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Fan C, Wang C, Wang Y, Jiang J. Transcriptome exploration of ferroptosis-related genes in TGFβ- induced lens epithelial to mesenchymal transition during posterior capsular opacification development. BMC Genomics 2024; 25:352. [PMID: 38594623 PMCID: PMC11003017 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-024-10244-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Posterior capsular opacification (PCO) is the main reason affecting the long-term postoperative result of cataract patient, and it is well accepted that fibrotic PCO is driven by transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) signaling. Ferroptosis, closely related to various ocular diseases, but has not been explored in PCO. METHODS RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) was performed on both TGF-β2 treated and untreated primary lens epithelial cells (pLECs). Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) associated with ferroptosis were analyzed using Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) to investigate their biological function. Additionally, protein-to-protein interactions among selected ferroptosis-related genes by PPI network and the top 10 genes with the highest score (MCC algorithm) were selected as the hub genes. The top 20 genes with significant fold change values were validated using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). RESULTS Our analysis revealed 1253 DEGs between TGF-β2 treated and untreated pLECs, uncovering 38 ferroptosis-related genes between two groups. Among these 38 ferroptosis-related genes,the most prominent GO enrichment analysis process involved in the response to oxidative stress (BPs), apical part of cell (CCs),antioxidant activity (MFs). KEGG were mainly concentrated in fluid shear stress and atherosclerosis, IL-17 and TNF signaling pathways, and validation of top 20 genes with significant fold change value were consistent with RNA-seq. CONCLUSIONS Our RNA-Seq data identified 38 ferroptosis-related genes in TGF-β2 treated and untreated pLECs, which is the first observation of ferroptosis related genes in primary human lens epithelial cells under TGF-β2 stimulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cong Fan
- Eye Center of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Chao Wang
- Eye Center of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, USA
| | - Jian Jiang
- Eye Center of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.
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Li D, Che X, Gao N, Li J. CircSTRBP contributes to H 2O 2-induced lens epithelium cell dysfunction through increasing NOX4 mRNA stability by recruiting IGF2BP1. Exp Eye Res 2024; 241:109817. [PMID: 38340945 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2024.109817] [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: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
Previous studies have shown that the development of age-related cataract (ARC) is involved in lens epithelium dysfunction, which is associated with abnormally expressed circular RNAs (circRNAs). The current work aims to probe the role of circSTRBP (hsa_circ_0088,427) in hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-induced lens epitheliums. Lens epithelium tissues were harvested from ARC or normal subjects (n = 23). CircSTRBP, spermatid perinuclear RNA binding protein (STRBP), and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase subunit 4 (NOX4) levels were measured using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Cell proliferation, cycle progression, and apoptosis were assessed using 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EdU), Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8), and flow cytometry assays. Caspase 3 activity, reactive oxygen species (ROS), malondialdehyde (MDA), and Glutathione peroxidases (GSH-PX) levels were detected using corresponding kits. NOX4 protein level was determined using Western blot. The interaction between insulin-like growth factor 2 mRNA-binding protein 1 (IGF2BP1) and circSTRBP or NOX4 was assessed through RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP). CircSTRBP and NOX4 abundances were increased in lens epithelium samples from ARC patients and H2O2-treated SRA01/04 cells. CircSTRBP knockdown might abolish H2O2-triggered SRA01/04 cell proliferation repression and apoptosis and oxidative stress promotion. In mechanism, circSTRBP is bound with IGF2BP1 and improves the stability and expression of NOX4 mRNA in SRA01/04 cells. CircSTRBP facilitated H2O2-induced SRA01/04 cell apoptosis and oxidative stress through by enhancing NOX4 mRNA stability via recruiting IGF2BP1, providing novel insights for ARC progression and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Di Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shaanxi Provincial People's Hospital, Xi'an, China.
| | - Xuanyi Che
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shaanxi Provincial People's Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Ningning Gao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shaanxi Provincial People's Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Jing Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shaanxi Provincial People's Hospital, Xi'an, China
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3
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VanSlyke JK, Boswell BA, Musil LS. Tonic ErbB signaling underlies TGFβ-induced activation of ERK and is required for lens cell epithelial to myofibroblast transition. Mol Biol Cell 2024; 35:ar35. [PMID: 38170570 PMCID: PMC10916858 DOI: 10.1091/mbc.e23-07-0294] [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: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis is a major, but incompletely understood, component of many diseases. The most common vision-disrupting complication of cataract surgery involves differentiation of residual lens cells into myofibroblasts. In serum-free primary cultures of lens epithelial cells (DCDMLs), inhibitors of either ERK or of ErbB signaling prevent TGFβ from upregulating both early (fibronectin) and late (αSMA) markers of myofibroblast differentiation. TGFβ stimulates ERK in DCDMLs within 1.5 h. Kinase inhibitors of ErbBs, but not of several other growth factor receptors in lens cells, reduce phospho ERK to below basal levels in the absence or presence of TGFβ. This effect is attributable to constitutive ErbB activity playing a major role in regulating the basal levels pERK. Additional studies support a model in which TGFβ-generated reactive oxygen species serve to indirectly amplify ERK signaling downstream of tonically active ErbBs to mediate myofibroblast differentiation. ERK activity is in turn essential for expression of ErbB1 and ErbB2, major inducers of ERK signaling. By mechanistically linking TGFβ, ErbB, and ERK signaling to myofibroblast differentiation, our data elucidate a new role for ErbBs in fibrosis and reveal a novel mode by which TGFβ directs lens cell fate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judy K. VanSlyke
- Department of Chemical Physiology and Biochemistry, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239
| | - Bruce A. Boswell
- Department of Chemical Physiology and Biochemistry, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239
| | - Linda S. Musil
- Department of Chemical Physiology and Biochemistry, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239
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4
