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Cosetta R, Michela C, Anna V, Mattia D, Elisabetta G, Stefania M. Alternative method to visualize receptor dynamics in cell membranes. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0304172. [PMID: 38861534 PMCID: PMC11166301 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0304172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
There is a close relation between membrane receptor dynamics and their behavior. Several microscopy techniques have been developed to study protein dynamics in live cells such as the Fluorescence Recovery After Photobleaching (FRAP) or the Single Particle Tracking (SPT). These methodologies require expensive instruments, are time consuming, allow the analysis of small portion of the cell or an extremely small number of receptors at a time. Here we propose a time-saving approach that allows to visualize the entire receptor pool and its localization in time. This protocol requires an epifluorescence microscope equipped for structured illuminated sectioning and for live cell imaging. It can be applied to characterize membrane receptor and multi protein complex and their response to activators or inhibitors. Image acquisition and analysis can be performed in two days, while cells and substratum preparation require a few minutes a day for three days.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ravelli Cosetta
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
- The Mechanobiology Research Center, UNIBS, Brescia, Italy
| | - Corsini Michela
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
- The Mechanobiology Research Center, UNIBS, Brescia, Italy
| | - Ventura Anna
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Domenichini Mattia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Grillo Elisabetta
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
- The Mechanobiology Research Center, UNIBS, Brescia, Italy
| | - Mitola Stefania
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
- The Mechanobiology Research Center, UNIBS, Brescia, Italy
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2
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Deng J, Martin S, Searl T, Ohlander S, Harrington DA, McVary KT, Podlasek CA. SHH regulates penile morphology and smooth muscle through a mechanism involving BMP4 and GREM1. J Sex Med 2024; 21:379-390. [PMID: 38451321 PMCID: PMC11063416 DOI: 10.1093/jsxmed/qdae016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 12/30/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The cavernous nerve (CN) is frequently damaged in prostatectomy and diabetic patients with erectile dysfunction (ED), initiating changes in penile morphology including an acute and intense phase of apoptosis in penile smooth muscle and increased collagen, which alter penile architecture and make corpora cavernosa smooth muscle less able to relax in response to neurotransmitters, resulting in ED. AIM Sonic hedgehog (SHH) is a critical regulator of penile smooth muscle, and SHH treatment suppresses penile remodeling after CN injury through an unknown mechanism; we examine if part of the mechanism of how SHH preserves smooth muscle after CN injury involves bone morphogenetic protein 4 (BMP4) and gremlin1 (GREM1). METHODS Primary cultures of smooth muscle cells were established from prostatectomy, diabetic, hypertension and Peyronie's (control) (N = 18) patients. Cultures were characterized by ACTA2, CD31, P4HB, and nNOS immunohistochemical analysis. Patient smooth muscle cell growth was quantified in response to BMP4 and GREM1 treatment. Adult Sprague Dawley rats underwent 1 of 3 surgeries: (1) uninjured or CN-injured rats were treated with BMP4, GREM1, or mouse serum albumin (control) proteins via Affi-Gel beads (N = 16) or peptide amphiphile (PA) (N = 26) for 3 and 14 days, and trichrome stain was performed; (2) rats underwent sham (N = 3), CN injury (N = 9), or CN injury and SHH PA treatment for 1, 2, and 4 days (N = 9). OUTCOMES Western analysis for BMP4 and GREM1 was performed; (3) rats were treated with 5E1 SHH inhibitor (N = 6) or IgG (control; N = 6) for 2 and 4 days, and BMP4 and GREM1 localization was examined. Statistics were performed by analysis of variance with Scheffé's post hoc test. RESULTS BMP4 increased patient smooth muscle cell growth, and GREM1 decreased growth. In rats, BMP4 treatment via Affi-Gel beads and PA increased smooth muscle at 3 and 14 days of treatment. GREM1 treatment caused increased collagen and smooth muscle at 3 days, which switched to primarily collagen at 14 days. CN injury increased BMP4 and GREM1, while SHH PA altered Western band size, suggesting alternative cleavage and range of BMP4 and GREM1 signaling. SHH inhibition in rats increased BMP4 and GREM1 in fibroblasts. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS Understanding how SHH PA preserves and regenerates penile morphology after CN injury will aid development of ED therapies. STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS SHH treatment alters BMP4 and GREM1 localization and range of signaling, which can affect penile morphology. CONCLUSION Part of the mechanism of how SHH regulates corpora cavernosa smooth muscle involves BMP4 and GREM1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiangping Deng
- Department of Urology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
| | - Sarah Martin
- Department of Urology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
| | - Timothy Searl
- Department of Urology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
| | - Samuel Ohlander
- Department of Urology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
| | - Daniel A Harrington
- Department of Diagnostic and Biomedical Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, 77054, United States
| | - Kevin T McVary
- Department of Urology, Loyola University Stritch School of Medicine, Maywood, IL 60153, United States
| | - Carol A Podlasek
- Department of Urology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
- Department of Physiology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
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3
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Gao Z, Houthuijzen JM, Ten Dijke P, Brazil DP. GREM1 signaling in cancer: tumor promotor and suppressor? J Cell Commun Signal 2023:10.1007/s12079-023-00777-4. [PMID: 37615860 DOI: 10.1007/s12079-023-00777-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
GREMLIN1 (GREM1) is member of a family of structurally and functionally related secreted cysteine knot proteins, which act to sequester and inhibit the action of multifunctional bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs). GREM1 binds directly to BMP dimers, thereby preventing BMP-mediated activation of BMP type I and type II receptors. Multiple reports identify the overexpression of GREM1 as a contributing factor in a broad range of cancers. Additionally, the GREM1 gene is amplified in a rare autosomal dominant inherited form of colorectal cancer. The inhibitory effects of GREM1 on BMP signaling have been linked to these tumor-promoting effects, including facilitating cancer cell stemness and the activation of cancer-associated fibroblasts. Moreover, GREM1 has been described to bind and signal to vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR) and stimulate angiogenesis, as well as epidermal and fibroblast growth factor receptor (EGFR and FGFR) to elicit tumor-promoting effects in breast and prostate cancer, respectively. In contrast, a 2022 report revealed that GREM1 can promote an epithelial state in pancreatic cancers, thereby inhibiting pancreatic tumor growth and metastasis. In this commentary, we will review these disparate findings and attempt to provide clarity around the role of GREM1 signaling in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhichun Gao
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Northern Ireland, BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Julia M Houthuijzen
- Oncode Institute, Division of Molecular Pathology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, Amsterdam, 1066 CX, The Netherlands
| | - Peter Ten Dijke
- Oncode Institute, Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Derek P Brazil
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Northern Ireland, BT9 7BL, UK.
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4
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Vliora M, Ravelli C, Grillo E, Corsini M, Flouris AD, Mitola S. The impact of adipokines on vascular networks in adipose tissue. Cytokine Growth Factor Rev 2023; 69:61-72. [PMID: 35953434 DOI: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2022.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Adipose tissue (AT) is a highly active and plastic endocrine organ. It secretes numerous soluble molecules known as adipokines, which act locally to AT control the remodel and homeostasis or exert pleiotropic functions in different peripheral organs. Aberrant production or loss of certain adipokines contributes to AT dysfunction associated with metabolic disorders, including obesity. The AT plasticity is strictly related to tissue vascularization. Angiogenesis supports the AT expansion, while regression of blood vessels is associated with AT hypoxia, which in turn mediates tissue inflammation, fibrosis and metabolic dysfunction. Several adipokines can regulate endothelial cell functions and are endowed with either pro- or anti-angiogenic properties. Here we address the role of adipokines in the regulation of angiogenesis. A better understanding of the link between adipokines and angiogenesis will open the way for novel therapeutic approaches to treat obesity and metabolic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Vliora
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Exercise Science, University of Thessaly, Trikala, Greece; Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Via Branze 39, Brescia, Italy
| | - Cosetta Ravelli
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Via Branze 39, Brescia, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Grillo
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Via Branze 39, Brescia, Italy
| | - Michela Corsini
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Via Branze 39, Brescia, Italy
| | - Andreas D Flouris
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Exercise Science, University of Thessaly, Trikala, Greece
| | - Stefania Mitola
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Via Branze 39, Brescia, Italy.
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5
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Grillo E, Ravelli C, Colleluori G, D'Agostino F, Domenichini M, Giordano A, Mitola S. Role of gremlin-1 in the pathophysiology of the adipose tissues. Cytokine Growth Factor Rev 2023; 69:51-60. [PMID: 36155165 DOI: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2022.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Gremlin-1 is a secreted bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) antagonist playing a pivotal role in the regulation of tissue formation and embryonic development. Since its first identification in 1997, gremlin-1 has been shown to be a multifunctional factor involved in wound healing, inflammation, cancer and tissue fibrosis. Among others, the activity of gremlin-1 is mediated by its interaction with BMPs or with membrane receptors such as the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2) or heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs). Growing evidence has highlighted a central role of gremlin-1 in the homeostasis of the adipose tissue (AT). Of note, gremlin-1 is involved in AT dysfunction during type 2 diabetes, obesity and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) metabolic disorders. In this review we discuss recent findings on gremlin-1 involvement in AT biology, with particular attention to its role in metabolic diseases, to highlight its potential as a prognostic marker and therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Grillo
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy.
