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Guan Q, Zhang Z, Zhao P, Huang L, Lu R, Liu C, Zhao Y, Shao X, Tian Y, Li J. Identification of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis hub genes and exploration of the mechanisms of action of Jinshui Huanxian formula. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 132:112048. [PMID: 38593509 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.112048] [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: 02/19/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a common and heterogeneous chronic disease, and the mechanism of Jinshui Huanxian formula (JHF) on IPF remains unclear. For a total of 385 lung normal tissue samples from the Gene Expression Omnibus database, 37,777,639 gene pairs were identified through microarray and RNA-seq platforms. Using the individualized differentially expressed gene (DEG) analysis algorithm RankComp (FDR < 0.01), we identified 344 genes as DEGs in at least 95 % (n = 81) of the IPF samples. Of these genes, IGF1, IFNGR1, GLI2, HMGCR, DNM1, KIF4A, and TNFRSF11A were identified as hub genes. These genes were verified using quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) in mice with pulmonary fibrosis (PF) and MRC-5 cells, and they were highly effective at classifying IPF samples in the independent dataset GSE134692 (AUC = 0.587-0.788) and mice with PF (AUC = 0.806-1.000). Moreover, JHF ameliorated the pathological changes in mice with PF and significantly reversed the changes in hub gene expression (KIF4A, IFNGR1, and HMGCR). In conclusion, a series of IPF hub genes was identified, and validated in an independent dataset, mice with PF, and MRC-5 cells. Moreover, the abnormal gene expression was normalized by JHF. These findings provide guidance for further exploration of the pathogenesis and treatment of IPF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingzhou Guan
- Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou 450046, China; Henan Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine for Respiratory Disease, Collaborative Innovation Center for Chinese Medicine and Respiratory Diseases Co-constructed by Henan Province and Education Ministry of P.R. China, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Zhenzhen Zhang
- Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou 450046, China; Henan Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine for Respiratory Disease, Collaborative Innovation Center for Chinese Medicine and Respiratory Diseases Co-constructed by Henan Province and Education Ministry of P.R. China, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Peng Zhao
- Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou 450046, China; Henan Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine for Respiratory Disease, Collaborative Innovation Center for Chinese Medicine and Respiratory Diseases Co-constructed by Henan Province and Education Ministry of P.R. China, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Lidong Huang
- Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou 450046, China; Henan Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine for Respiratory Disease, Collaborative Innovation Center for Chinese Medicine and Respiratory Diseases Co-constructed by Henan Province and Education Ministry of P.R. China, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Ruilong Lu
- Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou 450046, China; Henan Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine for Respiratory Disease, Collaborative Innovation Center for Chinese Medicine and Respiratory Diseases Co-constructed by Henan Province and Education Ministry of P.R. China, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Chunlei Liu
- Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou 450046, China; Henan Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine for Respiratory Disease, Collaborative Innovation Center for Chinese Medicine and Respiratory Diseases Co-constructed by Henan Province and Education Ministry of P.R. China, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Yakun Zhao
- Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou 450046, China; Henan Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine for Respiratory Disease, Collaborative Innovation Center for Chinese Medicine and Respiratory Diseases Co-constructed by Henan Province and Education Ministry of P.R. China, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Xuejie Shao
- Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou 450046, China; Henan Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine for Respiratory Disease, Collaborative Innovation Center for Chinese Medicine and Respiratory Diseases Co-constructed by Henan Province and Education Ministry of P.R. China, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Yange Tian
- Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou 450046, China; Henan Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine for Respiratory Disease, Collaborative Innovation Center for Chinese Medicine and Respiratory Diseases Co-constructed by Henan Province and Education Ministry of P.R. China, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou 450046, China.
| | - Jiansheng Li
- Henan Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine for Respiratory Disease, Collaborative Innovation Center for Chinese Medicine and Respiratory Diseases Co-constructed by Henan Province and Education Ministry of P.R. China, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou 450046, China; Department of Respiratory Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou 450000, China.
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2
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Liang M, Dickel N, Györfi AH, SafakTümerdem B, Li YN, Rigau AR, Liang C, Hong X, Shen L, Matei AE, Trinh-Minh T, Tran-Manh C, Zhou X, Zehender A, Kreuter A, Zou H, Schett G, Kunz M, Distler JHW. Attenuation of fibroblast activation and fibrosis by adropin in systemic sclerosis. Sci Transl Med 2024; 16:eadd6570. [PMID: 38536934 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.add6570] [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: 09/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
Fibrotic diseases impose a major socioeconomic challenge on modern societies and have limited treatment options. Adropin, a peptide hormone encoded by the energy homeostasis-associated (ENHO) gene, is implicated in metabolism and vascular homeostasis, but its role in the pathogenesis of fibrosis remains enigmatic. Here, we used machine learning approaches in combination with functional in vitro and in vivo experiments to characterize adropin as a potential regulator involved in fibroblast activation and tissue fibrosis in systemic sclerosis (SSc). We demonstrated consistent down-regulation of adropin/ENHO in skin across multiple cohorts of patients with SSc. The prototypical profibrotic cytokine TGFβ reduced adropin/ENHO expression in a JNK-dependent manner. Restoration of adropin signaling by therapeutic application of bioactive adropin34-76 peptides in turn inhibited TGFβ-induced fibroblast activation and fibrotic tissue remodeling in primary human dermal fibroblasts, three-dimensional full-thickness skin equivalents, mouse models of bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis and sclerodermatous chronic graft-versus-host-disease (sclGvHD), and precision-cut human skin slices. Knockdown of GPR19, an adropin receptor, abrogated the antifibrotic effects of adropin in fibroblasts. RNA-seq demonstrated that the antifibrotic effects of adropin34-76 were functionally linked to deactivation of GLI1-dependent profibrotic transcriptional networks, which was experimentally confirmed in vitro, in vivo, and ex vivo using cultured human dermal fibroblasts, a sclGvHD mouse model, and precision-cut human skin slices. ChIP-seq confirmed adropin34-76-induced changes in TGFβ/GLI1 signaling. Our study characterizes the TGFβ-induced down-regulation of adropin/ENHO expression as a potential pathomechanism of SSc as a prototypical systemic fibrotic disease that unleashes uncontrolled activation of profibrotic GLI1 signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minrui Liang
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty of Heinrich Heine University; 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Hiller Research Unit, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty of Heinrich Heine University; 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Division of Rheumatology, Huashan Rare Disease Center, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, 200032 Shanghai, P. R. China
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine 3, Friedrich-Alexander-University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg and University Hospital Erlangen, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Nicholas Dickel
- Chair of Medical Informatics, Friedrich-Alexander University (FAU), Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91058 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Andrea-Hermina Györfi
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty of Heinrich Heine University; 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Hiller Research Unit, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty of Heinrich Heine University; 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine 3, Friedrich-Alexander-University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg and University Hospital Erlangen, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Bilgesu SafakTümerdem
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty of Heinrich Heine University; 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Hiller Research Unit, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty of Heinrich Heine University; 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine 3, Friedrich-Alexander-University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg and University Hospital Erlangen, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Yi-Nan Li
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty of Heinrich Heine University; 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Hiller Research Unit, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty of Heinrich Heine University; 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine 3, Friedrich-Alexander-University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg and University Hospital Erlangen, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Aleix Rius Rigau
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine 3, Friedrich-Alexander-University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg and University Hospital Erlangen, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Chunguang Liang
- Chair of Medical Informatics, Friedrich-Alexander University (FAU), Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91058 Erlangen, Germany
- Institute of Immunology, Jena University Hospital, 07743 Jena, Germany
| | - Xuezhi Hong
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty of Heinrich Heine University; 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Hiller Research Unit, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty of Heinrich Heine University; 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine 3, Friedrich-Alexander-University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg and University Hospital Erlangen, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Lichong Shen
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine 3, Friedrich-Alexander-University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg and University Hospital Erlangen, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Division of Rheumatology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 200001 Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Alexandru-Emil Matei
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty of Heinrich Heine University; 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Hiller Research Unit, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty of Heinrich Heine University; 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine 3, Friedrich-Alexander-University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg and University Hospital Erlangen, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Thuong Trinh-Minh
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty of Heinrich Heine University; 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Hiller Research Unit, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty of Heinrich Heine University; 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine 3, Friedrich-Alexander-University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg and University Hospital Erlangen, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Cuong Tran-Manh
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty of Heinrich Heine University; 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Hiller Research Unit, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty of Heinrich Heine University; 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine 3, Friedrich-Alexander-University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg and University Hospital Erlangen, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Xiang Zhou
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty of Heinrich Heine University; 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Hiller Research Unit, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty of Heinrich Heine University; 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine 3, Friedrich-Alexander-University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg and University Hospital Erlangen, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Ariella Zehender
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine 3, Friedrich-Alexander-University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg and University Hospital Erlangen, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Alexander Kreuter
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology, HELIOS Sankt Elisabeth Klinik Oberhausen, 46045 Oberhausen, Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany
| | - Hejian Zou
- Division of Rheumatology, Huashan Rare Disease Center, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, 200032 Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Georg Schett
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine 3, Friedrich-Alexander-University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg and University Hospital Erlangen, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Meik Kunz
- Chair of Medical Informatics, Friedrich-Alexander University (FAU), Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91058 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Jörg H W Distler
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty of Heinrich Heine University; 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Hiller Research Unit, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty of Heinrich Heine University; 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine 3, Friedrich-Alexander-University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg and University Hospital Erlangen, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
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3
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Mitsui Y, Yamabe F, Hori S, Uetani M, Kobayashi H, Nagao K, Nakajima K. Molecular Mechanisms and Risk Factors Related to the Pathogenesis of Peyronie's Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10133. [PMID: 37373277 PMCID: PMC10299070 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241210133] [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: 04/29/2023] [Revised: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Peyronie's disease (PD) is a benign condition caused by plaque formation on the tunica albuginea of the penis. It is associated with penile pain, curvature, and shortening, and contributes to erectile dysfunction, which worsens patient quality of life. In recent years, research into understanding of the detailed mechanisms and risk factors involved in the development of PD has been increasing. In this review, the pathological mechanisms and several closely related signaling pathways, including TGF-β, WNT/β-catenin, Hedgehog, YAP/TAZ, MAPK, ROCK, and PI3K/AKT, are described. Findings regarding cross-talk among these pathways are then discussed to elucidate the complicated cascade behind tunica albuginea fibrosis. Finally, various risk factors including the genes involved in the development of PD are presented and their association with the disease summarized. The purpose of this review is to provide a better understanding regarding the involvement of risk factors in the molecular mechanisms associated with PD pathogenesis, as well as to provide insight into disease prevention and novel therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yozo Mitsui
- Department of Urology, Toho University Faculty of Medicine, Tokyo 143-8540, Japan; (F.Y.); (S.H.); (M.U.); (H.K.); (K.N.); (K.N.)