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Jing RH, Hu CH, Qi TT, Ma B. Role of reactive oxygen species in epithelial-mesenchymal transition and apoptosis of human lens epithelial cells. Int J Ophthalmol 2023; 16:1935-1941. [PMID: 38111943 PMCID: PMC10700083 DOI: 10.18240/ijo.2023.12.04] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM To investigate the role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and apoptosis of human lens epithelial cells (HLECs). METHODS Flow cytometry was used to assess ROS production after transforming growth factor β2 (TGF-β2) induction. Apoptosis of HLECs after H2O2 and TGF-β2 interference with or without ROS scavenger N-acetylcysteine (NAC) were assessed by flow cytometry. The corresponding protein expression levels of the EMT marker α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), the extracellular matrix (ECM), marker fibronectin (Fn), and apoptosis-associated proteins were detected by using Western blotting in the presence of an ROS scavenger (NAC). Wound-healing and Transwell assays were used to assess the migration capability of HLECs. RESULTS TGF-β2 stimulates ROS production within 8h in HLECs. Additionally, TGF-β2 induced HLECs cell apoptosis, EMT/ECM synthesis protein markers expression, and pro-apoptotic proteins production; nonetheless, NAC treatment prevented these responses. Similarly, TGF-β2 promoted HLECs cell migration, whereas NAC inhibited cell migration. We further determined that although ROS initiated apoptosis, it only induced the accumulation of the EMT marker α-SMA protein, but not COL-1 or Fn. CONCLUSION ROS contribute to TGF-β2-induced EMT/ECM synthesis and cell apoptosis of HLECs; however, ROS alone are not sufficient for EMT/ECM synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui-Hua Jing
- Department of Ophthalmology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710004, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Cong-Hui Hu
- Department of Ophthalmology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Tian-Tian Qi
- Department of Ophthalmology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Bo Ma
- Department of Ophthalmology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, Shaanxi Province, China
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Yang J, Liu J, Liang J, Li F, Wang W, Chen H, Xie X. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition in age-associated thymic involution: Mechanisms and therapeutic implications. Ageing Res Rev 2023; 92:102115. [PMID: 37922996 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2023.102115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
The thymus is a critical immune organ with endocrine and immune functions that plays important roles in the physiological and pathological processes of the body. However, with aging, the thymus undergoes degenerative changes leading to decreased production and output of naive T cells and the secretion of thymic hormones and related cytokines, thereby promoting the occurrence and development of various age-associated diseases. Therefore, identifying essential processes that regulate age-associated thymic involution is crucial for long-term control of thymic involution and age-associated disease progression. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a well-established process involved in organ aging and functional impairment through tissue fibrosis in several organs, such as the heart and kidney. In the thymus, EMT promotes fibrosis and potentially adipogenesis, leading to thymic involution. This review focuses on the factors involved in thymic involution, including oxidative stress, inflammation, and hormones, from the perspective of EMT. Furthermore, current interventions for reversing age-associated thymic involution by targeting EMT-associated processes are summarized. Understanding the key mechanisms of thymic involution through EMT as an entry point may promote the development of new therapies and clinical agents to reverse thymic involution and age-associated disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiali Yang
- The School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China; Public Center of Experimental Technology, Model Animal and Human Disease Research of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Juan Liu
- The School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China; Public Center of Experimental Technology, Model Animal and Human Disease Research of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Jiayu Liang
- The School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China; Public Center of Experimental Technology, Model Animal and Human Disease Research of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Fan Li
- The School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China; Public Center of Experimental Technology, Model Animal and Human Disease Research of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Wenwen Wang
- The School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China; Public Center of Experimental Technology, Model Animal and Human Disease Research of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Huan Chen
- The School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China; Nucleic Acid Medicine of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China.
| | - Xiang Xie
- The School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China; Public Center of Experimental Technology, Model Animal and Human Disease Research of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China.
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Chen X, Yang Y, Cai Y, Yang H, Wang F, Deng M. Lysine-Specific Demethylase 4D Is Critical for the Regulation of the Cell Cycle and Antioxidant Capacity in Goat Fibroblast Cells. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:1095. [PMID: 37626981 PMCID: PMC10451980 DOI: 10.3390/biology12081095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
Oxidative damage to skin fibroblast cells is a causative factor in many skin diseases. Previous studies have reported that lysine-specific demethylase 4D (Kdm4d) is involved in DNA replication, but its role on antioxidant capacity remains unclear. In the present study, we used goat fibroblast cells (GFCs) as the research model and identified 504 up-regulated and 1013 down-regulated genes following the knockdown of Kdm4d, respectively. The down-regulated genes of this enzyme were found to be enriched in the cell cycle, DNA replication, mitotic processes, and the oxidative phosphorylation pathway, as previously revealed from gene ontology (GO), Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG), and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA), suggesting vital roles of the Kdm4d enzyme in the cell cycle and in antioxidant regulation. To this end, we found the cell proliferation rate was significantly decreased after the knockdown of Kdm4d. Moreover, both the mRNA and protein expression levels of superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2), one of the major antioxidant enzymes, was decreased, while the reactive oxygen species (ROS) level was significantly increased in Kdm4d knocked-down cells. In addition, the expression of γH2A histone family member X (γH2AX) increased significantly, indicating the presence of DNA double-strand breaks after the knockdown of the Kdm4d enzyme. In conclusion, the knockdown of Kdm4d inhibited DNA replication and the cell cycle, repressed the expression of SOD2, and increased the generation of ROS, which led to the production of DNA damage in GFCs. Our data will be helpful for understanding the mechanism underlying antioxidant capacity regulation in fibroblast cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaowei Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; (X.C.); (Y.Y.); (Y.C.); (H.Y.)
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Yingnan Yang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; (X.C.); (Y.Y.); (Y.C.); (H.Y.)
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Yu Cai
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; (X.C.); (Y.Y.); (Y.C.); (H.Y.)
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Hua Yang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; (X.C.); (Y.Y.); (Y.C.); (H.Y.)
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Feng Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; (X.C.); (Y.Y.); (Y.C.); (H.Y.)
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Mingtian Deng
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; (X.C.); (Y.Y.); (Y.C.); (H.Y.)