| | - Cosetta Ravelli
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Georgia Colleluori
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Marche Polytechnic University, Via Tronto 10/A, 60020 Ancona, Italy
| | - Francesco D'Agostino
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Mattia Domenichini
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Antonio Giordano
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Marche Polytechnic University, Via Tronto 10/A, 60020 Ancona, Italy
| | - Stefania Mitola
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
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Yamamoto T, Kambayashi Y, Otsuka Y, Afouda B, Giuraniuc C, Michiue T, Hoppler S. Positive feedback regulation of frizzled-7 expression robustly shapes a steep Wnt gradient in Xenopus heart development, together with sFRP1 and heparan sulfate. eLife 2022; 11:73818. [PMID: 35942683 PMCID: PMC9363125 DOI: 10.7554/elife.73818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Secreted molecules called morphogens govern tissue patterning in a concentration-dependent manner. However, it is still unclear how reproducible patterning can be achieved with diffusing molecules, especially when that patterning concerns differentiation of thin tissues. Wnt is a morphogen that organizes cardiac development. Wnt6 patterns cardiogenic mesoderm to induce differentiation of a thin tissue, the pericardium, in Xenopus. In this study, we revealed that a Wnt receptor, frizzled-7, is expressed in a Wnt-dependent manner. With a combination of experiments and mathematical modeling, this receptor-feedback appears essential to shape a steep gradient of Wnt signaling. In addition, computer simulation revealed that this feedback imparts robustness against variations of Wnt ligand production and allows the system to reach a steady state quickly. We also found that a Wnt antagonist sFRP1, which is expressed on the opposite side of the Wnt source, accumulates on N-acetyl-rich heparan sulfate (HS). N-acetyl-rich HS concentration is high between the sources of Wnt and sFRP1, achieving local inhibition of Wnt signaling via restriction of sFRP1 spreading. These integrated regulatory systems restrict the Wnt signaling range and ensure reproducible patterning of the thin pericardium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takayoshi Yamamoto
- Department of Life Sciences, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, The University of Tokyo
| | - Yuta Kambayashi
- Department of Life Sciences, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, The University of Tokyo
| | - Yuta Otsuka
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo
| | - Boni Afouda
- Institute of Medical Sciences, The University of Aberdeen
| | | | - Tatsuo Michiue
- Department of Life Sciences, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, The University of Tokyo
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo
| | - Stefan Hoppler
- Institute of Medical Sciences, The University of Aberdeen
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Diaz-Payno PJ, Browe D, Freeman FE, Nulty J, Burdis R, Kelly DJ. GREM1 suppresses hypertrophy of engineered cartilage in vitro but not bone formation in vivo. Tissue Eng Part A 2022; 28:724-736. [PMID: 35297694 DOI: 10.1089/ten.tea.2021.0176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Current repair of articular cartilage (AC) often leads to a lower quality tissue with an unstable hypertrophic phenotype, susceptible to endochondral ossification and development of osteoarthritis. Engineering phenotypically stable AC remains a significant challenge in the cartilage engineering field. This motivates new strategies inspired from the extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins unique to phenotypically stable AC. We have previously shown that BMP antagonist gremlin-1 (GREM1) protein, present in permanent but not transient cartilage, suppresses the hypertrophy of chondrogenically primed bone marrow stem cells (BMSCs) in pellet culture. The goal of this study was to assess the effect of GREM1 on the in vitro and in vivo phenotypic stability of porcine BMSC derived cartilage engineered within chondro-permissive scaffolds. In addition, we explored whether GREM1 would synergise with physioxia, a potent chondrogenesis regulator, when engineering cartilage grafts. GREM1 did not influence the expression of chondrogenic markers (SOX-9, COL2A1), but did suppress the expression of hypertrophic markers (MMP13, COL10A1) in vitro. Cartilage engineered with GREM1 contained higher levels of residual cartilage after 4 weeks in vivo, but endochondral bone formation was not prevented. Higher GREM1 levels did not significantly alter the fate of engineered tissues in vitro or in vivo. The combination of physioxia and GREM1 resulted in higher sGAG deposition in vitro and greater retention of cartilage matrix in vivo than physioxia alone, but again did not suppress endochondral ossification. Therefore, while physioxia and GREM1 regulate BMSCs chondrogenesis in vitro and reduce cartilage loss in vivo, their use does not guarantee the development of stable cartilage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro J Diaz-Payno
- University of Dublin Trinity College Department of Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineering, 548636, Dublin, Ireland;
| | - David Browe
- University of Dublin Trinity College Department of Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineering, 548636, Dublin, Ireland;
| | - Fiona E Freeman
- University of Dublin Trinity College Department of Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineering, 548636, Dublin, Ireland;
| | - Jessica Nulty
- University of Dublin Trinity College Department of Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineering, 548636, Dublin, Ireland;
| | - Ross Burdis
- University of Dublin Trinity College Department of Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineering, 548636, Dublin, Ireland;
| | - Daniel John Kelly
- University of Dublin Trinity College Department of Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineering, 548636, Dublin, Ireland;
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Mitola S, Ravelli C, Corsini M, Gianoncelli A, Galvagni F, Ballmer-Hofer K, Presta M, Grillo E. Production and Biochemical Characterization of Dimeric Recombinant Gremlin-1. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23031151. [PMID: 35163075 PMCID: PMC8835488 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23031151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Revised: 01/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Gremlin-1 is a secreted cystine-knot protein that acts as an antagonist of bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), and as a ligand of heparin and the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2), thus regulating several physiological and pathological processes, including embryonic development, tissue fibrosis and cancer. Gremlin-1 exerts all these biological activities only in its homodimeric form. Here, we propose a multi-step approach for the expression and purification of homodimeric, fully active, histidine-tagged recombinant gremlin-1, using mammalian HEK293T cells. Ion metal affinity chromatography (IMAC) of crude supernatant followed by heparin-affinity chromatography enables obtaining a highly pure recombinant dimeric gremlin-1 protein, exhibiting both BMP antagonist and potent VEGFR2 agonist activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Mitola
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (C.R.); (M.C.); (A.G.); (M.P.)
- Correspondence: (S.M.); (E.G.)
| | - Cosetta Ravelli
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (C.R.); (M.C.); (A.G.); (M.P.)
| | - Michela Corsini
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (C.R.); (M.C.); (A.G.); (M.P.)
| | - Alessandra Gianoncelli
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (C.R.); (M.C.); (A.G.); (M.P.)
| | - Federico Galvagni
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy;
| | - Kurt Ballmer-Hofer
- Biomolecular Research, Paul Scherrer Institute, 5232 Villigen, Switzerland;
| | - Marco Presta
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (C.R.); (M.C.); (A.G.); (M.P.)
| | - Elisabetta Grillo
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (C.R.); (M.C.); (A.G.); (M.P.)
- Correspondence: (S.M.); (E.G.)
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Cholenic acid derivative UniPR1331 impairs tumor angiogenesis via blockade of VEGF/VEGFR2 in addition to Eph/ephrin. Cancer Gene Ther 2022; 29:908-917. [PMID: 34426652 PMCID: PMC9293752 DOI: 10.1038/s41417-021-00379-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Revised: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels from preexisting ones, is crucial for tumor growth and metastatization, and is considered a promising therapeutic target. Unfortunately, drugs directed against a specific proangiogenic growth factor or receptor turned out to be of limited benefit for oncology patients, likely due to the high biochemical redundancy of the neovascularization process. In this scenario, multitarget compounds that are able to simultaneously tackle different proangiogenic pathways are eagerly awaited. UniPR1331 is a 3β-hydroxy-Δ5-cholenic acid derivative, which is already known to inhibit Eph-ephrin interaction. Here, we employed an analysis pipeline consisting of molecular modeling and simulation, surface plasmon resonance spectrometry, biochemical assays, and endothelial cell models to demonstrate that UniPR1331 directly interacts with the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2) too. The binding of UniPR1331 to VEGFR2 prevents its interaction with the natural ligand vascular endothelial growth factor and subsequent autophosphorylation, signal transduction, and in vitro proangiogenic activation of endothelial cells. In vivo, UniPR1331 inhibits tumor cell-driven angiogenesis in zebrafish. Taken together, these data shed light on the pleiotropic pharmacological effect of UniPR1331, and point to Δ5-cholenic acid as a promising molecular scaffold for the development of multitarget antiangiogenic compounds.
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HIV-1 Tat and Heparan Sulfate Proteoglycans Orchestrate the Setup of in Cis and in Trans Cell-Surface Interactions Functional to Lymphocyte Trans-Endothelial Migration. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26247488. [PMID: 34946571 PMCID: PMC8705413 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26247488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Revised: 12/04/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
HIV-1 transactivating factor Tat is released by infected cells. Extracellular Tat homodimerizes and engages several receptors, including integrins, vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2) and heparan sulfate proteoglycan (HSPG) syndecan-1 expressed on various cells. By means of experimental cell models recapitulating the processes of lymphocyte trans-endothelial migration, here, we demonstrate that upon association with syndecan-1 expressed on lymphocytes, Tat triggers simultaneously the in cis activation of lymphocytes themselves and the in trans activation of endothelial cells (ECs). This "two-way" activation eventually induces lymphocyte adhesion and spreading onto the substrate and vascular endothelial (VE)-cadherin reorganization at the EC junctions, with consequent endothelial permeabilization, leading to an increased extravasation of Tat-presenting lymphocytes. By means of a panel of biochemical activation assays and specific synthetic inhibitors, we demonstrate that during the above-mentioned processes, syndecan-1, integrins, FAK, src and ERK1/2 engagement and activation are needed in the lymphocytes, while VEGFR2, integrin, src and ERK1/2 are needed in the endothelium. In conclusion, the Tat/syndecan-1 complex plays a central role in orchestrating the setup of the various in cis and in trans multimeric complexes at the EC/lymphocyte interface. Thus, by means of computational molecular modelling, docking and dynamics, we also provide a characterization at an atomic level of the binding modes of the Tat/heparin interaction, with heparin herein used as a structural analogue of the heparan sulfate chains of syndecan-1.
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11
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Opazo JC, Hoffmann FG, Zavala K, Edwards SV. Evolution of the DAN gene family in vertebrates. Dev Biol 2021; 482:34-43. [PMID: 34902310 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2021.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Revised: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The DAN gene family (DAN, Differential screening-selected gene Aberrant in Neuroblastoma) is a group of genes that is expressed during development and plays fundamental roles in limb bud formation and digitation, kidney formation and morphogenesis and left-right axis specification. During adulthood the expression of these genes are associated with diseases, including cancer. Although most of the attention to this group of genes has been dedicated to understanding its role in physiology and development, its evolutionary history remains poorly understood. Thus, the goal of this study is to investigate the evolutionary history of the DAN gene family in vertebrates, with the objective of complementing the already abundant physiological information with an evolutionary context. Our results recovered the monophyly of all DAN gene family members and divide them into five main groups. In addition to the well-known DAN genes, our phylogenetic results revealed the presence of two new DAN gene lineages; one is only retained in cephalochordates, whereas the other one (GREM3) was only identified in cartilaginous fish, holostean fish, and coelacanth. According to the phyletic distribution of the genes, the ancestor of gnathostomes possessed a repertoire of eight DAN genes, and during the radiation of the group GREM1, GREM2, SOST, SOSTDC1, and NBL1 were retained in all major groups, whereas, GREM3, CER1, and DAND5 were differentially lost.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan C Opazo
- Integrative Biology Group, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile; Instituto de Ciencias Ambientales y Evolutivas, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile; David Rockefeller Center for Latin American Studies, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA; Millennium Nucleus of Ion Channels-Associated Diseases (MiNICAD), Chile.
| | - Federico G Hoffmann
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Entomology, and Plant Pathology, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, 39762, USA; Institute for Genomics, Biocomputing, and Biotechnology, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, 39762, USA
| | - Kattina Zavala
- Instituto de Ciencias Ambientales y Evolutivas, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Scott V Edwards
- Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA
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Angiogenesis in the Normal Adrenal Fetal Cortex and Adrenocortical Tumors. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13051030. [PMID: 33804534 PMCID: PMC7957756 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13051030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Angiogenesis plays an important role in several physiological and pathological processes. Pharmacological angiogenesis modulation has been robustly demonstrated to achieve clinical benefits in several cancers. Adrenocortical carcinomas (ACC) are rare tumors that often have a poor prognosis. In addition, therapeutic options for ACC are limited. Understanding the mechanisms that regulate adrenocortical angiogenesis along the embryonic development and in ACC could provide important clues on how these processes could be pharmacologically modulated for ACC treatment. In this report, we performed an integrative review on adrenal cortex angiogenesis regulation in physiological conditions and ACC. During embryonic development, adrenal angiogenesis is regulated by both VEGF and Ang-Tie signaling pathways. In ACC, early research efforts were focused on VEGF signaling and this pathway was identified as a good prognostic factor and thus a promising therapeutic target. However, every clinical trial so far conducted in ACC using VEGF pathway- targeting drugs, alone or in combination, yielded disappointing results. In contrast, although the Ang-Tie pathway has been pointed out as an important regulator of fetal adrenocortical angiogenesis, its role is yet to be explored in ACC. In the future, further research on the role and efficacy of modulating both Ang-Tie and VEGF pathways in ACC is needed.
