1
|
Wang YK, Weng HK, Mo FE. The regulation and functions of the matricellular CCN proteins induced by shear stress. J Cell Commun Signal 2023:10.1007/s12079-023-00760-z. [PMID: 37191841 DOI: 10.1007/s12079-023-00760-z] [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: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Shear stress is a frictional drag generated by the flow of fluid, such as blood or interstitial fluid, and plays a critical role in regulating cellular gene expression and functional phenotype. The matricellular CCN family proteins are dynamically regulated by shear stress of different flow patterns, and their expression significantly alters the microenvironment of cells. Secreted CCN proteins mainly bind to several cell surface integrin receptors to mediate their diverse functions in regulating cell survival, function, and behavior. Gene-knockout studies indicate major functions of CCN proteins in the cardiovascular and skeletal systems, the two primary systems in which CCN expressions are regulated by shear stress. In the cardiovascular system, the endothelium is directly exposed to vascular shear stress. Unidirectional laminar blood flow generates laminar shear stress, which promotes a mature endothelial phenotype and upregulates anti-inflammatory CCN3 expression. In contrast, disturbed flow generates oscillatory shear stress, which induces endothelial dysfunction through the induction of CCN1 and CCN2. Shear-induced CCN1 binds to integrin α6β1 and promotes superoxide production, NF-κB activation, and inflammatory gene expression in endothelial cells. Although the interaction between shear stress and CCN4-6 is not clear, CCN 4 exhibits a proinflammatory property and CCN5 inhibits vascular cell growth and migration. The crucial roles of CCN proteins in cardiovascular development, homeostasis, and disease are evident but not fully understood. In the skeletal system, mechanical loading on bone generates shear stress from interstitial fluid in the lacuna-canalicular system and promotes osteoblast differentiation and bone formation. CCN1 and CCN2 are induced and potentially mediate fluid shear stress mechanosensing in osteocytes. However, the exact roles of interstitial shear stress-induced CCN1 and CCN2 in bone are still not clear. In contrast to other CCN family proteins, CCN3 inhibits osteoblast differentiation, although its regulation by interstitial shear stress in osteocytes has not been reported. The induction of CCN proteins by shear stress in bone and their functions remain largely unknown and merit further investigation. This review discusses the expression and functions of CCN proteins regulated by shear stress in physiological conditions, diseases, and cell culture models. The roles between CCN family proteins can be compensatory or counteractive in tissue remodeling and homeostasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yang-Kao Wang
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, 1 University Road, Tainan, 70101, Taiwan
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 70101, Taiwan
| | - Hung-Kai Weng
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 70101, Taiwan
- Department of Orthopedics, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 70101, Taiwan
| | - Fan-E Mo
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, 1 University Road, Tainan, 70101, Taiwan.
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 70101, Taiwan.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Wang Y, Liu X, Xu Q, Xu W, Zhou X, Lin Z. CCN2 deficiency in smooth muscle cells triggers cell reprogramming and aggravates aneurysm development. JCI Insight 2023; 8:162987. [PMID: 36625347 PMCID: PMC9870081 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.162987] [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: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Vascular smooth muscle cell (SMC) phenotypic switching is widely recognized as a key mechanism responsible for the pathogenesis of several aortic diseases, such as aortic aneurysm. Cellular communication network factor 2 (CCN2), often upregulated in human pathologies and animal disease models, exerts myriad context-dependent biological functions. However, current understanding of the role of SMC-CCN2 in SMC phenotypic switching and its function in the pathology of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is lacking. Here, we show that SMC-restricted CCN2 deficiency causes AAA in the infrarenal aorta of angiotensin II-infused (Ang II-infused) hypercholesterolemic mice at a similar anatomic location to human AAA. Notably, the resistance of naive C57BL/6 WT mice to Ang II-induced AAA formation is lost upon silencing of CCN2 in SMC. Furthermore, the pro-AAA phenotype of SMC-CCN2-KO mice is recapitulated in a different model that involves the application of elastase-β-aminopropionitrile. Mechanistically, our findings reveal that CCN2 intersects with TGF-β signaling and regulates SMC marker expression. Deficiency of CCN2 triggers SMC reprograming associated with alterations in Krüppel-like factor 4 and contractile marker expression, and this reprograming likely contributes to the development of AAA in mice. These results identify SMC-CCN2 as potentially a novel regulator of SMC phenotypic switching and AA biology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu Wang
- Cardiology Division, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Xuesong Liu
- Cardiology Division, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.,Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Qian Xu
- Cardiology Division, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Wei Xu
- Cardiology Division, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Xianming Zhou
- Cardiology Division, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.,Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhiyong Lin
- Cardiology Division, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Circulating MicroRNA Profiling Identifies Distinct MicroRNA Signatures in Acute Ischemic Stroke and Transient Ischemic Attack Patients. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 24:ijms24010108. [PMID: 36613546 PMCID: PMC9820644 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010108] [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: 10/23/2022] [Revised: 12/04/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Transient ischemic attack (TIA) refers to a momentary neurologic deficit caused by focal cerebral, spinal or retinal ischemic insult. TIA is associated with a high risk of impending acute ischemic stroke (AIS), a neurologic dysfunction characterized by focal cerebral, spinal or retinal infarction. Understanding the differences in molecular pathways in AIS and TIA has merit for deciphering the underlying cause for neuronal deficits with long-term effects and high risks of morbidity and mortality. In this study, we performed comprehensive investigations into the circulating microRNA (miRNA) profiles of AIS (n = 191) and TIA (n = 61) patients. We performed RNA-Seq on serum samples collected within 24 hrs of clinical diagnosis and randomly divided the study populations into discovery and validation cohorts. We identified a panel of 11 differentially regulated miRNAs at FDR < 0.05. Hsa-miR-548c-5p, -20a-5p, -18a-5p, -484, -652-3p, -486-3p, -24-3p, -181a-5p and -222-3p were upregulated, while hsa-miR-500a-3p and -206 were downregulated in AIS patients compared to TIA patients. We also probed the previously validated gene targets of our identified miRNA panel to highlight the molecular pathways affected in AIS. Moreover, we developed a multivariate classifier with potential utilization as a discriminative biomarker for AIS and TIA patients. The underlying molecular pathways in AIS compared to TIA may be explored further in functional studies for therapeutic targeting in clinical translation.
Collapse
|
4
|
Sawma T, Shaito A, Najm N, Sidani M, Orekhov A, El-Yazbi AF, Iratni R, Eid AH. Role of RhoA and Rho-associated kinase in phenotypic switching of vascular smooth muscle cells: Implications for vascular function. Atherosclerosis 2022; 358:12-28. [DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2022.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
|
5
|
Kubota S, Kawata K, Hattori T, Nishida T. Molecular and Genetic Interactions between CCN2 and CCN3 behind Their Yin-Yang Collaboration. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23115887. [PMID: 35682564 PMCID: PMC9180607 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23115887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Cellular communication network factor (CCN) 2 and 3 are the members of the CCN family that conduct the harmonized development of a variety of tissues and organs under interaction with multiple biomolecules in the microenvironment. Despite their striking structural similarities, these two members show contrastive molecular functions as well as temporospatial emergence in living tissues. Typically, CCN2 promotes cell growth, whereas CCN3 restrains it. Where CCN2 is produced, CCN3 disappears. Nevertheless, these two proteins collaborate together to execute their mission in a yin–yang fashion. The apparent functional counteractions of CCN2 and CCN3 can be ascribed to their direct molecular interaction and interference over the cofactors that are shared by the two. Recent studies have revealed the mutual negative regulation systems between CCN2 and CCN3. Moreover, the simultaneous and bidirectional regulatory system of CCN2 and CCN3 is also being clarified. It is of particular note that these regulations were found to be closely associated with glycolysis, a fundamental procedure of energy metabolism. Here, the molecular interplay and metabolic gene regulation that enable the yin–yang collaboration of CCN2 and CCN3 typically found in cartilage development/regeneration and fibrosis are described.
Collapse
|
6
|
Role of miRNAs in diabetic neuropathy: mechanisms and possible interventions. Mol Neurobiol 2022; 59:1836-1849. [PMID: 35023058 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-021-02662-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Accelerating cases of diabetes worldwide have given rise to higher incidences of diabetic complications. MiRNAs, a much-explored class of non-coding RNAs, play a significant role in the pathogenesis of diabetes mellitus by affecting insulin release, β-cell proliferation, and dysfunction. Besides, disrupted miRNAs contribute to various complications, diabetic retinopathy, nephropathy, and neuropathy as well as severe conditions like diabetic foot. MiRNAs regulate various processes involved in diabetic complications like angiogenesis, vascularization, inflammations, and various signaling pathways like PI3K, MAPK, SMAD, and NF-KB signaling pathways. Diabetic neuropathy is the most common diabetic complication, characterized mainly by pain and numbness, especially in the legs and feet. MiRNAs implicated in diabetic neuropathy include mir-9, mir-106a, mir-146a, mir-182, miR-23a and b, miR-34a, and miR-503. The diabetic foot is the most common diabetic neuropathy, often leading to amputations. Mir-203, miR-23c, miR-145, miR-29b and c, miR-126, miR-23a and b, miR-503, and miR-34a are associated with diabetic foot. This review has been compiled to summarize miRNA involved in initiation, progression, and miRNAs affecting various signaling pathways involved in diabetic neuropathy including the diabetic foot. Besides, potential applications of miRNAs as biomarkers and therapeutic targets in this microvascular complication will also be discussed.
Collapse
|
7
|
Tejera-Muñoz A, Marquez-Exposito L, Tejedor-Santamaría L, Rayego-Mateos S, Orejudo M, Suarez-Álvarez B, López-Larrea C, Ruíz-Ortega M, Rodrigues-Díez RR. CCN2 Increases TGF-β Receptor Type II Expression in Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells: Essential Role of CCN2 in the TGF-β Pathway Regulation. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 23:375. [PMID: 35008801 PMCID: PMC8745763 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23010375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Revised: 12/24/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The cellular communication network factor 2 (CCN2/CTGF) has been traditionally described as a mediator of the fibrotic responses induced by other factors including the transforming growth factor β (TGF-β). However, several studies have defined a direct role of CCN2 acting as a growth factor inducing oxidative and proinflammatory responses. The presence of CCN2 and TGF-β together in the cellular context has been described as a requisite to induce a persistent fibrotic response, but the precise mechanisms implicated in this relation are not described yet. Considering the main role of TGF-β receptors (TβR) in the TGF-β pathway activation, our aim was to investigate the effects of CCN2 in the regulation of TβRI and TβRII levels in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). While no differences were observed in TβRI levels, an increase in TβRII expression at both gene and protein level were found 48 h after stimulation with the C-terminal fragment of CCN2 (CCN2(IV)). Cell pretreatment with a TβRI inhibitor did not modify TβRII increment induced by CCN2(VI), demonstrating a TGF-β-independent response. Secondly, CCN2(IV) rapidly activated the SMAD pathway in VSMCs, this being crucial in the upregulation of TβRII since the preincubation with an SMAD3 inhibitor prevented it. Similarly, pretreatment with the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitor erlotinib abolished TβRII upregulation, indicating the participation of this receptor in the observed responses. Our findings suggest a direct role of CCN2 maintaining the TGF-β pathway activation by increasing TβRII expression in an EGFR-SMAD dependent manner activation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Tejera-Muñoz
- Molecular and Cellular Biology in Renal and Vascular Pathology, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz-Universidad Autónoma Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (A.T.-M.); (L.M.-E.); (L.T.-S.); (S.R.-M.); (M.O.)
- Red de Investigación Renal (REDINREN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain; (B.S.-Á.); (C.L.-L.)
| | - Laura Marquez-Exposito
- Molecular and Cellular Biology in Renal and Vascular Pathology, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz-Universidad Autónoma Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (A.T.-M.); (L.M.-E.); (L.T.-S.); (S.R.-M.); (M.O.)
- Red de Investigación Renal (REDINREN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain; (B.S.-Á.); (C.L.-L.)
| | - Lucía Tejedor-Santamaría
- Molecular and Cellular Biology in Renal and Vascular Pathology, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz-Universidad Autónoma Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (A.T.-M.); (L.M.-E.); (L.T.-S.); (S.R.-M.); (M.O.)
- Red de Investigación Renal (REDINREN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain; (B.S.-Á.); (C.L.-L.)
| | - Sandra Rayego-Mateos
- Molecular and Cellular Biology in Renal and Vascular Pathology, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz-Universidad Autónoma Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (A.T.-M.); (L.M.-E.); (L.T.-S.); (S.R.-M.); (M.O.)
- Red de Investigación Renal (REDINREN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain; (B.S.-Á.); (C.L.-L.)
| | - Macarena Orejudo
- Molecular and Cellular Biology in Renal and Vascular Pathology, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz-Universidad Autónoma Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (A.T.-M.); (L.M.-E.); (L.T.-S.); (S.R.-M.); (M.O.)
| | - Beatriz Suarez-Álvarez
- Red de Investigación Renal (REDINREN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain; (B.S.-Á.); (C.L.-L.)
- Translational Immunology Laboratory, Health Research Institute of Asturias (ISPA), 33011 Oviedo, Spain
| | - Carlos López-Larrea
- Red de Investigación Renal (REDINREN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain; (B.S.-Á.); (C.L.-L.)
