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Zhao Y, Sun B, Fu X, Zuo Z, Qin H, Yao K. YAP in development and disease: Navigating the regulatory landscape from retina to brain. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 175:116703. [PMID: 38713948 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2024] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/09/2024] Open
Abstract
The distinctive role of Yes-associated protein (YAP) in the nervous system has attracted widespread attention. This comprehensive review strategically uses the retina as a vantage point, embarking on an extensive exploration of YAP's multifaceted impact from the retina to the brain in development and pathology. Initially, we explore the crucial roles of YAP in embryonic and cerebral development. Our focus then shifts to retinal development, examining in detail YAP's regulatory influence on the development of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and retinal progenitor cells (RPCs), and its significant effects on the hierarchical structure and functionality of the retina. We also investigate the essential contributions of YAP in maintaining retinal homeostasis, highlighting its precise regulation of retinal cell proliferation and survival. In terms of retinal-related diseases, we explore the epigenetic connections and pathophysiological regulation of YAP in diabetic retinopathy (DR), glaucoma, and proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR). Lastly, we broaden our exploration from the retina to the brain, emphasizing the research paradigm of "retina: a window to the brain." Special focus is given to the emerging studies on YAP in brain disorders such as Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD), underlining its potential therapeutic value in neurodegenerative disorders and neuroinflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaqin Zhao
- Institute of Visual Neuroscience and Stem Cell Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430065, China; College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430065, China
| | - Bin Sun
- Institute of Visual Neuroscience and Stem Cell Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430065, China; College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430065, China
| | - Xuefei Fu
- Institute of Visual Neuroscience and Stem Cell Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430065, China; College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430065, China
| | - Zhuan Zuo
- Institute of Visual Neuroscience and Stem Cell Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430065, China; College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430065, China
| | - Huan Qin
- Institute of Visual Neuroscience and Stem Cell Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430065, China; College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430065, China.
| | - Kai Yao
- Institute of Visual Neuroscience and Stem Cell Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430065, China; College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430065, China.
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Sun MT, Cotton RM, Charoenkijkajorn C, Garcia-Sanchez J, Dalal R, Xia X, Lin JH, Singh K, Goldberg JL, Liu WW. Evaluation of Verteporfin as a Novel Antifibrotic Agent in a Rabbit Model of Glaucoma Filtration Surgery: A Pilot Study. OPHTHALMOLOGY SCIENCE 2024; 4:100448. [PMID: 38261964 PMCID: PMC10797546 DOI: 10.1016/j.xops.2023.100448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
Purpose Verteporfin is a benzoporphyrin derivative which is Food and Drug Administration-approved for treatment of choroidal neovascularization in conjunction with photodynamic therapy. It has been shown to prevent fibrosis and scar formation in several organs and represents a promising novel antifibrotic agent for glaucoma surgery. The goal of this study is to determine the effect of verteporfin on wound healing after glaucoma filtration surgery. Design Preclinical study using a rabbit model of glaucoma filtration surgery. Subjects Eight New Zealand white rabbits underwent glaucoma filtration surgery in both eyes. Methods Eyes were randomized into 4 study groups to receive a postoperative subconjunctival injection of 1 mg/mL verteporfin (n = 4), 0.4 mg/mL mitomycin C (MMC; n = 4), 0.4 mg/mL MMC + 1 mg/mL verteporfin (n = 4), or balanced salt solution (BSS) control (n = 4). Bleb survival, vascularity, and morphology were graded using a standard scale over a 30-day period, and intraocular pressure (IOP) was monitored. At 30 days postoperative or surgical failure, histology was performed to evaluate for inflammation, local toxicity, and scarring. Main Outcome Measures The primary outcome measure was bleb survival. Secondary outcome measures were IOP, bleb morphology, and bleb histology. Results Compared to BSS control blebs, verteporfin-treated blebs demonstrated a trend toward increased surgical survival (mean 9.8 vs. 7.3 days, log rank P = 0.08). Mitomycin C-treated blebs survived significantly longer than verteporfin-treated blebs (log rank P = 0.009), with all but 1 MMC-treated bleb still surviving at postoperative day 30. There were no significant differences in survival between blebs treated with combination verteporfin + MMC and MMC alone. Mitomycin C-treated blebs were less vascular than verteporfin-treated blebs (mean vascularity score 0.3 ± 0.5 for MMC vs. 1.0 ± 0.0 for verteporfin, P < 0.01). Bleb histology did not reveal any significant toxicity in verteporfin-treated eyes. There were no significant differences in inflammation or scarring across groups. Conclusions Although verteporfin remained inferior to MMC with regard to surgical survival, there was a trend toward increased survival compared with BSS control and it had an excellent safety profile. Further studies with variations in verteporfin dosage and/or application frequency are needed to assess whether this may be a useful adjunct to glaucoma surgery. Financial Disclosures Proprietary or commercial disclosure may be found in the Footnotes and Disclosures at the end of this article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle T. Sun
- Spencer Center for Vision Research, Byers Eye Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California
| | - Renee M. Cotton
- Department of Comparative Medicine, Stanford University, Palo Alto, California
| | - Chaow Charoenkijkajorn
- Spencer Center for Vision Research, Byers Eye Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California
| | - Julian Garcia-Sanchez
- Spencer Center for Vision Research, Byers Eye Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California
| | - Roopa Dalal
- Spencer Center for Vision Research, Byers Eye Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California
| | - Xin Xia
- Spencer Center for Vision Research, Byers Eye Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California
| | - Jonathan H. Lin
- Spencer Center for Vision Research, Byers Eye Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California
| | - Kuldev Singh
- Spencer Center for Vision Research, Byers Eye Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California
| | - Jeffrey L. Goldberg
- Spencer Center for Vision Research, Byers Eye Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California
| | - Wendy W. Liu
- Spencer Center for Vision Research, Byers Eye Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California
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Kwon Y. YAP/TAZ as Molecular Targets in Skeletal Muscle Atrophy and Osteoporosis. Aging Dis 2024:AD.2024.0306. [PMID: 38502585 DOI: 10.14336/ad.2024.0306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Skeletal muscles and bones are closely connected anatomically and functionally. Age-related degeneration in these tissues is associated with physical disability in the elderly and significantly impacts their quality of life. Understanding the mechanisms of age-related musculoskeletal tissue degeneration is crucial for identifying molecular targets for therapeutic interventions for skeletal muscle atrophy and osteoporosis. The Hippo pathway is a recently identified signaling pathway that plays critical roles in development, tissue homeostasis, and regeneration. The Yes-associated protein (YAP) and transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ) are key downstream effectors of the mammalian Hippo signaling pathway. This review highlights the fundamental roles of YAP and TAZ in the homeostatic maintenance and regeneration of skeletal muscles and bones. YAP/TAZ play a significant role in stem cell function by relaying various environmental signals to stem cells. Skeletal muscle atrophy and osteoporosis are related to stem cell dysfunction or senescence triggered by YAP/TAZ dysregulation resulting from reduced mechanosensing and mitochondrial function in stem cells. In contrast, the maintenance of YAP/TAZ activation can suppress stem cell senescence and tissue dysfunction and may be used as a basis for the development of potential therapeutic strategies. Thus, targeting YAP/TAZ holds significant therapeutic potential for alleviating age-related muscle and bone dysfunction and improving the quality of life in the elderly.
