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Ko J, Noviani M, Chellamuthu VR, Albani S, Low AHL. The Pathogenesis of Systemic Sclerosis: The Origin of Fibrosis and Interlink with Vasculopathy and Autoimmunity. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14287. [PMID: 37762589 PMCID: PMC10532389 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241814287] [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: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disease associated with increased mortality and poor morbidity, impairing the quality of life in patients. Whilst we know that SSc affects multiple organs via vasculopathy, inflammation, and fibrosis, its exact pathophysiology remains elusive. Microvascular injury and vasculopathy are the initial pathological features of the disease. Clinically, the vasculopathy in SSc is manifested as Raynaud's phenomenon (reversible vasospasm in reaction to the cold or emotional stress) and digital ulcers due to ischemic injury. There are several reports that medications for vasculopathy, such as bosentan and soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) modulators, improve not only vasculopathy but also dermal fibrosis, suggesting that vasculopathy is important in SSc. Although vasculopathy is an important initial step of the pathogenesis for SSc, it is still unclear how vasculopathy is related to inflammation and fibrosis. In this review, we focused on the clinical evidence for vasculopathy, the major cellular players for the pathogenesis, including pericytes, adipocytes, endothelial cells (ECs), and myofibroblasts, and their signaling pathway to elucidate the relationship among vasculopathy, inflammation, and fibrosis in SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junsuk Ko
- Duke-National University of Singapore Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore; (J.K.); (M.N.); (S.A.)
| | - Maria Noviani
- Duke-National University of Singapore Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore; (J.K.); (M.N.); (S.A.)
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore 169608, Singapore
- Translational Immunology Institute, SingHealth Duke-National University of Singapore Academic Medical Centre, Singapore 169856, Singapore;
| | - Vasuki Ranjani Chellamuthu
- Translational Immunology Institute, SingHealth Duke-National University of Singapore Academic Medical Centre, Singapore 169856, Singapore;
| | - Salvatore Albani
- Duke-National University of Singapore Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore; (J.K.); (M.N.); (S.A.)
- Translational Immunology Institute, SingHealth Duke-National University of Singapore Academic Medical Centre, Singapore 169856, Singapore;
| | - Andrea Hsiu Ling Low
- Duke-National University of Singapore Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore; (J.K.); (M.N.); (S.A.)
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore 169608, Singapore
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Maciejewska M, Sikora M, Stec A, Zaremba M, Maciejewski C, Pawlik K, Rudnicka L. Hypoxia-Inducible Factor-1α (HIF-1α) as a Biomarker for Changes in Microcirculation in Individuals with Systemic Sclerosis. Dermatol Ther (Heidelb) 2023:10.1007/s13555-023-00952-w. [PMID: 37316749 DOI: 10.1007/s13555-023-00952-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Systemic sclerosis is an autoimmune disease characterized by tissue fibrosis and microangiopathy. Vascular changes such as a decrease in capillary density diminish blood flow and impair tissue oxygenation. Reliable ways to monitor disease activity and predict disease progression are desired in the process of patient selection for clinical trials and to optimize individual patient outcomes. Hypoxia-inducible factor-1 (HIF-1) is a dimeric protein complex that plays an integral role in the body's response to hypoxia. Our study aimed to investigate the potential abnormalities of HIF-1α plasma concentration and its possible association with disease activity and vascular abnormalities in patients with systemic sclerosis. METHODS Blood plasma levels of HIF-1α were measured in patients with systemic sclerosis (n = 50) and in healthy individuals (n = 30) using commercially available ELISA test kits. RESULTS The results showed a marked increase in HIF-1α levels in patients with systemic sclerosis (3.042 ng/ml [2.295-7.749]) compared to the control group (1.969 ng/ml [1.531-2.903] p < 0.01). Patients with diffuse cutaneous SSc (2.803 ng/ml, IQR 2.221-8.799) and limited cutaneous SSc (3.231 ng/ml, IQR 2.566-5.502) exhibited elevated serum HIF-1α levels compared to the control group (p < 0.01). We found a notable increase in HIF-1α plasma concentration in patients with an "active" pattern (6.625 ng/ml, IQR 2.488-11.480) compared to those with either an "early" pattern (2.739, IQR 2.165-3.282, p < 0.05) or a "late" pattern (2.983 ng/ml, IQR 2.229-3.386, p < 0.05). Patients with no history of digital ulcers had significantly higher levels of HIF-1α (4.367 ng/ml, IQR 2.488-9.462) compared to patients with either active digital ulcers (2.832 ng/ml, IQR 2.630-3.094, p < 0.05) or healed digital ulcers (2.668 ng/ml, IQR 2.074-2.983, p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Our results indicate that HIF-1α may serve as a biomarker in assessing microcirculatory changes in individuals with systemic sclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Maciejewska
- Department of Dermatology, Doctoral School of Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland.