- Translational Immunology Laboratory, Health Research Institute of Asturias (ISPA), 33011 Oviedo, Spain
- Department of Immunology, Hospital Universitario Central De Asturias, 33011 Oviedo, Spain
| | - Marta Ruíz-Ortega
- Molecular and Cellular Biology in Renal and Vascular Pathology, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz-Universidad Autónoma Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (A.T.-M.); (L.M.-E.); (L.T.-S.); (S.R.-M.); (M.O.)
- Red de Investigación Renal (REDINREN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain; (B.S.-Á.); (C.L.-L.)
| | - Raúl R. Rodrigues-Díez
- Red de Investigación Renal (REDINREN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain; (B.S.-Á.); (C.L.-L.)
- Translational Immunology Laboratory, Health Research Institute of Asturias (ISPA), 33011 Oviedo, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Song Y, Xing H, Zhang Z, Felix LO. Detection of Carotid Atherosclerotic Intraplaque Neovascularization Using Superb Microvascular Imaging: A Meta-Analysis. JOURNAL OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE 2021; 40:2629-2638. [PMID: 33587302 DOI: 10.1002/jum.15652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Revised: 12/31/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Although superb microvascular imaging (SMI) (Toshiba/Canon, Tokyo, Japan) has enabled routine characterization of intraplaque neovascularization (IPN) features in patients with carotid stenosis, no reports have been published on the multicenter and large sample size research in this aspect. The efficacy of SMI in detecting carotid IPN has not been concluded. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of SMI comparing with contrast-enhanced carotid ultrasonography (CEUS) in the detection of carotid IPN or pathologic evaluations of IPN correlated with a history of stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA). METHODS Web of Science, Cochrane Library, PubMed, Embase, and Scopus were searched up to August 2020 to identify peer-reviewed human studies on the diagnostic accuracy of SMI in detecting IPN. For the selected study, the correlation coefficient R and Kappa index between SMI and CEUS in detecting IPN were calculated. The correlation coefficient R between SMI in identifying IPN and pathologic evaluations of IPN and the odds ratio of IPN detected by SMI and history of stroke or TIA were also extracted. The subgroup analysis was performed to indicate the source of heterogeneity. RESULTS Our search identified 11 reports enrolling a total of 605 carotid stenosis patients. Carotid IPN detected by SMI was significantly correlated with which detected by CEUS (R, 0.89; 95% CI, 0.80-0.94; P = .00, and Kappa index, 0.73; 95% CI, 0.67-0.80; P = .00). Notably, a significant correlation was observed in SMI in detecting IPN and pathologic evaluations of IPN (R, 0.52; 95% CI, 0.40-0.62; P = .00). The odds ratio of IPN detected by SMI and history of stroke or TIA was pooled summary with statistical significance (OR, 3.33; 95% CI, 1.78-6.23; P = .00). In subgroup analysis, lower heterogeneity was associated with the degree of carotid stenosis, patients from which country, and types of equipment. CONCLUSIONS SMI and CEUS display an excellent agreement in detecting carotid IPN. IPN detected by SMI shows high consistency with pathologic evaluations of IPN. Individuals with carotid IPN are more likely to develop stroke or TIA than those without carotid IPN.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yi Song
- Department of Ultrasound, First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China
| | - Hang Xing
- Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI, 02903, USA
| | - Zhiqi Zhang
- Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI, 02903, USA
| | - Lewis Oscar Felix
- Infectious Diseases Division, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI, 02903, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Zaykov V, Chaqour B. The CCN2/CTGF interactome: an approach to understanding the versatility of CCN2/CTGF molecular activities. J Cell Commun Signal 2021; 15:567-580. [PMID: 34613590 DOI: 10.1007/s12079-021-00650-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Cellular communication network 2 (CCN2), also known as connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) regulates diverse cellular processes, some at odds with others, including adhesion, proliferation, apoptosis, and extracellular matrix (ECM) protein synthesis. Although a cause-and-effect relationship between CCN2/CTGF expression and local fibrotic reactions has initially been established, CCN2/CTGF manifests cell-, tissue-, and context-specific functions and differentially affects developmental and pathological processes ranging from progenitor cell fate decisions and angiogenesis to inflammation and tumorigenesis. CCN2/CTGF multimodular structure, binding to and activation or inhibition of multiple cell surface receptors, growth factors and ECM proteins, and susceptibility for proteolytic cleavage highlight the complexity to CCN2/CTGF biochemical attributes. CCN2/CTGF expression and dosage in the local environment affects a defined community of its interacting partners, and this results in sequestration of growth factors, interference with or potentiation of ligand-receptor binding, cellular internalization of CCN2/CTGF, inhibition or activation of proteases, and generation of CCN2/CTGF degradome products that add molecular diversity and expand the repertoire of functional modules in the cells and their microenvironment. Through these interactions, different intracellular signals and cellular responses are elicited culminating into physiological or pathological reactions. Thus, the CCN2/CTGF interactome is a defining factor of its tissue- and context-specific effects. Mapping of new CCN2/CTGF binding partners might shed light on yet unknown roles of CCN2/CTGF and provide a solid basis for tissue-specific targeting this molecule or its interacting partners in a therapeutic context.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Viktor Zaykov
- Department of Cell Biology, State University of New York (SUNY), Downstate Health Science University, 450 Clarkson Avenue, MSC 5, Brooklyn, NY, 11203, USA
| | - Brahim Chaqour
- Department of Cell Biology, State University of New York (SUNY), Downstate Health Science University, 450 Clarkson Avenue, MSC 5, Brooklyn, NY, 11203, USA. .,Department of Ophthalmology, State University of New York (SUNY), Downstate Health Science University, 450 Clarkson Avenue, MSC 5, Brooklyn, NY, 11203, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Wang X, Chen J, Xu J, Xie J, Harris DCH, Zheng G. The Role of Macrophages in Kidney Fibrosis. Front Physiol 2021; 12:705838. [PMID: 34421643 PMCID: PMC8378534 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.705838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The phenotypic heterogeneity and functional diversity of macrophages confer on them complexed roles in the development and progression of kidney diseases. After kidney injury, bone marrow-derived monocytes are rapidly recruited to the glomerulus and tubulointerstitium. They are activated and differentiated on site into pro-inflammatory M1 macrophages, which initiate Th1-type adaptive immune responses and damage normal tissues. In contrast, anti-inflammatory M2 macrophages induce Th2-type immune responses, secrete large amounts of TGF-β and anti-inflammatory cytokines, transform into αSMA+ myofibroblasts in injured kidney, inhibit immune responses, and promote wound healing and tissue fibrosis. Previous studies on the role of macrophages in kidney fibrosis were mainly focused on inflammation-associated injury and injury repair. Apart from macrophage-secreted profibrotic cytokines, such as TGF-β, evidence for a direct contribution of macrophages to kidney fibrosis is lacking. However, under inflammatory conditions, Wnt ligands are derived mainly from macrophages and Wnt signaling is central in the network of multiple profibrotic pathways. Largely underinvestigated are the direct contribution of macrophages to profibrotic signaling pathways, macrophage phenotypic heterogeneity and functional diversity in relation to kidney fibrosis, and on their cross-talk with other cells in profibrotic signaling networks that cause fibrosis. Here we aim to provide an overview on the roles of macrophage phenotypic and functional diversity in their contribution to pro-fibrotic signaling pathways, and on the therapeutic potential of targeting macrophages for the treatment of kidney fibrosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoling Wang
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defect and Cell Regeneration, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
- Clinical Laboratory, Shanxi Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Taiyuan, China
| | - Jianwei Chen
- Centre for Transplant and Renal Research, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Jun Xu
- Department of General Surgery, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Jun Xie
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defect and Cell Regeneration, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - David C. H. Harris
- Centre for Transplant and Renal Research, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Guoping Zheng
- Centre for Transplant and Renal Research, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Chrysanthopoulou A, Gkaliagkousi E, Lazaridis A, Arelaki S, Pateinakis P, Ntinopoulou M, Mitsios A, Antoniadou C, Argyriou C, Georgiadis GS, Papadopoulos V, Giatromanolaki A, Ritis K, Skendros P. Angiotensin II triggers neutrophil extracellular traps release linking thromboinflammation with essential hypertension. JCI Insight 2021; 6:e148668. [PMID: 34324440 PMCID: PMC8492353 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.148668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Innate immunity and chronic inflammation are involved in atherosclerosis and atherothrombosis leading to target organ damage in essential hypertension (EH). However, the role of neutrophils in EH is still elusive. We investigated the association between angiotensin II (Ang II) and neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) in pathogenesis of EH. Plasma samples, kidney biopsies and surgical specimens of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) from EH patients were used. Cell-based assays, NETs/human aortic endothelial cells co-cultures and in situ studies were performed. Increased plasma levels of NETs and tissue factor (TF) activity were detected in untreated, newly-diagnosed, EH patients. Stimulation of control neutrophils with plasma from untreated EH patients generated TF-enriched NETs promoting endothelial collagen production. Ang II induced NETosis in vitro via a reactive oxygen species (ROS)/peptidylarginine deiminase type 4 and autophagy-dependent pathway. Circulating NETs and thrombin generation levels were reduced significantly in EH patients starting treatment with Ang II receptor blockers, whereas their plasma was unable to trigger procoagulant NETs. Moreover, TF-bearing NETotic neutrophils/remnants were accumulated in sites of interstitial renal fibrosis and in the subendothelial layer of AAA. These data reveal the important pathogenic role of Ang II/ROS/NETs/TF axis in EH, linking thromboinflammation with endothelial dysfunction and fibrosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Akrivi Chrysanthopoulou
- Laboratory of Molecular Hematology, Department of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Eugenia Gkaliagkousi
- Third Department of Internal Medicine, Papageorgiou General Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Antonios Lazaridis
- Third Department of Internal Medicine, Papageorgiou General Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Stella Arelaki
- Translational Functional Cancer Genomics, National Center for Tumor Disease, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | - Maria Ntinopoulou
- Laboratory of Molecular Hematology, Department of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Alexandros Mitsios
- Laboratory of Molecular Hematology, Department of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Christina Antoniadou
- First Department of Internal Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Christos Argyriou
- Department of Vascular Surgery, University Hospital of Alexandroupolis, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - George S Georgiadis
- Department of Vascular Surgery, University Hospital of Alexandroupolis, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Vasileios Papadopoulos
- First Department of Internal Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | | | | | - Panagiotis Skendros
- Laboratory of Molecular Hematology, Department of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Walther BK, Rajeeva Pandian NK, Gold KA, Kiliç ES, Sama V, Gu J, Gaharwar AK, Guiseppi-Elie A, Cooke JP, Jain A. Mechanotransduction-on-chip: vessel-chip model of endothelial YAP mechanobiology reveals matrix stiffness impedes shear response. LAB ON A CHIP 2021; 21:1738-1751. [PMID: 33949409 PMCID: PMC9761985 DOI: 10.1039/d0lc01283a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Endothelial mechanobiology is a key consideration in the progression of vascular dysfunction, including atherosclerosis. However mechanistic connections between the clinically associated physical stimuli, vessel stiffness and shear stress, and how they interact to modulate plaque progression remain incompletely characterized. Vessel-chip systems are excellent candidates for modeling vascular mechanobiology as they may be engineered from the ground up, guided by the mechanical parameters present in human arteries and veins, to recapitulate key features of the vasculature. Here, we report extensive validation of a vessel-chip model of endothelial yes-associated protein (YAP) mechanobiology, a protein sensitive to both matrix stiffness and shearing forces and, importantly, implicated in atherosclerotic progression. Our model captures the established endothelial mechanoresponse, with endothelial alignment, elongation, reduction of adhesion molecules, and YAP cytoplasmic retention under high laminar shear. Conversely, we observed disturbed morphology, inflammation, and nuclear partitioning under low, high, and high oscillatory shear. Examining targets of YAP transcriptional co-activation, connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) is strongly downregulated by high laminar shear, whereas it is strongly upregulated by low shear or oscillatory flow. Ankyrin repeat domain 1 (ANKRD1) is only upregulated by high oscillatory shear. Verteporfin inhibition of YAP reduced the expression of CTGF but did not affect ANKRD1. Lastly, substrate stiffness modulated the endothelial shear mechanoresponse. Under high shear, softer substrates showed the lowest nuclear localization of YAP whereas stiffer substrates increased nuclear localization. Low shear strongly increased nuclear localization of YAP across stiffnesses. Together, we have validated a model of endothelial mechanobiology and describe a clinically relevant biological connection between matrix stiffness, shear stress, and endothelial activation via YAP mechanobiology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brandon K Walther
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843, USA. and Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Houston Methodist Institute for Academic Medicine, Houston Methodist Research Institute, 6670 Bertner Ave., Houston, Texas 77030, USA.
| | | | - Karli A Gold
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843, USA.
| | - Ecem S Kiliç
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843, USA.
| | - Vineeth Sama
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina 29634, USA.
| | - Jianhua Gu
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Houston Methodist Institute for Academic Medicine, Houston Methodist Research Institute, 6670 Bertner Ave., Houston, Texas 77030, USA.
| | - Akhilesh K Gaharwar
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843, USA. and Department of Materials Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843, USA
| | - Anthony Guiseppi-Elie
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843, USA. and Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Houston Methodist Institute for Academic Medicine, Houston Methodist Research Institute, 6670 Bertner Ave., Houston, Texas 77030, USA. and ABTECH Scientific, Inc., Biotechnology Research Park, 800 East Leigh Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219, USA and Department of Biomedical Engineering, Anderson University, Anderson, South Carolina 29621, USA.
| | - John P Cooke
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Houston Methodist Institute for Academic Medicine, Houston Methodist Research Institute, 6670 Bertner Ave., Houston, Texas 77030, USA.