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4
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Distler JHW, Riemekasten G, Denton CP. The Exciting Future for Scleroderma. Rheum Dis Clin North Am 2023; 49:445-462. [PMID: 37028846 DOI: 10.1016/j.rdc.2023.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/06/2023]
Abstract
Emerging evidence shows that a complex interplay between cells and mediators and extracellular matrix factors may underlie the development and persistence of fibrosis in systemic sclerosis. Similar processes may determine vasculopathy. This article reviews recent progress in understanding how fibrosis becomes profibrotic and how the immune system, vascular, and mesenchymal compartment affect disease development. Early phase trials are informing about pathogenic mechanisms in vivo and reverse translation for observational and randomized trials is allowing hypotheses to be developed and tested. In addition to repurposing already available drugs, these studies are paving the way for the next generation of targeted therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jörg H W Distler
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 - Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg (FAU) and University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Gabriela Riemekasten
- Department of Rheumatology, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, Lübeck 23562, Germany
| | - Christopher P Denton
- Division of Medicine, Department of Inflammation, Centre for Rheumatology, University College London, London, UK.
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5
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Jiang M, Wang J, Shen Y, Zhu J, Liu Z, Gong W, Yu Y, Zhang S, Zhou X, He S, Song Y, Zhu Z, Jin L, Cong W. Ribosomal S6 Protein Kinase 2 Aggravates the Process of Systemic Scleroderma. J Invest Dermatol 2022; 142:3175-3183.e5. [PMID: 35853487 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2022.06.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Revised: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis is a complex process of pathogenesis, and the contributions of inherited genes, infections, and chemicals remain largely unknown. In this study, we showed that p90 ribosomal S6 protein kinase 2 (RSK2) was selectively upregulated in fibrotic skin and fibroblasts treated with the profibrotic cytokine TGF-β. Moreover, knockout of Rsk2 specifically in skin fibroblasts or pharmacological inhibition of RSK2 attenuated skin fibrosis in a mouse model. Mechanistically, RSK2 directly interacted with glycogen synthase kinase 3β in vivo and in vitro and thereby induced phosphorylation of glycogen synthase kinase 3β at Ser9 to inhibit ubiquitination and degradation of GLI1, which promoted fibroblast differentiation and skin fibrosis. Consequently, RSK2 plays an important role in the dermal skin of systemic sclerosis. These findings provided a potential therapeutic target for systemic sclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengying Jiang
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Jianan Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Hwa Mei Hospital, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Ningbo No.2 Hospital), Ningbo, China
| | - Yingjie Shen
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Junjie Zhu
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Zhili Liu
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Wenjie Gong
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Ying Yu
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Siyi Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Xuan Zhou
- Ningbo First Hospital, Ningbo, China
| | - Shengqu He
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yonghuan Song
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Zhongxin Zhu
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Litai Jin
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Weitao Cong
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.
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6
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Su Y, Xing H, Kang J, Bai L, Zhang L. Role of the hedgehog signaling pathway in rheumatic diseases: An overview. Front Immunol 2022; 13:940455. [PMID: 36105801 PMCID: PMC9466598 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.940455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway is an evolutionarily conserved signal transduction pathway that plays an important regulatory role during embryonic development, cell proliferation, and differentiation of vertebrates, and it is often inhibited in adult tissues. Recent evidence has shown that Hh signaling also plays a key role in rheumatic diseases, as alterations in their number or function have been identified in rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, systemic sclerosis, and Sjogren's Syndrome. As a result, emerging studies have focused on the blockade of this pathogenic axis as a promising therapeutic target in several autoimmune disorders; nevertheless, a greater understanding of its contribution still requires further investigation. This review aims to elucidate the most recent studies and literature data on the pathogenetic role of Hh signaling in rheumatic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Liyun Zhang
- Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Tongji Shanxi Hospital, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
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7
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Riemekasten G, Distler JH. A broad look into the future of systemic sclerosis. Ther Adv Musculoskelet Dis 2022; 14:1759720X221109404. [PMID: 35966183 PMCID: PMC9373175 DOI: 10.1177/1759720x221109404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a systemic autoimmune disease with the key features of inflammation, vasculopathy and fibrosis. This article focussed on emerging fields based on the authors' current work and expertise. The authors provide a hierarchical structure into the studies of the pathogenesis of SSc starting with the contribution of environmental factors. Regulatory autoantibodies (abs) are discussed, which are parts of the human physiology and are specifically dysregulated in SSc. Abs against the angiotensin II receptor subtype 1 (AT1R) and the endothelin receptor type A (ETAR) are discussed in more detail. Extracellular vesicles are another novel player to possess disease processes. Fibroblasts are a key effector cell in SSc. Therefore, the current review will provide an overview about their plasticity in the phenotype and function. Promising nuclear receptors as key regulators of transcriptional programmes will be introduced as well as epigenetic modifications, which are pivotal to maintain the profibrotic fibroblast phenotype independent of external stimuli. Fibroblasts from SSc patients exhibit a specific signalling and reactivate developmental pathways and stem cell maintenance such as by employing hedgehog and WNT, which promote fibroblast-to-myofibroblast transition and extracellular matrix generation. Pharmacological interventions, although for other indications, are already in clinical use to address pathologic signalling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Riemekasten
- Clinic for Rheumatology and Clinical
Immunology, University Clinic Schleswig-Holstein and University
of Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23538 Lübeck, Germany
| | - Jörg H.W. Distler
- Department of Internal Medicine 3,
Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University
(FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
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8
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Artlett CM. The Mechanism and Regulation of the NLRP3 Inflammasome during Fibrosis. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12050634. [PMID: 35625564 PMCID: PMC9138796 DOI: 10.3390/biom12050634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis is often the end result of chronic inflammation. It is characterized by the excessive deposition of extracellular matrix. This leads to structural alterations in the tissue, causing permanent damage and organ dysfunction. Depending on the organ it effects, fibrosis can be a serious threat to human life. The molecular mechanism of fibrosis is still not fully understood, but the NLRP3 (NOD-, LRR- and pyrin–domain–containing protein 3) inflammasome appears to play a significant role in the pathogenesis of fibrotic disease. The NLRP3 inflammasome has been the most extensively studied inflammatory pathway to date. It is a crucial component of the innate immune system, and its activation mediates the secretion of interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-18. NLRP3 activation has been strongly linked with fibrosis and drives the differentiation of fibroblasts into myofibroblasts by the chronic upregulation of IL-1β and IL-18 and subsequent autocrine signaling that maintains an activated inflammasome. Both IL-1β and IL-18 are profibrotic, however IL-1β can have antifibrotic capabilities. NLRP3 responds to a plethora of different signals that have a common but unidentified unifying trigger. Even after 20 years of extensive investigation, regulation of the NLRP3 inflammasome is still not completely understood. However, what is known about NLRP3 is that its regulation and activation is complex and not only driven by various activators but controlled by numerous post-translational modifications. More recently, there has been an intensive attempt to discover NLRP3 inhibitors to treat chronic diseases. This review addresses the role of the NLRP3 inflammasome in fibrotic disorders across many different tissues. It discusses the relationships of various NLRP3 activators to fibrosis and covers different therapeutics that have been developed, or are currently in development, that directly target NLRP3 or its downstream products as treatments for fibrotic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carol M Artlett
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, College of Medicine, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA 19129, USA
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9
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Wasson CW, Caballero-Ruiz B, Gillespie J, Derrett-Smith E, Mankouri J, Denton CP, Canettieri G, Riobo-Del Galdo NA, Del Galdo F. Induction of Pro-Fibrotic CLIC4 in Dermal Fibroblasts by TGF-β/Wnt3a Is Mediated by GLI2 Upregulation. Cells 2022; 11:cells11030530. [PMID: 35159339 PMCID: PMC8834396 DOI: 10.3390/cells11030530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2022] [Revised: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Chloride intracellular channel 4 (CLIC4) is a recently discovered driver of fibroblast activation in Scleroderma (SSc) and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF). CLIC4 expression and activity are regulated by TGF-β signalling through the SMAD3 transcription factor. In view of the aberrant activation of canonical Wnt-3a and Hedgehog (Hh) signalling in fibrosis, we investigated their role in CLIC4 upregulation. Here, we show that TGF-β/SMAD3 co-operates with Wnt3a/β-catenin and Smoothened/GLI signalling to drive CLIC4 expression in normal dermal fibroblasts, and that the inhibition of β-catenin and GLI expression or activity abolishes TGF-β/SMAD3-dependent CLIC4 induction. We further show that the expression of the pro-fibrotic marker α-smooth muscle actin strongly correlates with CLIC4 expression in dermal fibroblasts. Further investigations revealed that the inhibition of CLIC4 reverses morphogen-dependent fibroblast activation. Our data highlights that CLIC4 is a common downstream target of TGF-β, Hh, and Wnt-3a through signalling crosstalk and we propose a potential therapeutic avenue using CLIC4 inhibitors
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher W. Wasson
- Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds LS29JT, UK; (J.G.); (F.D.G.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Begoña Caballero-Ruiz
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds LS29JT, UK; (B.C.-R.); (J.M.); (N.A.R.-D.G.)
