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Kologrivova IV, Naryzhnaya NV, Suslova TE. Thymus in Cardiometabolic Impairments and Atherosclerosis: Not a Silent Player? Biomedicines 2024; 12:1408. [PMID: 39061983 PMCID: PMC11273826 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12071408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2024] [Revised: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The thymus represents a primary organ of the immune system, harboring the generation and maturation of T lymphocytes. Starting from childhood, the thymus undergoes involution, being replaced with adipose tissue, and by an advanced age nearly all the thymus parenchyma is represented by adipocytes. This decline of thymic function is associated with compromised maturation and selection of T lymphocytes, which may directly impact the development of inflammation and induce various autoinflammatory disorders, including atherosclerosis. For a long time, thymus health in adults has been ignored. The process of adipogenesis in thymus and impact of thymic fat on cardiometabolism remains a mysterious process, with many issues being still unresolved. Meanwhile, thymus functional activity has a potential to be regulated, since islets of thymopoeisis remain in adults even at an advanced age. The present review describes the intricate process of thymic adipose involution, focusing on the issues of the thymus' role in the development of atherosclerosis and metabolic health, tightly interconnected with the state of vessels. We also review the recent information on the key molecular pathways and biologically active substances that may be targeted to manipulate both thymic function and atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irina V. Kologrivova
- Cardiology Research Institute, Tomsk National Research Medical Center, Russian Academy of Sciences, 111A Kievskaya, Tomsk 634012, Russia; (N.V.N.); (T.E.S.)
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Stewart W, Hejl C, Guleria RS, Gupta S. Effect of thymosin β4 on lipopolysaccharide‑stimulated brain microvascular endothelial cell remodeling: A possible role in blood‑brain barrier injury. Exp Ther Med 2023; 26:468. [PMID: 37664684 PMCID: PMC10469577 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2023.12167] [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: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
War veterans, in particular, are more prone to mental illness as they are more likely to have encountered multiple traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) whilst serving on active duty in war zone areas. A TBI is known to cause mortality or serious neurological disabilities among survivors and elicits a number of pathological processes, including neuroinflammation and blood brain barrier (BBB) disruption, leading to secondary brain damage and subsequent impairment of the neurovascular unit. Although several drugs exhibit promising effects for TBI, the repertoire of currently available therapeutic strategies remains limited. Thymosin 4 (Tβ4) is a 43-amino acid G-acting sequestering peptide that confers neuroprotective potential in TBI models. However, its role in BBB function remains unclear. Further research into the mechanism of BBB disruption induced by TBI and its specific role in neurovascular pathophysiology is necessary. In the present study, the protective effects of Tβ4 in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated gene expression of several tight junction proteins, inflammatory genes, apoptotic genes, and adhesion genes in human brain microvascular endothelial cells (hBMVECs), one of the pivotal cell types in the BBB, were reported. The results suggested that pretreatment with Tβ4 reversed the LPS-induced damage of BBB components in hBMVECs. Furthermore, these results identified neuregulin 1 as a possible target for Tβ4. Therefore, it is proposed that Tβ4-mediated cellular signaling in hBMVEC may be vital for understanding the association between the BBB and TBI pathophysiology, which warrants further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Stewart
- Biomarkers & Genetics Core, VISN 17 Center of Excellence for Research on Returning War Veterans, Central Texas Veterans Health Care System, Waco, TX 76711, USA
| | - Christina Hejl
- Biomarkers & Genetics Core, VISN 17 Center of Excellence for Research on Returning War Veterans, Central Texas Veterans Health Care System, Waco, TX 76711, USA
| | - Rakeshwar S. Guleria
- Biomarkers & Genetics Core, VISN 17 Center of Excellence for Research on Returning War Veterans, Central Texas Veterans Health Care System, Waco, TX 76711, USA
| | - Sudhiranjan Gupta
- Biomarkers & Genetics Core, VISN 17 Center of Excellence for Research on Returning War Veterans, Central Texas Veterans Health Care System, Waco, TX 76711, USA
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Wang X, Zhou Y, Sun Q, Zhang Q, Zhou H, Zhang J, Du Y, Wang Y, Yuan K, Xu L, Zhang M, Yan D, Zeng L, Xu K, Sang W. Thymosin β4 exerts cytoprotective function and attenuates liver injury in murine hepatic sinusoidal obstruction syndrome after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Transplant Cell Ther 2023:S2666-6367(23)01292-7. [PMID: 37192732 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtct.2023.05.009] [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: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Hepatic sinusoidal obstruction syndrome (HSOS) is one of the life-threatening complications that may occur after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Hepatic sinusoidal endothelial cells (HSECs) injury and liver fibrosis are key mechanisms of HSOS. Thymosin β4 (Tβ4) is an active polypeptide that functions in a variety of pathological and physiological states such as inflammation regulation, anti-apoptosis and anti-fibrosis. In this study, we found that Tβ4 can stimulate HSECs proliferation, migration and tube formation in vitro via activation of pro-survival signaling AKT (protein kinase B). In addition, Tβ4 resisted γ irradiation-induced HSECs growth arrest and apoptosis in parallel with upregulation of anti-apoptotic protein B-cell lymphoma-extra-large (Bcl-xL) and B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2), which may be associated with activation of AKT. More importantly, Tβ4 significantly inhibited irradiation-induced proinflammatory cytokines in parallel with negative regulation of TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB and MAPK p38. Meanwhile, Tβ4 reduced intracellular reactive oxygen species production and upregulated antioxidants in HSECs. Additionally, Tβ4 inhibited irradiation-induced activation of hepatic stellate cells via downregulation expression of fibrogenic markers α-SMA, PAI-1 and TGF-β. In a murine HSOS model, levels of circulating alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, total bilirubin, and pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-6, IL-1β and TNF-α were significantly reduced after administration of Tβ4 peptide; further, Tβ4 treatment successfully ameliorated HSECs injury, inflammatory damage and fibrosis of murine liver. Taken together, Tβ4 stimulates proliferation and angiogenesis of HSECs, exerts cytoprotective effect and attenuates liver injury in murine HSOS model, which could be a potential strategy to prevent and treat HSOS after HSCT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangmin Wang
- Department of Hematology, the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China; Blood Diseases Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Stem Cell, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yi Zhou
- Department of Hematology, the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China; Blood Diseases Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Stem Cell, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Qian Sun
- Department of Hematology, the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China; Blood Diseases Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Stem Cell, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Qing Zhang
- Department of Hematology, the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China; Blood Diseases Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Stem Cell, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Hongyuan Zhou
- Department of Hematology, the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China; Blood Diseases Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Stem Cell, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Jiaoli Zhang
- Department of Rehabilitation, the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Yuwei Du
- Department of Hematology, the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China; Blood Diseases Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Stem Cell, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yuhan Wang
- Department of Hematology, the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China; Blood Diseases Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Stem Cell, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Ke Yuan
- Department of Hematology, the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China; Blood Diseases Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Stem Cell, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Linyan Xu
- Department of Hematology, the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China; Blood Diseases Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Stem Cell, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Meng Zhang
- Department of Hematology, the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China; Blood Diseases Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Stem Cell, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Dongmei Yan
- Department of Hematology, the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China; Blood Diseases Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Stem Cell, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Lingyu Zeng
- Department of Hematology, the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China; Blood Diseases Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Stem Cell, Jiangsu Province, China.
| | - Kailin Xu
- Department of Hematology, the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China; Blood Diseases Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Stem Cell, Jiangsu Province, China.
| | - Wei Sang
- Department of Hematology, the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China; Blood Diseases Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Stem Cell, Jiangsu Province, China.
