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Wang Y, Geng X, Guo Z, Chu D, Liu R, Cheng B, Cui H, Li C, Li J, Li Z. M2 macrophages promote subconjunctival fibrosis through YAP/TAZ signalling. Ann Med 2024; 56:2313680. [PMID: 38335557 PMCID: PMC10860428 DOI: 10.1080/07853890.2024.2313680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the role of M2 macrophages in subconjunctival fibrosis after silicone implantation (SI) and investigate the underlying mechanisms. MATERIALS AND METHODS A model of subconjunctival fibrosis was established by SI surgery in rabbit eyes. M2 distribution and collagen deposition were evaluated by histopathology. The effects of M2 cells on the migration (using wound-scratch assay) and activation (by immunofluorescence and western blotting) of human Tenon's fibroblasts (HTFs) were investigated. RESULTS There were more M2 macrophages (CD68+/CD206+ cells) occurring in tissue samples around silicone implant at 2 weeks postoperatively. Dense collagen deposition was observed at 8 weeks after SI. In vitro experiment showed M2 expressed high level of CD206 and transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1). The M2-conditioned medium promoted HTFs migration and the synthesis of collagen I and fibronectin. Meanwhile, M2-conditioned medium increased the protein levels of TGF-β1, TGF-βR II, p-Smad2/3, yes-associated protein (YAP), and transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ). Verteporfin, a YAP inhibitor, suppressedTGF-β1/Smad2/3-YAP/TAZ pathway and attenuated M2-induced extracellular matrix deposition by HTFs. CONCLUSIONS TGF-β1/Smad2/3-YAP/TAZ signalling may be involved in M2-induced fibrotic activities in HTFs. M2 plays a key role in promoting subconjunctival fibrosis and can serve as an attractive target for anti-fibrotic therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiwei Wang
- Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, People’s Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xingchen Geng
- Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, People’s Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Zhihua Guo
- Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, People’s Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Dandan Chu
- Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, People’s Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ruixing Liu
- Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, People’s Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Boyuan Cheng
- Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, People’s Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Haohao Cui
- Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, People’s Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Chengcheng Li
- Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, People’s Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jingguo Li
- Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, People’s Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Zhanrong Li
- Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, People’s Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
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Nong J, Shen S, Hong F, Xiao F, Meng L, Li P, Lei X, Chen YG. Verteporfin inhibits TGF-β signaling by disrupting the Smad2/3-Smad4 interaction. Mol Biol Cell 2024; 35:ar95. [PMID: 38696259 DOI: 10.1091/mbc.e24-02-0073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling plays a crucial role in pathogenesis, such as accelerating tissue fibrosis and promoting tumor development at the later stages of tumorigenesis by promoting epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), cancer cell migration, and invasion. Targeting TGF-β signaling is a promising therapeutic approach, but nonspecific inhibition may result in adverse effects. In this study, we focus on the Smad2/3-Smad4 complex, a key component in TGF-β signaling transduction, as a potential target for cancer therapy. Through a phase-separated condensate-aided biomolecular interaction system, we identified verteporfin (VP) as a small-molecule inhibitor that specifically targets the Smad2/3-Smad4 interaction. VP effectively disrupted the interaction between Smad2/3 and Smad4 and thereby inhibited canonical TGF-β signaling, but not the interaction between Smad1 and Smad4 in bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling. Furthermore, VP exhibited inhibitory effects on TGF-β-induced EMT and cell migration. Our findings indicate a novel approach to develop protein-protein interaction inhibitors of the canonical TGF-β signaling pathway for treatments of related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junxiu Nong
- The State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Shengqiang Shen
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, Department of Chemical Biology, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Fan Hong
- Guangzhou National Laboratory, Guangzhou International Bio Island, Guangzhou 510005, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Fan Xiao
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, Department of Chemical Biology, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Lingtian Meng
- The State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Pilong Li
- Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Xiaoguang Lei
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, Department of Chemical Biology, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Ye-Guang Chen
- The State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
- Guangzhou National Laboratory, Guangzhou International Bio Island, Guangzhou 510005, Guangdong Province, China
- School of Basic Medicine, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, China
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3
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Wang Y, Geng X, Sun X, Cui H, Guo Z, Chu D, Li J, Li Z. Celastrol alleviates subconjunctival fibrosis induced by silicone implants mimicking glaucoma surgery. Eur J Pharm Biopharm 2024:114352. [PMID: 38851459 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpb.2024.114352] [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: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
