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Cavusoglu Nalbantoglu I, Sevgi S, Kerimoglu G, Kadıoglu Duman M, Kalyoncu NI. Ursodeoxycholic acid ameliorates erectile dysfunction and corporal fibrosis in diabetic rats by inhibiting the TGF-β1/Smad2 pathway. Int J Impot Res 2024:10.1038/s41443-024-00868-9. [PMID: 38454160 DOI: 10.1038/s41443-024-00868-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Corporal tissue fibrosis is critical in diabetes-associated erectile dysfunction. Transforming growth factor-β1/Small mothers against decapentaplegic-2 (TGF-β1/Smad2) contributes to the induction of fibrosis in corporal tissue. Smad7 is accepted as a general negative regulator of Smad signaling, although its role in corporal fibrosis is unknown. Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) is a hydrophilic bile acid used for biliary and liver related disorders and has antifibrotic effects in the liver. This study investigated the effects of UDCA on diabetic erectile dysfunction. Forty-eight male Spraque Dawley rats were divided into six groups: nondiabetic (n = 6), nondiabetic+20 mg/kg UDCA (n = 6), nondiabetic+80 mg/kg UDCA (n = 6), diabetic (n = 10), diabetic+20 mg/kg UDCA (n = 10), diabetic+80 mg/kg UDCA (n = 10). Diabetes was induced by intraperitoneal injection of 60 mg/kg Streptozocin. UDCA (20 and 80 mg/kg/day) or saline was subsequently administered via oral gavage for 56 days. Erectile function was evaluated as measurement of maximum intracavernosal pressure (m-ICP)/mean arterial pressure (MAP) and total ICP/MAP. Corporal tissues were evaluated by Western blotting and Masson's trichrome staining. Electrical stimulation-induced m-ICP/MAP responses were higher in UDCA-treated diabetic rats compared to untreated diabetic rats, respectively (20 mg/kg; 4 V: 0.77 ± 0.11 vs 0.45 ± 0.09, p = 0.0001 and 80 mg/kg; 4 V: 0.78 ± 0.11 vs 0.45 ± 0.09, p = 0.0001) UDCA prevented the increase in phospho-Smad2 and fibronectin protein expressions in diabetic corporal tissue both at 20 mg/kg (p = 0.0002, p = 0.002 respectively) and 80 mg/kg doses (p < 0.0001 for both). Smad7 protein expressions were significantly increased in the UDCA-treated diabetic groups compared to the untreated diabetic group (20 mg/kg: p = 0.0079; 80 mg/kg: p = 0.004). Furthermore, UDCA significantly prevented diabetes-induced increase in collagen (20 mg/kg: p = 0.0172; 80 mg/kg: p = 0.0003) and smooth muscle loss (20 mg/kg: p = 0.044; 80 mg/kg: p = 0.039). In conclusion, UDCA has a potential protective effect on erectile function in diabetic rats by altering fibrotic pathways via inhibition of TGF-β1/Smad2 and activation of Smad7.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irem Cavusoglu Nalbantoglu
- Department of Pharmacology, Graduate School of Health Sciences, Karadeniz Technical University, Trabzon, Türkiye.
| | - Serhat Sevgi
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Karadeniz Technical University, Trabzon, Türkiye
| | - Gokcen Kerimoglu
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Karadeniz Technical University, Trabzon, Türkiye
| | - Mine Kadıoglu Duman
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Karadeniz Technical University, Trabzon, Türkiye
| | - Nuri Ihsan Kalyoncu
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Karadeniz Technical University, Trabzon, Türkiye
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2
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Fung M, Armstrong JJ, Zhang R, Vinokurtseva A, Liu H, Hutnik C. Development and Verification of a Novel Three-Dimensional Aqueous Outflow Model for High-Throughput Drug Screening. Bioengineering (Basel) 2024; 11:142. [PMID: 38391628 PMCID: PMC10885921 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering11020142] [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: 12/30/2023] [Revised: 01/20/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Distal outflow bleb-forming procedures in ophthalmic surgery expose subconjunctival tissue to inflammatory cytokines present in the aqueous humor, resulting in impaired outflow and, consequently, increased intraocular pressure. Clinically, this manifests as an increased risk of surgical failure often necessitating revision. This study (1) introduces a novel high-throughput screening platform for testing potential anti-fibrotic compounds and (2) assesses the clinical viability of modulating the transforming growth factor beta-SMAD2/3 pathway as a key contributor to post-operative outflow reduction, using the signal transduction inhibitor verteporfin. Human Tenon's capsule fibroblasts (HTCFs) were cultured within a 3D collagen matrix in a microfluidic system modelling aqueous humor drainage. The perfusate was augmented with transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGFβ1), and afferent pressure to the tissue-mimetic was continuously monitored to detect treatment-related pressure elevations. Co-treatment with verteporfin was employed to evaluate its capacity to counteract TGFβ1 induced pressure changes. Immunofluorescent studies were conducted on the tissue-mimetic to corroborate the pressure data with cellular changes. Introduction of TGFβ1 induced treatment-related afferent pressure increase in the tissue-mimetic. HTCFs treated with TGFβ1 displayed visibly enlarged cytoskeletons and stress fiber formation, consistent with myofibroblast transformation. Importantly, verteporfin effectively mitigated these changes, reducing both afferent pressure increases and cytoskeletal alterations. In summary, this study models the pathological filtration bleb response to TGFβ1, while demonstrating verteporfin's effectiveness in ameliorating both functional and cellular changes caused by TGFβ1. These demonstrate modulation of the aforementioned pathway as a potential avenue for addressing post-operative changes and reductions in filtration bleb outflow capacity. Furthermore, the establishment of a high-throughput screening platform offers a valuable pre-animal testing tool for investigating potential compounds to facilitate surgical wound healing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Fung
- Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
| | - James J Armstrong
- Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
- Department of Ophthalmology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
| | - Richard Zhang
- Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
| | - Anastasiya Vinokurtseva
- Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
- Department of Ophthalmology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
| | - Hong Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
| | - Cindy Hutnik
- Department of Ophthalmology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ivey Eye Institute, St. Joseph's Health Center, London, ON N6A 4V2, Canada
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3
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The role of SMAD signaling in hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy: an immunohistopathological study in pediatric and adult patients. Sci Rep 2023; 13:3706. [PMID: 36878974 PMCID: PMC9988847 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-30776-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM) can bring a high risk of sudden cardiac death in young people. It is particularly urgent to understand the development and mechanism of HOCM to prevent unsafe incidents. Here, the comparison between pediatric and adult patients with HOCM has been performed to uncover the signaling mechanism regulating pathological process through histopathological analysis and immunohistochemical analysis. We found SMAD proteins played an important role during myocardial fibrosis for HOCM patients. In patients with HOCM, Masson and HE staining showed that myocardial cells were diffusely hypertrophied with obvious disorganized myocardial fiber alignment, and myocardial tissue was more damaged and collagen fibers increased significantly, which come early in childhood. Increased expressions of SMAD2 and SMAD3 contributed to myocardial fibrosis in patients with HOCM, which happened early in childhood and continued through adulthood. In addition, decreased expression of SMAD7 was closely related to collagen deposition, which negatively expedited fibrotic responses in patients with HOCM. Our study indicated that the abnormal regulation of SMAD signaling pathway can lead to severe myocardial fibrosis in childhood and its fibrogenic effects persist into adulthood, which is a crucial factor in causing sudden cardiac death and heart failure in HOCM patients.
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Kim CW, Yoon Y, Kim MY, Baik SK, Ryu H, Park IH, Eom YW. 12- O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate Reduces Activation of Hepatic Stellate Cells by Inhibiting the Hippo Pathway Transcriptional Coactivator YAP. Cells 2022; 12:cells12010091. [PMID: 36611885 PMCID: PMC9818550 DOI: 10.3390/cells12010091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Although protein kinase C (PKC) regulates various biological activities, including cell proliferation, differentiation, migration, tissue remodeling, gene expression, and cell death, the antifibrotic effect of PKC in myofibroblasts is not fully understood. We investigated whether 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA), a PKC activator, reduced the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and explored the involvement of the Hippo pathway transcriptional coactivator YAP. We analyzed the effect of TPA on the proliferation and expression of α-smooth muscle actin (SMA) in the LX-2 HSC line. We also analyzed the phosphorylation of the Hippo pathway molecules YAP and LATS1 and investigated YAP nuclear translocation. We examined whether Gö 6983, a pan-PKC inhibitor, restored the TPA-inhibited activities of HSCs. Administration of TPA decreased the growth rate of LX-2 cells and inhibited the expression of α-SMA and collagen type I alpha 1 (COL1A1). In addition, TPA induced phosphorylation of PKCδ, LATS1, and YAP and inhibited the nuclear translocation of YAP compared with the control. These TPA-induced phenomena were mostly ameliorated by Gö 6983. Our results indicate that PKCδ exerts an antifibrotic effect by inhibiting the Hippo pathway in HSCs. Therefore, PKCδ and YAP can be used as therapeutic targets for the treatment of fibrotic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang Wan Kim
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju 26426, Republic of Korea
| | - Yongdae Yoon
- Regeneration Medicine Research Center, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju 26426, Republic of Korea
| | - Moon Young Kim
- Regeneration Medicine Research Center, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju 26426, Republic of Korea
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju 26426, Republic of Korea
| | - Soon Koo Baik
- Regeneration Medicine Research Center, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju 26426, Republic of Korea
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju 26426, Republic of Korea
| | - Hoon Ryu
- Department of Surgery, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju 26426, Republic of Korea
| | - Il Hwan Park
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju 26426, Republic of Korea
- Correspondence: (I.H.P.); (Y.W.E.); Tel.: +82-33-741-0260 (Y.W.E.)
| | - Young Woo Eom
- Regeneration Medicine Research Center, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju 26426, Republic of Korea
- Correspondence: (I.H.P.); (Y.W.E.); Tel.: +82-33-741-0260 (Y.W.E.)
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5
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Signaling cascades in the failing heart and emerging therapeutic strategies. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2022; 7:134. [PMID: 35461308 PMCID: PMC9035186 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-022-00972-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Revised: 03/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic heart failure is the end stage of cardiac diseases. With a high prevalence and a high mortality rate worldwide, chronic heart failure is one of the heaviest health-related burdens. In addition to the standard neurohormonal blockade therapy, several medications have been developed for chronic heart failure treatment, but the population-wide improvement in chronic heart failure prognosis over time has been modest, and novel therapies are still needed. Mechanistic discovery and technical innovation are powerful driving forces for therapeutic development. On the one hand, the past decades have witnessed great progress in understanding the mechanism of chronic heart failure. It is now known that chronic heart failure is not only a matter involving cardiomyocytes. Instead, chronic heart failure involves numerous signaling pathways in noncardiomyocytes, including fibroblasts, immune cells, vascular cells, and lymphatic endothelial cells, and crosstalk among these cells. The complex regulatory network includes protein-protein, protein-RNA, and RNA-RNA interactions. These achievements in mechanistic studies provide novel insights for future therapeutic targets. On the other hand, with the development of modern biological techniques, targeting a protein pharmacologically is no longer the sole option for treating chronic heart failure. Gene therapy can directly manipulate the expression level of genes; gene editing techniques provide hope for curing hereditary cardiomyopathy; cell therapy aims to replace dysfunctional cardiomyocytes; and xenotransplantation may solve the problem of donor heart shortages. In this paper, we reviewed these two aspects in the field of failing heart signaling cascades and emerging therapeutic strategies based on modern biological techniques.