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Munshaw S, Redpath AN, Pike BT, Smart N. Thymosin β4 preserves vascular smooth muscle phenotype in atherosclerosis via regulation of low density lipoprotein related protein 1 (LRP1). Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 115:109702. [PMID: 37724952 PMCID: PMC10666903 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.109702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is a progressive, degenerative vascular disease and a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. In response to endothelial damage, platelet derived growth factor (PDGF)-BB induced phenotypic modulation of medial smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) promotes atherosclerotic lesion formation and destabilisation of the vessel wall. VSMC sensitivity to PDGF-BB is determined by endocytosis of Low density lipoprotein receptor related protein 1 (LRP1)-PDGFR β complexes to balance receptor recycling with lysosomal degradation. Consequently, LRP1 is implicated in various arterial diseases. Having identified Tβ4 as a regulator of LRP1-mediated endocytosis to protect against aortic aneurysm, we sought to determine whether Tβ4 may additionally function to protect against atherosclerosis, by regulating LRP1-mediated growth factor signalling. By single cell transcriptomic analysis, Tmsb4x, encoding Tβ4, strongly correlated with contractile gene expression and was significantly down-regulated in cells that adopted a modulated phenotype in atherosclerosis. We assessed susceptibility to atherosclerosis of global Tβ4 knockout mice using the ApoE-/- hypercholesterolaemia model. Inflammation, elastin integrity, VSMC phenotype and signalling were analysed in the aortic root and descending aorta. Tβ4KO; ApoE-/- mice develop larger atherosclerotic plaques than control mice, with medial layer degeneration characterised by accelerated VSMC phenotypic modulation. Defects in Tβ4KO; ApoE-/- mice phenocopied those in VSMC-specific LRP1 nulls and, moreover, were underpinned by hyperactivated LRP1-PDGFRβ signalling. We identify an atheroprotective role for endogenous Tβ4 in maintaining differentiated VSMC phenotype via LRP1-mediated PDGFRβ signalling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonali Munshaw
- Burdon Sanderson Cardiac Science Centre, Department of Physiology, Anatomy & Genetics, University of Oxford, Sherrington Building, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3PT, UK
| | - Andia N Redpath
- Burdon Sanderson Cardiac Science Centre, Department of Physiology, Anatomy & Genetics, University of Oxford, Sherrington Building, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3PT, UK; Institute of Developmental and Regenerative Medicine, University of Oxford, IMS-Tetsuya Nakamura Building, Old Road Campus, Oxford OX3 7TY, UK
| | - Benjamin T Pike
- Burdon Sanderson Cardiac Science Centre, Department of Physiology, Anatomy & Genetics, University of Oxford, Sherrington Building, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3PT, UK
| | - Nicola Smart
- Burdon Sanderson Cardiac Science Centre, Department of Physiology, Anatomy & Genetics, University of Oxford, Sherrington Building, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3PT, UK; Institute of Developmental and Regenerative Medicine, University of Oxford, IMS-Tetsuya Nakamura Building, Old Road Campus, Oxford OX3 7TY, UK.
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Gao Z, Bao J, Hu Y, Tu J, Ye L, Wang L. Sodium-glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibitors and Pathological Myocardial Hypertrophy. Curr Drug Targets 2023; 24:1009-1022. [PMID: 37691190 PMCID: PMC10879742 DOI: 10.2174/1389450124666230907115831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors are a new type of oral hypoglycemic drugs that exert a hypoglycemic effect by blocking the reabsorption of glucose in the proximal renal tubules, thus promoting the excretion of glucose from urine. Their hypoglycemic effect is not dependent on insulin. Increasing data shows that SGLT2 inhibitors improve cardiovascular outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes. Previous studies have demonstrated that SGLT2 inhibitors can reduce pathological myocardial hypertrophy with or without diabetes, but the exact mechanism remains to be elucidated. To clarify the relationship between SGLT2 inhibitors and pathological myocardial hypertrophy, with a view to providing a reference for the future treatment thereof, this study reviewed the possible mechanisms of SGLT2 inhibitors in attenuating pathological myocardial hypertrophy. We focused specifically on the mechanisms in terms of inflammation, oxidative stress, myocardial fibrosis, mitochondrial function, epicardial lipids, endothelial function, insulin resistance, cardiac hydrogen and sodium exchange, and autophagy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhicheng Gao
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Heart Center, Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital (Affiliated People’s Hospital), Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jiaqi Bao
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Heart Center, Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital (Affiliated People’s Hospital), Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yilan Hu
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Heart Center, Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital (Affiliated People’s Hospital), Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Junjie Tu
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lifang Ye
- Heart Center, Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital (Affiliated People’s Hospital), Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Lihong Wang
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Heart Center, Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital (Affiliated People’s Hospital), Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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Wang X, Su J, Lin Z, Liu K, Zhuang Y. PINCH1 knockout aggravates myocardial infarction in mice via mediating the NF-κB signaling pathway. Exp Ther Med 2021; 23:62. [PMID: 34934433 PMCID: PMC8649883 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2021.10984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Myocardial infarction (MI), the leading cause of death among patients with cardiovascular diseases, is characterized by acute cardiac muscle injury due to severe impairment of the coronary blood supply, which may lead to cardiogenic shock and cardiac arrest. Particularly interesting new cysteine histidine rich 1 (PINCH1) protein, a key component of the integrin signaling pathway, interacts with several proteins and serves a vital role in numerous cellular processes, including cytoskeleton remodeling, cell proliferation and cell migration. To investigate the role of PINCH1 in heart injury in the present study, PINCH1 was knocked out in the myocardial tissue of mice (age, 18 weeks) to induce MI. In addition, cell viability, migration and apoptosis, as well as the expression levels of NF-κB-associated proteins were determined in murine HL1 cardiomyocytes with a conditional PINCH1 shRNA using Cell Counting Kit-8, Transwell, flow cytometry and western blot assays, respectively. Furthermore, the cardiac expansion and myocardial fibrosis in PINCH1 knockout mice was investigated in vivo by performing morphological and histological examinations. Additionally, the murine ventricular myocardial ultrastructure was evaluated using an electron microscope, and the cardiomyocyte apoptotic rate and expression levels of NF-κB-related proteins were determined using TUNEL and western blot assays, respectively. The results showed that the apoptotic rate in the in vivo PINCH1 knockdown group was significantly increased. In addition, the protein expression levels of NF-κB signaling pathway-related proteins, including NF-κB, myeloid differentiation factor 88, TNF-α and caspase-3, were significantly increased in the in vivo PINCH1 knockdown group compared with the wild-type group, but the protein expression of MMP2 and MMP9 were the opposite. Overall, the in vitro and in vivo results revealed that PINCH1 knockout in mice significantly aggravated MI via the NF-κB signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuejun Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences Affiliated Zhoupu Hospital, Shanghai 201318, P.R. China
| | - Jinwen Su
- Department of Cardiology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, P.R. China
| | - Zhikang Lin
- Department of Cardiology, Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences Affiliated Zhoupu Hospital, Shanghai 201318, P.R. China
| | - Kangyong Liu
- Department of Neurology, Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences Affiliated Zhoupu Hospital, Shanghai 201318, P.R. China
| | - Yu Zhuang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, P.R. China