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Warsaw, Koszykowa 82a, 02-008, Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Mariusz Sikora
- National Institute of Geriatrics, Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Albert Stec
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Warsaw, Koszykowa 82a, 02-008, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Michał Zaremba
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Warsaw, Koszykowa 82a, 02-008, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Cezary Maciejewski
- 1St Chair and Department of Cardiology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Pawlik
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Warsaw, Koszykowa 82a, 02-008, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Lidia Rudnicka
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Warsaw, Koszykowa 82a, 02-008, Warsaw, Poland
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Tang YY, Wang DC, Wang YQ, Huang AF, Xu WD. Emerging role of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α in inflammatory autoimmune diseases: A comprehensive review. Front Immunol 2023; 13:1073971. [PMID: 36761171 PMCID: PMC9905447 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1073971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) is a primary metabolic sensor, and is expressed in different immune cells, such as macrophage, dendritic cell, neutrophil, T cell, and non-immune cells, for instance, synovial fibroblast, and islet β cell. HIF-1α signaling regulates cellular metabolism, triggering the release of inflammatory cytokines and inflammatory cells proliferation. It is known that microenvironment hypoxia, vascular proliferation, and impaired immunological balance are present in autoimmune diseases. To date, HIF-1α is recognized to be overexpressed in several inflammatory autoimmune diseases, such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), rheumatoid arthritis, and function of HIF-1α is dysregulated in these diseases. In this review, we narrate the signaling pathway of HIF-1α and the possible immunopathological roles of HIF-1α in autoimmune diseases. The collected information will provide a theoretical basis for the familiarization and development of new clinical trials and treatment based on HIF-1α and inflammatory autoimmune disorders in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang-Yang Tang
- Department of Evidence-Based Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Da-Cheng Wang
- Department of Evidence-Based Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - You-Qiang Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - An-Fang Huang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Wang-Dong Xu
- Department of Evidence-Based Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China,*Correspondence: Wang-Dong Xu,
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Mao J, Liu J, Zhou M, Wang G, Xiong X, Deng Y. Hypoxia-induced interstitial transformation of microvascular endothelial cells by mediating HIF-1α/VEGF signaling in systemic sclerosis. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0263369. [PMID: 35231032 PMCID: PMC8887755 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0263369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective The aim of this research was to systematically investigate the effects of endothelial mesenchymal transition (EndMT) induced by hypoxia on the skin microvascular remodeling of systemic sclerosis (SSc) and the underlying mechanism. Methods Skin tissues from SSc patients and controls were collected for isobaric tags for the relative and absolute quantification (iTRAQ)-based proteomics and immunohistochemical test. Human microvascular endothelial cell line-1 (HMEC-1) cultured in hypoxic or normal conditions was treated by tamoxifen or bevacizumab. Results The iTRAQ-based proteomics indicated a significantly upregulated hypoxia-inducible factor-1 (HIF-1) signal in SSc samples. The immunohistochemical results demonstrated the significant downregulation of CD31, the positive staining of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), HIF-1α, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF-a) in SSc skin tissues, compared with control samples. Consistent with these observations, HMEC-1 cells cultured under hypoxic conditions exhibited a significant decrease in CD31 and VE-cadherin expression, alongside a marked increase in the expression of α-SMA and fibronectin, as well as a distinct upregulation of HIF-1α and VEGF-a, when compared with those under normal conditions. It is noteworthy that the inhibition of HIF-1α by tamoxifen effectively downregulated the hypoxic induction of VEGF-a and α-SMA while rescuing the hypoxic suppression of CD31. In addition, the VEGF-a inhibitor bevacizumab treatment had the same effect on the hypoxic expression of α-SMA and CD31, as a tamoxifen intervention, but did not reduce HIF-1α. Conclusion These results suggest that the HIF-1α/VEGF signaling pathway can have a critical role in mediating the effect of hypoxia-induced EndMT on the skin microvascular remodeling of SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Mao
- Department of Dermatology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, P.R. China
| | - Jiexiong Liu
- Department of Dermatology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, P.R. China
| | - Mei Zhou
- Department of Dermatology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, P.R. China
| | - Guiqiang Wang
- Department of Infectious Disease, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xia Xiong
- Department of Dermatology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, P.R. China
- * E-mail: (YD); (XX)
| | - Yongqiong Deng
- Department of Dermatology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, P.R. China
- * E-mail: (YD); (XX)
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Di Benedetto P, Ruscitti P, Berardicurti O, Vomero M, Navarini L, Dolo V, Cipriani P, Giacomelli R. Endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition in systemic sclerosis. Clin Exp Immunol 2021; 205:12-27. [PMID: 33772754 DOI: 10.1111/cei.13599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disease characterized by significant vascular alterations and multi-organ fibrosis. Microvascular alterations are the first event of SSc and injured endothelial cells (ECs) may transdifferentiate towards myofibroblasts, the cells responsible for fibrosis and collagen deposition. This process is identified as endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT), and understanding of its development is pivotal to identify early pathogenetic events and new therapeutic targets for SSc. In this review, we have highlighted the molecular mechanisms of EndMT and summarize the evidence of the role played by EndMT during the development of progressive fibrosis in SSc, also exploring the possible therapeutic role of its inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Di Benedetto
- Clinical Pathology Unit, Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - P Ruscitti
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - O Berardicurti
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - M Vomero
- Unit of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Rome 'Campus Biomedico', Rome, Italy
| | - L Navarini
- Unit of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Rome 'Campus Biomedico', Rome, Italy
| | - V Dolo
- Clinical Pathology Unit, Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - P Cipriani
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - R Giacomelli
- Unit of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Rome 'Campus Biomedico', Rome, Italy
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Romano E, Rosa I, Fioretto BS, Cerinic MM, Manetti M. The Role of Pro-fibrotic Myofibroblasts in Systemic Sclerosis: from Origin to Therapeutic Targeting. Curr Mol Med 2021; 22:209-239. [PMID: 33823766 DOI: 10.2174/0929867328666210325102749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Revised: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc, scleroderma) is a complex connective tissue disorder characterized by multisystem clinical manifestations resulting from immune dysregulation/autoimmunity, vasculopathy and, most notably, progressive fibrosis of the skin and internal organs. In recent years, it has emerged that the main drivers of SSc-related tissue fibrosis are myofibroblasts, a type of mesenchymal cells with both the extracellular matrix-synthesizing features of fibroblasts and the cytoskeletal characteristics of contractile smooth muscle cells. The accumulation and persistent activation of pro-fibrotic myofibroblasts during SSc development and progression result into elevated mechanical stress and reduced matrix plasticity within the affected tissues and may be ascribed to a reduced susceptibility of these cells to pro-apoptotic stimuli, as well as their increased formation from tissue-resident fibroblasts or transition from different cell types. Given the crucial role of myofibroblasts in SSc pathogenesis, finding the way to inhibit myofibroblast differentiation and accumulation by targeting their formation, function and survival may represent an effective approach to hamper the fibrotic process or even halt or reverse established fibrosis. In this review, we discuss the role of myofibroblasts in SSc-related fibrosis, with a special focus on their cellular origin and the signaling pathways implicated in their formation and persistent activation. Furthermore, we provide an overview of potential therapeutic strategies targeting myofibroblasts that may be able to counteract fibrosis in this pathological condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eloisa Romano
