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Li DJ, Berry CE, Wan DC, Longaker MT. Clinical, mechanistic, and therapeutic landscape of cutaneous fibrosis. Sci Transl Med 2024; 16:eadn7871. [PMID: 39321265 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.adn7871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/03/2024] [Indexed: 09/27/2024]
Abstract
When dysregulated, skin fibrosis can lead to a multitude of pathologies. We provide a framework for understanding the wide clinical spectrum, mechanisms, and management of cutaneous fibrosis encompassing a variety of matrix disorders, fibrohistiocytic neoplasms, injury-induced scarring, and autoimmune scleroses. Underlying such entities are common mechanistic pathways that leverage morphogenic signaling, immune activation, and mechanotransduction to modulate fibroblast function. In light of the limited array of available treatments for cutaneous fibrosis, scientific insights have opened new therapeutic and investigative avenues for conditions that still lack effective interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dayan J Li
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
- Department of Dermatology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Redwood City, CA 94063, USA
| | - Charlotte E Berry
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Derrick C Wan
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Michael T Longaker
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
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2
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Stewart DC, Brisson BK, Yen WK, Liu Y, Wang C, Ruthel G, Gullberg D, Mauck RL, Maden M, Han L, Volk SW. Type III Collagen Regulates Matrix Architecture and Mechanosensing during Wound Healing. J Invest Dermatol 2024:S0022-202X(24)02078-5. [PMID: 39236902 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2024.08.013] [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: 01/25/2024] [Revised: 08/05/2024] [Accepted: 08/13/2024] [Indexed: 09/07/2024]
Abstract
Postnatal cutaneous wound healing is characterized by development of a collagen-rich scar lacking the architecture and functional integrity of unwounded tissue. Directing cell behaviors to efficiently heal wounds while minimizing scar formation remains a major wound management goal. In this study, we demonstrate type III collagen (COL3) as a critical regulator of re-epithelialization and scar formation during healing of COL3-enriched, regenerative (Acomys), scar-permissive (CD-1 Mus and wild-type Col3B6/B6 mice) and COL3-deficient, scar-promoting (Col3F/F, a murine conditional knockdown model) cutaneous wound models. We define a scar-permissive fibrillar collagen architecture signature characterized by elongated and anisotropically aligned collagen fibers that is dose-dependently suppressed by COL3. Furthermore, loss of COL3 alters how cells interpret their microenvironment-their mechanoperception-such that COL3-deficient cells display mechanically active phenotypes in the absence of increased microenvironmental stiffness through the upregulation and engagement of the profibrotic integrin α11. Further understanding COL3's role in regulating matrix architecture and mechanoresponses may inform clinical strategies that harness proregenerative mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel C Stewart
- Department of Clinical Sciences & Advanced Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Becky K Brisson
- Department of Clinical Sciences & Advanced Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - William K Yen
- Department of Clinical Sciences & Advanced Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Yuchen Liu
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Science and Health Systems, Drexel University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Chao Wang
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Science and Health Systems, Drexel University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Gordon Ruthel
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Donald Gullberg
- The Department of Biomedicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway; Centre for Cancer Biomarkers (CCBIO), Norwegian Centre of Excellence, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Robert L Mauck
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; McKay Orthopaedic Research Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Translational Musculoskeletal Research Center, Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Malcolm Maden
- Department of Biology, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Lin Han
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Science and Health Systems, Drexel University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Susan W Volk
- Department of Clinical Sciences & Advanced Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.
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3
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Peña OA, Martin P. Cellular and molecular mechanisms of skin wound healing. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol 2024; 25:599-616. [PMID: 38528155 DOI: 10.1038/s41580-024-00715-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
Wound healing is a complex process that involves the coordinated actions of many different tissues and cell lineages. It requires tight orchestration of cell migration, proliferation, matrix deposition and remodelling, alongside inflammation and angiogenesis. Whereas small skin wounds heal in days, larger injuries resulting from trauma, acute illness or major surgery can take several weeks to heal, generally leaving behind a fibrotic scar that can impact tissue function. Development of therapeutics to prevent scarring and successfully repair chronic wounds requires a fuller knowledge of the cellular and molecular mechanisms driving wound healing. In this Review, we discuss the current understanding of the different phases of wound healing, from clot formation through re-epithelialization, angiogenesis and subsequent scar deposition. We highlight the contribution of different cell types to skin repair, with emphasis on how both innate and adaptive immune cells in the wound inflammatory response influence classically studied wound cell lineages, including keratinocytes, fibroblasts and endothelial cells, but also some of the less-studied cell lineages such as adipocytes, melanocytes and cutaneous nerves. Finally, we discuss newer approaches and research directions that have the potential to further our understanding of the mechanisms underpinning tissue repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oscar A Peña
- School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.
| | - Paul Martin
- School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.
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4
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Younesi FS, Miller AE, Barker TH, Rossi FMV, Hinz B. Fibroblast and myofibroblast activation in normal tissue repair and fibrosis. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol 2024; 25:617-638. [PMID: 38589640 DOI: 10.1038/s41580-024-00716-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
The term 'fibroblast' often serves as a catch-all for a diverse array of mesenchymal cells, including perivascular cells, stromal progenitor cells and bona fide fibroblasts. Although phenotypically similar, these subpopulations are functionally distinct, maintaining tissue integrity and serving as local progenitor reservoirs. In response to tissue injury, these cells undergo a dynamic fibroblast-myofibroblast transition, marked by extracellular matrix secretion and contraction of actomyosin-based stress fibres. Importantly, whereas transient activation into myofibroblasts aids in tissue repair, persistent activation triggers pathological fibrosis. In this Review, we discuss the roles of mechanical cues, such as tissue stiffness and strain, alongside cell signalling pathways and extracellular matrix ligands in modulating myofibroblast activation and survival. We also highlight the role of epigenetic modifications and myofibroblast memory in physiological and pathological processes. Finally, we discuss potential strategies for therapeutically interfering with these factors and the associated signal transduction pathways to improve the outcome of dysregulated healing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fereshteh Sadat Younesi
- Keenan Research Institute for Biomedical Science of the St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andrew E Miller
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Thomas H Barker
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Fabio M V Rossi
- School of Biomedical Engineering and Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Boris Hinz
- Keenan Research Institute for Biomedical Science of the St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
- Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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5