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Zhang J, Long M, Sun Z, Yang C, Jiang X, He L, Su L, Peng Z. Association between Thymosin beta-4, acute kidney injury, and mortality in patients with sepsis: An observational cohort study. Int Immunopharmacol 2021; 101:108167. [PMID: 34607232 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2021.108167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Revised: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sepsis is a systemic inflammatory response syndrome, associated with high risk of acute kidney injury (AKI) and in-hospital mortality. Thymosin beta-4 (Tβ4) is an actin-sequestering protein that can prevent inflammation in several tissues. Thus, we studied the role of Tβ4 in sepsis. METHODS The Tβ4 concentrations were prospectively measured in 191 patients within 6 h of the intensive care units (ICU) admission with diagnosis of sepsis. The cohort was divided into Tβ4 concentration tertiles: 1.19-7.11 ng/ml (n = 64), 7.12-11.01 ng/ml (n = 64), and 11.02-28.10 ng/ml (n = 63). RESULTS Of 191 patients, 92 patients developed AKI, 24 of whom received continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT), 29 patients died within 7 days, and 53 patients died within 28 days. Lower Tβ4 stages were correlated with poor prognosis, including AKI(odds ratio [OR], 2.102 per stage lower; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.448 to 3.050; P < 0.001), CRRT(OR, 2.346 per stage lower; 95% CI, 1.287 to 4.276; P = 0.005), 7-day mortality(OR, 1.755 per stage lower; 95% CI, 1.050 to 2.935; P = 0.032), and 28-day mortality(OR, 1.821 per stage lower; 95% CI, 1.209 to 2.743; P = 0.004). Kaplan-Meier analysis also demonstrated that patients with lower Tβ4 stages had a high risk of AKI and death. In addition, the area under the curve (AUC) of Tβ4 for predicting AKI, CRRT, 7-day mortality, and 28-day mortality were, respectively, 0.702 (95% CI 0.628-0.776), 0.717 (95% CI 0.592-0.842), 0.694 (95% CI 0.579-0.808), and 0.682 (95% CI 0.598-0.767). CONCLUSIONS Lower Tβ4 stages are associated with higher odds of poor prognosis in ICU patients with sepsis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiahao Zhang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Minghui Long
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Zhongyi Sun
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Cheng Yang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Xiaofang Jiang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Li He
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Lianjiu Su
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China.
| | - Zhiyong Peng
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China; Hubei clinical research center for critical care medicine, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China.
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Huang M, Gao S, Gao L, Liu D, Liu X, Sun Z, Deng H, Zhao B, Liu B, Li A, Pang Q. β-Thymosin is an essential regulator of stem cell proliferation and neuron regeneration in planarian (Dugesia japonica). DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2021; 121:104097. [PMID: 33831480 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2021.104097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Revised: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
β-Thymosin is a multifunctional peptide ubiquitously expressed in vertebrates and invertebrates. Many studies have found β-thymosin is critical for wound healing, angiogenesis, cardiac repair, hair regrowth, and anti-fibrosis in vertebrates, and plays an important role in antimicrobial immunity in invertebrates. However, whether β-thymosin participates in the regeneration of organisms is still poorly understood. In this study, we identified a β-thymosin gene in Dugesia japonica which played an important role in stem cell proliferation and neuron regeneration during the tissue repair process in D. japonica. Sequencing analysis showed that β-thymosin contained two conserved β-thymosin domains and two actin-binding motifs, and had a high similarity with other β-thymosins of invertebrates. In situ or fluorescence in situ hybridization analysis revealed that Djβ-thymosin was co-localized with DjPiWi in the neoblast cells of intact adult planarians and the blastema of regenerating planarians, suggesting Djβ-thymosin has a potential function of regeneration. Disruption Djβ-thymosin by RNA interference results in a slightly curled up head of planarian and stem cell proliferation defects. Additionally, we found that, upon amputation, Djβ-thymosin RNAi-treated animals had impaired regeneration ability, including impaired blastema formation, delayed eyespot formation, decreased brain area, and disrupted central CNS formation, implying Djβ-thymosin is an essential regulator of stem cell proliferation and neuron regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mujie Huang
- Anti-aging & Regenerative Medicine Research Institution, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo, 255049, PR China; Laboratory of Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo, 255049, PR China
| | - Sijia Gao
- Anti-aging & Regenerative Medicine Research Institution, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo, 255049, PR China; Laboratory of Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo, 255049, PR China
| | - Lili Gao
- Anti-aging & Regenerative Medicine Research Institution, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo, 255049, PR China; Laboratory of Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo, 255049, PR China
| | - Dongwu Liu
- Anti-aging & Regenerative Medicine Research Institution, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo, 255049, PR China
| | - Xi Liu
- Anti-aging & Regenerative Medicine Research Institution, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo, 255049, PR China; Laboratory of Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo, 255049, PR China
| | - Zhe Sun
- Anti-aging & Regenerative Medicine Research Institution, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo, 255049, PR China; Laboratory of Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo, 255049, PR China
| | - Hongkuan Deng
- Anti-aging & Regenerative Medicine Research Institution, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo, 255049, PR China; Laboratory of Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo, 255049, PR China
| | - Bosheng Zhao
- Laboratory of Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo, 255049, PR China
| | - Baohua Liu
- Anti-aging & Regenerative Medicine Research Institution, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo, 255049, PR China; Shenzhen University of Health Science Center, District Shenzhen, 518060, China
| | - Ao Li
- Anti-aging & Regenerative Medicine Research Institution, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo, 255049, PR China; Laboratory of Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo, 255049, PR China.
| | - Qiuxiang Pang
- Anti-aging & Regenerative Medicine Research Institution, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo, 255049, PR China; Laboratory of Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo, 255049, PR China.
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9
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Munshaw S, Bruche S, Redpath AN, Jones A, Patel J, Dubé KN, Lee R, Hester SS, Davies R, Neal G, Handa A, Sattler M, Fischer R, Channon KM, Smart N. Thymosin β4 protects against aortic aneurysm via endocytic regulation of growth factor signaling. J Clin Invest 2021; 131:127884. [PMID: 33784254 PMCID: PMC8121525 DOI: 10.1172/jci127884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2019] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Vascular stability and tone are maintained by contractile smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). However, injury-induced growth factors stimulate a contractile-synthetic phenotypic modulation which increases susceptibility to abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). As a regulator of embryonic VSMC differentiation, we hypothesized that Thymosin β4 (Tβ4) may function to maintain healthy vasculature throughout postnatal life. This was supported by the identification of an interaction with low density lipoprotein receptor related protein 1 (LRP1), an endocytic regulator of platelet-derived growth factor BB (PDGF-BB) signaling and VSMC proliferation. LRP1 variants have been implicated by genome-wide association studies with risk of AAA and other arterial diseases. Tβ4-null mice displayed aortic VSMC and elastin defects that phenocopy those of LRP1 mutants, and their compromised vascular integrity predisposed them to Angiotensin II-induced aneurysm formation. Aneurysmal vessels were characterized by enhanced VSMC phenotypic modulation and augmented PDGFR-β signaling. In vitro, enhanced sensitivity to PDGF-BB upon loss of Tβ4 was associated with dysregulated endocytosis, with increased recycling and reduced lysosomal targeting of LRP1-PDGFR-β. Accordingly, the exacerbated aneurysmal phenotype in Tβ4-null mice was rescued upon treatment with the PDGFR-β antagonist Imatinib. Our study identifies Tβ4 as a key regulator of LRP1 for maintaining vascular health, and provides insights into the mechanisms of growth factor-controlled VSMC phenotypic modulation underlying aortic disease progression.