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00196 Rome, Italy;
| | - Justin Gillespie
- Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds LS29JT, UK; (J.G.); (F.D.G.)
| | - Emma Derrett-Smith
- Centre for Rheumatology and Connective Tissue Diseases, UCL Division of Medicine, London NW32PF, UK; (E.D.-S.); (C.P.D.)
| | - Jamel Mankouri
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds LS29JT, UK; (B.C.-R.); (J.M.); (N.A.R.-D.G.)
| | - Christopher P. Denton
- Centre for Rheumatology and Connective Tissue Diseases, UCL Division of Medicine, London NW32PF, UK; (E.D.-S.); (C.P.D.)
| | - Gianluca Canettieri
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00196 Rome, Italy;
| | - Natalia A. Riobo-Del Galdo
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds LS29JT, UK; (B.C.-R.); (J.M.); (N.A.R.-D.G.)
- Leeds Institute of Medical Research, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds LS29JT, UK
| | - Francesco Del Galdo
- Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds LS29JT, UK; (J.G.); (F.D.G.)
- Scleroderma Programme, NIHR Leeds Musculoskeletal Biomedical Research Centre, Leeds LS29JT, UK
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10
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Mouse Models of Skin Fibrosis. Methods Mol Biol 2021; 2299:371-383. [PMID: 34028755 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-1382-5_25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/14/2023]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare systemic autoimmune disease associated with a high mortality. The first histopathological hallmarks are vasculopathy and inflammation, followed by fibrosis of the skin and internal organs. The molecular and cellular mechanisms are incompletely understood. Rodent models provide important insights into the pathogenesis of SSc and are a mainstay for the development of novel targeted therapies. Here we describe the mechanistic insights of inducible and genetic models, and also discuss in detail the limitations and pitfalls of the most frequently used SSc mouse models. We also describe protocols for running the established bleomycin-induced scleroderma skin fibrosis model.
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11
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Sun C, Ma Q, Yin J, Zhang H, Liu X. WISP-1 induced by mechanical stress contributes to fibrosis and hypertrophy of the ligamentum flavum through Hedgehog-Gli1 signaling. Exp Mol Med 2021; 53:1068-1079. [PMID: 34158608 PMCID: PMC8257797 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-021-00636-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Revised: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Ongoing chronic fibrosis and hypertrophy of the ligamentum flavum (LF) is an important cause of lumbar spinal canal stenosis (LSCS). Our previous work showed that WNT1-inducible signaling pathway protein 1 (WISP-1) is a critical driver of LF fibrosis. However, the potential mechanism has not been explored. Here, we found that Gli1 was upregulated in hypertrophic LF tissues and required for fibrogenesis in fibroblasts. Moreover, mechanical stretching increased the expression of WISP-1 in LF fibroblasts. Furthermore, WISP-1 induced fibrogenesis in vitro through the Hedgehog-Gli1 pathway. This conclusion was supported by the fact that WISP-1 activated the Hedgehog-Gli1 pathway in LF fibroblasts and that cyclopamine attenuated the effect of WISP-1-induced fibrogenesis. WISP-1 also promoted the transition of fibroblasts into myofibroblasts via the Hedgehog pathway. Importantly, a hypertrophic LF rabbit model induced by mechanical stress also showed pathological changes in fibrosis and elevated expression of WISP-1, Gli1, and α-SMA. Therapeutic administration of cyclopamine reduced collagen expression, fibroblast proliferation, and myofibroblast differentiation and ameliorated fibrosis in the mechanical stress-induced rabbit model. Collectively, our findings show mechanical stress/WISP-1/Hedgehog signaling as a new fibrotic axis contributing to LF hypertrophy and identify Hedgehog signaling as a therapeutic target for the prevention and treatment of LF fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Sun
- Department of Spine Surgery, The Affiliated Jiangning Hospital with Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 211100, China
| | - Qinghong Ma
- Department of Spine Surgery, The Affiliated Jiangning Hospital with Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 211100, China
| | - Jian Yin
- Department of Spine Surgery, The Affiliated Jiangning Hospital with Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 211100, China
| | - Han Zhang
- Department of Spine Surgery, The Affiliated Jiangning Hospital with Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 211100, China
| | - Xinhui Liu
- Department of Spine Surgery, The Affiliated Jiangning Hospital with Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 211100, China.
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12
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Yan J, Hu B, Shi W, Wang X, Shen J, Chen Y, Huang H, Jin L. Gli2-regulated activation of hepatic stellate cells and liver fibrosis by TGF-β signaling. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2021; 320:G720-G728. [PMID: 33728992 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00310.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
The Hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway is correlated with hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) activation and liver fibrosis. Gli2 is a key transcription effector of Hh signaling. However, the role of Gli2 in HSC-mediated liver fibrosis progression is largely unknown. In the present study, we investigated the effect of Gli2 on liver fibrogenesis and its possible mechanism using conditional knockout (cKO) Gli2 mice and HSC models. Wild-type (WT) and GFAP-CreERT;Gli2flox/flox male mice were exposed to CCl4 for 1 mo to induce liver fibrosis. Primary HSCs were isolated from mice and the transition of HSCs into a myofibroblastic phenotype was evaluated. Livers from mice underwent histological, immunohistochemical, and immunofluorescence analyses. The expression levels of proteins and genes were evaluated by Western blot (WB) analysis and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), respectively. RNA-seq was used to screen differentially expressed genes. Results showed that CCl4 treatment induced liver fibrosis, promoted HSCs activation and proliferation, and upregulated Hh signaling activity. The cKO of Gli2 in GFAP-CreERT;Gli2flox/flox mice decreased liver fibrosis as well as HSC activation and proliferation. In vitro studies showed that KO of Gli2 in HSCs blocked cell proliferation and activation by decrease of cyclin D1/D2 expression. The RNA-seq results revealed that the expression levels TGF-β1 ligands were downregulated in Gli2 KO HSCs. Furthermore, overexpression of Gli2 rescued proliferation and activation of HSCs by upregulation of TGF-β signaling activity. Our data demonstrated that Gli2 regulated HSC activation and liver fibrosis by TGF-β signaling, thus providing support for future Gli2-based investigations of liver fibrosis therapy.NEW & NOTEWORTHYGli2 is a key transcription effector of Hh signaling. We found that Hh/Gli2 signaling activity was upregulated in CCl4-induced liver fibrosis. Conditional deletion of the Gli2 gene in HSCs ameliorated CCl4-induced liver fibrosis and HSCs activation. Moreover, Gli2 promoted activation of HSCs through upregulation of cyclin expression and TGF-β signaling activity. Thus, our data provide strong support for future investigations on Gli2 inhibition to slow liver fibrosis progression in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junyan Yan
- School of Life Science, Shaoxing University, Shaoxing, China
| | - Baowei Hu
- School of Life Science, Shaoxing University, Shaoxing, China
| | - Wenjie Shi
- School of Life Science, Shaoxing University, Shaoxing, China
| | - Xiaoyi Wang
- School of Life Science, Shaoxing University, Shaoxing, China
| | - Jiayuan Shen
- School of Life Science, Shaoxing University, Shaoxing, China.,Department of Pathology, Affliliated Hospital of Shaoxing University, Shaoxing, China
| | - Yaping Chen
- School of Life Science, Shaoxing University, Shaoxing, China
| | - Huarong Huang
- College of Life and Environmental Science, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lifang Jin
- School of Life Science, Shaoxing University, Shaoxing, China
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13
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Romano E, Rosa I, Fioretto BS, Cerinic MM, Manetti M. The Role of Pro-fibrotic Myofibroblasts in Systemic Sclerosis: from Origin to Therapeutic Targeting. Curr Mol Med 2021; 22:209-239. [PMID: 33823766 DOI: 10.2174/0929867328666210325102749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Revised: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc, scleroderma) is a complex connective tissue disorder characterized by multisystem clinical manifestations resulting from immune dysregulation/autoimmunity, vasculopathy and, most notably, progressive fibrosis of the skin and internal organs. In recent years, it has emerged that the main drivers of SSc-related tissue fibrosis are myofibroblasts, a type of mesenchymal cells with both the extracellular matrix-synthesizing features of fibroblasts and the cytoskeletal characteristics of contractile smooth muscle cells. The accumulation and persistent activation of pro-fibrotic myofibroblasts during SSc development and progression result into elevated mechanical stress and reduced matrix plasticity within the affected tissues and may be ascribed to a reduced susceptibility of these cells to pro-apoptotic stimuli, as well as their increased formation from tissue-resident fibroblasts or transition from different cell types. Given the crucial role of myofibroblasts in SSc pathogenesis, finding the way to inhibit myofibroblast differentiation and accumulation by targeting their formation, function and survival may represent an effective approach to hamper the fibrotic process or even halt or reverse established fibrosis. In this review, we discuss the role of myofibroblasts in SSc-related fibrosis, with a special focus on their cellular origin and the signaling pathways implicated in their formation and persistent activation. Furthermore, we provide an overview of potential therapeutic strategies targeting myofibroblasts that may be able to counteract fibrosis in this pathological condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eloisa Romano
