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Zuo H, Zhou W, Zhou B, Zhang Y, Xu M, Huang S, Alinejad T, Chen C. CCDC59 alleviates bleomycin-induced inflammation and pulmonary fibrosis by increasing SP-B and SP-C expression in mice. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 138:112645. [PMID: 38972208 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.112645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2024] [Revised: 06/24/2024] [Accepted: 07/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pulmonary fibrosis is a progressive disease with high incidence and poor prognosis. It is urgent to explore new therapeutic methods for pulmonary fibrosis. As a new treatment method, gene therapy has attracted more and more attention. CCDC59 is a transcriptional coactivator of SP-B and SP-C. Our study mainly aims to explore the effect of overexpression of CCDC59 gene in pulmonary fibrosis of mice. METHODS CCDC59 overexpressing lentivirus was constructed and then concentrated. RT-qPCR, Western blotting, and immunofluorescence assays were used to detect the expression of CCDC59, SP-B and SP-C protein in cell line and lung tissues after infected with lentivirus. Immunohistochemical staining and hematoxylin-eosin staining assays were used to assess the degree of fibrosis and ELISA assay was used to detect the concentrations of inflammatory factors, SP-B, and SP-C in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid of mice. Dynamic changes of mice lung function at various time points were assessed by lung function test assay. HIPPO pathway and proliferation capacity of alveolar type II epithelial cells were evaluated by immunofluorescence staining and Western blotting. RESULTS Results showed that endotracheal instillation of CCDC59 overexpressed lentivirus significantly alleviated bleomycin-induced inflammation and pulmonary fibrosis in mice. Overexpression of CCDC59 protein in type II alveolar epithelial cells can enhance the expression of SP-B and SP-C. Overexpression of CCDC59 protein significantly protected against pulmonary inflammatory response and improved lung function of mice. Overexpression of CCDC59 protein significantly alleviated the hyperactivation of HIPPO pathway and increased the proliferative capacity of type II alveolar epithelial cells in lung. CONCLUSION CCDC59 can alleviate inflammation and pulmonary fibrosis in mice by upregulating the expression of SP-B and SP-C in type II alveolar epithelial cells and alleviating the hyperactivation of HIPPO pathway. Our study offers a new potential treatment for pulmonary fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Zuo
- Key Laboratory of Interventional Pulmonology of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325015, China; Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Wanting Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Interventional Pulmonology of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325015, China; Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Binqian Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Interventional Pulmonology of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325015, China; Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Yuting Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Interventional Pulmonology of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325015, China; Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Mengying Xu
- Key Laboratory of Interventional Pulmonology of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325015, China; Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Shuai Huang
- Key Laboratory of Interventional Pulmonology of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325015, China; Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Tahereh Alinejad
- Oujiang Laboratory (Zhejiang Lab for Regenerative Medicine, Vision, and Brain), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, China
| | - Chengshui Chen
- Key Laboratory of Interventional Pulmonology of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325015, China; Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China; Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, The Quzhou Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Quzhou People's Hospital, Quzhou, 324000, China.