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MESH Headings
- Angiotensin II/adverse effects
- Angiotensin II/pharmacology
- Animals
- Aortic Aneurysm, Abdominal/chemically induced
- Aortic Aneurysm, Abdominal/genetics
- Aortic Aneurysm, Abdominal/metabolism
- Aortic Aneurysm, Abdominal/prevention & control
- Becaplermin/genetics
- Becaplermin/metabolism
- Low Density Lipoprotein Receptor-Related Protein-1/genetics
- Low Density Lipoprotein Receptor-Related Protein-1/metabolism
- Male
- Mice
- Mice, Knockout
- Muscle, Smooth, Vascular/metabolism
- Myocytes, Smooth Muscle/metabolism
- Receptor, Platelet-Derived Growth Factor beta/genetics
- Receptor, Platelet-Derived Growth Factor beta/metabolism
- Signal Transduction/drug effects
- Signal Transduction/genetics
- Thymosin/genetics
- Thymosin/metabolism
- Thymosin/pharmacology
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonali Munshaw
- Burdon Sanderson Cardiac Science Centre, Department of Physiology, Anatomy & Genetics, University of Oxford, Sherrington Building, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Susann Bruche
- Burdon Sanderson Cardiac Science Centre, Department of Physiology, Anatomy & Genetics, University of Oxford, Sherrington Building, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Andia N. Redpath
- Burdon Sanderson Cardiac Science Centre, Department of Physiology, Anatomy & Genetics, University of Oxford, Sherrington Building, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Alisha Jones
- Institute of Structural Biology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Munich, Germany
- Biomolecular NMR and Center for Integrated Protein Science Munich at Chemistry Department, Technical University of Munich, Garching, Munich, Germany
| | - Jyoti Patel
- BHF Centre of Research Excellence, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | | | - Regent Lee
- Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Svenja S. Hester
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, Target Discovery Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Rachel Davies
- Burdon Sanderson Cardiac Science Centre, Department of Physiology, Anatomy & Genetics, University of Oxford, Sherrington Building, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Giles Neal
- Burdon Sanderson Cardiac Science Centre, Department of Physiology, Anatomy & Genetics, University of Oxford, Sherrington Building, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Ashok Handa
- Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Michael Sattler
- Institute of Structural Biology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Munich, Germany
- Biomolecular NMR and Center for Integrated Protein Science Munich at Chemistry Department, Technical University of Munich, Garching, Munich, Germany
| | - Roman Fischer
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, Target Discovery Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Keith M. Channon
- BHF Centre of Research Excellence, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Nicola Smart
- Burdon Sanderson Cardiac Science Centre, Department of Physiology, Anatomy & Genetics, University of Oxford, Sherrington Building, Oxford, United Kingdom
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10
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Yan Q, Tang J, Zhang X, Wu L, Xu Y, Wang L. Does Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid Type 1 Alleviate or Aggravate Pathological Myocardial Hypertrophy? Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:681286. [PMID: 34040539 PMCID: PMC8143375 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.681286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Transient receptor potential vanilloid type 1 (TRPV1) is a non-selective cation channel, which is involved in the endogenous stress adaptation mechanism for protection of the heart as well as the occurrence and development of some heart diseases. Although the effect of activation of the TRPV1 channel on different types of non-neural cells in the heart remains unclear, most data show that stimulation of sensory nerves expressing TRPV1 or stimulation/overexpression of the TRPV1 channel has a beneficial role in heart disease. Some studies have proven that TRPV1 has an important relationship with pathological myocardial hypertrophy, but the specific mechanism and effect are not clear. In order to help researchers better understand the relationship between TRPV1 and pathological myocardial hypertrophy, this paper aims to summarize the effect of TRPV1 and the related mechanism in the occurrence and development of pathological myocardial hypertrophy from the following three points of view: 1) role of TRPV1 in alleviation of pathological myocardial hypertrophy; 2) role of TRPV1 in aggravation of pathological myocardial hypertrophy; and 3) the point of view of our team of researchers. It is expected that new therapies can provide potential targets for pathological myocardial hypertrophy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiqi Yan
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China.,Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jun Tang
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China.,Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China.,Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Liuyang Wu
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China.,Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yunyi Xu
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China.,Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lihong Wang
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China.,Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
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11
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Xing Y, Ye Y, Zuo H, Li Y. Progress on the Function and Application of Thymosin β4. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:767785. [PMID: 34992578 PMCID: PMC8724243 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.767785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Thymosin β4 (Tβ4) is a multifunctional and widely distributed peptide that plays a pivotal role in several physiological and pathological processes in the body, namely, increasing angiogenesis and proliferation and inhibiting apoptosis and inflammation. Moreover, Tβ4 is effectively utilized for several indications in animal experiments or clinical trials, such as myocardial infarction and myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury, xerophthalmia, liver and renal fibrosis, ulcerative colitis and colon cancer, and skin trauma. Recent studies have reported the potential application of Tβ4 and its underlying mechanisms. The present study reveals the progress regarding functions and applications of Tβ4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Xing
- Department of Experimental Pathology, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hebei North University, Zhangjiakou, China
| | - Yumeng Ye
- Department of Experimental Pathology, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Hongyan Zuo
- Department of Experimental Pathology, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Hongyan Zuo, ; Yang Li,
| | - Yang Li
- Department of Experimental Pathology, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
- Academy of Life Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei City, China
- *Correspondence: Hongyan Zuo, ; Yang Li,
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12
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Wang M, Zong HF, Chang KW, Han H, Yasir Rizvi M, Iffat Neha S, Li ZY, Yang WN, Qian YH. 5-HT 1AR alleviates Aβ-induced cognitive decline and neuroinflammation through crosstalk with NF-κB pathway in mice. Int Immunopharmacol 2020; 82:106354. [PMID: 32143008 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2020.106354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2019] [Revised: 02/02/2020] [Accepted: 02/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) receptor is significant for the regulation of mood and memory. However, the role of 5-HT1AR in β-Amyloid protein (Aβ)-induced cognitive decline, neuroinflammation and the possible mechanism remains elusive. Thus, we aimed to evaluate the effects of 5-HT1AR on Aβ-induced learning and memory decline and neuroinflammation in mice. Novel object recognition and Morris water maze tests were performed to observe learning and memory behavior in mice. Protein levels of Iba1, GFAP, MAP2, TNF-α, Tβ4, C-fos, IKK-β, IKB-α, NF-κBp65, phospho-NF-κBp65 in the hippocampus were examined by immunostaining or western blotting. Aβ1-42-treatment inducing learning and memory decline was shown in novel object recognition and Morris water maze tests; neuroinflammation shown in immunostaining. Our study found out that 5-HT1AR inhibitor WAY100635 showed significant improvement in Aβ-induced learning and memory decline. Moreover, WAY100635 decreases levels of Iba1, GFAP, and TNF-α in the hippocampus, which were related to neuroinflammation. While treatment with 5-HT1AR agonist 8-OH-DPAT or ERK inhibitor U0126 exerted no effects or even aggravated Aβ-induced learning and memory decline. In addition, WAY100635 could downregulate phospho-NF-κB in the hippocampus of Aβ1-42-injected mice. These results provide new insight into the mechanism, for 5-HT1AR in Aβ-induced cognitive impairments through crosstalk with the NF-κB signaling pathway. Our data indicated that WAY100635 was involved in the protective effects against neuroinflammation and improvement of learning and memory in Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Wang
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histology-Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, 76 Yanta West, China
| | - Hang-Fan Zong
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histology-Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, 76 Yanta West, China
| | - Ke-Wei Chang
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histology-Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, 76 Yanta West, China
| | - Hua Han
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histology-Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, 76 Yanta West, China; Institute of Neuroscience, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, China; Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases (Xi'an Jiaotong University), Ministry of Education of China, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, 76 Yanta West Road, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Mohammad Yasir Rizvi
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histology-Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, 76 Yanta West, China
| | - Saema Iffat Neha
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histology-Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, 76 Yanta West, China
| | - Zhi-Yi Li
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histology-Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, 76 Yanta West, China
| | - Wei-Na Yang
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histology-Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, 76 Yanta West, China; Institute of Neuroscience, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, China; Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases (Xi'an Jiaotong University), Ministry of Education of China, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, 76 Yanta West Road, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Yi-Hua Qian
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histology-Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, 76 Yanta West, China; Institute of Neuroscience, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, China; Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases (Xi'an Jiaotong University), Ministry of Education of China, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, 76 Yanta West Road, Xi'an 710061, China.