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6
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Hong JH, Zhang HG. Transcription Factors Involved in the Development and Prognosis of Cardiac Remodeling. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:828549. [PMID: 35185581 PMCID: PMC8849252 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.828549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
To compensate increasing workload, heart must work harder with structural changes, indicated by increasing size and changing shape, causing cardiac remodeling. However, pathological and unlimited compensated cardiac remodeling will ultimately lead to decompensation and heart failure. In the past decade, numerous studies have explored many signaling pathways involved in cardiac remodeling, but the complete mechanism of cardiac remodeling is still unrecognized, which hinders effective treatment and drug development. As gene transcriptional regulators, transcription factors control multiple cellular activities and play a critical role in cardiac remodeling. This review summarizes the regulation of fetal gene reprogramming, energy metabolism, apoptosis, autophagy in cardiomyocytes and myofibroblast activation of cardiac fibroblasts by transcription factors, with an emphasis on their potential roles in the development and prognosis of cardiac remodeling.
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7
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de Oliveira Camargo R, Abual'anaz B, Rattan SG, Filomeno KL, Dixon IMC. Novel factors that activate and deactivate cardiac fibroblasts: A new perspective for treatment of cardiac fibrosis. Wound Repair Regen 2021; 29:667-677. [PMID: 34076932 DOI: 10.1111/wrr.12947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Revised: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Heart disease with attendant cardiac fibrosis kills more patients in developed countries than any other disease, including cancer. We highlight the recent literature on factors that activate and also deactivate cardiac fibroblasts. Activation of cardiac fibroblasts results in myofibroblasts phenotype which incorporates aSMA to stress fibres, express ED-A fibronectin, elevated PDGFRα and are hypersecretory ECM components. These cells facilitate both acute wound healing (infarct site) and chronic cardiac fibrosis. Quiescent fibroblasts are associated with normal myocardial tissue and provide relatively slow turnover of the ECM. Deactivation of activated myofibroblasts is a much less studied phenomenon. In this context, SKI is a known negative regulator of TGFb1 /Smad signalling, and thus may share functional similarity to PPARγ activation. The discovery of SKI's potent anti-fibrotic role, and its ability to deactivate and/or myofibroblasts is featured and contrasted with PPARγ. While myofibroblasts are typically recruited from pools of potential precursor cells in a variety of organs, the importance of activation of resident cardiac fibroblasts has been recently emphasised. Myofibroblasts deposit ECM components at an elevated rate and contribute to both systolic and diastolic dysfunction with attendant cardiac fibrosis. A major knowledge gap exists as to specific proteins that may signal for fibroblast deactivation. As SKI may be a functionally pluripotent protein, we suggest that it serves as a scaffold to proteins other than R-Smads and associated Smad signal proteins, and thus its anti-fibrotic effects may extend beyond binding R-Smads. While cardiac fibrosis is causal to heart failure, the treatment of cardiac fibrosis is hampered by the lack of availability of effective pharmacological anti-fibrotic agents. The current review will provide an overview of work highlighting novel factors which cause fibroblast activation and deactivation to underscore putative therapeutic avenues for improving disease outcomes in cardiac patients with fibrosed hearts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebeca de Oliveira Camargo
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, Albrechtsen Research Centre, Winnipeg, Canada.,Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada.,Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Besher Abual'anaz
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, Albrechtsen Research Centre, Winnipeg, Canada.,Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada.,Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Sunil G Rattan
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, Albrechtsen Research Centre, Winnipeg, Canada.,Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada.,Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Krista L Filomeno
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, Albrechtsen Research Centre, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Ian M C Dixon
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, Albrechtsen Research Centre, Winnipeg, Canada.,Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada.,Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
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8
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The Impact of microRNAs in Renin-Angiotensin-System-Induced Cardiac Remodelling. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22094762. [PMID: 33946230 PMCID: PMC8124994 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22094762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Revised: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Current knowledge on the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) indicates its central role in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular remodelling via both hemodynamic alterations and direct growth and the proliferation effects of angiotensin II or aldosterone resulting in the hypertrophy of cardiomyocytes, the proliferation of fibroblasts, and inflammatory immune cell activation. The noncoding regulatory microRNAs has recently emerged as a completely novel approach to the study of the RAS. A growing number of microRNAs serve as mediators and/or regulators of RAS-induced cardiac remodelling by directly targeting RAS enzymes, receptors, signalling molecules, or inhibitors of signalling pathways. Specifically, microRNAs that directly modulate pro-hypertrophic, pro-fibrotic and pro-inflammatory signalling initiated by angiotensin II receptor type 1 (AT1R) stimulation are of particular relevance in mediating the cardiovascular effects of the RAS. The aim of this review is to summarize the current knowledge in the field that is still in the early stage of preclinical investigation with occasionally conflicting reports. Understanding the big picture of microRNAs not only aids in the improved understanding of cardiac response to injury but also leads to better therapeutic strategies utilizing microRNAs as biomarkers, therapeutic agents and pharmacological targets.
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9
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The antihypertensive effect and mechanisms of bioactive peptides from Ruditapes philippinarum fermented with Bacillus natto in spontaneously hypertensive rats. J Funct Foods 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2021.104411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
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10
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Hanna A, Humeres C, Frangogiannis NG. The role of Smad signaling cascades in cardiac fibrosis. Cell Signal 2020; 77:109826. [PMID: 33160018 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2020.109826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2020] [Revised: 10/31/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Most myocardial pathologic conditions are associated with cardiac fibrosis, the expansion of the cardiac interstitium through deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins. Although replacement fibrosis plays a reparative role after myocardial infarction, excessive, unrestrained or dysregulated myocardial ECM deposition is associated with ventricular dysfunction, dysrhythmias and adverse prognosis in patients with heart failure. The members of the Transforming Growth Factor (TGF)-β superfamily are critical regulators of cardiac repair, remodeling and fibrosis. TGF-βs are released and activated in injured tissues, bind to their receptors and transduce signals in part through activation of cascades involving a family of intracellular effectors the receptor-activated Smads (R-Smads). This review manuscript summarizes our knowledge on the role of Smad signaling cascades in cardiac fibrosis. Smad3, the best-characterized member of the family plays a critical role in activation of a myofibroblast phenotype, stimulation of ECM synthesis, integrin expression and secretion of proteases and anti-proteases. In vivo, fibroblast Smad3 signaling is critically involved in scar organization and exerts matrix-preserving actions. Although Smad2 also regulates fibroblast function in vitro, its in vivo role in rodent models of cardiac fibrosis seems more limited. Very limited information is available on the potential involvement of the Smad1/5/8 cascade in cardiac fibrosis. Dissection of the cellular actions of Smads in cardiac fibrosis, and identification of patient subsets with overactive or dysregulated myocardial Smad-dependent fibrogenic responses are critical for design of successful therapeutic strategies in patients with fibrosis-associated heart failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anis Hanna
- The Wilf Family Cardiovascular Research Institute, Department of Medicine (Cardiology), Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Claudio Humeres
- The Wilf Family Cardiovascular Research Institute, Department of Medicine (Cardiology), Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Nikolaos G Frangogiannis
- The Wilf Family Cardiovascular Research Institute, Department of Medicine (Cardiology), Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA.
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11
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Wang A, Cao S, Aboelkassem Y, Valdez-Jasso D. Quantification of uncertainty in a new network model of pulmonary arterial adventitial fibroblast pro-fibrotic signalling. PHILOSOPHICAL TRANSACTIONS. SERIES A, MATHEMATICAL, PHYSICAL, AND ENGINEERING SCIENCES 2020; 378:20190338. [PMID: 32448066 PMCID: PMC7287331 DOI: 10.1098/rsta.2019.0338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/16/2020] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Here, we present a novel network model of the pulmonary arterial adventitial fibroblast (PAAF) that represents seven signalling pathways, confirmed to be important in pulmonary arterial fibrosis, as 92 reactions and 64 state variables. Without optimizing parameters, the model correctly predicted 80% of 39 results of input-output and inhibition experiments reported in 20 independent papers not used to formulate the original network. Parameter uncertainty quantification (UQ) showed that this measure of model accuracy is robust to changes in input weights and half-maximal activation levels (EC50), but is more affected by uncertainty in the Hill coefficient (n), which governs the biochemical cooperativity or steepness of the sigmoidal activation function of each state variable. Epistemic uncertainty in model structure, due to the reliance of some network components and interactions on experiments using non-PAAF cell types, suggested that this source of uncertainty had a smaller impact on model accuracy than the alternative of reducing the network to only those interactions reported in PAAFs. UQ highlighted model parameters that can be optimized to improve prediction accuracy and network modules where there is the greatest need for new experiments. This article is part of the theme issue 'Uncertainty quantification in cardiac and cardiovascular modelling and simulation'.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Daniela Valdez-Jasso
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92092, USA
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12
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Yousefi F, Shabaninejad Z, Vakili S, Derakhshan M, Movahedpour A, Dabiri H, Ghasemi Y, Mahjoubin-Tehran M, Nikoozadeh A, Savardashtaki A, Mirzaei H, Hamblin MR. TGF-β and WNT signaling pathways in cardiac fibrosis: non-coding RNAs come into focus. Cell Commun Signal 2020; 18:87. [PMID: 32517807 PMCID: PMC7281690 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-020-00555-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2020] [Accepted: 03/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardiac fibrosis describes the inappropriate proliferation of cardiac fibroblasts (CFs), leading to accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins in the cardiac muscle, which is found in many pathophysiological heart conditions. A range of molecular components and cellular pathways, have been implicated in its pathogenesis. In this review, we focus on the TGF-β and WNT signaling pathways, and their mutual interaction, which have emerged as important factors involved in cardiac pathophysiology. The molecular and cellular processes involved in the initiation and progression of cardiac fibrosis are summarized. We focus on TGF-β and WNT signaling in cardiac fibrosis, ECM production, and myofibroblast transformation. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are one of the main players in the regulation of multiple pathways and cellular processes. MicroRNAs, long non-coding RNAs, and circular long non-coding RNAs can all interact with the TGF-β/WNT signaling axis to affect cardiac fibrosis. A better understanding of these processes may lead to new approaches for diagnosis and treatment of many cardiac conditions. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Yousefi
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Shabaninejad
- Department of Nanotechnology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.,Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Sina Vakili
- Biochemistry Department, Medical School, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Maryam Derakhshan
- Department of Pathology, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Ahmad Movahedpour
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.,Student research committee, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Hamed Dabiri
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Stem Cell and Development Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Younes Ghasemi
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.,Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Maryam Mahjoubin-Tehran
- Student Research Committee, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Azin Nikoozadeh
- Pathology Department, School of Medicine,Mashhad Univesity of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Amir Savardashtaki
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran. .,Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
| | - Hamed Mirzaei
- Research Center for Biochemistry and Nutrition in Metabolic Diseases, Institute for Basic Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, IR, Iran.
| | - Michael R Hamblin
- Wellman Center for Photomedicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 40 Blossom Street, Boston, MA, 02114, USA. .,Laser Research Centre, Faculty of Health Science, University of Johannesburg, Doornfontein, 2028, South Africa.