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Florence, Florence. Italy
| | - Irene Rosa
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Florence, Florence. Italy
| | - Bianca Saveria Fioretto
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Florence, Florence. Italy
| | - Marco Matucci Cerinic
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Florence, Florence. Italy
| | - Mirko Manetti
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Anatomy and Histology, University of Florence, Florence. Italy
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14
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Dees C, Chakraborty D, Distler JHW. Cellular and molecular mechanisms in fibrosis. Exp Dermatol 2021; 30:121-131. [PMID: 32931037 DOI: 10.1111/exd.14193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2020] [Revised: 08/14/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The activation of fibroblasts is required for physiological tissue remodelling such as wound healing. However, when the regulatory mechanisms are disrupted and fibroblasts remain persistently activated, the progressive deposition of extracellular matrix proteins leads to tissue fibrosis, which results in dysfunction or even loss of function of the affected organ. Although fibrosis has been recognized as a major cause of morbidity and mortality in modern societies, there are only few treatment options available that directly disrupt the release of extracellular matrix from fibroblasts. Intensive research in recent years, however, identified several pathways as core fibrotic mechanisms that are shared across different fibrotic diseases and organs. We discuss herein selection of those core pathways, especially downstream of the profibrotic TGF-β pathway, which are druggable and which may be transferable from bench to bedside.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara Dees
- Friedrich-Alexander-University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Debomita Chakraborty
- Friedrich-Alexander-University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Jörg H W Distler
- Friedrich-Alexander-University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
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15
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Wasson CW, Ross RL, Wells R, Corinaldesi C, Georgiou IC, Riobo-Del Galdo NA, Del Galdo F. Long non-coding RNA HOTAIR induces GLI2 expression through Notch signalling in systemic sclerosis dermal fibroblasts. Arthritis Res Ther 2020; 22:286. [PMID: 33303026 PMCID: PMC7726858 DOI: 10.1186/s13075-020-02376-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is characterised by tissue fibrosis of the major organs of the body including the skin, lungs and heart. We have previously reported that the lncRNA HOTAIR plays a central role in the activation of SSc myofibroblasts, the key cellular elements of fibrosis. HOTAIR induces fibroblast activation through H3K27me3-mediated activation of the Notch signalling pathway. Here we aimed to identify the signalling events downstream of Notch that drive SSc myofibroblast activation. METHODS Patient fibroblasts were obtained from full-thickness forearm skin biopsies of 3 adult patients with SSc of recent onset. The lncRNA HOTAIR was expressed in healthy dermal fibroblasts by lentiviral transduction. Hedgehog signalling pathway was inhibited with GANT61 and GLI2 siRNA. Gamma secretase inhibitors RO4929097 and DAPT were used to block Notch signalling. GSK126 was used to inhibit Enhancer of Zeste 2 (EZH2). RESULTS Overexpression of HOTAIR in dermal fibroblasts induced the expression of the Hedgehog pathway transcription factor GLI2. This is mediated by activation of Notch signalling following epigenetic downregulation of miRNA-34a expression. Inhibition of H3K27 methylation and Notch signalling reduced expression of GLI2 in HOTAIR-expressing fibroblasts as well as in SSc dermal fibroblasts. Importantly, the inhibition of GLI2 function using GANT61 or siRNA mitigates the pro-fibrotic phenotype induced by HOTAIR. CONCLUSIONS Our data indicates that GLI2 expression is stably upregulated in SSc myofibroblasts through HOTAIR and that GLI2 mediates the expression of pro-fibrotic markers downstream of Notch.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher W Wasson
- Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Rebecca L Ross
- Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Rebecca Wells
- Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Clarissa Corinaldesi
- Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Ioanna Ch Georgiou
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Natalia A Riobo-Del Galdo
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
- Leeds Institute of Medical Research, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Francesco Del Galdo
- Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK.
- Scleroderma Programme, NIHR Leeds Musculoskeletal Biomedical Research Centre, Leeds, UK.
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16
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Wei C, Pan Y, Zhang Y, Dai Y, Jiang L, Shi L, Yang W, Xu S, Zhang Y, Xu W, Zhang Y, Lin X, Zhang S. Overactivated sonic hedgehog signaling aggravates intrauterine adhesion via inhibiting autophagy in endometrial stromal cells. Cell Death Dis 2020; 11:755. [PMID: 32934215 PMCID: PMC7492405 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-020-02956-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Revised: 08/17/2020] [Accepted: 08/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Autophagy can be dynamically induced in response to stresses and is an essential, ubiquitous intracellular recycling system that impacts the fate of damaged resident cells, thereby influencing wound healing. Endometrial fibrosis is a form of abnormal wound healing that causes intrauterine adhesion (IUA) and infertility. We previously demonstrated that overactivated sonic hedgehog (SHH) signaling exacerbated endometrial fibrosis, but the role of autophagy in this process is still unknown. Here, we report that impaired autophagy participates in SHH pathway-induced endometrial fibrosis. Endometrial stroma-myofibroblast transition accompanied by autophagy dysfunction was present in both endometrial biopsies of IUA patients and Amhr2cre/+R26-SmoM2+/− (AM2) transgenic mouse. Mechanistically, SHH pathway negatively regulated autophagy through pAKT-mTORC1 in a human endometrial stromal cell line (T-HESCs). Furthermore, SHH pathway-mediated fibrosis was partly counteracted by autophagy modulation in both T-HESCs and the murine IUA model. Specifically, the impact of SHH pathway inhibition (GANT61) was reversed by the pharmacological autophagy inhibitor chloroquine (CQ) or RNA interference of autophagy-related gene ATG5 or ATG7. Similar results were obtained from the murine IUA model treated with GANT61 and CQ. Moreover, promoting autophagy with rapamycin reduced fibrosis in the AM2 IUA model to baseline levels. In summary, defective autophagy is involved in SHH pathway-driven endometrial fibrosis, suggesting a potential novel molecular target for IUA treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Wei
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, China.,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, No. 3 Qingchun East Road, Jianggan District, Hangzhou, 310016, China
| | - Yibin Pan
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, China.,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, No. 3 Qingchun East Road, Jianggan District, Hangzhou, 310016, China
| | - Yinli Zhang
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, China.,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, No. 3 Qingchun East Road, Jianggan District, Hangzhou, 310016, China
| | - Yongdong Dai
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, China.,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, No. 3 Qingchun East Road, Jianggan District, Hangzhou, 310016, China
| | - Lingling Jiang
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, China.,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, No. 3 Qingchun East Road, Jianggan District, Hangzhou, 310016, China
| | - Libing Shi
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, China.,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, No. 3 Qingchun East Road, Jianggan District, Hangzhou, 310016, China
| | - Weijie Yang
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, China.,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, No. 3 Qingchun East Road, Jianggan District, Hangzhou, 310016, China
| | - Shiqian Xu
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, China.,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, No. 3 Qingchun East Road, Jianggan District, Hangzhou, 310016, China
| | - Yingyi Zhang
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, China.,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, No. 3 Qingchun East Road, Jianggan District, Hangzhou, 310016, China
| | - Wenzhi Xu
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, China.,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, No. 3 Qingchun East Road, Jianggan District, Hangzhou, 310016, China
| | - Yanling Zhang
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, China.,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, No. 3 Qingchun East Road, Jianggan District, Hangzhou, 310016, China
| | - Xiaona Lin
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, China. .,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, No. 3 Qingchun East Road, Jianggan District, Hangzhou, 310016, China.
| | - Songying Zhang
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, China. .,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, No. 3 Qingchun East Road, Jianggan District, Hangzhou, 310016, China.