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13
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Khatib Shahidi R, M Hoffmann J, Hedjazifar S, Bonnet L, K Baboota R, Heasman S, Church C, Elias I, Bosch F, Boucher J, Hammarstedt A, Smith U. Adult mice are unresponsive to AAV8-Gremlin1 gene therapy targeting the liver. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0247300. [PMID: 33606810 PMCID: PMC7895349 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0247300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Gremlin 1 (GREM1) is a secreted BMP2/4 inhibitor which regulates commitment and differentiation of human adipose precursor cells and prevents the browning effect of BMP4. GREM1 is an insulin antagonist and serum levels are high in type 2 diabetes (T2D). We here examined in vivo effects of AAV8 (Adeno-Associated Viral vectors of serotype eight) GREM 1 targeting the liver in mature mice to increase its systemic secretion and also, in a separate study, injected recombinant GREM 1 intraperitoneally. The objective was to characterize systemic effects of GREM 1 on insulin sensitivity, glucose tolerance, body weight, adipose cell browning and other local tissue effects. Methods Adult mice were injected with AAV8 vectors expressing GREM1 in the liver or receiving regular intra-peritoneal injections of recombinant GREM1 protein. The mice were fed with a low fat or high fat diet (HFD) and followed over time. Results Liver-targeted AAV8-GREM1 did not alter body weight, whole-body glucose and insulin tolerance, or adipose tissue gene expression. Although GREM1 protein accumulated in liver cells, GREM1 serum levels were not increased suggesting that it may not have been normally processed for secretion. Hepatic lipid accumulation, inflammation and fibrosis were also not changed. Repeated intraperitoneal rec-GREM1 injections for 5 weeks were also without effects on body weight and insulin sensitivity. UCP1 was slightly but significantly reduced in both white and brown adipose tissue but this was not of sufficient magnitude to alter body weight. We validated that recombinant GREM1 inhibited BMP4-induced pSMAD1/5/9 in murine cells in vitro, but saw no direct inhibitory effect on insulin signalling and pAkt (ser 473 and thr 308) activation. Conclusion GREM1 accumulates intracellularly when overexpressed in the liver cells of mature mice and is apparently not normally processed/secreted. However, also repeated intraperitoneal injections were without effects on body weight and insulin sensitivity and adipose tissue UCP1 levels were only marginally reduced. These results suggest that mature mice do not readily respond to GREMLIN 1 but treatment of murine cells with GREMLIN 1 protein in vitro validated its inhibitory effect on BMP4 signalling while insulin signalling was not altered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roxana Khatib Shahidi
- The Lundberg Laboratory for Diabetes Research, Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, the Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Jenny M Hoffmann
- The Lundberg Laboratory for Diabetes Research, Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, the Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Shahram Hedjazifar
- The Lundberg Laboratory for Diabetes Research, Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, the Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Laurianne Bonnet
- The Lundberg Laboratory for Diabetes Research, Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, the Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Wallenberg Center for Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Ritesh K Baboota
- The Lundberg Laboratory for Diabetes Research, Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, the Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Stephanie Heasman
- Bioscience Metabolism, Research and Early Development, Cardiovascular, Renal and Metabolism (CVRM), BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Christopher Church
- Bioscience Metabolism, Research and Early Development, Cardiovascular, Renal and Metabolism (CVRM), BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Ivet Elias
- Center of Animal Biotechnology and Gene Therapy and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas (CIBERDEM)
| | - Fatima Bosch
- Center of Animal Biotechnology and Gene Therapy and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas (CIBERDEM)
| | - Jeremie Boucher
- The Lundberg Laboratory for Diabetes Research, Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, the Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Wallenberg Center for Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Bioscience Metabolism, Research and Early Development, Cardiovascular, Renal and Metabolism (CVRM), BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Ann Hammarstedt
- The Lundberg Laboratory for Diabetes Research, Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, the Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Ulf Smith
- The Lundberg Laboratory for Diabetes Research, Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, the Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
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14
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Zhao P, Liu X, Zhang X, Wang L, Su H, Wang L, He N, Zhang D, Li Z, Kang H, Sun A, Chen Z, Zhou L, Wang M, Zhang Y, Deng X, Fan Y. Flow shear stress controls the initiation of neovascularization via heparan sulfate proteoglycans within a biomimetic microfluidic model. LAB ON A CHIP 2021; 21:421-434. [PMID: 33351007 DOI: 10.1039/d0lc00493f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Endothelial cells (ECs) in vivo are subjected to three forms of shear stress induced by luminal blood flow, transendothelial flow and interstitial flow simultaneously. It is controversial that shear stress, especially the component induced by luminal flow, was thought to inhibit the initialization of angiogenesis and trigger arteriogenesis. Here, we combined microfabrication techniques and delicate numerical simulations to reconstruct the initial physiological microenvironment of neovascularization in vitro, where ECs experience high luminal shear stress, physiological transendothelial flow and various vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) distributions simultaneously. With the biomimetic microfluidic model, cell alignment and endothelial sprouting assays were carried out. We found that luminal shear stress inhibits endothelial sprouting and tubule formation in a dose-dependent manner. Although a high concentration of VEGF increases EC sprouting, neither a positive nor a negative VEGF gradient additionally affects the degree of sprouting, and luminal shear stress significantly attenuates neovascularization even in the presence of VEGF. Heparinase was used to selectively degrade the heparan sulfate proteoglycan (HSPG) coating on ECs and messenger RNA profiles in ECs were analyzed. It turned out that HSPGs could act as a mechanosensor to sense the change of fluid shear stress, modulate multiple EC gene expressions, and hence affect neovascularization. In summary, distraction from the stabilized state, such as decreased luminal shear stress, increased VEGF and the destructed mechanotransduction of HSPGs would induce the initiation of neovascularization. Our study highlights the key role of the magnitude and forms of shear stress in neovascularization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Zhao
- Key Laboratory for Biomechanics and Mechanobiology of the Ministry of Education, Beijing Advanced Innovation Centre for Biomedical Engineering, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, China.
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15
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Marquez-Exposito L, Cantero-Navarro E, R Rodrigues-Diez R, Orejudo M, Tejera-Muñoz A, Tejedor L, Rayego-Mateos S, Rández-Carbayo J, Santos-Sanchez L, Mezzano S, Lavoz C, Ruiz-Ortega M. Molecular Regulation of Notch Signaling by Gremlin. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2020; 1227:81-94. [PMID: 32072500 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-36422-9_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Gremlin is a member of the TGF-β superfamily that can act as a BMP antagonist, and recently, has been described as a ligand of the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2). Gremlin shares properties with the Notch signaling pathway. Both participate in embryonic development and are reactivated in pathological conditions. Gremlin is emerging as a potential therapeutic target and biomarker of renal diseases. Here we review the role of the Gremlin-VEGFR2 axis in renal damage and downstream signaling mechanisms, such as Notch pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Marquez-Exposito
- Cellular and Molecular Biology in Renal and Vascular Pathology, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Red de Investigación Renal (REDINREN), Madrid, Spain
| | - Elena Cantero-Navarro
- Cellular and Molecular Biology in Renal and Vascular Pathology, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Red de Investigación Renal (REDINREN), Madrid, Spain
| | - Raúl R Rodrigues-Diez
- Cellular and Molecular Biology in Renal and Vascular Pathology, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Red de Investigación Renal (REDINREN), Madrid, Spain
| | - Macarena Orejudo
- Cellular and Molecular Biology in Renal and Vascular Pathology, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Red de Investigación Renal (REDINREN), Madrid, Spain
| | - Antonio Tejera-Muñoz
- Cellular and Molecular Biology in Renal and Vascular Pathology, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Red de Investigación Renal (REDINREN), Madrid, Spain
| | - Lucia Tejedor
- Cellular and Molecular Biology in Renal and Vascular Pathology, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Red de Investigación Renal (REDINREN), Madrid, Spain
| | - Sandra Rayego-Mateos
- Cellular and Molecular Biology in Renal and Vascular Pathology, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Vascular and Renal Translational Research Group, Institut de Recerca Biomèdica de Lleida IRBLleida, Lleida, Spain
| | - Javier Rández-Carbayo
- Cellular and Molecular Biology in Renal and Vascular Pathology, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Red de Investigación Renal (REDINREN), Madrid, Spain
| | - Laura Santos-Sanchez
- Cellular and Molecular Biology in Renal and Vascular Pathology, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Red de Investigación Renal (REDINREN), Madrid, Spain
| | - Sergio Mezzano
- Division of Nephrology, School of Medicine, Universidad Austral, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Carolina Lavoz
- Division of Nephrology, School of Medicine, Universidad Austral, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Marta Ruiz-Ortega
- Cellular and Molecular Biology in Renal and Vascular Pathology, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain. .,Red de Investigación Renal (REDINREN), Madrid, Spain.
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16
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Pegge J, Tatsinkam AJ, Rider CC, Bell E. Heparan sulfate proteoglycans regulate BMP signalling during neural crest induction. Dev Biol 2019; 460:108-114. [PMID: 31883440 PMCID: PMC7196931 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2019.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2019] [Revised: 11/29/2019] [Accepted: 12/24/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signalling is key to many developmental processes, including early regionalisation of the ectoderm. The neural crest is induced here by a combination of BMP and Wnt signals from nearby tissues with many secreted factors contributing to its initial specification at the neural plate border. Gremlin 1 (Grem1) is a secreted BMP antagonist expressed in the neural crest in Xenopus laevis but its function here is unknown. As well as binding BMPs, Grem1 has been shown to interact with heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs), a family of cell surface macromolecules that regulate a diverse array of signalling molecules by affecting their availability and mode of action. This study describes the impact of HSPGs on the function of Grem1 in neural crest induction. It shows for the first time that Grem1 is required for neural crest development in a two-step process comprising an early HSPG-independent, followed by a late HSPG-dependent phase.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Pegge
- Centre for Developmental Neurobiology, King's College London, Guy's Campus, London, SE1 1UL, UK
| | - Arnold Junior Tatsinkam
- Centre for Biomedical Sciences, Royal Holloway University of London, Egham Hill, Egham, Surrey, TW20 0EX, UK
| | - Christopher C Rider
- Centre for Biomedical Sciences, Royal Holloway University of London, Egham Hill, Egham, Surrey, TW20 0EX, UK
| | - Esther Bell
- Centre for Developmental Neurobiology, King's College London, Guy's Campus, London, SE1 1UL, UK.
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17
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Shi J, Fan C, Zhuang Y, Sun J, Hou X, Chen B, Xiao Z, Chen Y, Zhan Z, Zhao Y, Dai J. Heparan sulfate proteoglycan promotes fibroblast growth factor-2 function for ischemic heart repair. Biomater Sci 2019; 7:5438-5450. [PMID: 31642823 DOI: 10.1039/c9bm01336a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
It is well known that the basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) promotes angiogenesis after myocardial infarction (MI), but its biological functions decrease in the event of diffusion, enzymolysis, and weak binding with co-receptors in vivo. Heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPG) are a major component of extracellular matrices and have been shown to regulate a wide range of cellular functions and bioprocesses by acting as a co-receptor for bFGF and affecting its bioactivities. However, the influence of HSPG on the function of bFGF after myocardial infarction is unknown. Here, exogenous HSPG along with bFGF was injected into the hearts of rats to deliver the angiogenic growth factor for ischemic heart repair following induced MI. The specific binding of HSPG with bFGF protein was demonstrated, which was about 6-fold stronger than the binding of bFGF with heparin. The biological mechanisms of HSPG binding with bFGF were further studied by cell adhesion assay, and assays of bFGF and matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2) activities demonstrated that HSPG enhances cell adhesion, promotes the bioactivity of bFGF in angiogenesis, and protects bFGF from enzymolysis. Our results indicate that HSPG has potential clinical utility as a delivery agent for heparin-binding growth factors. Additionally, HSPG shows high binding affinities with different ECM proteins which also help to anchor bFGF to heart tissue. Therefore, extracellular proteins that mimic the bio-scaffold of the extracellular matrix could promote the activities of bFGF to facilitate ischemic heart repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiajia Shi
- School of Nano Technology and Nano Bionics, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China and Key Laboratory for Nano-Bio Interface Research, Division of Nanobiomedicine, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Caixia Fan
- Key Laboratory for Nano-Bio Interface Research, Division of Nanobiomedicine, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Yan Zhuang
- Key Laboratory for Nano-Bio Interface Research, Division of Nanobiomedicine, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Jie Sun
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Orthopedic Institute, Soochow University, 708 Renmin Road, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215007, P.R. China
| | - Xianglin Hou
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.
| | - Bing Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.
| | - Zhifeng Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.
| | - Yanyan Chen
- Key Laboratory for Nano-Bio Interface Research, Division of Nanobiomedicine, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Zixuan Zhan
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, 210008, Nanjing, China
| | - Yannan Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.
| | - Jianwu Dai
- School of Nano Technology and Nano Bionics, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China and Key Laboratory for Nano-Bio Interface Research, Division of Nanobiomedicine, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou 215123, China and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.