| | - Abhishek Jain
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843, USA. and Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Houston Methodist Institute for Academic Medicine, Houston Methodist Research Institute, 6670 Bertner Ave., Houston, Texas 77030, USA. and Department of Medical Physiology, College of Medicine, Texas A&M Health Science Center, Bryan, TX 77807, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Lee JH, Choi ST, Kang YJ. Kahweol, a Diterpenoid Molecule, Inhibits CTGF-Dependent Synthetic Phenotype Switching and Migration in Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26030640. [PMID: 33530626 PMCID: PMC7865488 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26030640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) phenotype switching from contractile to synthetic is essential for proliferation and migration in vascular pathophysiology. Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) is a matricellular protein involved in cell adhesion, migration, and proliferation. Kahweol, a diterpene molecule in arabica coffee beans, has been reported to have anti-inflammatory, antiproliferative, and apoptotic effects in many cells. However, in VSMCs, the effects of kahweol on CTGF activities have not been investigated. Thus, in this study, the effects and associated mechanisms of kahweol in CTGF-dependent phenotype switching and migration in VSMCs were examined. Experiments were performed on primary rat aortic smooth muscle cells and a rat VSMC line, A7r5. Western blot analysis was used to determine the protein levels. The mRNA levels of synthetic markers were measured by qRT-PCR. Migration of VSMCs was evaluated by wound healing and transwell assays. Kahweol reduced the angiotensin II (Ang II)-induced CTGF expression. Further, kahweol inhibited expressions of synthetic phenotype markers of VSMC. The kahweol-reduced synthetic marker protein levels were reversed by the administration of rCTGF. However, expressions of contractile phenotype markers of VSMC were not affected. Kahweol suppressed Ang II-stimulated VSMC migration. Moreover, kahweol downregulated Ang II-induced p-FAK, p-Erk, and Yes-associated protein (YAP) protein expressions. Taken together, in Ang II-stimulated VSMCs, kahweol inhibited CTGF-dependent synthetic phenotype switching and migration, with focal adhesion kinase (FAK), Erk, and YAP involved in the underlying mechanisms of the kahweol effects. These results suggest that kahweol has a potential as a therapeutic agent to inhibit CTGF, which is a molecular target in sclerogenic vascular disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeong Hee Lee
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Yeungnam University, 170 Hyunchung-Ro, Nam-Gu, Daegu 42415, Korea;
| | - Seok Tae Choi
- Department of Microbiology, Yeungnam University, 170 Hyunchung-Ro, Nam-Gu, Daegu 42415, Korea;
| | - Young Jin Kang
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Yeungnam University, 170 Hyunchung-Ro, Nam-Gu, Daegu 42415, Korea;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-53-640-6972; Fax: +82-53-656-7995
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Yan J, Wang WB, Fan YJ, Bao H, Li N, Yao QP, Huo YL, Jiang ZL, Qi YX, Han Y. Cyclic Stretch Induces Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells to Secrete Connective Tissue Growth Factor and Promote Endothelial Progenitor Cell Differentiation and Angiogenesis. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:606989. [PMID: 33363166 PMCID: PMC7755638 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.606989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) play a vital role in endothelial repair following vascular injury by maintaining the integrity of endothelium. As EPCs home to endothelial injury sites, they may communicate with exposed vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), which are subjected to cyclic stretch generated by blood flow. In this study, the synergistic effect of cyclic stretch and communication with neighboring VSMCs on EPC function during vascular repair was investigated. In vivo study revealed that EPCs adhered to the injury site and were contacted to VSMCs in the Sprague-Dawley (SD) rat carotid artery injury model. In vitro, EPCs were cocultured with VSMCs, which were exposed to cyclic stretch at a magnitude of 5% (which mimics physiological stretch) and a constant frequency of 1.25 Hz for 12 h. The results indicated that stretched VSMCs modulated EPC differentiation into mature endothelial cells (ECs) and promoted angiogenesis. Meanwhile, cyclic stretch upregulated the mRNA expression and secretion level of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) in VSMCs. Recombinant CTGF (r-CTGF) treatment promoted endothelial differentiation of EPCs and angiogenesis, and increased their protein levels of FZD8 and β-catenin. CTGF knockdown in VSMCs inhibited cyclic stretch-induced EPC differentiation into ECs and attenuated EPC tube formation via modulation of the FZD8/β-catenin signaling pathway. FZD8 knockdown repressed endothelial differentiation of EPCs and their angiogenic activity. Wnt signaling inhibitor decreased the endothelial differentiation and angiogenetic ability of EPCs cocultured with stretched VSMCs. Consistently, an in vivo Matrigel plug assay demonstrated that r-CTGF-treated EPCs exhibited enhanced angiogenesis; similarly, stretched VSMCs also induced cocultured EPC differentiation toward ECs. In a rat vascular injury model, r-CTGF improved EPC reendothelialization capacity. The present results indicate that cyclic stretch induces VSMC-derived CTGF secretion, which, in turn, activates FZD8 and β-catenin to promote both differentiation of cocultured EPCs into the EC lineage and angiogenesis, suggesting that CTGF acts as a key intercellular mediator and a potential therapeutic target for vascular repair.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jing Yan
- School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Institute of Mechanobiology and Medical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wen-Bin Wang
- School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Institute of Mechanobiology and Medical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yang-Jing Fan
- School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Institute of Mechanobiology and Medical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Han Bao
- School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Institute of Mechanobiology and Medical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Na Li
- School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Institute of Mechanobiology and Medical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qing-Ping Yao
- School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Institute of Mechanobiology and Medical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yun-Long Huo
- School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Institute of Mechanobiology and Medical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zong-Lai Jiang
- School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Institute of Mechanobiology and Medical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ying-Xin Qi
- School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Institute of Mechanobiology and Medical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yue Han
- School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Institute of Mechanobiology and Medical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Zhu Y, Almuntashiri S, Han Y, Wang X, R. Somanath P, Zhang D. The Roles of CCN1/CYR61 in Pulmonary Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21217810. [PMID: 33105556 PMCID: PMC7659478 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21217810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2020] [Revised: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
CCN1 (cysteine-rich 61, connective tissue growth factor, and nephroblastoma-1), previously named CYR61 (cysteine-rich angiogenic inducer 61) belongs to the CCN family of matricellular proteins. CCN1 plays critical roles in the regulation of proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, angiogenesis, and fibrosis. Recent studies have extensively characterized the important physiological and pathological roles of CCN1 in various tissues and organs. In this review, we summarize both basic and clinical aspects of CCN1 in pulmonary diseases, including acute lung injury (ALI), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), lung fibrosis, pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), lung infection, and lung cancer. We also emphasize the important challenges for future investigations to better understand the CCN1 and its role in physiology and pathology, as well as the questions that need to be addressed for the therapeutic development of CCN1 antagonists in various lung diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yin Zhu
- Clinical and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia and Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, Augusta, GA 30912, USA; (Y.Z.); (S.A.); (Y.H.); (P.R.S.)
| | - Sultan Almuntashiri
- Clinical and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia and Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, Augusta, GA 30912, USA; (Y.Z.); (S.A.); (Y.H.); (P.R.S.)
| | - Yohan Han
- Clinical and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia and Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, Augusta, GA 30912, USA; (Y.Z.); (S.A.); (Y.H.); (P.R.S.)
| | - Xiaoyun Wang
- Center for Vaccines and Immunology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA;
| | - Payaningal R. Somanath
- Clinical and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia and Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, Augusta, GA 30912, USA; (Y.Z.); (S.A.); (Y.H.); (P.R.S.)
- Department of Medicine, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Duo Zhang
- Clinical and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia and Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, Augusta, GA 30912, USA; (Y.Z.); (S.A.); (Y.H.); (P.R.S.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-706-721-6491; Fax: +1-706-721-3994
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Jafree DJ, Long DA. Beyond a Passive Conduit: Implications of Lymphatic Biology for Kidney Diseases. J Am Soc Nephrol 2020; 31:1178-1190. [PMID: 32295825 DOI: 10.1681/asn.2019121320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The kidney contains a network of lymphatic vessels that clear fluid, small molecules, and cells from the renal interstitium. Through modulating immune responses and via crosstalk with surrounding renal cells, lymphatic vessels have been implicated in the progression and maintenance of kidney disease. In this Review, we provide an overview of the development, structure, and function of lymphatic vessels in the healthy adult kidney. We then highlight the contributions of lymphatic vessels to multiple forms of renal pathology, emphasizing CKD, transplant rejection, and polycystic kidney disease and discuss strategies to target renal lymphatics using genetic and pharmacologic approaches. Overall, we argue the case for lymphatics playing a fundamental role in renal physiology and pathology and treatments modulating these vessels having therapeutic potential across the spectrum of kidney disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniyal J Jafree
- Developmental Biology and Cancer Programme, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom.,MB/PhD Programme, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - David A Long
- Developmental Biology and Cancer Programme, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Connective Tissue Growth Factor Is Related to All-cause Mortality in Hemodialysis Patients and Is Lowered by On-line Hemodiafiltration: Results from the Convective Transport Study. Toxins (Basel) 2019; 11:toxins11050268. [PMID: 31086050 PMCID: PMC6563290 DOI: 10.3390/toxins11050268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2019] [Revised: 04/26/2019] [Accepted: 05/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) plays a key role in the pathogenesis of tissue fibrosis. The aminoterminal fragment of CTGF is a middle molecule that accumulates in chronic kidney disease. The aims of this study are to explore determinants of plasma CTGF in hemodialysis (HD) patients, investigate whether CTGF relates to all-cause mortality in HD patients, and investigate whether online-hemodiafiltration (HDF) lowers CTGF. Data from 404 patients participating in the CONvective TRAnsport STudy (CONTRAST) were analyzed. Patients were randomized to low-flux HD or HDF. Pre-dialysis CTGF was measured by sandwich ELISA at baseline, after six and 12 months. CTGF was inversely related in multivariable analysis to glomerular filtration rate (GFR) (p < 0.001) and positively to cardiovascular disease (CVD) (p = 0.006), dialysis vintage (p < 0.001), interleukin-6 (p < 0.001), beta-2-microglobulin (p = 0.045), polycystic kidney disease (p < 0.001), tubulointerstitial nephritis (p = 0.002), and renal vascular disease (p = 0.041). Patients in the highest quartile had a higher mortality risk compared to those in the lowest quartile (HR 1.7, 95% CI: 1.02-2.88, p = 0.043). HDF lowered CTGF with 4.8% between baseline and six months, whereas during HD, CTGF increased with 4.9% (p < 0.001). In conclusion, in HD patients, CTGF is related to GFR, CVD and underlying renal disease and increased the risk of all-cause mortality. HDF reduces CTGF.