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Florence, Florence. Italy
| | - Irene Rosa
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Florence, Florence. Italy
| | - Bianca Saveria Fioretto
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Florence, Florence. Italy
| | - Marco Matucci Cerinic
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Florence, Florence. Italy
| | - Mirko Manetti
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Anatomy and Histology, University of Florence, Florence. Italy
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Dong Z, Dai H, Feng Z, Liu W, Gao Y, Liu F, Zhang Z, Zhang N, Dong X, Zhao Q, Zhou X, Du J, Liu B. Mechanism of herbal medicine on hypertensive nephropathy (Review). Mol Med Rep 2021; 23:234. [PMID: 33537809 PMCID: PMC7893801 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2021.11873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 12/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypertensive nephropathy is the most common complication of hypertension, and is one of the main causes of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) in numerous countries. The basic pathological feature of hypertensive nephropathy is arteriolosclerosis followed by renal parenchymal damage. The etiology of this disease is complex, and its pathogenesis is mainly associated with renal hemodynamic changes and vascular remodeling. Despite the increased knowledge on the pathogenesis of hypertensive nephropathy, the current clinical treatment methods are still not effective in preventing the development of the disease to ESRD. Herbal medicine, which is used to relieve symptoms, can improve hypertensive nephropathy through multiple targets. Since there are few clinical studies on the treatment of hypertensive nephropathy with herbal medicine, this article aims to review the progress on the basic research on the treatment of hypertensive nephropathy with herbal medicine, including regulation of the renin angiotensin system, inhibition of sympathetic excitation, antioxidant stress and anti-inflammatory protection of endothelial cells, and improvement of obesity-associated factors. Herbal medicine with different components plays a synergistic and multi-target role in the treatment of hypertensive nephropathy. The description of the mechanism of herbal medicine in the treatment of hypertensive nephropathy will contribute towards the progress of modern medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaocheng Dong
- Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, P.R. China
| | - Haoran Dai
- Shunyi Branch, Beijing Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Beijing 101300, P.R. China
| | - Zhandong Feng
- Beijing Chinese Medicine Hospital Pinggu Hospital, Beijing 101200, P.R. China
| | - Wenbin Liu
- Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing 100010, P.R. China
| | - Yu Gao
- Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing 100010, P.R. China
| | - Fei Liu
- Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, P.R. China
| | - Zihan Zhang
- Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, P.R. China
| | - Na Zhang
- Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing 100010, P.R. China
| | - Xuan Dong
- Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing 100010, P.R. China
| | - Qihan Zhao
- Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing 100010, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoshan Zhou
- Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, P.R. China
| | - Jieli Du
- Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, P.R. China
| | - Baoli Liu
- Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing 100010, P.R. China
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Rosa I, Romano E, Fioretto BS, Manetti M. The contribution of mesenchymal transitions to the pathogenesis of systemic sclerosis. Eur J Rheumatol 2020; 7:S157-S164. [PMID: 31922472 PMCID: PMC7647682 DOI: 10.5152/eurjrheum.2019.19081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2019] [Accepted: 11/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a multifaceted connective tissue disease characterized by widespread vasculopathy and autoimmune reactions that evolve into progressive interstitial, perivascular, and vessel wall fibrosis that affects the skin and multiple internal organs. Such an uncontrolled fibrotic process gradually disrupts the physiologic architecture of the affected tissues and frequently leads to significant organ dysfunction, thus representing a major cause of death in SSc patients. The main fibrosis orchestrators in SSc are represented by chronically activated myofibroblasts, a peculiar population of mesenchymal cells combining the extracellular matrix-synthesizing features of fibroblasts with cytoskeletal characteristics of contractile smooth muscle cells. Multiple lines of evidence support the notion that profibrotic myofibroblasts may derive not only from the activation of tissue resident fibroblasts but also from a variety of additional cell types, including pericytes, epithelial cells, vascular endothelial cells and preadipocytes/adipocytes. Here we overview an emerging picture that espouses that several cell transitional processes may be novel essential contributors to the pool of profibrotic myofibroblasts in SSc, potentially representing new suitable targets for therapeutic purposes. An in-depth dissection of the multiple origins of myofibroblasts and the underlying molecular mechanisms may be crucial in the process of deciphering the cellular bases of fibrosis persistence and refractoriness to the treatment and, therefore, may help in developing more effective and personalized therapeutic opportunities for SSc patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Rosa
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Eloisa Romano
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Mirko Manetti
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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9
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Saadatian Z, Nariman-Saleh-Fam Z, Khaheshi I, Mansoori Y, Daraei A, Ghaderian SMH, Omrani MD. Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells Expression Levels of miR-196a and miR-100 in Coronary Artery Disease Patients. Immunol Invest 2020; 50:914-924. [PMID: 32928012 DOI: 10.1080/08820139.2020.1791177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
As a chronic inflammatory disease, coronary artery disease (CAD) is a common cause of death worldwide. Dysregulation of microRNA expression levels in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) may contribute to CAD and serve as a potential diagnostic biomarker. Here, we evaluated PBMC expression of two CAD-related inflammatory miRNAs, miR-196a and miR-100, in PBMCs of CAD patients with significant stenosis (CAD, n: 72), patients with insignificant coronary stenosis (ICAD, n: 30), and controls (n: 74) and checked whether they can segregate study groups. MiRNA expression was evaluated using the standard stem-loop RT-qPCR method. MiR-196a expression was downregulated in ICAD compared to CADs and healthy groups. MiR100 expression levels were not different between groups. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis acquainted that miR-196a expression levels in PBMC could segregate CAD individuals or any of its clinical manifestations (i.e. unstable angina, stable angina, acute myocardial infarction) from ICADs. In conclusion, this study reported a distinct miR-196a expression pattern in PBMCs of all patient groups and recommended a biomarker potential for miR-196a in discriminating ICADs from CADs or healthy controls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Saadatian
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Gonabad University of Medical Sciences, Gonabad, Iran
| | - Ziba Nariman-Saleh-Fam
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Isa Khaheshi
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Yaser Mansoori
- Noncommunicable Diseases Research Center, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran
| | - Abdolreza Daraei
- Department of Genetics, School of Medicine, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | | | - Mir Davood Omrani