Subconjunctival fibrosis is critical to the outcomes of several ophthalmic conditions or procedures, such as glaucoma filtering surgery. This study aimed to investigate the anti-fibrotic effect of celastrol on subconjunctival fibrosis and to further reveal the underlying mechanisms. Given the toxicity and poor water solubility of celastrol, we fabricated celastrol-loaded nanomicelles hydrogel hybrid to attenuate subconjunctival fibrosis around silicone implant. The results in vitro demonstrated that celastrol-nanodrug suppressed TGF-β1-induced fibroblast activation and extracellular matrix deposition in human pterygium fibroblasts by inhibiting the TGF-β1/Smad2/3-YAP/TAZ signaling. Further, the results in vivo showed that the celastrol-nanodrug reduced subconjunctival fibrosis in the rabbit model of silicone implantation. These findings suggested that celastrol could serve as a promising therapy for controlling subconjunctival fibrosis. This study aimed to investigate the anti-fibrotic effect of celastrol on subconjunctival fibrosis and to further reveal the underlying mechanisms. We used celastrol-loaded nanomicelles hydrogel hybrid as a sustained-release drug. A rabbit model of subconjunctival fibrosis following silicone implantation was used for in vivo study and TGF-β1-induced human pterygium fibroblast (HPF) activation as an in vitro model. The effects of celastrol on inhibiting TGF-β1-induced migration and proliferation of HPFs were evaluated by scratch wound assay and CCK-8, respectively. Immunofluorescence and western blotting were used to examine the effect of celastrol on the expression of α-SMA, collagen I, fibronectin, and the targets of the Hippo signaling pathway. We found that in vivo celastrol treatment reduced the expression of YAP and TAZ in subconjunctival tissue. Moreover, celastrol alleviated collagen deposition and subconjunctival fibrosis at 8weeks. No obvious tissue toxicity was observed in the rabbit models. Mechanistically, celastrol significantly inhibited TGF-β1-induced proliferation and migration of HPFs. Pretreatment of HPFs with celastrol also suppressed the TGF-β1-induced protein expression of α-SMA, collagen I, fibronectin, TGF-βRII, phosphorylated Smad2/3, YAP, TAZ, and TEAD1. In conclusion, celastrol effectively prevented subconjunctival fibrosis through inhibiting TGF- β1/Smad2/3-YAP/TAZ pathway. Celastrol could serve as a promising therapy for subconjunctival fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiwei Wang
- Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450003, China
| | - Xingchen Geng
- Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450003, China
| | - Xue Sun
- Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450003, China
| | - Haohao Cui
- Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450003, China
| | - Zhihua Guo
- Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450003, China
| | - Dandan Chu
- Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450003, China
| | - Jingguo Li
- Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450003, China.
| | - Zhanrong Li
- Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450003, China.
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Zhao Y, Sun B, Fu X, Zuo Z, Qin H, Yao K. YAP in development and disease: Navigating the regulatory landscape from retina to brain. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 175:116703. [PMID: 38713948 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116703] [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: 01/17/2024] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/09/2024] Open
Abstract
The distinctive role of Yes-associated protein (YAP) in the nervous system has attracted widespread attention. This comprehensive review strategically uses the retina as a vantage point, embarking on an extensive exploration of YAP's multifaceted impact from the retina to the brain in development and pathology. Initially, we explore the crucial roles of YAP in embryonic and cerebral development. Our focus then shifts to retinal development, examining in detail YAP's regulatory influence on the development of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and retinal progenitor cells (RPCs), and its significant effects on the hierarchical structure and functionality of the retina. We also investigate the essential contributions of YAP in maintaining retinal homeostasis, highlighting its precise regulation of retinal cell proliferation and survival. In terms of retinal-related diseases, we explore the epigenetic connections and pathophysiological regulation of YAP in diabetic retinopathy (DR), glaucoma, and proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR). Lastly, we broaden our exploration from the retina to the brain, emphasizing the research paradigm of "retina: a window to the brain." Special focus is given to the emerging studies on YAP in brain disorders such as Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD), underlining its potential therapeutic value in neurodegenerative disorders and neuroinflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaqin Zhao
- Institute of Visual Neuroscience and Stem Cell Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430065, China; College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430065, China
| | - Bin Sun
- Institute of Visual Neuroscience and Stem Cell Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430065, China; College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430065, China
| | - Xuefei Fu
- Institute of Visual Neuroscience and Stem Cell Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430065, China; College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430065, China
| | - Zhuan Zuo
- Institute of Visual Neuroscience and Stem Cell Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430065, China; College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430065, China
| | - Huan Qin
- Institute of Visual Neuroscience and Stem Cell Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430065, China; College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430065, China.
| | - Kai Yao
- Institute of Visual Neuroscience and Stem Cell Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430065, China; College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430065, China.