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13
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Chen G, Huang S, Song F, Zhou Y, He X. Lnc-Ang362 is a pro-fibrotic long non-coding RNA promoting cardiac fibrosis after myocardial infarction by suppressing Smad7. Arch Biochem Biophys 2020; 685:108354. [PMID: 32240638 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2020.108354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2019] [Revised: 03/26/2020] [Accepted: 03/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cardiac fibrosis following myocardial infarction (MI) leads to cardiac remodeling and dysfunction. Dysregulation of Smad7 which negatively regulates the profibrotic transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1)/Smad signaling promotes cardiac fibrosis. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying TGF-β1/Smad7 dysregulation remain elusive. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are recently emerging as important regulators of cardiac diseases. Here, we report lnc-Ang362 is a novel lncRNA mediating MI-induced fibrosis through TGF-β1/Smad7 signaling pathway. METHODS AND RESULTS The MI model was established by artificial coronary artery occlusion in rats. Microarray analysis identified 215 lncRNAs (fold change > 2.0, P < 0.05) differentially expressed between MI hearts and the sham group 4 weeks after MI. Lnc-Ang362 had the highest fold upregulation and the change was validated by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. Also, MI caused a marked increase in TGF-β1 and collagen I/III expression, but significantly downregulated Smad7 expression. Adult rat cardiac fibroblasts (RCFs) treated with TGF-β1 showed increased lnc-Ang362 expression and decreased Smad7 expression. Moreover, overexpression and knockdown of lnc-Ang362 by small interfering RNAs reduced and increased Smad7 expression, respectively. Importantly, this result was negatively correlated with the expression of collagen I/III in RCFs. Furthermore, the luciferase reporter assays confirmed that Smad7 was a validated lnc-Ang362 target. Further silencing Smad7 attenuated the effects of lnc-Ang362 knockdown on decreasing collagen I/III expression in RCFs. CONCLUSIONS These results suggested lnc-Ang362 promoted cardiac fibrosis after MI via directly suppressing Smad7, which may decrease the inhibitory feedback regulation of TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway. Thus, lnc-Ang362 may be a novel profibrotic lncRNA in the regulation of cardiac fibrosis post MI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guo Chen
- Department of Cardiology, Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Coronary Heart Disease Prevention, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Sihui Huang
- Department of Cardiology, Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Coronary Heart Disease Prevention, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China; The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Feier Song
- Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Yingling Zhou
- Department of Cardiology, Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Coronary Heart Disease Prevention, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Xuyu He
- Department of Cardiology, Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Coronary Heart Disease Prevention, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China.
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Sitbon YH, Kazmierczak K, Liang J, Yadav S, Veerasammy M, Kanashiro-Takeuchi RM, Szczesna-Cordary D. Ablation of the N terminus of cardiac essential light chain promotes the super-relaxed state of myosin and counteracts hypercontractility in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy mutant mice. FEBS J 2020; 287:3989-4004. [PMID: 32034976 DOI: 10.1111/febs.15243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2019] [Revised: 12/27/2019] [Accepted: 02/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
In this study, we focus on the molecular mechanisms associated with the A57G (Ala57-to-Gly57) mutation in myosin essential light chains (ELCs), found to cause hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) in humans and in mice. Specifically, we studied the effects of A57G on the super-relaxed (SRX) state of myosin that may contribute to the hypercontractile cross-bridge behavior and ultimately lead to pathological cardiac remodeling in transgenic Tg-A57G mice. The disease model was compared to Tg-WT mice, expressing the wild-type human ventricular ELC, and analyzed against Tg-Δ43 mice, expressing the N-terminally truncated ELC, whose hearts hypertrophy with time but do not show any abnormalities in cardiac morphology or function. Our data suggest a new role for the N terminus of cardiac ELC (N-ELC) in modulation of myosin cross-bridge function in the healthy as well as in HCM myocardium. The lack of N-ELC in Tg-Δ43 mice was found to significantly stabilize the SRX state of myosin and increase the number of myosin heads occupying a low-energy state. In agreement, Δ43 hearts showed significantly decreased ATP utilization and low actin-activated myosin ATPase compared with A57G and WT hearts. The hypercontractile activity of A57G-ELC cross-bridges was manifested by the inhibition of the SRX state, increased number of myosin heads available for interaction with actin, and higher ATPase activity. Fiber mechanics studies, echocardiography examination, and assessment of fibrosis confirmed the development of two distinct forms of cardiac remodeling in these two ELC mouse models, with pathological cardiac hypertrophy in Tg-A57G, and near physiologic cardiac growth in Tg-Δ43 animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoel H Sitbon
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, FL, USA
| | - Katarzyna Kazmierczak
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, FL, USA
| | - Jingsheng Liang
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, FL, USA
| | - Sunil Yadav
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, FL, USA
| | | | | | - Danuta Szczesna-Cordary
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, FL, USA
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15
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Li X, Chu G, Zhu F, Zheng Z, Wang X, Zhang G, Wang F. Epoxyeicosatrienoic acid prevents maladaptive remodeling in pressure overload by targeting calcineurin/NFAT and Smad-7. Exp Cell Res 2020; 386:111716. [PMID: 31734152 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2019.111716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2019] [Revised: 11/06/2019] [Accepted: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Emerging evidence demonstrates that epoxyeicosatrienoic acids (EETs) as important active eicosanoids that regulate cardiovascular homeostasis, but the mechanisms underlying its favorable anti-hypertrophic benefits in overpressure model remain obscure. METHODS AND RESULTS Four weeks after transverse aortic constriction (TAC), TAC mice developed maladaptive cardiac hypertrophy and consequent cardiac failure. Conversely, a cardiotropic adeno-associated viral vector (AAV9) encoding CYP2J2 prevented transverse aortic constriction-induced cardiac hypertrophy with preserved ejection fraction. EET also conferred protection against phenylephrine-induced hypertrophy in H9c2 cardiomyoblasts. Further investigations indicate CYP2J2/EET exerts protection against cardiac hypertrophy through opposing the increase of intracellular Ca2+ level and Ca2+-mediated calcineurin/NFATc3 signaling. Meanwhile, extended myocardial fibrosis in TAC mice was also effectively abolished with the administration of AAV9-2J2. Intriguingly, TAC mice display activated TGF-β/Samd-3 signaling with decreased Smad-7 expression, whereas AAV9-2J2 attenuated the phosphorylation of Smad-3 without altering TGF-β expression, whilst preservation of Smad-7. Subsequently, the differentiation of cardiac fibroblasts into myofibroblasts in the presence of TGF-β1 stimulation was significantly disrupted with EET treatment, accompanied by declined Smad-3 activation and collagen production, whereas inhibition of Smad-7 with SiRNA Smad-7 substantially abrogated these effects of EET on cardiac fibroblasts. CONCLUSIONS EET has synergistic actions on cardiomyocytes and cardiac fibroblasts, preventing cardiac hypertrophy through inhibition of Ca2+-mediated calcineurin/NFATc3 signaling cascades, and ameliorating myocardial fibrosis dependent on Smad-7. This work further extends the potential mechanisms of EET, providing a novel therapeutic approach for the treatment of pathological remodeling and heart failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuguang Li
- Department of Cardiology, Shanghai General Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200080, People's Republic of China
| | - Guang Chu
- Department of Cardiology, Shanghai General Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200080, People's Republic of China
| | - Feng Zhu
- Department of Cardiology, Shanghai General Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200080, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhifeng Zheng
- Department of Cardiology, Shanghai General Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200080, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiang Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Shanghai General Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200080, People's Republic of China
| | - Guobing Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, Shanghai General Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200080, People's Republic of China
| | - Fang Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Shanghai General Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200080, People's Republic of China.