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Čolić J, Matucci Cerinic M, Guiducci S, Damjanov N. Microparticles in systemic sclerosis, targets or tools to control fibrosis: This is the question! JOURNAL OF SCLERODERMA AND RELATED DISORDERS 2020; 5:6-20. [PMID: 35382401 PMCID: PMC8922594 DOI: 10.1177/2397198319857356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2019] [Accepted: 05/20/2019] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis is the main systemic fibrotic disease with unknown etiology characterized by peripheral microvascular injury, activation of immune system, and wide-spread progressive fibrosis. Microparticles can be derived from any cell type during normal cellular differentiation, senescence, and apoptosis, and also upon cellular activation. Carrying along a broad range of surface cytoplasmic and nuclear molecules of originating cells, microparticles are closely implicated in inflammation, thrombosis, angiogenesis, and immunopathogenesis. Recently, microparticles have been proposed as biomarkers of endothelial injury, which is the primary event in the genesis of tissue fibrosis. Microparticles may have a role in fostering endothelial to mesenchymal transition, thus giving a significant contribution to the development of myofibroblasts, the most important final effectors responsible for tissue fibrosis and fibroproliferative vasculopathy. Thanks to potent profibrotic mediators, such as transforming growth factor beta, platelet-derived growth factor, high mobility group box 1 protein, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase 4, and antifibrotic agents, such as matrix metalloproteinases, microparticles may play an opposite role in fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jelena Čolić
- Department of Rheumatology, Institute of
Rheumatology, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Marco Matucci Cerinic
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of
Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Careggi (AOUC)
and Denothe Centre, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Serena Guiducci
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of
Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Careggi (AOUC)
and Denothe Centre, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Nemanja Damjanov
- Department of Rheumatology, Institute of
Rheumatology, Belgrade, Serbia
- School of Medicine, University of
Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
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11
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Karimizadeh E, Sharifi-Zarchi A, Nikaein H, Salehi S, Salamatian B, Elmi N, Gharibdoost F, Mahmoudi M. Analysis of gene expression profiles and protein-protein interaction networks in multiple tissues of systemic sclerosis. BMC Med Genomics 2019; 12:199. [PMID: 31881890 PMCID: PMC6935135 DOI: 10.1186/s12920-019-0632-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2019] [Accepted: 11/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Systemic sclerosis (SSc), a multi-organ disorder, is characterized by vascular abnormalities, dysregulation of the immune system, and fibrosis. The mechanisms underlying tissue pathology in SSc have not been entirely understood. This study intended to investigate the common and tissue-specific pathways involved in different tissues of SSc patients. Methods An integrative gene expression analysis of ten independent microarray datasets of three tissues was conducted to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs). DEGs were mapped to the search tool for retrieval of interacting genes (STRING) to acquire protein–protein interaction (PPI) networks. Then, functional clusters in PPI networks were determined. Enrichr, a gene list enrichment analysis tool, was utilized for the functional enrichment of clusters. Results A total of 12, 2, and 4 functional clusters from 619, 52, and 119 DEGs were determined in the lung, peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC), and skin tissues, respectively. Analysis revealed that the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) signaling pathway was enriched significantly in the three investigated tissues as a common pathway. In addition, clusters associated with inflammation and immunity were common in the three investigated tissues. However, clusters related to the fibrosis process were common in lung and skin tissues. Conclusions Analysis indicated that there were common pathological clusters that contributed to the pathogenesis of SSc in different tissues. Moreover, it seems that the common pathways in distinct tissues stem from a diverse set of genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elham Karimizadeh
- Rheumatology Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences Shariati Hospital, Kargar Ave, P.O. BOX 1411713137, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Sharifi-Zarchi
- Department of Computer Engineering, Sharif University of Technology, Azadi Ave, P.O. BOX 11365-11155, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Hassan Nikaein
- Department of Computer Engineering, Sharif University of Technology, Azadi Ave, P.O. BOX 11365-11155, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyedehsaba Salehi
- Department of Mathematical Sciences, Sharif University of Technology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Bahar Salamatian
- Department of Mathematical Sciences, Sharif University of Technology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Naser Elmi
- Rheumatology Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences Shariati Hospital, Kargar Ave, P.O. BOX 1411713137, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farhad Gharibdoost
- Rheumatology Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences Shariati Hospital, Kargar Ave, P.O. BOX 1411713137, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahdi Mahmoudi
- Rheumatology Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences Shariati Hospital, Kargar Ave, P.O. BOX 1411713137, Tehran, Iran. .,Inflammation Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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12
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VELIER M, SIMONCINI S, ABELLAN M, FRANCOIS P, EAP S, LAGRANGE A, BERTRAND B, DAUMAS A, GRANEL B, DELORME B, DIGNAT GEORGE F, MAGALON J, SABATIER F. Adipose-Derived Stem Cells from Systemic Sclerosis Patients Maintain Pro-Angiogenic and Antifibrotic Paracrine Effects In Vitro. J Clin Med 2019; 8:E1979. [PMID: 31739569 PMCID: PMC6912239 DOI: 10.3390/jcm8111979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2019] [Revised: 11/09/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Innovative therapies based on autologous adipose-derived stem/stromal cells (ASC) are currently being evaluated for treatment of systemic sclerosis (SSc). Although paracrine angiogenic and antifibrotic effects are considered the predominant mechanisms of ASC therapeutic potential, the impact of SSc on ASC paracrine functions remains controversial. In this study, phenotype, senescence, differentiation potential, and molecular profile were determined in ASC from SSc patients (SSc-ASC) (n = 7) and healthy donors (HD-ASC) (n = 7). ASC were co-cultured in indirect models with dermal fibroblasts (DF) from SSc patients or endothelial cells to assess their pro-angiogenic and antifibrotic paracrine effects. The angiogenic activity of endothelial cells was measured in vitro using tube formation and spheroid assays. DF collagen and alpha smooth muscle actin (αSMA) content were quantified after five days of co-culture with ASC. Differentiation capacity, senescence, and mRNA profiles did not differ significantly between SSc-ASC and HD-ASC. SSc-ASC retained the ability to stimulate angiogenesis through paracrine mechanisms; however, functional assays revealed reduced potential compared to HD-ASC. DF fibrosis markers were significantly decreased after co-culture with SSc-ASC. Together, these results indicate that SSc effects do not significantly compromise the angiogenic and the antifibrotic paracrine properties of ASC, thereby supporting further development of ASC-based autologous therapies for SSc treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mélanie VELIER
- Aix Marseille University, INSERM, INRA, C2VN, 13005 Marseille, France
- Cell Therapy Department, Hôpital de la Conception, AP-HM, INSERM CIC BT 1409, 13005 Marseille, France
| | | | - Maxime ABELLAN
- Plastic Surgery Department, Hôpital de la Conception, AP-HM, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Pauline FRANCOIS
- Aix Marseille University, INSERM, INRA, C2VN, 13005 Marseille, France
- Cell Therapy Department, Hôpital de la Conception, AP-HM, INSERM CIC BT 1409, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Sandy EAP
- R&D Department, Macopharma, 59420 Mouvaux, France
| | | | - Baptiste BERTRAND
- Plastic Surgery Department, Hôpital de la Conception, AP-HM, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Aurélie DAUMAS
- Aix Marseille University, INSERM, INRA, C2VN, 13005 Marseille, France
- Internal Medicine Department, Hôpital Nord & Hôpital de la Timone, AP-HM, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Brigitte GRANEL
- Aix Marseille University, INSERM, INRA, C2VN, 13005 Marseille, France
- Internal Medicine Department, Hôpital Nord & Hôpital de la Timone, AP-HM, 13005 Marseille, France
| | | | | | - Jérémy MAGALON
- Aix Marseille University, INSERM, INRA, C2VN, 13005 Marseille, France
- Cell Therapy Department, Hôpital de la Conception, AP-HM, INSERM CIC BT 1409, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Florence SABATIER
- Aix Marseille University, INSERM, INRA, C2VN, 13005 Marseille, France
- Cell Therapy Department, Hôpital de la Conception, AP-HM, INSERM CIC BT 1409, 13005 Marseille, France
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13