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Younesi FS, Miller AE, Barker TH, Rossi FMV, Hinz B. Fibroblast and myofibroblast activation in normal tissue repair and fibrosis. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol 2024; 25:617-638. [PMID: 38589640 DOI: 10.1038/s41580-024-00716-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
The term 'fibroblast' often serves as a catch-all for a diverse array of mesenchymal cells, including perivascular cells, stromal progenitor cells and bona fide fibroblasts. Although phenotypically similar, these subpopulations are functionally distinct, maintaining tissue integrity and serving as local progenitor reservoirs. In response to tissue injury, these cells undergo a dynamic fibroblast-myofibroblast transition, marked by extracellular matrix secretion and contraction of actomyosin-based stress fibres. Importantly, whereas transient activation into myofibroblasts aids in tissue repair, persistent activation triggers pathological fibrosis. In this Review, we discuss the roles of mechanical cues, such as tissue stiffness and strain, alongside cell signalling pathways and extracellular matrix ligands in modulating myofibroblast activation and survival. We also highlight the role of epigenetic modifications and myofibroblast memory in physiological and pathological processes. Finally, we discuss potential strategies for therapeutically interfering with these factors and the associated signal transduction pathways to improve the outcome of dysregulated healing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fereshteh Sadat Younesi
- Keenan Research Institute for Biomedical Science of the St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andrew E Miller
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Thomas H Barker
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Fabio M V Rossi
- School of Biomedical Engineering and Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Boris Hinz
- Keenan Research Institute for Biomedical Science of the St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
- Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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3
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Leask A, Nguyen J, Naik A, Chitturi P, Riser BL. The role of yes activated protein (YAP) in melanoma metastasis. iScience 2024; 27:109864. [PMID: 38770136 PMCID: PMC11103372 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.109864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Hippo was first identified in a genetic screen as a protein that suppressed proliferation and cell growth. Subsequently, it was shown that hippo acted in a so-called canonical cascade to suppress Yorkie, the Drosophila equivalent of Yes-activated protein (YAP), a mechanosensitive transcriptional cofactor that enhances the activity of the TEAD family of transcription factors. YAP promotes fibrosis, activation of cancer-associated fibroblasts, angiogenesis and cancer cell invasion. YAP activates the expression of the matricellular proteins CCN1 (cyr61) and CCN2 (ctgf), themselves mediators of fibrogenesis and oncogenesis, and coordination of matrix deposition and angiogenesis. This review discusses how therapeutically targeting YAP through YAP inhibitors verteporfin and celastrol and its downstream mediators CCN1 and CCN2 might be useful in treating melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Leask
- College of Dentistry, University of Saskatchewan, 105 Wiggins Road, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5E4, Canada
| | - John Nguyen
- College of Dentistry, University of Saskatchewan, 105 Wiggins Road, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5E4, Canada
| | - Angha Naik
- College of Dentistry, University of Saskatchewan, 105 Wiggins Road, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5E4, Canada
| | - Pratyusha Chitturi
- College of Dentistry, University of Saskatchewan, 105 Wiggins Road, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5E4, Canada
| | - Bruce L. Riser
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Center for Cancer Cell Biology, Immunology & Infection, Rosalind Franklin University, 3333 N. Green Bay Road, Chicago, IL 60064, USA
- BLR Bio, LLC, Kenosha, WI 53140, USA
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4
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Govorova IA, Nikitochkina SY, Vorotelyak EA. Influence of intersignaling crosstalk on the intracellular localization of YAP/TAZ in lung cells. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:289. [PMID: 38802925 PMCID: PMC11129370 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-024-01662-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
A cell is a dynamic system in which various processes occur simultaneously. In particular, intra- and intercellular signaling pathway crosstalk has a significant impact on a cell's life cycle, differentiation, proliferation, growth, regeneration, and, consequently, on the normal functioning of an entire organ. Hippo signaling and YAP/TAZ nucleocytoplasmic shuttling play a pivotal role in normal development, homeostasis, and tissue regeneration, particularly in lung cells. Intersignaling communication has a significant impact on the core components of the Hippo pathway and on YAP/TAZ localization. This review describes the crosstalk between Hippo signaling and key lung signaling pathways (WNT, SHH, TGFβ, Notch, Rho, and mTOR) using lung cells as an example and highlights the remaining unanswered questions.