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing 210095, China
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Shu DY, Chaudhary S, Cho KS, Lennikov A, Miller WP, Thorn DC, Yang M, McKay TB. Role of Oxidative Stress in Ocular Diseases: A Balancing Act. Metabolites 2023; 13:187. [PMID: 36837806 PMCID: PMC9960073 DOI: 10.3390/metabo13020187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Revised: 01/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Redox homeostasis is a delicate balancing act of maintaining appropriate levels of antioxidant defense mechanisms and reactive oxidizing oxygen and nitrogen species. Any disruption of this balance leads to oxidative stress, which is a key pathogenic factor in several ocular diseases. In this review, we present the current evidence for oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction in conditions affecting both the anterior segment (e.g., dry eye disease, keratoconus, cataract) and posterior segment (age-related macular degeneration, proliferative vitreoretinopathy, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma) of the human eye. We posit that further development of therapeutic interventions to promote pro-regenerative responses and maintenance of the redox balance may delay or prevent the progression of these major ocular pathologies. Continued efforts in this field will not only yield a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of ocular diseases but also enable the identification of novel druggable redox targets and antioxidant therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daisy Y. Shu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Mass Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Suman Chaudhary
- Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Mass Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Kin-Sang Cho
- Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Mass Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Anton Lennikov
- Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Mass Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - William P. Miller
- Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Mass Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - David C. Thorn
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Menglu Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Mass Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Tina B. McKay
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
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8
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Gupta V, Garg A, Tomar R, Arora MK. Oxidative Stress: Meeting Multiple Targets in Pathogenesis of Vascular Endothelial Dysfunction. Curr Drug Targets 2022; 23:902-912. [PMID: 35240954 DOI: 10.2174/1389450123666220303090413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Revised: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Vascular endothelium is the innermost lining of blood vessels, which maintains vasoconstriction and vasodilation. Loss of vascular tone is a hallmark for cardiovascular disorders. Though there are numerous factors, such as over activation of renin angiotensin aldosterone system, kinases, growth factors, etc. play crucial role in induction and progression of vascular abrasion. Interestingly, dysregulation of these pathways either enhances the intensity of oxidative stress, or these pathways are affected by oxidative stress. Thus, oxidative stress has been considered a key culprit in the progression of vascular endothelial dysfunction. Oxidative stress induced by reactive oxygen and nitrogen species causes abnormal gene expression, alteration in signal transduction, and the activation of pathways leading to induction and progression of vascular injury. In addition, numerous antioxidants have been noted to possess promising therapeutic potential in preventing the development of vascular endothelial dysfunction. Therefore, we have focused on current perspectives in oxidative stress signalling to evaluate common biological processes whereby oxidative stress plays a crucial role in the progression of vascular endothelial dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vardan Gupta
- Department of Pharmacology, KIET School of Pharmacy, Ghaziabad-250005, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Anchal Garg
- Department of Pharmacology, KIET School of Pharmacy, Ghaziabad-250005, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Ritu Tomar
- School of Pharmaceutical and Population Health Informatics, DIT University, Dehradun-248009, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Mandeep Kumar Arora
- School of Pharmaceutical and Population Health Informatics, DIT University, Dehradun-248009, Uttarakhand, India
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9
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ROS as Regulators of Cellular Processes in Melanoma. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2021; 2021:1208690. [PMID: 34725562 PMCID: PMC8557056 DOI: 10.1155/2021/1208690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
In this review, we examine the multiple roles of ROS in the pathogenesis of melanoma, focusing on signal transduction and regulation of gene expression. In recent years, different studies have analyzed the dual role of ROS in regulating the redox system, with both negative and positive consequences on human health, depending on cell concentration of these agents. High ROS levels can result from an altered balance between oxidant generation and intracellular antioxidant activity and can produce harmful effects. In contrast, low amounts of ROS are considered beneficial, since they trigger signaling pathways involved in physiological activities and programmed cell death, with protective effects against melanoma. Here, we examine these beneficial roles, which could have interesting implications in melanoma treatment.
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10
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Jiménez-Uribe AP, Gómez-Sierra T, Aparicio-Trejo OE, Orozco-Ibarra M, Pedraza-Chaverri J. Backstage players of fibrosis: NOX4, mTOR, HDAC, and S1P; companions of TGF-β. Cell Signal 2021; 87:110123. [PMID: 34438016 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2021.110123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Revised: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The fibrotic process could be easily defined as a pathological excess of extracellular matrix deposition, leading to disruption of tissue architecture and eventually loss of function; however, this process involves a complex network of several signal transduction pathways. Virtually almost all organs could be affected by fibrosis, the most affected are the liver, lung, skin, kidney, heart, and eyes; in all of them, the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) has a central role. The canonical and non-canonical signal pathways of TGF-β impact the fibrotic process at the cellular and molecular levels, inducing the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and the induction of profibrotic gene expression with the consequent increase in proteins such as alpha-smooth actin (α-SMA), fibronectin, collagen, and other extracellular matrix proteins. Recently, it has been reported that some molecules that have not been typically associated with the fibrotic process, such as nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase 4 (NOX4), mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), histone deacetylases (HDAC), and sphingosine-1 phosphate (S1P); are critical in its development. In this review, we describe and discuss the role of these new players of fibrosis and the convergence with TGF-β signaling pathways, unveiling new insights into the panorama of fibrosis that could be useful for future therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tania Gómez-Sierra
- Facultad de Química, Departamento de Biología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, CDMX 04510, Mexico
| | - Omar Emiliano Aparicio-Trejo
- Departamento de Fisiopatología Cardio-Renal, Instituto Nacional de Cardiología "Ignacio Chávez", Mexico City 14080, Mexico
| | - Marisol Orozco-Ibarra
- Laboratorio de Neurobiología Molecular y Celular, Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía, Manuel Velasco Suárez, Av. Insurgentes Sur # 3877, La Fama, Alcaldía Tlalpan, CP 14269 Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - José Pedraza-Chaverri
- Facultad de Química, Departamento de Biología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, CDMX 04510, Mexico.
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Wishart TFL, Flokis M, Shu DY, Das SJ, Lovicu FJ. Hallmarks of lens aging and cataractogenesis. Exp Eye Res 2021; 210:108709. [PMID: 34339681 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2021.108709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Revised: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Lens homeostasis and transparency are dependent on the function and intercellular communication of its epithelia. While the lens epithelium is uniquely equipped with functional repair systems to withstand reactive oxygen species (ROS)-mediated oxidative insult, ROS are not necessarily detrimental to lens cells. Lens aging, and the onset of pathogenesis leading to cataract share an underlying theme; a progressive breakdown of oxidative stress repair systems driving a pro-oxidant shift in the intracellular environment, with cumulative ROS-induced damage to lens cell biomolecules leading to cellular dysfunction and pathology. Here we provide an overview of our current understanding of the sources and essential functions of lens ROS, antioxidative defenses, and changes in the major regulatory systems that serve to maintain the finely tuned balance of oxidative signaling vs. oxidative stress in lens cells. Age-related breakdown of these redox homeostasis systems in the lens leads to the onset of cataractogenesis. We propose eight candidate hallmarks that represent common denominators of aging and cataractogenesis in the mammalian lens: oxidative stress, altered cell signaling, loss of proteostasis, mitochondrial dysfunction, dysregulated ion homeostasis, cell senescence, genomic instability and intrinsic apoptotic cell death.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mary Flokis
- School of Medical Sciences, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Daisy Y Shu
- School of Medical Sciences, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia; Save Sight Institute, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia; Schepens Eye Research Institute of Mass Eye and Ear. Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Shannon J Das
- School of Medical Sciences, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Frank J Lovicu
- School of Medical Sciences, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia; Save Sight Institute, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia.
