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Nishide M, Shimagami H, Kumanogoh A. Single-cell analysis in rheumatic and allergic diseases: insights for clinical practice. Nat Rev Immunol 2024:10.1038/s41577-024-01043-3. [PMID: 38914790 DOI: 10.1038/s41577-024-01043-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
Since the advent of single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) methodology, single-cell analysis has become a powerful tool for exploration of cellular networks and dysregulated immune responses in disease pathogenesis. Advanced bioinformatics tools have enabled the combined analysis of scRNA-seq data and information on various cell properties, such as cell surface molecular profiles, chromatin accessibility and spatial information, leading to a deeper understanding of pathology. This Review provides an overview of the achievements in single-cell analysis applied to clinical samples of rheumatic and allergic diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, systemic sclerosis, allergic airway diseases and atopic dermatitis, with an expanded scope beyond peripheral blood cells to include local diseased tissues. Despite the valuable insights that single-cell analysis has provided into disease pathogenesis, challenges remain in translating single-cell findings into clinical practice and developing personalized treatment strategies. Beyond understanding the atlas of cellular diversity, we discuss the application of data obtained in each study to clinical practice, with a focus on identifying biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masayuki Nishide
- Department of Respiratory Medicine and Clinical Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan.
- Department of Immunopathology, World Premier International Research Center Initiative (WPI), Immunology Frontier Research Center (IFReC), Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan.
- Department of Advanced Clinical and Translational Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan.
| | - Hiroshi Shimagami
- Department of Respiratory Medicine and Clinical Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
- Department of Immunopathology, World Premier International Research Center Initiative (WPI), Immunology Frontier Research Center (IFReC), Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
- Department of Advanced Clinical and Translational Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Atsushi Kumanogoh
- Department of Respiratory Medicine and Clinical Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan.
- Department of Immunopathology, World Premier International Research Center Initiative (WPI), Immunology Frontier Research Center (IFReC), Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan.
- Integrated Frontier Research for Medical Science Division, Institute for Open and Transdisciplinary Research Initiatives (OTRI), Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan.
- Center for Infectious Diseases for Education and Research (CiDER), Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan.
- Center for Advanced Modalities and DDS (CAMaD), Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan.
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Fukasawa T, Yoshizaki-Ogawa A, Enomoto A, Yamashita T, Miyagawa K, Sato S, Yoshizaki A. Single cell analysis in systemic sclerosis - A systematic review. Immunol Med 2024:1-12. [PMID: 38818750 DOI: 10.1080/25785826.2024.2360690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
In recent years, rapid advances in research methods have made single cell analysis possible. Systemic sclerosis (SSc), a disease characterized by the triad of immune abnormalities, fibrosis, and vasculopathy, has also been the subject of various analyses. To summarize the results of single cell analysis in SSc accumulated to date and to deepen our understanding of SSc. Four databases were used to perform a database search on 23rd June 2023. Assessed Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation certainty of evidence were performed according to PRISMA guidelines. The analysis was completed on July 2023. 17 studies with 358 SSc patients were included. Three studies used PBMCs, six used skin, nine used lung with SSc-interstitial lung diseases (ILDs), and one used lung with SSc-pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). The cells studied included immune cells such as T cells, natural killer cells, monocytes, macrophages, and dendritic cells, as well as endothelial cells, fibroblasts, keratinocytes, alveolar type I cells, basal epithelial cells, smooth muscle cells, mesothelial cells, etc. This systematic review revealed the results of single cell analysis, suggesting that PBMCs, skin, SSc-ILD, and SSc-PAH show activation and dysfunction of cells associated with immune-abnormalities, fibrosis, and vasculopathy, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takemichi Fukasawa
- Department of Dermatology, Systemic sclerosis center, The University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Clinical Cannabinoid Research, The University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Asako Yoshizaki-Ogawa
- Department of Dermatology, Systemic sclerosis center, The University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Atsushi Enomoto
- Laboratory of Molecular Radiology, Center for Disease Biology and Integrative Medicine, The University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takashi Yamashita
- Department of Dermatology, Systemic sclerosis center, The University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kiyoshi Miyagawa
- Laboratory of Molecular Radiology, Center for Disease Biology and Integrative Medicine, The University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shinichi Sato
- Department of Dermatology, Systemic sclerosis center, The University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ayumi Yoshizaki
- Department of Dermatology, Systemic sclerosis center, The University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Clinical Cannabinoid Research, The University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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Tian N, Cheng H, Du Y, Wang X, Lei Y, Liu X, Chen M, Xu Z, Wang L, Yin H, Fu R, Li D, Zhou P, Lu L, Yin Z, Dai SM, Li B. Cannabinoid receptor 2 selective agonist alleviates systemic sclerosis by inhibiting Th2 differentiation through JAK/SOCS3 signaling. J Autoimmun 2024; 147:103233. [PMID: 38797049 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2024.103233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2024] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) poses a significant challenge in autoimmunology, characterized by the development of debilitating fibrosis of skin and internal organs. The pivotal role of dysregulated T cells, notably the skewed polarization toward Th2 cells, has been implicated in the vascular damage and progressive fibrosis observed in SSc. In this study, we explored the underlying mechanisms by which cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2) highly selective agonist HU-308 restores the imbalance of T cells to alleviate SSc. Using a bleomycin-induced SSc (BLM-SSc) mouse model, we demonstrated that HU-308 effectively attenuates skin and lung fibrosis by specifically activating CB2 on CD4+ T cells to inhibit the polarization of Th2 cells in BLM-SSc mice, which was validated by Cnr2-specific-deficient mice. Different from classical signaling downstream of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), HU-308 facilitates the expression of SOCS3 protein and subsequently impedes the IL2/STAT5 signaling pathway during Th2 differentiation. The deficiency of SOCS3 partially mitigated the impact of HU-308. Analysis of a cohort comprising 80 SSc patients and 82 healthy controls revealed an abnormal elevation in the Th2/Th1 ratio in SSc patients. The proportion of Th2 cells showed a significant positive correlation with mRSS score and positivity of anti-Scl-70. Administration of HU-308 to PBMCs and peripheral CD4+ T cells from SSc patients led to the upregulation of SOCS3, which effectively suppressed the aberrantly activated STAT5 signaling pathway and the proportion of CD4+IL4+ T cells. In conclusion, our findings unveil a novel mechanism by which the CB2 agonist HU-308 ameliorates fibrosis in SSc by targeting and reducing Th2 responses. These insights provide a foundation for future therapeutic approaches in SSc by modulating Th2 responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Tian
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; Center for Immune-Related Diseases at Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine of Ruijin Hospital, Department of Thoracic Surgery of Ruijin Hospital, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Hao Cheng
- Center for Immune-Related Diseases at Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine of Ruijin Hospital, Department of Thoracic Surgery of Ruijin Hospital, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; Department of Rheumatism and Immunology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Guangdong, China; Center for Cancer Immunology Research, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China.
| | - Yu Du
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Xiaoxia Wang
- Center for Immune-Related Diseases at Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine of Ruijin Hospital, Department of Thoracic Surgery of Ruijin Hospital, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; Songjiang Research Institute, Songjiang District Central Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Yi Lei
- Center for Immune-Related Diseases at Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine of Ruijin Hospital, Department of Thoracic Surgery of Ruijin Hospital, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Xinnan Liu
- Center for Immune-Related Diseases at Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine of Ruijin Hospital, Department of Thoracic Surgery of Ruijin Hospital, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Miao Chen
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Zhan Xu
- Center for Immune-Related Diseases at Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine of Ruijin Hospital, Department of Thoracic Surgery of Ruijin Hospital, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Lingbiao Wang
- Division of Rheumatology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Hanlin Yin
- Department of Rheumatology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Rong Fu
- Core Facility of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Dan Li
- Center for Immune-Related Diseases at Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine of Ruijin Hospital, Department of Thoracic Surgery of Ruijin Hospital, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Penghui Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in Southern China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Liangjing Lu
- Department of Rheumatology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Zhinan Yin
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai People's Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University, Jinan University, Zhuhai, China; State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Molecules and Druggability Assessment, The Biomedical Translational Research Institute, Health Science Center (School of Medicine), Jinan University, Guangzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Viral Pathogenesis & Infection Prevention and Control (Jinan University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Sheng-Ming Dai
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Bin Li
- Center for Immune-Related Diseases at Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine of Ruijin Hospital, Department of Thoracic Surgery of Ruijin Hospital, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; Department of Integrated TCM & Western Medicine, Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China; Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai, China; Department of Oncology, Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.