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13
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Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Enhance Ovarian Cancer Growth and Metastasis by Increasing Thymosin Beta 4X-Linked Expression. Stem Cells Int 2019; 2019:9037197. [PMID: 31781249 PMCID: PMC6855023 DOI: 10.1155/2019/9037197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2018] [Revised: 04/17/2019] [Accepted: 08/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
As shown in our previous studies, growth and metastasis of ovarian cancer can be regulated by adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADSCs). However, the underlying mechanism has not yet been revealed. In this study, a proteomics analysis was performed to compare protein expression treated with and without ADSCs in ovarian cancer cells. Protein levels were altered in ovarian cancer cells due to the treatment of ADSCs. Thymosin beta 4 X-linked (TMSB4X) levels changed dramatically, and this protein was identified as one of the most important candidate molecules contributing to the tumour-promoting effects of ADSCs. Compared with the cells that are cultured in the normal growth medium, the TMSB4X levels cultured in ADSC-conditioned medium increased significantly in ovarian cancer cells. Furthermore, the growth and invasion of cancer cells were decreased, even in the ADSC-conditioned medium treatment group (P < 0.05), by the inhibition of TMSB4X. As shown in the bioluminescence images captured in vivo, increased ovarian cancer's growth and metastasis, along with elevated TMSB4X expression, were observed in the group of ADSC-conditioned medium, and the tumour-promoting effect of ADSCs was attenuated by the inhibition of TMSB4X. Based on our findings, increased TMSB4X expression may play a role in accelerating the ADSC-mediated proliferation, invasion, and migration of ovarian cancers.
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14
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Shah R, Reyes-Gordillo K, Cheng Y, Varatharajalu R, Ibrahim J, Lakshman MR. Thymosin β4 Prevents Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and Fibrosis in Ethanol- and LPS-Induced Liver Injury in Mice. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2018; 2018:9630175. [PMID: 30116499 PMCID: PMC6079392 DOI: 10.1155/2018/9630175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2018] [Revised: 03/25/2018] [Accepted: 04/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Thymosin beta 4 (Tβ4), an actin-sequestering protein, is involved in tissue development and regeneration. It prevents inflammation and fibrosis in several tissues. We investigated the role of Tβ4 in chronic ethanol- and acute lipopolysaccharide- (LPS-) induced mouse liver injury. C57BL/6 mice were fed 5% ethanol in liquid diet for 4 weeks plus binge ethanol (5 g/kg, gavage) with or without LPS (2 mg/kg, intraperitoneal) for 6 hours. Tβ4 (1 mg/kg, intraperitoneal) was administered for 1 week. We demonstrated that Tβ4 prevented ethanol- and LPS-mediated increase in liver injury markers as well as changes in liver pathology. It also prevented ethanol- and LPS-mediated increase in oxidative stress by decreasing ROS and lipid peroxidation and increasing the antioxidants, reduced glutathione and manganese-dependent superoxide dismutase. It also prevented the activation of nuclear factor kappa B by blocking the phosphorylation of the inhibitory protein, IκB, thereby prevented proinflammatory cytokine production. Moreover, Tβ4 prevented fibrogenesis by suppressing the epigenetic repressor, methyl-CpG-binding protein 2, that coordinately reversed the expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ and downregulated fibrogenic genes, platelet-derived growth factor-β receptor, α-smooth muscle actin, collagen 1, and fibronectin, resulting in reduced fibrosis. Our data suggest that Tβ4 has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antifibrotic potential during alcoholic liver injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruchi Shah
- Lipid Research Laboratory, VA Medical Center, 50 Irving Street NW, Washington, DC, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, The George Washington University Medical Center, 2300 I Street NW, Washington, DC, USA
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, The George Washington University, 2300 I Street NW, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Karina Reyes-Gordillo
- Lipid Research Laboratory, VA Medical Center, 50 Irving Street NW, Washington, DC, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, The George Washington University Medical Center, 2300 I Street NW, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Ying Cheng
- Lipid Research Laboratory, VA Medical Center, 50 Irving Street NW, Washington, DC, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, The George Washington University Medical Center, 2300 I Street NW, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Ravi Varatharajalu
- Lipid Research Laboratory, VA Medical Center, 50 Irving Street NW, Washington, DC, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, The George Washington University Medical Center, 2300 I Street NW, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Joseph Ibrahim
- Lipid Research Laboratory, VA Medical Center, 50 Irving Street NW, Washington, DC, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, The George Washington University Medical Center, 2300 I Street NW, Washington, DC, USA
| | - M. Raj Lakshman
- Lipid Research Laboratory, VA Medical Center, 50 Irving Street NW, Washington, DC, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, The George Washington University Medical Center, 2300 I Street NW, Washington, DC, USA
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15
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Stark C, Taimen P, Savunen T, Koskenvuo J. Pegylated and liposomal doxorubicin is associated with high mortality and causes limited cardiotoxicity in mice. BMC Res Notes 2018; 11:148. [PMID: 29467032 PMCID: PMC5822632 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-018-3260-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2017] [Accepted: 01/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective We wanted to determine the impact of different doses of a pegylated and liposomal formulation of the cardiotoxic drug doxorubicin on cardiac function, fibrosis and survival in mice. The drug causes myocardial damage by producing reactive oxygen species, mitochondrial damage and lipid peroxidation. Thymosin beta 4 is a peptide with cardioprotective, anti-oxidant and anti-fibrotic properties and we further investigated whether the peptide could attenuate this drug-induced injury by measuring cardiac function and fibrosis. Results Mice receiving high doses of doxorubicin died early during follow-up. Lowering the dose improved survival but did not markedly impair cardiac function on echocardiography and caused only limited fibrosis on histology. Thymosin beta 4 had only a mild protective effect on early cardiac function and did not significantly influence myocardial fibrosis. In conclusion, the use of pegylated and liposomal doxorubicin was not appropriate for inducing experimental cardiomyopathy. Thymosin beta 4 therapy was not beneficial in this setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christoffer Stark
- Research Center of Applied and Preventive Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Turku, Kiinamyllynkatu 10, 20520, Turku, Finland.