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16
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Landry N, Kavosh MS, Filomeno KL, Rattan SG, Czubryt MP, Dixon IMC. Ski drives an acute increase in MMP-9 gene expression and release in primary cardiac myofibroblasts. Physiol Rep 2019; 6:e13897. [PMID: 30488595 PMCID: PMC6429976 DOI: 10.14814/phy2.13897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2018] [Revised: 09/24/2018] [Accepted: 09/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Many etiologies of heart disease are characterized by expansion and remodeling of the cardiac extracellular matrix (ECM or matrix) which results in cardiac fibrosis. Cardiac fibrosis is mediated in cardiac fibroblasts by TGF‐β1/R‐Smad2/3 signaling. Matrix component proteins are synthesized by activated resident cardiac fibroblasts known as myofibroblasts (MFB). These events are causal to heart failure with diastolic dysfunction and reduced cardiac filling. We have shown that exogenous Ski, a TGF‐β1/Smad repressor, localizes in the cellular nucleus and deactivates cardiac myofibroblasts. This deactivation is associated with reduction of myofibroblast marker protein expression in vitro, including alpha smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA) and extracellular domain‐A (ED‐A) fibronectin. We hypothesize that Ski also acutely regulates MMP expression in cardiac MFB. While acute Ski overexpression in cardiac MFB in vitro was not associated with any change in intracellular MMP‐9 protein expression versus LacZ‐treated controls,exogenous Ski caused elevated MMP‐9 mRNA expression and increased MMP‐9 protein secretion versus controls. Zymographic analysis revealed increased MMP‐9‐specific gelatinase activity in myofibroblasts overexpressing Ski versus controls. Moreover, Ski expression was attended by reduced paxillin and focal adhesion kinase phosphorylation (FAK ‐ Tyr 397) versus controls. As myofibroblasts are hypersecretory and less motile relative to fibroblasts, Ski's reduction of paxillin and FAK expression may reflect the relative deactivation of myofibroblasts. Thus, in addition to its known antifibrotic effects, Ski overexpression elevates expression and extracellular secretion/release of MMP‐9 and thus may facilitate internal cytoskeletal remodeling as well as extracellular ECM components. Further, as acute TGF‐β1 treatment of primary cardiac MFB is known to cause rapid translocation of Ski to the nucleus, our data support an autoregulatory role for Ski in mediating cardiac ECM accumulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie Landry
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Morvarid S Kavosh
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Krista L Filomeno
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Sunil G Rattan
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Michael P Czubryt
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Ian M C Dixon
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
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17
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Shukla SK, Rafiq K. Proteasome biology and therapeutics in cardiac diseases. Transl Res 2019; 205:64-76. [PMID: 30342797 PMCID: PMC6372329 DOI: 10.1016/j.trsl.2018.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2018] [Revised: 08/30/2018] [Accepted: 09/25/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The ubiquitin proteasome system (UPS) is the major pathway for intracellular protein degradation in most organs, including the heart. UPS controls many fundamental biological processes such as cell cycle, cell division, immune responses, antigen presentation, apoptosis, and cell signaling. The UPS not only degrades substrates but also regulates activity of gene transcription at the post-transcription level. Emerging evidence suggests that impairment of UPS function is sufficient to cause a number of cardiac diseases, including heart failure, cardiomyopathies, hypertrophy, atrophy, ischemia-reperfusion, and atherosclerosis. Alterations in the expression of UPS components, changes in proteasomal peptidase activities and increased ubiquitinated and oxidized proteins have also been detected in diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM). However, the pathophysiological role of the UPS in DCM has not been examined. Recently, in vitro and in vivo studies have proven highly valuable in assessing effects of various stressors on the UPS and, in some cases, suggesting a causal link between defective protein clearance and disease phenotypes in different cardiac diseases, including DCM. Translation of these findings to human disease can be greatly strengthened by corroboration of discoveries from experimental model systems using human heart tissue from well-defined patient populations. This review will summarize the general role of the UPS in different cardiac diseases, with major focus on DCM, and on recent advances in therapeutic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanket Kumar Shukla
- Department of Medicine, Center for Translational Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Khadija Rafiq
- Department of Medicine, Center for Translational Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
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18
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Rezaii M, Oryan S, Javeri A. Curcumin nanoparticles incorporated collagen-chitosan scaffold promotes cutaneous wound healing through regulation of TGF-β1/Smad7 gene expression. MATERIALS SCIENCE & ENGINEERING. C, MATERIALS FOR BIOLOGICAL APPLICATIONS 2019; 98:347-357. [PMID: 30813036 DOI: 10.1016/j.msec.2018.12.143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2018] [Revised: 12/07/2018] [Accepted: 12/31/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Wound healing is a tissue regeneration process which is regulated by a complex interaction of multiple growth factors, primarily transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1). The natural antagonist of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling is Smad7. It has been shown that curcumin (an antioxidant) and some biocompatible polymers like collagen and chitosan enhance cutaneous wound healing. In this study, three scaffolds made with curcumin-nanoparticles (CNs) and using collagen and chitosan with various ratios of collagen and chitosan were used for evaluation of wound healing activity on full thickness punch wound model using male Wistar rats. The wound healing in terms of histology and morphology was assessed at different time points post-wounding and the expression pattern of TGF-β1 and Smad7 was studied. CNs incorporated collagen-chitosan scaffolds significantly accelerated the healing of the wounds, as revealed by a significant change in the wound area, the epidermal thickness, the density of granulation tissue, the number of new vessels and a higher collagen content compared to the control group. However, blank collagen-chitosan scaffolds did not cause any significant change in the above parameters, except for epidermal thickness compared to the control group. Incorporation of CNs into collagen-chitosan scaffold changed expression of TGF-β1 and Smad7 mRNAs in the healing wounds compared to the control group. Indeed, blank collagen-chitosan scaffold did not cause any significant up-regulation either in TGF-β1 mRNA expression or in Smad7 mRNA expression (except for day 3 post-wounding), compared to the control group. This study indicates that topical application of CNs-incorporated collagen-chitosan scaffold promotes wound healing via a regulatory effect on the expression of TGF-β1 and Smad7 mRNA in the cutaneous wound-healing model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malakeh Rezaii
- Department of Animal Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Shahrbanoo Oryan
- Department of Animal Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Arash Javeri
- Department of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Institute for Medical Biotechnology, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (NIGEB), Tehran, Iran
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19
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Zeglinski MR, Moghadam AR, Ande SR, Sheikholeslami K, Mokarram P, Sepehri Z, Rokni H, Mohtaram NK, Poorebrahim M, Masoom A, Toback M, Sareen N, Saravanan S, Jassal DS, Hashemi M, Marzban H, Schaafsma D, Singal P, Wigle JT, Czubryt MP, Akbari M, Dixon IM, Ghavami S, Gordon JW, Dhingra S. Myocardial Cell Signaling During the Transition to Heart Failure. Compr Physiol 2018; 9:75-125. [DOI: 10.1002/cphy.c170053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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20
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The Functional Role of Zinc Finger E Box-Binding Homeobox 2 (Zeb2) in Promoting Cardiac Fibroblast Activation. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19103207. [PMID: 30336567 PMCID: PMC6214125 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19103207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2018] [Revised: 09/28/2018] [Accepted: 10/05/2018] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Following cardiac injury, fibroblasts are activated and are termed as myofibroblasts, and these cells are key players in extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling and fibrosis, itself a primary contributor to heart failure. Nutraceuticals have been shown to blunt cardiac fibrosis in both in-vitro and in-vivo studies. However, nutraceuticals have had conflicting results in clinical trials, and there are no effective therapies currently available to specifically target cardiac fibrosis. We have previously shown that expression of the zinc finger E box-binding homeobox 2 (Zeb2) transcription factor increases as fibroblasts are activated. We now show that Zeb2 plays a critical role in fibroblast activation. Zeb2 overexpression in primary rat cardiac fibroblasts is associated with significantly increased expression of embryonic smooth muscle myosin heavy chain (SMemb), ED-A fibronectin and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA). We found that Zeb2 was highly expressed in activated myofibroblast nuclei but not in the nuclei of inactive fibroblasts. Moreover, ectopic Zeb2 expression in myofibroblasts resulted in a significantly less migratory phenotype with elevated contractility, which are characteristics of mature myofibroblasts. Knockdown of Zeb2 with siRNA in primary myofibroblasts did not alter the expression of myofibroblast markers, which may indicate that Zeb2 is functionally redundant with other profibrotic transcription factors. These findings add to our understanding of the contribution of Zeb2 to the mechanisms controlling cardiac fibroblast activation.
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21
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Wang XL, Zhao YY, Sun L, Shi Y, Li ZQ, Zhao XD, Xu CG, Ji HG, Wang M, Xu WR, Zhu W. Exosomes derived from human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells improve myocardial repair via upregulation of Smad7. Int J Mol Med 2018; 41:3063-3072. [PMID: 29484378 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2018.3496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2017] [Accepted: 02/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
It has been previously reported that exosomes derived from human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hucMSC)‑exosomes exhibit cardioprotective effects on the rat acute myocardial infarction (AMI) models and cardiomyocyte hypoxia injury models in vitro, however the exact mechanisms involved require further investigation. The present study aimed to investigate the repair effects of hucMSC‑exosomes on myocardial injury via the regulation of mothers against decapentaplegic homolog 7 (Smad7) expression. Compared with sham or normoxia groups (in vivo and in vitro, respectively), western blotting demonstrated that Smad7 expression was significantly decreased in the borderline area of infraction myocardium and in H9C2(2‑1) cells following hypoxia‑induced injury. Additionally, microRNA (miR)‑125b‑5p expression was markedly increased using reverse transcription‑quantitative polymerase chain reaction, but was reversed by hucMSC‑exosomes. Trypan blue staining and lactate dehydrogenase release detection demonstrated that cell injury was significantly increased in the AMI + PBS and hypoxia group compared with in the sham and normoxia groups and was inhibited by hucMSC‑exosomes. A dual luciferase reporter gene assay confirmed that Smad7 is a target gene of miR‑125b‑5p. In addition, miR‑125b‑5p mimics promoted H9C2(2‑1) cell injury following 48 h exposure to hypoxia. Downregulation of Smad7 expression under hypoxia was increased by miR‑125b‑5p mimics compared with the mimic negative control, and hucMSC‑exosomes partially alleviated this phenomenon. In conclusion, hucMSC‑exosomes may promote Smad7 expression by inhibiting miR‑125b‑5p to increase myocardial repair. The present study may provide a potential therapeutic approach to improve myocardial repair following AMI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin-Long Wang
- School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212013, P.R. China
| | - Yuan-Yuan Zhao
- School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212013, P.R. China
| | - Li Sun
- School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212013, P.R. China
| | - Yu Shi
- School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212013, P.R. China
| | - Zhu-Qian Li
- School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212013, P.R. China
| | - Xiang-Dong Zhao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Zhenjiang Provincial Blood Center, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212000, P.R. China
| | - Chang-Gen Xu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Zhenjiang Provincial Blood Center, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212000, P.R. China
| | - Hong-Ge Ji
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Zhenjiang Provincial Blood Center, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212000, P.R. China
| | - Mei Wang
- School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212013, P.R. China
| | - Wen-Rong Xu
- School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212013, P.R. China
| | - Wei Zhu
- School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212013, P.R. China
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22