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H. sinensis mycelium inhibits epithelial-mesenchymal transition by inactivating the midkine pathway in pulmonary fibrosis. Front Med 2021; 15:313-329. [PMID: 33908025 DOI: 10.1007/s11684-020-0737-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2019] [Accepted: 11/27/2019] [Indexed: 09/29/2022]
Abstract
The medical fungus Hirsutella sinensis has been used as a Chinese folk health supplement because of its immunomodulatory properties. Our previous studies established the antifibrotic action of Hirsutella sinensis mycelium (HSM) in the lung. The epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is involved in the pathogenesis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. The present study investigates the role of HSM in mediating EMT during the development of pulmonary fibrosis. HSM significantly inhibits bleomycin (BLM)-induced pulmonary fibrosis by blocking the EMT. In addition, the expression levels of midkine are increased in the lungs of the BLM-induced group. Further analysis of the results indicates that the mRNA level of midkine correlated positively with EMT. HSM markedly abrogates the transforming growth factor β-induced EMT-like phenotype and behavior in vitro. The activation of midkine related signaling pathway is ameliorated following HSM treatment, whereas this extract also caused an effective attenuation of the induction of EMT (caused by midkine overexpression) in vitro. Results further confirm that oral medication of HSM disrupted the midkine pathway in vivo. Overall, findings suggest that the midkine pathway and the regulation of the EMT may be considered novel candidate therapeutic targets for the antifibrotic effects caused by HSM.
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Zhou L, Shi DP, Chu WJ, Yang LL, Xu HF. LRG1 promotes epithelial-mesenchymal transition of retinal pigment epithelium cells by activating NOX4. Int J Ophthalmol 2021; 14:349-355. [PMID: 33747808 DOI: 10.18240/ijo.2021.03.03] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Accepted: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM To investigate the effect of leucine-rich-alpha-2-glycoprotein 1 (LRG1) on epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells, and to explore the role of NADPH oxidase 4 (NOX4). METHODS RPE cells (ARPE-19 cell line) were treated with transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) to induce EMT. Changes of the mRNA and protein expression levels of LRG1 were tested in the TGF-β1 treated cells. The recombinant human LRG1 protein (rLRG1) and siRNA of LRG1 were used to establish accumulation of exogenous LRG1 model and the down-regulation of LRG1 model in ARPE-19 cells respectively, and to detect EMT-related markers including fibronectin, α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1). The mRNA and protein expression level of NOX4 were measured according to the above treatments. VAS2870 was used as a NOX4 inhibitor in rLRG1-treated cells. EMT-related markers were detected to verify the effect of NOX4 in the process of EMT. RESULTS TGF-β1 promoted the expression of LRG1 at both the mRNA and protein levels during the process of EMT which showed the up-regulation of fibronectin and α-SMA, as well as the down-regulation of ZO-1. Furthermore, the rLRG1 promoted EMT of ARPE-19 cells, which manifested high levels of fibronectin and α-SMA and low level of ZO-1, whereas knockdown of LRG1 prevented EMT by decreasing the expressions of fibronectin and α-SMA and increasing the expression of ZO-1 in ARPE-19 cells. Besides, the rLRG1 activated and LRG1 siRNA suppressed NOX4 expression. EMT was inhibited when VAS2870 was used in the rLRG1-treated cells. CONCLUSION These results for the first time demonstrate that LRG1 promotes EMT of RPE cells by activating NOX4, which may provide a novel direction to explore the mechanisms of subretinal fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Zhou
- Medical College, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, Shandong Province, China.,State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao 266071, Shandong Province, China
| | - De-Peng Shi
- Qingdao Eye Hospital, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao 266071, Shandong Province, China
| | - Wen-Juan Chu
- Qingdao Eye Hospital, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao 266071, Shandong Province, China
| | - Ling-Ling Yang
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao 266071, Shandong Province, China
| | - Hai-Feng Xu
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao 266071, Shandong Province, China.,Qingdao Eye Hospital, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao 266071, Shandong Province, China
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14
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Li H, Peng C, Zhu C, Nie S, Qian X, Shi Z, Shi M, Liang Y, Ding X, Zhang S, Zhang B, Li X, Xu G, Lv Y, Wang L, Friess H, Kong B, Zou X, Shen S. Hypoxia promotes the metastasis of pancreatic cancer through regulating NOX4/KDM5A-mediated histone methylation modification changes in a HIF1A-independent manner. Clin Epigenetics 2021; 13:18. [PMID: 33499904 PMCID: PMC7836598 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-021-01016-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Hypoxia is a characteristic of the tumor microenvironments within pancreatic cancer (PC), which has been linked to its malignancy. Recently, hypoxia has been reported to regulate the activity of important carcinogenic pathways by changing the status of histone modification. NOX4, a member of NADPH oxidase (NOX), has been found to be activated by hypoxia and promote cancer progression in several cancers. But whether it is involved in the epigenetic changes of tumor cells induced by hypoxia is still unclear, and its biological roles in PC also need to be explored. Methods A hypoxic-related gene signature and its associated pathways in PC were identified by analyzing the pancreatic cancer gene expression data from GEO and TCGA database. Candidate downstream gene (NOX4), responding to hypoxia, was validated by RT-PCR and western blot. Then, we evaluated the relationship between NOX4 expression and clinicopathologic parameters in 56 PC patients from our center. In vitro and in vivo assays were preformed to explore the phenotype of NOX4 in PC. Immunofluorescence, western blot and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays were further applied to search for a detailed mechanism. Results We quantified hypoxia and developed a hypoxia signature, which was associated with worse prognosis and elevated malignant potential in PC. Furthermore, we found that NADPH oxidase 4 (NOX4), which was induced by hypoxia and upregulated in PC in a HIF1A-independent manner, caused inactivation of lysine demethylase 5A (KDM5A), increased the methylation modification of histone H3 and regulated the transcription of EMT-associated gene_ snail family transcriptional repressor 1 (SNAIL1). This served to promote the invasion and metastasis of PC. NOX4 deficiency repressed hypoxia-induced EMT, reduced expression of H3K4ME3 and impaired the invasion and metastasis of PC cells; however, knockdown of KDM5A reversed the poor expression of H3KEME3 induced by NOX4 deficiency, thereby promoting EMT. Conclusions This study highlights the prognostic role of hypoxia-related genes in PC and strong correlation with EMT pathway. Our results also creatively discovered that NOX4 was an essential mediator for hypoxia-induced histone methylation modification and EMT in PC cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongzhen Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, No. 321 Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chunyan Peng
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, No. 321 Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chenhui Zhu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Shuang Nie
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, No. 321 Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xuetian Qian
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhao Shi
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Mengyue Shi
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, No. 321 Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yan Liang
- Department of Pathology, East Region Military Command General Hospital, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiwei Ding
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, No. 321 Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, China
| | - Shu Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, No. 321 Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, China
| | - Bin Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, No. 321 Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xihan Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, No. 321 Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, China
| | - Guifang Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, No. 321 Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ying Lv
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, No. 321 Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, China
| | - Lei Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, No. 321 Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, China
| | - Helmut Friess
- Department of Surgery, Klinikum Rechts Der Isar, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany
| | - Bo Kong
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, No. 321 Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, China.,Department of Surgery, Klinikum Rechts Der Isar, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany
| | - Xiaoping Zou
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, No. 321 Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, China. .,Department of Gastroenterology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Shanshan Shen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, No. 321 Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, China.