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Affiliation(s)
- I A Govorova
- Koltsov Institute of Developmental Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Vavilov str, 26, Moscow, 119334, Russia.
| | - S Y Nikitochkina
- Koltsov Institute of Developmental Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Vavilov str, 26, Moscow, 119334, Russia
| | - E A Vorotelyak
- Koltsov Institute of Developmental Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Vavilov str, 26, Moscow, 119334, Russia
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5
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Chaudhry FN, Michki NS, Shirmer DL, McGrath-Morrow S, Young LR, Frank DB, Zepp JA. Dynamic Hippo pathway activity underlies mesenchymal differentiation during lung alveolar morphogenesis. Development 2024; 151:dev202430. [PMID: 38602485 PMCID: PMC11112347 DOI: 10.1242/dev.202430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
Alveologenesis, the final stage in lung development, substantially remodels the distal lung, expanding the alveolar surface area for efficient gas exchange. Secondary crest myofibroblasts (SCMF) exist transiently in the neonatal distal lung and are crucial for alveologenesis. However, the pathways that regulate SCMF function, proliferation and temporal identity remain poorly understood. To address this, we purified SCMFs from reporter mice, performed bulk RNA-seq and found dynamic changes in Hippo-signaling components during alveologenesis. We deleted the Hippo effectors Yap/Taz from Acta2-expressing cells at the onset of alveologenesis, causing a significant arrest in alveolar development. Using single cell RNA-seq, we identified a distinct cluster of cells in mutant lungs with altered expression of marker genes associated with proximal mesenchymal cell types, airway smooth muscle and alveolar duct myofibroblasts. In vitro studies confirmed that Yap/Taz regulates myofibroblast-associated gene signature and contractility. Together, our findings show that Yap/Taz is essential for maintaining functional myofibroblast identity during postnatal alveologenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatima N. Chaudhry
- Division of Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Nigel S. Michki
- Division of Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Dain L. Shirmer
- Division of Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Sharon McGrath-Morrow
- Division of Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Lisa R. Young
- Division of Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - David B. Frank
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Jarod A. Zepp
- Division of Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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6
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Leong E, Al-Bitar H, Marshall JS, Bezuhly M. Ketotifen directly modifies the fibrotic response of human skin fibroblasts. Sci Rep 2024; 14:7076. [PMID: 38528089 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-57776-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis is a destructive, end-stage disease process. In the skin, it is associated with systemic sclerosis and scarring with considerable health burden. Ketotifen is a clinical antihistamine and mast cell stabilizer. Studies have demonstrated mast cell-dependent anti-fibrotic effects of ketotifen but direct effects on fibroblasts have not been determined. Human dermal fibroblasts were treated with pro-fibrotic transforming growth factor-β1 (TGFβ) followed by ketotifen or control treatments to determine direct effects on fibrotic fibroblasts. Ketotifen impaired TGFβ-induced α-smooth muscle actin gene and protein responses and decreased cytoskeletal- and contractility-associated gene responses associated with fibrosis. Ketotifen reduced Yes-associated protein phosphorylation, transcriptional coactivator with PDZ binding motif transcript and protein levels, and phosphorylation of protein kinase B. In a fibroblast-populated collagen gel contraction assay, ketotifen reduced the contractile activity of TGFβ-activated fibroblasts. In a murine model of bleomycin-induced skin fibrosis, collagen density and dermal thickness were significantly decreased in ketotifen-treated mice supporting in vitro findings. These results support a novel, direct anti-fibrotic activity of ketotifen, reducing pro-fibrotic phenotypic changes in fibroblasts and reducing collagen fibres in fibrotic mouse skin. Together, these findings suggest novel therapeutic potential and a novel mechanism of action for ketotifen in the context of fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edwin Leong
- Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, 5850 College Street, Room 7-C, PO BOX 15000, Halifax, NS, B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Haya Al-Bitar
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
| | - Jean S Marshall
- Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, 5850 College Street, Room 7-C, PO BOX 15000, Halifax, NS, B3H 4R2, Canada.
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada.
- Beatrice Hunter Cancer Research Institute, Halifax, Canada.
| | - Michael Bezuhly
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada.
- Beatrice Hunter Cancer Research Institute, Halifax, Canada.
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Izaak Walton Killam Health Centre, 5850/5980 University Avenue, PO Box 9700, Halifax, NS, B3K 6R8, Canada.
- Department of Surgery, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada.