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Schlaepfer DD, Ojalill M, Stupack DG. Focal adhesion kinase signaling - tumor vulnerabilities and clinical opportunities. J Cell Sci 2024; 137:jcs261723. [PMID: 39034922 PMCID: PMC11298715 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.261723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Focal adhesion kinase (FAK; encoded by PTK2) was discovered over 30 years ago as a cytoplasmic protein tyrosine kinase that is localized to cell adhesion sites, where it is activated by integrin receptor binding to extracellular matrix proteins. FAK is ubiquitously expressed and functions as a signaling scaffold for a variety of proteins at adhesions and in the cell cytoplasm, and with transcription factors in the nucleus. FAK expression and intrinsic activity are essential for mouse development, with molecular connections to cell motility, cell survival and gene expression. Notably, elevated FAK tyrosine phosphorylation is common in tumors, including pancreatic and ovarian cancers, where it is associated with decreased survival. Small molecule and orally available FAK inhibitors show on-target inhibition in tumor and stromal cells with effects on chemotherapy resistance, stromal fibrosis and tumor microenvironment immune function. Herein, we discuss recent insights regarding mechanisms of FAK activation and signaling, its roles as a cytoplasmic and nuclear scaffold, and the tumor-intrinsic and -extrinsic effects of FAK inhibitors. We also discuss results from ongoing and advanced clinical trials targeting FAK in low- and high-grade serous ovarian cancers, where FAK acts as a master regulator of drug resistance. Although FAK is not known to be mutationally activated, preventing FAK activity has revealed multiple tumor vulnerabilities that support expanding clinical combinatorial targeting possibilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- David D. Schlaepfer
- University of California, San Diego, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Moores Cancer Center, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, 3855 Health Sciences Dr., La Jolla, CA 92098, USA
| | - Marjaana Ojalill
- University of California, San Diego, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Moores Cancer Center, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, 3855 Health Sciences Dr., La Jolla, CA 92098, USA
| | - Dwayne G. Stupack
- University of California, San Diego, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Moores Cancer Center, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, 3855 Health Sciences Dr., La Jolla, CA 92098, USA
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Kussie HC, Hahn W, Sivaraj D, Quintero F, Knochel A, Alfsharif AM, Yasmeh JP, Fischer K, Mojadidi S, Hostler A, Granoski M, McKenna E, Henn D, Litmanovich B, Miller AA, Schurr DK, Li VW, Li WW, Gurtner GC, Chen K. Avenanthramide and β-Glucan Therapeutics Accelerate Wound Healing Via Distinct and Nonoverlapping Mechanisms. Adv Wound Care (New Rochelle) 2024; 13:155-166. [PMID: 38299969 DOI: 10.1089/wound.2023.0050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective: Given the significant economic, health care, and personal burden of acute and chronic wounds, we investigated the dose dependent wound healing mechanisms of two Avena sativa derived compounds: avenanthramide (AVN) and β-Glucan. Approach: We utilized a splinted excisional wound model that mimics human-like wound healing and performed subcutaneous AVN and β-Glucan injections in 15-week-old C57BL/6 mice. Histologic and immunohistochemical analysis was performed on the explanted scar tissue to assess changes in collagen architecture and cellular responses. Results: AVN and β-Glucan treatment provided therapeutic benefits at a 1% dose by weight in a phosphate-buffered saline vehicle, including accelerated healing time, beneficial cellular recruitment, and improved tissue architecture of healed scars. One percent AVN treatment promoted an extracellular matrix (ECM) architecture similar to unwounded skin, with shorter, more randomly aligned collagen fibers and reduced inflammatory cell presence in the healed tissue. One percent β-Glucan treatment promoted a tissue architecture characterized by long, thick bundles of collagen with increased blood vessel density. Innovation: AVN and β-Glucan have previously shown promise in promoting wound healing, although the therapeutic efficacies and mechanisms of these bioactive compounds remain incompletely understood. Furthermore, the healed ECM architecture of these wounds has not been characterized. Conclusions: AVN and β-Glucan accelerated wound closure compared to controls through distinct mechanisms. AVN-treated scars displayed a more regenerative tissue architecture with reduced inflammatory cell recruitment, while β-Glucan demonstrated increased angiogenesis with more highly aligned tissue architecture more indicative of fibrosis. A deeper understanding of the mechanisms driving healing in these two naturally derived therapeutics will be important for translation to human use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hudson C Kussie
- Department of Surgery, University of Arizona, College of Medicine, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - William Hahn
- Department of Surgery, University of Arizona, College of Medicine, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - Dharshan Sivaraj
- Department of Surgery, University of Arizona, College of Medicine, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - Filiberto Quintero
- Department of Surgery, University of Arizona, College of Medicine, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - Amelia Knochel
- Department of Surgery, University of Arizona, College of Medicine, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | | | - Jonathan P Yasmeh
- Department of Surgery, University of Arizona, College of Medicine, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - Katharina Fischer
- Department of Surgery, University of Arizona, College of Medicine, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - Sultana Mojadidi
- Department of Surgery, University of Arizona, College of Medicine, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - Andrew Hostler
- Department of Surgery, University of Arizona, College of Medicine, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - Maia Granoski
- Department of Surgery, University of Arizona, College of Medicine, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - Eamonn McKenna
- Department of Surgery, University of Arizona, College of Medicine, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - Dominic Henn
- Department of Surgery, University of Arizona, College of Medicine, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - Ben Litmanovich
- Department of Surgery, University of Arizona, College of Medicine, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | | | | | - Vincent W Li
- The Angiogenesis Foundation, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - William W Li
- The Angiogenesis Foundation, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Geoffrey C Gurtner
- Department of Surgery, University of Arizona, College of Medicine, Tucson, Arizona, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Arizona, College of Medicine, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - Kellen Chen
- Department of Surgery, University of Arizona, College of Medicine, Tucson, Arizona, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Arizona, College of Medicine, Tucson, Arizona, USA
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7
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Mascharak S, Guo JL, Griffin M, Berry CE, Wan DC, Longaker MT. Modelling and targeting mechanical forces in organ fibrosis. NATURE REVIEWS BIOENGINEERING 2024; 2:305-323. [PMID: 39552705 PMCID: PMC11567675 DOI: 10.1038/s44222-023-00144-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2024]
Abstract
Few efficacious therapies exist for the treatment of fibrotic diseases, such as skin scarring, liver cirrhosis and pulmonary fibrosis, which is related to our limited understanding of the fundamental causes and mechanisms of fibrosis. Mechanical forces from cell-matrix interactions, cell-cell contact, fluid flow and other physical stimuli may play a central role in the initiation and propagation of fibrosis. In this Review, we highlight the mechanotransduction mechanisms by which various sources of physical force drive fibrotic disease processes, with an emphasis on central pathways that may be therapeutically targeted to prevent and reverse fibrosis. We then discuss engineered models of mechanotransduction in fibrosis, as well as molecular and biomaterials-based therapeutic approaches for limiting fibrosis and promoting regenerative healing phenotypes in various organs. Finally, we discuss challenges within fibrosis research that remain to be addressed and that may greatly benefit from next-generation bioengineered model systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shamik Mascharak
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- These authors contributed equally: Shamik Mascharak, Jason L. Guo, Michelle Griffin
| | - Jason L. Guo
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- These authors contributed equally: Shamik Mascharak, Jason L. Guo, Michelle Griffin