Collapse
|
18
|
CTGF-mediated ERK signaling pathway influences the inflammatory factors and intestinal flora in ulcerative colitis. Biomed Pharmacother 2019; 111:1429-1437. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2018.12.063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2018] [Revised: 11/28/2018] [Accepted: 12/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
|
19
|
Mentrup T, Theodorou K, Cabrera-Cabrera F, Helbig AO, Happ K, Gijbels M, Gradtke AC, Rabe B, Fukumori A, Steiner H, Tholey A, Fluhrer R, Donners M, Schröder B. Atherogenic LOX-1 signaling is controlled by SPPL2-mediated intramembrane proteolysis. J Exp Med 2019; 216:807-830. [PMID: 30819724 PMCID: PMC6446863 DOI: 10.1084/jem.20171438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2017] [Revised: 08/21/2018] [Accepted: 10/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The intramembrane proteases SPPL2a/b control pro-atherogenic signaling of membrane-bound proteolytic fragments derived from the oxLDL receptor LOX-1. In mice deficient for these proteases, plaque development and fibrosis is enhanced. This highlights SPPL2a/b as crucial players of a novel athero-protective mechanism, which is conserved in humans. The lectin-like oxidized LDL receptor 1 (LOX-1) is a key player in the development of atherosclerosis. LOX-1 promotes endothelial activation and dysfunction by mediating uptake of oxidized LDL and inducing pro-atherogenic signaling. However, little is known about modulators of LOX-1–mediated responses. Here, we show that the function of LOX-1 is controlled proteolytically. Ectodomain shedding by the metalloprotease ADAM10 and lysosomal degradation generate membrane-bound N-terminal fragments (NTFs), which we identified as novel substrates of the intramembrane proteases signal peptide peptidase–like 2a and b (SPPL2a/b). SPPL2a/b control cellular LOX-1 NTF levels which, following self-association via their transmembrane domain, can activate MAP kinases in a ligand-independent manner. This leads to an up-regulation of several pro-atherogenic and pro-fibrotic targets including ICAM-1 and the connective tissue growth factor CTGF. Consequently, SPPL2a/b-deficient mice, which accumulate LOX-1 NTFs, develop larger and more advanced atherosclerotic plaques than controls. This identifies intramembrane proteolysis by SPPL2a/b as a novel atheroprotective mechanism via negative regulation of LOX-1 signaling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Torben Mentrup
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany.,Biochemical Institute, Christian Albrechts University of Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Kosta Theodorou
- Department of Pathology, Cardiovascular Research Institute, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Florencia Cabrera-Cabrera
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany.,Biochemical Institute, Christian Albrechts University of Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Andreas O Helbig
- Systematic Proteome Research and Bioanalytics, Institute for Experimental Medicine, Christian Albrechts University of Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Kathrin Happ
- Biochemical Institute, Christian Albrechts University of Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Marion Gijbels
- Department of Pathology, Cardiovascular Research Institute, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands.,Department of Molecular Genetics, Cardiovascular Research Institute, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands.,Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Department of Medical Biochemistry, Amsterdam University Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Ann-Christine Gradtke
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany.,Biochemical Institute, Christian Albrechts University of Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Björn Rabe
- Biochemical Institute, Christian Albrechts University of Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Akio Fukumori
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Munich, Germany
| | - Harald Steiner
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Munich, Germany.,Biomedical Center, Metabolic Biochemistry, Ludwig Maximilians University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Andreas Tholey
- Systematic Proteome Research and Bioanalytics, Institute for Experimental Medicine, Christian Albrechts University of Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Regina Fluhrer
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Munich, Germany.,Biomedical Center, Metabolic Biochemistry, Ludwig Maximilians University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Marjo Donners
- Department of Pathology, Cardiovascular Research Institute, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Bernd Schröder
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany .,Biochemical Institute, Christian Albrechts University of Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Role of Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) and Its Ligands in Kidney Inflammation and Damage. Mediators Inflamm 2018; 2018:8739473. [PMID: 30670929 PMCID: PMC6323488 DOI: 10.1155/2018/8739473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2018] [Revised: 10/29/2018] [Accepted: 11/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is characterized by persistent inflammation and progressive fibrosis, ultimately leading to end-stage renal disease. Although many studies have investigated the factors involved in the progressive deterioration of renal function, current therapeutic strategies only delay disease progression, leaving an unmet need for effective therapeutic interventions that target the cause behind the inflammatory process and could slow down or reverse the development and progression of CKD. Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) (ERBB1), a membrane tyrosine kinase receptor expressed in the kidney, is activated after renal damage, and preclinical studies have evidenced its potential as a therapeutic target in CKD therapy. To date, seven official EGFR ligands have been described, including epidermal growth factor (EGF) (canonical ligand), transforming growth factor-α, heparin-binding epidermal growth factor, amphiregulin, betacellulin, epiregulin, and epigen. Recently, the connective tissue growth factor (CTGF/CCN2) has been described as a novel EGFR ligand. The direct activation of EGFR by its ligands can exert different cellular responses, depending on the specific ligand, tissue, and pathological condition. Among all EGFR ligands, CTGF/CCN2 is of special relevance in CKD. This growth factor, by binding to EGFR and downstream signaling pathway activation, regulates renal inflammation, cell growth, and fibrosis. EGFR can also be “transactivated” by extracellular stimuli, including several key factors involved in renal disease, such as angiotensin II, transforming growth factor beta (TGFB), and other cytokines, including members of the tumor necrosis factor superfamily, showing another important mechanism involved in renal pathology. The aim of this review is to summarize the contribution of EGFR pathway activation in experimental kidney damage, with special attention to the regulation of the inflammatory response and the role of some EGFR ligands in this process. Better insights in EGFR signaling in renal disease could improve our current knowledge of renal pathology contributing to therapeutic strategies for CKD development and progression.
Collapse
|
21
|
Toda N, Mukoyama M, Yanagita M, Yokoi H. CTGF in kidney fibrosis and glomerulonephritis. Inflamm Regen 2018; 38:14. [PMID: 30123390 PMCID: PMC6091167 DOI: 10.1186/s41232-018-0070-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2018] [Accepted: 05/08/2018] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Glomerulonephritis, which causes inflammation in glomeruli, is a common cause of end-stage renal failure. Severe and prolonged inflammation can damage glomeruli and lead to kidney fibrosis. Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) is a member of the CCN matricellular protein family, consisting of four domains, that regulates the signaling of other growth factors and promotes kidney fibrosis. Main body of the abstract CTGF can simultaneously interact with several factors with its four domains. The microenvironment differs depending on the types of cells and tissues and differentiation stages of these cells. The diverse biological actions of CTGF on various types of cells and tissues depend on this difference in microenvironment. In the kidney, CTGF is expressed at low levels in normal condition and its expression is upregulated by kidney fibrosis. CTGF expression is known to be upregulated in the extra-capillary and mesangial lesions of glomerulonephritis in human kidney biopsy samples. In addition to involvement in fibrosis, CTGF modulates the expression of inflammatory mediators, including cytokines and chemokines, through distinct signaling pathways, in various cell systems. In anti-glomerular basement membrane (GBM) glomerulonephritis, systemic CTGF knockout (Rosa-CTGF cKO) mice exhibit 50% reduction of proteinuria and decreased crescent formation and mesangial expansion compared with control mice. In addition to fibrotic markers, the glomerular mRNA expression of Ccl2 is increased in the control mice with anti-GBM glomerulonephritis, and this increase is reduced in Rosa-CTGF cKO mice with nephritis. Accumulation of MAC2-positive cells in glomeruli is also reduced in Rosa-CTGF cKO mice. These results suggest that CTGF may be required for the upregulation of Ccl2 expression not only in anti-GBM glomerulonephritis but also in other types of glomerulonephritis, such as IgA nephropathy; CTGF expression and accumulation of macrophages in the mesangial area have been documented in these glomerular diseases. CTGF induces the expression of inflammatory mediators and promotes cell adhesion. Short conclusion CTGF plays an important role in the development of glomerulonephritis by inducing the inflammatory process. CTGF is a potentiate target for the treatment of glomerulonephritis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Naohiro Toda
- 1Department of Nephrology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, 54 Shogoin Kawahara-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8507 Japan
| | - Masashi Mukoyama
- 2Department of Nephrology, Kumamoto University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Motoko Yanagita
- 1Department of Nephrology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, 54 Shogoin Kawahara-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8507 Japan
| | - Hideki Yokoi
- 1Department of Nephrology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, 54 Shogoin Kawahara-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8507 Japan
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Yu H, Ju J, Liu J, Li D. Aberrant expression of miR-663 and transforming growth factor-β1 in nasal polyposis in children. Exp Ther Med 2018; 15:4550-4556. [PMID: 29849780 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2018.5927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2016] [Accepted: 04/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to investigate the expression of microRNA (miR)-663 and its regulatory effects on the pathogenesis of nasal polyposis in children. Nasal polyp tissue, as well as serum and peripheral blood eosinophils were collected from 35 children diagnosed with nasal polypectomy between August 2013 and August 2015. As a control, the inferior nasal concha, serum and peripheral blood eosinophils were collected from 46 patients with nasal septal deviation complicated by inferior turbinate hypertrophy or patients with simple inferior turbinate hypertrophy who had undergone surgical removal of the inferior nasal concha. Reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) was used to measure the expression of miR-663 and transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) in the nasal polyp tissue, serum and peripheral blood eosinophils of patients with nasal polyposis and controls. Western blotting was used to measure the expression of TGF-β1 protein in nasal tissue and eosinophils and an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to measure serum level of TGF-β1 protein. A dual luciferase reporter assay was used to determine whether TGF-β1 was a target gene of miR-663. Compared with the control group, levels of TGF-β1 mRNA and protein were significantly increased in all three types of specimens from pediatric patients with nasal polyposis (P<0.05). miR-663 expression was significantly decreased in nasal polyp tissue and peripheral blood eosinophils (P<0.05). The dual luciferase reporter assay confirmed that TGF-β1 was a target gene of miR-663. The current study suggests that the upregulation of TGF-β1 may be associated with the downregulation of miR-663 in nasal polyposis in children. miR-663 may have regulatory effects on the pathogenesis of nasal polyposis by regulating TGF-β1 and may be developed as a genetic marker of nasal polyposis in children.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hailing Yu
- Department of Otolaryngology, The Women and Children's Hospital of Qingdao, Qingdao, Shandong 266033, P.R. China
| | - Jianbao Ju
- Department of Otolaryngology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266033, P.R. China
| | - Jingdong Liu
- Department of Medicine, The Women and Children's Hospital of Qingdao, Qingdao, Shandong 266033, P.R. China
| | - Da Li
- Department of Otolaryngology, The Women and Children's Hospital of Qingdao, Qingdao, Shandong 266033, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Balbino KP, Hermsdorff HHM, Bressan J. Polymorphism related to cardiovascular risk in hemodialysis subjects: a systematic review. J Bras Nefrol 2018; 40:179-192. [PMID: 29944163 PMCID: PMC6533983 DOI: 10.1590/2175-8239-jbn-3857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2017] [Accepted: 08/23/2017] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is one of the leading causes of mortality in hemodialysis (HD) subjects. In addition to the traditional risk factors that are common in these individuals, genetic factors are also involved, with emphasis on single nucleotide polymorphs (SNPs). In this context, the present study aims to systematically review the studies that investigated the polymorphisms associated with cardiovascular risk in this population. In general, the SNPs present in HD individuals are those of genes related to inflammation, oxidative stress and vascular calcification, also able of interfering in the cardiovascular risk of this population. In addition, polymorphisms in genes related to recognized risk factors for CVD, such as dyslipidemia, arterial hypertension and left ventricular hypertrophy, also influence cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karla Pereira Balbino
- Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Departamento de Nutrição e Saúde,
Viçosa, MG, Brasil
| | | | - Josefina Bressan
- Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Departamento de Nutrição e Saúde,
Viçosa, MG, Brasil
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Pi L, Fu C, Lu Y, Zhou J, Jorgensen M, Shenoy V, Lipson KE, Scott EW, Bryant AJ. Vascular Endothelial Cell-Specific Connective Tissue Growth Factor (CTGF) Is Necessary for Development of Chronic Hypoxia-Induced Pulmonary Hypertension. Front Physiol 2018. [PMID: 29535639 PMCID: PMC5835098 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2018.00138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic hypoxia frequently complicates the care of patients with interstitial lung disease, contributing to the development of pulmonary hypertension (PH), and premature death. Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), a matricellular protein of the Cyr61/CTGF/Nov (CCN) family, is known to exacerbate vascular remodeling within the lung. We have previously demonstrated that vascular endothelial-cell specific down-regulation of CTGF is associated with protection against the development of PH associated with hypoxia, though the mechanism for this effect is unknown. In this study, we generated a transgenic mouse line in which the Ctgf gene was floxed and deleted in vascular endothelial cells that expressed Cre recombinase under the control of VE-Cadherin promoter (eCTGF KO mice). Lack of vascular endothelial-derived CTGF protected against the development of PH secondary to chronic hypoxia, as well as in another model of bleomycin-induced pulmonary hypertension. Importantly, attenuation of PH was associated with a decrease in infiltrating inflammatory cells expressing CD11b or integrin αM (ITGAM), a known adhesion receptor for CTGF, in the lungs of hypoxia-exposed eCTGF KO mice. Moreover, these pathological changes were associated with activation of—Rho GTPase family member—cell division control protein 42 homolog (Cdc42) signaling, known to be associated with alteration in endothelial barrier function. These data indicate that endothelial-specific deletion of CTGF results in protection against development of chronic-hypoxia induced PH. This protection is conferred by both a decrease in inflammatory cell recruitment to the lung, and a reduction in lung Cdc42 activity. Based on our studies, CTGF inhibitor treatment should be investigated in patients with PH associated with chronic hypoxia secondary to chronic lung disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liya Pi
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Chunhua Fu
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Yuanquing Lu
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Junmei Zhou
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Marda Jorgensen
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Vinayak Shenoy
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, California Health Sciences University, Clovis, CA, United States
| | | | - Edward W Scott
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Andrew J Bryant
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Regulation and bioactivity of the CCN family of genes and proteins in obesity and diabetes. J Cell Commun Signal 2018; 12:359-368. [PMID: 29411334 DOI: 10.1007/s12079-018-0458-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2018] [Accepted: 01/29/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Across the years the CCNs have been increasingly implicated in the development of obesity, diabetes and its complications. Evidence for this is currently derived from their dysregulation in key metabolic pathological states in humans, animal and in vitro models, and also pre-clinical effects of their bioactivities. CCN2 is the best studied in this disease process and the other CCNs are yet to be better defined. Key steps where CCNs may play a pathogenic metabolic role include: (i) obesity and insulin resistance, where CCN2 inhibits fat cell differentiation in vitro and CCN3 may induce obesity and insulin resistance; (ii) elevated blood glucose levels to diabetes mellitus onset, where CCN2 may contribute to pancreatic beta cell and islet function; and (iii) in diabetes complications, such as nephropathy, retinopathy, liver disease (NAFLD/NASH), CVD and diabetes with heart failure. In contrast, CCN1, CCN2 and possibly CCN3, may have a reparative role in wound healing in diabetes, and CCN2 in islet cell development. In terms of CCN2 regulation by a diabetes metabolic environment and related mechanisms, the author's laboratory and others have progressively shown that advanced glycation-end products, protein kinase C isoforms, saturated fatty acids, reactive oxygen species and haemodynamic factors upregulate CCN2 in relevant cell and animal systems. Recent data has suggested that CCN2, CCN3 and CCN6 may affect energy homeostasis including in regulating glycolysis and mitochondrial function. This paper will address the current data implicating CCNs in diabetes and its complications, focusing on recent aspects with translational clinical relevance and future directions.