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Zhu P, Deng W. Single-Cell RNA-Sequencing Analyses Identify APLNR, INS-IGF2, RGCC Genes May Be Involved in the Pathogenesis of Systemic Sclerosis Skin. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol 2024; 17:1059-1069. [PMID: 38742168 PMCID: PMC11090198 DOI: 10.2147/ccid.s456593] [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: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Background Systemic sclerosis represents a persistent autoimmune disorder marked with fibrosis affecting both skin and other organs, which leads to a diminished quality of life and increased mortality. The affected skin provides a valuable opportunity to explore the pathogenesis of systemic sclerosis. Nevertheless, the roles of various cell populations within scleroderma remain intricate. Methods We conducted a comprehensive reanalysis of recently published single-cell RNA-sequencing data from skin tissue cells in scleroderma. Through the utilization of Seurat, irGSEA, AUCell packages, and WGCNA analysis, we aimed to unveil crucial genes associated with the disease's etiological factors. Our investigation involved the characterization of heterogeneous pathway activities in both healthy and SSc-affected skin. Furthermore, we employed immunofluorescence techniques to validate the expression patterns of hub genes and differentially expressed genes. Results The Endothelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition (EndMT) pathway was upregulated in SSc skin. Notably, the M4 module within Endothelial cell subpopulation 1 exhibited a strong association with EndMT. Furthermore, we identified three overexpressed genes (APLNR, INS-IGF2, RGCC) that demonstrated a significant correlation with EndMT. Importantly, their expression levels were markedly higher in skin of individuals with SSc when compared to healthy controls. Conclusion APLNR, INS-IGF2 and RGCC serve as potential key players in the pathogenesis of SSc skin through EndMT-dependent mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peiqiu Zhu
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Weiwei Deng
- Department of Dermatology, Dermatology Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
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Elahee M, Mueller AA, Wang R, Marks KE, Sasaki T, Cao Y, Fava A, Dellaripa PF, Boin F, Rao DA. A PD-1 highCD4 + T Cell Population With a Cytotoxic Phenotype is Associated With Interstitial Lung Disease in Systemic Sclerosis. ACR Open Rheumatol 2024. [PMID: 38698736 DOI: 10.1002/acr2.11671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE T cells contribute to tissue injury in systemic sclerosis (SSc), yet the specific T cell subsets expanded in patients with SSc remain incompletely defined. Here we evaluated specific phenotypes and functions of peripheral helper T (Tph) and follicular helper T (Tfh) cells, which have been implicated in autoantibody production, and assessed their associations with clinical features in a well-characterized cohort of patients with SSc. METHODS Mass cytometry of T cells from peripheral blood mononuclear cells of patients with SSc and controls were evaluated using t-distributed stochastic neighbor embedding visualization, biaxial gating, and marker expression levels. Findings were validated with flow cytometry and in vitro assays. RESULTS The frequencies of PD-1highCXCR5+ Tfh cells and PD-1highCXCR5- Tph cells were similar in patients with SSc and controls. t-distributed stochastic neighbor embedding visualization (tSNE) revealed distinct populations within the PD-1highCXCR5- cells distinguished by expression of HLA-DR and inducible costimulator (ICOS). Among PD-1highCXCR5- cells, only the HLA-DR+ICOS- cell population was expanded in patients with SSc. Cytometric and RNA sequencing analyses indicated that these cells expressed cytotoxic rather than B cell helper features. HLA-DR+ICOS- PD-1highCXCR5- cells were less potent in inducing B cell plasmablast differentiation and antibody production than comparator T helper cell populations. HLA-DR+ICOS-PD-1highCXCR5- cells were significantly associated with the presence and severity of interstitial lung disease among patients with SSc. CONCLUSION Among PD-1highCXCR5- T cells, a subset of HLA-DR+ICOS- cells with cytotoxic features is specifically expanded in patients with SSc and is significantly associated with interstitial lung disease severity. This potential cytotoxicity appearing in the CD4 T cell population can be evaluated as a prognostic disease biomarker in patients with SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehreen Elahee
- Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Alisa A Mueller
- Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Runci Wang
- Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Kathryne E Marks
- Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Takanori Sasaki
- Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Ye Cao
- Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Andrea Fava
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Paul F Dellaripa
- Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | - Deepak A Rao
- Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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6
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Wu J, Zhang X, Lin S, Wei Q, Lin Z, Jin O, Gu J. Alterations in peripheral T- and B-cell subsets in patients with systemic sclerosis. Int J Rheum Dis 2024; 27:e15145. [PMID: 38661314 DOI: 10.1111/1756-185x.15145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2024] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine the alteration of peripheral T and B cell subsets in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) and to evaluate their correlation with the progression of SSc. METHODS We recruited 47 SSc patients and 45 healthy controls (HCs) in this study. Demographic and clinical data were then collected. Flow cytometry was used to detect the proportions of 44 different T and B cell subsets in circulating blood. RESULTS The proportion of total B cells (p = .043) decreased in SSc patients, together with similar frequencies of total T cells, CD4+ T cells, and CD8+ T cells in both groups. Several subsets of T and B cells differed significantly between these two groups. Follicular helper T cells-1 (Tfh1) (p < .001), helper T cells-1 (Th1) (p = .001), regulatory T cells (Treg) (p = .004), effector memory CD8+ T cells (p = .041), and cytotoxic T cells-17 (Tc17) (p = .01) were decreased in SSc patients. Follicular helper T cells-2 (Tfh2) (p = .001) and, helper T cells-2 (Th2) (p = .001) levels increased in the SSc group. Regulatory B cells (Breg) (p = .015) were lower in the SSc group, together with marginal zone (MZ) B cells (p < .001), memory B cells (p = .001), and non-switched B cells (p = .005). The modified Rodnan skin score (mRSS) correlated with helper T cells-17 (Th17) (r = -.410, p = .004), Tfh1 (r = -.321, p = .028), peripheral helper T cells (Tph) (r = -.364, p = .012) and plasma cells (r = -.312, p = .033). CONCLUSIONS The alterations in T and B cells implied immune dysfunction, which may play an essential role in systemic sclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jialing Wu
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xi Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Shen Lin
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Qiujing Wei
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhiming Lin
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Ou Jin
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jieruo Gu
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
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Streutker EM, Devamoglu U, Vonk MC, Verdurmen WPR, Le Gac S. Fibrosis-on-Chip: A Guide to Recapitulate the Essential Features of Fibrotic Disease. Adv Healthc Mater 2024:e2303991. [PMID: 38536053 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202303991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024]
Abstract
Fibrosis, which is primarily marked by excessive extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition, is a pathophysiological process associated with many disorders, which ultimately leads to organ dysfunction and poor patient outcomes. Despite the high prevalence of fibrosis, currently there exist few therapeutic options, and importantly, there is a paucity of in vitro models to accurately study fibrosis. This review discusses the multifaceted nature of fibrosis from the viewpoint of developing organ-on-chip (OoC) disease models, focusing on five key features: the ECM component, inflammation, mechanical cues, hypoxia, and vascularization. The potential of OoC technology is explored for better modeling these features in the context of studying fibrotic diseases and the interplay between various key features is emphasized. This paper reviews how organ-specific fibrotic diseases are modeled in OoC platforms, which elements are included in these existing models, and the avenues for novel research directions are highlighted. Finally, this review concludes with a perspective on how to address the current gap with respect to the inclusion of multiple features to yield more sophisticated and relevant models of fibrotic diseases in an OoC format.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma M Streutker
- Department of Medical BioSciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein 28, Nijmegen, 6525 GA, The Netherlands
| | - Utku Devamoglu
- Applied Microfluidics for BioEngineering Research, MESA+ Institute for Nanotechnoloygy and TechMed Centre, Organ-on-Chip Centre, University of Twente, Drienerlolaan 5, Enschede, 7522 NB, The Netherlands
| | - Madelon C Vonk
- Department of Rheumatology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, PO Box 9101, Nijmegen, 6500 HB, The Netherlands
| | - Wouter P R Verdurmen
- Department of Medical BioSciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein 28, Nijmegen, 6525 GA, The Netherlands
| | - Séverine Le Gac
- Applied Microfluidics for BioEngineering Research, MESA+ Institute for Nanotechnoloygy and TechMed Centre, Organ-on-Chip Centre, University of Twente, Drienerlolaan 5, Enschede, 7522 NB, The Netherlands
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8
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Zhao L, Chen J, Bai B, Song G, Zhang J, Yu H, Huang S, Wang Z, Lu G. Topical drug delivery strategies for enhancing drug effectiveness by skin barriers, drug delivery systems and individualized dosing. Front Pharmacol 2024; 14:1333986. [PMID: 38293666 PMCID: PMC10825035 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1333986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Topical drug delivery is widely used in various diseases because of the advantages of not passing through the gastrointestinal tract, avoiding gastrointestinal irritation and hepatic first-pass effect, and reaching the lesion directly to reduce unnecessary adverse reactions. The skin helps the organism to defend itself against a huge majority of external aggressions and is one of the most important lines of defense of the body. However, the skin's strong barrier ability is also a huge obstacle to the effectiveness of topical medications. Allowing the bioactive, composition in a drug to pass through the stratum corneum barrier as needed to reach the target site is the most essential need for the bioactive, composition to exert its therapeutic effect. The state of the skin barrier, the choice of delivery system for the bioactive, composition, and individualized disease detection and dosing planning influence the effectiveness of topical medications. Nowadays, enhancing transdermal absorption of topically applied drugs is the hottest research area. However, enhancing transdermal absorption of drugs is not the first choice to improve the effectiveness of all drugs. Excessive transdermal absorption enhances topical drug accumulation at non-target sites and the occurrence of adverse reactions. This paper introduces topical drug delivery strategies to improve drug effectiveness from three perspectives: skin barrier, drug delivery system and individualized drug delivery, describes the current status and shortcomings of topical drug research, and provides new directions and ideas for topical drug research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