| | - Michelle Griffin
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- These authors contributed equally: Shamik Mascharak, Jason L. Guo, Michelle Griffin
| | - Charlotte E. Berry
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Derrick C. Wan
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Michael T. Longaker
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
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8
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Yang P, Lu Y, Gou W, Qin Y, Tan J, Luo G, Zhang Q. Glycosaminoglycans' Ability to Promote Wound Healing: From Native Living Macromolecules to Artificial Biomaterials. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2305918. [PMID: 38072674 PMCID: PMC10916610 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202305918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) are important for the occurrence of signaling molecules and maintenance of microenvironment within the extracellular matrix (ECM) in living tissues. GAGs and GAG-based biomaterial approaches have been widely explored to promote in situ tissue regeneration and repair by regulating the wound microenvironment, accelerating re-epithelialization, and controlling ECM remodeling. However, most approaches remain unacceptable for clinical applications. To improve insights into material design and clinical translational applications, this review highlights the innate roles and bioactive mechanisms of native GAGs during in situ wound healing and presents common GAG-based biomaterials and the adaptability of application scenarios in facilitating wound healing. Furthermore, challenges before the widespread commercialization of GAG-based biomaterials are shared, to ensure that future designed and constructed GAG-based artificial biomaterials are more likely to recapitulate the unique and tissue-specific profile of native GAG expression in human tissues. This review provides a more explicit and clear selection guide for researchers designing biomimetic materials, which will resemble or exceed their natural counterparts in certain functions, thereby suiting for specific environments or therapeutic goals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Yang
- Institute of Burn ResearchState Key Laboratory of TraumaBurn and Combined InjurySouthwest HospitalThird Military Medical UniversityChongqing400038China
| | - Yifei Lu
- Institute of Burn ResearchState Key Laboratory of TraumaBurn and Combined InjurySouthwest HospitalThird Military Medical UniversityChongqing400038China
| | - Weiming Gou
- Institute of Burn ResearchState Key Laboratory of TraumaBurn and Combined InjurySouthwest HospitalThird Military Medical UniversityChongqing400038China
| | - Yiming Qin
- Department of Dermatology and Laboratory of DermatologyClinical Institute of Inflammation and ImmunologyFrontiers Science Center for Disease‐Related Molecular NetworkWest China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengdu610041China
| | - Jianglin Tan
- Institute of Burn ResearchState Key Laboratory of TraumaBurn and Combined InjurySouthwest HospitalThird Military Medical UniversityChongqing400038China
| | - Gaoxing Luo
- Institute of Burn ResearchState Key Laboratory of TraumaBurn and Combined InjurySouthwest HospitalThird Military Medical UniversityChongqing400038China
| | - Qing Zhang
- Institute of Burn ResearchState Key Laboratory of TraumaBurn and Combined InjurySouthwest HospitalThird Military Medical UniversityChongqing400038China
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9
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Kim HS, Taghizadeh A, Taghizadeh M, Kim HW. Advanced materials technologies to unravel mechanobiological phenomena. Trends Biotechnol 2024; 42:179-196. [PMID: 37666712 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2023.08.002] [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: 05/29/2023] [Revised: 08/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
Advancements in materials-driven mechanobiology have yielded significant progress. Mechanobiology explores how cellular and tissue mechanics impact development, physiology, and disease, where extracellular matrix (ECM) dynamically interacts with cells. Biomaterial-based platforms emulate synthetic ECMs, offering precise control over cellular behaviors by adjusting mechanical properties. Recent technological advances enable in vitro models replicating active mechanical stimuli in vivo. These models manipulate cellular mechanics even at a subcellular level. In this review we discuss recent material-based mechanomodulatory studies in mechanobiology. We highlight the endeavors to mimic the dynamic properties of native ECM during pathophysiological processes like cellular homeostasis, lineage specification, development, aging, and disease progression. These insights may inform the design of accurate in vitro mechanomodulatory platforms that replicate ECM mechanics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hye Sung Kim
- Institute of Tissue Regeneration Engineering (ITREN), Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Republic of Korea; Mechanobiology Dental Medicine Research Center, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Republic of Korea; Department of Nanobiomedical Science and BK21 NBM Global Research Center for Regenerative Medicine, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Republic of Korea
| | - Ali Taghizadeh
- Institute of Tissue Regeneration Engineering (ITREN), Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Republic of Korea; Mechanobiology Dental Medicine Research Center, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Republic of Korea; Department of Nanobiomedical Science and BK21 NBM Global Research Center for Regenerative Medicine, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Republic of Korea
| | - Mohsen Taghizadeh
- Institute of Tissue Regeneration Engineering (ITREN), Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Republic of Korea; Mechanobiology Dental Medicine Research Center, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Republic of Korea; Department of Nanobiomedical Science and BK21 NBM Global Research Center for Regenerative Medicine, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Republic of Korea
| | - Hae-Won Kim
- Institute of Tissue Regeneration Engineering (ITREN), Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Republic of Korea; Mechanobiology Dental Medicine Research Center, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Republic of Korea; Department of Nanobiomedical Science and BK21 NBM Global Research Center for Regenerative Medicine, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Republic of Korea.
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10
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Chang L, Du H, Xu F, Xu C, Liu H. Hydrogel-enabled mechanically active wound dressings. Trends Biotechnol 2024; 42:31-42. [PMID: 37453911 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2023.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 06/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Wound care is a major clinical and social concern. However, effective wound repair remains challenging where conventional dressings yield detrimental healing outcomes. An emerging technique, named mechanically active dressing (MAD), uses self-contractile hydrogels to mechanically contract the wound bed. MAD has shown improved healing rates with limited side effects. These promising developments in wound care call for a timely review on the development of such technology. Herein, we shed light on the mechanism underlying mechanically modulated wound healing, carry out a systematic discussion on the status quo of designing hydrogels for MAD fabrication, and conclude with perspectives on design, use and clinical translation for realizing the future goal of personalized wound care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Le Chang
- Shaanxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Infection and Immune Diseases, Shaanxi Provincial People's Hospital, Xi'an 710068, China; Shaanxi Engineering Research Center of Cell Immunology, Shaanxi Provincial People's Hospital, Xi'an 710068, China
| | - Huicong Du
- The Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, China; Bioinspired Engineering and Biomechanics Center (BEBC), Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, China; Department of Aesthetic, Plastic and Maxillofacial Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, China
| | - Feng Xu
- The Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, China; Bioinspired Engineering and Biomechanics Center (BEBC), Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, China
| | - Cuixiang Xu
- Shaanxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Infection and Immune Diseases, Shaanxi Provincial People's Hospital, Xi'an 710068, China; Shaanxi Engineering Research Center of Cell Immunology, Shaanxi Provincial People's Hospital, Xi'an 710068, China.
| | - Hao Liu
- The Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, China; Bioinspired Engineering and Biomechanics Center (BEBC), Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, China.