Collapse
|
26
|
Hayakawa K, Ikeda K, Fujishiro M, Yoshida Y, Hirai T, Tsushima H, Miyashita T, Morimoto S, Suga Y, Takamori K, Ogawa H, Sekigawa I. Connective Tissue Growth Factor Neutralization Aggravates the Psoriasis Skin Lesion: The Analysis of Psoriasis Model Mice and Patients. Ann Dermatol 2017; 30:47-53. [PMID: 29386832 PMCID: PMC5762476 DOI: 10.5021/ad.2018.30.1.47] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2016] [Revised: 07/24/2017] [Accepted: 07/31/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) is a multifunctional cellular protein and playing a role as a central mediator in tissue remodeling and fibrosis. The physiological function of CTGF in psoriasis is unknown. Objective The purpose of this study was to investigate the function of CTGF in psoriasis using the established imiquimod (IMQ)-induced psoriasis murine model and psoriasis patients. Methods Anti-CTGF monoclonal antibody was applied to IMQ induced psoriasis mice and those skin were clinically, pathologically and immunologically analyzed. Additionally, CTGF expression was analyzes using skin samples and plasma from psoriasis patients. Results CTGF expression was observed in the dermis from both IMQ-induced psoriatic mice and psoriasis patients. CTGF inhibition using an anti-CTGF antibody slightly worsened IMQ-induced dermatitis. In addition, the increase of CTGF showed tendency to suppress the psoriatic dermatitis through inhibition of suprabasal cells proliferation and macrophage infiltration in the skin. CTGF was also detected significantly higher in plasma from psoriasis patients comparing with healthy control. Conclusion Our findings suggest that CTGF could contribute to the healing rather than the worsening of psoriasis skin lesions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kunihiro Hayakawa
- Institutes for Environmental and Gender Specific Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan
| | - Keigo Ikeda
- Institutes for Environmental and Gender Specific Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan.,Department of Internal Medicine and Rheumatology, Juntendo University Urayasu Hospital, Chiba, Japan
| | - Maki Fujishiro
- Institutes for Environmental and Gender Specific Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan
| | - Yuko Yoshida
- Institutes for Environmental and Gender Specific Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan
| | - Takuya Hirai
- Institutes for Environmental and Gender Specific Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Tsushima
- Institutes for Environmental and Gender Specific Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan
| | - Tomoko Miyashita
- Department of Internal Medicine and Rheumatology, Juntendo University Urayasu Hospital, Chiba, Japan
| | - Shinji Morimoto
- Institutes for Environmental and Gender Specific Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan.,Department of Internal Medicine and Rheumatology, Juntendo University Urayasu Hospital, Chiba, Japan
| | - Yasushi Suga
- Department of Dermatology, Juntendo University Urayasu Hospital, Chiba, Japan
| | - Kenji Takamori
- Institutes for Environmental and Gender Specific Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan
| | - Hideoki Ogawa
- Institutes for Environmental and Gender Specific Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan
| | - Iwao Sekigawa
- Institutes for Environmental and Gender Specific Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan.,Department of Internal Medicine and Rheumatology, Juntendo University Urayasu Hospital, Chiba, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Ungvari Z, Valcarcel-Ares MN, Tarantini S, Yabluchanskiy A, Fülöp GA, Kiss T, Csiszar A. Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) in age-related vascular pathologies. GeroScience 2017; 39:491-498. [PMID: 28875415 DOI: 10.1007/s11357-017-9995-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2017] [Accepted: 08/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF, also known as CCN2) is a matricellular protein expressed in the vascular wall, which regulates diverse cellular functions including cell adhesion, matrix production, structural remodeling, angiogenesis, and cell proliferation and differentiation. CTGF is principally regulated at the level of transcription and is induced by mechanical stresses and a number of cytokines and growth factors, including TGFβ. In this mini-review, the role of age-related dysregulation of CTGF signaling and its role in a range of macro- and microvascular pathologies, including pathogenesis of aorta aneurysms, atherogenesis, and diabetic retinopathy, are discussed. A potential role of CTGF and TGFβ in regulation and non-cell autonomous propagation of cellular senescence is also discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zoltan Ungvari
- Reynolds Oklahoma Center on Aging, Department of Geriatric Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, 975 N. E. 10th Street, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA
- Translational Geroscience Laboratory, Department of Geriatric Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- Department of Medical Physics and Informatics, Faculty of Medicine and Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Marta Noa Valcarcel-Ares
- Reynolds Oklahoma Center on Aging, Department of Geriatric Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, 975 N. E. 10th Street, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA
- Translational Geroscience Laboratory, Department of Geriatric Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Stefano Tarantini
- Reynolds Oklahoma Center on Aging, Department of Geriatric Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, 975 N. E. 10th Street, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA
- Translational Geroscience Laboratory, Department of Geriatric Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Andriy Yabluchanskiy
- Reynolds Oklahoma Center on Aging, Department of Geriatric Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, 975 N. E. 10th Street, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA
- Translational Geroscience Laboratory, Department of Geriatric Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Gábor A Fülöp
- Reynolds Oklahoma Center on Aging, Department of Geriatric Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, 975 N. E. 10th Street, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA
- Translational Geroscience Laboratory, Department of Geriatric Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- Division of Clinical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Tamas Kiss
- Reynolds Oklahoma Center on Aging, Department of Geriatric Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, 975 N. E. 10th Street, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA
- Department of Medical Physics and Informatics, Faculty of Medicine and Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Anna Csiszar
- Reynolds Oklahoma Center on Aging, Department of Geriatric Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, 975 N. E. 10th Street, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA.
- Translational Geroscience Laboratory, Department of Geriatric Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA.
- Department of Medical Physics and Informatics, Faculty of Medicine and Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Nakajima H, Mochizuki N. Flow pattern-dependent endothelial cell responses through transcriptional regulation. Cell Cycle 2017; 16:1893-1901. [PMID: 28820314 DOI: 10.1080/15384101.2017.1364324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Blood flow provides endothelial cells (ECs) lining the inside of blood vessels with mechanical stimuli as well as humoral stimuli. Fluid shear stress, the frictional force between flowing blood and ECs, is recognized as an essential mechanical cue for vascular growth, remodeling, and homeostasis. ECs differentially respond to distinct flow patterns. High laminar shear flow leads to inhibition of cell cycle progression and stabilizes vessels, whereas low shear flow or disturbed flow leads to increased turnover of ECs and inflammatory responses of ECs prone to atherogenic. These differences of EC responses dependent on flow pattern are mainly ascribed to distinct patterns of gene expression. In this review, we highlight flow pattern-dependent transcriptional regulation in ECs by focusing on KLF2 and NFκB, major transcription factors responding to laminar flow and disturbed flow, respectively. Moreover, we introduce roles of a new flow-responsive transcriptional co-regulator, YAP, in blood vessel maintenance and discuss how these transcriptional regulators are spatiotemporally regulated by flow and then regulate EC functions in normal and pathological conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hiroyuki Nakajima
- a Department of Cell Biology, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center Research Institute , Suita , Osaka , Japan
| | - Naoki Mochizuki
- a Department of Cell Biology, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center Research Institute , Suita , Osaka , Japan.,b AMED-CREST. National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center , Suita , Osaka , Japan
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Yao Y, Li B, Fu C, Teng G, Ma G, Liu N. Anti-connective tissue growth factor detects and reduces plaque inflammation in early-stage carotid atherosclerotic lesions. NANOMEDICINE-NANOTECHNOLOGY BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE 2017; 13:2385-2394. [PMID: 28782610 DOI: 10.1016/j.nano.2017.07.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2017] [Revised: 06/10/2017] [Accepted: 07/24/2017] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
This study explored connective tissue growth factor (CTGF)-targeted ultrasmall superparamagnetic iron oxides (USPIOs) for noninvasive MRI of CTGF within carotid atherosclerotic lesions in apoE-deficient (apoE-/-) mice. Anti-CTGF polyclonal and nonspecific IgG antibodies were conjugated to polyethylene glycol-coated USPIOs, and apoE-/- carotid partial ligation-model mice were imaged via MRI before and after contrast administration. ApoE-/- mice were treated with CTGF-neutralizing antibodies for 3 weeks. Carotid artery diameter and plaque volume were measured via MRI in IgG and CTGF antibody-treated groups. Anti-CTGF-USPIO-treated macrophages showed the greatest iron uptake. MRI signal loss was observed in carotid atherosclerotic lesions 24 h after anti-CTGF-USPIO administration, consistent with the presence of nanoparticles, as indicated by pathological examinations. Atheromata in anti-CTGF-treated mice showed reduced macrophage deposition, CTGF expression, and plaque volume. Anti-CTGF-USPIOs can be used for the direct detection of CTGF and imaging of atherosclerotic lesions in vivo. CTGF is a potential therapeutic target for treating atherosclerosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuyu Yao
- Department of Cardiology, Zhongda Hospital, Medical School of Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210009, China.
| | - Bing Li
- Department of Cardiology, Zhongda Hospital, Medical School of Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210009, China
| | - Cong Fu
- Department of Cardiology, Zhongda Hospital, Medical School of Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210009, China
| | - Gaojun Teng
- Jiangsu Key Lab of Molecular and Function Imaging, Department of Radiology, Zhongda Hospital, Medical School of Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Genshan Ma
- Department of Cardiology, Zhongda Hospital, Medical School of Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210009, China
| | - Naifeng Liu
- Department of Cardiology, Zhongda Hospital, Medical School of Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210009, China
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Bickelhaupt S, Erbel C, Timke C, Wirkner U, Dadrich M, Flechsig P, Tietz A, Pföhler J, Gross W, Peschke P, Hoeltgen L, Katus HA, Gröne HJ, Nicolay NH, Saffrich R, Debus J, Sternlicht MD, Seeley TW, Lipson KE, Huber PE. Effects of CTGF Blockade on Attenuation and Reversal of Radiation-Induced Pulmonary Fibrosis. J Natl Cancer Inst 2017; 109:3064590. [PMID: 28376190 DOI: 10.1093/jnci/djw339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2015] [Accepted: 12/22/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Radiotherapy is a mainstay for the treatment of lung cancer that can induce pneumonitis or pulmonary fibrosis. The matricellular protein connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) is a central mediator of tissue remodeling. Methods A radiation-induced mouse model of pulmonary fibrosis was used to determine if transient administration of a human antibody to CTGF (FG-3019) started at different times before or after 20 Gy thoracic irradiation reduced acute and chronic radiation toxicity. Mice (25 mice/group; 10 mice/group in a confirmation study) were examined by computed tomography, histology, gene expression changes, and for survival. In vitro experiments were performed to directly study the interaction of CTGF blockade and radiation. All statistical tests were two-sided. Results Administration of FG-3019 prevented (∼50%-80%) or reversed (∼50%) lung remodeling, improved lung function, improved mouse health, and rescued mice from lethal irradiation ( P < .01). Importantly, when antibody treatment was initiated at 16 weeks after thoracic irradiation, FG-3019 reversed established lung remodeling and restored lung function. CTGF blockade abrogated M2 polarized macrophage influx, normalized radiation-induced gene expression changes, and reduced myofibroblast abundance and Osteopontin expression. Conclusion These results indicate that blocking CTGF attenuates radiation-induced pulmonary remodeling and can reverse the process after initiation. CTGF has a central role in radiation-induced fibrogenesis, and FG-3019 may benefit patients with radiation-induced pulmonary fibrosis or patients with other forms or origin of chronic fibrotic diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Bickelhaupt
- Departments of Molecular and Radiation Oncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.,Departments of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Christian Erbel
- Departments of Cardiology, University Hospital Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Carmen Timke
- Departments of Molecular and Radiation Oncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.,Departments of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Ute Wirkner
- Departments of Molecular and Radiation Oncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Monika Dadrich
- Departments of Molecular and Radiation Oncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Paul Flechsig
- Departments of Molecular and Radiation Oncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Alexandra Tietz
- Departments of Molecular and Radiation Oncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Johanna Pföhler
- Departments of Molecular and Radiation Oncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Gross
- Departments of Experimental Surgery, University Hospital Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Peter Peschke
- Departments of Molecular and Radiation Oncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Line Hoeltgen
- Departments of Molecular and Radiation Oncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Hugo A Katus
- Departments of Cardiology, University Hospital Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Hermann-Josef Gröne
- Departments of Molecular Pathology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Nils H Nicolay
- Departments of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Rainer Saffrich
- Departments of Hematology and Oncology, University Hospital Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jürgen Debus
- Departments of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Mark D Sternlicht
- Departments of Molecular Biology, FibroGen, Inc., San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Todd W Seeley
- Departments of Molecular Biology, FibroGen, Inc., San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | - Peter E Huber
- Departments of Molecular and Radiation Oncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.,Departments of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