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7
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Shihan MH, Sharma S, Cable C, Prathigudupu V, Chen A, Mattis AN, Chen JY. AMPK stimulation inhibits YAP/TAZ signaling to ameliorate hepatic fibrosis. Sci Rep 2024; 14:5205. [PMID: 38433278 PMCID: PMC10909858 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-55764-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis is driven by the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). The Hippo pathway and its effectors, YAP and TAZ, are key regulators of HSC activation and fibrosis. However, there is a lack of mechanistic understanding of YAP/TAZ regulation in HSCs. Here we show that AMPK activation leads to YAP/TAZ inhibition and HSC inactivation in vitro, while the expression of a kinase-inactive mutant reversed these effects compared to wild type AMPKɑ1. Notably, the depletion of LATS1/2, an upstream kinase of YAP/TAZ signaling, rescues YAP/TAZ activation, suggesting that AMPK may be mediating YAP/TAZ inhibition via LATS1/2. In the carbon tetrachloride mouse model of fibrosis, pharmacologic activation of AMPK in HSCs inhibits YAP/TAZ signaling and reduces fibrosis. The findings implicate AMPK as a critical regulator of YAP/TAZ signaling and HSC inactivation and highlight AMPK activation as a therapeutic target for the treatment of hepatic fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahbubul H Shihan
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, 94115, USA
| | - Sachin Sharma
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, 94115, USA
| | - Carson Cable
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, 94115, USA
| | - Vijaya Prathigudupu
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, 94115, USA
| | - Alina Chen
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, 94115, USA
| | - Aras N Mattis
- Department of Pathology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
- The Liver Center, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
| | - Jennifer Y Chen
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, 94115, USA.
- The Liver Center, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA.
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Ma J, Fan H, Geng H. Distinct and overlapping functions of YAP and TAZ in tooth development and periodontal homeostasis. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 11:1281250. [PMID: 38259513 PMCID: PMC10800899 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1281250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Orthodontic tooth movement (OTM) involves mechanical-biochemical signal transduction, which results in tissue remodeling of the tooth-periodontium complex and the movement of orthodontic teeth. The dynamic regulation of osteogenesis and osteoclastogenesis serves as the biological basis for remodeling of the periodontium, and more importantly, the prerequisite for establishing periodontal homeostasis. Yes-associated protein (YAP) and transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ) are key effectors of the Hippo signaling pathway, which actively respond to mechanical stimuli during tooth movement. Specifically, they participate in translating mechanical into biochemical signals, thereby regulating periodontal homeostasis, periodontal remodeling, and tooth development. YAP and TAZ have widely been considered as key factors to prevent dental dysplasia, accelerate orthodontic tooth movement, and shorten treatment time. In this review, we summarize the functions of YAP and TAZ in regulating tooth development and periodontal remodeling, with the aim to gain a better understanding of their mechanisms of action and provide insights into maintaining proper tooth development and establishing a healthy periodontal and alveolar bone environment. Our findings offer novel perspectives and directions for targeted clinical treatments. Moreover, considering the similarities and differences in the development, structure, and physiology between YAP and TAZ, these molecules may exhibit functional variations in specific regulatory processes. Hence, we pay special attention to their distinct roles in specific regulatory functions to gain a comprehensive and profound understanding of their contributions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Ma
- Department of Oral Medicine, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, China
| | - Haixia Fan
- Department of Oral Medicine, Jining Medical University, Jining, Shandong, China
| | - Haixia Geng
- Department of Orthodontics, Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical University, Jining, Shandong, China