| | - Pekka Taimen
- Department of Pathology, Turku University Hospital and University of Turku, Kiinamyllynkatu 4-8, 20520, Turku, Finland
| | - Timo Savunen
- Research Center of Applied and Preventive Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Turku, Kiinamyllynkatu 10, 20520, Turku, Finland
| | - Juha Koskenvuo
- Research Center of Applied and Preventive Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Turku, Kiinamyllynkatu 10, 20520, Turku, Finland
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16
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Jiang Y, Han T, Zhang ZG, Zhang Y, Qi FX. Serum thymosin beta4 as a noninvasive biomarker in patients with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. REVISTA ESPANOLA DE ENFERMEDADES DIGESTIVAS 2017; 110:19-24. [PMID: 29271227 DOI: 10.17235/reed.2017.4690/2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of the study was to determine whether serum thymosin beta4 (Tβ4) can be a useful noninvasive biomarker to differentiate between nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and nonalcoholic fatty liver (NAFL). METHODS The study included 24 NAFL patients and 21 NASH patients. The levels of Tβ4, 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine acid (8-OhdG), liver function parameters, blood lipid, and glucose were detected in the venous blood of all patients. The NAFLD histological activity score (NAS) was examined in biopsy specimens from all patients. Statistical analysis was performed in order to find differences between the two abovementioned groups. In addition, receiver operator characteristic (ROC) analyses for alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and Tβ4 levels were performed in NAFL and NASH patients and the cut-off value was determined. Associations between the variables were tested using correlation coefficient calculations. Statistical significance was set at a p value of < 0.05. RESULTS Serum Tβ4 content was 5.12 ± 1.87 mg/l in the NAFL group and 2.98 ± 1.35 mg/l in the NASH group (p < 0.001). Serum Tβ4 content and NAS, histological features of hepatic steatosis, lobular inflammation and ballooning, ALT, glucose and 8-OhdG levels were negatively correlated (p < 0.05 for all) in the NASH group. The correlation coefficient values were -0.530, -0.562, -0.574, -0.438, -0.446, -0.426 and -0.563, respectively. On the basis of ROC analysis, the best predictive Tβ4 cut-off value for detecting NASH was 3.94 mg/l (85.7% sensitivity and 79.2% specificity, which were higher than those of ALT). CONCLUSION Serum Tβ4 level can be used as a biomarker for the diagnosis of NASH and was negatively correlated with the oxidation state of the liver.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Jiang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, CHINA
| | - Tao Han
- Department of Hepatology, Tianjin Third Central Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300170,China;
| | - Zhi-Guang Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300211, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300211, China
| | - Feng-Xiang Qi
- Department of Gastroenterology, Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300211, China
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17
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Jiang Y, Han T, Zhang ZG, Li M, Qi FX, Zhang Y, Ji YL. Potential role of thymosin beta 4 in the treatment of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Chronic Dis Transl Med 2017; 3:165-168. [PMID: 29063072 PMCID: PMC5643779 DOI: 10.1016/j.cdtm.2017.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
As a result of increased prevalence of obesity worldwide, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has become one of the most common causes of chronic liver disease. Although most NAFLD cases remain benign, some progress to end-stage liver diseases such as cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Therefore, treatment should be considered for NAFLD patients who are likely to progress to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) or fibrosis. Thymosin beta 4 (Tβ4), a G-actin sequestering peptide, regulates actin polymerization in mammalian cells. In addition, studies have reported anti-inflammatory, insulin-sensitizing, and anti-fibrotic effects of Tβ4. However, no research has been done to investigate the effects of Tβ4 on NAFLD. Based on the findings above mentioned, we hypothesize that Tβ4 may represent an effective treatment for NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Jiang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300211, China.,Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Tianjin Third Central Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Tao Han
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Tianjin Third Central Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Zhi-Guang Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300211, China
| | - Man Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300211, China
| | - Feng-Xiang Qi
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300211, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300211, China
| | - Ying-Lan Ji
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300211, China
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18
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Thymosin β4 attenuates liver fibrosis via suppressing Notch signaling. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2017; 493:1396-1401. [PMID: 28965947 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2017.09.156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2017] [Accepted: 09/27/2017] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Thymosin β4 (Tβ4) has been shown to have beneficial effects in a number of pathological processes. Although there was research reporting the endogenous expression of Tβ4 influences hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) activation, the effect of exogenous administration of Tβ4 in hepatic fibrosis remains unclear. In the current study, we used CCl4-induced liver fibrosis model mice to investigate the effect of Tβ4 administration on fibrosis in vivo and the underlying mechanism. Our study indicates that Tβ4 attenuates hepatic fibrosis and down-regulates the expression of fibrogenic genes in hepatic liver. In addition, Tβ4 inhibits the expression of pro fibrogenic and proliferation genes in activated HSCs. Further study revealed that Tβ4 attenuates liver fibrosis through inhibition of the Notch signaling, as Tβ4 significantly reduces the expression of Notch2 and Notch 3 that were increased in hepatic liver. Our data indicate that Tβ4 might be an effective anti-fibrotic drug for the treatment of liver fibrosis.
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19
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Santini MP, Forte E, Harvey RP, Kovacic JC. Developmental origin and lineage plasticity of endogenous cardiac stem cells. Development 2016; 143:1242-58. [PMID: 27095490 DOI: 10.1242/dev.111591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Over the past two decades, several populations of cardiac stem cells have been described in the adult mammalian heart. For the most part, however, their lineage origins and in vivo functions remain largely unexplored. This Review summarizes what is known about different populations of embryonic and adult cardiac stem cells, including KIT(+), PDGFRα(+), ISL1(+)and SCA1(+)cells, side population cells, cardiospheres and epicardial cells. We discuss their developmental origins and defining characteristics, and consider their possible contribution to heart organogenesis and regeneration. We also summarize the origin and plasticity of cardiac fibroblasts and circulating endothelial progenitor cells, and consider what role these cells have in contributing to cardiac repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Paola Santini
- Cardiovascular Research Centre, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York City, NY, USA
| | - Elvira Forte
- Developmental and Stem Cell Biology Division, Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, 405 Liverpool Street, Darlinghurst 2010, Australia St Vincent's Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Kensington 2052, Australia Stem Cells Australia, Melbourne Brain Centre, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Richard P Harvey
- Developmental and Stem Cell Biology Division, Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, 405 Liverpool Street, Darlinghurst 2010, Australia St Vincent's Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Kensington 2052, Australia Stem Cells Australia, Melbourne Brain Centre, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University of New South Wales, Kensington 2052, Australia
| | - Jason C Kovacic
- Cardiovascular Research Centre, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York City, NY, USA Stem Cells Australia, Melbourne Brain Centre, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
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20
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Xiang MSW, Kikuchi K. Endogenous Mechanisms of Cardiac Regeneration. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2016; 326:67-131. [PMID: 27572127 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ircmb.2016.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Zebrafish possess a remarkable capacity for cardiac regeneration throughout their lifetime, providing a model for investigating endogenous cellular and molecular mechanisms regulating myocardial regeneration. By contrast, adult mammals have an extremely limited capacity for cardiac regeneration, contributing to mortality and morbidity from cardiac diseases such as myocardial infarction and heart failure. However, the viewpoint of the mammalian heart as a postmitotic organ was recently revised based on findings that the mammalian heart contains multiple undifferentiated cell types with cardiogenic potential as well as a robust regenerative capacity during a short period early in life. Although it occurs at an extremely low level, continuous cardiomyocyte turnover has been detected in adult mouse and human hearts, which could potentially be enhanced to restore lost myocardium in damaged human hearts. This review summarizes and discusses recent advances in the understanding of endogenous mechanisms of cardiac regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- M S W Xiang
- Developmental and Stem Cell Biology Division, Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Darlinghurst NSW, Australia
| | - K Kikuchi
- Developmental and Stem Cell Biology Division, Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Darlinghurst NSW, Australia; St. Vincent's Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Kensington NSW, Australia.