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Ramirez GA, Manfredi AA, Maugeri N. Misunderstandings Between Platelets and Neutrophils Build in Chronic Inflammation. Front Immunol 2019; 10:2491. [PMID: 31695699 PMCID: PMC6817594 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.02491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2019] [Accepted: 10/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Regulated hemostasis, inflammation and innate immunity entail extensive interactions between platelets and neutrophils. Under physiological conditions, vascular inflammation offers a template for the establishment of effective intravascular immunity, with platelets providing neutrophils with an array of signals that increase their activation threshold, thus limiting collateral damage to tissues and promoting termination of the inflammatory response. By contrast, persistent systemic inflammation as observed in immune-mediated diseases, such as systemic vasculitides, systemic sclerosis, systemic lupus erythematosus or rheumatoid arthritis is characterized by platelet and neutrophil reciprocal activation, which ultimately culminates in the generation of thrombo-inflammatory lesions, fostering vascular injury and organ damage. Here, we discuss recent evidence regarding the multifaceted aspects of platelet-neutrophil interactions from bone marrow precursors to shed microparticles. Moreover, we analyse shared and disease-specific events due to an aberrant deployment of these interactions in human diseases. To restore communications between the pillars of the immune-hemostatic continuum constitutes a fascinating challenge for the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe A Ramirez
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy.,Division of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Diseases, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Angelo A Manfredi
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy.,Division of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Diseases, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Norma Maugeri
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy.,Division of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Diseases, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
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14
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Tombetti E, Marra AM. Lysyl-oxidase in systemic sclerosis-associated pulmonary arterial hypertension: a future still to be written. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2019; 58:1523-1525. [PMID: 31329976 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/kez161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2019] [Revised: 03/18/2019] [Accepted: 03/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Enrico Tombetti
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences L. Sacco, Milan University, Milan, Italy.,Vascular Sciences/Rheumatology, Imperial College London and Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
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15
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Piera-Velazquez S, Jimenez SA. Endothelial to Mesenchymal Transition: Role in Physiology and in the Pathogenesis of Human Diseases. Physiol Rev 2019; 99:1281-1324. [PMID: 30864875 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00021.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 307] [Impact Index Per Article: 61.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Numerous studies have demonstrated that endothelial cells are capable of undergoing endothelial to mesenchymal transition (EndMT), a newly recognized type of cellular transdifferentiation. EndMT is a complex biological process in which endothelial cells adopt a mesenchymal phenotype displaying typical mesenchymal cell morphology and functions, including the acquisition of cellular motility and contractile properties. Endothelial cells undergoing EndMT lose the expression of endothelial cell-specific proteins such as CD31/platelet-endothelial cell adhesion molecule, von Willebrand factor, and vascular-endothelial cadherin and initiate the expression of mesenchymal cell-specific genes and the production of their encoded proteins including α-smooth muscle actin, extra domain A fibronectin, N-cadherin, vimentin, fibroblast specific protein-1, also known as S100A4 protein, and fibrillar type I and type III collagens. Transforming growth factor-β1 is considered the main EndMT inducer. However, EndMT involves numerous molecular and signaling pathways that are triggered and modulated by multiple and often redundant mechanisms depending on the specific cellular context and on the physiological or pathological status of the cells. EndMT participates in highly important embryonic development processes, as well as in the pathogenesis of numerous genetically determined and acquired human diseases including malignant, vascular, inflammatory, and fibrotic disorders. Despite intensive investigation, many aspects of EndMT remain to be elucidated. The identification of molecules and regulatory pathways involved in EndMT and the discovery of specific EndMT inhibitors should provide novel therapeutic approaches for various human disorders mediated by EndMT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonsoles Piera-Velazquez
- Jefferson Institute of Molecular Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University , Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Sergio A Jimenez
- Jefferson Institute of Molecular Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University , Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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16
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Maria ATJ, Toupet K, Maumus M, Rozier P, Vozenin MC, Le Quellec A, Jorgensen C, Noël D, Guilpain P. Fibrosis Development in HOCl-Induced Systemic Sclerosis: A Multistage Process Hampered by Mesenchymal Stem Cells. Front Immunol 2018; 9:2571. [PMID: 30455706 PMCID: PMC6230680 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.02571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2018] [Accepted: 10/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: Skin fibrosis is the hallmark of systemic sclerosis (SSc) a rare intractable disease with unmet medical need. We previously reported the anti-fibrotic potential of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in a murine model of SSc. This model, based on daily intra-dermal injections of hypochlorite (HOCl) during 6 weeks, is an inducible model of the disease. Herein, we aimed at characterizing the development of skin fibrosis in HOCl-induced SSc (HOCl-SSc), and evaluating the impact of MSC infusion during the fibrogenesis process. Methods: After HOCl-SSc induction in BALB/c mice, clinical, histological and biological parameters were measured after 3 weeks (d21) and 6 weeks (d42) of HOCl challenge, and 3 weeks after HOCl discontinuation (d63). Treated-mice received infusions of 2.5 × 105 MSCs 3 weeks before sacrifice (d0, d21, d42). Results: HOCl injections induced a two-step process of fibrosis development: first, an ‘early inflammatory phase’, characterized at d21 by highly proliferative infiltrates of myofibroblasts, T-lymphocytes and macrophages. Second, a phase of ‘established matrix fibrosis’, characterized at d42 by less inflammation, but strong collagen deposition and followed by a third phase of ‘spontaneous tissue remodeling’ after HOCl discontinuation. This phase was characterized by partial fibrosis receding, due to enhanced MMP1/TIMP1 balance. MSC treatment reduced skin thickness in the three phases of fibrogenesis, exerting more specialized mechanisms: immunosuppression, abrogation of myofibroblast activation, or further enhancing tissue remodeling, depending on the injection time-point. Conclusion: HOCl-SSc mimics three fibrotic phenotypes of scleroderma, all positively impacted by MSC therapy, demonstrating the great plasticity of MSC, a promising cure for SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre T J Maria
- IRMB, Montpellier University, INSERM, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier, France.,Department of Internal Medicine-Multi-Organic Diseases, Saint-Eloi Hospital, Montpellier, France
| | - Karine Toupet
- IRMB, Montpellier University, INSERM, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Marie Maumus
- IRMB, Montpellier University, INSERM, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Pauline Rozier
- IRMB, Montpellier University, INSERM, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier, France.,Department of Internal Medicine-Multi-Organic Diseases, Saint-Eloi Hospital, Montpellier, France
| | - Marie-Catherine Vozenin
- Laboratory of Radiation Oncology Department, University Hospital of Lausanne (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Alain Le Quellec
- Department of Internal Medicine-Multi-Organic Diseases, Saint-Eloi Hospital, Montpellier, France
| | - Christian Jorgensen
- IRMB, Montpellier University, INSERM, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier, France.,Clinical Immunology and Osteoarticular Diseases Therapeutic Unit, Lapeyronie Hospital, Montpellier, France
| | - Danièle Noël
- IRMB, Montpellier University, INSERM, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier, France.,Clinical Immunology and Osteoarticular Diseases Therapeutic Unit, Lapeyronie Hospital, Montpellier, France