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Bao B, Liu J, Li T, Yang Z, Wang G, Xin J, Bi H, Guo D. Elevated retinal fibrosis in experimental myopia is involved in the activation of the PI3K/AKT/ERK signaling pathway. Arch Biochem Biophys 2023; 743:109663. [PMID: 37290701 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2023.109663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to investigate the regulatory role of the PI3K/AKT/ERK signaling pathway in retinal fibrosis in -6.0 diopter (D) lens-induced myopic (LIM) guinea pigs. METHODS Biological measurements of eye tissues were performed on guinea pigs to obtain their refraction, axial length, retinal thickness, physiological function, and fundus retinal status. In addition, Masson staining and immunohistochemical (IHC) assay were further done to explore the changes in retinal morphology after myopic induction. Meanwhile, hydroxyproline (HYP) content was measured to evaluate the degree of retinal fibrosis. Moreover, the levels of the PI3K/AKT/ERK signaling pathway and fibrosis-related molecules in retinal tissues including matrix metalloproteinase 2(MMP2), collagen type I (Collagen I), and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) were detected by real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR) and Western blot. RESULTS The LIM guinea pigs showed a significant myopic shift in refractive error and an increase in axial length compared with those of the normal control (NC) group. Masson staining, hydroxyproline content determination, and IHC showed an increase in retinal fibrosis. After myopic induction, qPCR and western blot analyses showed that phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase catalytic subunit α (PIK3CA), protein kinase B (AKT), extracellular regulated protein kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2), MMP2, Collagen I, and α-SMA were consistently elevated in the LIM group than those in the NC group. CONCLUSION The PI3K/AKT/ERK signaling pathway was activated in the retinal tissues of myopic guinea pigs, which exaggerated fibrotic lesions and reduced retinal thickness, ultimately leading to retinal physiological dysfunctions in myopic guinea pigs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Bao
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250002, China
| | - Jinpeng Liu
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250002, China
| | - Tuling Li
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250002, China
| | - Zhaohui Yang
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250002, China
| | - Guimin Wang
- Affiliated Eye Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250002, China
| | - Jizhao Xin
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250002, China
| | - Hongsheng Bi
- Affiliated Eye Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250002, China.
| | - Dadong Guo
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine for Prevention and Therapy of Ocular Diseases, Shandong Academy of Eye Disease Prevention and Therapy, Medical College of Optometry and Ophthalmology, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 250002, China.