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Pirri C, Caroccia B, Angelini A, Piazza M, Petrelli L, Caputo I, Montemurro C, Ruggieri P, De Caro R, Stecco C. A New Player in the Mechanobiology of Deep Fascia: Yes-Associated Protein (YAP). Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15389. [PMID: 37895068 PMCID: PMC10607668 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242015389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2023] [Revised: 10/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent studies have demonstrated that fascial fibroblasts are susceptible to mechanical stimuli, leading to the remodeling of the extracellular matrix (ECM). Moreover, the extensive literature on Yes-associated protein (YAP) has shown its role in cell mechanics, linking cell properties, such as shape, adhesion, and size, to the expression of specific genes. The aim of this study was to investigate the presence of YAP in deep fascia and its activation after a mechanical stimulus was induced via a focal extracorporeal shockwave (fESW) treatment. Thoracolumbar fascia (TLF) samples were collected from eight patients (age: 30-70 years; four males and four females) who had undergone spine elective surgical procedures at the Orthopedic Clinic of University of Padova. YAP was measured in both tissue and TLF-derived fibroblasts through immunoblotting. COL1A1 and HABP2 gene expression were also evaluated in fibroblasts 2, 24, and 48 h after the fESW treatment. YAP was expressed in all the examined tissues. The ratio between the active/inactive forms (YAP/p-YAP) of the protein significantly increased in fascial fibroblasts after mechanical stimulation compared to untreated cells (p = 0.0022). Furthermore, COL1A1 and HABP2 gene expression levels were increased upon treatment. These findings demonstrate that YAP is expressed in the deep fascia of the thoracolumbar region, suggesting its involvement in fascial mechanotransduction processes, remodeling, regeneration, and fibrogenesis. This study indicates, for the first time, that YAP is a "new player" in the mechanobiology of deep fascia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmelo Pirri
- Department of Neurosciences, Institute of Human Anatomy, University of Padova, 35121 Padova, Italy; (R.D.C.); (C.S.)
| | - Brasilina Caroccia
- Department of Medicine-DIMED, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy; (B.C.); (M.P.); (L.P.); (I.C.)
| | - Andrea Angelini
- Department of Orthopedics and Orthopedic Oncology, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy; (A.A.); (P.R.)
| | - Maria Piazza
- Department of Medicine-DIMED, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy; (B.C.); (M.P.); (L.P.); (I.C.)
| | - Lucia Petrelli
- Department of Medicine-DIMED, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy; (B.C.); (M.P.); (L.P.); (I.C.)
| | - Ilaria Caputo
- Department of Medicine-DIMED, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy; (B.C.); (M.P.); (L.P.); (I.C.)
| | | | - Pietro Ruggieri
- Department of Orthopedics and Orthopedic Oncology, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy; (A.A.); (P.R.)
| | - Raffaele De Caro
- Department of Neurosciences, Institute of Human Anatomy, University of Padova, 35121 Padova, Italy; (R.D.C.); (C.S.)
| | - Carla Stecco
- Department of Neurosciences, Institute of Human Anatomy, University of Padova, 35121 Padova, Italy; (R.D.C.); (C.S.)
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Ezzo M, Hinz B. Novel approaches to target fibroblast mechanotransduction in fibroproliferative diseases. Pharmacol Ther 2023; 250:108528. [PMID: 37708995 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2023.108528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
The ability of cells to sense and respond to changes in mechanical environment is vital in conditions of organ injury when the architecture of normal tissues is disturbed or lost. Among the various cellular players that respond to injury, fibroblasts take center stage in re-establishing tissue integrity by secreting and organizing extracellular matrix into stabilizing scar tissue. Activation, activity, survival, and death of scar-forming fibroblasts are tightly controlled by mechanical environment and proper mechanotransduction ensures that fibroblast activities cease after completion of the tissue repair process. Conversely, dysregulated mechanotransduction often results in fibroblast over-activation or persistence beyond the state of normal repair. The resulting pathological accumulation of extracellular matrix is called fibrosis, a condition that has been associated with over 40% of all deaths in the industrialized countries. Consequently, elements in fibroblast mechanotransduction are scrutinized for their suitability as anti-fibrotic therapeutic targets. We review the current knowledge on mechanically relevant factors in the fibroblast extracellular environment, cell-matrix and cell-cell adhesion structures, stretch-activated membrane channels, stress-regulated cytoskeletal structures, and co-transcription factors. We critically discuss the targetability of these elements in therapeutic approaches and their progress in pre-clinical and/or clinical trials to treat organ fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya Ezzo