- School of Ethnic Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Jiamei Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Bai Bai
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
- School of Ethnic Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Guili Song
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
- School of Ethnic Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Jingwen Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
- School of Ethnic Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Han Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Shiwei Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Zhang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
- School of Ethnic Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Guanghua Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
- School of Ethnic Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
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9
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Ma F, Tsou PS, Gharaee-Kermani M, Plazyo O, Xing X, Kirma J, Wasikowski R, Hile GA, Harms PW, Jiang Y, Xing E, Nakamura M, Ochocki D, Brodie WD, Pillai S, Maverakis E, Pellegrini M, Modlin RL, Varga J, Tsoi LC, Lafyatis R, Kahlenberg JM, Billi AC, Khanna D, Gudjonsson JE. Systems-based identification of the Hippo pathway for promoting fibrotic mesenchymal differentiation in systemic sclerosis. Nat Commun 2024; 15:210. [PMID: 38172207 PMCID: PMC10764940 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-44645-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a devastating autoimmune disease characterized by excessive production and accumulation of extracellular matrix, leading to fibrosis of skin and other internal organs. However, the main cellular participants in SSc skin fibrosis remain incompletely understood. Here using differentiation trajectories at a single cell level, we demonstrate a dual source of extracellular matrix deposition in SSc skin from both myofibroblasts and endothelial-to-mesenchymal-transitioning cells (EndoMT). We further define a central role of Hippo pathway effectors in differentiation and homeostasis of myofibroblast and EndoMT, respectively, and show that myofibroblasts and EndoMTs function as central communication hubs that drive key pro-fibrotic signaling pathways in SSc. Together, our data help characterize myofibroblast differentiation and EndoMT phenotypes in SSc skin, and hint that modulation of the Hippo pathway may contribute in reversing the pro-fibrotic phenotypes in myofibroblasts and EndoMTs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feiyang Ma
- Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Division of Rheumatology, Dept of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Pei-Suen Tsou
- Division of Rheumatology, Dept of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- University of Michigan Scleroderma Program, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Mehrnaz Gharaee-Kermani
- Division of Rheumatology, Dept of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Olesya Plazyo
- Division of Rheumatology, Dept of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Xianying Xing
- Division of Rheumatology, Dept of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Joseph Kirma
- Division of Rheumatology, Dept of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Rachael Wasikowski
- Division of Rheumatology, Dept of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Grace A Hile
- Division of Rheumatology, Dept of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Paul W Harms
- Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Yanyun Jiang
- Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Enze Xing
- Division of Rheumatology, Dept of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Mio Nakamura
- Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Danielle Ochocki
- Division of Rheumatology, Dept of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- University of Michigan Scleroderma Program, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - William D Brodie
- Division of Rheumatology, Dept of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Shiv Pillai
- Ragon Institute, Massachusetts General Hospital, Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Emanual Maverakis
- Department of Dermatology, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Matteo Pellegrini
- Dept of Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Robert L Modlin
- Dept of Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - John Varga
- Division of Rheumatology, Dept of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- University of Michigan Scleroderma Program, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Lam C Tsoi
- Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Robert Lafyatis
- Division of Rheumatology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - J Michelle Kahlenberg
- Division of Rheumatology, Dept of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Allison C Billi
- Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Dinesh Khanna
- Division of Rheumatology, Dept of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
- University of Michigan Scleroderma Program, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
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10
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Villanueva-Martin G, Acosta-Herrera M, Carmona EG, Kerick M, Ortego-Centeno N, Callejas-Rubio JL, Mages N, Klages S, Börno S, Timmermann B, Bossini-Castillo L, Martin J. Non-classical circulating monocytes expressing high levels of microsomal prostaglandin E2 synthase-1 tag an aberrant IFN-response in systemic sclerosis. J Autoimmun 2023; 140:103097. [PMID: 37633117 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2023.103097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/28/2023]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a complex disease that affects the connective tissue, causing fibrosis. SSc patients show altered immune cell composition and activation in the peripheral blood (PB). PB monocytes (Mos) are recruited into tissues where they differentiate into macrophages, which are directly involved in fibrosis. To understand the role of CD14+ PB Mos in SSc, a single-cell transcriptome analysis (scRNA-seq) was conducted on 8 SSc patients and 8 controls. Using unsupervised clustering methods, CD14+ cells were assigned to 11 clusters, which added granularity to the known monocyte subsets: classical (cMos), intermediate (iMos) and non-classical Mos (ncMos) or type 2 dendritic cells. NcMos were significantly overrepresented in SSc patients and showed an active IFN-signature and increased expression levels of PTGES, in addition to monocyte motility and adhesion markers. We identified a SSc-related cluster of IRF7+ STAT1+ iMos with an aberrant IFN-response. Finally, a depletion of M2 polarised cMos in SSc was observed. Our results highlighted the potential of PB Mos as biomarkers for SSc and provided new possibilities for putative drug targets for modulating the innate immune response in SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gonzalo Villanueva-Martin
- Department of Cell Biology and Immunology, Institute of Parasitology and Biomedicine López-Neyra, CSIC, Granada, Spain
| | - Marialbert Acosta-Herrera
- Department of Cell Biology and Immunology, Institute of Parasitology and Biomedicine López-Neyra, CSIC, Granada, Spain; Systemic Autoimmune Disease Unit, Hospital Clínico San Cecilio, Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria Ibs. GRANADA, Granada, Spain
| | - Elio G Carmona
- Department of Cell Biology and Immunology, Institute of Parasitology and Biomedicine López-Neyra, CSIC, Granada, Spain; Systemic Autoimmune Disease Unit, Hospital Clínico San Cecilio, Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria Ibs. GRANADA, Granada, Spain
| | - Martin Kerick
- Department of Cell Biology and Immunology, Institute of Parasitology and Biomedicine López-Neyra, CSIC, Granada, Spain
| | - Norberto Ortego-Centeno
- Systemic Autoimmune Disease Unit, Hospital Clínico San Cecilio, Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria Ibs. GRANADA, Granada, Spain; Department of Medicine, University of Granada, Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria Ibs. GRANADA, Granada, Spain
| | - Jose Luis Callejas-Rubio
- Systemic Autoimmune Disease Unit, Hospital Clínico San Cecilio, Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria Ibs. GRANADA, Granada, Spain
| | - Norbert Mages
- Sequencing Core Facility, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, 14195, Berlin, Germany
| | - Sven Klages
- Sequencing Core Facility, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, 14195, Berlin, Germany
| | - Stefan Börno
- Sequencing Core Facility, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, 14195, Berlin, Germany
| | - Bernd Timmermann
- Sequencing Core Facility, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, 14195, Berlin, Germany
| | - Lara Bossini-Castillo
- Department of Genetics and Biotechnology Institute, Biomedical Research Centre (CIBM), University of Granada, 18100, Granada, Spain; Advanced Therapies and Biomedical Technologies (TEC-14), Biosanitary Research Institute Ibs. GRANADA, 18016, Granada, Spain.
| | - Javier Martin
- Department of Cell Biology and Immunology, Institute of Parasitology and Biomedicine López-Neyra, CSIC, Granada, Spain.
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11
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Sheng XR, Gao X, Schiffman C, Jiang J, Ramalingam TR, Lin CJF, Khanna D, Neighbors M. Biomarkers of fibrosis, inflammation, and extracellular matrix in the phase 3 trial of tocilizumab in systemic sclerosis. Clin Immunol 2023; 254:109695. [PMID: 37479123 DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2023.109695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2023]
Abstract
Drug development for systemic sclerosis (SSc) benefits from understanding the relationship between disease and circulating biomarkers to enable activities such as patient stratification and evaluation of therapeutic response. We measured biomarkers in serum from SSc patients from a phase 3 trial of tocilizumab (focuSSced) and compared baseline levels with healthy controls (HCs). Several baseline biomarkers appeared elevated in SSc patients compared to HCs, suggesting activation of epithelial damage, inflammation, fibrosis, and extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling. Baseline correlations among both periostin/COMP and ECM biomarker subsets implicated their participation in fibroblast activation. Tocilizumab treatment modulated serum biomarkers of macrophage activation, inflammation, and ECM turnover, including collagen formation and degradation neoepitopes. Baseline CRP, periostin, and SP-D showed prognostic trends for worsening lung function, and IL-6, COMP, periostin, and Pro-C3 showed prognostic trends for worsening skin thickness. These prognostic results warrant confirmation in additional patient cohorts to verify their utility.
