerosis; kidney, liver, and lung fibrosis; and the stromal reaction to certain epithelial tumors. Finally, we summarize the emerging strategies for influencing myofibroblast behavior in vitro and in vivo, with the ultimate goal of an effective therapeutic approach for myofibroblast-dependent diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Boris Hinz
- Laboratory of Tissue Repair and Regeneration, Matrix Dynamics Group, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Hong S, Lee JB, Iizuka Y, Song YK, Seong GJ, Han SH. The role of focal adhesion kinase in the TGF-β-induced myofibroblast transdifferentiation of human Tenon's fibroblasts. KOREAN JOURNAL OF OPHTHALMOLOGY 2012; 26:45-8. [PMID: 22323885 PMCID: PMC3268168 DOI: 10.3341/kjo.2012.26.1.45] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2010] [Accepted: 01/01/2011] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To investigate the role of focal adhesion kinase (FAK) in transforming growth factor (TGF)-β-induced myofibroblast transdifferentiation of human Tenon's fibroblasts. Methods Primary cultured human Tenon's fibroblasts were exposed to TGF-β1 for up to 48 hours. The mRNA levels of FAK, α smooth muscle actin (αSMA), and β-actin were determined by quantitative real time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. The protein levels of collagen type I, FAK, phospho-FAK, αSMA, and β-actin were determined by Western immunoblots. After the small interfering RNA targeting FAK (siRNAFAK) molecules were delivered into the cells, the expressions of αSMA proteins were determined by Western immunoblots. Results In human Tenon's fibroblasts, TGF-β1 significantly increased the mRNA and protein expressions of αSMA. However, when the action of FAK was inhibited using siRNAFAK, the TGF-β1-induced expression of αSMA was attenuated. Conclusions Our data suggest that FAK may be associated with the TGF-β1-induced transdifferentiation of human Tenon's fibroblasts to myofibroblasts, which is the essential step of subconjunctival fibrosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samin Hong
- Institute of Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
Usategui A, del Rey MJ, Pablos JL. Fibroblast abnormalities in the pathogenesis of systemic sclerosis. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2011; 7:491-8. [PMID: 21790292 DOI: 10.1586/eci.11.39] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a chronic systemic disease characterized by autoimmunity, vascular lesions and progressive fibrosis. The fibrotic component is dominant in SSc compared with other vascular or autoimmune diseases and determines its prognosis and therapeutic refractoriness. Fibroblasts are responsible for abnormal extracellular matrix accumulation. Studies in cultured SSc skin fibroblasts have facilitated the identification of potential pathways involved in their profibrotic phenotype. Profibrotic fibroblasts characterized by abnormal growth and extracellular matrix synthesis may differentiate or expand from normal resident fibroblasts. Recruitment of bone marrow-derived progenitors and transdifferentiation of different cell lineages might also be involved. Multiple factors and signaling pathways appear to be involved in the development or persistence of the SSc fibroblast phenotype. Although their relative relevance and interplay are unclear, aberrant TGF-β signaling seems pivotal and constitutes the best characterized therapeutic target.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alicia Usategui
- Instituto de Investigación Hospital 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
35
|
Apoptosis modulation as a promising target for treatment of systemic sclerosis. Int J Rheumatol 2011; 2011:495792. [PMID: 21912551 PMCID: PMC3170778 DOI: 10.1155/2011/495792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2011] [Revised: 07/06/2011] [Accepted: 07/06/2011] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Diffuse systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a fatal autoimmune disease characterized by an excessive ECM deposition inducing a loss of function of skin and internal organs. Apoptosis is a key mechanism involved in all the stages of the disease: vascular damage, immune dysfunction, and fibrosis. The purpose of this paper is to gather new findings in apoptosis related to SSc, to highlight relations between apoptosis and fibrosis, and to identify new therapeutic targets.