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Bonente D, Bianchi L, De Salvo R, Nicoletti C, De Benedetto E, Bacci T, Bini L, Inzalaco G, Franci L, Chiariello M, Tosi GM, Bertelli E, Barone V. Co-Expression of Podoplanin and CD44 in Proliferative Vitreoretinopathy Epiretinal Membranes. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24119728. [PMID: 37298679 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24119728] [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: 05/07/2023] [Revised: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Epiretinal membranes (ERMs) are sheets of tissue that pathologically develop in the vitreoretinal interface leading to progressive vision loss. They are formed by different cell types and by an exuberant deposition of extracellular matrix proteins. Recently, we reviewed ERMs' extracellular matrix components to better understand molecular dysfunctions that trigger and fuel the onset and development of this disease. The bioinformatics approach we applied delineated a comprehensive overview on this fibrocellular tissue and on critical proteins that could really impact ERM physiopathology. Our interactomic analysis proposed the hyaluronic-acid-receptor cluster of differentiation 44 (CD44) as a central regulator of ERM aberrant dynamics and progression. Interestingly, the interaction between CD44 and podoplanin (PDPN) was shown to promote directional migration in epithelial cells. PDPN is a glycoprotein overexpressed in various cancers and a growing body of evidence indicates its relevant function in several fibrotic and inflammatory pathologies. The binding of PDPN to partner proteins and/or its ligand results in the modulation of signaling pathways regulating proliferation, contractility, migration, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and extracellular matrix remodeling, all processes that are vital in ERM formation. In this context, the understanding of the PDPN role can help to modulate signaling during fibrosis, hence opening a new line of therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denise Bonente
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Via A. Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Via A. Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Laura Bianchi
- Section of Functional Proteomics, Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Via A. Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Rossana De Salvo
- Section of Functional Proteomics, Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Via A. Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Claudio Nicoletti
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Via A. Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Elena De Benedetto
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Neuroscience, University of Siena, Viale Mario Bracci 16, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Tommaso Bacci
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Neuroscience, University of Siena, Viale Mario Bracci 16, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Luca Bini
- Section of Functional Proteomics, Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Via A. Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Giovanni Inzalaco
- Core Research Laboratory (CRL), Istituto per lo Studio, la Prevenzione e la Rete Oncologica (ISPRO), Via Fiorentina 1, 53100 Siena, Italy
- Istituto di Fisiologia Clinica (IFC), Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), Via Fiorentina 1, 53100 Siena, Italy
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Viale Mario Bracci 16, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Franci
- Core Research Laboratory (CRL), Istituto per lo Studio, la Prevenzione e la Rete Oncologica (ISPRO), Via Fiorentina 1, 53100 Siena, Italy
- Istituto di Fisiologia Clinica (IFC), Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), Via Fiorentina 1, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Mario Chiariello
- Core Research Laboratory (CRL), Istituto per lo Studio, la Prevenzione e la Rete Oncologica (ISPRO), Via Fiorentina 1, 53100 Siena, Italy
- Istituto di Fisiologia Clinica (IFC), Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), Via Fiorentina 1, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Gian Marco Tosi
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Neuroscience, University of Siena, Viale Mario Bracci 16, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Eugenio Bertelli
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Via A. Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Virginia Barone
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Via A. Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
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Zhao Y, Zhang X, Wang G, Wu H, Chen R, Zhang Y, Yang S, Liu L. LXA4 inhibits TGF-β1-induced airway smooth muscle cells proliferation and migration by suppressing the Smad/YAP pathway. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 118:110144. [PMID: 37030120 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.110144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 04/10/2023]
Abstract
The aims of the present study were to examine the signaling mechanisms for transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1)-induced rat airway smooth muscle cells (ASMCs) proliferation and migration and to determine the effect of lipoxin A4 (LXA4) on TGF-β1-induced rat ASMCs proliferation and migration and its underlying mechanisms. TGF-β1 upregulated transcriptional coactivator Yes-associated protein (YAP) expression by activating Smad2/3 and then upregulated cyclin D1, leading to rat ASMCs proliferation and migration. This effect was reversed after treatment with the TGF-β1 receptor inhibitor SB431542. YAP is a critical mediator of TGF-β1-induced ASMCs proliferation and migration. Knockdown of YAP disrupted the pro-airway remodeling function of TGF-β1. Preincubation of rat ASMCs with LXA4 blocked TGF-β1-induced activation of Smad2/3 and changed its downstream targets, YAP and cyclin D1, resulting in the inhibition of rat ASMCs proliferation and migration. Our study suggests that LXA4 suppresses Smad/YAP signaling to inhibit rat ASMCs proliferation and migration and therefore has potential value in the prevention and treatment of asthma by negatively modulating airway remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yali Zhao
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Shaanxi Provincial People's Hospital, No. 256, West Youyi Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710068, PR China
| | - Xiangli Zhang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Shaanxi Provincial People's Hospital, No. 256, West Youyi Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710068, PR China
| | - Guizuo Wang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Shaanxi Provincial People's Hospital, No. 256, West Youyi Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710068, PR China
| | - Hua Wu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Shaanxi Provincial People's Hospital, No. 256, West Youyi Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710068, PR China
| | - Ruilin Chen
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Shaanxi Provincial People's Hospital, No. 256, West Youyi Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710068, PR China
| | - Yongqing Zhang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Shaanxi Provincial People's Hospital, No. 256, West Youyi Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710068, PR China
| | - Shumei Yang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Shaanxi Provincial People's Hospital, No. 256, West Youyi Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710068, PR China
| | - Lu Liu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Shaanxi Provincial People's Hospital, No. 256, West Youyi Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710068, PR China.