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17
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Li X, Zhang W, Cao Q, Wang Z, Zhao M, Xu L, Zhuang Q. Mitochondrial dysfunction in fibrotic diseases. Cell Death Discov 2020; 6:80. [PMID: 32963808 PMCID: PMC7474731 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-020-00316-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Revised: 08/13/2020] [Accepted: 08/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Although fibrosis is a common pathological feature of most end-stage organ diseases, its pathogenesis remains unclear. There is growing evidence that mitochondrial dysfunction contributes to the development and progression of fibrosis. The heart, liver, kidney and lung are highly oxygen-consuming organs that are sensitive to mitochondrial dysfunction. Moreover, the fibrotic process of skin and islet is closely related to mitochondrial dysfunction as well. This review summarized emerging mechanisms related to mitochondrial dysfunction in different fibrotic organs and tissues above. First, it highlighted the important elucidation of mitochondria morphological changes, mitochondrial membrane potential and structural damage, mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) damage and reactive oxidative species (ROS) production, etc. Second, it introduced the abnormality of mitophagy and mitochondrial transfer also contributed to the fibrotic process. Therefore, with gaining the increasing knowledge of mitochondrial structure, function, and origin, we could kindle a new era for the diagnostic and therapeutic strategies of many fibrotic diseases based on mitochondrial dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyu Li
- Transplantation Center of the 3rd Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 410013 Changsha, Hunan China
- Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, 410013 Changsha, Hunan China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Transplantation Center of the 3rd Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 410013 Changsha, Hunan China
- Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, 410013 Changsha, Hunan China
| | - Qingtai Cao
- Hunan Normal University School of Medicine, 410013 Changsha, Hunan China
| | - Zeyu Wang
- Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, 410013 Changsha, Hunan China
| | - Mingyi Zhao
- Pediatric Department of the 3rd Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 410013 Changsha, Hunan China
| | - Linyong Xu
- School of Life Science, Central South University, 410013 Changsha, Hunan China
| | - Quan Zhuang
- Transplantation Center of the 3rd Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 410013 Changsha, Hunan China
- Research Center of National Health Ministry on Transplantation Medicine, 410013 Changsha, Hunan China
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18
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Zhang Y, Shen L, Zhu H, Dreissigacker K, Distler D, Zhou X, Györfi AH, Bergmann C, Meng X, Dees C, Trinh-Minh T, Ludolph I, Horch R, Ramming A, Schett G, Distler JHW. PGC-1α regulates autophagy to promote fibroblast activation and tissue fibrosis. Ann Rheum Dis 2020; 79:1227-1233. [PMID: 32482644 DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2020-216963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2020] [Revised: 04/23/2020] [Accepted: 05/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Coactivators are a heterogeneous family of transcriptional regulators that are essential for modulation of transcriptional outcomes and fine-tune numerous cellular processes. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the role of the coactivator peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator-1α (PGC-1α) in the pathogenesis of systemic sclerosis (SSc). METHODS Expression of PGC-1α was analysed by real-time PCR, western blot and immunofluorescence. Modulation of autophagy was analysed by reporter studies by expression of autophagy-related genes. The effects of PGC-1α knockdown on collagen production and myofibroblast differentiation were analysed in cultured human fibroblasts and in two mouse models with fibroblast-specific knockout of PGC-1α. RESULTS The expression of PGC-1α was induced in dermal fibroblasts of patients with SSc and experimental murine fibrosis. Transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ), hypoxia and epigenetic mechanisms regulate the expression of PGC-1α in fibroblasts. Knockdown of PGC-1α prevented the activation of autophagy by TGFβ and this translated into reduced fibroblast-to-myofibroblast differentiation and collagen release. Knockout of PGC-1α in fibroblasts prevented skin fibrosis induced by bleomycin and by overexpression of a constitutively active TGFβ receptor type I. Moreover, pharmacological inhibition of PGC-1α by SR18292 induced regression of pre-established, bleomycin-induced skin fibrosis. CONCLUSION PGC-1α is upregulated in SSc and promotes autophagy to foster TGFβ-induced fibroblast activation. Targeting of PGC-1α prevents aberrant autophagy, inhibits fibroblast activation and tissue fibrosis and may over therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Zhang
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Lichong Shen
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Honglin Zhu
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany.,Department of Rheumatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, PR China
| | - Katja Dreissigacker
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Diana Distler
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Xiang Zhou
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Andrea Hermina Györfi
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Christina Bergmann
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Xianyi Meng
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Clara Dees
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Thuong Trinh-Minh
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Ingo Ludolph
- Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery and Laboratory for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), University Hospital of Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Raymund Horch
- Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery and Laboratory for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), University Hospital of Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Andreas Ramming
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Georg Schett
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Jörg H W Distler
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
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Matissek SJ, Elsawa SF. GLI3: a mediator of genetic diseases, development and cancer. Cell Commun Signal 2020; 18:54. [PMID: 32245491 PMCID: PMC7119169 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-020-00540-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2019] [Accepted: 02/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The transcription factor GLI3 is a member of the Hedgehog (Hh/HH) signaling pathway that can exist as a full length (Gli3-FL/GLI3-FL) or repressor (Gli3-R/GLI3-R) form. In response to HH activation, GLI3-FL regulates HH genes by targeting the GLI1 promoter. In the absence of HH signaling, GLI3 is phosphorylated leading to its partial degradation and the generation of GLI3-R which represses HH functions. GLI3 is also involved in tissue development, immune cell development and cancer. The absence of Gli3 in mice impaired brain and lung development and GLI3 mutations in humans are the cause of Greig cephalopolysyndactyly (GCPS) and Pallister Hall syndromes (PHS). In the immune system GLI3 regulates B, T and NK-cells and may be involved in LPS-TLR4 signaling. In addition, GLI3 was found to be upregulated in multiple cancers and was found to positively regulate cancerous behavior such as anchorage-independent growth, angiogenesis, proliferation and migration with the exception in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and medulloblastoma where GLI plays an anti-cancerous role. Finally, GLI3 is a target of microRNA. Here, we will review the biological significance of GLI3 and discuss gaps in our understanding of this molecule. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephan J. Matissek
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Biomedical Sciences, University of New Hampshire, 46 College Rd Rudman 291, Durham, NH 03824 USA
| | - Sherine F. Elsawa
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Biomedical Sciences, University of New Hampshire, 46 College Rd Rudman 291, Durham, NH 03824 USA
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20
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Zhang Y, Distler JHW. Therapeutic molecular targets of SSc-ILD. JOURNAL OF SCLERODERMA AND RELATED DISORDERS 2020; 5:17-30. [DOI: 10.1177/2397198319899013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis is a fibrosing chronic connective tissue disease of unknown etiology. A major hallmark of systemic sclerosis is the uncontrolled and persistent activation of fibroblasts, which release excessive amounts of extracellular matrix, lead to organ dysfunction, and cause high mobility and motility of patients. Systemic sclerosis–associated interstitial lung disease is one of the most common fibrotic organ manifestations in systemic sclerosis and a major cause of death. Treatment options for systemic sclerosis–associated interstitial lung disease and other fibrotic manifestations, however, remain very limited. Thus, there is a huge medical need for effective therapies that target tissue fibrosis, vascular alterations, inflammation, and autoimmune disease in systemic sclerosis–associated interstitial lung disease. In this review, we discuss data suggesting therapeutic ways to target different genes in distinct tissues/organs that contribute to the development of SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Zhang
- Department of Internal Medicine 3—Rheumatology and Immunology, University Hospital Erlangen, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Jörg HW Distler
- Department of Internal Medicine 3—Rheumatology and Immunology, University Hospital Erlangen, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
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21
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Soare A, Györfi HA, Matei AE, Dees C, Rauber S, Wohlfahrt T, Chen C, Ludolph I, Horch RE, Bäuerle T, Hörsten S, Mihai C, Distler O, Ramming A, Schett G, Distler JHW. Dipeptidylpeptidase 4 as a Marker of Activated Fibroblasts and a Potential Target for the Treatment of Fibrosis in Systemic Sclerosis. Arthritis Rheumatol 2019; 72:137-149. [DOI: 10.1002/art.41058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2018] [Accepted: 07/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Alina Soare
- Friedrich‐Alexander University Erlangen‐Nuremberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany, and Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy Bucharest Romania
| | - Hermina A. Györfi
- Friedrich‐Alexander University Erlangen‐Nuremberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen Erlangen Germany
| | - Alexandru E. Matei
- Friedrich‐Alexander University Erlangen‐Nuremberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen Erlangen Germany
| | - Clara Dees
- Friedrich‐Alexander University Erlangen‐Nuremberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen Erlangen Germany