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Abstract
Liver fibrosis, a major characteristic of chronic liver disease, is inappropriate tissue remodeling caused by prolonged parenchymal cell injury and inflammation. During liver injury, hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) undergo transdifferentiation from quiescent HSCs into activated HSCs, which promote the deposition of extracellular matrix proteins, leading to liver fibrosis. Thymosin beta 4 (Tβ4), a major actin-sequestering protein, is the most abundant member of the highly conserved β-thymosin family and controls cell morphogenesis and motility by regulating the dynamics of the actin cytoskeleton. Tβ4 is known to be involved in various cellular responses, including antiinflammation, wound healing, angiogenesis, and cancer progression. Emerging evidence suggests that Tβ4 is expressed in the liver; however, its biological roles are poorly understood. Herein, we introduce liver fibrogenesis and recent findings regarding the function of Tβ4 in various tissues and discuss the potential role of Tβ4 in liver fibrosis with a special focus on the effects of exogenous and endogenous Tβ4. Recent studies have revealed that activated HSCs express Tβ4 in vivo and in vitro. Treatment with the exogenous Tβ4 peptide inhibits the proliferation and migration of activated HSCs and reduces liver fibrosis, indicating it has an antifibrotic action. Meanwhile, the endogenously expressed Tβ4 in activated HSCs is shown to promote HSCs activation. Although the role of Tβ4 has not been elucidated, it is apparent that Tβ4 is associated with HSC activation. Therefore, understanding the potential roles and regulatory mechanisms of Tβ4 in liver fibrosis may provide a novel treatment for patients.
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Wang YY, Zhu QS, Wang YW, Yin RF. Thymosin Beta-4 Recombinant Adeno-associated Virus Enhances Human Nucleus Pulposus Cell Proliferation and Reduces Cell Apoptosis and Senescence. Chin Med J (Engl) 2016; 128:1529-35. [PMID: 26021512 PMCID: PMC4733779 DOI: 10.4103/0366-6999.157686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Thymosin beta-4 (TB-4) is considered key roles in tissue development, maintenance and pathological processes. The study aimed to prove TB-4 positive biological function on nucleus pulposus (NP) cell apoptosis and slowing the process of cell aging while increasing the cell proliferation. Methods: TB-4 recombinant adeno-associated virus (AAV) was constructed and induced to human NP cells. Cell of same group were cultured without gene modification as controlled group. Proliferation capacity and cell apoptosis were observed during 6 passages of the cells. Morphology and expression of the TB-4 gene were documented as parameter of cell activity during cell passage. Results: NP cells with TB-4 transfection has normal TB-4 expression and exocytosis. NP cells with TB-4 transfection performed significantly higher cell activity than that at the control group in each generation. TB-4 recombinant AAV-transfected human NP cells also show slower cell aging, lower cell apoptosis and higher cell proliferation than control group. Conclusions: TB-4 can prevent NP cell apoptosis, slow NP cell aging and promote NP cell proliferation. AAV transfection technique was able to highly and stably express TB-4 in human NP cells, which may provide a new pathway for innovation in the treatment of intervertebral disc degenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Ruo-Feng Yin
- Department of Orthopedics, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, China
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23
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Abstract
Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a metabolic disorder resulting from defective insulin production and characterized by chronic hyperglycemia. DM affects around 170 million people worldwide and its incidence is increasing globally. DM can cause a wide range of musculoskeletal disorders such as painful tendinopathies, tendon contracture, tendon rupture, and rotator cuff tear.In patients with diabetes neuropathy, diminished peripheral blood flow and decreased local angiogenesis are reported which probably are results of abnormalities in the production of collagen production, inflammatory mediators, angiogenic and growth factors and also contribute to lack of healing in damaged tissue. Abnormal or delayed wound healing is one of the main complications of both type-I and type-II DM.
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Trenkwalder T, Deindl E, Bongiovanni D, Lee S, Schunkert H, Kupatt C, Hinkel R. Thymosin-β4-mediated therapeutic neovascularization: role of the PI3K/AKT pathway. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2015; 15 Suppl 1:S175-85. [PMID: 25652683 DOI: 10.1517/14712598.2015.1011122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Thymosin β4 (Tβ4) is known to have pro-angogenic abilities in vitro and in vivo, and its cardioprotective effect is PI3/AKT-dependent. Tβ4-induced vessel formation requires transcriptional activation via the MRTF/SRF pathway. However, the relevance of PI3/AKT signaling for Tβ4-induced angiogenesis remains unclear. Here, we analyzed the PI3K/AKT cascade after Tβ4 transduction in models of chronic hindlimb ischemia. METHODS Tube formation assays of endothelial cells transfected with Tβ4 ± AKT-dn or PI3Kα/Rho inhibition were performed. In mice, rAAV.Tβ4 was injected (intramuscular [i.m.]) 14 days before femoral artery ligation. In addition, either rAAV.AKT-dn was co-applied or Rho/PI3K/AKT pathways were inhibited. Capillary density and hindlimb perfusion were obtained. In rabbits, chronic ischemia was induced by femoral artery excision and subsequent i.m. injection of rAAV.Tβ4 ± rAAV.AKT-dn. Analyses of capillary density, collateral formation and perfusion were performed. RESULTS Tβ4-induced ring formation was blunted by inhibiting the Rho-kinase (ROCK) or the PI3K/AKT pathway. In vivo, Tβ4 transduction induced angiogenesis and perfusion, an effect abrogated by inhibition of Rho-signaling, or PI3Kα/AKT. In the rabbit model, inhibition of AKT in the lower limb not only abolished angiogenesis but also collateral formation. CONCLUSION Tβ4 requires PI3Kα/AKT pathway signaling for induction of therapeutic neovascularization in ischemic limb disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Trenkwalder
- Deutsches Herzzentrum München, Technische Universität , Munich , Germany
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25
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Wang Q, Ma S, Li D, Zhang Y, Tang B, Qiu C, Yang Y, Yang D. Dietary capsaicin ameliorates pressure overload-induced cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis through the transient receptor potential vanilloid type 1. Am J Hypertens 2014; 27:1521-9. [PMID: 24858305 DOI: 10.1093/ajh/hpu068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dietary capsaicin plays a protective role in hypertension, atherosclerosis, obesity, and hyperlipidemia through activating the transient receptor potential vanilloid type 1 (TRPV1), a nonselective cation channel. This study was designed to investigate the role of capsaicin in cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis in a pressure overload model. METHODS TRPV1 knockout (KO) mice and their wild-type (WT) littermates, aged 8 weeks, were randomly divided into sham and aortic banding surgery groups and were fed with chow or chow plus capsaicin for 10 weeks. RESULTS Dietary capsaicin significantly attenuates pressure overload-induced increase in heart weight index, enlargement of ventricular volume, decrease in cardiac function, and increase in cardiac fibrosis in WT mice. However, these effects of capsaicin were absent in TRPV1 KO mice. Additionally, capsaicin blunted pressure overload-induced upregulation of transforming growth factor β, connective tissue growth factor, and the phosphorylation of Smad2/3 in WT mice but not in TRPV1 KO mice. Moreover, capsaicin attenuated pressure overload-induced overexpression of metalloproteinase (MMP)-2, MMP-9 and MMP-13 in WT mice but not in TRPV1 KO mice. Capsaicin also attenuated angiotensin II-induced proliferation of cardiac fibroblasts from mice with the TRPV1 channel. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that dietary capsaicin protects against cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis in pressure overload mice through TRPV1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Chengdu Military General Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Shuangtao Ma
- Department of Cardiology, Chengdu Military General Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China
| | - De Li
- Department of Cardiology, Chengdu Military General Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, Chengdu Military General Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Bing Tang
- Department of Cardiology, Chengdu Military General Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Chenming Qiu
- Department of Cardiology, Chengdu Military General Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Yongjian Yang
- Department of Cardiology, Chengdu Military General Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Dachun Yang
- Department of Cardiology, Chengdu Military General Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China.