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Affiliation(s)
- X Rebecca Sheng
- Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA, United States of America.
| | - Xia Gao
- Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA, United States of America
| | | | - Jenny Jiang
- Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA, United States of America
| | | | - Celia J F Lin
- Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA, United States of America
| | - Dinesh Khanna
- University of Michigan Scleroderma Program, Division of Rheumatology/Department of Internal Medicine, Ann Arbor, MI, United States of America
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12
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Werner G, Sanyal A, Mirizio E, Hutchins T, Tabib T, Lafyatis R, Jacobe H, Torok KS. Single-Cell Transcriptome Analysis Identifies Subclusters with Inflammatory Fibroblast Responses in Localized Scleroderma. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:9796. [PMID: 37372943 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24129796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2023] [Revised: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Localized scleroderma (LS) is an autoimmune disease with both inflammatory and fibrotic components causing an abnormal deposition of collagen in the skin and underlying tissue, often leading to disfigurement and disability. Much of its pathophysiology is extrapolated from systemic sclerosis (SSc) since the histopathology findings in the skin are nearly identical. However, LS is critically understudied. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA seq) technology provides a novel way to obtain detailed information at the individual cellular level, overcoming this barrier. Here, we analyzed the affected skin of 14 patients with LS (pediatric and adult) and 14 healthy controls. Fibroblast populations were the focus, since they are the main drivers of fibrosis in SSc. We identified 12 fibroblast subclusters in LS, which overall had an inflammatory gene expression (IFN and HLA-associated genes). A myofibroblast-like cluster (SFRP4/PRSS23) was more prevalent in LS subjects and shared many upregulated genes expressed in SSc-associated myofibroblasts, though it also had strong expression of CXCL9/10/11, known CXCR3 ligands. A CXCL2/IRF1 cluster identified was unique to LS, with a robust inflammatory gene signature, including IL-6, and according to cell communication analysis are influenced by macrophages. In summary, potential disease-propagating fibroblasts and associated gene signatures were identified in LS skin via scRNA seq.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giffin Werner
- Department of Pediatrics (Rheumatology), University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA
| | - Anwesha Sanyal
- Department of Pediatrics (Rheumatology), University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA
| | - Emily Mirizio
- Department of Pediatrics (Rheumatology), University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA
| | - Theresa Hutchins
- Department of Pediatrics (Rheumatology), University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA
| | - Tracy Tabib
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - Robert Lafyatis
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - Heidi Jacobe
- Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Southwestern, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Kathryn S Torok
- Department of Pediatrics (Rheumatology), University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA
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13
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Spinella A, Lo Tartaro D, Gibellini L, de Pinto M, Pinto V, Bonetti E, Lolli F, Lattanzi M, Lumetti F, Amati G, De Santis G, Cossarizza A, Salvarani C, Giuggioli D. Altered pathways of keratinization, extracellular matrix generation, angiogenesis, and stromal stem cells proliferation in patients with systemic sclerosis. JOURNAL OF SCLERODERMA AND RELATED DISORDERS 2023; 8:151-166. [PMID: 37287944 PMCID: PMC10242696 DOI: 10.1177/23971983221130145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
Objective Systemic sclerosis is characterized by endothelial dysfunction, autoimmunity abnormalities, and fibrosis of the skin and internal organs. The pathogenetic mechanisms underlying systemic sclerosis vasculopathy are still not clarified. A complex cellular and extracellular network of interactions has been studied, but it is currently unclear what drives the activation of fibroblasts/myofibroblasts and the extracellular matrix deposition. Methods Using RNA sequencing, the aim of the work was to identify potential functional pathways implied in systemic sclerosis pathogenesis and markers of endothelial dysfunction and fibrosis in systemic sclerosis patients. RNA-sequencing analysis was performed on RNA obtained from biopsies from three systemic sclerosis patients and three healthy controls enrolled in our University Hospital. RNA was used to generate sequencing libraries that were sequenced according to proper transcriptomic analyses. Subsequently, we performed gene set enrichment analysis of differentially expressed genes on the entire list of genes that compose the RNA-sequencing expression matrix. Results Gene set enrichment analysis revealed that healthy controls were characterized by gene signatures related to stromal stem cells proliferation, cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction, macrophage-enriched metabolic network, whereas systemic sclerosis tissues were enriched in signatures associated with keratinization, cornification, retinoblastoma 1 and tumor suppressor 53 signaling. Conclusion According to our data, RNA-sequencing and pathway analysis revealed that systemic sclerosis subjects display a discrete pattern of gene expression associated with keratinization, extracellular matrix generation, and negative regulation of angiogenesis and stromal stem cells proliferation. Further analysis on larger numbers of patients is needed; however, our findings provide an interesting framework for the development of biomarkers useful to explore potential future therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amelia Spinella
- Scleroderma Unit and Rheumatology Unit, Medical School, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, University Hospital of Modena Policlinico of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Domenico Lo Tartaro
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences of Children and Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Lara Gibellini
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences of Children and Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Marco de Pinto
- Scleroderma Unit and Rheumatology Unit, Medical School, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, University Hospital of Modena Policlinico of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Valentina Pinto
- Division of Plastic Surgery, University Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia Policlinico of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Elisa Bonetti
- Division of Plastic Surgery, University Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia Policlinico of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Francesca Lolli
- Division of Plastic Surgery, University Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia Policlinico of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Melba Lattanzi
- Division of Plastic Surgery, University Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia Policlinico of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Federica Lumetti
- Scleroderma Unit and Rheumatology Unit, Medical School, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, University Hospital of Modena Policlinico of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Gabriele Amati
- Scleroderma Unit and Rheumatology Unit, Medical School, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, University Hospital of Modena Policlinico of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Giorgio De Santis
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences of Children and Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Division of Plastic Surgery, University Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia Policlinico of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Andrea Cossarizza
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences of Children and Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Carlo Salvarani
- Scleroderma Unit and Rheumatology Unit, Medical School, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, University Hospital of Modena Policlinico of Modena, Modena, Italy
- Department of Surgery, Medicine, Dentistry and Morphological Sciences with Transplant Surgery, Oncology and Regenerative Medicine Relevance, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Rheumatology Unit, AUSL-IRCCS of Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Dilia Giuggioli
- Scleroderma Unit and Rheumatology Unit, Medical School, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, University Hospital of Modena Policlinico of Modena, Modena, Italy
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences of Children and Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
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14
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Guo M, Liu D, Jiang Y, Chen W, Zhao L, Bao D, Li Y, Distler JHW, Zhu H. Serum metabolomic profiling reveals potential biomarkers in systemic sclerosis. Metabolism 2023; 144:155587. [PMID: 37156409 DOI: 10.1016/j.metabol.2023.155587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a chronic and systemic autoimmune disease marked by the skin and visceral fibrosis. Metabolic alterations have been found in SSc patients; however, serum metabolomic profiling has not been thoroughly conducted. Our study aimed to identify alterations in the metabolic profile in both SSc patients before and during treatment, as well as in mouse models of fibrosis. Furthermore, the associations between metabolites and clinical parameters and disease progression were explored. METHODS High-performance liquid chromatography quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (HPLC-Q-TOF-MS)/MS was performed in the serum of 326 human samples and 33 mouse samples. Human samples were collected from 142 healthy controls (HC), 127 newly diagnosed SSc patients without treatment (SSc baseline), and 57 treated SSc patients (SSc treatment). Mouse serum samples were collected from 11 control mice (NaCl), 11 mice with bleomycin (BLM)-induced fibrosis and 11 mice with hypochlorous acid (HOCl)-induced fibrosis. Both univariate analysis and multivariate analysis (orthogonal partial least-squares discriminate analysis (OPLS-DA)) were conducted to unravel differently expressed metabolites. KEGG pathway enrichment analysis was performed to characterize the dysregulated metabolic pathways in SSc. Associations between metabolites and clinical parameters of SSc patients were identified by Pearson's or Spearman's correlation analysis. Machine learning (ML) algorithms were applied to identify the important metabolites that have the potential to predict the progression of skin fibrosis. RESULTS The newly diagnosed SSc patients without treatment showed a unique serum metabolic profile compared to HC. Treatment partially corrected the metabolic changes in SSc. Some metabolites (phloretin 2'-O-glucuronide, retinoyl b-glucuronide, all-trans-retinoic acid, and betaine) and metabolic pathways (starch and sucrose metabolism, proline metabolism, androgen and estrogen metabolism, and tryptophan metabolism) were dysregulated in new-onset SSc, but restored upon treatment. Some metabolic changes were associated with treatment response in SSc patients. Metabolic changes observed in SSc patients were mimicked in murine models of SSc, indicating that they may reflect general metabolic changes associated with fibrotic tissue remodeling. Several metabolic changes were associated with SSc clinical parameters. The levels of allysine and all-trans-retinoic acid were negatively correlated, while D-glucuronic acid and hexanoyl carnitine were positively correlated with modified Rodnan skin score (mRSS). In addition, a panel of metabolites including proline betaine, phloretin 2'-O-glucuronide, gamma-linolenic acid and L-cystathionine were associated with the presence of interstitial lung disease (ILD) in SSc. Specific metabolites identified by ML algorithms, such as medicagenic acid 3-O-b-D-glucuronide, 4'-O-methyl-(-)-epicatechin-3'-O-beta-glucuronide, valproic acid glucuronide, have the potential to predict the progression of skin fibrosis. CONCLUSIONS Serum of SSc patients demonstrates profound metabolic changes. Treatment partially restored the metabolic changes in SSc. Moreover, certain metabolic changes were associated with clinical manifestations such as skin fibrosis and ILD, and could predict the progression of skin fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muyao Guo
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; Provincial Clinical Research Center for Rheumatic and Immunologic Diseases, Xiangya Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, China; National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Di Liu
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yu Jiang
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Emergency and Critical Care Metabonomics, Institute of Emergency Medicine, Hunan Provincial People's Hospital/The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Weilin Chen
- Department of Nephrology and Rheumatology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Lijuan Zhao
- Department of Nephrology and Rheumatology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Ding Bao
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; Provincial Clinical Research Center for Rheumatic and Immunologic Diseases, Xiangya Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, China; National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yisha Li
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; Provincial Clinical Research Center for Rheumatic and Immunologic Diseases, Xiangya Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, China; National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Jörg H W Distler
- Clinic for Rheumatology, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty of Heinrich Heine University, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; Hiller Research Center, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty of Heinrich Heine University, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Honglin Zhu
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; Provincial Clinical Research Center for Rheumatic and Immunologic Diseases, Xiangya Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, China; National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
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15
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Wang S, Sun ST, Zhang XY, Ding HR, Yuan Y, He JJ, Wang MS, Yang B, Li YB. The Evolution of Single-Cell RNA Sequencing Technology and Application: Progress and Perspectives. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032943. [PMID: 36769267 PMCID: PMC9918030 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2022] [Revised: 01/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
As an emerging sequencing technology, single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-Seq) has become a powerful tool for describing cell subpopulation classification and cell heterogeneity by achieving high-throughput and multidimensional analysis of individual cells and circumventing the shortcomings of traditional sequencing for detecting the average transcript level of cell populations. It has been applied to life science and medicine research fields such as tracking dynamic cell differentiation, revealing sensitive effector cells, and key molecular events of diseases. This review focuses on the recent technological innovations in scRNA-Seq, highlighting the latest research results with scRNA-Seq as the core technology in frontier research areas such as embryology, histology, oncology, and immunology. In addition, this review outlines the prospects for its innovative application in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) research and discusses the key issues currently being addressed by scRNA-Seq and its great potential for exploring disease diagnostic targets and uncovering drug therapeutic targets in combination with multiomics technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Bin Yang
- Correspondence: (B.Y.); (Y.-B.L.)