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Zhang Y, Che D, Cao Y, Yue Y, He T, Zhu Y, Zhou J. MicroRNA Profiling in the Aqueous Humor of Keratoconus Eyes. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2022; 11:5. [PMID: 36472881 PMCID: PMC9733654 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.11.12.5] [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] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To identify differentially expressed (DE) microRNAs (miRNAs) in the aqueous humor (AH) of keratoconus (KC) eyes using next-generation sequencing and to explore whether DE miRNAs might play roles in KC pathophysiology. Methods The small RNAs in the AH of 15 KC eyes and 15 myopia eyes (the control group) were sequenced on an Illumina NovaSeq 6000 platform. Gene Oncology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genome enrichment analyses were performed. Receiver operating characteristic curves were used to identify potential KC biomarkers. Results We identified 204 miRNAs in the AH of the KC group and 200 in the AH of the control group. Fourteen miRNAs were differentially expressed between the two groups; four miRNAs were upregulated and 10 downregulated in KC AH. The possible pathways regulated by the DE miRNAs included antigen processing and presentation, endocytosis, mismatch repair, and Hippo signaling. The AH concentrations of miR-222-3p, miR-363-3p, and miR-423-5p exhibited areas under the curves of 1. Conclusions We profiled the DE miRNAs of the AH of KC eyes. These miRNAs may be associated with KC pathogenesis and could serve as KC biomarkers. Translational Relevance Data on aberrantly expressed miRNAs in KC combined with bioinformatics analyses suggest possible roles for specific miRNAs. The DE miRNAs may serve as diagnostic KC biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingjie Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, China
| | - Danyang Che
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, China
| | - Yiting Cao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu Yue
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Lab of Ophthalmology, Chongqing Eye Institute, Chongqing Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Chongqing, China
| | - Tianrui He
- Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi Zhu
- Aier Institute of Optometry and Vision Science, Changsha, China,Shanghai Aier Eye Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Jibo Zhou
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, China
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Puerta Cavanzo N, Riesmeijer SA, Holt-Kedde IL, Werker PMN, Piersma B, Olinga P, Bank RA. Verteporfin ameliorates fibrotic aspects of Dupuytren's disease nodular fibroblasts irrespective the activation state of the cells. Sci Rep 2022; 12:13940. [PMID: 35977978 PMCID: PMC9386017 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-18116-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Dupuytren’s disease is a chronic, progressive fibroproliferative condition of the hand fascia which results in digital contraction. So far, treatments do not directly interfere with the (myo)fibroblasts that are responsible for the formation of the collagen-rich cords and its contraction. Here we investigated whether verteporfin (VP) is able to inhibit the activation and subsequent differentiation of DD nodular fibroblasts into myofibroblasts. Fibroblasts were isolated from nodules of 7 Dupuytren patients. Cells are treated (1) for 48 h with 5 ng/ml transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) followed by 48 h with/without 250 nM VP in the absence of TGF-β1, or treated (2) for 48 h with TGF-β1 followed by 48 h with/without VP in the presence of TGF-β1. mRNA levels were measured by means of Real-Time PCR, and proteins were visualized by means of Western blotting and/or immunofluorescence. Quantitative data were statistically analyzed with GraphPad Prism using the paired t-test. We found that fibroblasts activated for 48 h with TGF-β1 show a decrease in mRNA levels of COL1A1, COL3A1, COL4A1, PLOD2, FN1EDA, CCN2 and SERPINE1 when exposed for another 48 h with VP, whereas no decrease is seen for ACTA2, YAP1, SMAD2 and SMAD3 mRNA levels. Cells exposed for an additional 48 h with TGF-β1, but now in the presence of VP, are not further activated anymore, whereas in the absence of VP the cells continue to differentiate into myofibroblasts. Collagen type I, fibronectin-extra domain A, α-smooth muscle actin, YAP1, Smad2 and Smad3 protein levels were attenuated by both VP treatments. We conclude that VP has strong anti-fibrotic properties: it is able to halt the differentiation of fibroblasts into myofibroblasts, and is also able to reverse the activation status of fibroblasts. The decreased protein levels of YAP1, Smad2 and Smad3 in the presence of VP explain in part the strong anti-fibrotic properties of VP. Verteporfin is clinically used as a photosensitizer for photodynamic therapy to eliminate abnormal blood vessels in the eye to attenuate macular degeneration. The antifibrotic properties of VP do not rely on photo-activation, as we used the molecule in its non-photoinduced state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nataly Puerta Cavanzo
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy, Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy, University of Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV, Groningen, The Netherlands.,MATRIX Research Group, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Sophie A Riesmeijer
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Iris L Holt-Kedde
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Paul M N Werker
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Bram Piersma
- MATRIX Research Group, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Peter Olinga
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy, Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy, University of Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Ruud A Bank
- MATRIX Research Group, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ, Groningen, The Netherlands.
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Mechanosensor YAP cooperates with TGF-β1 signaling to promote myofibroblast activation and matrix stiffening in a 3D model of human cardiac fibrosis. Acta Biomater 2022; 152:300-312. [DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2022.08.063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2022] [Revised: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
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Trotta MC, Petrillo F, Gesualdo C, Rossi S, Corte AD, Váradi J, Fenyvesi F, D’Amico M, Hermenean A. Effects of the Calix[4]arene Derivative Compound OTX008 on High Glucose-Stimulated ARPE-19 Cells: Focus on Galectin-1/TGF-β/EMT Pathway. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 27:molecules27154785. [PMID: 35897964 PMCID: PMC9332238 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27154785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Revised: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a neurovascular disease characterized by the reduction of retina integrity and functionality, as a consequence of retinal pigment epithelial cell fibrosis. Although galectin-1 (a glycan-binding protein) has been associated with dysregulated retinal angiogenesis, no evidence has been reported about galectin-1 roles in DR-induced fibrosis. ARPE-19 cells were cultured in normal (5 mM) or high glucose (35 mM) for 3 days, then exposed to the selective galectin-1 inhibitor OTX008 (2.5–5–10 μM) for 6 days. The determination of cell viability and ROS content along with the analysis of specific proteins (by immunocytochemistry, Western blotting, and ELISA) or mRNAs (by real time-PCR) were performed. OTX008 5 μM and 10 μM improved cell viability and markedly reduced galectin-1 protein expression in cells exposed to high glucose. This was paralleled by a down-regulation of the TGF-β/, NF-kB p65 levels, and ROS content. Moreover, epithelial–mesenchymal transition markers were reduced by OTX008 5 μM and 10 μM. The inhibition of galectin-1 by OTX008 in DR may preserve retinal pigment epithelial cell integrity and functionality by reducing their pro-fibrotic phenotype and epithelial–mesenchymal transition phenomenon induced by diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Consiglia Trotta
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (M.C.T.); (M.D.)
| | - Francesco Petrillo
- PhD Course in Translational Medicine, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy;
| | - Carlo Gesualdo
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, Eye Clinic, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (C.G.); (S.R.); (A.D.C.)
| | - Settimio Rossi
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, Eye Clinic, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (C.G.); (S.R.); (A.D.C.)
| | - Alberto Della Corte
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, Eye Clinic, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (C.G.); (S.R.); (A.D.C.)
| | - Judit Váradi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Debrecen, Nagyerdei St. 98, H-4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (J.V.); (F.F.)
| | - Ferenc Fenyvesi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Debrecen, Nagyerdei St. 98, H-4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (J.V.); (F.F.)
| | - Michele D’Amico
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (M.C.T.); (M.D.)