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18
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Chandler KB, Costello CE, Rahimi N. Glycosylation in the Tumor Microenvironment: Implications for Tumor Angiogenesis and Metastasis. Cells 2019; 8:E544. [PMID: 31195728 PMCID: PMC6627046 DOI: 10.3390/cells8060544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2019] [Revised: 05/31/2019] [Accepted: 06/01/2019] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Just as oncogene activation and tumor suppressor loss are hallmarks of tumor development, emerging evidence indicates that tumor microenvironment-mediated changes in glycosylation play a crucial functional role in tumor progression and metastasis. Hypoxia and inflammatory events regulate protein glycosylation in tumor cells and associated stromal cells in the tumor microenvironment, which facilitates tumor progression and also modulates a patient's response to anti-cancer therapeutics. In this review, we highlight the impact of altered glycosylation on angiogenic signaling and endothelial cell adhesion, and the critical consequences of these changes in tumor behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Brown Chandler
- Center for Biomedical Mass Spectrometry, Department of Biochemistry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA.
| | - Catherine E Costello
- Center for Biomedical Mass Spectrometry, Department of Biochemistry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA.
| | - Nader Rahimi
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA.
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19
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Snigireva AV, Vrublevskaya VV, Skarga YY, Morenkov OS. Cell surface heparan sulfate proteoglycans are involved in the extracellular Hsp90-stimulated migration and invasion of cancer cells. Cell Stress Chaperones 2019; 24:309-322. [PMID: 30659446 PMCID: PMC6439002 DOI: 10.1007/s12192-018-0955-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2018] [Revised: 11/23/2018] [Accepted: 11/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The extracellular heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90) is known to participate in cell migration and invasion. Recently, we have shown that cell surface heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs) are involved in the binding and anchoring of extracellular Hsp90 to the plasma membrane, but the biological relevance of this finding was unclear. Here, we demonstrated that the digestion of heparan sulfate (HS) moieties of HSPGs with a heparinase I/III blend and the metabolic inhibition of the sulfation of HS chains by sodium chlorate considerably impair the migration and invasion of human glioblastoma A-172 and fibrosarcoma HT1080 cells stimulated by extracellular native Hsp90. Heparin, a polysaccharide closely related to HS, also reduced the Hsp90-stimulated migration and invasion of cells. Phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate, an intracellular inducer of cell motility bypassing the ligand activation of receptors, restored the basal migration of heparinase- and chlorate-treated cells almost to the control level, suggesting that the cell motility machinery was insignificantly affected in cells with degraded and undersulfated HS chains. On the other hand, the downstream phosphorylation of AKT in response to extracellular Hsp90 was substantially impaired in heparinase- and chlorate-treated cells as compared to untreated cells. Taken together, our results demonstrated for the first time that cell surface HSPGs play an important role in the migration and invasion of cancer cells stimulated by extracellular Hsp90 and that plasma membrane-associated HSPGs are required for the efficient transmission of signal from extracellular Hsp90 into the cell.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasiya V Snigireva
- Laboratory of Cell Culture and Cell Engineering, Institute of Cell Biophysics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow region, Institutskaya St. 3, Pushchino, 142290, Russia
| | - Veronika V Vrublevskaya
- Laboratory of Cell Culture and Cell Engineering, Institute of Cell Biophysics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow region, Institutskaya St. 3, Pushchino, 142290, Russia
| | - Yuri Y Skarga
- Laboratory of Cell Culture and Cell Engineering, Institute of Cell Biophysics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow region, Institutskaya St. 3, Pushchino, 142290, Russia
| | - Oleg S Morenkov
- Laboratory of Cell Culture and Cell Engineering, Institute of Cell Biophysics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow region, Institutskaya St. 3, Pushchino, 142290, Russia.
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20
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Rowan SC, Piouceau L, Cornwell J, Li L, McLoughlin P. EXPRESS: Gremlin1 blocks vascular endothelial growth factor signalling in the pulmonary microvascular endothelium. Pulm Circ 2018; 10:2045894018807205. [PMID: 30284507 PMCID: PMC7066471 DOI: 10.1177/2045894018807205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2018] [Accepted: 09/20/2018] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) antagonist gremlin 1 plays a central role in the pathogenesis of hypoxic pulmonary hypertension (HPH). Recently, non-canonical functions of gremlin 1 have been identified, including specific binding to the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 (VEGFR2). We tested the hypothesis that gremlin 1 modulates VEGFR2 signaling in the pulmonary microvascular endothelium. We examined the effect of gremlin 1 haploinsufficiency on the expression of VEGF responsive genes and proteins in the hypoxic (10% O2) murine lung in vivo. Using human microvascular endothelial cells in vitro we examined the effect of gremlin 1 on VEGF signaling. Gremlin 1 haploinsufficiency (Grem1+/–) attenuated the hypoxia-induced increase in gremlin 1 observed in the wild-type mouse lung. Reduced gremlin 1 expression in hypoxic Grem1+/– mice restored VEGFR2 expression and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) expression and activity to normoxic values. Recombinant monomeric gremlin 1 inhibited VEGFA-induced VEGFR2 activation, downstream signaling, and VEGF-induced increases in Bcl-2, cell number, and the anti-apoptotic effect of VEGFA in vitro. These results show that the monomeric form of gremlin 1 acts as an antagonist of VEGFR2 activation in the pulmonary microvascular endothelium. Given the previous demonstration that inhibition of VEGFR2 causes marked worsening of HPH, our results suggest that increased gremlin 1 in the hypoxic lung, in addition to blocking BMP receptor type-2 (BMPR2) signaling, contributes importantly to the development of PH by a non-canonical VEGFR2 blocking activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon C. Rowan
- UCD School of Medicine and Conway Institute,
University
College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Lucie Piouceau
- UCD School of Medicine and Conway Institute,
University
College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Joanna Cornwell
- UCD School of Medicine and Conway Institute,
University
College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Lili Li
- UCD School of Medicine and Conway Institute,
University
College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Paul McLoughlin
- UCD School of Medicine and Conway Institute,
University
College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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21
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Abstract
TGF-β family ligands function in inducing and patterning many tissues of the early vertebrate embryonic body plan. Nodal signaling is essential for the specification of mesendodermal tissues and the concurrent cellular movements of gastrulation. Bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling patterns tissues along the dorsal-ventral axis and simultaneously directs the cell movements of convergence and extension. After gastrulation, a second wave of Nodal signaling breaks the symmetry between the left and right sides of the embryo. During these processes, elaborate regulatory feedback between TGF-β ligands and their antagonists direct the proper specification and patterning of embryonic tissues. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge of the function and regulation of TGF-β family signaling in these processes. Although we cover principles that are involved in the development of all vertebrate embryos, we focus specifically on three popular model organisms: the mouse Mus musculus, the African clawed frog of the genus Xenopus, and the zebrafish Danio rerio, highlighting the similarities and differences between these species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Zinski
- University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104-6058
| | - Benjamin Tajer
- University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104-6058
| | - Mary C Mullins
- University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104-6058
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22
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Shaik S, Kennis B, Maegawa S, Schadler K, Yanwen Y, Callegari K, Lulla RR, Goldman S, Nazarian J, Rajaram V, Fangusaro J, Gopalakrishnan V. REST upregulates gremlin to modulate diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma vasculature. Oncotarget 2018; 9:5233-5250. [PMID: 29435175 PMCID: PMC5797046 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.23750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2017] [Accepted: 12/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) is a highly aggressive glial tumor that occurs in children. The extremely poor median and 5-year survival in children afflicted with DIPG highlights the need for novel biology-driven therapeutics. Here, we have implicated the chromatin remodeler and regulator of brain development called RE1 Silencing Transcription Factor (REST), in DIPG pathology. We show that REST protein is aberrantly elevated in at least 21% of DIPG tumors compared to normal controls. Its knockdown in DIPG cell lines diminished cell growth and decreased their tumorigenicity in mouse intracranial models. DIPGs are vascularized tumors and interestingly, REST loss in DIPG cells also caused a substantial decline in tumor vasculature as measured by a decrease in CD31 and VEGFR2 staining. These observations were validated in vitro, where a significant decline in tube formation by human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) was seen following REST-loss in DIPG cells. Mechanistically, REST controlled the secretion of a pro-angiogenic molecule and ligand for VEGFR2 called Gremlin-1 (GREM-1), and was associated with enhanced AKT activation. Importantly, the decline in tube formation caused by REST loss could be rescued by addition of recombinant GREM-1, which also caused AKT activation in HUVECs and human brain microvascular endothelial cells (HBMECs). In summary, our study is the first to demonstrate autocrine and paracrine functions for REST in DIPG development. It also provides the foundation for future investigations on anti-angiogenic therapies targeting GREM-1 in combination with drugs that target REST-associated chromatin remodeling activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shavali Shaik
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Bridget Kennis
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Shinji Maegawa
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Keri Schadler
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Yang Yanwen
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Keri Callegari
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Rishi R. Lulla
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Stewart Goldman
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Javad Nazarian
- Department of Integrative Systems Biology, George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Veena Rajaram
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Jason Fangusaro
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Vidya Gopalakrishnan
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Oncology, University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
- Center for Cancer Epigenetics, University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
- Brain Tumor Center, University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
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23
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Grillo E, Ravelli C, Corsini M, Ballmer-Hofer K, Zammataro L, Oreste P, Zoppetti G, Tobia C, Ronca R, Presta M, Mitola S. Monomeric gremlin is a novel vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 antagonist. Oncotarget 2018; 7:35353-68. [PMID: 27174917 PMCID: PMC5085234 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.9286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2015] [Accepted: 03/31/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Angiogenesis plays a key role in various physiological and pathological conditions, including inflammation and tumor growth. The bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) antagonist gremlin has been identified as a novel pro-angiogenic factor. Gremlin promotes neovascular responses via a BMP-independent activation of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) receptor-2 (VEGFR2). BMP antagonists may act as covalent or non-covalent homodimers or in a monomeric form, while VEGFRs ligands are usually dimeric. However, the oligomeric state of gremlin and its role in modulating the biological activity of the protein remain to be elucidated. Here we show that gremlin is expressed in vitro and in vivo both as a monomer and as a covalently linked homodimer. Mutagenesis of amino acid residue Cys141 prevents gremlin dimerization leading to the formation of gremlinC141A monomers. GremlinC141A monomer retains a BMP antagonist activity similar to the wild-type dimer, but is devoid of a significant angiogenic capacity. Notably, we found that gremlinC141A mutant engages VEGFR2 in a non-productive manner, thus acting as receptor antagonist. Accordingly, both gremlinC141A and wild-type monomers inhibit angiogenesis driven by dimeric gremlin or VEGF-A165. Moreover, by acting as a VEGFR2 antagonist, gremlinC141A inhibits the angiogenic and tumorigenic potential of murine breast and prostate cancer cells in vivo. In conclusion, our data show that gremlin exists in multiple forms endowed with specific bioactivities and provide new insights into the molecular bases of gremlin dimerization. Furthermore, we propose gremlin monomer as a new inhibitor of VEGFR2 signalling during tumor growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Grillo
- Experimental Oncology and Immunology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, 25123, Italy
| | - Cosetta Ravelli
- Experimental Oncology and Immunology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, 25123, Italy
| | - Michela Corsini
- Experimental Oncology and Immunology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, National Institute of Neurosciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, 25123, Italy
| | - Kurt Ballmer-Hofer
- Biomolecular Research, Molecular Cell Biology, Paul Scherrer Institut, Villigen, 5232, Switzerland
| | - Luca Zammataro
- Center of Genomics Science of IIT@SEMM, Milan, 20139, Italy
| | | | | | - Chiara Tobia
- Experimental Oncology and Immunology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, 25123, Italy
| | - Roberto Ronca
- Experimental Oncology and Immunology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, 25123, Italy
| | - Marco Presta
- Experimental Oncology and Immunology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, 25123, Italy.,Experimental Oncology and Immunology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, National Institute of Neurosciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, 25123, Italy
| | - Stefania Mitola
- Experimental Oncology and Immunology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, 25123, Italy
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24
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Chatterjee M, Behrendt A, Schmid M, Beck S, Schneider M, Mack A, Müller I, Geisler T, Gawaz M. Platelets as a novel source of Gremlin-1: Implications for thromboinflammation. Thromb Haemost 2017; 117:311-324. [DOI: 10.1160/th16-08-0665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2016] [Accepted: 11/08/2016] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
SummaryPlatelets mediating haemostasis-thrombosis are central players in coronary artery disease (CAD). We characterised platelets as a novel source of Gremlin-1. Platelets express Gremlin-1 like inflammatory and endothelial cells. Gremlin-1 co-localised with P-selectin containing randomly distributed α–granules under resting state, which were peripheralised following platelet activation or adhesion over fibrinogen-coated surface. Gremlin-1 release upon activation with ADP, CRP, and TRAP was detected as enhanced surface expression; also in activated platelet supernatant as detected by Western Blot following CRP activation and by ELISA upon activation with ADP, CRP, PAR-1, and PAR4 agonist. Recombinant (rh)Gremlin-1 synergistically enhanced CRP-triggered intracellular calcium mobilisation, ADP-TRAP induced platelet activation, aggregation, and thrombin-activation triggered apoptosis; also thrombus formation ex vivo. Intracellular localisation of macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) and Gremlin-1 a high-affinity binding partner and functional antagonist of MIF were found in intracoronary thrombus sections from acute coronary syndrome (ACS) patients and showed moderate overlap in α-granules of platelets. Intra-platelet Gremlin-1 levels were significantly decreased in ACS patients as compared to stable CAD (n=235). rhGremlin-1 also counteracted the anti-apoptotic and anti-thrombotic effects of rhMIF on platelets. Platelet-derived-Gremlin-1 prompted monocyte migration, facilitated adhesion under static and dynamic arterial flow conditions to collagen-adherent activated platelets; supported monocyte survival against BH-3-mimetic–induced apoptosis and macrophage differentiation in monocyte-platelet co-culture system, which were counteracted upon Gremlin-1 neutralisation. Thus platelet derived Gremlin-1 might contribute to the elevated circulating levels of Gremlin-1 in ACS and serve as a thrombo-inflammatory mediator in cardiovascular pathophysiologies.