| | - Yu-Bo Li
- Correspondence: (B.Y.); (Y.-B.L.)
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16
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Ding L, Li X, Zhu H, Luo H. Single-Cell Sequencing in Rheumatic Diseases: New Insights from the Perspective of the Cell Type. Aging Dis 2022; 13:1633-1651. [PMID: 36465169 PMCID: PMC9662270 DOI: 10.14336/ad.2022.0323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Rheumatic diseases are a group of highly heterogeneous autoimmune and inflammatory disorders involving multiple systems. Dysfunction of immune and non-immune cells participates in the complex pathogenesis of rheumatic diseases. Therefore, studies on the abnormal activation of cell subtypes provided a specific basis for understanding the pathogenesis of rheumatic diseases, which promoted the accuracy of disease diagnosis and the effectiveness of various treatments. However, there was still a far way to achieve individualized precision medicine as the result of heterogeneity among cell subtypes. To obtain the biological information of cell subtypes, single-cell sequencing, a cutting-edge technology, is used for analyzing their genomes, transcriptomes, epigenetics, and proteomics. Novel results identified multiple cell subtypes in tissues of patients with rheumatic diseases by single-cell sequencing. Consequently, we provide an overview of recent applications of single-cell sequencing in rheumatic disease and cross-tissue to understand the cell subtypes and functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liqing Ding
- The Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
| | - Xiaojing Li
- The Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
| | - Honglin Zhu
- The Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
- Provincial Clinical Research Center for Rheumatic and Immunologic Diseases, Xiangya Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, China.
| | - Hui Luo
- The Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
- Provincial Clinical Research Center for Rheumatic and Immunologic Diseases, Xiangya Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, China.
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17
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Zeng L, Yang K, Zhang T, Zhu X, Hao W, Chen H, Ge J. Research progress of single-cell transcriptome sequencing in autoimmune diseases and autoinflammatory disease: A review. J Autoimmun 2022; 133:102919. [PMID: 36242821 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2022.102919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/07/2022]
Abstract
Autoimmunity refers to the phenomenon that the body's immune system produces antibodies or sensitized lymphocytes to its own tissues to cause an immune response. Immune disorders caused by autoimmunity can mediate autoimmune diseases. Autoimmune diseases have complicated pathogenesis due to the many types of cells involved, and the mechanism is still unclear. The emergence of single-cell research technology can solve the problem that ordinary transcriptome technology cannot be accurate to cell type. It provides unbiased results through independent analysis of cells in tissues and provides more mRNA information for identifying cell subpopulations, which provides a novel approach to study disruption of immune tolerance and disturbance of pro-inflammatory pathways on a cellular basis. It may fundamentally change the understanding of molecular pathways in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases and develop targeted drugs. Single-cell transcriptome sequencing (scRNA-seq) has been widely applied in autoimmune diseases, which provides a powerful tool for demonstrating the cellular heterogeneity of tissues involved in various immune inflammations, identifying pathogenic cell populations, and revealing the mechanism of disease occurrence and development. This review describes the principles of scRNA-seq, introduces common sequencing platforms and practical procedures, and focuses on the progress of scRNA-seq in 41 autoimmune diseases, which include 9 systemic autoimmune diseases and autoinflammatory diseases (rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, etc.) and 32 organ-specific autoimmune diseases (5 Skin diseases, 3 Nervous system diseases, 4 Eye diseases, 2 Respiratory system diseases, 2 Circulatory system diseases, 6 Liver, Gallbladder and Pancreas diseases, 2 Gastrointestinal system diseases, 3 Muscle, Bones and joint diseases, 3 Urinary system diseases, 2 Reproductive system diseases). This review also prospects the molecular mechanism targets of autoimmune diseases from the multi-molecular level and multi-dimensional analysis combined with single-cell multi-omics sequencing technology (such as scRNA-seq, Single cell ATAC-seq and single cell immune group library sequencing), which provides a reference for further exploring the pathogenesis and marker screening of autoimmune diseases and autoimmune inflammatory diseases in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liuting Zeng
- Department of Rheumatology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science & Peking Union Medical College, National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Beijing, China.
| | - Kailin Yang
- Key Laboratory of Hunan Province for Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine on Prevention and Treatment of Cardio-Cerebral Diseases, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China.
| | - Tianqing Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Hunan Province for Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine on Prevention and Treatment of Cardio-Cerebral Diseases, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Xiaofei Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Hunan Province for Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine on Prevention and Treatment of Cardio-Cerebral Diseases, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China.
| | - Wensa Hao
- Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Hua Chen
- Department of Rheumatology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science & Peking Union Medical College, National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Beijing, China.
| | - Jinwen Ge
- Key Laboratory of Hunan Province for Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine on Prevention and Treatment of Cardio-Cerebral Diseases, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China; Hunan Academy of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China.
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18
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Xia D, Wang Y, Xiao Y, Li W. Applications of single-cell RNA sequencing in atopic dermatitis and psoriasis. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1038744. [PMID: 36505405 PMCID: PMC9732227 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1038744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) is a novel technology that characterizes molecular heterogeneity at the single-cell level. With the development of more automated, sensitive, and cost-effective single-cell isolation methods, the sensitivity and efficiency of scRNA-seq have improved. Technological advances in single-cell analysis provide a deeper understanding of the biological diversity of cells present in tissues, including inflamed skin. New subsets of cells have been discovered among common inflammatory skin diseases, such as atopic dermatitis (AD) and psoriasis. ScRNA-seq technology has also been used to analyze immune cell distribution and cell-cell communication, shedding new light on the complex interplay of components involved in disease responses. Moreover, scRNA-seq may be a promising tool in precision medicine because of its ability to define cell subsets with potential treatment targets and to characterize cell-specific responses to drugs or other stimuli. In this review, we briefly summarize the progress in the development of scRNA-seq technologies and discuss the latest scRNA-seq-related findings and future trends in AD and psoriasis. We also discuss the limitations and technical problems associated with current scRNA-seq technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dengmei Xia
- Department of Dermatology, Rare Diseases Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China,Department of Dermatology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China,Institutes for Systems Genetics, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yiyi Wang
- Department of Dermatology, Rare Diseases Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China,Institutes for Systems Genetics, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yue Xiao
- Department of Dermatology, Rare Diseases Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China,Institutes for Systems Genetics, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Dermatology, Rare Diseases Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China,Institutes for Systems Genetics, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China,*Correspondence: Wei Li,
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19
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Fang D, Chen B, Lescoat A, Khanna D, Mu R. Immune cell dysregulation as a mediator of fibrosis in systemic sclerosis. Nat Rev Rheumatol 2022; 18:683-693. [DOI: 10.1038/s41584-022-00864-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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20
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The Role of T Cells in Systemic Sclerosis: An Update. IMMUNO 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/immuno2030034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a chronic disease characterized by microvasculopathy, autoantibodies (autoAbs), and fibrosis. The pathogenesis of the disease is incompletely understood. Microvasculopathy and autoAbs appear very early in the disease process. AutoAbs, such as those directed against DNA topoisomerase I (Topo I), are disease specific and associated with disease manifestations, and indicate activation of the adaptive immune system. B cells are involved in fibrosis in SSc. T cells are also involved in disease pathogenesis. T cells show signs of antigen-induced activation; T cells of TH2 type are increased and produce profibrotic cytokines interleukin (IL)-4, IL-13, and IL-31; CD4+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes are increased in skin lesions, and cause fibrosis and endothelial cell apoptosis; circulating T follicular helper (TFH) cells are increased in SSc produce IL-21 and promote plasmablast antibody production. On the other hand, regulatory T cells are impaired in SSc. These findings provide strong circumstantial evidence for T cell implication in SSc pathogenesis and encourage new T cell-directed therapeutic strategies for the disease.