McEvoy C, de Gaetano M, Giffney HE, Bahar B, Cummins EP, Brennan EP, Barry M, Belton O, Godson CG, Murphy EP, Crean D. NR4A Receptors Differentially Regulate NF-κB Signaling in Myeloid Cells. Front Immunol 2017; 8:7. [PMID: 28167941 PMCID: PMC5256039 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.00007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2016] [Accepted: 01/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Dysregulation of inflammatory responses is a hallmark of multiple diseases such as atherosclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis. As constitutively active transcription factors, NR4A nuclear receptors function to control the magnitude of inflammatory responses and in chronic inflammatory disease can be protective or pathogenic. Within this study, we demonstrate that TLR4 stimulation using the endotoxin lipopolysaccharide (LPS) rapidly enhances NR4A1–3 expression in human and murine, primary and immortalized myeloid cells with concomitant gene transcription and protein secretion of MIP-3α, a central chemokine implicated in numerous pathologies. Deficiency of NR4A2 and NR4A3 in human and murine myeloid cells reveals that both receptors function as positive regulators of enhanced MIP-3α expression. In contrast, within the same cell types and conditions, altered NR4A activity leads to suppression of LPS-induced MCP-1 gene and protein expression. An equivalent pattern of inflammatory gene regulation is replicated in TNFα-treated myeloid cells. We show that NF-κB is the critical regulator of NR4A1–3, MIP-3α, and MCP-1 during TLR4 stimulation in myeloid cells and highlight a parallel mechanism whereby NR4A activity can repress or enhance NF-κB target gene expression simultaneously. Mechanistic insight reveals that NR4A2 does not require DNA-binding capacity in order to enhance or repress NF-κB target gene expression simultaneously and establishes a role for NF-κB family member Relb as a novel NR4A target gene involved in the positive regulation of MIP-3α. Thus, our data reveal a dynamic role for NR4A receptors concurrently enhancing and repressing NF-κB activity in myeloid cells leading to altered transcription of key inflammatory mediators.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caitriona McEvoy
- School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland; Conway Institute for Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland; Diabetes and Complications Research Centre, Conway Institute for Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Monica de Gaetano
- School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland; Conway Institute for Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland; Diabetes and Complications Research Centre, Conway Institute for Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Hugh E Giffney
- Conway Institute for Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland; School of Veterinary Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Bojlul Bahar
- International Institute of Nutritional Sciences and Applied Food Safety Studies, University of Central Lancashire , Preston , UK
| | - Eoin P Cummins
- School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland; Conway Institute for Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Eoin P Brennan
- School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland; Conway Institute for Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland; Diabetes and Complications Research Centre, Conway Institute for Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Mary Barry
- St. Vincent's University Hospital , Dublin , Ireland
| | - Orina Belton
- Diabetes and Complications Research Centre, Conway Institute for Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin , Dublin , Ireland
| | - Catherine G Godson
- School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland; Conway Institute for Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland; Diabetes and Complications Research Centre, Conway Institute for Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Evelyn P Murphy
- Conway Institute for Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland; School of Veterinary Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Daniel Crean
- Conway Institute for Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland; Diabetes and Complications Research Centre, Conway Institute for Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland; School of Veterinary Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Jiang J, Leong NL, Khalique U, Phan TM, Lyons KM, Luck JV. Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF/CCN2) in haemophilic arthropathy and arthrofibrosis: a histological analysis. Haemophilia 2016; 22:e527-e536. [PMID: 27704689 DOI: 10.1111/hae.13049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Joint haemorrhage is the principal clinical manifestation of haemophilia frequently leading to advanced arthropathy and arthrofibrosis, resulting in severe disability. The degree and prevalence of arthrofibrosis in hemophilic arthropathy is more severe than in other forms of arthropathy. Expression of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) has been linked to many fibrotic diseases, but has not been studied in the context of haemophilic arthropathy. AIM We aim to compare synovial tissues histologically from haemophilia and osteoarthritis patients with advanced arthropathy in order to compare expression of proteins that are possibly aetiologic in the development of arthrofibrosis. METHODS Human synovial tissues were obtained from 10 haemophilia and 10 osteoarthritis patients undergoing joint surgery and processed for histology and immunohistochemistry. RESULTS All samples from haemophilia patients had synovitis with hypertrophy and hyperplasia of synovial villi. Histologically, synovial tissues contained hyperplastic villi with increased cellularity and abundant haemosiderin- and ferritin-pigmented macrophage-like cells (HMCs), with a perivascular localization in the sub-surface layer. CTGF staining was observed in the surface layer and sub-surface layer in all haemophilia patients, exclusively co-localizing with HMCs. Quantification showed that the extent of CTGF-positive areas was correlated with the degree of detection of HMCs. CTGF was not observed in any of the samples from osteoarthritis patients. CONCLUSION Using histological analysis, we showed that CTGF expression is elevated in haemophilia patients with arthrofibrosis and absent in patients with osteoarthritis. Additionally, we found that CTGF is always associated with haemosiderin-pigmented macrophage-like cells, which suggests that CTGF is produced by synovial A cells following the uptake of blood breakdown products.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J Jiang
- Hemophilia Treatment Center at Orthopaedic Institute for Children, Los Angeles, CA, USA.,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - N L Leong
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - U Khalique
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - T M Phan
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - K M Lyons
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - J V Luck
- Hemophilia Treatment Center at Orthopaedic Institute for Children, Los Angeles, CA, USA.,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Xu S, Koroleva M, Yin M, Jin ZG. Atheroprotective laminar flow inhibits Hippo pathway effector YAP in endothelial cells. Transl Res 2016; 176:18-28.e2. [PMID: 27295628 PMCID: PMC5116386 DOI: 10.1016/j.trsl.2016.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2015] [Revised: 04/25/2016] [Accepted: 05/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is a mechanobiology-related disease that preferentially develops in the aortic arch and arterial branches, which are exposed to disturbed/turbulent blood flow but less in thoracic aorta where the flow pattern is steady laminar flow (LF). Increasing evidence supports that steady LF with high shear stress is protective against atherosclerosis. However, the molecular mechanisms of LF-mediated atheroprotection remain incompletely understood. Hippo/YAP (yes-associated protein) pathway senses and effects mechanical cues and has been reported to be a master regulator of cell proliferation, differentiation, and tissue homeostasis. Here, we show that LF inhibits YAP activity in endothelial cells (ECs). We observed that YAP is highly expressed in mouse EC-enriched tissues (lung and aorta) and in human ECs. Furthermore, we found in apolipoprotein E deficient (ApoE(-/-)) mice and human ECs, LF decreased the level of nuclear YAP protein and YAP target gene expression (connective tissue growth factor and cysteine-rich protein 61) through promoting Hippo kinases LATS1/2-dependent YAP (Serine 127) phosphorylation. Functionally, we revealed that YAP depletion in ECs phenocopying LF responses, reduced the expression of cell cycle gene cyclin A1 (CCNA1) and proinflammatory gene CCL2 (MCP-1). Taken together, we demonstrate that atheroprotective LF inhibits endothelial YAP activation, which may contribute to LF-mediated ECs quiescence and anti-inflammation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Suowen Xu
- Aab Cardiovascular Research Institute, Department of Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY
| | - Marina Koroleva
- Aab Cardiovascular Research Institute, Department of Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY
| | - Meimei Yin
- Aab Cardiovascular Research Institute, Department of Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY
| | - Zheng Gen Jin
- Aab Cardiovascular Research Institute, Department of Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Flow-dependent YAP/TAZ activities regulate endothelial phenotypes and atherosclerosis. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2016; 113:11525-11530. [PMID: 27671657 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1613121113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 307] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The focal nature of atherosclerotic lesions suggests an important role of local hemodynamic environment. Recent studies have demonstrated significant roles of Yes-associated protein (YAP) and transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ) in mediating mechanotransduction and vascular homeostasis. The objective of this study is to investigate the functional role of YAP/TAZ in the flow regulation of atheroprone endothelial phenotypes and the consequential development of atherosclerotic lesions. We found that exposure of cultured endothelial cells (ECs) to the atheroprone disturbed flow resulted in YAP/TAZ activation and translocation into EC nucleus to up-regulate the target genes, including cysteine-rich angiogenic inducer 61 (CYR61), connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), and ankyrin repeat domain 1 (ANKRD1). In contrast, the athero-protective laminar flow suppressed YAP/TAZ activities. En face analysis of mouse arteries demonstrated an increased nuclear localization of YAP/TAZ and elevated levels of the target genes in the endothelium in atheroprone areas compared with athero-protective areas. YAP/TAZ knockdown significantly attenuated the disturbed flow induction of EC proliferative and proinflammatory phenotypes, whereas overexpression of constitutively active YAP was sufficient to promote EC proliferation and inflammation. In addition, treatment with statin, an antiatherosclerotic drug, inhibited YAP/TAZ activities to diminish the disturbed flow-induced proliferation and inflammation. In vivo blockade of YAP/TAZ translation by morpholino oligos significantly reduced endothelial inflammation and the size of atherosclerotic lesions. Our results demonstrate a critical role of the activation of YAP/TAZ by disturbed flow in promoting atheroprone phenotypes and atherosclerotic lesion development. Therefore, inhibition of YAP/TAZ activation is a promising athero-protective therapeutic strategy.
Collapse
|
35
|
Gerritsen KG, Falke LL, van Vuuren SH, Leeuwis JW, Broekhuizen R, Nguyen TQ, de Borst GJ, Nathoe HM, Verhaar MC, Kok RJ, Goldschmeding R, Visseren FL. Plasma CTGF is independently related to an increased risk of cardiovascular events and mortality in patients with atherosclerotic disease: the SMART study. Growth Factors 2016; 34:149-58. [PMID: 27686612 DOI: 10.1080/08977194.2016.1210142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) plays a key role in tissue fibrogenesis and growing evidence indicates a pathogenic role in cardiovascular disease. Aim of this study is to investigate the association of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF/CCN2) with cardiovascular risk and mortality in patients with manifest vascular disease. METHODS AND RESULTS Plasma CTGF was measured by ELISA in a prospective cohort study of 1227 patients with manifest vascular disease (mean age 59.0 ± 9.9 years). Linear regression analysis was performed to quantify the association between CTGF and cardiovascular risk factors. Results are expressed as beta (β) regression coefficients with 95% confidence intervals (CI). The relation between CTGF and the occurrence of new cardiovascular events and mortality was assessed with Cox proportional hazard analysis. Adjustments were made for potential confounding factors. Plasma CTGF was positively related to total cholesterol (β 0.040;95%CI 0.013-0.067) and LDL cholesterol (β 0.031;95%CI 0.000-0.062) and inversely to glomerular filtration rate (β -0.004;95%CI -0.005 to -0.002). CTGF was significantly lower in patients with cerebrovascular disease. During a median follow-up of 6.5 years (IQR 5.3-7.4) 131 subjects died, 92 experienced an ischemic cardiac complication and 45 an ischemic stroke. CTGF was associated with an increased risk of new vascular events (HR 1.21;95%CI 1.04-1.42), ischemic cardiac events (HR 1.41;95%CI 1.18-1.67) and all-cause mortality (HR 1.18;95%CI 1.00-1.38) for every 1 nmol/L increase in CTGF. No relation was observed between CTGF and the occurrence of ischemic stroke. CONCLUSIONS In patients with manifest vascular disease, elevated plasma CTGF confers an increased risk of new cardiovascular events and all-cause mortality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karin G Gerritsen
- a Department of Pathology
- b Department of Nephrology and Hypertension
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Hendrik M Nathoe
- d Department of Cardiology , University Medical Center Utrecht , Utrecht , The Netherlands
| | | | - Robbert J Kok
- e Department of Pharmaceutics , Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University , Utrecht , The Netherlands , and
| | | | - Frank L Visseren
- f Department of Vascular Medicine , University Medical Center Utrecht , Utrecht , The Netherlands
| | | |
Collapse
|
36
|
Feng X, Liu P, Zhou X, Li MT, Li FL, Wang Z, Meng Z, Sun YP, Yu Y, Xiong Y, Yuan HX, Guan KL. Thromboxane A2 Activates YAP/TAZ Protein to Induce Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell Proliferation and Migration. J Biol Chem 2016; 291:18947-58. [PMID: 27382053 PMCID: PMC5009267 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m116.739722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2016] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The thromboxane A2 receptor (TP) has been implicated in restenosis after vascular injury, which induces vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) migration and proliferation. However, the mechanism for this process is largely unknown. In this study, we report that TP signaling induces VSMC migration and proliferation through activating YAP/TAZ, two major downstream effectors of the Hippo signaling pathway. The TP-specific agonists [1S-[1α,2α(Z),3β(1E,3S*),4 α]]-7-[3-[3-hydroxy-4-(4-iodophenoxy)-1-butenyl]-7-oxabicyclo[2.2.1]hept-2-yl]-5-heptenoic acid (I-BOP) and 9,11-dideoxy-9α,11α-methanoepoxy-prosta-5Z,13E-dien-1-oic acid (U-46619) induce YAP/TAZ activation in multiple cell lines, including VSMCs. YAP/TAZ activation induced by I-BOP is blocked by knockout of the receptor TP or knockdown of the downstream G proteins Gα12/13 Moreover, Rho inhibition or actin cytoskeleton disruption prevents I-BOP-induced YAP/TAZ activation. Importantly, TP activation promotes DNA synthesis and cell migration in VSMCs in a manner dependent on YAP/TAZ. Taken together, thromboxane A2 signaling activates YAP/TAZ to promote VSMC migration and proliferation, indicating YAP/TAZ as potential therapeutic targets for cardiovascular diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xu Feng
- From the Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine of the Ministry of Education and Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Peng Liu
- From the Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine of the Ministry of Education and Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Xin Zhou
- From the Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine of the Ministry of Education and Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Meng-Tian Li
- From the Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine of the Ministry of Education and Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Fu-Long Li
- From the Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine of the Ministry of Education and Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Zhen Wang
- From the Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine of the Ministry of Education and Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Zhipeng Meng
- the Department of Pharmacology and Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California 92130
| | - Yi-Ping Sun
- From the Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine of the Ministry of Education and Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Ying Yu
- the Key Laboratory of Food Safety Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Institute for Nutritional Sciences, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China, and
| | - Yue Xiong
- From the Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine of the Ministry of Education and Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China, the Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599