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11
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Chen Z, Ezzo M, Zondag B, Rakhshani F, Ma Y, Hinz B, Kumacheva E. Intrafibrillar Crosslinking Enables Decoupling of Mechanical Properties and Structure of a Composite Fibrous Hydrogel. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2305964. [PMID: 37671420 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202305964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 09/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023]
Abstract
The fibrous network of an extracellular matrix (ECM) possesses mechanical properties that convey critical biological functions in cell mechanotransduction. Engineered fibrous hydrogels show promise in emulating key aspects of ECM structure and functions. However, varying hydrogel mechanics without changing its architecture remains a challenge. A composite fibrous hydrogel is developed to vary gel stiffness without affecting its structure by controlling intrafibrillar crosslinking. The hydrogel is formed from aldehyde-modified cellulose nanocrystals and gelatin methacryloyl that provide the capability of intrafibrillar photocrosslinking. By varying the degree of gelatin functionalization with methacryloyl groups and/or photoirradiation time, the hydrogel's elastic modulus is changed by more than an order of magnitude, while preserving the same fiber diameter and pore size. The hydrogel is used to seed primary mouse lung fibroblasts and test the role of ECM stiffness on fibroblast contraction and activation. Increasing hydrogel stiffness by stronger intrafibrillar crosslinking results in enhanced fibroblast activation and increased fibroblast contraction force, yet at a reduced contraction speed. The developed approach enables the fabrication of biomimetic hydrogels with decoupled structural and mechanical properties, facilitating studies of ECM mechanics on tissue development and disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengkun Chen
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 3H6, Canada
| | - Maya Ezzo
- Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 3E2, Canada
- Laboratory of Tissue Repair and Regeneration, Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science of the St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON, M5B 1T8, Canada
| | - Benjamen Zondag
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 3H6, Canada
| | - Faeze Rakhshani
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 3H6, Canada
| | - Yingshan Ma
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 3H6, Canada
| | - Boris Hinz
- Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 3E2, Canada
- Laboratory of Tissue Repair and Regeneration, Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science of the St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON, M5B 1T8, Canada
| | - Eugenia Kumacheva
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 3H6, Canada
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 3E5, Canada
- The Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 3G9, Canada
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12
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Berry CE, Longaker MT, Wan DC. Commentary on: Postoperative Mechanomodulation Decreases T-Junction Dehiscence After Reduction Mammaplasty: Early Scar Analysis From a Randomized Controlled Trial. Aesthet Surg J 2023; 43:NP1049-NP1051. [PMID: 37625787 DOI: 10.1093/asj/sjad281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
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13
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Padmanabhan J, Chen K, Sivaraj D, Henn D, Kuehlmann BA, Kussie HC, Zhao ET, Kahn A, Bonham CA, Dohi T, Beck TC, Trotsyuk AA, Stern-Buchbinder ZA, Than PA, Hosseini HS, Barrera JA, Magbual NJ, Leeolou MC, Fischer KS, Tigchelaar SS, Lin JQ, Perrault DP, Borrelli MR, Kwon SH, Maan ZN, Dunn JCY, Nazerali R, Januszyk M, Prantl L, Gurtner GC. Allometrically scaling tissue forces drive pathological foreign-body responses to implants via Rac2-activated myeloid cells. Nat Biomed Eng 2023; 7:1419-1436. [PMID: 37749310 PMCID: PMC10651488 DOI: 10.1038/s41551-023-01091-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
Small animals do not replicate the severity of the human foreign-body response (FBR) to implants. Here we show that the FBR can be driven by forces generated at the implant surface that, owing to allometric scaling, increase exponentially with body size. We found that the human FBR is mediated by immune-cell-specific RAC2 mechanotransduction signalling, independently of the chemistry and mechanical properties of the implant, and that a pathological FBR that is human-like at the molecular, cellular and tissue levels can be induced in mice via the application of human-tissue-scale forces through a vibrating silicone implant. FBRs to such elevated extrinsic forces in the mice were also mediated by the activation of Rac2 signalling in a subpopulation of mechanoresponsive myeloid cells, which could be substantially reduced via the pharmacological or genetic inhibition of Rac2. Our findings provide an explanation for the stark differences in FBRs observed in small animals and humans, and have implications for the design and safety of implantable devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jagannath Padmanabhan
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Kellen Chen
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Department of Surgery, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson, AZ, USA.
| | - Dharshan Sivaraj
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Department of Surgery, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson, AZ, USA.
| | - Dominic Henn
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Britta A Kuehlmann
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Hudson C Kussie
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Surgery, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Eric T Zhao
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Anum Kahn
- Cell Sciences Imaging Facility (CSIF), Beckman Center, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Clark A Bonham
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Teruyuki Dohi
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Thomas C Beck
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Artem A Trotsyuk
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Surgery, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Zachary A Stern-Buchbinder
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Peter A Than
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Hadi S Hosseini
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Janos A Barrera
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Noah J Magbual
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Melissa C Leeolou
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Katharina S Fischer
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Seth S Tigchelaar
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - John Q Lin
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - David P Perrault
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Mimi R Borrelli
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Sun Hyung Kwon
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Zeshaan N Maan
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - James C Y Dunn
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Rahim Nazerali
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Michael Januszyk
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Lukas Prantl
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Geoffrey C Gurtner
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Department of Surgery, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson, AZ, USA.
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14
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Nakano T, Yamanaka H, Sakamoto M, Tsuge I, Katayama Y, Saito S, Ono J, Yamaoka T, Morimoto N. Development of a Self-Assembled Dermal Substitute from Human Fibroblasts Using Long-term Three-Dimensional Culture. Tissue Eng Part A 2023; 29:569-578. [PMID: 37606914 DOI: 10.1089/ten.tea.2023.0109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Skin substitutes have emerged as an alternative to autografts for the treatment of skin defects. Among them, scaffold-based dermal substitutes have been extensively studied; however, they have certain limitations, such as delayed vascularization, limited elasticity, and the inability to achieve permanent engraftment. Self-assembled, cell-based dermal substitutes are a promising alternative that may overcome these shortcomings but have not yet been developed. In this study, we successfully developed a cell-based dermal substitute (cultured dermis) through the long-term culture of human dermal fibroblasts using the net-mold method, which enables three-dimensional cell culture without the use of a scaffold. Spheroids prepared from human dermal fibroblasts were poured into a net-shaped mold and cultured for 2, 4, or 6 months. The dry weight, tensile strength, collagen and glycosaminoglycan levels, and cell proliferation capacity were assessed and compared among the 2-, 4-, and 6-month culture periods. We found that collagen and glycosaminoglycan levels decreased over time, while the dry weight remained unchanged. Tensile strength increased at 4 months, suggesting that remodeling had progressed. In addition, the cell proliferation capacity was maintained, even after a 6-month culture period. Unexpectedly, the internal part of the cultured dermis became fragile, resulting in the division of the cultured dermis into two collagen-rich tissues, each of which had a thickness of 400 μm and sufficient strength to be sutured during in vivo analysis. The divided 4-month cultured dermis was transplanted to skin defects of immunocompromised mice and its wound healing effects were compared to those of a clinically available collagen-based artificial dermis. The cultured dermis promoted epithelialization and angiogenesis more effectively than the collagen-based artificial dermis. Although further improvements are needed, such as the shortening of the culture period and increasing the size of the cultured dermis, we believe that the cultured dermis presented in this study has the potential to be an innovative material for permanent skin coverage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Nakano