| | - Anca Hermenean
- Faculty of Medicine, Vasile Goldis Western University of Arad, 310414 Arad, Romania
- Correspondence:
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11
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New Insights into Hippo/YAP Signaling in Fibrotic Diseases. Cells 2022; 11:cells11132065. [PMID: 35805148 PMCID: PMC9265296 DOI: 10.3390/cells11132065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Revised: 06/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis results from defective wound healing processes often seen after chronic injury and/or inflammation in a range of organs. Progressive fibrotic events may lead to permanent organ damage/failure. The hallmark of fibrosis is the excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM), mostly produced by pathological myofibroblasts and myofibroblast-like cells. The Hippo signaling pathway is an evolutionarily conserved kinase cascade, which has been described well for its crucial role in cell proliferation, apoptosis, cell fate decisions, and stem cell self-renewal during development, homeostasis, and tissue regeneration. Recent investigations in clinical and pre-clinical models has shown that the Hippo signaling pathway is linked to the pathophysiology of fibrotic diseases in many organs including the lung, heart, liver, kidney, and skin. In this review, we have summarized recent evidences related to the contribution of the Hippo signaling pathway in the development of organ fibrosis. A better understanding of this pathway will guide us to dissect the pathophysiology of fibrotic disorders and develop effective tissue repair therapies.
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12
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Peña JS, Vazquez M. Harnessing the Neuroprotective Behaviors of Müller Glia for Retinal Repair. FRONT BIOSCI-LANDMRK 2022; 27:169. [PMID: 35748245 PMCID: PMC9639582 DOI: 10.31083/j.fbl2706169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Progressive and irreversible vision loss in mature and aging adults creates a health and economic burden, worldwide. Despite the advancements of many contemporary therapies to restore vision, few approaches have considered the innate benefits of gliosis, the endogenous processes of retinal repair that precede vision loss. Retinal gliosis is fundamentally driven by Müller glia (MG) and is characterized by three primary cellular mechanisms: hypertrophy, proliferation, and migration. In early stages of gliosis, these processes have neuroprotective potential to halt the progression of disease and encourage synaptic activity among neurons. Later stages, however, can lead to glial scarring, which is a hallmark of disease progression and blindness. As a result, the neuroprotective abilities of MG have remained incompletely explored and poorly integrated into current treatment regimens. Bioengineering studies of the intrinsic behaviors of MG hold promise to exploit glial reparative ability, while repressing neuro-disruptive MG responses. In particular, recent in vitro systems have become primary models to analyze individual gliotic processes and provide a stepping stone for in vivo strategies. This review highlights recent studies of MG gliosis seeking to harness MG neuroprotective ability for regeneration using contemporary biotechnologies. We emphasize the importance of studying gliosis as a reparative mechanism, rather than disregarding it as an unfortunate clinical prognosis in diseased retina.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan S. Peña
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rutgers, The State
University of New Jersey, Piscataway (08854), New Jersey, USA
| | - Maribel Vazquez
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rutgers, The State
University of New Jersey, Piscataway (08854), New Jersey, USA
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13
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Yang X, Zou R, Dai X, Wu X, Yuan F, Feng Y. YAP is critical to inflammation, endothelial-mesenchymal transition and subretinal fibrosis in experimental choroidal neovascularization. Exp Cell Res 2022; 417:113221. [PMID: 35623419 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2022.113221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2022] [Revised: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Subretinal fibrosis causes local damage to the retina and irreversible vision loss, as the final stage of neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD). More recently, the endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndoMT) has been considered one of the most significant sources of myofibroblasts in subretinal fibrosis, though the underpinning molecular mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, a series of experiments were performed to test the hypothesis that Yes-associated protein (YAP) may be involved in EndoMT and subretinal fibrosis. We demonstrated that transforming growth factor (TGF)-β2 stimulation induces YAP dephosphorylation (activated) and nuclear transcription in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) by increasing reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels. Moreover, TGF-β2-mediated EndoMT and proinflammatory cytokine production in HUVECs were reduced by ROS clearance or YAP knockdown. Furthermore, the severity of subretinal fibrosis was markedly relieved by intravitreal administration of a small interfering RNA targeting YAP in the mouse laser-induced choroidal neovascularization (CNV) model. Our findings provide novel insights into a previously unknown effect of YAP on the EndoMT process and reveal YAP as a potential target for suppressing CNV-related subretinal fibrosis and protect vision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Rong Zou
- Department of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Xiaochan Dai
- Department of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Xinyuan Wu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Fei Yuan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| | - Yifan Feng
- Department of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
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14
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da Silva RA, Roda VMDP, Matsuda M, Siqueira PV, Lustoza-Costa GJ, Wu DC, Hamassaki DE. Cellular components of the idiopathic epiretinal membrane. Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2021; 260:1435-1444. [PMID: 34842983 DOI: 10.1007/s00417-021-05492-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Revised: 10/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Idiopathic epiretinal membrane (iERM) is a fibrocellular proliferation on the inner surface of the retina, which leads to decreased visual acuity and even central visual loss. As iERM is associated to advanced age and posterior vitreous detachment, a higher prevalence is expected with increasing life expectancy and aging of the global population. Although various cell types of retinal and extra-retinal origin have been described in iERMs (Müller glial cells, astrocytes, hyalocytes, retinal pigment epithelium cells, myofibroblasts, and fibroblasts), myofibroblasts have a central role in collagen production and contractile activity. Thus, myofibroblast differentiation is considered a key event for the iERM formation and progression, and fibroblasts, Müller glial cells, hyalocytes, and retinal pigment epithelium have been identified as myofibroblast precursors. On the other side, the different cell types synthesize growth factors, cytokines, and extracellular matrix, which have a crucial role in ERM pathogenesis. In the present review, the major cellular components and their functions are summarized, and their possible roles in the iERM formation are discussed. By exploring in detail the cellular and molecular aspects of iERM, we seek to contribute for better understanding of this fibrotic disease and the origin of myofibroblasts, which may eventually drive to more targeted therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael André da Silva
- Department of Cell & Developmental Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, 05508-000, Brazil
| | - Vinicius Moraes de Paiva Roda
- Department of Cell & Developmental Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, 05508-000, Brazil
| | - Monique Matsuda
- Laboratory of Investigation in Ophthalmology (LIM-33), Division of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Paula Veloso Siqueira
- Department of Cell & Developmental Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, 05508-000, Brazil
| | - Gabriela Jesus Lustoza-Costa
- Department of Cell & Developmental Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, 05508-000, Brazil
| | - Davi Chen Wu
- Department of Cell & Developmental Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, 05508-000, Brazil.,Department of Ophthalmology, Irmandade de Misericórdia da Santa Casa de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Dânia Emi Hamassaki
- Department of Cell & Developmental Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, 05508-000, Brazil.