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Laskaratos F, Rombouts K, Caplin M, Toumpanakis C, Thirlwell C, Mandair D. Neuroendocrine tumors and fibrosis: An unsolved mystery? Cancer 2017; 123:4770-4790. [DOI: 10.1002/cncr.31079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2017] [Revised: 09/02/2017] [Accepted: 09/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Krista Rombouts
- Regenerative Medicine and Fibrosis Group, Institute for Liver and Digestive HealthUniversity College London, Royal Free HospitalLondon United Kingdom
| | - Martyn Caplin
- Neuroendocrine Tumour Unit, ENETS Centre of ExcellenceRoyal Free HospitalLondon United Kingdom
| | - Christos Toumpanakis
- Neuroendocrine Tumour Unit, ENETS Centre of ExcellenceRoyal Free HospitalLondon United Kingdom
| | - Christina Thirlwell
- Neuroendocrine Tumour Unit, ENETS Centre of ExcellenceRoyal Free HospitalLondon United Kingdom
- University College London Cancer InstituteUniversity College LondonLondon United Kingdom
| | - Dalvinder Mandair
- Neuroendocrine Tumour Unit, ENETS Centre of ExcellenceRoyal Free HospitalLondon United Kingdom
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23
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Zhang WW, Bai F, Wang J, Zheng RH, Yang LW, James EA, Zhao ZQ. Edaravone inhibits pressure overload-induced cardiac fibrosis and dysfunction by reducing expression of angiotensin II AT1 receptor. DRUG DESIGN DEVELOPMENT AND THERAPY 2017; 11:3019-3033. [PMID: 29081650 PMCID: PMC5652925 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s144807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Angiotensin II (Ang II) is known to be involved in the progression of ventricular dysfunction and heart failure by eliciting cardiac fibrosis. The purpose of this study was to demonstrate whether treatment with an antioxidant compound, edaravone, reduces cardiac fibrosis and improves ventricular function by inhibiting Ang II AT1 receptor. The study was conducted in a rat model of transverse aortic constriction (TAC). In control, rats were subjected to 8 weeks of TAC. In treated rats, edaravone (10 mg/kg/day) or Ang II AT1 receptor blocker, telmisartan (10 mg/kg/day) was administered by intraperitoneal injection or gastric gavage, respectively, during TAC. Relative to the animals with TAC, edaravone reduced myocardial malonaldehyde level and increased superoxide dismutase activity. Protein level of the AT1 receptor was reduced and the AT2 receptor was upregulated, as evidenced by the reduced ratio of AT1 over AT2 receptor (0.57±0.2 vs 3.16±0.39, p<0.05) and less locally expressed AT1 receptor in the myocardium. Furthermore, the protein level of angiotensin converting enzyme 2 was upregulated. In coincidence with these changes, edaravone significantly decreased the populations of macrophages and myofibroblasts in the myocardium, which were accompanied by reduced levels of transforming growth factor beta 1 and Smad2/3. Collagen I synthesis was inhibited and collagen-rich fibrosis was attenuated. Relative to the TAC group, cardiac systolic function was preserved, as shown by increased left ventricular systolic pressure (204±51 vs 110±19 mmHg, p<0.05) and ejection fraction (82%±3% vs 60%±5%, p<0.05). Treatment with telmisartan provided a comparable level of protection as compared with edaravone in all the parameters measured. Taken together, edaravone treatment ameliorates cardiac fibrosis and improves left ventricular function in the pressure overload rat model, potentially via suppressing the AT1 receptor-mediated signaling pathways. These data indicate that edaravone might be selected in combination with other existing drugs in preventing progression of cardiac dysfunction in heart failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Wei Zhang
- Department of Physiology, Shanxi Medical University.,Department of Anesthesiology, Shanxi Provincial People's Hospital, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Feng Bai
- Department of Physiology, Shanxi Medical University
| | - Jin Wang
- Department of Physiology, Shanxi Medical University
| | | | - Li-Wang Yang
- Department of Physiology, Shanxi Medical University
| | | | - Zhi-Qing Zhao
- Department of Physiology, Shanxi Medical University.,Department of Basic Biomedical Sciences, Mercer University School of Medicine, Savannah, GA, USA
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Du L, Qin M, Yi Y, Chen X, Jiang W, Zhou L, Zhang D, Xu K, Yang Y, Li C, Liu Y, Liu X, Duan SZ. Eplerenone Prevents Atrial Fibrosis via the TGF-β Signaling Pathway. Cardiology 2017; 138:55-62. [PMID: 28571007 DOI: 10.1159/000471918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2017] [Accepted: 03/22/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Eplerenone (EPL), an antagonist of the mineralocorticoid receptor, is beneficial for atrial fibrillation and atrial fibrosis. However, the underlying mechanism remains less well known. We aimed to investigate the effect of EPL on atrial fibrosis using a mouse with selective atrial fibrosis and to explore the underlying mechanisms. METHODS EPL-treated MHC-TGFcys33ser transgenic mice that have selective atrial fibrosis (Tx+EPL mice), as well as control mice, were used for in vivo studies including histological analyses, Western blotting, and qRT-PCR studies. TGF-β1-stimulated atrial fibroblasts were treated with EPL or vehicle for the in vitro studies including Western blotting and qRT-PCR studies. In addition, Smad7 siRNA was used to knock down Smad7. RESULTS EPL inhibited atrial fibrosis in the Tx mice. In addition, EPL suppressed the expression of fibrosis-related molecules induced by TGF-β1 in vivo and in vitro. This occurred in concert with a downregulation of Smad7 protein expression and an upregulation of p-Smad2/3 protein expression. In addition, knockdown of Smad7 by siRNA abolished the protective roles of EPL. CONCLUSIONS EPL inhibited atrial fibrosis in Tx mice. The underlying mechanism may involve increased protein expression of Smad7, which enhances the inhibitory feedback regulation of TGF-β1/Smad signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lili Du
- Department of Cardiology, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
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Expression of pro-fibrotic and anti-fibrotic molecules in dimethylnitrosamine-induced hepatic fibrosis. Pathol Res Pract 2016; 213:58-65. [PMID: 27894619 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2016.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2016] [Revised: 09/27/2016] [Accepted: 11/08/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatic fibrosis is characterized by a progressive accumulation of fibrillar extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins, produced by activated myofibroblasts which are modulated by both profibrotic and antifibrotic factors. OBJECTIVE To evaluate in vivo the expression of pro-fibrotic molecules like avβ6 integrin, transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), Smad3, connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) and mammalian target of Rapamycin (mTOR), as well as anti-fibrotic peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPARγ) in an experimental model of chronic hepatitis-associated fibrosis induced by intraperitoneal administration of dimethylnitrosamine (DMN) in mice. METHODS Chronic hepatitis was induced in 12 Smad3 wild-type (WT) and 12 knock-out (KO) mice by intraperitoneal DMN administration. Histological, morphometric and immunohistochemical analyses using α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), collagen types I-III, TGF-β1, Smad3, avβ6 integrin, CTGF, mTOR and PPARγ antibodies were performed. RESULTS The liver of DMN-treated Smad3 WT mice showed a higher degree of hepatic accumulation of connective tissue compared to KO mice. The expression of α-SMA, collagen I-III and CTGF was increased in Smad3 WT compared to KO mice treated with DMN, associated with a concomitant up-regulation of avβ6, TGFβ, Smad3, and mTOR and a reduction in PPARγ expression. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest a possible interaction between pro-fibrotic and anti-fibrotic molecules in the development of hepatic fibrosis.
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Dong H, Dong S, Zhang L, Gao X, Lv G, Chen W, Shao S. MicroRNA-214 exerts a Cardio-protective effect by inhibition of fibrosis. Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2016; 299:1348-57. [PMID: 27357906 DOI: 10.1002/ar.23396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2015] [Revised: 03/24/2016] [Accepted: 03/30/2016] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
The miRNAs play important roles in regulating myocardial fibrosis. The purpose of this study was to determine the potential roles of microRNA-214 (miR-214) in cardiac fibrosis in vitro and in vivo. In vitro experiment, Ang II-induced cardiac fibroblasts (CFBs) are transfected with pre-miR-214, anti-miR-214 and their oligo controls. Gene expression was checked by Quantitative realtime-PCR (qRT-PCR) and western blotting. In the present experiment, compared with controls, expressions of collagen type I (COL I), collagen type III (COL III), transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1, and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinase (TIMP)-1 were all increased, but matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-1 was reduced in CFB by Ang II treatment at both mRNA and protein levels, and these alterations were found reversed by miR-214 transfection. In vivo, an anterior transmural acute myocardial infarction (AMI) was created by occlusion of the left anterior descending coronary artery after Ad-pre-miR-214, Ad-anti-miR-214 or Ad-GFP was delivered separately. Four weeks after AMI, protein contents of COL I, COL III and TGF-β1 in tissue from border area were found increased after AMI, but impaired by overexpression of miR-214. While the expression of MMP-1 was increased by miR-214 stimulation but decreased by miR-214 inhibition. These results suggested that miR-214 exerts cardio-protective effects by inhibition of fibrosis and the inhibitory effect involves TGF-β1 suppression and MMP-1/TIMP-1 regulation. Anat Rec, 299:1348-1357, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua Dong
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, China
| | - Shimin Dong
- Department of Emergency, the 3rd Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050051, China
| | - Lisi Zhang
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, China
| | - Xueping Gao
- Department of Emergency, the 3rd Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050051, China
| | - Guangwei Lv
- Department of Emergency, the 3rd Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050051, China
| | - Wei Chen
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, China
| | - Suxia Shao
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, China.
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Bai T, Wang F, Mellen N, Zheng Y, Cai L. Diabetic cardiomyopathy: role of the E3 ubiquitin ligase. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2016; 310:E473-83. [PMID: 26732687 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00467.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2015] [Accepted: 12/29/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) is the leading cause of mortality in diabetes. As the number of cases of diabetes continues to rise, it is urgent to develop new strategies to protect against DCM, which is characterized by cardiac hypertrophy, increased apoptosis, fibrosis, and altered insulin metabolism. The E3 ubiquitin ligases (E3s), one component of the ubiquitin-proteasome system, play vital roles in all of the features of DCM listed above. They also modulate the activity of several transcription factors involved in the pathogenesis of DCM. In addition, the E3s degrade both insulin receptor and insulin receptor substrates and also regulate insulin gene transcription, leading to insulin resistance and insulin deficiency. Therefore, the E3s may be a driving force for DCM. This review summarizes currently available studies to analyze the roles of the E3s in DCM, enriches our knowledge of how DCM develops, and provides a novel strategy to protect heart from diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Bai
- Cardiovascular Center, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China; Kosair Children's Hospital Research Institute, Departments of Pediatrics and Radiation Oncology, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky
| | - Fan Wang
- Internal Medicine, People's Hospital of Jilin Province, Changchun, China; and
| | - Nicholas Mellen
- Kosair Children's Hospital Research Institute, Departments of Pediatrics and Radiation Oncology, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky
| | - Yang Zheng
- Cardiovascular Center, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China;
| | - Lu Cai
- Kosair Children's Hospital Research Institute, Departments of Pediatrics and Radiation Oncology, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky
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Role of Transforming Growth Factor-β1 and Smads Signaling Pathway in Intrauterine Adhesion. Mediators Inflamm 2016; 2016:4158287. [PMID: 26997760 PMCID: PMC4779532 DOI: 10.1155/2016/4158287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2015] [Revised: 01/19/2016] [Accepted: 01/26/2016] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of the study was to evaluate the role of Smad3, Smad7, and TGF-β1 in intrauterine adhesion (IUA) patients and experimental rabbit models. 60 IUA patients, 30 control participants, and 18 female rabbits were enrolled in this study. We found that the plasma concentrations and protein expressions of TGF-β1 were significantly increased in patients and experimental rabbits compared to those in controls (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the mRNA and protein expression levels of Smad3 were significantly elevated, while Smad7 level was markedly decreased in the patients and experimental rabbits compared with controls (P < 0.05). This altered ratio recommended that IUA was positively correlated to the mRNA and protein expression levels of Smad3, Smad7, and TGF-β1 in blood and uterine tissue. Moreover, we used the specific inhibitor of Smad3 (SIS3) in experimental rabbit. SIS3 obviously reduced the mRNA and protein expression of smad3 and TGF-β1, while it increased Smad7 expression in the treatment groups as compared with IUA rabbits (P < 0.05). Our study suggested that TGF-β1/Smad3/smad7 is a major pathway which plays an important role in the regulation of the IUA and specific inhibitor of Smad3 (SIS3) may provide a new therapeutic strategy for IUA.