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15
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Wormstone IM, Wormstone YM, Smith AJO, Eldred JA. Posterior capsule opacification: What's in the bag? Prog Retin Eye Res 2020; 82:100905. [PMID: 32977000 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2020.100905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2020] [Revised: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Cataract, a clouding of the lens, is the most common cause of blindness in the world. It has a marked impact on the wellbeing and productivity of individuals and has a major economic impact on healthcare providers. The only means of treating cataract is by surgical intervention. A modern cataract operation generates a capsular bag, which comprises a proportion of the anterior capsule and the entire posterior capsule. The bag remains in situ, partitions the aqueous and vitreous humours, and in the majority of cases, houses an intraocular lens (IOL). The production of a capsular bag following surgery permits a free passage of light along the visual axis through the transparent intraocular lens and thin acellular posterior capsule. Lens epithelial cells, however, remain attached to the anterior capsule, and in response to surgical trauma initiate a wound-healing response that ultimately leads to light scatter and a reduction in visual quality known as posterior capsule opacification (PCO). There are two commonly-described forms of PCO: fibrotic and regenerative. Fibrotic PCO follows classically defined fibrotic processes, namely hyperproliferation, matrix contraction, matrix deposition and epithelial cell trans-differentiation to a myofibroblast phenotype. Regenerative PCO is defined by lens fibre cell differentiation events that give rise to Soemmerring's ring and Elschnig's pearls and becomes evident at a later stage than the fibrotic form. Both fibrotic and regenerative forms of PCO contribute to a reduction in visual quality in patients. This review will highlight the wealth of tools available for PCO research, provide insight into our current knowledge of PCO and discuss putative management of PCO from IOL design to pharmacological interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- I M Wormstone
- School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK.
| | - Y M Wormstone
- School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
| | - A J O Smith
- School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
| | - J A Eldred
- School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
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16
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Hahner F, Moll F, Schröder K. NADPH oxidases in the differentiation of endothelial cells. Cardiovasc Res 2020; 116:262-268. [PMID: 31393561 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvz213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2019] [Revised: 05/10/2019] [Accepted: 08/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The differentiation of stem cells into endothelial cells involves the modulation of highly interconnected metabolic and epigenetic processes. Therefore, the differentiation of endothelial cells is a tightly controlled process, which is adjusted at multiple levels, meaning that even the smallest variation can result in major consequences. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) represent a group of second messengers that can interfere with both metabolic and epigenetic processes. Besides their generation by mitochondria, ROS are produced in a controlled manner by the family of NADPH oxidases. The different members of the NADPH oxidase family produce superoxide anions or hydrogen peroxide. Due to the specific sub-cellular localization of the different NADPH oxidases, ROS are produced at diverse sites in the cell, such as the plasma membrane or the endoplasmic reticulum. Once produced, ROS interfere with proteins, lipids, and DNA to modulate intracellular signal cascades. Accordingly, ROS represent a group of readily available and specifically localized modulators of the highly sophisticated signalling network that eventually leads to the differentiation of stem cells into endothelial cells. This review focuses on the role of NADPH oxidases in the differentiation of stem cells into endothelial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabian Hahner
- Institute for Cardiovascular Physiology, Goethe-University, Theodor-Stern Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Franziska Moll
- Institute for Cardiovascular Physiology, Goethe-University, Theodor-Stern Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Katrin Schröder
- Institute for Cardiovascular Physiology, Goethe-University, Theodor-Stern Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt, Germany
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17
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NOX2 Is Critical to Endocardial to Mesenchymal Transition and Heart Development. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2020; 2020:1679045. [PMID: 32655758 PMCID: PMC7320281 DOI: 10.1155/2020/1679045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2020] [Revised: 04/19/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
NADPH oxidases (NOX) are a major source of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in the heart. ROS signaling regulates gene expression, cell proliferation, apoptosis, and migration. However, the role of NOX2 in embryonic heart development remains elusive. We hypothesized that deficiency of Nox2 disrupts endocardial to mesenchymal transition (EndMT) and results in congenital septal and valvular defects. Our data show that 34% of Nox2−/− neonatal mice had various congenital heart defects (CHDs) including atrial septal defects (ASD), ventricular septal defects (VSD), atrioventricular canal defects (AVCD), and malformation of atrioventricular and aortic valves. Notably, Nox2−/− embryonic hearts show abnormal development of the endocardial cushion as evidenced by decreased cell proliferation and an increased rate of apoptosis. Additionally, Nox2 deficiency disrupted EndMT of atrioventricular cushion explants ex vivo. Furthermore, treatment with N-acetylcysteine (NAC) to reduce ROS levels in the wild-type endocardial cushion explants decreased the number of cells undergoing EndMT. Importantly, deficiency of Nox2 was associated with reduced expression of Gata4, Tgfβ2, Bmp2, Bmp4, and Snail1, which are critical to endocardial cushion and valvoseptal development. We conclude that NOX2 is critical to EndMT, endocardial cushion cell proliferation, and normal embryonic heart development.