| | - Simon Rauber
- Friedrich‐Alexander University Erlangen‐Nuremberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen Erlangen Germany
| | - Thomas Wohlfahrt
- Friedrich‐Alexander University Erlangen‐Nuremberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen Erlangen Germany
| | - Chih‐Wei Chen
- Friedrich‐Alexander University Erlangen‐Nuremberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen Erlangen Germany
| | - Ingo Ludolph
- Friedrich‐Alexander University Erlangen‐Nuremberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen Erlangen Germany
| | - Raymund E. Horch
- Friedrich‐Alexander University Erlangen‐Nuremberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen Erlangen Germany
| | - Tobias Bäuerle
- Friedrich‐Alexander University Erlangen‐Nuremberg Erlangen Germany
| | - Stephan Hörsten
- Friedrich‐Alexander University Erlangen‐Nuremberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen Erlangen Germany
| | - Carina Mihai
- University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland, and Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy Bucharest Romania
| | | | - Andreas Ramming
- Friedrich‐Alexander University Erlangen‐Nuremberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen Erlangen Germany
| | - Georg Schett
- Friedrich‐Alexander University Erlangen‐Nuremberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen Erlangen Germany
| | - Jörg H. W. Distler
- Friedrich‐Alexander University Erlangen‐Nuremberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen Erlangen Germany
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22
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Distler JHW, Györfi AH, Ramanujam M, Whitfield ML, Königshoff M, Lafyatis R. Shared and distinct mechanisms of fibrosis. Nat Rev Rheumatol 2019; 15:705-730. [DOI: 10.1038/s41584-019-0322-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 197] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/03/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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23
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Chen Z, Wan L, Jin X, Wang W, Li D. Transforming growth factor-β signaling confers hepatic stellate cells progenitor features after partial hepatectomy. J Cell Physiol 2019; 235:2655-2667. [PMID: 31584200 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.29169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2019] [Accepted: 08/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Liver regeneration involves not only hepatocyte replication but progenitor aggregation and scarring. Partial hepatectomy (PH), an established model for liver regeneration, reactivates transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling. Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are primarily responding cells for TGF-β and resident in stem cell niche. In the current study, PH mice were treated with SB-431542, an inhibitor of TGF-β Type I receptor, aiming to address the role of TGF-β signaling on the fate determination of HSCs during liver regeneration. After PH, control mice exhibited HSCs activation, progenitor cells accumulation, and a fraction of HSCs acquired the phenotype of hepatocyte or cholangiocyte. Blocking TGF-β signaling delayed proliferation, impaired progenitor response, and scarring repair. In SB-431542 group, merely no HSCs were found coexpressed progenitor makers, such as SOX9 and AFP. Inhibition of TGF-β pathway disturbed the epithelial-mesenchymal transitions and diminished the nuclear accumulation of β-catenin as well as the expression of cytochrome P450 2E1 in HSC during liver regeneration. We identify a key role of TGF-β signaling on promoting HSC transition, which subsequently becomes progenitor for generating liver epithelial cells after PH. This process might interact with an acknowledged stem cell function signaling, Wnt/β-catenin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zixin Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Li Wan
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xin Jin
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Dewei Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
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24
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Benvenuto M, Mattera R, Miele MT, Giganti MG, Tresoldi I, Albonici L, Manzari V, Modesti A, Masuelli L, Bei R. Effects of a natural multi-component compound formulation on the growth, morphology and extracellular matrix production of human adult dermal fibroblasts. Exp Ther Med 2019; 18:2639-2647. [PMID: 31572512 PMCID: PMC6755435 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2019.7872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2019] [Accepted: 07/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
The extracellular matrix (ECM) creates a tissue microenvironment able to regulate cellular signaling. The loss of ECM plasticity is associated with several pathologies, especially those involving chronic inflammation, therefore, the ECM represents a potential therapeutic target for certain conditions. The present study investigated the effects of a natural multi-component compound formulation, Galium-Heel®, on the growth, morphology and ECM production of human dermal fibroblasts (HDF). The effects of the formulation on HDF growth and morphology were assessed by sulforhodamine B assay, trypan blue exclusion staining, FACS and ultrastructural analyses. The effect of the compound on reactive oxygen species production by HDF was performed by dichlorofluorescin diacetate assay. The expression of ECM components, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and signaling molecules was analyzed by western blot analysis. The present results demonstrated that Galium-Heel® did not significantly affect HDF growth, survival, cell cycle or morphology indicating the biocompatibility of the formulation. The formulation demonstrated antioxidant activity. Galium-Heel® was able to modulate ECM by regulating collagens (type I and III) and MMPs-3 and −7 expression. In addition, the formulation was able to regulate molecules involved in TGF-β signalling, including mitogen activated kinase-like protein, GLI family zinc finger 2 and pro-survival proteins such as AKT. The present results demonstrating the effects of a natural multi-component compound on ECM composition, highlighted the possibility of pharmacologically modulating ECM molecules. The recovery and the maintenance of ECM homeostasis might be considered as a potential therapeutic goal to ameliorate pathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Benvenuto
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome 'Tor Vergata', I-00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Rosanna Mattera
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome 'Tor Vergata', I-00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Martino Tony Miele
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome 'Tor Vergata', I-00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Gabriella Giganti
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome 'Tor Vergata', I-00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Ilaria Tresoldi
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome 'Tor Vergata', I-00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Loredana Albonici
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome 'Tor Vergata', I-00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Vittorio Manzari
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome 'Tor Vergata', I-00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Modesti
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome 'Tor Vergata', I-00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Masuelli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome 'Sapienza', I-00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Roberto Bei
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome 'Tor Vergata', I-00133 Rome, Italy
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Walsh T. Editor’s Pick: Systemic Sclerosis: The Role of YAP/TAZ in Disease Pathogenesis. EUROPEAN MEDICAL JOURNAL 2019. [DOI: 10.33590/emj/10310340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a systemic autoimmune condition of unknown cause. Yes-Associated Protein/Tafazzin (YAP/TAZ) are transcriptional coactivators previously demonstrated to be involved in cellular stretch biology, and form the principal effector molecules of the Hippo signalling pathway. The association between YAP/TAZ and stretch is contingent upon their cytoplasmic localisation (with nuclear translocation, the cell adopts a relaxed state). The author weighs the evidence for a central role for YAP/TAZ signalling in scleroderma spanning the major clinical features of the condition. Several of the features unique to SSc are mediated by cytoplasmic localisation of YAP/TAZ, including the stretch phenotype (through binding to NF-2), arterial lumenal obliteration (through their binding to angiomotin), the promotion of hypergammaglobulinaemia (via feedback to the upstream Hippo signalling molecule Mammalian Ste20-like Kinase 1), and the induction of B-Lymphocyte-Induced Maturation Protein-1 leading to the adoption of Th2 lineage, prominent in SSc. One observes that the induction of the fibrotic phenotype of scleroderma is mediated through GLI1/GLI2 (the effector molecules of the Hedgehog pathway). GLI1/GLI2 are induced to reciprocally enter the nucleus when YAP/TAZ is intracytoplasmic. The latter explains the characteristically increased connective tissue growth factor 2 and endothelin-1 expression. In this article, the author references some examples of the role of YAP/TAZ in the biophysically similar condition nephrogenic systemic fibrosis and suggests a role of YAP/TAZ cytoplasmic sequestration in programmed cell death protein 1-ligand antagonist-induced scleroderma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Walsh
- Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Preston, UK
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26
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Peng L, Yang C, Yin J, Ge M, Wang S, Zhang G, Zhang Q, Xu F, Dai Z, Xie L, Li Y, Si JQ, Ma K. TGF-β2 Induces Gli1 in a Smad3-Dependent Manner Against Cerebral Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury After Isoflurane Post-conditioning in Rats. Front Neurosci 2019; 13:636. [PMID: 31297044 PMCID: PMC6608402 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2019.00636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2018] [Accepted: 06/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Isoflurane (ISO) post-conditioning attenuates cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury, but the underlying mechanism is incompletely elucidated. Transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) and hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathways govern a wide range of mechanisms in the central nervous system. We aimed to investigate the effect of the TGF-β2/Smad3 and sonic hedgehog (Shh)/Glioblastoma (Gli) signaling pathway and their crosstalk in the hippocampus of rats with ISO post-conditioning after cerebral I/R injury. Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were subjected to middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO), 1.5 h occlusion and 24 h reperfusion (MCAO/R). To assess the effect of ISO after I/R injury, various approaches were used, including neurobehavioral tests, TTC staining, HE staining, Nissl staining, TUNEL staining, immunofluorescence (IF), qRT-PCR (quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction) and Western blot. The ISO post-conditioning group (ISO group) received 1 h ISO post-conditioning when reperfusion was initiated, leading to lower infarct volumes and neurologic deficit scores, more surviving neurons, and less damaged and apoptotic neurons. IF staining, qRT-PCR and Western blot showed high expression levels of TGF-β2, Shh and Gli1 in the hippocampal CA1 of the ISO group. Phosphorylated Smad3 (p-Smad3), Patched (Ptch), and Smoothed (Smo) were also increased at protein level in the ISO group, whereas total Smad3 expression did not change in all groups. When TGF-β2 inhibitor, pirfenidone, or Smad3 inhibitor, SIS3 HCl, were administered, the expression levels of p-Smad3 and Gli1 were reduced, and surviving pyramidal neurons decreased. By contrast, the expression levels of TGF-β2 and p-Smad3 did not change significantly after pre-injection of Smo inhibitor cyclopamine, but reduced the expression levels of Shh, Ptch, and Gli1. Moreover, Gli showed the lowest expression levels with pirfenidone combined with cyclopamine. These findings indicate that the TGF-β and hedgehog signaling pathways mediate the neuroprotection of ISO post-conditioning after cerebral I/R injury, and crosstalk between two pathways at the Gli1 level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Peng