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25
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Damioli V, Salvadori A, Beretta GP, Ravelli C, Mitola S. Multi-physics interactions drive VEGFR2 relocation on endothelial cells. Sci Rep 2017; 7:16700. [PMID: 29196628 PMCID: PMC5711959 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-16786-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2017] [Accepted: 11/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor-2 (VEGFR2) is a pro-angiogenic receptor, expressed on endothelial cells (ECs). Although biochemical pathways that follow the VEGFR2 activation are well established, knowledge about the dynamics of receptors on the plasma membrane remains limited. Ligand stimulation induces the polarization of ECs and the relocation of VEGFR2, either in cell protrusions or in the basal aspect in cells plated on ligand-enriched extracellular matrix (ECM). We develop a mathematical model in order to simulate the relocation of VEGFR2 on the cell membrane during the mechanical adhesion of cells onto a ligand-enriched substrate. Co-designing the in vitro experiments with the simulations allows identifying three phases of the receptor dynamics, which are controlled respectively by the high chemical reaction rate, by the mechanical deformation rate, and by the diffusion of free receptors on the membrane. The identification of the laws that regulate receptor polarization opens new perspectives toward developing innovative anti-angiogenic strategies through the modulation of EC activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Damioli
- Università degli Studi di Brescia, DIMI Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Brescia, 25123, Italy
| | - Alberto Salvadori
- Università degli Studi di Brescia, DICATAM, Department of Civil, Environmental, Architectural Engineering and Mathematics, Brescia, 25123, Italy.,Laboratory for Preventive and Personalized Medicine (MPP Lab), Università degli Studi di Brescia, Brescia, 25123, Italy
| | - Gian Paolo Beretta
- Università degli Studi di Brescia, DIMI Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Brescia, 25123, Italy
| | - Cosetta Ravelli
- Università degli Studi di Brescia, DMMT, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Brescia, 25123, Italy. .,Laboratory for Preventive and Personalized Medicine (MPP Lab), Università degli Studi di Brescia, Brescia, 25123, Italy.
| | - Stefania Mitola
- Università degli Studi di Brescia, DMMT, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Brescia, 25123, Italy. .,Laboratory for Preventive and Personalized Medicine (MPP Lab), Università degli Studi di Brescia, Brescia, 25123, Italy.
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26
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Contribution of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 sialylation to the process of angiogenesis. Oncogene 2017; 36:6531-6541. [PMID: 28783175 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2017.243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2016] [Revised: 05/30/2017] [Accepted: 06/12/2017] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 (VEGFR2) is the main pro-angiogenic receptor expressed by endothelial cells (ECs). Using surface plasmon resonance, immunoprecipitation, enzymatic digestion, immunofluorescence and cross-linking experiments with specific sugar-binding lectins, we demonstrated that VEGFR2 bears both α,1-fucose and α(2,6)-linked sialic acid (NeuAc). However, only the latter is required for VEGF binding to VEGFR2 and consequent VEGF-dependent VEGFR2 activation and motogenic response in ECs. Notably, downregulation of β-galactoside α(2,6)-sialyltransferase expression by short hairpin RNA transduction inhibits VEGFR2 α(2,6) sialylation that is paralleled by an increase of β-galactoside α(2,3)-sialyltransferase expression. This results in an ex-novo α(2,3)-NeuAc sialylation of the receptor that functionally replaces the lacking α(2,6)-NeuAc, thus allowing VEGF/VEGFR2 interaction. In keeping with the role of VEGFR2 sialylation in angiogenesis, the α(2,6)-NeuAc-binding lectin Sambucus nigra (SNA) prevents VEGF-dependent VEGFR2 autophosphorylation and EC motility, proliferation and motogenesis. In addition, SNA exerts a VEGF-antagonist activity in tridimensional angiogenesis models in vitro and in the chick-embryo chorioallantoic membrane neovascularization assay and mouse matrigel plug assay in vivo. In conclusion, VEGFR2-associated NeuAc plays an important role in modulating VEGF/VEGFR2 interaction, EC pro-angiogenic activation and neovessel formation. VEGFR2 sialylation may represent a target for the treatment of angiogenesis-dependent diseases.
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27
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Rider CC, Mulloy B. Heparin, Heparan Sulphate and the TGF-β Cytokine Superfamily. Molecules 2017; 22:molecules22050713. [PMID: 28468283 PMCID: PMC6154108 DOI: 10.3390/molecules22050713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2017] [Revised: 04/24/2017] [Accepted: 04/26/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Of the circa 40 cytokines of the TGF-β superfamily, around a third are currently known to bind to heparin and heparan sulphate. This includes TGF-β1, TGF-β2, certain bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) and growth and differentiation factors (GDFs), as well as GDNF and two of its close homologues. Experimental studies of their heparin/HS binding sites reveal a diversity of locations around the shared cystine-knot protein fold. The activities of the TGF-β cytokines in controlling proliferation, differentiation and survival in a range of cell types are in part regulated by a number of specific, secreted BMP antagonist proteins. These vary in structure but seven belong to the CAN or DAN family, which shares the TGF-β type cystine-knot domain. Other antagonists are more distant members of the TGF-β superfamily. It is emerging that the majority, but not all, of the antagonists are also heparin binding proteins. Any future exploitation of the TGF-β cytokines in the therapy of chronic diseases will need to fully consider their interactions with glycosaminoglycans and the implications of this in terms of their bioavailability and biological activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chris C Rider
- Centre for Biomedical Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, Royal Holloway University of London, Egham, Surrey TW20 0EX, UK.
| | - Barbara Mulloy
- Centre for Biomedical Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, Royal Holloway University of London, Egham, Surrey TW20 0EX, UK.
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28
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Tatsinkam AJ, Rune N, Smith J, Norman JT, Mulloy B, Rider CC. The binding of the bone morphogenetic protein antagonist gremlin to kidney heparan sulfate: Such binding is not essential for BMP antagonism. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2017; 83:39-46. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2016.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2016] [Revised: 11/03/2016] [Accepted: 12/10/2016] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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29
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Church RH, Ali I, Tate M, Lavin D, Krishnakumar A, Kok HM, Hombrebueno JR, Dunne PD, Bingham V, Goldschmeding R, Martin F, Brazil DP. Gremlin1 plays a key role in kidney development and renal fibrosis. Am J Physiol Renal Physiol 2017; 312:F1141-F1157. [PMID: 28100499 PMCID: PMC5495891 DOI: 10.1152/ajprenal.00344.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2016] [Revised: 11/30/2016] [Accepted: 01/10/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Gremlin1 (Grem1), an antagonist of bone morphogenetic proteins, plays a key role in embryogenesis. A highly specific temporospatial gradient of Grem1 and bone morphogenetic protein signaling is critical to normal lung, kidney, and limb development. Grem1 levels are increased in renal fibrotic conditions, including acute kidney injury, diabetic nephropathy, chronic allograft nephropathy, and immune glomerulonephritis. We demonstrate that a small number of grem1−/− whole body knockout mice on a mixed genetic background (8%) are viable, with a single, enlarged left kidney and grossly normal histology. The grem1−/− mice displayed mild renal dysfunction at 4 wk, which recovered by 16 wk. Tubular epithelial cell-specific targeted deletion of Grem1 (TEC-grem1-cKO) mice displayed a milder response in the acute injury and recovery phases of the folic acid model. Increases in indexes of kidney damage were smaller in TEC-grem1-cKO than wild-type mice. In the recovery phase of the folic acid model, associated with renal fibrosis, TEC-grem1-cKO mice displayed reduced histological damage and an attenuated fibrotic gene response compared with wild-type controls. Together, these data demonstrate that Grem1 expression in the tubular epithelial compartment plays a significant role in the fibrotic response to renal injury in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel H Church
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
| | - Imran Ali
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
| | - Mitchel Tate
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
| | - Deborah Lavin
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
| | - Arjun Krishnakumar
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
| | - Helena M Kok
- Utrecht Medical Centre, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Jose R Hombrebueno
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
| | - Philip D Dunne
- Centre for Cancer Research and Cell Biology, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland
| | - Victoria Bingham
- Centre for Cancer Research and Cell Biology, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland
| | | | - Finian Martin
- Conway Institute, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland; and
| | - Derek P Brazil
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom;
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30
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Mulloy B, Hogwood J, Gray E, Lever R, Page CP. Pharmacology of Heparin and Related Drugs. Pharmacol Rev 2016; 68:76-141. [PMID: 26672027 DOI: 10.1124/pr.115.011247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 216] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Heparin has been recognized as a valuable anticoagulant and antithrombotic for several decades and is still widely used in clinical practice for a variety of indications. The anticoagulant activity of heparin is mainly attributable to the action of a specific pentasaccharide sequence that acts in concert with antithrombin, a plasma coagulation factor inhibitor. This observation has led to the development of synthetic heparin mimetics for clinical use. However, it is increasingly recognized that heparin has many other pharmacological properties, including but not limited to antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antimetastatic actions. Many of these activities are independent of its anticoagulant activity, although the mechanisms of these other activities are currently less well defined. Nonetheless, heparin is being exploited for clinical uses beyond anticoagulation and developed for a wide range of clinical disorders. This article provides a "state of the art" review of our current understanding of the pharmacology of heparin and related drugs and an overview of the status of development of such drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Mulloy
- Sackler Institute of Pulmonary Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, King's College London, London, United Kingdom (B.M., C.P.P.); National Institute for Biological Standards and Control, Potters Bar, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom (J.H., E.G.); and University College London School of Pharmacy, London, United Kingdom (R.L.)
| | - John Hogwood
- Sackler Institute of Pulmonary Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, King's College London, London, United Kingdom (B.M., C.P.P.); National Institute for Biological Standards and Control, Potters Bar, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom (J.H., E.G.); and University College London School of Pharmacy, London, United Kingdom (R.L.)
| | - Elaine Gray
- Sackler Institute of Pulmonary Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, King's College London, London, United Kingdom (B.M., C.P.P.); National Institute for Biological Standards and Control, Potters Bar, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom (J.H., E.G.); and University College London School of Pharmacy, London, United Kingdom (R.L.)
| | - Rebecca Lever
- Sackler Institute of Pulmonary Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, King's College London, London, United Kingdom (B.M., C.P.P.); National Institute for Biological Standards and Control, Potters Bar, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom (J.H., E.G.); and University College London School of Pharmacy, London, United Kingdom (R.L.)
| | - Clive P Page
- Sackler Institute of Pulmonary Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, King's College London, London, United Kingdom (B.M., C.P.P.); National Institute for Biological Standards and Control, Potters Bar, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom (J.H., E.G.); and University College London School of Pharmacy, London, United Kingdom (R.L.)