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18
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Wang X, Wang B, Zhao N, Wang C, Huang M, Chen B, Chen J, Sun Y, Xiong L, Huang S, Liu Y. Pharmacological Targeting of BET Bromodomains Inhibits Lens Fibrosis via Downregulation of MYC Expression. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2020; 60:4748-4758. [PMID: 31731295 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.19-27596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Lens fibrosis involves aberrant growth, migration, and transforming growth factorβ (TGFβ)-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of lens epithelial cells (LECs). In this study, we investigated the role of the bromo- and extra-terminal domain (BET) inhibitor in lens fibrotic disorder to identify drug-based therapies. Methods Rat lens explants, rabbit primary lens epithelial cells (rLECs), human lens explants and human SRA01/04 cells were treated with TGFβ2 in the presence or absence of the BET bromodomain inhibitor JQ1 or the MYC inhibitor 10058-F4. Proliferation was determined by MTS assay. Cell migration was measured by wound healing and transwell assays. The expression levels of fibronectin (FN), α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), E-cadherin, and phosphorylated downstream Smads were analyzed by Western blot, qRT-PCR, and immunocytochemical experiments. Transcriptome analysis was conducted to explore the molecular mechanism. Results Blockage of BET bromodomains with JQ1 significantly suppressed rLECs proliferation by inducing G1 cell cycle arrest. Furthermore, JQ1 attenuated TGFβ2-dependent upregulation of mesenchymal gene expression and phosphorylation of Smad2/3 during the progression of EMT, whereas E-cadherin expression was preserved. JQ1 repressed MYC expression, which was dose- and time-dependently upregulated by TGFβ2. Inhibiting MYC with either the small-molecule inhibitor 10058-F4 or genetic knockdown phenocopied the effects of JQ1 treatment. MYC overexpression partially reversed the JQ1-regulated EMT-related alteration of gene expression. Both JQ1 and 10058-F4 blocked the expression of TGFβ receptor II and integrin αv in rLECs and abolished TGFβ2-induced opacification and subcapsular plaque formation in rat lens explants. Conclusions Our results demonstrate the antifibrotic role of JQ1 in maintaining the epithelial characteristics of LECs and blocking TGFβ2-induced EMT, possibly by downregulating MYC, thereby providing new avenues for treating lens fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoran Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bowen Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Na Zhao
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States
| | - Chenjie Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Mi Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Baoxin Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jieping Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yan Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lang Xiong
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shan Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yizhi Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
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Das SJ, Wishart TFL, Jandeleit-Dahm K, Lovicu FJ. Nox4-mediated ROS production is involved, but not essential for TGFβ-induced lens EMT leading to cataract. Exp Eye Res 2020; 192:107918. [PMID: 31926131 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2020.107918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2019] [Revised: 12/02/2019] [Accepted: 01/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
The reactive oxygen species (ROS) producing enzyme, NADPH oxidase 4 (Nox4), is upregulated in response to TGFβ in lens epithelial cells in vitro, and its selective inhibition was shown to block aspects of TGFβ-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). In the present in situ study we validate the role(s) of Nox4 in TGFβ-induced lens EMT leading to anterior subcapsular cataract (ASC) formation. Mice overexpressing TGFβ in the lens, that develop ASC, were crossed to Nox4-deficient mice. When comparing mice overexpressing TGFβ in lens, to mice that were also deficient for Nox4, we see the delayed onset of cataract, along with a delay in EMT protein markers normally associated with TGFβ-induced fibrotic cataracts. In the absence of Nox4, we also see elevated levels of ERK1/2 activity that was shown to be required for TGFβ/Smad2/3-signaling. qRT-PCR revealed upregulation of Nox2 and its regulatory subunit in TGFβ-overexpressing lens epithelial cells devoid of Nox4. Taken together, these findings provide an improved platform to delineate putative Nox4 (and ROS) interactions with Smad2/3 and/or ERK1/2, in particular in the development of fibrotic diseases, such as specific forms of cataract.
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Affiliation(s)
- S J Das
- Discipline of Anatomy and Histology, Bosch Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - T F L Wishart
- Discipline of Anatomy and Histology, Bosch Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - K Jandeleit-Dahm
- Department of Diabetes, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - F J Lovicu
- Discipline of Anatomy and Histology, Bosch Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Discipline of Clinical Ophthalmology & Eye Health, Save Sight Institute, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
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TGF- β3 Induces Autophagic Activity by Increasing ROS Generation in a NOX4-Dependent Pathway. Mediators Inflamm 2019; 2019:3153240. [PMID: 32082074 PMCID: PMC7012255 DOI: 10.1155/2019/3153240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2019] [Revised: 10/24/2019] [Accepted: 12/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Higher concentrations of reactive oxygen species (ROS) have been associated with epithelial cell damage, cell shedding, and airway hyperresponsiveness. Previous studies have indicated that transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) mediates ROS production and NADPH oxidase (NOX) activity. In our previous study, we also observed that TGF-β3 increases mucus secretion in airway epithelial cells in an autophagy-dependent fashion. Although it is well known that the relationship between ROS and autophagy is cell context-dependent, the exact mechanism of action remains unclear. The following study examined whether ROS act as upstream of autophagy activation in response to TGF-β3 induction. Using an allergic inflammation mouse model induced by house dust mite (HDM), we observed elevated lung amounts of TGF-β3 accompanied by increased ROS levels. And we found that ROS levels were elevated and NOX4 expression was increased in TGF-β3-induced epithelial cells, while the lack of NOX4 in the epithelial cells could reduce ROS generation and autophagy-dependent MUC5AC expression treated with TGF-β3. Furthermore, our studies demonstrated that the Smad2/3 pathway was involved in TGF-β3-induced ROS generation by promoting NOX4 expression. The inhibition of ROS generation by N-Acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) resulted in a decrease in mucus expression and autophagy activity in vivo as well as in vitro. Finally, TGF-β3-neutralizing antibody significantly reduced the ROS generation, mucus expression, and autophagy activity and also decreased the phosphorylation of Smad2 and Smad3. Taken together, the obtained results revealed that persistent TGF-β3 activation increased ROS levels in a NOX4-dependent pathway and subsequently induced autophagy as well as MUC5AC expression in the epithelial cells.