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Ahmed AS, Li J, Schizas N, Ahmed M, Ostenson CG, Salo P, Hewitt C, Hart DA, Ackermann PW. Expressional changes in growth and inflammatory mediators during Achilles tendon repair in diabetic rats: new insights into a possible basis for compromised healing. Cell Tissue Res 2014; 357:109-17. [PMID: 24797839 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-014-1871-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2013] [Accepted: 03/13/2014] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Dysregulation of growth and inflammatory mediators might contribute to defective tissue homeostasis and healing, as commonly observed in sedentary lifestyles and in conditions such as diabetes mellitus type-2. The present study aims to assess expression changes in growth and inflammatory mediators in the intact and healing Achilles tendon of type-2 diabetic rats. The study utilized 11 male diabetic Goto-Kakizaki (GK) and 10 age- and sex-matched Wistar control rats. The right Achilles tendon was transected in all animals, whereas the left Achilles tendon remained intact. At 2 weeks post-injury, intact and injured tendons were assessed for gene expression for VEGF, Tβ-4, TGF-β1, IGF-1, COX-2, iNOS, HIF-1α, and IL-1β by quantitative reverse transcription plus the polymerase chain reaction, and their protein distribution was studied by immunolocalization. In injured tendons of diabetic GK rats, VEGF and Tβ-4 mRNA and corresponding protein levels were significantly down-regulated compared with those of injured Wistar controls. Compared with intact tendons of diabetic GK rats, TGF-β1, IGF-1, and COX-2 RNA levels were higher, whereas iNOS mRNA levels were lower in injured tendons of diabetic GK rats. Within Wistar controls, healing at 2 weeks post-injury led to significantly down-regulated VEGF and iNOS mRNA levels in injured tendons, whereas TGF-β1 and HIF-1α mRNA levels increased compared with intact tendons. Thus, dysregulation of inflammatory and growth mediators occurs in type-2 diabetes injured tendons. Our data suggest that therapeutic modulation of Tβ-4 and VEGF represent a new regenerative approach in operated, injured, or degenerative tendon diseases in diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aisha S Ahmed
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, 17177, Stockholm, Sweden,
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27
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Thakur S, Li L, Gupta S. NF-κB-mediated integrin-linked kinase regulation in angiotensin II-induced pro-fibrotic process in cardiac fibroblasts. Life Sci 2014; 107:68-75. [PMID: 24802124 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2014.04.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2014] [Revised: 04/24/2014] [Accepted: 04/25/2014] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Cardiac fibrosis is a final outcome of many clinical conditions that lead to cardiac failure and is characterized by a progressive substitution of cellular elements by extracellular-matrix proteins, such as collagen type I, collagen type II, connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), etc. The aim of this study was to identify the mechanisms responsible for angiotensin II (Ang II)-stimulated cardiac fibrosis using rat neonatal cardiac fibroblasts. MAIN METHODS Neonatal fibroblasts were transfected with IκBα mutant, constitutively active (ca) integrin-linked kinase (ILK), dominant negative of ILK and small interfering RNA (siRNA) of ILK in the presence and absence of Ang-II stimulation. The pro-fibrotic gene expression and protein levels were determined by quantitative real time PCR and western blotting using their specific probes and antibodies. NF-κB translocation was determined by immunocytochemistry and confocal microscopy images were analyzed. KEY FINDINGS Our results indicate that overexpression of ILK promotes a pro-fibrotic process by upregulating collagen type I and CTGF genes via activation of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) in cardiac fibroblasts. Inactivation of either NF-κB by the super-repressor IκBα or ILK by siRNA significantly attenuates the pro-fibrotic process. Moreover, ILK overexpression triggers NF-κB-p65 translocation to the nucleus, and ILK inhibition prevents the translocation in cardiac fibroblasts stimulated with Ang II. SIGNIFICANCE Our data suggest that the Ang II-stimulated pro-fibrotic process is regulated by a complex mechanism involving crosstalk between ILK and NF-κB activation. This dual mechanism may play a critical role in the progression of cardiac fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suresh Thakur
- Division of Molecular Cardiology, Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, Texas A & M Health Science Center; Scott & White; Central Texas Veterans Health Care System, Temple, TX, USA
| | - Li Li
- Division of Molecular Cardiology, Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, Texas A & M Health Science Center; Scott & White; Central Texas Veterans Health Care System, Temple, TX, USA
| | - Sudhiranjan Gupta
- Division of Molecular Cardiology, Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, Texas A & M Health Science Center; Scott & White; Central Texas Veterans Health Care System, Temple, TX, USA.
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Thymosin β4-sulfoxide attenuates inflammatory cell infiltration and promotes cardiac wound healing. Nat Commun 2013; 4:2081. [PMID: 23820300 PMCID: PMC3797509 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms3081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2013] [Accepted: 05/30/2013] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The downstream consequences of inflammation in the adult mammalian heart are formation of a non-functional scar, pathological remodelling and heart failure. In zebrafish, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) released from a wound is the initial instructive chemotactic cue for the infiltration of inflammatory cells, however, the identity of a subsequent resolution signal(s), to attenuate chronic inflammation, remains unknown. Here we reveal that Thymosin β4-Sulfoxide inhibits interferon-γ, and increases monocyte dispersal and cell death, lies downstream of H2O2 in the wounded fish and triggers depletion of inflammatory macrophages at the injury site. This function is conserved in the mouse and observed after cardiac injury, where it promotes wound healing and reduced scarring. In human T cell/CD14+ monocyte co-cultures, Tβ4-SO inhibits IFN-γ and increases monocyte dispersal and cell death, likely by stimulating superoxide production. Thus, Tβ4-SO is a putative target for therapeutic modulation of the immune response, resolution of fibrosis and cardiac repair.
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