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Zeglinski MR, Roche P, Hnatowich M, Jassal DS, Wigle JT, Czubryt MP, Dixon IMC. TGFβ1 regulates Scleraxis expression in primary cardiac myofibroblasts by a Smad-independent mechanism. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2016; 310:H239-49. [DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00584.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2015] [Accepted: 11/10/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
In cardiac wound healing following myocardial infarction (MI), relatively inactive resident cardiac fibroblasts phenoconvert to hypersynthetic/secretory myofibroblasts that produce large quantities of extracellular matrix (ECM) and fibrillar collagen proteins. Our laboratory and others have identified TGFβ1 as being a persistent stimulus in the chronic and inappropriate wound healing phase that is marked by hypertrophic scarring and eventual stiffening of the entire myocardium, ultimately leading to the pathogenesis of heart failure following MI. Ski is a potent negative regulator of TGFβ/Smad signaling with known antifibrotic effects. Conversely, Scleraxis is a potent profibrotic basic helix-loop-helix transcription factor that stimulates fibrillar collagen expression. We hypothesize that TGFβ1 induces Scleraxis expression by a novel Smad-independent pathway. Our data support the hypothesis that Scleraxis expression is induced by TGFβ1 through a Smad-independent pathway in the cardiac myofibroblast. Specifically, we demonstrate that TGFβ1 stimulates p42/44 (Erk1/2) kinases, which leads to increased Scleraxis expression. Inhibition of MEK1/2 using U0126 led to a sequential temporal reduction of phospho-p42/44 and subsequent Scleraxis expression. We also found that adenoviral Ski expression in primary myofibroblasts caused a significant repression of endogenous Scleraxis expression at both the mRNA and protein levels. Thus we have identified a novel TGFβ1-driven, Smad-independent, signaling cascade that may play an important role in regulating the fibrotic response in activated cardiac myofibroblasts following cardiac injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew R. Zeglinski
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Patricia Roche
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Mark Hnatowich
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Davinder S. Jassal
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Jeffrey T. Wigle
- Department of Biochemistry and Medical Genetics, Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada; and
| | - Michael P. Czubryt
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Ian M. C. Dixon
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
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Piersma B, Bank RA, Boersema M. Signaling in Fibrosis: TGF-β, WNT, and YAP/TAZ Converge. Front Med (Lausanne) 2015. [PMID: 26389119 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2015.00059.] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic organ injury leads to fibrosis and eventually organ failure. Fibrosis is characterized by excessive synthesis, remodeling, and contraction of extracellular matrix produced by myofibroblasts. Myofibroblasts are the key cells in the pathophysiology of fibrotic disorders and their differentiation can be triggered by multiple stimuli. To develop anti-fibrotic therapies, it is of paramount importance to understand the molecular basis of the signaling pathways contributing to the activation and maintenance of myofibroblasts. Several signal transduction pathways, such as transforming growth factor (TGF)-β, Wingless/Int (WNT), and more recently yes-associated protein 1 (YAP)/transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ) signaling, have been linked to the pathophysiology of fibrosis. Activation of the TGF-β1-induced SMAD complex results in the upregulation of genes important for myofibroblast function. Similarly, WNT-stabilized β-catenin translocates to the nucleus and initiates transcription of its target genes. YAP and TAZ are two transcriptional co-activators from the Hippo signaling pathway that also rely on nuclear translocation for their functioning. These three signal transduction pathways have little molecular similarity but do share one principle: the cytosolic/nuclear regulation of its transcriptional activators. Past research on these pathways often focused on the isolated cascades without taking other signaling pathways into account. Recent developments show that parts of these pathways converge into an intricate network that governs the activation and maintenance of the myofibroblast phenotype. In this review, we discuss the current understanding on the signal integration between the TGF-β, WNT, and YAP/TAZ pathways in the development of organ fibrosis. Taking a network-wide view on signal transduction will provide a better understanding on the complex and versatile processes that underlie the pathophysiology of fibrotic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bram Piersma
- Matrix Research Group, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen , Groningen , Netherlands
| | - Ruud A Bank
- Matrix Research Group, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen , Groningen , Netherlands
| | - Miriam Boersema
- Matrix Research Group, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen , Groningen , Netherlands
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Piersma B, Bank RA, Boersema M. Signaling in Fibrosis: TGF-β, WNT, and YAP/TAZ Converge. Front Med (Lausanne) 2015; 2:59. [PMID: 26389119 PMCID: PMC4558529 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2015.00059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 318] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2015] [Accepted: 08/13/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic organ injury leads to fibrosis and eventually organ failure. Fibrosis is characterized by excessive synthesis, remodeling, and contraction of extracellular matrix produced by myofibroblasts. Myofibroblasts are the key cells in the pathophysiology of fibrotic disorders and their differentiation can be triggered by multiple stimuli. To develop anti-fibrotic therapies, it is of paramount importance to understand the molecular basis of the signaling pathways contributing to the activation and maintenance of myofibroblasts. Several signal transduction pathways, such as transforming growth factor (TGF)-β, Wingless/Int (WNT), and more recently yes-associated protein 1 (YAP)/transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ) signaling, have been linked to the pathophysiology of fibrosis. Activation of the TGF-β1-induced SMAD complex results in the upregulation of genes important for myofibroblast function. Similarly, WNT-stabilized β-catenin translocates to the nucleus and initiates transcription of its target genes. YAP and TAZ are two transcriptional co-activators from the Hippo signaling pathway that also rely on nuclear translocation for their functioning. These three signal transduction pathways have little molecular similarity but do share one principle: the cytosolic/nuclear regulation of its transcriptional activators. Past research on these pathways often focused on the isolated cascades without taking other signaling pathways into account. Recent developments show that parts of these pathways converge into an intricate network that governs the activation and maintenance of the myofibroblast phenotype. In this review, we discuss the current understanding on the signal integration between the TGF-β, WNT, and YAP/TAZ pathways in the development of organ fibrosis. Taking a network-wide view on signal transduction will provide a better understanding on the complex and versatile processes that underlie the pathophysiology of fibrotic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bram Piersma
- Matrix Research Group, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen , Groningen , Netherlands
| | - Ruud A Bank
- Matrix Research Group, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen , Groningen , Netherlands
| | - Miriam Boersema
- Matrix Research Group, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen , Groningen , Netherlands
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Preservation of Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Level Attenuates Angiotensin II-Induced Tissue Fibrosis by Altering AT1/AT2 Receptor Expression and Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 Activity in Rat Heart. Cardiovasc Drugs Ther 2015; 29:243-55. [DOI: 10.1007/s10557-015-6592-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
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Abstract
Tubulointerstitial fibrosis and glomerulosclerosis, are a major feature of end stage chronic kidney disease (CKD), characterised by an excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins. Transforming growth factor beta-1 (TGF-β1) is a cytokine with an important role in many steps of renal fibrosis such as myofibroblast activation and proliferation, ECM protein synthesis and inflammatory cell infiltration. Endoglin is a TGF-β co-receptor that modulates TGF-β responses in different cell types. In numerous cells types, such as mesangial cells or myoblasts, endoglin regulates negatively TGF-β-induced ECM protein expression. However, recently it has been demonstrated that 'in vivo' endoglin promotes fibrotic responses. Furthermore, several studies have demonstrated an increase of endoglin expression in experimental models of renal fibrosis in the kidney and other tissues. Nevertheless, the role of endoglin in renal fibrosis development is unclear and a question arises: Does endoglin protect against renal fibrosis or promotes its development? The purpose of this review is to critically analyse the recent knowledge relating to endoglin and renal fibrosis. Knowledge of endoglin role in this pathology is necessary to consider endoglin as a possible therapeutic target against renal fibrosis.
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Minullina IR, Alexeyeva NP, Anisimov SV, Puzanov MV, Kozlova SN, Sviryaev YV, Zaritskey AY, Shlyakhto EV. Transcriptional changes in bone marrow stromal cells of patients with heart failure. Cell Cycle 2014; 13:1495-500. [PMID: 24626177 DOI: 10.4161/cc.28472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
It is proposed that patients with heart failure may have not only myocardial dysfunction, but also a reduced regenerative capacity of stem cells. However, very little is known about bone marrow stromal cell (BMSC) characteristics in heart failure and its comorbidities (obesity and/or diabetes). We hypothesized that metabolic alterations associated with the latter will be reflected in altered expression of key genes related to angiogenesis, inflammation, and tissue remodeling in patient-derived BMSCs. We found that BMSCs of heart failure patients with lower body mass index have enhanced expression of genes involved in extracellular matrix remodeling. In particular, body mass index<30 was associated with upregulated expression of genes encoding collagen type I, proteases and protease activators (MMP2, MMP14, uPA), and regulatory molecules (CTGF, ITGβ5, SMAD7, SNAIL1). In contrast, these transcript levels did not differ significantly between BMSCs from obese heart failure patients and healthy subjects. Comorbidities (including obesity and diabetes) are known to play role in heart failure progression rate and outcome of the disease. We thus suggest that key molecular targets identified in this study should become the target of the subsequent focused studies. In the future, these targets may find some use in the clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Izida R Minullina
- Federal Almazov Medical Research Centre; St. Petersburg, Russian Federation
| | - Nina P Alexeyeva
- Federal Almazov Medical Research Centre; St. Petersburg, Russian Federation; Permanent affiliation: Saint Petersburg State University; St. Petersburg, Russian Federation
| | - Sergey V Anisimov
- Federal Almazov Medical Research Centre; St. Petersburg, Russian Federation
| | - Maxim V Puzanov
- Federal Almazov Medical Research Centre; St. Petersburg, Russian Federation
| | - Svetlana N Kozlova
- Federal Almazov Medical Research Centre; St. Petersburg, Russian Federation
| | - Yurii V Sviryaev
- Federal Almazov Medical Research Centre; St. Petersburg, Russian Federation
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Aguilar H, Fricovsky E, Ihm S, Schimke M, Maya-Ramos L, Aroonsakool N, Ceballos G, Dillmann W, Villarreal F, Ramirez-Sanchez I. Role for high-glucose-induced protein O-GlcNAcylation in stimulating cardiac fibroblast collagen synthesis. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2014; 306:C794-804. [PMID: 24553187 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00251.2013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Excess enzyme-mediated protein O-GlcNAcylation is known to occur with diabetes mellitus. A characteristic of diabetic cardiomyopathy is the development of myocardial fibrosis. The role that enhanced protein O-GlcNAcylation plays in modulating the phenotype of cardiac fibroblasts (CF) is unknown. To address this issue, rat CF were cultured in normal glucose (NG; 5 mM glucose) or high-glucose (HG; 25 mM) media for 48 h. Results demonstrate that CF cultured in HG have higher levels (~50%) of overall protein O-GlcNAcylation vs. NG cells. Key regulators of collagen synthesis such as transforming-growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), SMADs 2/3, and SMAD 7 protein levels, including those of arginase I and II, were altered, leading to increases in collagen levels. The nuclear transcription factor Sp1 and arginase II evidence excess O-GlcNAcylation in HG cells. Expression in CF of an adenovirus coding for the enzyme N-acetylglucosaminidase, which removes O-GlcNAc moieties from proteins, decreased Sp1 and arginase II O-GlcNAcylation and restored HG-induced perturbations in CF back to NG levels. These findings may have important pathophysiological implications for the development of diabetes-induced cardiac fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugo Aguilar
- Seccion de Posgrado, Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politecnico Nacional, Ciudad de Mexico, Mexico
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Overexpression of Smad7 suppressed ROS/MMP9-dependent collagen synthesis through regulation of heme oxygenase-1. Mol Biol Rep 2013; 40:5307-14. [PMID: 23661026 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-013-2631-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2012] [Accepted: 04/30/2013] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
We previously reported that AngiotensinII receptor blocker effectively inhibited TGF-β1-mediated epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition progress through regulating Smad7. However, the underlying mechanism by which Smad7 exerted in regulating MMP9 and fibrogenic response has not been fully elucidated. In the current study, we proved that NADPH p47(phox)-dependent reactive oxygen species (ROS) production contributed to MMP9 activation and collagen expression, which was suppressed by transfecting pcDNA3-Smad7 in cardiac fibroblasts. The effect of Smad7 overexpression on MMP9 activity and collagen expression was further reversed by adding H2O2 (10 μmol/L). In contrast, knockdown of Smad7 caused the enhanced collagen synthesis in cardiac fibroblasts, which was also reversed by treating cells with a ROS inhibitor, YCG063 (2 μmol/L). Further investigation showed that Smad7 regulated NADPH-mediated ROS production through activating Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1). Meanwhile, the intercellular level of bilirubin (product of hemin) and nitric oxide (NO) in cell supernatant were not significantly increased in cells treated with AngII or transfected with Smad7. Knockdown of HO-1 in Smad7-overexpressed cardiac fibroblasts or cells pretreated with SnPP IX, a competitive inhibitor of HO-1 activity, resulted in increased productions of ROS and NADPH p47(phox), and abolished the inhibitory effects of Smad7 on MMP9 activity and collagen expression. Our results indicated that HO-1 might be critically involved in Smad7-mediated regulation of MMP9 activity and fibrogenic genes expression via antagonizing the enhanced myocardial oxidative stress.