Collapse
|
36
|
Chabaud S, Corriveau MP, Grodzicky T, Senécal JL, Chartier S, Raymond Y, Moulin VJ. Decreased secretion of MMP by non-lesional late-stage scleroderma fibroblasts after selection via activation of the apoptotic fas-pathway. J Cell Physiol 2011; 226:1907-14. [DOI: 10.1002/jcp.22520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
|
37
|
Kulkarni AA, Thatcher TH, Olsen KC, Maggirwar SB, Phipps RP, Sime PJ. PPAR-γ ligands repress TGFβ-induced myofibroblast differentiation by targeting the PI3K/Akt pathway: implications for therapy of fibrosis. PLoS One 2011; 6:e15909. [PMID: 21253589 PMCID: PMC3017065 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0015909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 157] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2010] [Accepted: 11/26/2010] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) induced differentiation of human lung fibroblasts to myofibroblasts is a key event in the pathogenesis of pulmonary fibrosis. Although the typical TGFβ signaling pathway involves the Smad family of transcription factors, we have previously reported that peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPAR-γ) ligands inhibit TGFβ-mediated differentiation of human lung fibroblasts to myofibroblasts via a Smad-independent pathway. TGFβ also activates the phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/Akt) pathway leading to phosphorylation of AktS473. Here, we report that PPAR-γ ligands, 2-cyano-3,12-dioxooleana-1,9-dien-28-oic acid (CDDO) and 15-deoxy-(12,14)-15d-prostaglandin J2 (15d-PGJ2), inhibit human myofibroblast differentiation of normal and idiopathic pulmonary fibrotic (IPF) fibroblasts, by blocking Akt phosphorylation at Ser473 by a PPAR-γ-independent mechanism. The PI3K inhibitor LY294002 and a dominant-negative inactive kinase-domain mutant of Akt both inhibited TGFβ-stimulated myofibroblast differentiation, as determined by Western blotting for α-smooth muscle actin and calponin. Prostaglandin A1 (PGA1), a structural analogue of 15d-PGJ2 with an electrophilic center, also reduced TGFβ-driven phosphorylation of Akt, while CAY10410, another analogue that lacks an electrophilic center, did not; implying that the activity of 15d-PGJ2 and CDDO is dependent on their electrophilic properties. PPAR-γ ligands inhibited TGFβ-induced Akt phosphorylation via both post-translational and post-transcriptional mechanisms. This inhibition is independent of MAPK-p38 and PTEN but is dependent on TGFβ-induced phosphorylation of FAK, a kinase that acts upstream of Akt. Thus, PPAR-γ ligands inhibit TGFβ signaling by affecting two pro-survival pathways that culminate in myofibroblast differentiation. Further studies of PPAR-γ ligands and small electrophilic molecules may lead to a new generation of anti-fibrotic therapeutics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ajit A. Kulkarni
- The Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York, United States of America
- Lung Biology and Disease Program, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York, United States of America
| | - Thomas H. Thatcher
- The Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York, United States of America
- Lung Biology and Disease Program, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York, United States of America
| | - Keith C. Olsen
- The Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York, United States of America
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York, United States of America
- Lung Biology and Disease Program, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York, United States of America
| | - Sanjay B. Maggirwar
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York, United States of America
| | - Richard P. Phipps
- The Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York, United States of America
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York, United States of America
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York, United States of America
- Lung Biology and Disease Program, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York, United States of America
| | - Patricia J. Sime
- The Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York, United States of America
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York, United States of America
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York, United States of America
- Lung Biology and Disease Program, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Pathogenesis of systemic sclerosis. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-323-06551-1.00139-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
|
39
|