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Hiroki Yamanaka
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
- National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center Research Institute, Suita, Japan
| | - Michiharu Sakamoto
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Itaru Tsuge
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Katayama
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Susumu Saito
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Jiro Ono
- Tissue By Net Corporation, Saitama, Japan
| | - Tetsuji Yamaoka
- National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center Research Institute, Suita, Japan
| | - Naoki Morimoto
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
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15
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Li Q, Song H, Li S, Hu P, Zhang C, Zhang J, Feng Z, Kong D, Wang W, Huang P. Macrophage metabolism reprogramming EGCG-Cu coordination capsules delivered in polyzwitterionic hydrogel for burn wound healing and regeneration. Bioact Mater 2023; 29:251-264. [PMID: 37533477 PMCID: PMC10391721 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2023.07.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) at severe burn injury sites may promote metabolic reprogramming of macrophages to induce a deteriorative and uncontrolled inflammation cycle, leading to delayed wound healing and regeneration. Here, a novel bioactive, anti-fouling, flexible polyzwitterionic hydrogel encapsulated with epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG)-copper (Cu) capsules (termed as EGCG-Cu@CBgel) is engineered for burn wound management, which is dedicated to synergistically exerting ROS-scavenging, immune metabolic regulation and pro-angiogenic effects. EGCG-Cu@CBgel can scavenge ROS to normalize intracellular redox homeostasis, effectively relieving oxidative damages and blocking proinflammatory signal transduction. Importantly, EGCG-Cu can inhibit the activity of hexokinase and phosphofructokinase, alleviate accumulation of pyruvate and convert it to acetyl coenzyme A (CoA), whereby inhibits glycolysis and normalizes tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle. Additionally, metabolic reprogramming of macrophages by EGCG-Cu downregulates M1-type polarization and the expression of proinflammatory cytokines both in vitro and in vivo. Meanwhile, copper ions (Cu2+) released from the hydrogel facilitate angiogenesis. EGCG-Cu@CBgel significantly accelerates the healing of severe burn wound via promoting wound closure, weakening tissue-damaging inflammatory responses and enhancing the remodeling of pathological structure. Overall, this study demonstrates the great potential of bioactive hydrogel dressing in treating burn wounds without unnecessary secondary damage to newly formed skin, and highlights the importance of immunometabolism modulation in tissue repair and regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinghua Li
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Biomaterial Research, Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, 300192, China
| | - Huijuan Song
- Institute of Radiation Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, 300192, China
| | - Shuangyang Li
- Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, China
| | - Pengbo Hu
- Emergency Department of Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou, Shandong Province, 256600, China
| | - Chuangnian Zhang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Biomaterial Research, Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, 300192, China
| | - Ju Zhang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Biomaterial Research, Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, 300192, China
| | - Zujian Feng
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Biomaterial Research, Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, 300192, China
| | - Deling Kong
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Weiwei Wang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Biomaterial Research, Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, 300192, China
| | - Pingsheng Huang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Biomaterial Research, Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, 300192, China
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16
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Ezzo M, Hinz B. Novel approaches to target fibroblast mechanotransduction in fibroproliferative diseases. Pharmacol Ther 2023; 250:108528. [PMID: 37708995 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2023.108528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
The ability of cells to sense and respond to changes in mechanical environment is vital in conditions of organ injury when the architecture of normal tissues is disturbed or lost. Among the various cellular players that respond to injury, fibroblasts take center stage in re-establishing tissue integrity by secreting and organizing extracellular matrix into stabilizing scar tissue. Activation, activity, survival, and death of scar-forming fibroblasts are tightly controlled by mechanical environment and proper mechanotransduction ensures that fibroblast activities cease after completion of the tissue repair process. Conversely, dysregulated mechanotransduction often results in fibroblast over-activation or persistence beyond the state of normal repair. The resulting pathological accumulation of extracellular matrix is called fibrosis, a condition that has been associated with over 40% of all deaths in the industrialized countries. Consequently, elements in fibroblast mechanotransduction are scrutinized for their suitability as anti-fibrotic therapeutic targets. We review the current knowledge on mechanically relevant factors in the fibroblast extracellular environment, cell-matrix and cell-cell adhesion structures, stretch-activated membrane channels, stress-regulated cytoskeletal structures, and co-transcription factors. We critically discuss the targetability of these elements in therapeutic approaches and their progress in pre-clinical and/or clinical trials to treat organ fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya Ezzo
- Keenan Research Institute for Biomedical Science of the St. Michael's Hospital, and Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Boris Hinz
- Keenan Research Institute for Biomedical Science of the St. Michael's Hospital, and Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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17
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Dolivo DM, Rodrigues AE, Galiano RD, Mustoe TA, Hong SJ. Prediction and Demonstration of Retinoic Acid Receptor Agonist Ch55 as an Antifibrotic Agent in the Dermis. J Invest Dermatol 2023; 143:1724-1734.e15. [PMID: 36804965 PMCID: PMC10432574 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2023.01.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023]
Abstract
The prevalence of fibrotic diseases and the lack of pharmacologic modalities to effectively treat them impart particular importance to the discovery of novel antifibrotic therapies. The repurposing of drugs with existing mechanisms of action and/or clinical data is a promising approach for the treatment of fibrotic diseases. One paradigm that pervades all fibrotic diseases is the pathological myofibroblast, a collagen-secreting, contractile mesenchymal cell that is responsible for the deposition of fibrotic tissue. In this study, we use a gene expression paradigm characteristic of activated myofibroblasts in combination with the Connectivity Map to select compounds that are predicted to reverse the pathological gene expression signature associated with the myofibroblast and thus contain the potential for use as antifibrotic compounds. We tested a small list of these compounds in a first-pass screen, applying them to fibroblasts, and identified the retinoic acid receptor agonist Ch55 as a potential hit. Further investigation exhibited and elucidated the antifibrotic effects of Ch55 in vitro as well as showing antiscarring activity upon intradermal application in a preclinical rabbit ear hypertrophic scar model. We hope that similar predictions to uncover antiscarring compounds may yield further preclinical and ultimately clinical success.
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Affiliation(s)
- David M Dolivo
- Department of Surgery, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Adrian E Rodrigues
- Department of Surgery, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Robert D Galiano
- Department of Surgery, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Thomas A Mustoe
- Department of Surgery, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Seok Jong Hong
- Department of Surgery, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA.