| | - Philippe Guilpain
- IRMB, Montpellier University, INSERM, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier, France.,Department of Internal Medicine-Multi-Organic Diseases, Saint-Eloi Hospital, Montpellier, France
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17
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Zhou X, Liu C, Lu J, Zhu L, Li M. 2-Methoxyestradiol inhibits hypoxia-induced scleroderma fibroblast collagen synthesis by phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/Akt/mTOR signalling. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2018; 57:1675-1684. [PMID: 29905853 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/key166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives To investigate the mechanism of 2-methoxyestradiol (2-ME) in inhibiting hypoxia-induced collagen synthesis of fibroblasts in SSc. Methods The expressions of hypoxia-inducible factor 1 alpha (HIF-1α) and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) in skin specimens derived from SSc patients and healthy volunteers were examined by immunohistochemistry. HIF-1α was knocked down by lentiviral transduction, and SSc dermal fibroblasts cultured under normoxic (21% O2) or hypoxic (1% O2) condition were treated with PI3K inhibitor LY294002, rapamycin or 2-ME (25 μM). The protein levels of HIF-1α, CTGF, collagen I, p-Akt and p-mTOR were examined by western blotting or immunofluorescence. Apoptosis and cell cycle of fibroblasts were assessed by flow cytometry and by measuring caspase 3 activity, and cell proliferation was evaluated by Cell Counting Kit-8. Results The expressions of HIF-1α and CTGF were increased in skins of SSc patients compared with healthy controls. Hypoxia up-regulated the protein levels of HIF-1α, CTGF and collagen I in SSc fibroblasts. In contrast, 2-ME inhibited PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway and down-regulated protein levels of HIF-1α, CTGF and collagen I. Knockdown of HIF-1α reduced expressions of CTGF and collagen I, which were further down-regulated by 2-ME intervention. Moreover, 2-ME promoted the apoptosis and inhibited the proliferation of SSc fibroblasts by arresting the cell cycle at the G2/M phase. Conclusion 2-ME reduced the production of CTGF and collagen I in SSc fibroblasts induced by hypoxia through PI3K/Akt/mTOR/HIF-1α signalling and inhibited the proliferation of fibroblasts. These findings suggested that 2-ME could be employed as a promising antifibrotic therapy for SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xing Zhou
- Department of Dermatology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chaofan Liu
- Department of Dermatology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jinghao Lu
- Department of Dermatology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lubing Zhu
- Department of Dermatology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ming Li
- Department of Dermatology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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18
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Tombetti E, Mason JC. Takayasu arteritis: advanced understanding is leading to new horizons. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2018; 58:206-219. [DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/key040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Enrico Tombetti
- Department of Immunology, Transplantation and Infections Disease, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University and San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Vascular Sciences and Rheumatology, Imperial Centre for Translational and Experimental Medicine, National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
| | - Justin C Mason
- Vascular Sciences and Rheumatology, Imperial Centre for Translational and Experimental Medicine, National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
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19
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Circulating angiostatin serum level in patients with systemic sclerosis. Postepy Dermatol Alergol 2017; 34:543-546. [PMID: 29422818 PMCID: PMC5799757 DOI: 10.5114/ada.2017.72459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2016] [Accepted: 11/08/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is achronic connective tissue disease characterized by microangiopathy with inadequate angiogenesis. Angiostatin (AS) is a potent antiangiogenic factor specifically inhibiting proliferation and inducing apoptosis of vascular endothelial cells. Aim To evaluate the level of angiostatin in the serum of patients with SSc. Material and methods Serum levels of AS were measured in 20 SSc patients and 12 healthy controls. Results A statistically significant difference in the serum levels of AS in SSc patients was observed compared to the control group (636.51 vs. 869.20 ng/ml; p = 0.012). Significant correlations between limited and disseminated SSc (lSSc/dSSc) were not found, however, a difference between lSSc and the control group was demonstrated (620.00 vs. 869.20 ng/ml; p = 0.011). The serum level of AS was not associated positively with organ changes caused by SSc. However, a statistically significant lower serum level of AS was observed in patients with SSc and no esophageal (p = 0.008) or pulmonary changes (p = 0.007) compared to the control group. Conclusions Our results reveal significant differences in AS level in SSc patients compared to the healthy controls, and suggest that a low level of AS may occur as a result of impaired angiogenesis.
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20
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Capobianco A, Cottone L, Monno A, Manfredi AA, Rovere-Querini P. The peritoneum: healing, immunity, and diseases. J Pathol 2017; 243:137-147. [PMID: 28722107 DOI: 10.1002/path.4942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2017] [Revised: 06/06/2017] [Accepted: 07/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The peritoneum defines a confined microenvironment, which is stable under normal conditions, but is exposed to the damaging effect of infections, surgical injuries, and other neoplastic and non-neoplastic events. Its response to damage includes the recruitment, proliferation, and activation of a variety of haematopoietic and stromal cells. In physiological conditions, effective responses to injuries are organized; inflammatory triggers are eliminated; inflammation quickly abates; and the normal tissue architecture is restored. However, if inflammatory triggers are not cleared, fibrosis or scarring occurs and impaired tissue function ultimately leads to organ failure. Autoimmune serositis is characterized by the persistence of self-antigens and a relapsing clinical pattern. Peritoneal carcinomatosis and endometriosis are characterized by the persistence of cancer cells or ectopic endometrial cells in the peritoneal cavity. Some of the molecular signals orchestrating the recruitment of inflammatory cells in the peritoneum have been identified in the last few years. Alternative activation of peritoneal macrophages was shown to guide angiogenesis and fibrosis, and could represent a novel target for molecular intervention. This review summarizes current knowledge of the alterations to the immune response in the peritoneal environment, highlighting the ambiguous role played by persistently activated reparative macrophages in the pathogenesis of common human diseases. Copyright © 2017 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annalisa Capobianco
- San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Division of Immunology, Transplantation, and Infectious Diseases, Milan, Italy
| | - Lucia Cottone
- San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Division of Immunology, Transplantation, and Infectious Diseases, Milan, Italy.,University College London, Genetics and Cell Biology of Sarcoma Group, London, UK
| | - Antonella Monno
- San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Division of Immunology, Transplantation, and Infectious Diseases, Milan, Italy
| | - Angelo A Manfredi
- San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Division of Immunology, Transplantation, and Infectious Diseases, Milan, Italy.,Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Patrizia Rovere-Querini
- San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Division of Immunology, Transplantation, and Infectious Diseases, Milan, Italy.,Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
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21
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Al-Soudi A, Kaaij MH, Tas SW. Endothelial cells: From innocent bystanders to active participants in immune responses. Autoimmun Rev 2017; 16:951-962. [PMID: 28698091 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2017.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2017] [Accepted: 06/05/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The endothelium is crucially important for the delivery of oxygen and nutrients throughout the body under homeostatic conditions. However, it also contributes to pathology, including the initiation and perpetuation of inflammation. Understanding the function of endothelial cells (ECs) in inflammatory diseases and molecular mechanisms involved may lead to novel approaches to dampen inflammation and restore homeostasis. In this article, we discuss the various functions of ECs in inflammation with a focus on pathological angiogenesis, attraction of immune cells, antigen presentation, immunoregulatory properties and endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT). We also review the current literature on approaches to target these processes in ECs to modulate immune responses and advance anti-inflammatory therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Al-Soudi
- Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Center, Department of Clinical Immunology & Rheumatology and Laboratory for Experimental Immunology, Academic Medical Center/University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - M H Kaaij
- Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Center, Department of Clinical Immunology & Rheumatology and Laboratory for Experimental Immunology, Academic Medical Center/University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - S W Tas
- Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Center, Department of Clinical Immunology & Rheumatology and Laboratory for Experimental Immunology, Academic Medical Center/University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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22
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Ayers NB, Sun CM, Chen SY. Transforming growth factor-β signaling in systemic sclerosis. J Biomed Res 2017; 32:3-12. [PMID: 29353817 PMCID: PMC5956255 DOI: 10.7555/jbr.31.20170034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a complex, multiorgan autoimmune disease of unknown etiology. Manifestation of the disease results from an interaction of three key pathologic features including irregularities of the antigen-specific immune system and the non-specific immune system, resulting in autoantibody production, vascular endothelial activation of small blood vessels, and tissue fibrosis as a result of fibroblast dysfunction. Given the heterogeneity of clinical presentation of the disease, a lack of universal models has impeded adequate testing of potential therapies for SSc. Regardless, recent research has elucidated the roles of various ubiquitous molecular mechanisms that contribute to the clinical manifestation of the disease. Transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) has been identified as a regulator of pathological fibrogenesis in SSc. Various processes, including cell growth, apoptosis, cell differentiation, and extracellular matrix synthesis are regulated by TGF-β, a type of cytokine secreted by macrophages and many other cell types. Understanding the essential role TGF-β pathways play in the pathology of systemic sclerosis could provide a potential outlet for treatment and a better understanding of this severe disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nolan B Ayers
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Chen-Ming Sun
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Shi-You Chen
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
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23
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Qi Q, Mao Y, Tian Y, Zhu K, Cha X, Wu M, Zhou X. Geniposide inhibited endothelial-mesenchymal transition via the mTOR signaling pathway in a bleomycin-induced scleroderma mouse model. Am J Transl Res 2017; 9:1025-1036. [PMID: 28386330 PMCID: PMC5375995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2016] [Accepted: 02/26/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
AIM Geniposide is an iridoid glycoside isolated from the gardenia plant. It has multiple biological activities. The roles of geniposide in systemic sclerosis (SSc) and in endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) are unclear. We investigated the protective effects of geniposide in a bleomycin-induced SSc mouse model, and its potential mechanisms. METHODS The effects of geniposide were evaluated as follows: (1) histological and immunochemical changes in mouse skin tissue; (2) changes in cellular morphology of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs); (3) expression of endothelial cell biomarkers (E-Cadherin, CD31, and CD34), mesenchymal cell markers (FSP1, Collagen, and α-SMA), and key factors of EndMT (Slug, Snail, and Twist) using real time PCR, Western blot, and immunofluorescence; (4) tube formation in HUVECs; (5) mTOR signaling pathway transcription factors using Western blot analysis. RESULTS Treatment with bleomycin induced up-regulation of mesenchymal cell biomarkers and down-regulation of endothelial cell biomarkers in in vivo and in vitro bleomycin-induced scleroderma models. Geniposide treatment suppressed these effects. Geniposide remedied bleomycin-induced dermal capillary loss and fibrosis in mice. The expression of key EndMT factors (Slug, Snail, and Twist) and the mTOR signaling pathway (mTOR and S6) were also attenuated by geniposide treatment. CONCLUSION Geniposide had protective effects on endothelial cells in the bleomycin-induced scleroderma mouse model. These effects may occur via inhibition of the mTOR signaling pathway activation. The results suggested that geniposide could be a potential candidate drug for treatment of vascular damage in SSc patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Qi
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou University of Chinese MedicineGuangzhou 510405, China
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunogenetics, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at HoustonHouston 77030, Texas, USA
| | - Yueping Mao
- Department of Dermatology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen UniversityGuangzhou 510120, China
| | - Yongzhen Tian
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou University of Chinese MedicineGuangzhou 510405, China
| | - Ke Zhu
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou University of Chinese MedicineGuangzhou 510405, China
| | - Xushan Cha
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou University of Chinese MedicineGuangzhou 510405, China
| | - Minghua Wu
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunogenetics, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at HoustonHouston 77030, Texas, USA
| | - Xiaodong Zhou
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunogenetics, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at HoustonHouston 77030, Texas, USA
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24
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Bartoloni E, Pucci G, Cannarile F, Battista F, Alunno A, Giuliani M, Cafaro G, Gerli R, Schillaci G. Central Hemodynamics and Arterial Stiffness in Systemic Sclerosis. Hypertension 2016; 68:1504-1511. [DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.116.08345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2016] [Revised: 08/29/2016] [Accepted: 09/15/2016] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Although microvascular disease is a hallmark of systemic sclerosis (SSc), a higher prevalence of macrovascular disease and a poorer related prognosis have been reported in SSc than in the general population. The simultaneous assessment of prognostically relevant functional properties of larger and smaller arteries, and their effects on central hemodynamics, has never been performed in SSc using the state-of-the-art techniques. Thirty-four women with SSc (aged 61±15 years, disease duration 17±12 years, and blood pressure 123/70±18/11 mm Hg) and 34 healthy women individually matched by age and mean arterial pressure underwent the determination of carotid-femoral (aortic) and carotid-radial (upper limb) pulse wave velocity (a direct measure of arterial stiffness), aortic augmentation (a measure of the contribution of reflected wave to central pulse pressure), and aortobrachial pulse pressure amplification (brachial/aortic pulse pressure) through applanation tonometry (SphygmoCor). Patients and controls did not differ by carotid-femoral or carotid-radial pulse wave velocity. Aortic augmentation index corrected for a heart rate of 75 bpm (AIx@75) was higher in women with SSc (30.9±16% versus 22.2±12%;
P
=0.012). Patients also had a lower aortobrachial amplification of pulse pressure (1.22±0.18 versus 1.33±0.25;
P
=0.041). SSc was an independent predictor of AIx@75 (direct) and pulse pressure amplification (inverse). Among patients, age, mean arterial pressure, and C-reactive protein independently predicted carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity. Age and mean arterial pressure were the only predictors of AIx@75. Women with SSc have increased aortic augmentation and decreased pulse pressure amplification (both measures of the contribution of reflected wave to central waveform) but no changes in aortic or upper limb arterial stiffness. Microvascular involvement occurs earlier than large artery stiffening in SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Bartoloni
- From the Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medicine, University of Perugia, Italy (E.B., G.P., F.C., F.B., A.A., M.G., G.C., R.G., G.S.); and Unit of Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Terni University Hospital, Italy (G.P., F.B., M.G., G.S.)