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5
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Murakami Y, Imaizumi T, Hashizume K, Tezuka Y, Oku Y, Nishiya N, Sanbe A, Kurosaka D. Inhibition of Connective Tissue Growth Factor Expression in Adult Retinal Pigment Epithelial-19 Cells by Blocking Yes-Associated Protein/Transcriptional Coactivator with PDZ-Binding Motif Activity. J Ocul Pharmacol Ther 2024; 40:246-252. [PMID: 38517736 DOI: 10.1089/jop.2023.0141] [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] [Indexed: 03/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose: To investigate the effect of yes-associated protein (YAP) and transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ) on connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) expression in adult retinal pigment epithelial (ARPE)-19 cells. We also studied the inhibitory effect of K-975, a new pan-transcriptional enhanced associate domain (TEAD) inhibitor, and luteolin, a plant-derived flavonoid on CTGF expression. Methods: ARPE-19 cells were transfected with either YAP or TAZ overexpression plasmid or treated with transforming growth factor (TGF)-β2. The cells were cultured either with or without K-975 or luteolin. The expression of YAP, TAZ, and CTGF was examined using real-time PCR. Results: ARPE-19 cells overexpressing YAP or TAZ exhibited significantly increased CTGF expression. This increase was attenuated by K-975 or luteolin alone. TGF-β2 treatment significantly raised the expression of not just YAP and TAZ, but also CTGF in ARPE-19 cells. TGF-β2 treatment-enhanced CTGF expression was considerably lowered by the addition of K-975 or luteolin. Conclusions: Overexpression of YAP or TAZ and treatment with TGF-β2 led to an increase in the expression of CTGF in ARPE-19 cells. These increases were attenuated by treatment with K-975 and luteolin. These findings suggest that YAP and TAZ may be related to the expression of CTGF in ARPE-19 cells and that K-975 and luteolin can be explored as potential therapeutic agents for preventing CTGF production in vitreoretinal fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoko Murakami
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Iwate Medical University, 2-1-1 Idaitori, Yahaba-Cho, Shiwa-gun, Iwate, Japan
| | - Toshiyasu Imaizumi
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Iwate Medical University, 2-1-1 Idaitori, Yahaba-Cho, Shiwa-gun, Iwate, Japan
| | - Kouhei Hashizume
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Iwate Medical University, 2-1-1 Idaitori, Yahaba-Cho, Shiwa-gun, Iwate, Japan
| | - Yu Tezuka
- Department of Pharmacotherapeutics, School of Pharmacy, Iwate Medical University, Shiwa-gun, Japan
| | - Yusuke Oku
- Department of Integrated Information for Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Iwate Medical University, Shiwa-gun, Japan
| | - Naoyuki Nishiya
- Department of Integrated Information for Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Iwate Medical University, Shiwa-gun, Japan
| | - Atsushi Sanbe
- Department of Pharmacotherapeutics, School of Pharmacy, Iwate Medical University, Shiwa-gun, Japan
| | - Daijiro Kurosaka
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Iwate Medical University, 2-1-1 Idaitori, Yahaba-Cho, Shiwa-gun, Iwate, Japan
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6
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Du Y. The Hippo signalling pathway and its impact on eye diseases. J Cell Mol Med 2024; 28:e18300. [PMID: 38613348 PMCID: PMC11015399 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.18300] [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: 10/28/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The Hippo signalling pathway, an evolutionarily conserved kinase cascade, has been shown to be crucial for cell fate determination, homeostasis and tissue regeneration. Recent experimental and clinical studies have demonstrated that the Hippo signalling pathway is involved in the pathophysiology of ocular diseases. This article provides the first systematic review of studies on the regulatory and functional roles of mammalian Hippo signalling systems in eye diseases. More comprehensive studies on this pathway are required for a better understanding of the pathophysiology of eye diseases and the development of effective therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxiang Du
- Precision Medicine Laboratory for Chronic Non‐communicable Diseases of Shandong Province, Institute of Precision MedicineJining Medical UniversityJiningShandongPeople's Republic of China
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7
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Ghomlaghi M, Theocharous M, Hoang N, Shin SY, von Kriegsheim A, O’ Neill E, Zhang T, Nguyen LK. Integrative modeling and analysis of signaling crosstalk reveal molecular switches coordinating Yes-associated protein transcriptional activities. iScience 2024; 27:109031. [PMID: 38380257 PMCID: PMC10877689 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.109031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