Asano Y, Bujor AM, Trojanowska M. The impact of Fli1 deficiency on the pathogenesis of systemic sclerosis. J Dermatol Sci 2010; 59:153-62. [PMID: 20663647 DOI: 10.1016/j.jdermsci.2010.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2010] [Revised: 06/03/2010] [Accepted: 06/14/2010] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune inflammatory disease with unknown etiology characterized by microvascular injury and fibrosis of the skin and internal organs. A growing body of evidence suggests that deficiency of the transcription factor Fli1 (Friend leukemia integration-1) has a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of SSc. Fli1 is expressed in fibroblasts, endothelial cells, and immune cells, and has important roles in the activation, differentiation, development, and survival of these cells. Previous studies demonstrated that Fli1 is downregulated in SSc fibroblasts by an epigenetic mechanism and a series of experiments with Fli1-deficient animal models revealed that Fli1 deficiency in fibroblasts and endothelial cells reproduces the histopathologic features of fibrosis and vasculopathy in SSc, respectively. In this article, we review the impact of Fli1 deficiency on the pathogenesis of SSc and discuss a new therapeutic strategy for SSc by targeting the transcription factor Fli1.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yoshihide Asano
- Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
40
|
HUA-HUY THONG, TIEV KIETPHONG, CHÉREAU CHRISTIANE, DUONG-QUY SY, CABANE JEAN, DINH-XUAN ANHTUAN. Increased Alveolar Concentration of Nitric Oxide Is Related to Serum-induced Lung Fibroblast Proliferation in Patients with Systemic Sclerosis. J Rheumatol 2010; 37:1680-7. [DOI: 10.3899/jrheum.090915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Objective.Lung inflammation is present in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) and interstitial lung disease (ILD), but the mechanisms linking inflammatory and fibrotic processes in ILD are unknown. Our aim was to investigate whether alveolar inflammation, reflected by increased alveolar concentration of exhaled nitric oxide (CANO), is related to the ability of serum from patients with SSc to induce pulmonary fibroblast proliferation (PFP) and myofibroblast conversion.Methods.CANO was measured in all subjects (37 patients with SSc and 10 healthy controls) whose sera were used to stimulate PFP (assessed by BrdU labeling index) and myofibroblast conversion (detected by α-smooth muscle actin expression). The PFP index in patients with SSc was compared to control values, and between patients with SSc who had elevated (> 4.3 ppb) and normal (≤ 4.3 ppb) CANO values.Results.Both CANO and the PFP index were significantly greater in patients with SSc compared to controls. In patients with SSc, the PFP index was directly related to CANO levels (r = 0.48; p = 0.002). The median PFP index was significantly higher in patients with SSc who had elevated CANO (> 4.3 ppb; n = 25, median 1.1, range 0.98–1.23) than in patients with SSc who had normal CANO (≤ 4.3 ppb; n = 12, median 0.93, range 0.82–1.08; p = 0.01). Similarly, myofibroblast conversion induced by SSc serum was significantly greater in patients with CANO > 4.3 ppb than in patients whose CANO was ≤ 4.3 ppb (p < 0.001) and controls (p < 0.001).Conclusion.Alveolar inflammation reflected by increased nitric oxide production was related to serum-induced PFP and myofibroblast conversion, linking the active alveolitis process to cell proliferation and lung fibrosis in patients with SSc.
Collapse
|
41
|
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The lung in systemic sclerosis (scleroderma) is susceptible to fibrosis and the ensuing respiratory insufficiency contributes to significant morbidity and mortality in this disease. The lack of effective therapies for pulmonary fibrosis has spurred a re-evaluation of pathobiological paradigms and therapeutic strategies in scleroderma-associated interstitial lung disease and in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. The purpose of this review is to examine emerging new therapeutic targets that modulate pro-fibrotic phenotypes of tissue-resident cells and the associated aberrant tissue remodeling responses in fibrotic disorders. RECENT FINDINGS Progressive forms of tissue fibrosis, including scleroderma, are characterized by an accumulation of activated mesenchymal cells and their secreted extracellular matrix proteins in association with dysrepair of epithelial and endothelial cells. Recent studies suggest that emergence of cellular phenotypes that perpetuate loss of cellular homeostasis is characteristic of many fibrosis-related clinical syndromes. SUMMARY Therapeutic strategies that modulate the fate/phenotype of reparative structural cells, including epithelial, endothelial, and mesenchymal cells, offer new opportunities for the development of more effective drugs for the treatment of fibrosis.