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31
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Bayne RA, Donnachie DJ, Kinnell HL, Childs AJ, Anderson RA. BMP signalling in human fetal ovary somatic cells is modulated in a gene-specific fashion by GREM1 and GREM2. Mol Hum Reprod 2016; 22:622-33. [PMID: 27385727 PMCID: PMC5013871 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaw044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2016] [Accepted: 06/27/2016] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Do changes in the expression of bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) 2 and 4, and their antagonists Gremlin1 (GREM1) and Gremlin2 (GREM2) during human fetal ovarian development impact on BMP pathway activity and lead to changes in gene expression that may influence the fate and/or function of ovarian somatic cells? STUDY FINDING BMPs 2 and 4 differentially regulate gene expression in cultured human fetal ovarian somatic cells. Expression of some, but not all BMP target genes is antagonised by GREM1 and GREM2, indicating the existence of a mechanism to fine-tune BMP signal intensity in the ovary. Leucine-rich repeat-containing G-protein coupled receptor 5 (LGR5), a marker of immature ovarian somatic cells, is identified as a novel transcriptional target of BMP4. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Extensive re-organisation of the germ and somatic cell populations in the feto-neonatal ovary culminates in the formation of primordial follicles, which provide the basis for a female's future fertility. BMP growth factors play important roles at many stages of ovarian development and function. GREM1, an extracellular antagonist of BMP signalling, regulates the timing of primordial follicle formation in the mouse ovary, and mRNA levels of BMP4 decrease while those of BMP2 increase prior to follicle formation in the human fetal ovary. STUDY DESIGN, SAMPLES/MATERIALS, METHODS Expression of genes encoding BMP pathway components, BMP antagonists and markers of ovarian somatic cells were determined by quantitative (q)RT-PCR in human fetal ovaries (from 8 to 21 weeks gestation) and fetal ovary-derived somatic cell cultures. Ovarian expression of GREM1 protein was confirmed by immunoblotting. Primary human fetal ovarian somatic cell cultures were derived from disaggregated ovaries by differential adhesion and cultured in the presence of recombinant human BMP2 or BMP4, with or without the addition of GREM1 or GREM2. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE We demonstrate that the expression of BMP antagonists GREM1, GREM2 and CHRD increases in the lead-up to primordial follicle formation in the human fetal ovary, and that the BMP pathway is active in cultured ovarian somatic cells. This leads to differential changes in the expression of a number of genes, some of which are further modulated by GREM1 and/or GREM2. The positive transcriptional regulation of LGR5 (a marker of less differentiated somatic cells) by BMP4 in vitro suggests that increasing levels of GREM1 and reduced levels of BMP4 as the ovary develops in vivo may act to reduce LGR5 levels and allow pre-granulosa cell differentiation. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION While we have demonstrated that markers of different somatic cell types are expressed in the cultured ovarian somatic cells, their proportions may not represent the same cells in the intact ovary which also contains germ cells. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS This study extends previous work identifying germ cells as targets of ovarian BMP signalling, and suggests BMPs may regulate the development of both germ and somatic cells in the developing ovary around the time of follicle formation. LARGE SCALE DATA Not applicable. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS This work was supported by The UK Medical Research Council (Grant No.: G1100357 to RAA), and Medical Research Scotland (Grant No. 345FRG to AJC). The authors have no competing interests to declare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosemary A Bayne
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - Douglas J Donnachie
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - Hazel L Kinnell
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - Andrew J Childs
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, London NW1 0TU, UK
| | - Richard A Anderson
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK
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32
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Senturk B, Mercan S, Delibasi T, Guler MO, Tekinay AB. Angiogenic Peptide Nanofibers Improve Wound Healing in STZ-Induced Diabetic Rats. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2016; 2:1180-1189. [DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.6b00238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Berna Senturk
- Institute
of Materials Science and Nanotechnology, National Nanotechnology Research
Center (UNAM), Bilkent University, Ankara 06800, Turkey
| | - Sercan Mercan
- Department
of Endocrinology and Metabolism, ADACELL Cell Therapy, Regenerative Medicine and Research Hospital Etlik Polyclinic, Ankara, 06010, Turkey
| | - Tuncay Delibasi
- Department
of Endocrinology and Metabolism, ADACELL Cell Therapy, Regenerative Medicine and Research Hospital Etlik Polyclinic, Ankara, 06010, Turkey
- Department
of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine (Kastamonu), Hacettepe University, Ankara, 06100, Turkey
| | - Mustafa O. Guler
- Institute
of Materials Science and Nanotechnology, National Nanotechnology Research
Center (UNAM), Bilkent University, Ankara 06800, Turkey
| | - Ayse B. Tekinay
- Institute
of Materials Science and Nanotechnology, National Nanotechnology Research
Center (UNAM), Bilkent University, Ankara 06800, Turkey
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33
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Porcù E, Persano L, Ronca R, Mitola S, Bortolozzi R, Romagnoli R, Oliva P, Basso G, Viola G. The Novel Antitubulin Agent TR-764 Strongly Reduces Tumor Vasculature and Inhibits HIF-1α Activation. Sci Rep 2016; 6:27886. [PMID: 27292568 PMCID: PMC4904223 DOI: 10.1038/srep27886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2015] [Accepted: 05/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Tubulin binding agents (TBAs) are commonly used in cancer therapy as antimitotics. It has been described that TBAs, like combretastatin A-4 (CA-4), present also antivascular activity and among its derivatives we identified TR-764 as a new inhibitor of tubulin polymerization, based on the 2-(alkoxycarbonyl)-3-(3',4',5'-trimethoxyanilino)benzo[b]thiophene molecular skeleton. The antiangiogenic activity of TR-764 (1-10 nM) was tested in vitro on human umbilical endothelial cells (HUVECs), and in vivo, on the chick embryo chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) and two murine tumor models. TR-764 binding to tubulin triggers cytoskeleton rearrangement without affecting cell cycle and viability. It leads to capillary tube disruption, increased cell permeability, and cell motility reduction. Moreover it disrupts adherens junctions and focal adhesions, through mechanisms involving VE-cadherin/β-catenin and FAK/Src. Importantly, TR-764 is active in hypoxic conditions significantly reducing HIF-1α. In vivo TR-764 (1-100 pmol/egg) remarkably blocks the bFGF proangiogenic activity on CAM and shows a stronger reduction of tumor mass and microvascular density both in murine syngeneic and xenograft tumor models, compared to the lead compound CA-4P. Altogether, our results indicate that TR-764 is a novel TBA with strong potential as both antivascular and antitumor molecule that could improve the common anticancer therapies, by overcoming hypoxia-induced resistance mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Porcù
- Dipartimento di Salute della Donna e del Bambino, Laboratorio di Oncoematologia pediatrica, Università di Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy
| | - Luca Persano
- Dipartimento di Salute della Donna e del Bambino, Laboratorio di Oncoematologia pediatrica, Università di Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy
| | - Roberto Ronca
- Dipartimento di Medicina molecolare e traslazionale Unità di oncologia sperimentale ed immunologia. Università di Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Stefania Mitola
- Dipartimento di Medicina molecolare e traslazionale Unità di oncologia sperimentale ed immunologia. Università di Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Roberta Bortolozzi
- Dipartimento di Salute della Donna e del Bambino, Laboratorio di Oncoematologia pediatrica, Università di Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy
| | - Romeo Romagnoli
- Dipartimento di Scienze Chimiche e Farmaceutiche, Università di Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Paola Oliva
- Dipartimento di Scienze Chimiche e Farmaceutiche, Università di Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Basso
- Dipartimento di Salute della Donna e del Bambino, Laboratorio di Oncoematologia pediatrica, Università di Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy
| | - Giampietro Viola
- Dipartimento di Salute della Donna e del Bambino, Laboratorio di Oncoematologia pediatrica, Università di Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy
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34
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Structure of Gremlin-1 and analysis of its interaction with BMP-2. Biochem J 2016; 473:1593-604. [PMID: 27036124 PMCID: PMC4888461 DOI: 10.1042/bcj20160254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2015] [Accepted: 04/01/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
We have determined the crystal structure of Gremlin-1 and analysed its interaction with BMP-2. Our results suggest that Gremlin-1 does not inhibit BMP-2 by direct 1:1 binding, but possibly has a novel mechanism of sequestering BMP-2 into a larger oligomeric complex. Bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP-2) is a member of the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signalling family and has a very broad biological role in development. Its signalling is regulated by many effectors: transmembrane proteins, membrane-attached proteins and soluble secreted antagonists such as Gremlin-1. Very little is known about the molecular mechanism by which Gremlin-1 and other DAN (differential screening-selected gene aberrative in neuroblastoma) family proteins inhibit BMP signalling. We analysed the interaction of Gremlin-1 with BMP-2 using a range of biophysical techniques, and used mutagenesis to map the binding site on BMP-2. We have also determined the crystal structure of Gremlin-1, revealing a similar conserved dimeric structure to that seen in other DAN family inhibitors. Measurements using biolayer interferometry (BLI) indicate that Gremlin-1 and BMP-2 can form larger complexes, beyond the expected 1:1 stoichiometry of dimers, forming oligomers that assemble in alternating fashion. These results suggest that inhibition of BMP-2 by Gremlin-1 occurs by a mechanism that is distinct from other known inhibitors such as Noggin and Chordin and we propose a novel model of BMP-2–Gremlin-1 interaction yet not seen among any BMP antagonists, and cannot rule out that several different oligomeric states could be found, depending on the concentration of the two proteins.