The transcriptional co-activator YAP forms complexes with distinct transcription factors, controlling cell fate decisions, such as proliferation and apoptosis. However, the mechanisms underlying its context-dependent function are poorly defined. This study explores the interplay between the TGF-β and Hippo pathways and their influence on YAP's association with specific transcription factors. By integrating iterative mathematical modeling with experimental validation, we uncover molecular switches, predominantly controlled by RASSF1A and ITCH, which dictate the formation of YAP-SMAD (proliferative) and YAP-p73 (apoptotic) complexes. Our results show that RASSF1A enhances the formation of apoptotic complexes, whereas ITCH promotes the formation of proliferative complexes. Notably, higher levels of ITCH transform YAP-SMAD activity from a transient to a sustained state, impacting cellular behaviors. Extending these findings to various breast cancer cell lines highlights the role of cellular context in YAP regulation. Our study provides new insights into the mechanisms of YAP transcriptional activities and their therapeutic implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milad Ghomlaghi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
- Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Mandy Theocharous
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
- Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Nhan Hoang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
- Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Sung-Young Shin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
- Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Alex von Kriegsheim
- Edinburgh Cancer Research UK Centre, Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, The University of Edinburgh, Crewe Road South, Edinburgh EH4 2XR, UK
| | - Eric O’ Neill
- CRUK/MRC Institute for Radiation Oncology and Department of Oncology, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7DQ, UK
| | - Tao Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
- Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Lan K. Nguyen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
- Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
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8
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Wei L, Gao J, Wang L, Tao Q, Tu C. Hippo/YAP signaling pathway: a new therapeutic target for diabetes mellitus and vascular complications. Ther Adv Endocrinol Metab 2023; 14:20420188231220134. [PMID: 38152659 PMCID: PMC10752099 DOI: 10.1177/20420188231220134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetic angiopathy, which includes diabetic kidney disease (DKD), cardio-cerebrovascular disease, and diabetic retinopathy (DR) among other diseases, is one of the most common complications affecting diabetic patients. Among these, DKD, which is a major cause of morbidity and mortality, affects about 40% of diabetic patients. Similarly, DR involves retinal neovascularization and neurodegeneration as a result of chronic hyperglycemia and is the main cause of visual impairment and blindness. In addition, inflammation also promotes atherosclerosis and diabetes, with atherosclerosis-related cardiovascular diseases being often a main cause of disability or death in diabetic patients. Given that vascular diseases caused by diabetes negatively impact human health, it is therefore important to identify appropriate treatments. In this context, some studies have found that the Hippo/Yes-associated protein (YAP) pathway is a highly evolutionarily conserved protein kinase signal pathway that regulates organ growth and size through its effector signaling pathway Transcriptional co-Activator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ) and its YAP. YAP is a key factor in the Hippo pathway. The activation of YAP regulates gluconeogenesis, thereby regulating glucose tolerance levels; silencing the YAP gene thereby prevents the formation of glomerular fibrosis. YAP can combine with TEA domain family members to regulate the proliferation and migration of retinal vascular endothelial cells (ECs), so YAP plays a prominent role in the formation and pathology of retinal vessels. In addition, YAP/TAZ activation and translocation to the nucleus promote endothelial inflammation and monocyte-EC attachment, which can increase diabetes-induced cardiovascular atherosclerosis. Hippo/YAP signaling pathway provides a potential therapeutic target for diabetic angiopathy, which can prevent the progression of diabetes to DR and improve renal fibrosis and cardio-vascular atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lan Wei
- Department of Internal Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jingjing Gao
- Zhonglou District Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Changzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Liangzhi Wang
- Department of Internal Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Qianru Tao
- Department of Nephrology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 185 Juqian Road, Changzhou, 213000, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chao Tu
- Department of Internal Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 185 Juqian Road, Changzhou, 213000, Jiangsu, China
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9