- Keenan Research Institute for Biomedical Science of the St. Michael's Hospital, and Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Boris Hinz
- Keenan Research Institute for Biomedical Science of the St. Michael's Hospital, and Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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Kizawa R, Araya J, Fujita Y. Divergent roles of the Hippo pathway in the pathogenesis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis: tissue homeostasis and fibrosis. Inflamm Regen 2023; 43:45. [PMID: 37735707 PMCID: PMC10512581 DOI: 10.1186/s41232-023-00295-1] [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: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive aging-related lung disease with a poor prognosis. Despite extensive research, the cause of IPF remains largely unknown and treatment strategies are limited. Proposed mechanisms of the pathogenesis of IPF are a combination of excessive accumulation of the extracellular matrix and dysfunctional lung tissue regeneration. Epithelial cell dysfunction, in addition to fibroblast activation, is considered a key process in the progression of IPF. Epithelial cells normally maintain homeostasis of the lung tissue through regulated proliferation, differentiation, cell death, and cellular senescence. However, various stresses can cause repetitive damage to lung epithelial cells, leading to dysfunctional regeneration and acquisition of profibrotic functions. The Hippo pathway is a central signaling pathway that maintains tissue homeostasis and plays an essential role in fundamental biological processes. Dysregulation of the Hippo pathway has been implicated in various diseases, including IPF. However, the role of the Hippo pathway in the pathogenesis of IPF remains unclear, particularly given the pathway's opposing effects on the 2 key pathogenic mechanisms of IPF: epithelial cell dysfunction and fibroblast activation. A deeper understanding of the relationship between the Hippo pathway and the pathogenesis of IPF will pave the way for novel Hippo-targeted therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryusuke Kizawa
- Division of Respiratory Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, The Jikei University School of Medicine, 3-25-8 Nishi-Shimbashi, Minato-Ku, Tokyo, 105-8461, Japan
- Division of Next-Generation Drug Development, Research Center for Medical Sciences, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Jun Araya
- Division of Respiratory Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, The Jikei University School of Medicine, 3-25-8 Nishi-Shimbashi, Minato-Ku, Tokyo, 105-8461, Japan
| | - Yu Fujita
- Division of Respiratory Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, The Jikei University School of Medicine, 3-25-8 Nishi-Shimbashi, Minato-Ku, Tokyo, 105-8461, Japan.
- Division of Next-Generation Drug Development, Research Center for Medical Sciences, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.
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Gao AY, Diaz Espinosa AM, Nguyen BBN, Link PA, Meridew J, Jones DL, Gibbard DF, Tschumperlin DJ, Haak AJ. Dopamine Receptor D1 Is Exempt from Transforming Growth Factor β-Mediated Antifibrotic G Protein-Coupled Receptor Landscape Tampering in Lung Fibroblasts. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2023; 386:277-287. [PMID: 37024146 PMCID: PMC10449101 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.122.001442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary fibroblasts are the primary producers of extracellular matrix (ECM) in the lungs, and their pathogenic activation drives scarring and loss of lung function in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). This uncontrolled production of ECM is stimulated by mechanosignaling and transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1) signaling that together promote transcriptional programs including Yes-associated protein (YAP) and transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ). G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) that couple to G α s have emerged as pharmacological targets to inactivate YAP/TAZ signaling and promote lung fibrosis resolution. Previous studies have shown a loss of expression of "antifibrotic GPCRs"-receptors that couple to G α s, in IPF patient-derived fibroblasts compared with non-IPF samples. Of the 14 G α s GPCRs we found to be expressed in lung fibroblasts, the dopamine receptor D1 (DRD1) was one of only two not repressed by TGF-β1 signaling, with the β2-adrenergic receptor being the most repressed. We compared the potency and efficacy of multiple D1 and β2 receptor agonists +/- TGF-β1 treatment in vitro for their ability to elevate cAMP, inhibit nuclear localization of YAP/TAZ, regulate expression of profibrotic and antifibrotic genes, and inhibit cellular proliferation and collagen deposition. Consistently, the activity of β2 receptor agonists was lost, whereas D1 receptor agonists was maintained, after stimulating cultured lung fibroblasts with TGF-β1. These data further support the therapeutic potential of the dopamine receptor D1 and highlight an orchestrated and pervasive loss of antifibrotic GPCRs mediated by TGF-β1 signaling. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a deadly lung disease with limited therapies. GPCRs have emerged as a primary target for the development of novel antifibrotic drugs; however, a challenge to this approach is the dramatic changes in GPCR expression in response to profibrotic stimuli. Here, we investigate the impact of TGF-β1 on the expression of antifibrotic GPCRs and show the D1 dopamine receptor expression is uniquely maintained in response to TGF-β1, further implicating it as a compelling target to treat IPF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Y Gao
- Departments of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering (A.M.D.E., P.A.L., J.M., D.L.J., D.J.T., A.J.H.), Ophthalmology (A.Y.G.), and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics (B.B.N.N., D.F.G., A.J.H.), Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Ana M Diaz Espinosa
- Departments of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering (A.M.D.E., P.A.L., J.M., D.L.J., D.J.T., A.J.H.), Ophthalmology (A.Y.G.), and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics (B.B.N.N., D.F.G., A.J.H.), Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Ba Bao N Nguyen
- Departments of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering (A.M.D.E., P.A.L., J.M., D.L.J., D.J.T., A.J.H.), Ophthalmology (A.Y.G.), and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics (B.B.N.N., D.F.G., A.J.H.), Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Patrick A Link
- Departments of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering (A.M.D.E., P.A.L., J.M., D.L.J., D.J.T., A.J.H.), Ophthalmology (A.Y.G.), and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics (B.B.N.N., D.F.G., A.J.H.), Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Jeffrey Meridew
- Departments of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering (A.M.D.E., P.A.L., J.M., D.L.J., D.J.T., A.J.H.), Ophthalmology (A.Y.G.), and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics (B.B.N.N., D.F.G., A.J.H.), Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Dakota L Jones
- Departments of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering (A.M.D.E., P.A.L., J.M., D.L.J., D.J.T., A.J.H.), Ophthalmology (A.Y.G.), and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics (B.B.N.N., D.F.G., A.J.H.), Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Daniel F Gibbard
- Departments of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering (A.M.D.E., P.A.L., J.M., D.L.J., D.J.T., A.J.H.), Ophthalmology (A.Y.G.), and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics (B.B.N.N., D.F.G., A.J.H.), Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Daniel J Tschumperlin
- Departments of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering (A.M.D.E., P.A.L., J.M., D.L.J., D.J.T., A.J.H.), Ophthalmology (A.Y.G.), and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics (B.B.N.N., D.F.G., A.J.H.), Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Andrew J Haak
- Departments of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering (A.M.D.E., P.A.L., J.M., D.L.J., D.J.T., A.J.H.), Ophthalmology (A.Y.G.), and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics (B.B.N.N., D.F.G., A.J.H.), Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
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Caporarello N, Ligresti G. Vascular Contribution to Lung Repair and Fibrosis. Am J Respir Cell Mol Biol 2023; 69:135-146. [PMID: 37126595 PMCID: PMC10399144 DOI: 10.1165/rcmb.2022-0431tr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Lungs are constantly exposed to environmental perturbations and therefore have remarkable capacity to regenerate in response to injury. Sustained lung injuries, aging, and increased genomic instability, however, make lungs particularly susceptible to disrepair and fibrosis. Pulmonary fibrosis constitutes a major cause of morbidity and is often relentlessly progressive, leading to death from respiratory failure. The pulmonary vasculature, which is critical for gas exchanges and plays a key role during lung development, repair, and regeneration, becomes aberrantly remodeled in patients with progressive pulmonary fibrosis. Although capillary rarefaction and increased vascular permeability are recognized as distinctive features of fibrotic lungs, the role of vasculature dysfunction in the pathogenesis of pulmonary fibrosis has only recently emerged as an important contributor to the progression of this disease. This review summarizes current findings related to lung vascular repair and regeneration and provides recent insights into the vascular abnormalities associated with the development of persistent lung fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nunzia Caporarello