| | - Hai-Xin Yuan
- From the Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine of the Ministry of Education and Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China,
| | - Kun-Liang Guan
- From the Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine of the Ministry of Education and Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China, the Department of Pharmacology and Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California 92130,
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Wen C, Xie G, Zeng P, Huang LF, Chen CY. [Tranilast inhibits myocardial fibrosis in mice with viral myocarditis]. ZHONGGUO DANG DAI ER KE ZA ZHI = CHINESE JOURNAL OF CONTEMPORARY PEDIATRICS 2016; 18:446-454. [PMID: 27165596 PMCID: PMC7390369 DOI: 10.7499/j.issn.1008-8830.2016.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2016] [Accepted: 03/24/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the effect of tranilast on myocardial fibrosis in mice with viral myocarditis (VMC). METHODS Male balb/c mice (n=72) were randomly divided into control, VMC and tranilast groups (n=24 each). In the VMC and tranilast groups, the mice were infected with Coxsackie virus B3 (CVB3) to prepare VMC model, while the control group was treated with Eagle's medium. After modeling, the tranilast group was administrated with tranilast [200 mg/(kg.d)] until the day before sampling. On days 7, 14 and 28 after CVB3 or Eagle's medium infection, heart specimens (n=8) were taken and examined after Toluidine blue staining and Nissl staining for counts of mast cells (MC), hematoxylin-eosin staining for myocardial pathological changes, and Masson staining for myocardial fibrosis. The expression of CTGF and type I collagen (Col I) in the myocardial tissue was measured by RT-PCR and Western blot. The correlations of CTGF mRNA expression with MC counts and Col I expression were analyzed. RESULTS The myocardial pathological changes and collagen volume fraction in the VMC group were significantly higher than in the control group at all three time points (P<0.05). Tranilast treatment significantly decreased the myocardial pathological changes and collagen volume fraction compared with the VMC group (P<0.05). The mRNA and protein expression of CTGF and Col I increased in the VMC group compared with the control group, and the increases were reduced with tranilast treatment (P<0.05). The number of MC was positively correlated to CTGF mRNA expression on the 7th day and 14th day (r=0.439, P=0.049) in the VMC group. There were positive correlations between the mRNA expression of Col I and CTGF on the 7th day and 14th day (r=0.646, P=0.007) and the 28th day (r=0.326, P=0.031). CONCLUSIONS Tranilast may inhibit the aggregation of MC and down-regulate the expression of CTGF, relieving myocardial fibrosis of mice with VMC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chun Wen
- Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410013, China.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
38
|
Zhang F, Ren Y, Liu P, Ren Y, Wang D. Expression of TGF-β1 and miRNA-145 in patients with diabetic foot ulcers. Exp Ther Med 2016; 11:2011-2014. [PMID: 27168843 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2016.3123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2014] [Accepted: 02/11/2016] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to investigate the expression levels of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 and microRNA (miRNA)-145 in patients with diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs). A total of 26 patients with DFUs requiring amputation were enrolled in the study between January 2013 and August 2014. In addition, 15 trauma patients undergoing amputation over the same time period were included as a control group. Samples were collected from the blood, the dorsalis pedis arteries and muscles of the amputated limbs. The expression levels of TGF-β1 mRNA and miRNA-145 in these samples was detected using reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction. The expression levels of TGF-β1 protein were evaluated using western blot analysis. In comparison with the control, the protein and mRNA expression levels of TGF-β1 in the DFU patients was significantly higher in the serum and the dorsalis pedis arteries, and significantly lower in the muscles with ulcers. In contrast, the expression levels of miRNA-145 was significantly lower in the blood and the dorsalis pedis arteries, and significantly higher in the muscles with ulcers in DFU patients compared with the control. The results of the present study suggested that there exists an inverse correlation between the expression levels of miRNA-145 and TGF-β1 in patients with DFU; thus suggesting that miRNA-145 may regulate the expression of TGF-β1 in patients with DFUs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fengmei Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology, Laiwu City People's Hospital, Laiwu, Shandong 271199, P.R. China
| | - Yuguo Ren
- Department of Laboratory, Laiwu City People's Hospital, Laiwu, Shandong 271199, P.R. China
| | - Peng Liu
- Department of Endocrinology, Laiwu City People's Hospital, Laiwu, Shandong 271199, P.R. China
| | - Yufeng Ren
- Department of Medicine, Laicheng District Fangxia Hospital, Laiwu, Shandong 271199, P.R. China
| | - Debao Wang
- Department of Endocrinology, Laiwu City People's Hospital, Laiwu, Shandong 271199, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Balanced regulation of the CCN family of matricellular proteins: a novel approach to the prevention and treatment of fibrosis and cancer. J Cell Commun Signal 2015; 9:327-39. [PMID: 26698861 DOI: 10.1007/s12079-015-0309-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2015] [Accepted: 11/03/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The CCN family of matricellular signaling proteins is emerging as a unique common link across multiple diseases and organs related to injury and repair. They are now being shown to play a central role in regulating the pathways to the initiation and resolution of normal wound healing and fibrosis in response to multiple forms of injury. Similarly, it is also emerging that they play a key role in regulating the establishment, growth, metastases and tissue regeneration in many forms of cancer via the interaction of cancer cells with the tumor stroma. Evidence has been recently provided that these proteins do not act independently but are co-regulated working in a yin/yang manner to alter the outcome of both normal physiological processes as well as pathology. The purpose of this review is to twofold. First, it will summarize work to date supporting CCN2 as a therapeutic target in the formation and progression of renal, skin, and other organ fibrosis, as well as cancer stroma formation. Second, it will highlight recent evidence for CCN3 as a counter-regulator and a potential therapeutic agent in these diseases with an exciting, novel potential to both treat and then restore tissue homeostasis in those afflicted by these devastating disorders.
Collapse
|
40
|
Zhang P, Cui W, Hankey KG, Gibbs AM, Smith CP, Taylor-Howell C, Kearney SR, MacVittie TJ. Increased Expression of Connective Tissue Growth Factor (CTGF) in Multiple Organs After Exposure of Non-Human Primates (NHP) to Lethal Doses of Radiation. HEALTH PHYSICS 2015; 109:374-90. [PMID: 26425899 PMCID: PMC4593333 DOI: 10.1097/hp.0000000000000343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Exposure to sufficiently high doses of ionizing radiation is known to cause fibrosis in many different organs and tissues. Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF/CCN2), a member of the CCN family of matricellular proteins, plays an important role in the development of fibrosis in multiple organs. The aim of the present study was to quantify the gene and protein expression of CTGF in a variety of organs from non-human primates (NHP) that were previously exposed to potentially lethal doses of radiation. Tissues from non-irradiated NHP and NHP exposed to whole thoracic lung irradiation (WTLI) or partial-body irradiation with 5% bone marrow sparing (PBI/BM5) were examined by real-time quantitative reverse transcription PCR, western blot, and immunohistochemistry. Expression of CTGF was elevated in the lung tissues of NHP exposed to WTLI relative to the lung tissues of the non-irradiated NHP. Increased expression of CTGF was also observed in multiple organs from NHP exposed to PBI/BM5 compared to non-irradiated NHP; these included the lung, kidney, spleen, thymus, and liver. These irradiated organs also exhibited histological evidence of increased collagen deposition compared to the control tissues. There was significant correlation of CTGF expression with collagen deposition in the lung and spleen of NHP exposed to PBI/BM5. Significant correlations were observed between spleen and multiple organs on CTGF expression and collagen deposition, respectively, suggesting possible crosstalk between spleen and other organs. These data suggest that CTGF levels are increased in multiple organs after radiation exposure and that inflammatory cell infiltration may contribute to the elevated levels of CTGF in multiple organs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pei Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA 21201 10 South Pine Street, MSTF Room 604, Baltimore, MD 21201
| | - Wanchang Cui
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA 21201 10 South Pine Street, MSTF Room 604, Baltimore, MD 21201
- Corresponding authors: Wanchang Cui, ; Phone: 410-706-5282; Fax: 410-706-5270. Thomas J. MacVittie, ; Phone: 410-706-5274; Fax: 410-706-5270
| | - Kim G. Hankey
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA 21201 10 South Pine Street, MSTF Room 604, Baltimore, MD 21201
| | - Allison M. Gibbs
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA 21201 10 South Pine Street, MSTF Room 604, Baltimore, MD 21201
| | - Cassandra P. Smith
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA 21201 10 South Pine Street, MSTF Room 604, Baltimore, MD 21201
| | - Cheryl Taylor-Howell
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA 21201 10 South Pine Street, MSTF Room 604, Baltimore, MD 21201
| | - Sean R. Kearney
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA 21201 10 South Pine Street, MSTF Room 604, Baltimore, MD 21201
| | - Thomas J. MacVittie
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA 21201 10 South Pine Street, MSTF Room 604, Baltimore, MD 21201
- Corresponding authors: Wanchang Cui, ; Phone: 410-706-5282; Fax: 410-706-5270. Thomas J. MacVittie, ; Phone: 410-706-5274; Fax: 410-706-5270
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Abstract
Formation of foam cell macrophages, which sequester extracellular modified lipids, is a key event in atherosclerosis. How lipid loading affects macrophage phenotype is controversial, with evidence suggesting either pro- or anti-inflammatory consequences. To investigate this further, we compared the transcriptomes of foamy and non-foamy macrophages that accumulate in the subcutaneous granulomas of fed-fat ApoE null mice and normal chow fed wild-type mice in vivo. Consistent with previous studies, LXR/RXR pathway genes were significantly over-represented among the genes up-regulated in foam cell macrophages. Unexpectedly, the hepatic fibrosis pathway, associated with platelet derived growth factor and transforming growth factor-β action, was also over-represented. Several collagen polypeptides and proteoglycan core proteins as well as connective tissue growth factor and fibrosis-related FOS and JUN transcription factors were up-regulated in foam cell macrophages. Increased expression of several of these genes was confirmed at the protein level in foam cell macrophages from subcutaneous granulomas and in atherosclerotic plaques. Moreover, phosphorylation and nuclear translocation of SMAD2, which is downstream of several transforming growth factor-β family members, was also detected in foam cell macrophages. We conclude that foam cell formation in vivo leads to a pro-fibrotic macrophage phenotype, which could contribute to plaque stability, especially in early lesions that have few vascular smooth muscle cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anita C. Thomas
- Bristol Heart Institute, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | - Wouter J. Eijgelaar
- Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Mat J. A. P. Daemen
- Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Academisch Medisch Centrum (AMC), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Andrew C. Newby
- Bristol Heart Institute, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
TGF-Beta Blockade Increases Renal Inflammation Caused by the C-Terminal Module of the CCN2. Mediators Inflamm 2015; 2015:506041. [PMID: 26074680 PMCID: PMC4436472 DOI: 10.1155/2015/506041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2015] [Revised: 04/10/2015] [Accepted: 04/11/2015] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The CCN family member 2 (CCN2, also known as
connective tissue growth factor) may behave as a risk
biomarker and a potential therapeutic target for renal
disease. CCN2 participates in the regulation of
inflammation and fibrosis. TGF-β is considered
the main fibrogenic cytokine; however, in some
pathological settings TGF-β also has
anti-inflammatory properties. CCN2 has been proposed
as a downstream profibrotic mediator of TGF-β,
but data on TGF-β role in CCN2 actions are
scarce. Our aim was to evaluate the effect of
TGF-β blockade in CCN2-mediated experimental
renal damage. Systemic administration of the
C-terminal module of CCN2 to mice caused sustained
renal inflammation. In these mice, TGF-β
blockade, using an anti-TGF-β neutralizing
antibody, significantly increased renal expression of
the NGAL (a kidney injury biomarker), kidney
infiltration by monocytes/macrophages, and
upregulation of MCP-1 expression. The
anti-inflammatory effect of TGF-β seems to be
mediated by a dysregulation of the systemic Treg
immune response, shown by decreased levels of
circulating CD4+/Foxp3+Treg
cells. Our experimental data support the idea that
TGF-β exerts anti-inflammatory actions in the
kidney and suggest that it is not an optimal
therapeutic target.
Collapse
|
43
|
Integrin mediated adhesion of osteoblasts to connective tissue growth factor (CTGF/CCN2) induces cytoskeleton reorganization and cell differentiation. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0115325. [PMID: 25714841 PMCID: PMC4340870 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0115325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2014] [Accepted: 11/22/2014] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Pre-osteoblast adhesion and interaction with extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins through integrin receptors result in activation of signaling pathways regulating osteoblast differentiation. Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF/CCN2) is a matricellular protein secreted into the ECM. Prior studies in various cell types have shown that cell adhesion to CTGF via integrin receptors results in activation of specific signaling pathways that regulate cell functions, such as differentiation and cytoskeletal reorganization. To date, there are no studies that have examined whether CTGF can serve as an adhesive substrate for osteoblasts. In this study, we used the MC3T3-E1 cell line to demonstrate that CTGF serves as an adhesive matrix for osteoblasts. Anti-integrin blocking experiments and co-immunoprecipitation assays demonstrated that the integrin αvβ1 plays a key role in osteoblast adhesion to a CTGF matrix. Immunofluorescence staining of osteoblasts cultured on a CTGF matrix confirmed actin cytoskeletal reorganization, enhanced spreading, formation of focal adhesions, and activation of Rac1. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) staining and activity assays, as well as Alizarin red staining demonstrated that osteoblast attachment to CTGF matrix enhanced maturation, bone nodule formation and matrix mineralization. To investigate whether the effect of CTGF on osteoblast differentiation involves integrin-mediated activation of specific signaling pathways, we performed Western blot, chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) and qPCR assays. Osteoblasts cultured on a CTGF matrix showed increased total and phosphorylated (activated) forms of focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK). Inhibition of ERK blocked osteogenic differentiation in cells cultured on a CTGF matrix. There was an increase in runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2) binding to the osteocalcin gene promoter, and in the expression of osteogenic markers regulated by Runx2. Collectively, the results of this study are the first to demonstrate CTGF serves as a suitable matrix protein, enhancing osteoblast adhesion (via αvβ1 integrin) and promoting cell spreading via cytoskeletal reorganization and Rac1 activation. Furthermore, integrin-mediated activation of ERK signaling resulted in increased osteoblast differentiation accompanied by an increase in Runx2 binding to the osteocalcin promoter and in the expression of osteogenic markers.