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18
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Knoedler S, Broichhausen S, Guo R, Dai R, Knoedler L, Kauke-Navarro M, Diatta F, Pomahac B, Machens HG, Jiang D, Rinkevich Y. Fibroblasts - the cellular choreographers of wound healing. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1233800. [PMID: 37646029 PMCID: PMC10461395 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1233800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Injuries to our skin trigger a cascade of spatially- and temporally-synchronized healing processes. During such endogenous wound repair, the role of fibroblasts is multifaceted, ranging from the activation and recruitment of innate immune cells through the synthesis and deposition of scar tissue to the conveyor belt-like transport of fascial connective tissue into wounds. A comprehensive understanding of fibroblast diversity and versatility in the healing machinery may help to decipher wound pathologies whilst laying the foundation for novel treatment modalities. In this review, we portray the diversity of fibroblasts and delineate their unique wound healing functions. In addition, we discuss future directions through a clinical-translational lens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Knoedler
- Department of Plastic Surgery and Hand Surgery, Klinikum Rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- Institute of Regenerative Biology and Medicine, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Munich, Germany
| | - Sonja Broichhausen
- Department of Hand, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Microsurgery, Burn Trauma Center, BG Trauma Center Ludwigshafen, University of Heidelberg, Ludwigshafen, Germany
| | - Ruiji Guo
- Department of Plastic Surgery and Hand Surgery, Klinikum Rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Institute of Regenerative Biology and Medicine, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Munich, Germany
| | - Ruoxuan Dai
- Institute of Regenerative Biology and Medicine, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Munich, Germany
| | - Leonard Knoedler
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Martin Kauke-Navarro
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Fortunay Diatta
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Bohdan Pomahac
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Hans-Guenther Machens
- Department of Plastic Surgery and Hand Surgery, Klinikum Rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Dongsheng Jiang
- Institute of Regenerative Biology and Medicine, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Munich, Germany
| | - Yuval Rinkevich
- Institute of Regenerative Biology and Medicine, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Munich, Germany
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19
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Hu P, Miller AE, Yeh CR, Bingham GC, Civelek M, Barker TH. SEMA7a primes integrin α5β1 engagement instructing fibroblast mechanotransduction, phenotype and transcriptional programming. Matrix Biol 2023; 121:179-193. [PMID: 37422024 DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2023.06.006] [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: 12/18/2022] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/10/2023]
Abstract
Integrins are cellular receptors that bind the extracellular matrix (ECM) and facilitate the transduction of biochemical and biophysical microenvironment cues into cellular responses. Upon engaging the ECM, integrin heterodimers must rapidly strengthen their binding with the ECM, resulting in the assembly of force-resistant and force-sensitive integrin associated complexes (IACs). The IACs constitute an essential apparatus for downstream signaling and fibroblast phenotypes. During wound healing, integrin signaling is essential for fibroblast motility, proliferation, ECM reorganization and, ultimately, restoration of tissue homeostasis. Semaphorin 7A (SEMA7a) has been previously implicated in post-injury inflammation and tissue fibrosis, yet little is known about SEMA7a's role in directing stromal cell, particularly fibroblast, behaviors. We demonstrate that SEMA7a regulates integrin signaling through cis-coupling with active integrin α5β1 on the plasma membrane, enabling rapid integrin adhesion strengthening to fibronectin (Fn) and normal downstream mechanotransduction. This molecular function of SEMA7a potently regulates fibroblast adhesive, cytoskeletal, and migratory phenotype with strong evidence of downstream alterations in chromatin structure resulting in global transcriptomic reprogramming such that loss of SEMA7a expression is sufficient to impair the normal migratory and ECM assembly phenotype of fibroblasts resulting in significantly delayed tissue repair in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Hu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Schools of Engineering and Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA
| | - Andrew E Miller
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Schools of Engineering and Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA
| | - Chiuan-Ren Yeh
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Schools of Engineering and Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA
| | - Grace C Bingham
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Schools of Engineering and Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA
| | - Mete Civelek
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Schools of Engineering and Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA; Center for Public Health Genomics, School of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA
| | - Thomas H Barker
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Schools of Engineering and Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA.
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20
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Saraswathibhatla A, Indana D, Chaudhuri O. Cell-extracellular matrix mechanotransduction in 3D. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol 2023; 24:495-516. [PMID: 36849594 PMCID: PMC10656994 DOI: 10.1038/s41580-023-00583-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 146] [Impact Index Per Article: 146.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/01/2023]
Abstract
Mechanical properties of extracellular matrices (ECMs) regulate essential cell behaviours, including differentiation, migration and proliferation, through mechanotransduction. Studies of cell-ECM mechanotransduction have largely focused on cells cultured in 2D, on top of elastic substrates with a range of stiffnesses. However, cells often interact with ECMs in vivo in a 3D context, and cell-ECM interactions and mechanisms of mechanotransduction in 3D can differ from those in 2D. The ECM exhibits various structural features as well as complex mechanical properties. In 3D, mechanical confinement by the surrounding ECM restricts changes in cell volume and cell shape but allows cells to generate force on the matrix by extending protrusions and regulating cell volume as well as through actomyosin-based contractility. Furthermore, cell-matrix interactions are dynamic owing to matrix remodelling. Accordingly, ECM stiffness, viscoelasticity and degradability often play a critical role in regulating cell behaviours in 3D. Mechanisms of 3D mechanotransduction include traditional integrin-mediated pathways that sense mechanical properties and more recently described mechanosensitive ion channel-mediated pathways that sense 3D confinement, with both converging on the nucleus for downstream control of transcription and phenotype. Mechanotransduction is involved in tissues from development to cancer and is being increasingly harnessed towards mechanotherapy. Here we discuss recent progress in our understanding of cell-ECM mechanotransduction in 3D.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Dhiraj Indana
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Ovijit Chaudhuri
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Sarafan ChEM-H, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
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21
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Hama R, Reinhardt JW, Ulziibayar A, Watanabe T, Kelly J, Shinoka T. Recent Tissue Engineering Approaches to Mimicking the Extracellular Matrix Structure for Skin Regeneration. Biomimetics (Basel) 2023; 8:biomimetics8010130. [PMID: 36975360 PMCID: PMC10046023 DOI: 10.3390/biomimetics8010130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Inducing tissue regeneration in many skin defects, such as large traumatic wounds, burns, other physicochemical wounds, bedsores, and chronic diabetic ulcers, has become an important clinical issue in recent years. Cultured cell sheets and scaffolds containing growth factors are already in use but have yet to restore normal skin tissue structure and function. Many tissue engineering materials that focus on the regeneration process of living tissues have been developed for the more versatile and rapid initiation of treatment. Since the discovery that cells recognize the chemical-physical properties of their surrounding environment, there has been a great deal of work on mimicking the composition of the extracellular matrix (ECM) and its three-dimensional network structure. Approaches have used ECM constituent proteins as well as morphological processing methods, such as fiber sheets, sponges, and meshes. This review summarizes material design strategies in tissue engineering fields, ranging from the morphology of existing dressings and ECM structures to cellular-level microstructure mimicry, and explores directions for future approaches to precision skin tissue regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rikako Hama
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, The Abigail Wexner Research Institute, Nationwide Children's Hospital, 700 Children's Drive, Columbus, OH 43205, USA
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Science, Graduate School of Engineering, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, 2-24-16 Naka-Cho, Koganei 184-8588, Japan
| | - James W Reinhardt
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, The Abigail Wexner Research Institute, Nationwide Children's Hospital, 700 Children's Drive, Columbus, OH 43205, USA
| | - Anudari Ulziibayar
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, The Abigail Wexner Research Institute, Nationwide Children's Hospital, 700 Children's Drive, Columbus, OH 43205, USA
| | - Tatsuya Watanabe
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, The Abigail Wexner Research Institute, Nationwide Children's Hospital, 700 Children's Drive, Columbus, OH 43205, USA
| | - John Kelly
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, The Abigail Wexner Research Institute, Nationwide Children's Hospital, 700 Children's Drive, Columbus, OH 43205, USA
| | - Toshiharu Shinoka
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, The Abigail Wexner Research Institute, Nationwide Children's Hospital, 700 Children's Drive, Columbus, OH 43205, USA
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, The Heart Center, Nationwide Children's Hospital, 700 Children's Drive, Columbus, OH 43205, USA
- Department of Surgery, Cardiovascular Tissue Engineering Program, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
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22