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De Cecco L, Negri T, Brich S, Mauro V, Bozzi F, Dagrada G, Disciglio V, Sanfilippo R, Gronchi A, D'Incalci M, Casali PG, Canevari S, Pierotti MA, Pilotti S. Identification of a gene expression driven progression pathway in myxoid liposarcoma. Oncotarget 2015; 5:5965-77. [PMID: 25115389 PMCID: PMC4171605 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Aim: to investigate the events involved in the progression of myxoid liposarcoma (MLS). Gene expression profiling and immunohistochemical/biochemical analyses were applied to specimens representative of the opposite ends of the MLS spectrum: pure myxoid (ML) and pure round cell (RC) liposarcomas. The analyses revealed the involvement of both coding and non coding RNAs (SNORDs located in DLK1-DIO3 region) and support a model of stepwise progression mainly driven by epigenetic changes involving tumour vascular supply and tumoral cellular component. In this model, a switch in the vascular landscape from a normal to a pro-angiogenic signature and the silencing of DLK1-DIO3 region mark the progression from ML to RC in concert with the acquisition by the latter of the over-expression of YY1/C-MYC/HDAC2, together with over-expression of genes involved in cell proliferation and stemness: MKNK2, MSX1 and TRIM71. Taken together, these findings strongly suggest that to progress from ML to RC liposarcoma the cells have to overcome the epigenetic silencing restriction point in order to reset their new stem-like differentiation signature. Our findings provide a first attempt at identifying the missing links between ML and RC liposarcomas, that may also have broader applications in other clinico-pathological settings characterised by a spectrum of progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loris De Cecco
- Functional Genomics and Bioinformatics, Department of Experimental Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan Italy; These authors contributed equally to this work
| | - Tiziana Negri
- Laboratory of Experimental Molecular Pathology, Department of Diagnostic Pathology and Laboratory, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan Italy; These authors contributed equally to this work
| | - Silvia Brich
- Laboratory of Experimental Molecular Pathology, Department of Diagnostic Pathology and Laboratory, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan Italy
| | - Valentina Mauro
- Laboratory of Experimental Molecular Pathology, Department of Diagnostic Pathology and Laboratory, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan Italy
| | - Fabio Bozzi
- Laboratory of Experimental Molecular Pathology, Department of Diagnostic Pathology and Laboratory, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan Italy
| | - GianPaolo Dagrada
- Laboratory of Experimental Molecular Pathology, Department of Diagnostic Pathology and Laboratory, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan Italy
| | - Vittoria Disciglio
- Functional Genomics and Bioinformatics, Department of Experimental Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan Italy
| | - Roberta Sanfilippo
- Adult Mesenchymal Tumor Medical Oncology Unit, Cancer Medicine Department, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan Italy
| | - Alessandro Gronchi
- Department of Surgery, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan Italy
| | - Maurizio D'Incalci
- Department of Oncology, IRCCS, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri, Milan, Italy
| | - Paolo G Casali
- Adult Mesenchymal Tumor Medical Oncology Unit, Cancer Medicine Department, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan Italy
| | - Silvana Canevari
- Functional Genomics and Bioinformatics, Department of Experimental Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan Italy
| | - Marco A Pierotti
- Scientific Directorate, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan Italy
| | - Silvana Pilotti
- Laboratory of Experimental Molecular Pathology, Department of Diagnostic Pathology and Laboratory, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan Italy
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Graham JR, Williams CMM, Yang Z. MicroRNA-27b targets gremlin 1 to modulate fibrotic responses in pulmonary cells. J Cell Biochem 2015; 115:1539-48. [PMID: 24633904 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.24809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2013] [Accepted: 03/12/2014] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Fibrosis is a chronic disease characterized by an excessive deposition of scar tissue in the affected organs. A central mediator of this process is transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), which stimulates the production of extracellular matrix proteins such as collagens. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been implicated in both fibrosis as well as in TGF-β signaling, but the extent of their regulation has not been fully defined. A functional screen was conducted using a library of miRNA inhibitors to identify miRNAs that affect TGF-β-induced type I collagen expression, a key event in the development of fibrosis. The inhibition of one miRNA in particular, miR-27b, caused a significant increase in type I collagen expression. We found that miR-27b directly targets Gremlin 1 by binding to its 3'-UTR, reducing its mRNA levels. TGF-β signaling decreased miR-27b expression and caused a corresponding increase in Gremlin 1 levels, suggesting that TGF-β regulates Gremlin 1 expression in part by modulating miR-27b expression. Reducing Gremlin 1 levels by either siRNA-mediated gene silencing or by using the miR-27b mimic inhibited the expression of several genes known to be involved in fibrosis, while increasing Gremlin 1 levels by the addition of either recombinant protein or the miR-27b inhibitor enhanced the expression of these genes. In summary, we have demonstrated that miR-27b targets Gremlin 1, and that this regulation likely represents an important control point in fibrotic pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie R Graham
- Inflammation and Remodeling Research Unit, Pfizer, Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts, 02140
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Ravelli C, Grillo E, Corsini M, Coltrini D, Presta M, Mitola S. β3 Integrin Promotes Long-Lasting Activation and Polarization of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor 2 by Immobilized Ligand. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2015; 35:2161-71. [PMID: 26293466 PMCID: PMC4894810 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.115.306230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2015] [Accepted: 08/04/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text. Objective— During neovessel formation, angiogenic growth factors associate with the extracellular matrix. These immobilized factors represent a persistent stimulus for the otherwise quiescent endothelial cells (ECs), driving directional EC migration and proliferation and leading to new blood vessel growth. Vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2) is the main mediator of angiogenesis. Although VEGFR2 signaling has been deeply characterized, little is known about its subcellular localization during neovessel formation. Aim of this study was the characterization and molecular determinants of activated VEGFR2 localization in ECs during neovessel formation in response to matrix-immobilized ligand. Approach and Results— Here we demonstrate that ECs stimulated by extracellular matrix–associated gremlin, a noncanonical VEGFR2 ligand, are polarized and relocate the receptor in close contact with the angiogenic factor–enriched matrix both in vitro and in vivo. GM1 (monosialotetrahexosylganglioside)-positive planar lipid rafts, β3 integrin receptors, and the intracellular signaling transducers focal adhesion kinase and RhoA (Ras homolog gene family, member A) cooperate to promote VEGFR2 long-term polarization and activation. Conclusions— A ligand anchored to the extracellular matrix induces VEGFR2 polarization in ECs. Long-lasting VEGFR2 relocation is closely dependent on lipid raft integrity and activation of β3 integrin pathway. The study of the endothelial responses to immobilized growth factors may offer insights into the angiogenic process in physiological and pathological conditions, including cancer, and for a better engineering of synthetic tissue scaffolds to blend with the host vasculature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cosetta Ravelli
- From the Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Grillo
- From the Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Michela Corsini
- From the Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Daniela Coltrini
- From the Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Marco Presta
- From the Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy.
| | - Stefania Mitola
- From the Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy.
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Mulloy B, Rider CC. The Bone Morphogenetic Proteins and Their Antagonists. VITAMINS AND HORMONES 2015; 99:63-90. [PMID: 26279373 DOI: 10.1016/bs.vh.2015.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) and the growth and differentiation factors comprise a single family of some 20 homologous, dimeric cytokines which share the cystine-knot domain typical of the TGF-β superfamily. They control the differentiation and activity of a range of cell types, including many outside bone and cartilage. They serve as developmental morphogens, but are also important in chronic pathologies, including tissue fibrosis and cancer. One mechanism for enabling tight spatiotemporal control of their activities is through a number of antagonist proteins, including Noggin, Follistatin, Chordin, Twisted gastrulation (TSG), and the seven members of the Cerberus and Dan family. These antagonists are secreted proteins that bind selectively to particular BMPs with high affinity, thereby blocking receptor engagement and signaling. Most of these antagonists also possess a TGF-β cystine-knot domain. Here, we discuss current knowledge and understanding of the structures and activities of the BMPs and their antagonists, with a particular focus on the latter proteins. Recent advances in structural biology of BMP antagonists have begun the process of elucidating the molecular basis of their activity, displaying a surprising variety between the modes of action of these closely related proteins. We also discuss the interactions of the antagonists with the glycosaminoglycan heparan sulfate, which is found ubiquitously on cell surfaces and in the extracellular matrix.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Mulloy
- Centre for Biomedical Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, Royal Holloway, University of London, Egham, Surrey, United Kingdom
| | - Chris C Rider
- Centre for Biomedical Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, Royal Holloway, University of London, Egham, Surrey, United Kingdom.
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The agmatine-containing poly(amidoamine) polymer AGMA1 binds cell surface heparan sulfates and prevents attachment of mucosal human papillomaviruses. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2015; 59:5250-9. [PMID: 26077258 DOI: 10.1128/aac.00443-15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2015] [Accepted: 06/08/2015] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The agmatine-containing poly(amidoamine) polymer AGMA1 was recently shown to inhibit the infectivity of several viruses, including human papillomavirus 16 (HPV-16), that exploit cell surface heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs) as attachment receptors. The aim of this work was to assess the antiviral activity of AGMA1 and its spectrum of activity against a panel of low-risk and high-risk HPVs and to elucidate its mechanism of action. AGMA1 was found to be a potent inhibitor of mucosal HPV types (i.e., types 16, 31, 45, and 6) in pseudovirus-based neutralization assays. The 50% inhibitory concentration was between 0.34 μg/ml and 0.73 μg/ml, and no evidence of cytotoxicity was observed. AGMA1 interacted with immobilized heparin and with cellular heparan sulfates, exerting its antiviral action by preventing virus attachment to the cell surface. The findings from this study indicate that AGMA1 is a leading candidate compound for further development as an active ingredient of a topical microbicide against HPV and other sexually transmitted viral infections.
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40
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Mapping the heparin-binding site of the BMP antagonist gremlin by site-directed mutagenesis based on predictive modelling. Biochem J 2015; 470:53-64. [PMID: 26251446 DOI: 10.1042/bj20150228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2015] [Accepted: 06/11/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Gremlin is a member of the CAN (cerberus and DAN) family of secreted BMP (bone morphogenetic protein) antagonists and also an agonist of VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) receptor-2. It is critical in limb skeleton and kidney development and is re-expressed during tissue fibrosis. Gremlin binds strongly to heparin and heparan sulfate and, in the present study, we sought to investigate its heparin-binding site. In order to explore a putative non-contiguous binding site predicted by computational molecular modelling, we substituted a total of 11 key arginines and lysines located in three basic residue sequence clusters with homologous sequences from cerberus and DAN (differential screening selected gene abberative in neuroblastoma), CAN proteins which lack basic residues in these positions. A panel of six Myc-tagged gremlin mutants, MGR-1-MGR-6 (MGR, mutant gremlin), each containing different combinations of targeted substitutions, all showed markedly reduced affinity for heparin as demonstrated by their NaCl elution on heparin affinity chromatography, thus verifying our predictions. Both MGR-5 and MGR-6 retained BMP-4-binding activity comparable to that of wild-type gremlin. Low-molecular-mass heparin neither promoted nor inhibited BMP-4 binding. Finally, glutaraldehyde cross-linking demonstrated that gremlin forms non-covalent dimers, similar behaviour to that of DAN and also PRDC (protein related to cerberus and DAN), another CAN protein. The resulting dimer would possess two heparin-binding sites, each running along an exposed surface on the second β-strand finger loop of one of the monomers.
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Lavoz C, Alique M, Rodrigues-Diez R, Pato J, Keri G, Mezzano S, Egido J, Ruiz-Ortega M. Gremlin regulates renal inflammation via the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 pathway. J Pathol 2015; 236:407-20. [PMID: 25810250 DOI: 10.1002/path.4537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2014] [Revised: 03/17/2015] [Accepted: 03/18/2015] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Inflammation is a main feature of progressive kidney disease. Gremlin binds to bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), acting as an antagonist and regulating nephrogenesis and fibrosis among other processes. Gremlin also binds to vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 (VEGFR2) in endothelial cells to induce angiogenesis. In renal cells, gremlin regulates proliferation and fibrosis, but there are no data about inflammatory-related events. We have investigated the direct effects of gremlin in the kidney, evaluating whether VEGFR2 is a functional gremlin receptor. Administration of recombinant gremlin to murine kidneys induced rapid and sustained activation of VEGFR2 signalling, located in proximal tubular epithelial cells. Gremlin bound to VEGFR2 in these cells in vitro, activating this signalling pathway independently of its action as an antagonist of BMPs. In vivo, gremlin caused early renal damage, characterized by activation of the nuclear factor (NF)-κB pathway linked to up-regulation of pro-inflammatory factors and infiltration of immune inflammatory cells. VEGFR2 blockade diminished gremlin-induced renal inflammatory responses. The link between gremlin/VEGFR2 and NF-κB/inflammation was confirmed in vitro. Gremlin overexpression was associated with VEGFR2 activation in human renal disease and in the unilateral ureteral obstruction experimental model, where VEGFR2 kinase inhibition diminished renal inflammation. Our data show that a gremlin/VEGFR2 axis participates in renal inflammation and could be a novel target for kidney disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Lavoz
- Cellular Biology in Renal Diseases Laboratory, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma Madrid, REDINREN, Spain
| | - Matilde Alique
- Cellular Biology in Renal Diseases Laboratory, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma Madrid, REDINREN, Spain
| | - Raquel Rodrigues-Diez
- Cellular Biology in Renal Diseases Laboratory, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma Madrid, REDINREN, Spain
| | | | - Gyorgy Keri
- VichemChemie Ltd, Budapest, Hungary.,MTA-SE Pathobiochemistry Research Group, Department of Medical Chemistry, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Sergio Mezzano
- Division of Nephrology, School of Medicine, Universidad Austral, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Jesús Egido
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension. IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma Madrid, CIBERDEM, Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta Ruiz-Ortega
- Cellular Biology in Renal Diseases Laboratory, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma Madrid, REDINREN, Spain
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Brazil DP, Church RH, Surae S, Godson C, Martin F. BMP signalling: agony and antagony in the family. Trends Cell Biol 2015; 25:249-64. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tcb.2014.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 183] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2014] [Revised: 12/01/2014] [Accepted: 12/02/2014] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
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Heparin/Heparan sulfate proteoglycans glycomic interactome in angiogenesis: biological implications and therapeutical use. Molecules 2015; 20:6342-88. [PMID: 25867824 PMCID: PMC6272510 DOI: 10.3390/molecules20046342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2015] [Revised: 03/31/2015] [Accepted: 04/01/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Angiogenesis, the process of formation of new blood vessel from pre-existing ones, is involved in various intertwined pathological processes including virus infection, inflammation and oncogenesis, making it a promising target for the development of novel strategies for various interventions. To induce angiogenesis, angiogenic growth factors (AGFs) must interact with pro-angiogenic receptors to induce proliferation, protease production and migration of endothelial cells (ECs). The action of AGFs is counteracted by antiangiogenic modulators whose main mechanism of action is to bind (thus sequestering or masking) AGFs or their receptors. Many sugars, either free or associated to proteins, are involved in these interactions, thus exerting a tight regulation of the neovascularization process. Heparin and heparan sulfate proteoglycans undoubtedly play a pivotal role in this context since they bind to almost all the known AGFs, to several pro-angiogenic receptors and even to angiogenic inhibitors, originating an intricate network of interaction, the so called "angiogenesis glycomic interactome". The decoding of the angiogenesis glycomic interactome, achievable by a systematic study of the interactions occurring among angiogenic modulators and sugars, may help to design novel antiangiogenic therapies with implications in the cure of angiogenesis-dependent diseases.