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21
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Das S, Wikström P, Walum E, Lovicu FJ. A novel NADPH oxidase inhibitor targeting Nox4 in TGFβ-induced lens epithelial to mesenchymal transition. Exp Eye Res 2019; 185:107692. [DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2019.107692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2019] [Revised: 05/08/2019] [Accepted: 06/08/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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22
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Risk factors for the occurrence of visual-threatening posterior capsule opacification. J Transl Med 2019; 17:209. [PMID: 31221170 PMCID: PMC6585115 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-019-1956-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2019] [Accepted: 06/13/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background To evaluate the potential risk factor of visual-threatening posterior capsule opacification (PCO) via the analysis of National Health Insurance Research Database in Taiwan. Patients and methods A total of 8571 patients (3767 male and 4804 female) were recruited in the study group and 17,142 patients (7534 male and 9608 female) in the control group. Patients undergoing cataract surgery, acrysof single-piece intraocular lens implantation and Nd:YAG capsulotomy were selected as the study group. After exclusion which aimed to standardize the ocular condition and exclude the possibility that patients undergoing cataract surgery and Nd:YAG capsulotomy in different eyes, each patient in the study group was age-gender matched to two patients undergoing cataract surgery but without Nd:YAG capsulotomy. The demographic data, systemic disease, and ocular co-morbidities were obtained and analyzed. Adjusted odds ratio (OR) of each demographic data and co-morbidities to the development of visual-threatening PCO, and adjusted OR of co-morbidities to visual-threatening PCO develop within 1 year postoperatively. Results The dry eye disease (DED), glaucoma, uveitis, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), hyperlipidemia, peptic ulcer disease and liver disease showed significant crude OR while the DED, glaucoma, AMD, hyperlipidemia and peptic ulcer disease revealed a significant adjusted OR. In the subgroup analysis, the DED, glaucoma, AMD, and hyperlipidemia still illustrated a higher adjusted OR to develop visual-threatening PCO within 1 year after the cataract surgery. Conclusion The DED, glaucoma, AMD, hyperlipidemia and peptic ulcer disease may serve as the risk factor for the developing of visual-threatening PCO.
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23
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Tang CT, Gao YJ, Ge ZZ. NOX4, a new genetic target for anti-cancer therapy in digestive system cancer. J Dig Dis 2018; 19:578-585. [PMID: 30058122 DOI: 10.1111/1751-2980.12651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2018] [Revised: 07/19/2018] [Accepted: 07/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Oxidative stress has been implicated as an important factor in tumorigenesis and tumor progression. The nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase subunit 4 (NOX4), a substrate of NADPH that can generate H2 O2 reactive oxygen species, has been reported to be highly expressed in gastrointestinal tumors. In this review we summarize the available evidence on the biological function of NOX4 in digestive system tumors by focusing on its correlation with classical cell signaling pathways, including VEGF, MAPK and PI3K/AKT, and with biochemical mediators, such as nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB), activator protein (AP)-1 and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β. According to the clinical and database studies on tumors of the digestive system, such as colorectal, gastric and pancreatic cancer, there are significant associations between NOX4 expression and tumor prognosis as well as patient's survival. Animal studies using NOX4 inhibitors such as diphenylene iodonium and GKT137831, which selectively block NOX4, indicate their potential as therapeutic agents for targeting cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Tao Tang
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ministry of Health, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, Shanghai, China
| | - Yun Jie Gao
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ministry of Health, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhi Zheng Ge
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ministry of Health, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, Shanghai, China
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Han WQ, Xu L, Tang XF, Chen WD, Wu YJ, Gao PJ. Membrane rafts-redox signalling pathway contributes to renal fibrosis via modulation of the renal tubular epithelial-mesenchymal transition. J Physiol 2018; 596:3603-3616. [PMID: 29863758 DOI: 10.1113/jp275952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2018] [Accepted: 05/25/2018] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
KEY POINTS Membrane rafts (MRs)-redox signalling pathway is activated in response to transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) stimulation in renal tubular cells. This pathway contributes to TGF-1β-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in renal tubular cells. The the MRs-redox signalling pathway is activated in renal tubular cells isolated from angiotensin II (AngII)-induced hypertensive rats. Inhibition of this pathway attenuated renal inflammation and fibrosis in AngII-induced hypertension. ABSTRACT The membrane rafts (MRs)-redox pathway is characterized by NADPH oxidase subunit clustering and activation through lysosome fusion, V-type proton ATPase subunit E2 (encoded by the Atp6v1e2 gene) translocation and sphingomyelin phosphodiesterase 1 (SMPD1, encoded by the SMPD1 gene) activation. In the present study, we hypothesized that the MRs-redox-derived reactive oxygen species (ROS) are involved in renal inflammation and fibrosis by promoting renal tubular epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Results show that transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) acutely induced MR formation and ROS production in NRK-52E cells, a rat renal tubular cell line. In addition, transfection of Atp6v1e2 small hairpin RNAs (shRNA) and SMPD1 shRNA attenuated TGF-β1-induced changes in EMT markers, including E-cadherin, α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and fibroblast-specific protein-1 (FSP-1) in NRK-52E cells. Moreover, Erk1/2 activation may be a downstream regulator of the MRs-redox-derived ROS, because both shRNAs significantly inhibited TGF-β1-induced Erk1/2 phosphorylation. Further in vivo study shows that the renal tubular the MRs-redox signalling pathway was activated in angiotensin II (AngII)-induced hypertension, as indicated by the increased NADPH oxidase subunit Nox4 fraction in the MR domain, SMPD1 activation and increased ROS content in isolated renal tubular cells. Finally, renal transfection of Atp6v1e2 shRNA and SMPD1 shRNA significantly prevented renal fibrosis and inflammation, as indicated by the decrease of α-SMA, fibronectin, collagen I, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), intercellular cell adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) and tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in kidneys from AngII-infused rats. It was concluded that the the MRs-redox signalling pathway is involved in TGF-β1-induced renal tubular EMT and renal inflammation/fibrosis in AngII-induced hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Qing Han
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hypertension, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Laboratory of Vascular Biology, Institute of Health Sciences, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Institute of Hypertension, Shanghai, China
| | - Lian Xu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hypertension, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Laboratory of Vascular Biology, Institute of Health Sciences, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiao-Feng Tang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hypertension, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Institute of Hypertension, Shanghai, China
| | - Wen-Dong Chen
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hypertension, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Institute of Hypertension, Shanghai, China