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Sivaraj D, Noishiki C, Kosaric N, Kiwanuka H, Kussie HC, Henn D, Fischer KS, Trotsyuk AA, Greco AH, Kuehlmann BA, Quintero F, Leeolou MC, Granoski MB, Hostler AC, Hahn WW, Januszyk M, Murad F, Chen K, Gurtner GC. Nitric oxide-releasing gel accelerates healing in a diabetic murine splinted excisional wound model. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1060758. [PMID: 36999070 PMCID: PMC10045479 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1060758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
IntroductionAccording to the American Diabetes Association (ADA), 9–12 million patients suffer from chronic ulceration each year, costing the healthcare system over USD $25 billion annually. There is a significant unmet need for new and efficacious therapies to accelerate closure of non-healing wounds. Nitric Oxide (NO) levels typically increase rapidly after skin injury in the inflammatory phase and gradually diminish as wound healing progresses. The effect of increased NO concentration on promoting re-epithelization and wound closure has yet to be described in the context of diabetic wound healing.MethodsIn this study, we investigated the effects of local administration of an NO-releasing gel on excisional wound healing in diabetic mice. The excisional wounds of each mouse received either NO-releasing gel or a control phosphate-buffered saline (PBS)-releasing gel treatment twice daily until complete wound closure.ResultsTopical administration of NO-gel significantly accelerated the rate of wound healing as compared with PBS-gel-treated mice during the later stages of healing. The treatment also promoted a more regenerative ECM architecture resulting in shorter, less dense, and more randomly aligned collagen fibers within the healed scars, similar to that of unwounded skin. Wound healing promoting factors fibronectin, TGF-β1, CD31, and VEGF were significantly elevated in NO vs. PBS-gel-treated wounds.DiscussionThe results of this work may have important clinical implications for the management of patients with non-healing wounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dharshan Sivaraj
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - Chikage Noishiki
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Nina Kosaric
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Harriet Kiwanuka
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Hudson C. Kussie
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - Dominic Henn
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Katharina S. Fischer
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - Artem A. Trotsyuk
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - Autumn H. Greco
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Britta A. Kuehlmann
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
- Center for Plastic, Reconstructive, Aesthetic and Hand Surgery, University Hospital Regensburg and Caritas Hospital St. Josef, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Filiberto Quintero
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - Melissa C. Leeolou
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Maia B. Granoski
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - Andrew C. Hostler
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - William W. Hahn
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - Michael Januszyk
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Ferid Murad
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Kellen Chen
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
- Kellen Chen,
| | - Geoffrey C. Gurtner
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
- *Correspondence: Geoffrey C. Gurtner,
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23
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Dolivo DM, Sun LS, Rodrigues AE, Galiano RD, Mustoe TA, Hong SJ. Epidermal Potentiation of Dermal Fibrosis: Lessons from Occlusion and Mucosal Healing. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2023; 193:510-519. [PMID: 36740181 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2023.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Fibrotic skin conditions, such as hypertrophic and keloid scars, frequently result from injury to the skin and as sequelae to surgical procedures. The development of skin fibrosis may lead to patient discomfort, limitation in range of motion, and cosmetic disfigurement. Despite the frequency of skin fibrosis, treatments that seek to address the root causes of fibrosis are lacking. Much research into fibrotic pathophysiology has focused on dermal pathology, but less research has been performed to understand aberrations in fibrotic epidermis, leading to an incomplete understanding of dermal fibrosis. The literature on occlusion, a treatment modality known to reduce dermal fibrosis, in part through accelerating wound healing and regulating aberrant epidermal inflammation that otherwise drives fibrosis in the dermis, is reviewed. There is a focus on epidermal-dermal crosstalk, which contributes to the development and maintenance of dermal fibrosis, an underemphasized interplay that may yield novel strategies for treatment if understood in more detail.
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Affiliation(s)
- David M Dolivo
- Department of Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Lauren S Sun
- Department of Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Adrian E Rodrigues
- Department of Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Robert D Galiano
- Department of Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Thomas A Mustoe
- Department of Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Seok Jong Hong
- Department of Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois.
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24
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Zhou S, Xie M, Su J, Cai B, Li J, Zhang K. New insights into balancing wound healing and scarless skin repair. J Tissue Eng 2023; 14:20417314231185848. [PMID: 37529248 PMCID: PMC10388637 DOI: 10.1177/20417314231185848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Scars caused by skin injuries after burns, wounds, abrasions and operations have serious physical and psychological effects on patients. In recent years, the research of scar free wound repair has been greatly expanded. However, understanding the complex mechanisms of wound healing, in which various cells, cytokines and mechanical force interact, is critical to developing a treatment that can achieve scarless wound healing. Therefore, this paper reviews the types of wounds, the mechanism of scar formation in the healing process, and the current research progress on the dual consideration of wound healing and scar prevention, and some strategies for the treatment of scar free wound repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengxi Zhou
- School of Life Science, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, P. R. China
| | - Mengbo Xie
- School of Life Science, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, P. R. China
| | - Jingjing Su
- School of Life Science, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, P. R. China
| | - Bingjie Cai
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, P. R. China
| | - Jingan Li
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, P. R. China
| | - Kun Zhang
- School of Life Science, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, P. R. China
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25
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Berry CE, Downer M, Morgan AG, Griffin M, Liang NE, Kameni L, Laufey Parker JB, Guo J, Longaker MT, Wan DC. The effects of mechanical force on fibroblast behavior in cutaneous injury. Front Surg 2023; 10:1167067. [PMID: 37143767 PMCID: PMC10151708 DOI: 10.3389/fsurg.2023.1167067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Wound healing results in the formation of scar tissue which can be associated with functional impairment, psychological stress, and significant socioeconomic cost which exceeds 20 billion dollars annually in the United States alone. Pathologic scarring is often associated with exaggerated action of fibroblasts and subsequent excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix proteins which results in fibrotic thickening of the dermis. In skin wounds, fibroblasts transition to myofibroblasts which contract the wound and contribute to remodeling of the extracellular matrix. Mechanical stress on wounds has long been clinically observed to result in increased pathologic scar formation, and studies over the past decade have begun to uncover the cellular mechanisms that underly this phenomenon. In this article, we will review the investigations which have identified proteins involved in mechano-sensing, such as focal adhesion kinase, as well as other important pathway components that relay the transcriptional effects of mechanical forces, such as RhoA/ROCK, the hippo pathway, YAP/TAZ, and Piezo1. Additionally, we will discuss findings in animal models which show the inhibition of these pathways to promote wound healing, reduce contracture, mitigate scar formation, and restore normal extracellular matrix architecture. Recent advances in single cell RNA sequencing and spatial transcriptomics and the resulting ability to further characterize mechanoresponsive fibroblast subpopulations and the genes that define them will be summarized. Given the importance of mechanical signaling in scar formation, several clinical treatments focused on reducing tension on the wound have been developed and are described here. Finally, we will look toward future research which may reveal novel cellular pathways and deepen our understanding of the pathogenesis of pathologic scarring. The past decade of scientific inquiry has drawn many lines connecting these cellular mechanisms that may lead to a map for the development of transitional treatments for patients on the path to scarless healing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte E. Berry
- Hagey Laboratory for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Mauricio Downer
- Hagey Laboratory for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Annah G. Morgan
- Hagey Laboratory for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Michelle Griffin
- Hagey Laboratory for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Norah E. Liang
- Hagey Laboratory for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Lionel Kameni
- Hagey Laboratory for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Jennifer B. Laufey Parker
- Hagey Laboratory for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Jason Guo
- Hagey Laboratory for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Michael T. Longaker
- Hagey Laboratory for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Derrick C. Wan
- Hagey Laboratory for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
- Correspondence: Derrick C. Wan
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26
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Friction-Aggravated Skin Disorders-A Review of Mechanism and Related Diseases. Dermatitis 2022:01206501-990000000-00081. [PMID: 36255396 DOI: 10.1097/der.0000000000000961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Skin is subject to frequent friction injury. Friction affects different structures of the skin, including keratinocytes, melanocytes, fibroblasts, and follicular units. Friction can also stimulate cytokine production. Friction is sensed by the mechanoreceptors, resulting in signal transduction to the nucleus, activating transcription factors and mechanoresponsive genes. Numerous friction-aggravated diseases have been identified, including inflammatory, depositional, follicular, genetic, infectious, and vesiculobullous disorders. Friction, as a potential modifiable aggravator, should be considered when skin diseases are located at friction-prone areas.