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15
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Hu D, Jiang J, Ding B, Xue K, Sun X, Qian S. Mechanical Strain Regulates Myofibroblast Differentiation of Human Scleral Fibroblasts by YAP. Front Physiol 2021; 12:712509. [PMID: 34658907 PMCID: PMC8514697 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.712509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Scleral extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling is thought to play a critical role in the pathogenesis of glaucoma. Mechanical strain induced by elevated intraocular pressure can promote myofibroblast differentiation of fibroblasts and result in scleral ECM remodeling; however, the underlying mechanism remains poorly understood. Yes-associated protein (YAP) is a mechanosensory protein and the key downstream transcriptional effector of the Hippo signaling pathway. Here, we investigated the role of YAP in mechanical strain-induced myofibroblast transformation during glaucoma scleral ECM remodeling. Integrative bioinformatics analyses were performed to identify the key pathways for the ECM remodeling of the sclera in glaucoma. Sprague–Dawley rats were used to establish a chronic ocular hypertension model, and the expression of collagen type I (COL1) and YAP in the sclera was analyzed by immunohistochemical analysis and Western blotting. Furthermore, human scleral fibroblasts (HSFs) were cultured and subjected to mechanical strain. In groups with or without the YAP siRNA or YAP inhibitor, cell proliferation, migration capacity, and the expression levels of YAP, COL1, and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) were evaluated by Cell Counting Kit-8 assay, scratch assay, and Western blotting. The interactions between YAP and Smad3 were demonstrated by coimmunoprecipitation, and the expression levels of COL1 and α-SMA were evaluated in groups treated with or without the Smad3 inhibitor. We first revealed that the Hippo signaling pathway may be involved in mechanical strain-induced scleral ECM remodeling through bioinformatics analysis. Furthermore, the in vivo study showed upregulated YAP, COL1, and α-SMA expression in the hypertensive sclera of rats. In vitro, mechanical strain increased YAP and COL1 expression in HSFs and promoted myofibroblast differentiation. After YAP knockdown or inhibition with verteporfin, mechanical strain-induced fibrotic changes in HSFs were markedly suppressed. Additionally, YAP showed a protein interaction with Smad3, and the upregulation of a-SMA and COL1 in response to mechanical strain was also significantly downregulated following the inhibition of Smad3. In conclusion, mechanical strain activated scleral myofibroblast differentiation via YAP. The YAP pathway may play an important role in regulating scleral myofibroblast differentiation and ECM remodeling of the sclera in glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Di Hu
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Science, Eye & ENT Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Myopia, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, and Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration (Fudan University), Shanghai, China.,Department of Ophthalmology, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, National Children's Medical Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Junhong Jiang
- The Eye Hospital, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Baiyang Ding
- Spine Research Center of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, China
| | - Kang Xue
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Science, Eye & ENT Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Myopia, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, and Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration (Fudan University), Shanghai, China
| | - Xinghuai Sun
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Science, Eye & ENT Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Myopia, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, and Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration (Fudan University), Shanghai, China.,State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shaohong Qian
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Science, Eye & ENT Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Myopia, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, and Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration (Fudan University), Shanghai, China
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16
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Zhang W, Li J. Yes-associated protein is essential for proliferative vitreoretinopathy development via the epithelial-mesenchymal transition in retinal pigment epithelial fibrosis. J Cell Mol Med 2021; 25:10213-10223. [PMID: 34598306 PMCID: PMC8572794 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.16958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Revised: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
This study was aim to investigate whether the progression of proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) depended on the activation of Yes‐associated protein (YAP) and the subsequent epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) of retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cell. The effect of YAP activation on retinal fibrosis in a PVR mouse model and in human ARPE‐19 cells in vitro was studied. After treated with transforming growth factor‐β2(TGF‐β2), the expressions of fibrogenic molecules, YAP activation and the TGF‐β2‐Smad signalling pathway in ARPE‐19 cells were detected by Western blot and immunocytochemical analyses. The effect of YAP on change in fibrosis and EMT was tested by knockdown experiment using verteporfin (YAP inhibitor). YAP was upregulated in the PVR mouse model and during TGF‐β2–induced RPE cell EMT. In an in vivo study, verteporfin attenuated PVR progression in a mouse model. Additionally, YAP knockdown retained phenotype of RPE cells and ameliorated TGF‐β2–induced migration, gel contraction and EMT in vitro. YAP knockdown inhibited the TGF‐β2–induced upregulation of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), smooth muscle actin (SMA‐α) and fibronectin. YAP was essential for the TGF‐β2–induced nuclear translocation and phosphorylation of Smad2/3. Our work provides direct evidence that YAP is an essential regulator of EMT and profibrotic responses in PVR and indicates that YAP inhibition could be a potential target in PVR therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zhang
- Tianjin Key Lab of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Tianjin Eye Institute, Tianjin Eye Hospital, Clinical College of Ophthalmology Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China.,Department of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Jing Li