| | - Yong-Jie Wu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hypertension, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Institute of Hypertension, Shanghai, China
| | - Ping-Jin Gao
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hypertension, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Laboratory of Vascular Biology, Institute of Health Sciences, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Institute of Hypertension, Shanghai, China
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Wojciechowski MC, Shu DY, Lovicu FJ. ERK1/2-Dependent Gene Expression Contributing to TGFβ-Induced Lens EMT. Curr Eye Res 2018; 43:986-997. [PMID: 29652528 DOI: 10.1080/02713683.2018.1464193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aims to highlight some of the genes that are differentially regulated by ERK1/2 signaling in TGFβ-induced EMT in lens, and their potential contribution to this pathological process. MATERIALS AND METHODS Rat lens epithelial explants were cultured with or without TGFβ over a 3-day-culture period to induce EMT, in the presence or absence of UO126 (ERK1/2 signaling inhibitor), both prior to TGFβ-treatment, or 24 or 48 hours after TGFβ treatment. Smad2/3-nuclear immunolabeling was used to indicate active TGFβ signaling, and quantitative RT-PCR was used to analyze changes in the different treatment groups in expression of the following representative genes: TGFβ signaling (Smad7, Smurf1, and Rnf111), epithelial markers (Pax6, Cdh1, Zeb1, and Zeb2), cell survival/death regulators (Bcl2, Bax, and Bad) and lens mesenchymal markers (Mmp9, Fn1, and Col1a1), over the 3 days of culture. RESULTS ERK1/2 was found to regulate the expression of Smurf1, Smad7, Rnf11, Cdh1, Pax6, Zeb1, Bcl2, Bax, and Bad genes in lens cells. TGFβ signaling was evident by nuclear localization of Smad2/3 and this was effectively blocked by pre-treatment with UO126, but not by post-treatment with this ERK1/2 signaling inhibitor. TGFβ induced the expression of its signaling partners (Smad7, Smurf1, and Rnf111), as well as lens mesenchymal genes (Mmp9, Fn1, and Col1a1), consistent with its role in inducing an EMT. These TGFβ-responsive signaling genes, as well as the mesenchymal markers, were all positively regulated by ERK1/2-activity. The expression levels of the lens epithelial genes we examined, and genes that were associated with cell death/survival, were not directly impacted by TGFβ. CONCLUSIONS TGFβ-mediated ERK1/2 signaling positively modulates the expression of mesenchymal genes in lens epithelial explants undergoing EMT, in addition to regulating TGFβ-mediated regulatory genes. Independent of TGFβ, ERK1/2 activity can also regulate the expression of endogenous lens epithelial genes, highlighting its potential key role in regulation of both normal and pathological lens cellular processes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Daisy Y Shu
- a Discipline of Anatomy and Histology , Bosch Institute, University of Sydney , Sydney , Australia.,b Save Sight Institute , University of Sydney , Sydney , Australia
| | - Frank J Lovicu
- a Discipline of Anatomy and Histology , Bosch Institute, University of Sydney , Sydney , Australia.,b Save Sight Institute , University of Sydney , Sydney , Australia
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Yang J, Li J, Wang Q, Xing Y, Tan Z, Kang Q. Novel NADPH oxidase inhibitor VAS2870 suppresses TGF‑β‑dependent epithelial‑to‑mesenchymal transition in retinal pigment epithelial cells. Int J Mol Med 2018; 42:123-130. [PMID: 29620174 PMCID: PMC5979836 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2018.3612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2017] [Accepted: 03/27/2018] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
NADPH oxidases (NOXs) are important in the pathophysiology of fibrotic diseases. The expression and activity of NOXs are regulated by growth factors, including transforming growth factor (TGF-β). The proliferation of retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells following epithelial- to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a major pathological change involved in proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR). The aim of the present study was to determine the effects of the novel NOX inhibitor VAS2870 on the TGF-β-dependent expression of NOX4 and associated cellular events in RPE cells. Cell viability was examined using a Cell Counting Kit-8 assay and cell cycle progression was detected by flow cytometric analysis. Immunofluorescence analysis and western blot analysis were performed to assess EMT. It was found that TGF-β increased the expression of NOX4 and that pre-incubation with VAS2870 eliminated this effect. Additionally, TGF-β promoted RPE migration and increased EMT. Pre-incubation with VAS2870 significantly prevented TGF-β2-induced EMT by decreasing the levels of α-smooth muscle actin and E-cadherin, and also inhibited the migratory ability of the RPE cells, as demonstrated by scratch assays. Finally, VAS2870 suppressed the proliferation of RPE cells, and led to G1-phase cell cycle arrest and a significant downregulation of the expression of cyclin D1. In conclusion, the pharmacological inhibition of NOX may be a promising tool for the treatment of PVR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Medical School of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, P.R. China
| | - Jing Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shaanxi Provincial People's Hospital, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710068, P.R. China
| | - Qun Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Medical School of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, P.R. China
| | - Yao Xing
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Medical School of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, P.R. China
| | - Zizhu Tan
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Medical School of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, P.R. China
| | - Qianyan Kang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Medical School of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, P.R. China
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Shu DY, Lovicu FJ. Myofibroblast transdifferentiation: The dark force in ocular wound healing and fibrosis. Prog Retin Eye Res 2017; 60:44-65. [PMID: 28807717 PMCID: PMC5600870 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2017.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 236] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2017] [Revised: 08/08/2017] [Accepted: 08/09/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Wound healing is one of the most complex biological processes to occur in life. Repair of tissue following injury involves dynamic interactions between multiple cell types, growth factors, inflammatory mediators and components of the extracellular matrix (ECM). Aberrant and uncontrolled wound healing leads to a non-functional mass of fibrotic tissue. In the eye, fibrotic disease disrupts the normally transparent ocular tissues resulting in irreversible loss of vision. A common feature in fibrotic eye disease is the transdifferentiation of cells into myofibroblasts that can occur through a process known as epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Myofibroblasts rapidly produce excessive amounts of ECM and exert tractional forces across the ECM, resulting in the distortion of tissue architecture. Transforming growth factor-beta (TGFβ) plays a major role in myofibroblast transdifferentiation and has been implicated in numerous fibrotic eye diseases including corneal opacification, pterygium, anterior subcapsular cataract, posterior capsular opacification, proliferative vitreoretinopathy, fibrovascular membrane formation associated with proliferative diabetic retinopathy, submacular fibrosis, glaucoma and orbital fibrosis. This review serves to introduce the pathological functions of the myofibroblast in fibrotic eye disease. We also highlight recent developments in elucidating the multiple signaling pathways involved in fibrogenesis that may be exploited in the development of novel anti-fibrotic therapies to reduce ocular morbidity due to scarring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daisy Y Shu
- Discipline of Anatomy and Histology, Bosch Institute, University of Sydney, NSW, Australia; Save Sight Institute, University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Frank J Lovicu
- Discipline of Anatomy and Histology, Bosch Institute, University of Sydney, NSW, Australia; Save Sight Institute, University of Sydney, NSW, Australia.
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