| | - Giacomo Pucci
- From the Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medicine, University of Perugia, Italy (E.B., G.P., F.C., F.B., A.A., M.G., G.C., R.G., G.S.); and Unit of Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Terni University Hospital, Italy (G.P., F.B., M.G., G.S.)
| | - Francesca Cannarile
- From the Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medicine, University of Perugia, Italy (E.B., G.P., F.C., F.B., A.A., M.G., G.C., R.G., G.S.); and Unit of Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Terni University Hospital, Italy (G.P., F.B., M.G., G.S.)
| | - Francesca Battista
- From the Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medicine, University of Perugia, Italy (E.B., G.P., F.C., F.B., A.A., M.G., G.C., R.G., G.S.); and Unit of Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Terni University Hospital, Italy (G.P., F.B., M.G., G.S.)
| | - Alessia Alunno
- From the Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medicine, University of Perugia, Italy (E.B., G.P., F.C., F.B., A.A., M.G., G.C., R.G., G.S.); and Unit of Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Terni University Hospital, Italy (G.P., F.B., M.G., G.S.)
| | - Marco Giuliani
- From the Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medicine, University of Perugia, Italy (E.B., G.P., F.C., F.B., A.A., M.G., G.C., R.G., G.S.); and Unit of Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Terni University Hospital, Italy (G.P., F.B., M.G., G.S.)
| | - Giacomo Cafaro
- From the Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medicine, University of Perugia, Italy (E.B., G.P., F.C., F.B., A.A., M.G., G.C., R.G., G.S.); and Unit of Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Terni University Hospital, Italy (G.P., F.B., M.G., G.S.)
| | - Roberto Gerli
- From the Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medicine, University of Perugia, Italy (E.B., G.P., F.C., F.B., A.A., M.G., G.C., R.G., G.S.); and Unit of Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Terni University Hospital, Italy (G.P., F.B., M.G., G.S.)
| | - Giuseppe Schillaci
- From the Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medicine, University of Perugia, Italy (E.B., G.P., F.C., F.B., A.A., M.G., G.C., R.G., G.S.); and Unit of Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Terni University Hospital, Italy (G.P., F.B., M.G., G.S.)
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Song KH, Cho SJ, Song JY. αvβ1 integrin as a novel therapeutic target for tissue fibrosis. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2016; 4:411. [PMID: 27867963 DOI: 10.21037/atm.2016.10.33] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Chronic tissue injury with fibrosis results in disruption of tissue architecture, organ dysfunction and eventually organ failure. Currently, therapeutic options for tissue fibrosis are severely limited and organ transplantation including high cost and co-morbidities is the only effective treatment for end-stage fibrotic disease. Therefore, it is imperative to develop effective anti-fibrotic agents. Integrins are transmembrane proteins and are major receptors for cell-extracellular matrix (ECM) and cell-cell adhesion. Modulation of these molecules, particularly αv integrin family, has exhibited profound effects on fibrosis in multiple organ and disease state. Based on the several studies, the integrins αvβ3, αvβ5, αvβ6, and αvβ8 have been known to modulate the fibrotic process via activation of latent transforming growth factor (TGF)-β in pre-clinical models of fibrosis. In this perspective, we reviewed the functions of αvβ1 integrin as a potentially useful target molecule for antifibrotic agent and introduced novel specific small-molecule inhibitors targeting this integrin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyung-Hee Song
- Division of Applied Radiation Bioscience, Korea Institute of Radiological & Medical Sciences, 75 Nowon-ro, Nowon-gu, Seoul 01812, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong-Jun Cho
- Division of Applied Radiation Bioscience, Korea Institute of Radiological & Medical Sciences, 75 Nowon-ro, Nowon-gu, Seoul 01812, Republic of Korea
| | - Jie-Young Song
- Division of Applied Radiation Bioscience, Korea Institute of Radiological & Medical Sciences, 75 Nowon-ro, Nowon-gu, Seoul 01812, Republic of Korea
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26
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Signalling by Transforming Growth Factor Beta Isoforms in Wound Healing and Tissue Regeneration. J Dev Biol 2016; 4:jdb4020021. [PMID: 29615587 PMCID: PMC5831781 DOI: 10.3390/jdb4020021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2016] [Revised: 06/14/2016] [Accepted: 06/17/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) signalling is essential for wound healing, including both non-specific scar formation and tissue-specific regeneration. Specific TGFβ isoforms and downstream mediators of canonical and non-canonical signalling play different roles in each of these processes. Here we review the role of TGFβ signalling during tissue repair, with a particular focus on the prototypic isoforms TGFβ1, TGFβ2, and TGFβ3. We begin by introducing TGFβ signalling and then discuss the role of these growth factors and their key downstream signalling mediators in determining the balance between scar formation and tissue regeneration. Next we discuss examples of the pleiotropic roles of TGFβ ligands during cutaneous wound healing and blastema-mediated regeneration, and how inhibition of the canonical signalling pathway (using small molecule inhibitors) blocks regeneration. Finally, we review various TGFβ-targeting therapeutic strategies that hold promise for enhancing tissue repair.
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27
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Maugeri N, Rovere-Querini P, Manfredi AA. Disruption of a Regulatory Network Consisting of Neutrophils and Platelets Fosters Persisting Inflammation in Rheumatic Diseases. Front Immunol 2016; 7:182. [PMID: 27242789 PMCID: PMC4871869 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2016.00182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2016] [Accepted: 04/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
A network of cellular interactions that involve blood leukocytes and platelets maintains vessel homeostasis. It plays a critical role in the response to invading microbes by recruiting intravascular immunity and through the generation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) and immunothrombosis. Moreover, it enables immune cells to respond to remote chemoattractants by crossing the endothelial barrier and reaching sites of infection. Once the network operating under physiological conditions is disrupted, the reciprocal activation of cells in the blood and the vessel walls determines the vascular remodeling via inflammatory signals delivered to stem/progenitor cells. A deregulated leukocyte/mural cell interaction is an early critical event in the natural history of systemic inflammation. Despite intense efforts, the signals that initiate and sustain the immune-mediated vessel injury, or those that enforce the often-prolonged phases of clinical quiescence in patients with vasculitis, have only been partially elucidated. Here, we discuss recent evidence that implicates the prototypic damage-associated molecular pattern/alarmin, the high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) protein in systemic vasculitis and in the vascular inflammation associated with systemic sclerosis. HMGB1 could represent a player in the pathogenesis of rheumatic diseases and an attractive target for molecular interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norma Maugeri
- San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Università Vita Salute San Raffaele , Milano , Italy
| | | | - Angelo A Manfredi
- San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Università Vita Salute San Raffaele , Milano , Italy
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