Collapse
|
42
|
Shi-Wen X, Parapuram SK, Pala D, Chen Y, Carter DE, Eastwood M, Denton CP, Abraham DJ, Leask A. Requirement of transforming growth factor β-activated kinase 1 for transforming growth factor β-induced α-smooth muscle actin expression and extracellular matrix contraction in fibroblasts. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009; 60:234-41. [DOI: 10.1002/art.24223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
|
43
|
Quiros RM, Valianou M, Kwon Y, Brown KM, Godwin AK, Cukierman E. Ovarian normal and tumor-associated fibroblasts retain in vivo stromal characteristics in a 3-D matrix-dependent manner. Gynecol Oncol 2008; 110:99-109. [PMID: 18448156 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2008.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2008] [Revised: 03/07/2008] [Accepted: 03/14/2008] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Due to a lack of experimental systems, little is known about ovarian stroma. Here, we introduce an in vivo-like 3-D system of mesenchymal stromal progression during ovarian tumorigenesis to support the study of stroma permissiveness in human ovarian neoplasias. METHODS To sort 3-D cultures into 'normal,' 'primed' and 'activated' stromagenic stages, 29 fibroblastic cell lines from 5 ovarian tumor samples (tumor ovarian fibroblasts, TOFs) and 14 cell lines from normal prophylactic oophorectomy samples (normal ovarian fibroblasts, NOFs) were harvested and characterized for their morphological, biochemical and 3-D culture features. RESULTS Under 2-D conditions, cells displayed three distinct morphologies: spread, spindle, and intermediate. We found that spread and spindle cells have similar levels of alpha-SMA, a desmoplastic marker, and consistent ratios of pFAKY(397)/totalFAK. In 3-D intermediate cultures, alpha-SMA levels were virtually undetectable while pFAKY(397)/totalFAK ratios were low. In addition, we used confocal microscopy to assess in vivo-like extracellular matrix topography, nuclei morphology and alpha-SMA features in the 3-D cultures. We found that all NOFs presented 'normal' characteristics, while TOFs presented both 'primed' and 'activated' features. Moreover, immunohistochemistry analyses confirmed that the 3-D matrix-dependent characteristics are reminiscent of those observed in in vivo stromal counterparts. CONCLUSIONS We conclude that primary human ovarian fibroblasts maintain in vivo-like (staged) stromal characteristics in a 3-D matrix-dependent manner. Therefore, our stromal 3-D system offers a tool that can enhance the understanding of both stromal progression and stroma-induced ovarian tumorigenesis. In the future, this system could also be used to develop ovarian stroma-targeted therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roderick M Quiros
- Basic Science, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA 19111-2497, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
44
|
Tourkina E, Richard M, Gööz P, Bonner M, Pannu J, Harley R, Bernatchez PN, Sessa WC, Silver RM, Hoffman S. Antifibrotic properties of caveolin-1 scaffolding domain in vitro and in vivo. Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol 2008; 294:L843-61. [DOI: 10.1152/ajplung.00295.2007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 124] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Lung fibrosis involves the overexpression of ECM proteins, primarily collagen, by α-smooth muscle actin (ASMA)-positive cells. Caveolin-1 is a master regulator of collagen expression by cultured lung fibroblasts and of lung fibrosis in vivo. A peptide equivalent to the caveolin-1 scaffolding domain (CSD peptide) inhibits collagen and tenascin-C expression by normal lung fibroblasts (NLF) and fibroblasts from the fibrotic lungs of scleroderma patients (SLF). CSD peptide inhibits ASMA expression in SLF but not NLF. Similar inhibition of collagen, tenascin-C, and ASMA expression was also observed when caveolin-1 expression was upregulated using adenovirus. These observations suggest that the low caveolin-1 levels in SLF cause their overexpression of collagen, tenascin-C, and ASMA. In mechanistic studies, MEK, ERK, JNK, and Akt were hyperactivated in SLF, and CSD peptide inhibited their activation and altered their subcellular localization. These studies and experiments using kinase inhibitors suggest many differences between NLF and SLF in signaling cascades. To validate these data, we determined that the alterations in signaling molecule activation observed in SLF also occur in fibrotic lung tissue from scleroderma patients and in mice with bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis. Finally, we demonstrated that systemic administration of CSD peptide to bleomycin-treated mice blocks epithelial cell apoptosis, inflammatory cell infiltration, and changes in tissue morphology as well as signaling molecule activation and collagen, tenascin-C, and ASMA expression associated with lung fibrosis. CSD peptide may be a prototype for novel treatments for human lung fibrosis that act, in part, by inhibiting the expression of ASMA and ECM proteins.