- Department of Medicine, Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, Illinois; and
| | - Giovanni Ligresti
- Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
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Schuster R, Younesi F, Ezzo M, Hinz B. The Role of Myofibroblasts in Physiological and Pathological Tissue Repair. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Biol 2023; 15:cshperspect.a041231. [PMID: 36123034 PMCID: PMC9808581 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a041231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Myofibroblasts are the construction workers of wound healing and repair damaged tissues by producing and organizing collagen/extracellular matrix (ECM) into scar tissue. Scar tissue effectively and quickly restores the mechanical integrity of lost tissue architecture but comes at the price of lost tissue functionality. Fibrotic diseases caused by excessive or persistent myofibroblast activity can lead to organ failure. This review defines myofibroblast terminology, phenotypic characteristics, and functions. We will focus on the central role of the cell, ECM, and tissue mechanics in regulating tissue repair by controlling myofibroblast action. Additionally, we will discuss how therapies based on mechanical intervention potentially ameliorate wound healing outcomes. Although myofibroblast physiology and pathology affect all organs, we will emphasize cutaneous wound healing and hypertrophic scarring as paradigms for normal tissue repair versus fibrosis. A central message of this review is that myofibroblasts can be activated from multiple cell sources, varying with local environment and type of injury, to either restore tissue integrity and organ function or create an inappropriate mechanical environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronen Schuster
- Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, M5S 3E2 Ontario, Canada
| | - Fereshteh Younesi
- Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, M5S 3E2 Ontario, Canada.,Laboratory of Tissue Repair and Regeneration, Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science of the St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario M5B 1T8, Canada
| | - Maya Ezzo
- Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, M5S 3E2 Ontario, Canada.,Laboratory of Tissue Repair and Regeneration, Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science of the St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario M5B 1T8, Canada
| | - Boris Hinz
- Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, M5S 3E2 Ontario, Canada.,Laboratory of Tissue Repair and Regeneration, Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science of the St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario M5B 1T8, Canada
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New Insights into Hippo/YAP Signaling in Fibrotic Diseases. Cells 2022; 11:cells11132065. [PMID: 35805148 PMCID: PMC9265296 DOI: 10.3390/cells11132065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Revised: 06/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis results from defective wound healing processes often seen after chronic injury and/or inflammation in a range of organs. Progressive fibrotic events may lead to permanent organ damage/failure. The hallmark of fibrosis is the excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM), mostly produced by pathological myofibroblasts and myofibroblast-like cells. The Hippo signaling pathway is an evolutionarily conserved kinase cascade, which has been described well for its crucial role in cell proliferation, apoptosis, cell fate decisions, and stem cell self-renewal during development, homeostasis, and tissue regeneration. Recent investigations in clinical and pre-clinical models has shown that the Hippo signaling pathway is linked to the pathophysiology of fibrotic diseases in many organs including the lung, heart, liver, kidney, and skin. In this review, we have summarized recent evidences related to the contribution of the Hippo signaling pathway in the development of organ fibrosis. A better understanding of this pathway will guide us to dissect the pathophysiology of fibrotic disorders and develop effective tissue repair therapies.
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Dupont S, Wickström SA. Mechanical regulation of chromatin and transcription. Nat Rev Genet 2022; 23:624-643. [DOI: 10.1038/s41576-022-00493-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
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