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Xiao F, Zhu C, Wei X, Chen G, Xu X. Shenhuang plaster enhances intestinal anastomotic healing in rabbits through activation of the TGF-β and Hippo/YAP signaling pathways. J Appl Biomed 2023; 21:208-217. [PMID: 38112460 DOI: 10.32725/jab.2023.018] [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: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Although many efforts have been made to improve management strategies and diagnostic methods in the past several decades, the prevention of anastomotic complications, such as anastomotic leaks and strictures, remain a major clinical challenge. Therefore, new molecular pathways need to be identified that regulate anastomotic healing, and to design new treatments for patients after anastomosis to reduce the occurrence of complications. Rabbits were treated with a MST1/2 inhibitor XMU-XP-1, a Chinese medicine formula Shenhuang plaster (SHP) or a control vehicle immediately after surgery. The anastomotic burst pressure, collagen deposition, and hydroxyproline concentration were evaluated at 3 and 7 days after the surgery, and qRT-PCR and western-blot analyses were used to characterize mRNA and protein expression levels. Both XMU-XP-1 and SHP significantly increased anastomotic burst pressure, collagen deposition, and the concentration of hydroxyproline in intestinal anastomotic tissue at postoperative day 7 (POD 7). Importantly, SHP could induce TGF-β1 expression, which activated its downstream target Smad-2 to activate the TGF-β1 signaling pathway. Moreover, SHP reduced the phosphorylation level of YAP and increased its active form, and treatment with verteporfin, a YAP-TEAD complex inhibitor, significantly suppressed the effects induced by SHP during anastomotic tissue healing. This study demonstrated that activation of the Hippo-YAP pathway enhances anastomotic healing, and that SHP enhances both the TGF-β1/Smad and YAP signaling pathways to promote rabbit anastomotic healing after surgery. These results suggest that SHP could be used to treat patients who underwent anastomosis to prevent the occurrence of anastomotic complications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Xing Wei
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine), Hangzhou 310006, Zhejiang, China
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10
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Yi Q, Yang J, Wu Y, Wang Y, Cao Q, Wen W. Immune microenvironment changes of liver cirrhosis: emerging role of mesenchymal stromal cells. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1204524. [PMID: 37539053 PMCID: PMC10395751 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1204524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Cirrhosis is a progressive and diffuse liver disease characterized by liver tissue fibrosis and impaired liver function. This condition is brought about by several factors, including chronic hepatitis, hepatic steatosis, alcohol abuse, and other immunological injuries. The pathogenesis of liver cirrhosis is a complex process that involves the interaction of various immune cells and cytokines, which work together to create the hepatic homeostasis imbalance in the liver. Some studies have indicated that alterations in the immune microenvironment of liver cirrhosis are closely linked to the development and prognosis of the disease. The noteworthy function of mesenchymal stem cells and their paracrine secretion lies in their ability to promote the production of cytokines, which in turn enhance the self-repairing capabilities of tissues. The objective of this review is to provide a summary of the alterations in liver homeostasis and to discuss intercellular communication within the organ. Recent research on MSCs is yielding a blueprint for cell typing and biomarker immunoregulation. Hopefully, as MSCs researches continue to progress, novel therapeutic approaches will emerge to address cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiuyun Yi
- National Center for Liver Cancer, Third Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
- International Cooperation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, Third Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, China
| | - Jinxian Yang
- National Center for Liver Cancer, Third Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
- International Cooperation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, Third Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, China
| | - Ying Wu
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Changhai Hospital, Naval Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ying Wang
- Department of Laboratory Diagnosis, Third Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, China
| | - Qiqi Cao
- National Center for Liver Cancer, Third Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
- International Cooperation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, Third Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, China
| | - Wen Wen
- National Center for Liver Cancer, Third Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Laboratory Diagnosis, Third Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, China
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11