Collapse
|
45
|
Hayashida T, Wu MH, Pierce A, Poncelet AC, Varga J, Schnaper HW. MAP-kinase activity necessary for TGFbeta1-stimulated mesangial cell type I collagen expression requires adhesion-dependent phosphorylation of FAK tyrosine 397. J Cell Sci 2008; 120:4230-40. [PMID: 18032789 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.03492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The signals mediating transforming growth factor beta (TGFbeta)-stimulated kidney fibrogenesis are poorly understood. We previously reported TGFbeta-stimulated, Smad-mediated collagen production by human kidney mesangial cells, and that ERK MAP kinase activity optimizes collagen expression and enhances phosphorylation of the Smad3 linker region. Furthermore, we showed that disrupting cytoskeletal integrity decreases type I collagen production. Focal adhesion kinase (FAK, PTK2) activity could integrate these findings. Adhesion-dependent FAK Y397 phosphorylation was detected basally, whereas FAK Y925 phosphorylation was TGFbeta1-dependent. By immunocytochemistry, TGFbeta1 stimulated the merging of phosphorylated FAK with the ends of thickening stress fibers. Cells cultured on poly-L-lysine (pLL) to promote integrin-independent attachment spread less than those on control substrate and failed to demonstrate focal adhesion (FA) engagement with F-actin. FAK Y397 phosphorylation and ERK activity were also decreased under these conditions. In cells with decreased FAK Y397 phosphorylation from either plating on pLL or overexpressing a FAK Y397F point mutant, serine phosphorylation of the Smad linker region, but not of the C-terminus, was reduced. Y397F and Y925F FAK point mutants inhibited TGFbeta-induced Elk-Gal activity, but only the Y397F mutant inhibited TGFbeta-stimulated collagen-promoter activity. The inhibition by the Y397F mutant or by culture on pLL was prevented by co-transfection of constitutively active ERK MAP kinase kinase (MEK), suggesting that FAK Y397 phosphorylation promotes collagen expression via ERK MAP kinase activity. Finally, Y397 FAK phosphorylation, and both C-terminal and linker-region Smad3 phosphorylation were detected in murine TGFbeta-dependent kidney fibrosis. Together, these data demonstrate adhesion-dependent FAK phosphorylation promoting TGFbeta-induced responses to regulate collagen production.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tomoko Hayashida
- Division of Kidney Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, The Freinberg School Of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
46
|
Abstract
This article reviews current understanding of the pathophysiology of fibrosis in systemic sclerosis. It highlights recent discoveries, insights, and emerging research, and potential opportunities for the development of targeted antifibrotic therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John A Varga
- Division of Rheumatology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, McGaw 2300, 240 East Huron Street, Chicago IL 60611-2909, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|
47
|
Abstract
A unique feature of systemic sclerosis (SSc) that distinguishes it from other fibrotic disorders is that autoimmunity and vasculopathy characteristically precede fibrosis. Moreover, fibrosis in SSc is not restricted to a single organ, but rather affects many organs and accounts for much of the morbidity and mortality associated with this disease. Although immunomodulatory drugs have been used extensively in the treatment of SSc, no therapy to date has been able to reverse or slow the progression of tissue fibrosis or substantially modify the natural progression of the disease. In this Review, we highlight recent studies that shed light on the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the fibrotic process in SSc and that identify cellular processes and intra- and extracellular proteins as potential novel targets for therapy in this prototypic multisystemic fibrotic disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John Varga
- Devision of Rheumatology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|
48
|