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Gremlin1 preferentially binds to bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2) and BMP-4 over BMP-7. Biochem J 2015; 466:55-68. [DOI: 10.1042/bj20140771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Gremlin1 has a distinct preference for which bone morphogenetic protein it binds to in kidney epithelial cells. Grem1–BMP-2 complexes are favoured over other BMPs, and this may play an important role in fibrotic kidney disease.
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45
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Billings PC, Pacifici M. Interactions of signaling proteins, growth factors and other proteins with heparan sulfate: mechanisms and mysteries. Connect Tissue Res 2015; 56:272-80. [PMID: 26076122 PMCID: PMC4785798 DOI: 10.3109/03008207.2015.1045066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Heparan sulfate (HS) is a component of cell surface and matrix-associated proteoglycans (HSPGs) that, collectively, play crucial roles in many physiologic processes including cell differentiation, organ morphogenesis and cancer. A key function of HS is to bind and interact with signaling proteins, growth factors, plasma proteins, immune-modulators and other factors. In doing so, the HS chains and HSPGs are able to regulate protein distribution, bio-availability and action on target cells and can also serve as cell surface co-receptors, facilitating ligand-receptor interactions. These proteins contain an HS/heparin-binding domain (HBD) that mediates their association and contacts with HS. HBDs are highly diverse in sequence and predicted structure, contain clusters of basic amino acids (Lys and Arg) and possess an overall net positive charge, most often within a consensus Cardin-Weintraub (CW) motif. Interestingly, other domains and residues are now known to influence protein-HS interactions, as well as interactions with other glycosaminoglycans, such as chondroitin sulfate. In this review, we provide a description and analysis of HBDs in proteins including amphiregulin, fibroblast growth factor family members, heparanase, sclerostin and hedgehog protein family members. We discuss HBD structural and functional features and important roles carried out by other protein domains, and also provide novel conformational insights into the diversity of CW motifs present in Sonic, Indian and Desert hedgehogs. Finally, we review progress in understanding the pathogenesis of a rare pediatric skeletal disorder, Hereditary Multiple Exostoses (HME), characterized by HS deficiency and cartilage tumor formation. Advances in understanding protein-HS interactions will have broad implications for basic biology and translational medicine as well as for the development of HS-based therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul C. Billings
- Translational Research Program in Pediatric Orthopaedics, Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, 3615 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA 19104
| | - Maurizio Pacifici
- Translational Research Program in Pediatric Orthopaedics, Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, 3615 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA 19104
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Angiogenic growth factors interactome and drug discovery: The contribution of surface plasmon resonance. Cytokine Growth Factor Rev 2014; 26:293-310. [PMID: 25465594 DOI: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2014.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2014] [Revised: 11/10/2014] [Accepted: 11/11/2014] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Angiogenesis is implicated in several pathological conditions, including cancer, and in regenerative processes, including the formation of collateral blood vessels after stroke. Physiological angiogenesis is the outcome of a fine balance between the action of angiogenic growth factors (AGFs) and anti-angiogenic molecules, while pathological angiogenesis occurs when this balance is pushed toward AGFs. AGFs interact with multiple endothelial cell (EC) surface receptors inducing cell proliferation, migration and proteases upregulation. On the contrary, free or extracellular matrix-associated molecules inhibit angiogenesis by sequestering AGFs (thus hampering EC stimulation) or by interacting with specific EC receptors inducing apoptosis or decreasing responsiveness to AGFs. Thus, angiogenesis results from an intricate network of interactions among pro- and anti-angiogenic molecules, EC receptors and various modulators. All these interactions represent targets for the development of pro- or anti-angiogenic therapies. These aims call for suitable technologies to study the countless interactions occurring during neovascularization. Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) is a label-free optical technique to study biomolecular interactions in real time. It has become the golden standard technology for interaction analysis in biomedical research, including angiogenesis. From a survey of the literature it emerges that SPR has already contributed substantially to the better understanding of the neovascularization process, laying the basis for the decoding of the angiogenesis "interactome" and the identification of "hub molecules" that may represent preferential targets for an efficacious modulation of angiogenesis. Here, the still unexploited full potential of SPR is enlightened, pointing to improvements in its use for a deeper understanding of the mechanisms of neovascularization and the identification of novel anti-angiogenic drugs.
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47
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Gremlin-1 inhibits macrophage migration inhibitory factor-dependent monocyte function and survival. Int J Cardiol 2014; 176:923-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2014.08.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2014] [Revised: 07/07/2014] [Accepted: 08/09/2014] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
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Nolan K, Thompson TB. The DAN family: modulators of TGF-β signaling and beyond. Protein Sci 2014; 23:999-1012. [PMID: 24810382 DOI: 10.1002/pro.2485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2014] [Revised: 04/30/2014] [Accepted: 05/01/2014] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Extracellular binding proteins or antagonists are important factors that modulate ligands in the transforming growth factor (TGF-β) family. While the interplay between antagonists and ligands are essential for developmental and normal cellular processes, their imbalance can lead to the pathology of several disease states. In particular, recent studies have implicated members of the differential screening-selected gene in neuroblastoma (DAN) family in disease such as renal fibrosis, pulmonary arterial hypertension, and reactivation of metastatic cancer stem cells. DAN family members are known to inhibit the bone morphogenetic proteins (BMP) of the TGF-β family. However, unlike other TGF-β antagonist families, DAN family members have roles beyond ligand inhibition and can modulate Wnt and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) signaling pathways. This review describes recent structural and functional advances that have expanded our understanding of DAN family proteins with regards to BMP inhibition and also highlights their emerging roles in the modulation of Wnt and VEGF signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristof Nolan
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Biochemistry, and Microbiology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45267
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Corsini M, Moroni E, Ravelli C, Andrés G, Grillo E, Ali IH, Brazil DP, Presta M, Mitola S. Cyclic adenosine monophosphate-response element-binding protein mediates the proangiogenic or proinflammatory activity of gremlin. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2013; 34:136-45. [PMID: 24233491 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.113.302517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Angiogenesis and inflammation are closely related processes. Gremlin is a novel noncanonical vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 (VEGFR2) ligand that induces a proangiogenic response in endothelial cells (ECs). Here, we investigated the role of the cyclic adenosine monophosphate-response element (CRE)-binding protein (CREB) in mediating the proinflammatory and proangiogenic responses of ECs to gremlin. APPROACH AND RESULTS Gremlin induces a proinflammatory response in ECs, leading to reactive oxygen species and cyclic adenosine monophosphate production and the upregulation of proinflammatory molecules involved in leukocyte extravasation, including chemokine (C-C motif) ligand-2 (Ccl2) and Ccl7, chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand-1 (Cxcl1), vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1). Accordingly, gremlin induces the VEGFR2-dependent phosphorylation, nuclear translocation, and transactivating activity of CREB in ECs. CREB activation mediates the early phases of the angiogenic response to gremlin, including stimulation of EC motility and permeability, and leads to monocyte/macrophage adhesion to ECs and their extravasation. All these effects are inhibited by EC transfection with a dominant-negative CREB mutant or with a CREB-binding protein-CREB interaction inhibitor that competes for CREB/CRE binding. Also, both recombinant gremlin and gremlin-expressing tumor cells induce proinflammatory/proangiogenic responses in vivo that are suppressed by the anti-inflammatory drug hydrocortisone. Similar effects were induced by the canonical VEGFR2 ligand VEGF-A165. CONCLUSIONS Together, the results underline the tight cross-talk between angiogenesis and inflammation and demonstrate a crucial role of CREB activation in the modulation of the VEGFR2-mediated proinflammatory/proangiogenic response of ECs to gremlin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michela Corsini
- From the Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy (M.C., E.M., C.R., E.G., M.P., S.M.); Electron Microscopy Unit, Centro de Biologia Molecular Severo Ochoa, Campus Cantoblanco, Madrid, Spain (G.A.); and Centre for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, ICS-A, Grosvenor Road, Belfast BT12 6BA, UK (I.H.A., D.P.B.)
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Müller I, Schönberger T, Schneider M, Borst O, Ziegler M, Seizer P, Leder C, Müller K, Lang M, Appenzeller F, Lunov O, Büchele B, Fahrleitner M, Olbrich M, Langer H, Geisler T, Lang F, Chatterjee M, de Boer JF, Tietge UJF, Bernhagen J, Simmet T, Gawaz M. Gremlin-1 is an inhibitor of macrophage migration inhibitory factor and attenuates atherosclerotic plaque growth in ApoE-/- Mice. J Biol Chem 2013; 288:31635-45. [PMID: 24003215 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m113.477745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Monocyte infiltration and macrophage formation are pivotal steps in atherosclerosis and plaque vulnerability. Gremlin-1/Drm is crucial in embryo-/organogenesis and has been shown to be expressed in the adult organism at sites of arterial injury and to inhibit monocyte migration. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate and characterize the role of Gremlin-1 in atherosclerosis. Here we report that Gremlin-1 is highly expressed primarily by monocytes/macrophages in aortic atherosclerotic lesions of ApoE(-/-) mice and is secreted from activated monocytes and during macrophage development in vitro. Gremlin-1 reduces macrophage formation by inhibiting macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF), a cytokine critically involved in atherosclerotic plaque progression and vulnerability. Gremlin-1 binds with high affinity to MIF (KD = 54 nm), as evidenced by surface plasmon resonance analysis and co-immunoprecipitation, and reduces MIF-induced release of TNF-α from macrophages. Treatment of ApoE(-/-) mice with a dimeric recombinant fusion protein, mGremlin1-Fc, but not with equimolar control Fc or inactivated mGremlin1-Fc, reduced TNF-α expression, the content of monocytes/macrophages of atherosclerotic lesions, and attenuated atheroprogression. The present data disclose that Gremlin-1 is an endogenous antagonist of MIF and define a role for Gremlin-1/MIF interaction in atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iris Müller
- From the Medizinische Klinik III, Kardiologie und Kreislauferkrankungen, Eberhard Karls Universität, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
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