- Department of Anesthesiology, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Shihezi University, Shihezi, China
| | - Chengwei Yang
- Department of Anesthesiology, First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Jiangwen Yin
- Department of Anesthesiology, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Shihezi University, Shihezi, China
| | - Mingyue Ge
- Department of Anesthesiology, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Shihezi University, Shihezi, China
| | - Sheng Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Guixing Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Shihezi University, Shihezi, China
| | - Qingtong Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Shihezi University, Shihezi, China
| | - Feng Xu
- Department of Anesthesiology, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Shihezi University, Shihezi, China
| | - Zhigang Dai
- Department of Anesthesiology, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Shihezi University, Shihezi, China
| | - Liping Xie
- Department of Anesthesiology, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Shihezi University, Shihezi, China
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Shihezi University, Shihezi, China
| | - Jun-Qiang Si
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Shihezi University, Shihezi, China
| | - Ketao Ma
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Shihezi University, Shihezi, China
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27
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Liang R, Kagwiria R, Zehender A, Dees C, Bergmann C, Ramming A, Krasowska D, Michalska-Jakubus M, Kreuter A, Kraner ME, Schett G, Distler JHW. Acyltransferase skinny hedgehog regulates TGFβ-dependent fibroblast activation in SSc. Ann Rheum Dis 2019; 78:1269-1273. [PMID: 31177096 DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2019-215066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2019] [Revised: 05/10/2019] [Accepted: 05/24/2019] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is characterised by aberrant hedgehog signalling in fibrotic tissues. The hedgehog acyltransferase (HHAT) skinny hedgehog catalyses the attachment of palmitate onto sonic hedgehog (SHH). Palmitoylation of SHH is required for multimerisation of SHH proteins, which is thought to promote long-range, endocrine hedgehog signalling. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of HHAT in the pathogenesis of SSc. METHODS Expression of HHAT was analysed by real-time polymerase chain reaction(RT-PCR), immunofluorescence and histomorphometry. The effects of HHAT knockdown were analysed by reporter assays, target gene studies and quantification of collagen release and myofibroblast differentiation in cultured human fibroblasts and in two mouse models. RESULTS The expression of HHAT was upregulated in dermal fibroblasts of patients with SSc in a transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ)/SMAD-dependent manner. Knockdown of HHAT reduced TGFβ-induced hedgehog signalling as well as myofibroblast differentiation and collagen release in human dermal fibroblasts. Knockdown of HHAT in the skin of mice ameliorated bleomycin-induced and topoisomerase-induced skin fibrosis. CONCLUSION HHAT is regulated in SSc in a TGFβ-dependent manner and in turn stimulates TGFβ-induced long-range hedgehog signalling to promote fibroblast activation and tissue fibrosis. Targeting of HHAT might be a novel approach to more selectively interfere with the profibrotic effects of long-range hedgehog signalling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruifang Liang
- Department of Internal Medicine 3- Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany
| | - Rosebeth Kagwiria
- Department of Internal Medicine 3- Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany
| | - Ariella Zehender
- Department of Internal Medicine 3- Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany
| | - Clara Dees
- Department of Internal Medicine 3- Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany
| | - Christina Bergmann
- Department of Internal Medicine 3- Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany
| | - Andreas Ramming
- Department of Internal Medicine 3- Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany
| | - Dorota Krasowska
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Pediatric Dermatology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | | | - Alexander Kreuter
- Department of Dermatology, Venereolog and Allergology, HELIOS St Elisabeth Hospital Oberhausen, University Witten-Herdecke, Oberhausen, Germany
| | - Max E Kraner
- Department of Biology, Division of Biochemistry, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Georg Schett
- Department of Internal Medicine 3- Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany
| | - Jörg H W Distler
- Department of Internal Medicine 3- Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany
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28
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Gli signaling pathway modulates fibroblast activation and facilitates scar formation in pulmonary fibrosis. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2019; 514:684-690. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2019.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2019] [Accepted: 05/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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29
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Zehender A, Huang J, Györfi AH, Matei AE, Trinh-Minh T, Xu X, Li YN, Chen CW, Lin J, Dees C, Beyer C, Gelse K, Zhang ZY, Bergmann C, Ramming A, Birchmeier W, Distler O, Schett G, Distler JHW. The tyrosine phosphatase SHP2 controls TGFβ-induced STAT3 signaling to regulate fibroblast activation and fibrosis. Nat Commun 2018; 9:3259. [PMID: 30108215 PMCID: PMC6092362 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-018-05768-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2017] [Accepted: 07/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Uncontrolled activation of TGFβ signaling is a common denominator of fibrotic tissue remodeling. Here we characterize the tyrosine phosphatase SHP2 as a molecular checkpoint for TGFβ-induced JAK2/STAT3 signaling and as a potential target for the treatment of fibrosis. TGFβ stimulates the phosphatase activity of SHP2, although this effect is in part counterbalanced by inhibitory effects on SHP2 expression. Stimulation with TGFβ promotes recruitment of SHP2 to JAK2 in fibroblasts with subsequent dephosphorylation of JAK2 at Y570 and activation of STAT3. The effects of SHP2 on STAT3 activation translate into major regulatory effects of SHP2 on fibroblast activation and tissue fibrosis. Genetic or pharmacologic inactivation of SHP2 promotes accumulation of JAK2 phosphorylated at Y570, reduces JAK2/STAT3 signaling, inhibits TGFβ-induced fibroblast activation and ameliorates dermal and pulmonary fibrosis. Given the availability of potent SHP2 inhibitors, SHP2 might thus be a potential target for the treatment of fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariella Zehender
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) and University Hospital Erlangen, Ulmenweg 18, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Jingang Huang
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) and University Hospital Erlangen, Ulmenweg 18, 91054, Erlangen, Germany.
| | - Andrea-Hermina Györfi
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) and University Hospital Erlangen, Ulmenweg 18, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Alexandru-Emil Matei
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) and University Hospital Erlangen, Ulmenweg 18, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Thuong Trinh-Minh
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) and University Hospital Erlangen, Ulmenweg 18, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Xiaohan Xu
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) and University Hospital Erlangen, Ulmenweg 18, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Yi-Nan Li
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) and University Hospital Erlangen, Ulmenweg 18, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Chih-Wei Chen
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) and University Hospital Erlangen, Ulmenweg 18, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Jianping Lin
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University, 575 Stadium Mall Drive Indiana, West Lafayette, 47907, USA
| | - Clara Dees
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) and University Hospital Erlangen, Ulmenweg 18, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Christian Beyer
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) and University Hospital Erlangen, Ulmenweg 18, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Kolja Gelse
- Department of Trauma Surgery, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Krankenhausstraße 12, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Zhong-Yin Zhang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University, 575 Stadium Mall Drive Indiana, West Lafayette, 47907, USA
| | - Christina Bergmann
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) and University Hospital Erlangen, Ulmenweg 18, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Andreas Ramming
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) and University Hospital Erlangen, Ulmenweg 18, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Walter Birchmeier
- Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC), Robert-Rössle-Str. 10, 13092, Berlin, Germany
| | - Oliver Distler
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Zurich, Gloriastrasse 25, 8091, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Georg Schett
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) and University Hospital Erlangen, Ulmenweg 18, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Jörg H W Distler
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) and University Hospital Erlangen, Ulmenweg 18, 91054, Erlangen, Germany.