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He Y, Zhou X, Zheng X, Jiang X. Exogenous high-mobility group box 1 protein prevents postinfarction adverse myocardial remodeling through TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway. J Cell Biochem 2013; 114:1634-41. [PMID: 23355476 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.24505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2012] [Accepted: 01/10/2013] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yiyu He
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, PR China
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Wang NP, Wang ZF, Tootle S, Philip T, Zhao ZQ. Curcumin promotes cardiac repair and ameliorates cardiac dysfunction following myocardial infarction. Br J Pharmacol 2013; 167:1550-62. [PMID: 22823335 DOI: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2012.02109.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Curcumin, the natural yellow pigment extracted from the rhizomes of the plant curcuma longa, has been demonstrated to exhibit a variety of potent beneficial effects, acting as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic. In this study we tested the hypothesis that curcumin attenuates maladaptive cardiac repair and improves cardiac function after ischaemia and reperfusion by reducing degradation of extracellular matrix (ECM) and inhibiting synthesis of collagens via TGFβ/Smad-mediated signalling pathway. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Sprague-Dawley rats were subjected to 45 min of ischaemia followed by 7, 21 and 42 days of reperfusion respectively. Curcumin was fed orally at a dose of 150 mg·kg(-1) ·day(-1) only during reperfusion. KEY RESULTS Curcumin reduced the level of malondialdehyde, inhibited activity of MMPs, preserved ECM from degradation and attenuated collagen deposition, as it reduced the extent of collagen-rich scar and increased mass of viable myocardium. In addition to reducing collagen synthesis and fibrosis in the ischaemic/reperfused myocardium, curcumin significantly down-regulated the expression of TGFβ1 and phospho-Smad2/3, and up-regulated Smad7 and also increased the population of α-smooth muscle actin expressing myofibroblasts within the infarcted myocardium relative to the control. Echocardiography showed it significantly improved left ventricular end-diastolic volume, stroke volume and ejection fraction. The wall thickness of the infarcted middle anterior septum in the curcumin group was also greater than that in the control group. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS Dietary curcumin is effective at inhibiting maladaptive cardiac repair and preserving cardiac function after ischaemia and reperfusion. Curcumin has potential as a treatment for patients who have had a heart attack.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning-Ping Wang
- Cardiovascular Research Laboratory, Mercer University School of Medicine, Savannah, GA 31404, USA
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Dai Y, Khaidakov M, Wang X, Ding Z, Su W, Price E, Palade P, Chen M, Mehta JL. MicroRNAs involved in the regulation of postischemic cardiac fibrosis. Hypertension 2013; 61:751-6. [PMID: 23381794 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.111.00654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yao Dai
- Cardiovascular Division, UA Little Rock, AR 72212, USA.
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Salot S, Gude R. MTA1-mediated transcriptional repression of SMAD7 in breast cancer cell lines. Eur J Cancer 2013; 49:492-9. [PMID: 22841502 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejca.2012.06.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2011] [Revised: 06/11/2012] [Accepted: 06/22/2012] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Metastasis is a complex process facilitated by the action of several genes. Metastasis associated 1 (MTA1) gene is one such gene which assists the process of metastasis by regulating several molecular targets. MTA1 acts as part of a nucleosome remodelling and histone deacetylation complex, which is involved in transcriptional regulation. Expression of MTA1 has been shown to be closely correlated with aggressiveness in several types of cancers, including breast cancer. In the present study we show that MTA1 regulates SMAD7, a component of Transforming growth factor beta (TGFbeta) signalling. TGFbeta signals are transduced to the nucleus by the Smad family of proteins, which includes Smad7, an inhibitory SMAD, which acts as a negative regulator of TGFbeta. On knockdown of MTA1, SMAD7 expression increases. Treating cells with a histone deacetylase inhibitor also increases SMAD7 expression. MTA1 is recruited to SMAD7 promoter region. SMAD7 inhibits activation of SMAD2 and SMAD3 and we show that the levels of these active SMAD proteins are decreased in cells expressing shRNA against MTA1. We further show that on MTA1 knockdown, the expression of downstream targets of SMAD7 is decreased. MTA1 thus appears to regulate a key inhibitor of TGFbeta signalling, SMAD7. By regulating molecules like SMAD7 MTA1 might assist the process of tumourigenesis and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shimul Salot
- Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research and Education in Cancer, Tata Memorial Centre, Kharghar, Navi Mumbai, India.
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Papangeli I, Scambler PJ. Tbx1 genetically interacts with the transforming growth factor-β/bone morphogenetic protein inhibitor Smad7 during great vessel remodeling. Circ Res 2012; 112:90-102. [PMID: 23011393 DOI: 10.1161/circresaha.112.270223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE Growth and remodeling of the pharyngeal arch arteries are vital for the development of a mature great vessel system. Dysmorphogenesis of the fourth arch arteries can result in interruption of the aortic arch type B, typically found in DiGeorge syndrome. Tbx1 haploinsufficient embryos, which model DiGeorge syndrome, display fourth arch artery defects during formation of the vessels. Recovery from such defects is a documented yet unexplained phenotype in Tbx1 haploinsufficiency. OBJECTIVE To understand the nature of fourth arch artery growth recovery in Tbx1 haploinsufficiency and its underlying genetic control. METHODS AND RESULTS We categorized vessel phenotypes of Tbx1 heterozygotes as hypoplastic or aplastic at the conclusion of pharyngeal artery formation and compared these against the frequency of vessel defects scored at the end of great vessel development. The frequency of hypoplastic vessels decreased during embryogenesis, whereas no reduction of vessel aplasia was seen, implying recovery is attributable to remodeling of hypoplastic vessels. We showed that Smad7, an inhibitory Smad within the transforming growth factor-β pathway, is regulated by Tbx1, is required for arch artery remodeling, and genetically interacts with Tbx1 in this process. Tbx1 and Tbx1;Smad7 haploinsufficiency affected several remodeling processes; however, concurrent haploinsufficiency particularly impacted on the earliest stage of vascular smooth muscle cell vessel coverage and subsequent fibronectin deposition. Conditional reconstitution of Smad7 with a Tbx1Cre driver indicated that the interaction between the 2 genes is cell autonomous. CONCLUSIONS Tbx1 acts upstream of Smad7 controlling vascular smooth muscle and extracellular matrix investment of the fourth arch artery.
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Elrashidy RA, Asker ME, Mohamed HE. Beneficial effects of pioglitazone against cardiovascular injury are enhanced by combination with aliskiren in a rat model of diabetic nephropathy. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012; 64:862-71. [PMID: 22571265 DOI: 10.1111/j.2042-7158.2012.01508.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Aliskiren is the first in a new class of orally active direct renin inhibitors, approved for the treatment of hypertension. However, the efficacy of aliskiren in diabetic cardiovascular complications remains to be defined. This study aimed to test the hypothesis that aliskiren may enhance the beneficial effects of pioglitazone against cardiovascular injury associated with diabetic nephropathy. METHODS Diabetic nephropathy was induced in rats by unilateral nephrectomy followed by streptozotocin injection. Diabetic nephropathic rats were orally given vehicle, pioglitazone, aliskiren, or combined pioglitazone and aliskiren for four weeks to compare their effects on cardiovascular injury, particularly myocardial fibrosis. KEY FINDINGS Pioglitazone treatment significantly attenuated cardiac lipid peroxidation, oxidative injury and myocardial fibrosis in diabetic nephropathic rats. This was associated with up-regulation of transforming growth factor-β1 and matrix metalloproteinase-2 genes, along with down-regulation of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-2 gene in cardiac tissue. The combination of aliskiren with pioglitazone exerted greater beneficial effect than monotherapy with either drug, on all the aforementioned parameters. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggested that aliskiren enhanced the protective effects of pioglitazone against myocardial fibrosis, in experimental diabetic nephropathy. Thus, the combination of aliskiren and pioglitazone may be a potential therapeutic strategy for cardiovascular injury associated with diabetic nephropathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rania A Elrashidy
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zagazig University, Sharkia Gov., Zagazig, Egypt.
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Losartan reduces trinitrobenzene sulphonic acid-induced colorectal fibrosis in rats. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF GASTROENTEROLOGY = JOURNAL CANADIEN DE GASTROENTEROLOGIE 2012; 26:33-9. [PMID: 22288068 DOI: 10.1155/2012/628268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intestinal fibrosis is a challenging clinical condition in several fibrostenosing enteropathies, particularly Crohn's disease. Currently, no effective preventive measures or medical therapies are available for intestinal fibrosis. Fibrosis, due to an abnormal accumulation of extracellular matrix proteins, is a chronic and progressive process mediated by cell⁄matrix⁄cytokine and growth factor interactions, but may be a reversible phenomenon. Of the several molecules regulating fibrogenesis, transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-b1) appears to play a pivotal role; it is strongly induced by the local activation of angiotensin II. The levels of both TGF-b1 and angiotensin II are elevated in fibrostenosing Crohn's disease. AIMS To evaluate the in vivo effect of losartan - an angiotensin II receptor antagonist - on the course of chronic colitis-associated fibrosis and on TGF-b1 expression. METHODS Colitis was induced by intrarectal instillation of trinitrobenzene sulphonic acid (TNBS) (15 mg⁄mL) while losartan was administered orally daily by gavage (7 mg⁄kg⁄day) for 21 days. Three groups of rats were evaluated: control (n=10); TNBS treated (n=10); and TNBS + losartan treated (n=10). Inflammation and fibrosis of the colon were evaluated by macro- and microscopic score analysis. Colonic TGF-b1 levels was measured using ELISA. RESULTS Twenty-one days after induction, losartan significantly improved the macro- and microscopic scores of fibrosis in the colonic wall and reduced TGF-b1 concentration. CONCLUSIONS Prophylactic oral administration of losartan reduces the colorectal fibrosis complicating the TNBS-induced chronic colitis, an effect that appears to be mediated by a downregulation of TGF-b1 expression.