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21
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Recent advances in elucidating the genetic basis of systemic sclerosis. Curr Opin Rheumatol 2022; 34:295-301. [PMID: 35979692 DOI: 10.1097/bor.0000000000000897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a complex autoimmune disorder that affects the connective tissue and causes severe vascular damage and fibrosis of the skin and internal organs. There are recent advances in the field that apply novel methods to high throughput genotype information of thousands of patients with SSc and provide promising results towards the use of genomic data to help SSc diagnosis and clinical care. RECENT FINDINGS This review addresses the development of the first SSc genomic risk score, which can contribute to differentiating SSc patients from healthy controls and other immune-mediated diseases. Moreover, we explore the implementation of data mining strategies on the results of genome-wide association studies to highlight subtype-specific HLA class II associations and a strong association of the HLA class I locus with SSc for the first time. Finally, the combination of genomic data with transcriptomics informed drug repurposing and genetic association studies in well characterized SSc patient cohorts identified markers of severe complications of the disease. SUMMARY Early diagnosis and clinical management of SSc and SSc-related complications are still challenging for rheumatologists. The development of predictive models and tools using genotype data may help to finally deliver personalized clinical care and treatment for patients with SSc in the near future.
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22
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Single-cell sequencing reveals the antifibrotic effects of YAP/TAZ in systemic sclerosis. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2022; 149:106257. [PMID: 35772663 DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2022.106257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2022] [Revised: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a heterogeneous disease with skin fibrosis. Yes-associated protein (YAP)/transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ) is associated with fibrotic response. This work attempted to determine the precise mechanism of YAP/TAZ in SSc. Single-cell sequencing (scRNA-seq) was used to analyse the differential gene expression between SSc patients and healthy volunteers, showing that the YAP/TAZ signalling pathway was enriched in the fibroblasts of SSc patients. Subsequently, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and immunohistochemical analyses were conducted to examine the levels of YAP and TAZ in mild and severe SSc patients. YAP and TAZ were highly expressed in the serum and skin tissues of mild and severe SSc patients, especially severe SSc patients. Additionally, an SSc mouse model was induced by bleomycin, and the impacts of YAP/TAZ knockdown on the pathological changes in skin and lung tissues were detected by haematoxylin and eosin staining and Masson staining. Knockdown of YAP and TAZ inhibited α-SMA mRNA and protein expression in skin and lung tissues of SSc mice. Inhibition of YAP and TAZ reduced skin inflammation and thickness and repressed lung inflammation and fibrosis in SSc mice. Importantly, knockdown of YAP and TAZ synergistically inhibited inflammation and fibrosis in skin and lung tissues in SSc mice. In conclusion, this work demonstrated that knockdown of YAP and TAZ exerted a synergistic effect on alleviating SSc in mice. Thus, this work suggests that YAP/TAZ is a potential target for SSc treatment.
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23
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Melissaropoulos K, Iliopoulos G, Sakkas LI, Daoussis D. Pathogenetic Aspects of Systemic Sclerosis: A View Through the Prism of B Cells. Front Immunol 2022; 13:925741. [PMID: 35812378 PMCID: PMC9259786 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.925741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare fibrotic rheumatic disease, associated with psychological distress and increased morbidity and mortality due to skin involvement and internal organ damage. The current understanding of the complex pathogenesis is yet incomplete and disease therapeutic algorithms are far from optimal. Immunologic aberrations are considered key factors for the disease, along with vascular involvement and excess fibrosis. Adaptive immunity and its specialized responses are an attractive research target and both T and B cells have been extensively studied in recent years. In the present review, the focus is placed on B cells in SSc. B cell homeostasis is deranged and B cell subsets exhibit an activated phenotype and abnormal receptor signaling. Autoantibodies are a hallmark of the disease and the current perception of their diagnostic and pathogenetic role is analyzed. In addition, B cell cytokine release and its effect on immunity and fibrosis are examined, together with B cell tissue infiltration of the skin and lung. These data support the concept of targeting B cells as part of the therapeutic plan for SSc through well designed clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - George Iliopoulos
- Department of Rheumatology , University of Patras Medical School, Patras University Hospital, Patras, Greece
| | - Lazaros I. Sakkas
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Dimitrios Daoussis
- Department of Rheumatology , University of Patras Medical School, Patras University Hospital, Patras, Greece
- *Correspondence: Dimitrios Daoussis,
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24
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Marks KE, Rao DA. T peripheral helper cells in autoimmune diseases. Immunol Rev 2022; 307:191-202. [PMID: 35103314 PMCID: PMC9009135 DOI: 10.1111/imr.13069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Pathologic T cell-B cell interactions underlie many autoimmune diseases. The T cells that help B cells in autoimmune diseases vary in phenotype and include T cells that lack typical features of T follicular helper cells, such as expression of CXCR5 and BCL6. A population of PD-1hi CXCR5- T peripheral helper (Tph) cells has now been recognized in multiple autoantibody-associated diseases. Tph cells display a distinctive set of features, merging the ability to provide B cell help with the capacity to migrate to inflamed peripheral tissues. Here, we review the scope of immune-related conditions in which Tph cells have been implicated and provide a perspective on their potential contributions to pathologic B cell activation in autoimmune diseases. We discuss Tph cells as a promising therapeutic strategy in autoimmunity and consider the utility of tracking Tph cells in blood as a biomarker to quantify aberrant T cell-B cell activation in patients with autoimmune diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryne E Marks
- Division of Rheumatology, Inflammation, Immunity, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Deepak A Rao
- Division of Rheumatology, Inflammation, Immunity, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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25
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Gur C, Wang SY, Sheban F, Zada M, Li B, Kharouf F, Peleg H, Aamar S, Yalin A, Kirschenbaum D, Braun-Moscovici Y, Jaitin DA, Meir-Salame T, Hagai E, Kragesteen BK, Avni B, Grisariu S, Bornstein C, Shlomi-Loubaton S, David E, Shreberk-Hassidim R, Molho-Pessach V, Amar D, Tzur T, Kuint R, Gross M, Barboy O, Moshe A, Fellus-Alyagor L, Hirsch D, Addadi Y, Erenfeld S, Biton M, Tzemach T, Elazary A, Naparstek Y, Tzemach R, Weiner A, Giladi A, Balbir-Gurman A, Amit I. LGR5 expressing skin fibroblasts define a major cellular hub perturbed in scleroderma. Cell 2022; 185:1373-1388.e20. [PMID: 35381199 PMCID: PMC7612792 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2022.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 12/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (scleroderma, SSc) is an incurable autoimmune disease with high morbidity and mortality rates. Here, we conducted a population-scale single-cell genomic analysis of skin and blood samples of 56 healthy controls and 97 SSc patients at different stages of the disease. We found immune compartment dysfunction only in a specific subtype of diffuse SSc patients but global dysregulation of the stromal compartment, particularly in a previously undefined subset of LGR5+-scleroderma-associated fibroblasts (ScAFs). ScAFs are perturbed morphologically and molecularly in SSc patients. Single-cell multiome profiling of stromal cells revealed ScAF-specific markers, pathways, regulatory elements, and transcription factors underlining disease development. Systematic analysis of these molecular features with clinical metadata associates specific ScAF targets with disease pathogenesis and SSc clinical traits. Our high-resolution atlas of the sclerodermatous skin spectrum will enable a paradigm shift in the understanding of SSc disease and facilitate the development of biomarkers and therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chamutal Gur
- Department of Systems Immunology, Weizmann Institute, Rehovot, Israel; Rheumatology Department, Hadassah Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Shuang-Yin Wang
- Department of Systems Immunology, Weizmann Institute, Rehovot, Israel.