- Tianjin Key Lab of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Tianjin Eye Institute, Tianjin Eye Hospital, Clinical College of Ophthalmology Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
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17
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Targeting matrix stiffness-induced activation of retinal pigment epithelial cells through the RhoA/YAP pathway ameliorates proliferative vitreoretinopathy. Exp Eye Res 2021; 209:108677. [PMID: 34147507 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2021.108677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Revised: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to investigate whether excessive extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition-induced mechanical matrix stiffness plays a key role in promoting retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cell activation and the subsequent development of proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR). Human ARPE-19 cells were cultured on either 50 kappa (stiff) or 0.5 kappa (soft) gel-coated coverslips. Reverse and knockdown experiments were carried out to establish a model of matrix stiffness-induced activation in ARPE-19 cells in vitro. A PVR mouse model was established by the intravitreal injection of dispase. The effects of RhoA/YAP signalling blockade on matrix stiffness-induced ARPE-19 cell activation and PVR-induced retinal fibrosis were determined by using a combination of the Yes-associated protein (YAP) inhibitor verteporfin and the RhoA inhibitor C3 exoenzyme. Matrix stiffness stimulated YAP nuclear translocation and expression in ARPE-19 cells. The effect of YAP activation was dependent on F-actin cytoskeleton polymerization and RhoA activity, forming the RhoA/YAP signalling pathway. Upstream pharmacological blockade of RhoA by C3 exoenzyme or downstream blockade of YAP by verteporfin reduced the invasion, migration, and MMP expression of ARPE-19 cells and collagen gel contraction. Furthermore, blockade of RhoA/YAP signalling reduced PVR-induced retinal fibrogenesis and inhibited the TGF-β/Smad pathway in vivo. RhoA/YAP signalling modulates matrix stiffness-induced activation of ARPE-19 cells. Targeting this signalling pathway could alleviate PVR-induced retinal fibrosis and suggests attractive novel therapeutic strategies for intervening in the progression of PVR.
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18
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Gao C, Quan MY, Chen QJ, Yang R, Wu Y, Liu JY, Lin ZY, Li X, Cai JT, Jiang TF, Xu L, Mossahebi-Mohammadi M, Guo Q, Zhang JS. Yap1-2 Isoform Is the Primary Mediator in TGF-β1 Induced EMT in Pancreatic Cancer. Front Oncol 2021; 11:649290. [PMID: 34094936 PMCID: PMC8170464 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.649290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is the most aggressive human malignancy and intrinsically resistant to conventional therapies. YAP1, as a key downstream effector of the Hippo pathway, plays an important role in tumorigenesis including PDAC. Alternative mRNA splicing of YAP1 results in at least 8 protein isoforms, which are divided into two subgroups (YAP1-1 and YAP1-2) based on the presence of either a single or double WW domains. We investigated the functions and regulatory mechanisms of YAP1-1 and YAP1-2 in PDAC cells induced by TGF-β to undergo epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). CRISPR-Cas9 and shRNA were used to silence YAP1 expression in pancreatic cancer cells. Re-constituted lentivirus mediated overexpression of each single YAP1 isoform was generated in the parental knockout L3.6 cells. EMT was induced by treatment with TGF-β, EGF and bFGF in parental and the constructed stable cell lines. Western blot and qPCR were used to detect the expression of EMT markers. Scratch wound healing and transwell assays were used to detect cell migration. The stability and subcellular localization of YAP1 proteins were determined by Western blot analysis, immunofluorescence, as well as ubiquitination assays. We showed that TGF-β, EGF and bFGF all significantly promoted EMT in PDAC cells, which was inhibited by knockdown of YAP1 expression. Interestingly, YAP1-1 stable cells exhibited a stronger migratory ability than YAP1-2 cells under normal culture condition. However, upon TGF-β treatment, L3.6-YAP1-2 cells exhibited a stronger migratory ability than L3.6-YAP1-1 cells. Mechanistically, TGF-β treatment preferentially stabilizes YAP1-2 and enhances its nuclear localization. Furthermore, TGF-β-induced EMT and YAP1-2 activity were both blocked by inhibition of AKT signaling. Our results showed that both YAP1-1 and YAP1-2 isoforms are important mediators in the EMT process of pancreatic cancer. However, YAP1-2 is more important in mediating TGF-β-induced EMT, which requires AKT signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Gao
- Institute of Life Sciences, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Mei-Yu Quan
- The Key Laboratory of Interventional Pulmonology of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Qian-Jie Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, Cangnan Hospital Affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Ruo Yang
- International Collaborative Center on Growth Factor Research, and School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yuanyuan Wu
- Institute of Life Sciences, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Jia-Yu Liu
- Institute of Life Sciences, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Zhong-Yuan Lin
- Institute of Life Sciences, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Xue Li
- International Collaborative Center on Growth Factor Research, and School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Jue-Ting Cai
- International Collaborative Center on Growth Factor Research, and School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | | | - Le Xu
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Taizhou Enze Hospital, Taizhou, China
| | - Majid Mossahebi-Mohammadi
- International Collaborative Center on Growth Factor Research, and School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Qiang Guo
- International Collaborative Center on Growth Factor Research, and School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Jin-San Zhang
- Institute of Life Sciences, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, China.,International Collaborative Center on Growth Factor Research, and School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
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19