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Huang XY, Chen CX, Zhang XM, Liu Y, Wu XM, Li YM. Effects of ethanolic extract from Radix Scrophulariae on ventricular remodeling in rats. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2012; 19:193-205. [PMID: 22035768 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2011.09.079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2011] [Revised: 08/22/2011] [Accepted: 09/28/2011] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To explore the effects of ethanolic extract of Radix Scrophulariae (EERS) on ventricular remodeling in rats. METHODS Rats with coronary artery ligation (CAL) were randomly assigned to 5 groups: CAL model; CAL plus 40 mg/kg captopril; CAL plus 60 mg/kg, 120 mg/kg, 240 mg/kg EERS. Sham operation rats were randomly assigned to 2 groups, sham-operated control and sham-operated plus 120 mg/kg EERS. The rats were orally administered with the corresponding drugs or drinking water for 14 weeks. The left ventricular weight index (LVWI) and heart weight index (HWI) were determined. Myocardium tissue was stained with hematoxylin and eosin or picric acid/Sirius red for cardiomyocyte cross-section area or collagen content measurements respectively. The concentrations of hydroxyproline (Hyp), matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2), angiotensin II (Ang II), aldosterone (ALD), endothelin 1 (ET-1), atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) and renin activity (RA) in myocardium or serum were determined. Real-time RT-PCR was used to detect the mRNA expressions of angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE), ET-1 and ANP. RESULTS EERS could significantly reduce the LVWI and HWI, decrease heart tissue concentrations of Hyp and collagen deposition, diminish cardiomyocyte cross-section area, reduce the tissue level of Ang II, ET-1, ANP and TNF-α. EERS could also down regulate the mRNA expression of ACE, ET-1 and ANP in myocardium. CONCLUSION EERS attenuates ventricular remodeling. The mechanisms may be related to restraining the excessive activation of RAAS, TNF-α and modulating some gene expressions associated with cardiac hypertrophy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Yan Huang
- Department of Pharmacology, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1200 Cailun Road, Shanghai 201203, China
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Elrashidy RA, Asker ME, Mohamed HE. Pioglitazone Attenuates Cardiac Fibrosis and Hypertrophy in a Rat Model of Diabetic Nephropathy. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol Ther 2012; 17:324-33. [DOI: 10.1177/1074248411431581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Rania A. Elrashidy
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Mervat E. Asker
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Hoda E. Mohamed
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
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Toma I, McCaffrey TA. Transforming growth factor-β and atherosclerosis: interwoven atherogenic and atheroprotective aspects. Cell Tissue Res 2012; 347:155-75. [PMID: 21626289 PMCID: PMC4915479 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-011-1189-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2011] [Accepted: 05/06/2011] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Age-related progression of cardiovascular disease is by far the largest health problem in the US and involves vascular damage, progressive vascular fibrosis and the accumulation of lipid-rich atherosclerotic lesions. Advanced lesions can restrict flow to key organs and can trigger occlusive thrombosis resulting in a stroke or myocardial infarction. Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) is a major orchestrator of the fibroproliferative response to tissue damage. In the early stages of repair, TGF-β is released from platelets and activated from matrix reservoirs; it then stimulates the chemotaxis of repair cells, modulates immunity and inflammation and induces matrix production. At later stages, it negatively regulates fibrosis through its strong antiproliferative and apoptotic effects on fibrotic cells. In advanced lesions, TGF-β might be important in arterial calcification, commonly referred to as "hardening of the arteries". Because TGF-β can signal through multiple pathways, namely the SMADs, a MAPK pathway and the Rho/ROCK pathways, selective defects in TGF-β signaling can disrupt otherwise coordinated pathways of tissue regeneration. TGF-β is known to control cell proliferation, cell migration, matrix synthesis, wound contraction, calcification and the immune response, all being major components of the atherosclerotic process. However, many of the effects of TGF-β are essential to normal tissue repair and thus, TGF-β is often thought to be "atheroprotective". The present review attempts to parse systematically the known effects of TGF-β on both the major risk factors for atherosclerosis and to isolate the role of TGF-β in the many component pathways involved in atherogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian Toma
- Department of Medicine, Division of Genomic Medicine, The George Washington University Medical Center, 2300 I Street NW. Ross Hall 443, Washington DC 20037, USA
| | - Timothy A. McCaffrey
- Department of Medicine, Division of Genomic Medicine, The George Washington University Medical Center, 2300 I Street NW. Ross Hall 443, Washington DC 20037, USA
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The PI3K/Akt pathway mediates the expression of type I collagen induced by TGF-β2 in human retinal pigment epithelial cells. Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2011; 250:15-23. [PMID: 21858467 PMCID: PMC3262137 DOI: 10.1007/s00417-011-1766-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2011] [Revised: 06/06/2011] [Accepted: 07/28/2011] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Transforming growth factor (TGF)-β is a key mediator of proliferative vitreoretinopathy, but the cellular mechanisms by which TGF-β induces extracellular matrix protein (ECM) synthesis are not fully understood. This study examined whether the PI3K/Akt pathway is involved in TGF-β2-induced collagen expression in human retinal pigment epithelial cells. Methods Human retinal pigment epithelial cells ARPE-19 were cultured and stimulated with TGF-β2. The role of the PI3K/Akt pathway was evaluated using the biochemical inhibitor, wortmannin. The effect of wortmannin on the expression of type I collagen mRNA (COL1A1, COL1A2) induced by TGF-β2 was evaluated by real-time RT-PCR. The effect of wortmannin on the synthesis of type I collagen induced by TGF-β2 was assessed by an immunocytochemical analysis with anti-type I collagen antibody. Luciferase reporter assays were performed to examine the effect of wortmannin on the transcriptional activities of COL1A2. A luciferase assay using a mutation construct of the Smad binding site in COL1A2 promoter (Smad-mut/Luc) was also performed to examine the crosstalk between the Smad pathway and the PI3K/Akt pathway. The effects of wortmannin on the transcriptional activity of Smad3 were also examined using CAGA12-Luc. Moreover, the effect of wortmannin on TGF-β2-induced Smad7 mRNA expression was evaluated. Results The biochemical blockade of PI3K/Akt activation inhibited TGF-β2-induced type I collagen mRNA expression and type I collagen synthesis. The blockade of PI3K/Akt pathway inhibited the increase in COL1A2 promoter activities when induced by TGF-β2 and reduced TGF-β2 induction of Smad-mut/Luc promoter activity and CAGA12-Luc activity. Moreover, wortmannin increased the TGF-β2-induced Smad7 mRNA expression levels. Conclusions The PI3K/Akt pathway plays a role in relaying the TGF-β2 signal to induce type I collagen synthesis in the retinal pigment epithelium through Smad-dependent and Smad-independent pathways.
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Calvieri C, Rubattu S, Volpe M. Molecular mechanisms underlying cardiac antihypertrophic and antifibrotic effects of natriuretic peptides. J Mol Med (Berl) 2011; 90:5-13. [PMID: 21826523 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-011-0801-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2011] [Revised: 07/16/2011] [Accepted: 08/02/2011] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Natriuretic peptides (NPs) exert well-characterized protective effects on the cardiovascular system, such as vasorelaxation, natri- and diuresis, increase of endothelial permeability, and inhibition of renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. It has been reported that they also possess antihypertrophic and antifibrotic properties and contribute actively to cardiac remodeling. As a consequence, they are involved in several aspects of cardiovascular diseases. Antihypertrophic and antifibrotic actions of NPs appear to be mediated by specific signaling pathways within a more complex cellular network. Elucidation of the molecular mechanisms underlying the effects of NPs on cardiac remodeling represents an important research objective in order to gain more insights on the complex network leading to cardiac hypertrophy, ventricular dysfunction, and transition to heart failure, and in the attempt to develop novel therapeutic agents. The aim of the present article is to review well-characterized molecular mechanisms underlying the antihypertrophic and antifibrotic effects of NPs in the heart that appear to be mainly mediated by guanylyl cyclase type A receptor. In particular, we discuss the calcineurin/NFAT, the sodium exchanger NHE-1, and the TGFβ1/Smad signaling pathways. The role of guanylyl cyclase type B receptor, along with the emerging functional significance of natriuretic peptide receptor type C as mediators of CNP antihypertrophic and antifibrotic actions in the heart are also considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camilla Calvieri
- Cardiology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine and Psychology, University Sapienza of Rome, Ospedale S. Andrea, Rome, Italy
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Yan P, Xia C, Duan C, Li S, Mei Z. Biological characteristics of foam cell formation in smooth muscle cells derived from bone marrow stem cells. Int J Biol Sci 2011; 7:937-46. [PMID: 21850203 PMCID: PMC3157268 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.7.937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2011] [Accepted: 07/27/2011] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSC) can differentiate into diverse cell types, including adipogenic, osteogenic, chondrogenic and myogenic lineages. There are lots of BMSC accumulated in atherosclerosis vessels and differentiate into VSMC. However, it is unclear whether VSMC originated from BMSC (BMSC-SMC) could remodel the vessel in new tunica intima or promote the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. In this study, BMSC were differentiated into VSMC in response to the transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) and shown to express a number of VSMC markers, such as α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and smooth muscle myosin heavy chain1 (SM-MHC1). BMSC-SMC became foam cells after treatment with 80 mg/L ox-LDL for 72 hours. Ox-LDL could upregulate scavenger receptor class A (SR-A) but downregulate the ATP-binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1) and caveolin-1 protein expression, suggesting that modulating relative protein activity contributes to smooth muscle foam cell formation in BMSC-SMC. Furthermore, we found that BMSC-SMC have some biological characteristics that are similar to VSMC, such as the ability of proliferation and secretion of extracellular matrix, but, at the same time, retain some biological characteristics of BMSC, such as a high level of migration. These results suggest that BMSC-SMC could be induced to foam cells and be involved in the development of atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengke Yan
- Department of Pharmacy, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical College, Guangzhou 510150, China.
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Miyasato SK, Loeffler J, Shohet R, Zhang J, Lindsey M, Le Saux CJ. Caveolin-1 modulates TGF-β1 signaling in cardiac remodeling. Matrix Biol 2011; 30:318-29. [PMID: 21641995 DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2011.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2010] [Revised: 04/27/2011] [Accepted: 05/20/2011] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The cardiac response to myocardial injury includes fibrotic and hypertrophic processes and a key mediator in this response is transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1). Caveolin-1 (cav1), the main structural protein of caveolae, is an inhibitor of the TGF-β1 signaling pathway. To examine the role of cav1 in cardiac repair, cav1 deficient (Cav1(-/-)) and wild type (WT) mice were subjected to cryoinjury of the left ventricle (LV). At baseline the two groups exhibited no inflammation, similar collagen content, and similar cardiac function. After injury, Cav1(-/-) animals displayed enhanced TGF-β1 signaling, as reflected by a 3-fold increase in the activation of the Smad2-dependent pathway and more widespread collagen deposition in the heart. Qualitative and quantitative analyses indicated that collagen deposition peaked in the WT LV 14days after injury, accompanied by increased mRNA abundance for procol1a2 (2-fold) and procol3a1 (3-fold). Collagen deposition was further enhanced in Cav1(-/-) mice, which was accompanied by reduced expression of matrix metalloproteinases MMP-8 (3-fold) and -13 mRNA (2-fold). The levels of expression of inflammatory markers of acute phase were similar between the strains However, macrophage clearance in the damaged region was delayed in Cav1(-/-) mice. We observed a 4-fold decrease in collagen deposition in Cav1(-/-) mice injected with a cav1 scaffolding domain peptide (CSD) and a 2-fold decrease in WT mice treated with the CSD. We conclude that cav1 has a direct role in reducing TGF-β1 signaling and as such might be an appropriate target for therapies to influence cardiac remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shelley K Miyasato
- Dept. of Cell and Molecular Biology, University of Hawaii, John A. Burns School of Medicine, Honolulu, HI, USA.
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