| | - Fadi Sheban
- Department of Systems Immunology, Weizmann Institute, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Mor Zada
- Department of Systems Immunology, Weizmann Institute, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Baoguo Li
- Department of Systems Immunology, Weizmann Institute, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Fadi Kharouf
- Rheumatology Department, Hadassah Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Hagit Peleg
- Rheumatology Department, Hadassah Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Suhail Aamar
- Rheumatology Department, Hadassah Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Adam Yalin
- Department of Systems Immunology, Weizmann Institute, Rehovot, Israel
| | | | - Yolanda Braun-Moscovici
- Rheumatology Institute, Rambam Health Care Campus, Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israeli Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | | | - Tomer Meir-Salame
- Flow Cytometry Unit, Department of Biological Services, Weizmann Institute, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Efrat Hagai
- Flow Cytometry Unit, Department of Biological Services, Weizmann Institute, Rehovot, Israel
| | | | - Batia Avni
- Department of Bone Marrow Transplantation, Hadassah Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Sigal Grisariu
- Department of Bone Marrow Transplantation, Hadassah Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
| | | | | | - Eyal David
- Department of Systems Immunology, Weizmann Institute, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Rony Shreberk-Hassidim
- Dermatology Department, Hadassah Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Vered Molho-Pessach
- Dermatology Department, Hadassah Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Dalit Amar
- Plastic Surgery Department, Hadassah Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Tomer Tzur
- Plastic Surgery Department, Hadassah Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Rottem Kuint
- Institue of Pulmonology Medicine, Hadassah Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Moshe Gross
- Orthopedic Department, Hadassah Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Oren Barboy
- Department of Systems Immunology, Weizmann Institute, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Adi Moshe
- Department of Systems Immunology, Weizmann Institute, Rehovot, Israel
| | | | - Dana Hirsch
- The Department of Veterinary Resources, Weizmann Institute, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Yoseph Addadi
- Life Sciences Core Facilities, Weizmann Institute, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Shlomit Erenfeld
- Department of Bone Marrow Transplantation, Hadassah Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Moshe Biton
- Department of Biological Regulation, Weizmann Institute, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Tehila Tzemach
- Rheumatology Department, Hadassah Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Anat Elazary
- Rheumatology Department, Hadassah Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Yaakov Naparstek
- Rheumatology Department, Hadassah Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Reut Tzemach
- Department of Systems Immunology, Weizmann Institute, Rehovot, Israel; Rheumatology Institute at the Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel
| | - Assaf Weiner
- Department of Systems Immunology, Weizmann Institute, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Amir Giladi
- Department of Systems Immunology, Weizmann Institute, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Alexandra Balbir-Gurman
- Rheumatology Institute, Rambam Health Care Campus, Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israeli Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Ido Amit
- Department of Systems Immunology, Weizmann Institute, Rehovot, Israel.
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26
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Dunlap GS, Billi AC, Xing X, Ma F, Maz MP, Tsoi LC, Wasikowski R, Hodgin JB, Gudjonsson JE, Kahlenberg JM, Rao DA. Single-cell transcriptomics reveals distinct effector profiles of infiltrating T cells in lupus skin and kidney. JCI Insight 2022; 7:156341. [PMID: 35290245 PMCID: PMC9089784 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.156341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Cutaneous lupus is commonly present in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). T cells have been strongly suspected to contribute to the pathology of cutaneous lupus, yet our understanding of the relevant T cell phenotypes and functions remains incomplete. Here, we present a detailed single-cell RNA sequencing profile of T and NK cell populations present within lesional and non-lesional skin biopsies of patients with cutaneous lupus. T cells across clusters from lesional and non-lesional skin biopsies expressed elevated levels of interferon-simulated genes (ISGs); however, compared to T cells from control skin, T cells from cutaneous lupus lesions did not show elevated expression profiles of activation, cytotoxicity, or exhaustion. Integrated analyses indicated that skin lymphocytes appeared less activated and lacked the expanded cytotoxic populations prominent in lupus nephritis kidney T/NK cells. Comparison of skin T cells from lupus and systemic sclerosis skin biopsies further revealed an elevated ISG signature specific to cells from lupus biopsies. Overall, these data represent the first detailed transcriptomic analysis of the T and NK cells in cutaneous lupus at the single cell level and have enabled a cross-tissue comparison that highlights stark differences in composition and activation of T/NK cells in distinct tissues in lupus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Garrett S Dunlap
- Division of Rheumatology, Inflammation, and Immunity, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States of America
| | - Allison C Billi
- Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, United States of America
| | - Xianying Xing
- Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, United States of America
| | - Feiyang Ma
- Department of Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology, UCLA, Los Angeles, United States of America
| | - Mitra P Maz
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, United States of America
| | - Lam C Tsoi
- Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, United States of America
| | - Rachael Wasikowski
- Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, United States of America
| | - Jeffrey B Hodgin
- Department of Pathology and Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, United States of America
| | - Johann E Gudjonsson
- Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, United States of America
| | - J Michelle Kahlenberg
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, United States of America
| | - Deepak A Rao
- Division of Rheumatology, Inflammation, and Immunity, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States of America
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27
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Pan Z, Zhu T, Liu Y, Zhang N. Role of the CXCL13/CXCR5 Axis in Autoimmune Diseases. Front Immunol 2022; 13:850998. [PMID: 35309354 PMCID: PMC8931035 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.850998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
CXCL13 is a B-cell chemokine produced mainly by mesenchymal lymphoid tissue organizer cells, follicular dendritic cells, and human T follicular helper cells. By binding to its receptor, CXCR5, CXCL13 plays an important role in lymphoid neogenesis, lymphoid organization, and immune responses. Recent studies have found that CXCL13 and its receptor CXCR5 are implicated in the pathogenesis of several autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, systemic lupus erythematosus, primary Sjögren’s syndrome, myasthenia gravis, and inflammatory bowel disease. In this review, we discuss the biological features of CXCL13 and CXCR5 and the recent findings on the pathogenic roles of the CXCL13/CXCR5 axis in autoimmune diseases. Furthermore, we discuss the potential role of CXCL13 as a disease biomarker and therapeutic target in autoimmune diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zijian Pan
- National Center for Birth Defect Monitoring, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, and State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Tong Zhu
- National Center for Birth Defect Monitoring, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, and State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yanjun Liu
- National Center for Birth Defect Monitoring, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, and State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Nannan Zhang
- National Center for Birth Defect Monitoring, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, and State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Nannan Zhang,
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28
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Theocharidis G, Tekkela S, Veves A, McGrath JA, Onoufriadis A. Single-cell transcriptomics in human skin research: available technologies, technical considerations, and disease applications. Exp Dermatol 2022; 31:655-673. [PMID: 35196402 PMCID: PMC9311140 DOI: 10.1111/exd.14547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2021] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Single‐cell technologies have revolutionized research in the last decade, including for skin biology. Single‐cell RNA sequencing has emerged as a powerful tool allowing the dissection of human disease pathophysiology at unprecedented resolution by assessing cell‐to‐cell variation, facilitating identification of rare cell populations and elucidating cellular heterogeneity. In dermatology, this technology has been widely applied to inflammatory skin disorders, fibrotic skin diseases, wound healing complications and cutaneous neoplasms. Here, we discuss the available technologies and technical considerations of single‐cell RNA sequencing and describe its applications to a broad spectrum of dermatological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgios Theocharidis
- Joslin-Beth Israel Deaconess Foot Center and The Rongxiang Xu, MD, Center for Regenerative Therapeutics, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Stavroula Tekkela
- St John's Institute of Dermatology, School of Basic and Medical Biosciences, King's College London, London, SE1 9RT, UK
| | - Aristidis Veves
- Joslin-Beth Israel Deaconess Foot Center and The Rongxiang Xu, MD, Center for Regenerative Therapeutics, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - John A McGrath
- St John's Institute of Dermatology, School of Basic and Medical Biosciences, King's College London, London, SE1 9RT, UK
| | - Alexandros Onoufriadis
- St John's Institute of Dermatology, School of Basic and Medical Biosciences, King's College London, London, SE1 9RT, UK
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29
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Dai B, Ding L, Zhao L, Zhu H, Luo H. Contributions of Immune Cells and Stromal Cells to the Pathogenesis of Systemic Sclerosis: Recent Insights. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:826839. [PMID: 35185577 PMCID: PMC8852243 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.826839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a multisystem rheumatic disease characterized by vascular dysfunction, autoimmune abnormalities, and progressive organ fibrosis. A series of studies in SSc patients and fibrotic models suggest that immune cells, fibroblasts, and endothelial cells participate in inflammation and aberrant tissue repair. Furthermore, the growing number of studies on single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) technology in SSc elaborate on the transcriptomics and heterogeneities of these cell subsets significantly. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge regarding immune cells and stromal cells in SSc patients and discuss their potential roles in SSc pathogenesis, focusing on recent advances in the new subtypes by scRNA-seq.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bingying Dai
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Liqing Ding
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Lijuan Zhao
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Honglin Zhu
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Provincial Clinical Research Center for Rheumatic and Immunologic Diseases, Xiangya Hospital, Changsha, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Changsha, China
- *Correspondence: Honglin Zhu, ; Hui Luo,
| | - Hui Luo
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Provincial Clinical Research Center for Rheumatic and Immunologic Diseases, Xiangya Hospital, Changsha, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Changsha, China
- *Correspondence: Honglin Zhu, ; Hui Luo,
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30
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Papadimitriou TI, van Caam A, van der Kraan PM, Thurlings RM. Therapeutic Options for Systemic Sclerosis: Current and Future Perspectives in Tackling Immune-Mediated Fibrosis. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10020316. [PMID: 35203525 PMCID: PMC8869277 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10020316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Revised: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a severe auto-immune, rheumatic disease, characterized by excessive fibrosis of the skin and visceral organs. SSc is accompanied by high morbidity and mortality rates, and unfortunately, few disease-modifying therapies are currently available. Inflammation, vasculopathy, and fibrosis are the key hallmarks of SSc pathology. In this narrative review, we examine the relationship between inflammation and fibrosis and provide an overview of the efficacy of current and novel treatment options in diminishing SSc-related fibrosis based on selected clinical trials. To do this, we first discuss inflammatory pathways of both the innate and acquired immune systems that are associated with SSc pathophysiology. Secondly, we review evidence supporting the use of first-line therapies in SSc patients. In addition, T cell-, B cell-, and cytokine-specific treatments that have been utilized in SSc are explored. Finally, the potential effectiveness of tyrosine kinase inhibitors and other novel therapeutic approaches in reducing fibrosis is highlighted.