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Peng Y, Qing X, Lin H, Huang D, Li J, Tian S, Liu S, Lv X, Ma K, Li R, Rao Z, Bai Y, Chen S, Lei M, Quan D, Shao Z. Decellularized Disc Hydrogels for hBMSCs tissue-specific differentiation and tissue regeneration. Bioact Mater 2021; 6:3541-3556. [PMID: 33842740 PMCID: PMC8022111 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2021.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2020] [Revised: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Tissue specificity, a key factor in the decellularized tissue matrix (DTM), has shown bioactive functionalities in tuning cell fate-e.g., the differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells. Notably, cell fate is also determined by the living microenvironment, including material composition and spatial characteristics. Herein, two neighboring tissues within intervertebral discs, the nucleus pulposus (NP) and annulus fibrosus (AF), were carefully processed into DTM hydrogels (abbreviated DNP-G and DAF-G, respectively) to determine the tissue-specific effects on stem cell fate, such as specific components and different culturing methods, as well as in vivo regeneration. Distinct differences in their protein compositions were identified by proteomic analysis. Interestingly, the fate of human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSCs) also responds to both culturing methods and composition. Generally, hBMSCs cultured with DNP-G (3D) differentiated into NP-like cells, while hBMSCs cultured with DAF-G (2D) underwent AF-like differentiation, indicating a close correlation with the native microenvironments of NP and AF cells, respectively. Furthermore, we found that the integrin-mediated RhoA/LATS/YAP1 signaling pathway was activated in DAF-G (2D)-induced AF-specific differentiation. Additionally, the activation of YAP1 determined the tendency of NP- or AF-specific differentiation and played opposite regulatory effects. Finally, DNP-G and DAF-G specifically promoted tissue regeneration in NP degeneration and AF defect rat models, respectively. In conclusion, DNP-G and DAF-G can specifically determine the fate of stem cells through the integrin-mediated RhoA/LATS/YAP1 signaling pathway, and this tissue specificity is both compositional and spatial, supporting the utilization of tissue-specific DTM in advanced treatments of intervertebral disc degeneration.
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Key Words
- 2D, two-dimensional
- 3D, three-dimensional
- AF, annulus fibrosus
- Col I–S, collagen type I solution
- DAF, decellularized annulus fibrosus
- DAF-G, decellularized annulus fibrosus hydrogel
- DAF-S, decellularized annulus fibrosus solution
- DNP, decellularized nucleus pulposus
- DNP-G, decellularized nucleus pulposus hydrogel
- DNP-S, decellularized nucleus pulposus solution
- DTM, decellularized tissue matrix
- Decellularized tissue matrix
- Differentiation
- ECM, extracellular matrix
- FAF, fresh annulus fibrosus
- FNP, fresh nucleus pulposus
- IDD, intervertebral disc degeneration
- Intervertebral disc
- MSC, mesenchymal stem cell
- NP, nucleus pulposus
- Tissue specificity
- YAP1
- YAP1, yes-associated protein 1
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Affiliation(s)
- Yizhong Peng
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Xiangcheng Qing
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Hui Lin
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Donghua Huang
- Musculoskeletal Tumor Center, Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jinye Li
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Shuo Tian
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Sheng Liu
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Xiao Lv
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Kaige Ma
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Rui Li
- School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510127, China
| | - Zilong Rao
- School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510127, China
| | - Ying Bai
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510127, China
| | - Songfeng Chen
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou City, 450052, China
| | - Ming Lei
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China,Corresponding author.
| | - Daping Quan
- School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510127, China,School of Materials Science and Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510127, China,Corresponding author. School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510127, China.
| | - Zengwu Shao
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China,Corresponding author.
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Zhang W, Kong Y. YAP is essential for TGF-β-induced retinal fibrosis in diabetic rats via promoting the fibrogenic activity of Müller cells. J Cell Mol Med 2020; 24:12390-12400. [PMID: 32951332 PMCID: PMC7686973 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.15739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2020] [Revised: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to investigate whether Yes-associated protein (YAP) activation and proliferation of retinal Müller cells play a role in the development of TGF-β-induced retinal fibrosis. We studied the effects of YAP activation on retinal fibrosis in diabetic rats and human retinal Müller cells (hMCs) in vitro. The retinal expression of YAP and fibrogenic molecules in rats was detected using Western blotting and immunohistochemistry. After treatment with transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), the levels of fibrogenic molecules, and the activation of YAP and PI3K/Akt signalling pathway in hMCs were detected with Western blotting. The effect of YAP on retinal fibrotic changes was evaluated using YAP knockdown experiments and YAP inhibitors. Results showed that YAP expression was increased in the retina of diabetic rats along with increased retinal fibrosis. In cultured hMCs, YAP inhibition suppressed TGF-β1-stimulated hMC differentiation to myofibroblasts and extracellular matrix (ECM) production, while YAP activation promoted hMC differentiation and ECM production independent of TGF-β1. Furthermore, hMCs cultured on a gel with greater stiffness differentiated into myofibroblasts in a YAP-dependent manner. In diabetic rats, treatment with the YAP inhibitor verteporfin suppressed retinal fibrogenesis. In addition, the TGF-β1-induced PI3K/Akt signalling pathway mediated YAP activation as well as expression of fibrogenic molecules. The interaction between ECM stiffness and YAP forms a feed-forward process leading to retinal fibrosis. Our work highlights YAP as an essential regulator of pro-fibrotic responses in TGF-β-induced retinal fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zhang
- Tianjin Eye Hospital, Tianjin Key Lab of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Tianjin Eye Institute, Clinical College of Ophthalmology Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yichun Kong
- Tianjin Eye Hospital, Tianjin Key Lab of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Tianjin Eye Institute, Clinical College of Ophthalmology Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China.,Tianjin NanKai Hospital, NanKai Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Nankai university affiliated Nankai hospital, Tianjin, China
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