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Györfi AH, Matei AE, Distler JH. Targeting TGF-β signaling for the treatment of fibrosis. Matrix Biol 2018; 68-69:8-27. [DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2017.12.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 141] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2017] [Accepted: 12/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
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Langie SAS, Moisse M, Szarc Vel Szic K, Van Der Plas E, Koppen G, De Prins S, Louwies T, Nelen V, Van Camp G, Lambrechts D, Schoeters G, Vanden Berghe W, De Boever P. GLI2 promoter hypermethylation in saliva of children with a respiratory allergy. Clin Epigenetics 2018; 10:50. [PMID: 29682088 PMCID: PMC5896137 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-018-0484-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2017] [Accepted: 03/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The prevalence of respiratory allergy in children is increasing. Epigenetic DNA methylation changes are plausible underlying molecular mechanisms. Results Saliva samples collected in substudies of two longitudinal birth cohorts in Belgium (FLEHS1 & FLEHS2) were used to discover and confirm DNA methylation signatures that can differentiate individuals with respiratory allergy from healthy subjects. Genome-wide analysis with Illumina Methylation 450K BeadChips revealed 23 differentially methylated gene regions (DMRs) in saliva from 11y old allergic children (N=26) vs. controls (N=20) in FLEHS1. A subset of 7 DMRs was selected for confirmation by iPLEX MassArray analysis. First, iPLEX analysis was performed in the same 46 FLEHS1 samples for analytical confirmation of the findings obtained during the discovery phase. iPLEX results correlated significantly with the 450K array data (P <0.0001) and confirmed 4 out of the 7 DMRs. Aiming for additional biological confirmation, the 7 DMRs were analyzed using iPLEX in a substudy of an independent birth cohort (FLEHS2; N=19 cases vs. 20 controls, aged 5 years). One DMR in the GLI2 promoter region showed a consistent statistically significant hypermethylation in individuals with respiratory allergy across the two birth cohorts and technologies. In addition to its involvement in TGF-β signaling and T-helper differentiation, GLI2 has a regulating role in lung development. Conclusion GLI2 is considered an interesting candidate DNA methylation marker for respiratory allergy. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13148-018-0484-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabine A S Langie
- 1VITO- Sustainable Health, Boeretang 200, 2400 Mol, Belgium.,2Centre for Environmental Sciences, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Matthieu Moisse
- 3Laboratory for Translational Genetics, Center for Cancer Biology, VIB and KU Leuven, Campus Gasthuisberg, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Katarzyna Szarc Vel Szic
- 1VITO- Sustainable Health, Boeretang 200, 2400 Mol, Belgium.,4Proteinchemistry, Proteomics & Epigenetic Signaling (PPES), Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Ellen Van Der Plas
- 1VITO- Sustainable Health, Boeretang 200, 2400 Mol, Belgium.,7Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Gudrun Koppen
- 1VITO- Sustainable Health, Boeretang 200, 2400 Mol, Belgium
| | - Sofie De Prins
- 1VITO- Sustainable Health, Boeretang 200, 2400 Mol, Belgium
| | - Tijs Louwies
- 1VITO- Sustainable Health, Boeretang 200, 2400 Mol, Belgium
| | - Vera Nelen
- Environment and Health unit, Provincial Institute of Hygiene, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Guy Van Camp
- 6Center for Medical Genetics, University of Antwerp and Antwerp University hospital, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Diether Lambrechts
- 3Laboratory for Translational Genetics, Center for Cancer Biology, VIB and KU Leuven, Campus Gasthuisberg, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Greet Schoeters
- 1VITO- Sustainable Health, Boeretang 200, 2400 Mol, Belgium.,7Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium.,8Department of Environmental Medicine, Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Wim Vanden Berghe
- 4Proteinchemistry, Proteomics & Epigenetic Signaling (PPES), Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Patrick De Boever
- 1VITO- Sustainable Health, Boeretang 200, 2400 Mol, Belgium.,2Centre for Environmental Sciences, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
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Xiao H, Zhang GF, Liao XP, Li XJ, Zhang J, Lin H, Chen Z, Zhang X. Anti-fibrotic effects of pirfenidone by interference with the hedgehog signalling pathway in patients with systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease. Int J Rheum Dis 2018; 21:477-486. [PMID: 29316328 DOI: 10.1111/1756-185x.13247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
AIM To determine whether pirfenidone attenuates lung fibrosis by interfering with the hedgehog (Hh) signalling pathway in patients with systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease (SSc-ILD). METHODS Twenty-five SSc-ILD patients (20 first visit, five who underwent pirfenidone treatment for 6 months) and 10 healthy controls were recruited. Lung tissues were obtained by open-chest surgery, and primary lung fibroblasts were isolated, cultured and stimulated with pirfenidone. The levels of the proteins glioma-associated oncogene 1 (GLI1), suppressor of fused (Sufu), α-smooth muscle actin, and fibronectin in lung tissues or fibroblasts were determined by Western blotting. The messenger RNA levels of GLI1, glioma-associated oncogene 2, protein patched homolog 1, and Sufu in lung tissues or fibroblasts were determined by quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction. Meanwhile, the levels of phosphorylation glycogen synthase kinasep-3β (pGSK-3β), phosphorylation SMAD2 (pSMAD2), and phosphorylation c-Jun N-terminal kinase (pJNK) in fibroblasts were determined by Western blotting. RESULTS Hh pathway activation was increased in the lung tissue of SSc-ILD patients and was decreased by pirfenidone, Sufu was upregulated in lung fibroblasts isolated from SSc-ILD patients after pirfenidone challenge, and pirfenidone inhibited the phosphorylation of GSK-3β signalling. CONCLUSION Pirfenidone has anti-fibrotic effects in SSc-ILD patients by interfering with both the Hh signalling pathway and the GSK-3β signalling pathway via the regulation of Sufu expression. These results might promote its use in other Hh driven lung diseases such as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and especially the interstitial lung disease associated with connective tissue diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua Xiao
- Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Rheumatology, Guangdong General Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Rheumatology, The First Peoples' Hospital of Chenzhou, Hunan, China
| | - Guang-Feng Zhang
- Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Rheumatology, Guangdong General Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiang-Ping Liao
- Department of Rheumatology, The First Peoples' Hospital of Chenzhou, Hunan, China
| | - Xiao-Jie Li
- Department of Pathology, The First Peoples' Hospital of Chenzhou, Hunan, China
| | - Jian Zhang
- Statistics of Translational Medicine Institute, National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for High-Through Molecular Diagnosis Technology, The First Peoples' Hospital of Chenzhou, Hunan, China
| | - Haobo Lin
- Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Rheumatology, Guangdong General Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhe Chen
- Department of Rheumatology, The First Peoples' Hospital of Chenzhou, Hunan, China
| | - Xiao Zhang
- Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Rheumatology, Guangdong General Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China
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Sacchetti C, Bottini N. Protein Tyrosine Phosphatases in Systemic Sclerosis: Potential Pathogenic Players and Therapeutic Targets. Curr Rheumatol Rep 2017; 19:28. [PMID: 28397126 DOI: 10.1007/s11926-017-0655-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The pathogenesis of systemic sclerosis depends on a complex interplay between autoimmunity, vasculopathy, and fibrosis. Reversible phosphorylation on tyrosine residues, in response to growth factors and other stimuli, critically regulates each one of these three key pathogenic processes. Protein tyrosine kinases, the enzymes that catalyze addition of phosphate to tyrosine residues, are known players in systemic sclerosis, and tyrosine kinase inhibitors are undergoing clinical trials for treatment of this disease. Until recently, the role of tyrosine phosphatases-the enzymes that counteract the action of tyrosine kinases by removing phosphate from tyrosine residues-in systemic sclerosis has remained largely unknown. Here, we review the function of tyrosine phosphatases in pathways relevant to the pathogenesis of systemic sclerosis and their potential promise as therapeutic targets to halt progression of this debilitating rheumatic disease. RECENT FINDINGS Protein tyrosine phosphatases are emerging as important regulators of a multitude of signaling pathways and undergoing validation as molecular targets for cancer and other common diseases. Recent advances in drug discovery are paving the ways to develop new classes of tyrosine phosphatase modulators to treat human diseases. Although so far only few reports have focused on tyrosine phosphatases in systemic sclerosis, these enzymes play a role in multiple pathways relevant to disease pathogenesis. Further studies in this field are warranted to explore the potential of tyrosine phosphatases as drug targets for systemic sclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristiano Sacchetti
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Immunology, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive MC #0656, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Nunzio Bottini
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Immunology, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive MC #0656, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA.
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Zhang Y, Liang R, Chen CW, Mallano T, Dees C, Distler A, Reich A, Bergmann C, Ramming A, Gelse K, Mielenz D, Distler O, Schett G, Distler JHW. JAK1-dependent transphosphorylation of JAK2 limits the antifibrotic effects of selective JAK2 inhibitors on long-term treatment. Ann Rheum Dis 2017; 76:1467-1475. [DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2016-210911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2016] [Revised: 02/28/2017] [Accepted: 04/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
ObjectivesJanus kinase 2 (JAK2) has recently been described as a novel downstream mediator of the pro-fibrotic effects of transforming growth factor-β. Although JAK2 inhibitors are in clinical use for myelodysplastic syndromes, patients often rapidly develop resistance. Tumour cells can escape the therapeutic effects of selective JAK2 inhibitors by mutation-independent transactivation of JAK2 by JAK1. Here, we used selective JAK2 inhibition as a model to test the hypothesis that chronic treatment may provoke resistance by facilitating non-physiological signalling pathways in fibroblasts.MethodsThe antifibrotic effects of long-term treatment with selective JAK2 inhibitors and reactivation of JAK2 signalling by JAK1-dependent transphosphorylation was analysed in cultured fibroblasts and experimental dermal and pulmonary fibrosis. Combined JAK1/JAK2 inhibition and co-treatment with an HSP90 inhibitor were evaluated as strategies to overcome resistance.ResultsThe antifibrotic effects of selective JAK2 inhibitors on fibroblasts decreased with prolonged treatment as JAK2 signalling was reactivated by JAK1-dependent transphosphorylation of JAK2. This reactivation could be prevented by HSP90 inhibition, which destabilised JAK2 protein, or with combined JAK1/JAK2 inhibitors. Treatment with combined JAK1/JAK2 inhibitors or with JAK2 inhibitors in combination with HSP90 inhibitors was more effective than monotherapy with JAK2 inhibitors in bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis and in adTBR-induced dermal fibrosis.ConclusionFibroblasts can develop resistance to chronic treatment with JAK2 inhibitors by induction of non-physiological JAK1-dependent transactivation of JAK2 and that inhibition of this compensatory signalling pathway, for example, by co-inhibition of JAK1 or HSP90 is important to maintain the antifibrotic effects of JAK2 inhibition with long-term treatment.
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