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Kuret T, Sodin-Šemrl S, Leskošek B, Ferk P. Single Cell RNA Sequencing in Autoimmune Inflammatory Rheumatic Diseases: Current Applications, Challenges and a Step Toward Precision Medicine. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 8:822804. [PMID: 35118101 PMCID: PMC8804286 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.822804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Single cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) represents a new large scale and high throughput technique allowing analysis of the whole transcriptome at the resolution of an individual cell. It has emerged as an imperative method in life science research, uncovering complex cellular networks and providing indices that will eventually lead to the development of more targeted and personalized therapies. The importance of scRNA-seq has been particularly highlighted through the analysis of complex biological systems, in which cellular heterogeneity is a key aspect, such as the immune system. Autoimmune inflammatory rheumatic diseases represent a group of disorders, associated with a dysregulated immune system and high patient heterogeneity in both pathophysiological and clinical aspects. This complicates the complete understanding of underlying pathological mechanisms, associated with limited therapeutic options available and their long-term inefficiency and even toxicity. There is an unmet need to investigate, in depth, the cellular and molecular mechanisms driving the pathogenesis of rheumatic diseases and drug resistance, identify novel therapeutic targets, as well as make a step forward in using stratified and informed therapeutic decisions, which could now be achieved with the use of single cell approaches. This review summarizes the current use of scRNA-seq in studying different rheumatic diseases, based on recent findings from published in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies, as well as discusses the potential implementation of scRNA-seq in the development of precision medicine in rheumatology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tadeja Kuret
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Cell Biology, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Snežna Sodin-Šemrl
- Department of Rheumatology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Faculty of Mathematics, Natural Sciences and Information Technologies, University of Primorska, Koper, Slovenia
| | - Brane Leskošek
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute for Biostatistics and Medical Informatics/ELIXIR-SI Center, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Polonca Ferk
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute for Biostatistics and Medical Informatics/ELIXIR-SI Center, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- *Correspondence: Polonca Ferk
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Catar R, Herse-Naether M, Zhu N, Wagner P, Wischnewski O, Kusch A, Kamhieh-Milz J, Eisenreich A, Rauch U, Hegner B, Heidecke H, Kill A, Riemekasten G, Kleinau G, Scheerer P, Dragun D, Philippe A. Autoantibodies Targeting AT 1- and ET A-Receptors Link Endothelial Proliferation and Coagulation via Ets-1 Transcription Factor. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 23:244. [PMID: 35008670 PMCID: PMC8745726 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23010244] [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: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Scleroderma renal crisis (SRC) is an acute life-threatening manifestation of systemic sclerosis (SSc) caused by obliterative vasculopathy and thrombotic microangiopathy. Evidence suggests a pathogenic role of immunoglobulin G (IgG) targeting G-protein coupled receptors (GPCR). We therefore dissected SRC-associated vascular obliteration and investigated the specific effects of patient-derived IgG directed against angiotensin II type 1 (AT1R) and endothelin-1 type A receptors (ETAR) on downstream signaling events and endothelial cell proliferation. SRC-IgG triggered endothelial cell proliferation via activation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway and subsequent activation of the E26 transformation-specific-1 transcription factor (Ets-1). Either AT1R or ETAR receptor inhibitors/shRNA abrogated endothelial proliferation, confirming receptor activation and Ets-1 signaling involvement. Binding of Ets-1 to the tissue factor (TF) promoter exclusively induced TF. In addition, TF inhibition prevented endothelial cell proliferation. Thus, our data revealed a thus far unknown link between SRC-IgG-induced intracellular signaling, endothelial cell proliferation and active coagulation in the context of obliterative vasculopathy and SRC. Patients' autoantibodies and their molecular effectors represent new therapeutic targets to address severe vascular complications in SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rusan Catar
- Department of Nephrology and Medical Intensive Care, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany; (M.H.-N.); (N.Z.); (P.W.); (O.W.); (A.K.); (B.H.)
- Center for Cardiovascular Research, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Melanie Herse-Naether
- Department of Nephrology and Medical Intensive Care, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany; (M.H.-N.); (N.Z.); (P.W.); (O.W.); (A.K.); (B.H.)
- Center for Cardiovascular Research, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Nan Zhu
- Department of Nephrology and Medical Intensive Care, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany; (M.H.-N.); (N.Z.); (P.W.); (O.W.); (A.K.); (B.H.)
- Shanghai General Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Philine Wagner
- Department of Nephrology and Medical Intensive Care, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany; (M.H.-N.); (N.Z.); (P.W.); (O.W.); (A.K.); (B.H.)
- Center for Cardiovascular Research, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Oskar Wischnewski
- Department of Nephrology and Medical Intensive Care, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany; (M.H.-N.); (N.Z.); (P.W.); (O.W.); (A.K.); (B.H.)
- Center for Cardiovascular Research, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Angelika Kusch
- Department of Nephrology and Medical Intensive Care, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany; (M.H.-N.); (N.Z.); (P.W.); (O.W.); (A.K.); (B.H.)
- Center for Cardiovascular Research, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- Berlin Institute of Health, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, BIH Biomedical Innovation Academy, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Julian Kamhieh-Milz
- Department of Transfusion Medicine, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany;
| | - Andreas Eisenreich
- Department of Cardiology, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany; (A.E.); (U.R.)
| | - Ursula Rauch
- Department of Cardiology, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany; (A.E.); (U.R.)
| | - Björn Hegner
- Department of Nephrology and Medical Intensive Care, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany; (M.H.-N.); (N.Z.); (P.W.); (O.W.); (A.K.); (B.H.)
- Center for Cardiovascular Research, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- Vitanas Klinik für Geriatrie, 13435 Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Angela Kill
- Deutsches Rheuma-Forschungszentrum (DRFZ), A. Leibniz Institute, 10117 Berlin, Germany; (A.K.); (G.R.)
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, CCM, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Gabriela Riemekasten
- Deutsches Rheuma-Forschungszentrum (DRFZ), A. Leibniz Institute, 10117 Berlin, Germany; (A.K.); (G.R.)
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, CCM, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- Priority Area Asthma & Allergy, Research Center Borstel, Airway Research Center North (ARCN), Members of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), 23845 Borstel, Germany
| | - Gunnar Kleinau
- Group Protein X-ray Crystallography and Signal Transduction, Institute of Medical Physics and Biophysics, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany; (G.K.); (P.S.)
| | - Patrick Scheerer
- Group Protein X-ray Crystallography and Signal Transduction, Institute of Medical Physics and Biophysics, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany; (G.K.); (P.S.)
- DZHK (Deutsches Zentrum für Herz-Kreislauf Forschung), Partner Site Berlin, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Duska Dragun
- Department of Nephrology and Medical Intensive Care, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany; (M.H.-N.); (N.Z.); (P.W.); (O.W.); (A.K.); (B.H.)
- Center for Cardiovascular Research, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- Berlin Institute of Health, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, BIH Biomedical Innovation Academy, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Aurelie Philippe
- Department of Nephrology and Medical Intensive Care, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany; (M.H.-N.); (N.Z.); (P.W.); (O.W.); (A.K.); (B.H.)
- Center for Cardiovascular Research, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- Berlin Institute of Health, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, BIH Biomedical Innovation Academy, 10117 Berlin, Germany
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Insights Into Systemic Sclerosis from Gene Expression Profiling. CURRENT TREATMENT OPTIONS IN RHEUMATOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s40674-021-00183-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Gao Y, Dunlap G, Elahee M, Rao DA. Patterns of T-Cell Phenotypes in Rheumatic Diseases From Single-Cell Studies of Tissue. ACR Open Rheumatol 2021; 3:601-613. [PMID: 34255929 PMCID: PMC8449042 DOI: 10.1002/acr2.11296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
High-dimensional analyses of tissue samples from patients with rheumatic diseases are providing increasingly detailed descriptions of the immune cell populations that infiltrate tissues in different rheumatic diseases. Here we review key observations emerging from high-dimensional analyses of T cells within tissues in different rheumatic diseases, highlighting common themes across diseases as well as distinguishing features. Single-cell RNA sequencing analyses capture several dimensions of T-cell states, yet surprisingly, these analyses generally have not demonstrated distinct clusters of paradigmatic T-cell effector subsets, such as T helper (Th) 1, Th2, and Th17 cells. Rather, global transcriptomics robustly identify both proliferating T cells and regulatory T cells and have also helped to reveal new effector subsets in inflamed tissues, including T peripheral helper cells and granzyme K+ T cells. Further characterization of the T-cell populations that accumulate within target tissues should enable more precise targeting of biologic therapies and accelerate development of more specific biomarkers to track activity of relevant immune pathways in patients with rheumatic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yidan Gao
- Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Garrett Dunlap
- Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Mehreen Elahee
- Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Deepak A Rao
- Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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