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27
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Yin J, Zhang S, Yang C, Wang Y, Shi B, Zheng Q, Zeng N, Huang H. Mechanotransduction in skin wound healing and scar formation: Potential therapeutic targets for controlling hypertrophic scarring. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1028410. [PMID: 36325354 PMCID: PMC9618819 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1028410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypertrophic scarring (HTS) is a major source of morbidity after cutaneous injury. Recent studies indicate that mechanical force significantly impacts wound healing and skin regeneration which opens up a new direction to combat scarring. Hence, a thorough understanding of the underlying mechanisms is essential in the development of efficacious scar therapeutics. This review provides an overview of the current understanding of the mechanotransduction signaling pathways in scar formation and some strategies that offload mechanical forces in the wounded region for scar prevention and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Ni Zeng
- *Correspondence: Ni Zeng, ; Hanyao Huang,
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28
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Sparks HD, Mandla S, Vizely K, Rosin N, Radisic M, Biernaskie J. Application of an instructive hydrogel accelerates re-epithelialization of xenografted human skin wounds. Sci Rep 2022; 12:14233. [PMID: 35987767 PMCID: PMC9392759 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-18204-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Poor quality (eg. excessive scarring) or delayed closure of skin wounds can have profound physical and pyschosocial effects on patients as well as pose an enormous economic burden on the healthcare system. An effective means of improving both the rate and quality of wound healing is needed for all patients suffering from skin injury. Despite wound care being a multi-billion-dollar industry, effective treatments aimed at rapidly restoring the skin barrier function or mitigating the severity of fibrotic scar remain elusive. Previously, a hydrogel conjugated angiopoietin-1 derived peptide (QHREDGS; Q-peptide) was shown to increase keratinocyte migration and improve wound healing in diabetic mice. Here, we evaluated the effect of this Q-Peptide Hydrogel on human skin wound healing using a mouse xenograft model. First, we confirmed that the Q-Peptide Hydrogel promoted the migration of adult human keratinocytes and modulated their cytokine profile in vitro. Next, utilizing our human to mouse split-thickness skin xenograft model, we found improved healing of wounded human epidermis following Q-Peptide Hydrogel treatment. Importantly, Q-Peptide Hydrogel treatment enhanced this wound re-epithelialization via increased keratinocyte migration and survival, rather than a sustained increase in proliferation. Overall, these data provide strong evidence that topical application of QHREDGS peptide-modified hydrogels results in accelerated wound closure that may lead to improved outcomes for patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Holly D Sparks
- Department of Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Serena Mandla
- Toronto General Research Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Katrina Vizely
- Toronto General Research Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Nicole Rosin
- Department of Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Milica Radisic
- Toronto General Research Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
- Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
| | - Jeff Biernaskie
- Department of Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, T2N 4N1, Canada.
- Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, Calgary, AB, Canada.
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Calgary, AB, Canada.
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29
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Talbott HE, Mascharak S, Griffin M, Wan DC, Longaker MT. Wound healing, fibroblast heterogeneity, and fibrosis. Cell Stem Cell 2022; 29:1161-1180. [PMID: 35931028 PMCID: PMC9357250 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2022.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 214] [Impact Index Per Article: 107.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Fibroblasts are highly dynamic cells that play a central role in tissue repair and fibrosis. However, the mechanisms by which they contribute to both physiologic and pathologic states of extracellular matrix deposition and remodeling are just starting to be understood. In this review article, we discuss the current state of knowledge in fibroblast biology and heterogeneity, with a primary focus on the role of fibroblasts in skin wound repair. We also consider emerging techniques in the field, which enable an increasingly nuanced and contextualized understanding of these complex systems, and evaluate limitations of existing methodologies and knowledge. Collectively, this review spotlights a diverse body of research examining an often-overlooked cell type-the fibroblast-and its critical functions in wound repair and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather E Talbott
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Shamik Mascharak
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Michelle Griffin
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Derrick C Wan
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
| | - Michael T Longaker
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
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30
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Chen K, Henn D, Gurtner GC. Holy grail of tissue regeneration: Size. Bioessays 2022; 44:e2200047. [PMID: 35835730 DOI: 10.1002/bies.202200047] [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: 02/23/2022] [Revised: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Cells and tissue within injured organs undergo a complicated healing process that still remains poorly understood. Interestingly, smaller organisms respond to injury with tissue regeneration and restoration of function, while humans and other large organisms respond to injury by forming dysfunctional, fibrotic scar tissue. Over the past few decades, allometric scaling principles have been well established to show that larger organisms experience exponentially higher tissue forces during movement and locomotion and throughout the organism's lifespan. How these evolutionary adaptations may affect tissue injury has not been thoroughly investigated in humans. We discuss how these adapations may affect healing and demonstrate that blocking the most evolutionary conserved biologic force sensor enables large organisms to heal after injury with true tissue regeneration. Future strategies to disrupt tissue force sensors may unlock the key to regenerating after injury in a wide range of organ systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kellen Chen
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, 94305, USA.,Department of Surgery, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson, Arizona, 85724, USA
| | - Dominic Henn
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, 94305, USA
| | - Geoffrey C Gurtner
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, 94305, USA.,Department of Surgery, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson, Arizona, 85724, USA
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