Collapse
|
44
|
Kuespert S, Junglas B, Braunger BM, Tamm ER, Fuchshofer R. The regulation of connective tissue growth factor expression influences the viability of human trabecular meshwork cells. J Cell Mol Med 2015; 19:1010-20. [PMID: 25704370 PMCID: PMC4420603 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.12492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2014] [Accepted: 10/13/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) induces extracellular matrix (ECM) synthesis and contractility in human trabecular meshwork (HTM) cells. Both processes are involved in the pathogenesis of primary open-angle glaucoma. To date, little is known about regulation and function of CTGF expression in the trabecular meshwork (TM). Therefore, we analysed the effects of different aqueous humour proteins and stressors on CTGF expression in HTM cells. HTM cells from three different donors were treated with endothelin-1, insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-1, angiotensin-II, H2O2 and heat shock and were analysed by immunohistochemistry, real-time RT-PCR and Western blotting. Viability after H2O2 treatment was measured in CTGF silenced HTM-N cells and their controls. Latrunculin A reduced expression of CTGF by about 50% compared to untreated HTM cells, whereas endothelin-1, IGF-1, angiotensin-II, heat shock and oxidative stress led to a significant increase. Silencing of CTGF resulted in a delayed expression of αB-crystallin and in reduced cell viability in comparison to the controls after oxidative stress. Conversely, CTGF treatment led to a higher cell viability rate after H2O2 treatment. CTGF expression is induced by factors that have been linked to glaucoma. An increased level of CTGF appears to protect TM cells against damage induced by stress. The beneficial effect of CTGF for viability of TM cells is likely associated with the effects on increased ECM synthesis and higher contractility of the TM, thereby contributing to reduced aqueous humour outflow facility causing increased intraocular pressure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina Kuespert
- Institute of Human Anatomy and Embryology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
45
|
Rodrigues-Diez RR, Garcia-Redondo AB, Orejudo M, Rodrigues-Diez R, Briones AM, Bosch-Panadero E, Kery G, Pato J, Ortiz A, Salaices M, Egido J, Ruiz-Ortega M. The C-terminal module IV of connective tissue growth factor, through EGFR/Nox1 signaling, activates the NF-κB pathway and proinflammatory factors in vascular smooth muscle cells. Antioxid Redox Signal 2015; 22:29-47. [PMID: 25065408 PMCID: PMC4270131 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2013.5500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF/CCN2) is a developmental gene upregulated in pathological conditions, including cardiovascular diseases, whose product is a matricellular protein that can be degraded to biologically active fragments. Among them, the C-terminal module IV [CCN2(IV)] regulates many cellular functions, but there are no data about redox process. Therefore, we investigated whether CCN2(IV) through redox signaling regulates vascular responses. RESULTS CCN2(IV) increased superoxide anion (O2(•-)) production in murine aorta (ex vivo and in vivo) and in cultured vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). In isolated murine aorta, CCN2(IV), via O2(•-), increased phenylephrine-induced vascular contraction. CCN2(IV) in vivo regulated several redox-related processes in mice aorta, including increased nonphagocytic NAD(P)H oxidases (Nox)1 activity, protein nitrosylation, endothelial dysfunction, and activation of the nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) pathway and its related proinflammatory factors. The role of Nox1 in CCN2(IV)-mediated vascular responses in vivo was investigated by gene silencing. The administration of a Nox1 morpholino diminished aortic O2(•-) production, endothelial dysfunction, NF-κB activation, and overexpression of proinflammatory genes in CCN2(IV)-injected mice. The link CCN2(IV)/Nox1/NF-κB/inflammation was confirmed in cultured VSMCs. Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is a known CCN2 receptor. In VSMCs, CCN2(IV) activates EGFR signaling. Moreover, EGFR kinase inhibition blocked vascular responses in CCN2(IV)-injected mice. INNOVATION AND CONCLUSION CCN2(IV) is a novel prooxidant factor that in VSMCs induces O2(•-) production via EGFR/Nox1 activation. Our in vivo data demonstrate that CCN2(IV) through EGFR/Nox1 signaling pathway induces endothelial dysfunction and activation of the NF-κB inflammatory pathway. Therefore, CCN2(IV) could be considered a potential therapeutic target for redox-related cardiovascular diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raúl R Rodrigues-Diez
- 1 Cellular Biology in Renal Diseases Laboratory, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma Madrid , Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
46
|
Henshaw FR, Boughton P, Lo L, McLennan SV, Twigg SM. Topically applied connective tissue growth factor/CCN2 improves diabetic preclinical cutaneous wound healing: potential role for CTGF in human diabetic foot ulcer healing. J Diabetes Res 2015; 2015:236238. [PMID: 25789327 PMCID: PMC4348590 DOI: 10.1155/2015/236238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2014] [Revised: 01/23/2015] [Accepted: 02/02/2015] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS/HYPOTHESIS Topical application of CTGF/CCN2 to rodent diabetic and control wounds was examined. In parallel research, correlation of CTGF wound fluid levels with healing rate in human diabetic foot ulcers was undertaken. METHODS Full thickness cutaneous wounds in diabetic and nondiabetic control rats were treated topically with 1 μg rhCTGF or vehicle alone, on 2 consecutive days. Wound healing rate was observed on day 14 and wound sites were examined for breaking strength and granulation tissue. In the human study across 32 subjects, serial CTGF regulation was analyzed longitudinally in postdebridement diabetic wound fluid. RESULTS CTGF treated diabetic wounds had an accelerated closure rate compared with vehicle treated diabetic wounds. Healed skin withstood more strain before breaking in CTGF treated rat wounds. Granulation tissue from CTGF treatment in diabetic wounds showed collagen IV accumulation compared with nondiabetic animals. Wound α-smooth muscle actin was increased in CTGF treated diabetic wounds compared with untreated diabetic wounds, as was macrophage infiltration. Endogenous wound fluid CTGF protein rate of increase in human diabetic foot ulcers correlated positively with foot ulcer healing rate (r = 0.406; P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION These data collectively increasingly substantiate a functional role for CTGF in human diabetic foot ulcers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- F. R. Henshaw
- Sydney Medical School and Charles Perkins Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - P. Boughton
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Aerospace, Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - L. Lo
- Sydney Medical School and Charles Perkins Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - S. V. McLennan
- Sydney Medical School and Charles Perkins Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
- Department of Endocrinology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, NSW 2050, Australia
| | - S. M. Twigg
- Sydney Medical School and Charles Perkins Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
- Department of Endocrinology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, NSW 2050, Australia
- *S. M. Twigg:
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Kim MS, Park SH, Han SY, Kim YH, Lee EJ, Yoon Park JH, Kang YH. Phloretin suppresses thrombin-mediated leukocyte-platelet-endothelial interactions. Mol Nutr Food Res 2013; 58:698-708. [DOI: 10.1002/mnfr.201300267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2013] [Revised: 09/19/2013] [Accepted: 09/25/2013] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Min Soo Kim
- Department of Food and Nutrition; Hallym University; Chuncheon Republic of Korea
| | - Sin-Hye Park
- Department of Food and Nutrition; Hallym University; Chuncheon Republic of Korea
| | - Seon-Young Han
- Department of Food and Nutrition; Hallym University; Chuncheon Republic of Korea
| | - Yun-Ho Kim
- Department of Food and Nutrition; Hallym University; Chuncheon Republic of Korea
| | - Eun-Jung Lee
- Department of Food and Nutrition; Hallym University; Chuncheon Republic of Korea
| | - Jung Han Yoon Park
- Department of Food and Nutrition; Hallym University; Chuncheon Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Hee Kang
- Department of Food and Nutrition; Hallym University; Chuncheon Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Ha YM, Lee DH, Kim M, Kang YJ. High glucose induces connective tissue growth factor expression and extracellular matrix accumulation in rat aorta vascular smooth muscle cells via extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2. THE KOREAN JOURNAL OF PHYSIOLOGY & PHARMACOLOGY : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE KOREAN PHYSIOLOGICAL SOCIETY AND THE KOREAN SOCIETY OF PHARMACOLOGY 2013; 17:307-14. [PMID: 23946690 PMCID: PMC3741487 DOI: 10.4196/kjpp.2013.17.4.307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2013] [Revised: 06/10/2013] [Accepted: 06/22/2013] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) is a potent pro-fibrotic factor, which is implicated in fibrosis through extracellular matrix (ECM) induction in diabetic cardiovascular complications. It is an important downstream mediator in the fibrotic action of transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) and is potentially induced by hyperglycemia in human vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). Therefore, the goal of this study is to identify the signaling pathways of CTGF effects on ECM accumulation and cell proliferation in VSMCs under hyperglycemia. We found that high glucose stimulated the levels of CTGF mRNA and protein and followed by VSMC proliferation and ECM components accumulation such as collagen type 1, collagen type 3 and fibronectin. By depleting endogenous CTGF we showed that CTGF is indispensable for the cell proliferation and ECM components accumulation in high glucose-stimulated VSMCs. In addition, pretreatment with the MEK1/2 specific inhibitors, PD98059 or U0126 potently inhibited the CTGF production and ECM components accumulation in high glucose-stimulated VSMCs. Furthermore, knockdown with ERK1/2 MAPK siRNA resulted in significantly down regulated of CTGF production, ECM components accumulation and cell proliferation in high glucose-stimulated VSMCs. Finally, ERK1/2 signaling regulated Egr-1 protein expression and treatment with recombinant CTGF reversed the Egr-1 expression in high glucose-induced VSMCs. It is conceivable that ERK1/2 MAPK signaling pathway plays an important role in regulating CTGF expression and suggests that blockade of CTGF through ERK1/2 MAPK signaling may be beneficial for therapeutic target of diabetic cardiovascular complication such as atherosclerosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu Mi Ha
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Yeungnam University, Daegu 705-717, Korea. ; Department of Aging-Associated Vascular Disease Research Center, College of Medicine, Yeungnam University, Daegu 705-717, Korea
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
49
|
The C-terminal module IV of connective tissue growth factor is a novel immune modulator of the Th17 response. J Transl Med 2013; 93:812-24. [PMID: 23648563 DOI: 10.1038/labinvest.2013.67] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF/CCN2) is a matricellular protein susceptible to proteolytic degradation. CCN2 levels have been suggested as a potential risk biomarker in several chronic diseases. In body fluids, CCN2 full-length and its degradation fragments can be found; however, their in vivo effects are far from being elucidated. CCN2 was described as a profibrotic mediator, but this concept is changing to a proinflammatory cytokine. In vitro, CCN2 full-length and its C-terminal module IV (CCN2(IV)) exert proinflammatory properties. Emerging evidence suggest that Th17 cells, and its effector cytokine IL-17A, participate in chronic inflammatory diseases. Our aim was to explore whether CCN2(IV) could regulate the Th17 response. In vitro, stimulation of human naive CD4+ T lymphocytes with CCN2(IV) resulted in differentiation to Th17 phenotype. The in vivo effects of CCN2(IV) were studied in C57BL/6 mice. Intraperitoneal administration of recombinant CCN2(IV) did not change serum IL-17A levels, but caused an activation of the Th17 response in the kidney, characterized by interstitial infiltration of Th17 (IL17A+/CD4+) cells and upregulation of proinflammatory mediators. In CCN2(IV)-injected mice, elevated renal levels of Th17-related factors (IL-17A, IL-6, STAT3 and RORγt) were found, whereas Th1/Th2 cytokines or Treg-related factors (TGF-β and Foxp-3) were not modified. Treatment with an anti-IL-17A neutralizing antibody diminished CCN2(IV)-induced renal inflammation. Our findings unveil that the C-terminal module of CCN2 induces the Th17 differentiation of human Th17 cells and causes a renal Th17 inflammatory response. Furthermore, these data bear out that IL-17A targeting is a promising tool for chronic inflammatory diseases, including renal pathologies.
Collapse
|
50
|
Nozawa K, Fujishiro M, Kawasaki M, Yamaguchi A, Ikeda K, Morimoto S, Iwabuchi K, Yanagida M, Ichinose S, Morioka M, Ogawa H, Takamori K, Takasaki Y, Sekigawa I. Inhibition of Connective Tissue Growth Factor Ameliorates Disease in a Murine Model of Rheumatoid Arthritis. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 65:1477-86. [DOI: 10.1002/art.37902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2012] [Accepted: 02/07/2013] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kazuhisa Nozawa
- Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan, and Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine; Chiba; Japan
| | - Maki Fujishiro
- Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine; Chiba; Japan
| | - Mikiko Kawasaki
- Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine; Chiba; Japan
| | - Ayako Yamaguchi
- Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan, and Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine; Chiba; Japan
| | - Keigo Ikeda
- Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine and Juntendo University Urayasu Hospital; Chiba; Japan
| | - Shinji Morimoto
- Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine and Juntendo University Urayasu Hospital; Chiba; Japan
| | - Kazuhisa Iwabuchi
- Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan, and Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine; Chiba; Japan
| | | | - Shouzo Ichinose
- Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine; Chiba; Japan
| | | | - Hideoki Ogawa
- Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine; Chiba; Japan
| | - Kenji Takamori
- Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine; Chiba; Japan
| | | | - Iwao Sekigawa
- Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine and Juntendo University Urayasu Hospital; Chiba; Japan
| |
Collapse
|