Liu S, Shi-wen X, Kennedy L, Pala D, Chen Y, Eastwood M, Carter DE, Black CM, Abraham DJ, Leask A. FAK is required for TGFbeta-induced JNK phosphorylation in fibroblasts: implications for acquisition of a matrix-remodeling phenotype. Mol Biol Cell 2007; 18:2169-78. [PMID: 17409352 PMCID: PMC1877111 DOI: 10.1091/mbc.e06-12-1121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor beta (TGFbeta) plays a critical role in connective tissue remodeling by fibroblasts during development, tissue repair, and fibrosis. We investigated the molecular pathways in the transmission of TGFbeta signals that lead to features of connective tissue remodeling, namely formation of an alpha-smooth muscle actin (alpha-SMA) cytoskeleton, matrix contraction, and expression of profibrotic genes. TGFbeta causes the activation of focal adhesion kinase (FAK), leading to JNK phosphorylation. TGFbeta induces JNK-dependent actin stress fiber formation, matrix contraction, and expression of profibrotic genes in fak+/+, but not fak-/-, fibroblasts. Overexpression of MEKK1, a kinase acting upstream of JNK, rescues TGFbeta responsiveness of JNK-dependent transcripts and actin stress fiber formation in FAK-deficient fibroblasts. Thus we propose a FAK-MEKK1-JNK pathway in the transmission of TGFbeta signals leading to the control of alpha-SMA cytoskeleton reorganization, matrix contraction, and profibrotic gene expression and hence to the physiological and pathological effects of TGFbeta on connective tissue remodeling by fibroblasts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shangxi Liu
- *Canadian Institutes of Health Research Group in Skeletal Development and Remodeling, Division of Oral Biology and Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada N6A 5C1
| | - Xu Shi-wen
- Centre for Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Royal Free and University College Medical School, University College London (Royal Free Campus), London, United Kingdom NW3 2PF
| | - Laura Kennedy
- *Canadian Institutes of Health Research Group in Skeletal Development and Remodeling, Division of Oral Biology and Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada N6A 5C1
| | - Daphne Pala
- *Canadian Institutes of Health Research Group in Skeletal Development and Remodeling, Division of Oral Biology and Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada N6A 5C1
| | - Yunliang Chen
- School of Biosciences, University of Westminster, London, United Kingdom, W1W 6UW; and
| | - Mark Eastwood
- School of Biosciences, University of Westminster, London, United Kingdom, W1W 6UW; and
| | | | - Carol M. Black
- Centre for Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Royal Free and University College Medical School, University College London (Royal Free Campus), London, United Kingdom NW3 2PF
| | - David J. Abraham
- Centre for Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Royal Free and University College Medical School, University College London (Royal Free Campus), London, United Kingdom NW3 2PF
| | - Andrew Leask
- *Canadian Institutes of Health Research Group in Skeletal Development and Remodeling, Division of Oral Biology and Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada N6A 5C1
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Abstract
It is generally accepted that fibroblast-to-myofibroblast differentiation represents a key event during wound healing and tissue repair. The high contractile force generated by myofibroblasts is beneficial for physiological tissue remodeling but detrimental for tissue function when it becomes excessive such as in hypertrophic scars, in virtually all fibrotic diseases and during stroma reaction to tumors. Specific molecular features as well as factors that control myofibroblast differentiation are potential targets to counteract its development, function, and survival. Such targets include alpha-smooth muscle actin and more recently discovered markers of the myofibroblast cytoskeleton, membrane surface proteins, and the extracellular matrix. Moreover, intervening with myofibroblast stress perception and transmission offers novel strategies to reduce tissue contracture; stress release leads to the instant loss of contraction and promotes apoptosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Boris Hinz
- Laboratory of Cell Biophysics, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Abstract
The autoimmune disease scleroderma (systemic sclerosis (SSc)) is characterized by extensive tissue fibrosis, causing significant morbidity. There is no therapy for the fibrosis observed in SSc; indeed, the underlying cause of the scarring observed in this disease is unknown. Transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ) has long been hypothesized to be a major contributor to pathological fibrotic diseases, including SSc. Recently, the signaling pathways through which TGFβ activates a fibrotic program have been elucidated and, as a consequence, several possible points for anti-fibrotic drug intervention in SSc have emerged.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Leask
- Division of Oral Biology and Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, Dental Sciences Building, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|