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Watanabe M, Tsugeno Y, Sato T, Umetsu A, Nishikiori N, Furuhashi M, Ohguro H. TGF-β Isoforms Affect the Planar and Subepithelial Fibrogenesis of Human Conjunctival Fibroblasts in Different Manners. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2005. [PMID: 37509644 PMCID: PMC10377695 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11072005] [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: 05/29/2023] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Three highly homologous isoforms of TGF-β, TGF-β-1~3, are involved in the regulation of various pathophysiological conditions such as wound healing processes in different manners, despite the fact that they bind to the same receptors during their activation. The purpose of the current investigation was to elucidate the contributions of TGF-β-1 ~3 to the pathology associated with conjunctiva. For this purpose, the biological effects of these TGF-β isoforms on the structural and functional properties of two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) cultured human conjunctival fibroblasts (HconF) were subjected to the following analyses: 1) transendothelial electrical resistance (TEER), a Seahorse cellular metabolic measurement (2D), size and stiffness measurements of the 3D HTM spheroids, and the qPCR gene expression analyses of extracellular matrix (ECM) components (2D and 3D). The TGF-β isoforms caused different effects on the proliferation of the HconF cell monolayer evaluated by TEER measurements. The differences included a significant increase in the presence of 5 ng/mL TGF-β-1 and -2 and a substantial decrease in the presence of 5 ng/mL TGF-β-3, although there were no significant differences in the response to the TGF-β isoforms for cellular metabolism among the three groups. Similar to planar proliferation, the TGF-β isoforms also induced diverse effects toward the mechanical aspects of 3D HconF spheroids, where TGF-β-1 increased stiffness, TGF-β-2 caused no significant effects, and TGF-β-3 caused the downsizing of the spheroids and stiffness enhancement. The mRNA expression of the ECMs were also modulated in diverse manners by the TGF-β isoforms as well as the culture conditions for the 2D vs. 3D isoforms. Many of these TGF-β-3 inducible effects were markedly different from those caused by TGF-β1 and TGF-β-2. The findings presented herein suggest that the three TGF-β isoforms induce diverse and distinctly different effects on cellular properties and the expressions of ECM molecules in HconF and that these changes are independent of cellular metabolism, thereby inducing different effects on the epithelial and subepithelial proliferation of human conjunctiva.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megumi Watanabe
- Departments of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Sapporo Medical University, Sapporo 060-8556, Japan
| | - Yuri Tsugeno
- Departments of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Sapporo Medical University, Sapporo 060-8556, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Sato
- Departments of Cardiovascular, Renal and Metabolic Medicine, Sapporo Medical University, Sapporo 060-8556, Japan
- Departments of Cellular Physiology and Signal Transduction, Sapporo Medical University, Sapporo 060-8556, Japan
| | - Araya Umetsu
- Departments of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Sapporo Medical University, Sapporo 060-8556, Japan
| | - Nami Nishikiori
- Departments of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Sapporo Medical University, Sapporo 060-8556, Japan
| | - Masato Furuhashi
- Departments of Cardiovascular, Renal and Metabolic Medicine, Sapporo Medical University, Sapporo 060-8556, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Ohguro
- Departments of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Sapporo Medical University, Sapporo 060-8556, Japan
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12
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Sung MS, Kim SY, Eom GH, Park SW. High VEGF Concentrations Accelerate Human Trabecular Meshwork Fibrosis in a TAZ-Dependent Manner. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24119625. [PMID: 37298577 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24119625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
We aimed to investigate the effects of different concentrations of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) on the extracellular matrix (ECM) and fibrotic proteins in human trabecular meshwork (TM) cells. We also explored how the Yes-associated protein (YAP)/transcriptional co-activator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ) signaling pathway modulates VEGF-induced fibrosis. We determined cross-linked actin network (CLAN) formation using TM cells. Changes in fibrotic and ECM protein expression were determined. High VEGF concentrations (10 and 30 ng/mL) increased TAZ and decreased p-TAZ/TAZ expression in TM cells. Western blotting and real-time PCR revealed no YAP expression changes. Fibrotic and ECM protein expression decreased at low VEGF concentrations (1 and 10 ρg/mL) and significantly increased at high VEGF concentrations (10 and 30 ng/mL). CLAN formation increased in TM cells treated with high VEGF concentrations. Moreover, TAZ inhibition by verteporfin (1 μM) rescued TM cells from high-VEGF-concentration-induced fibrosis. Low VEGF concentrations reduced fibrotic changes, whereas high VEGF concentrations accelerated fibrosis and CLAN formations in TM cells in a TAZ-dependent manner. These findings reflect the dose-dependent influences of VEGF on TM cells. Moreover, TAZ inhibition might be a therapeutic target for VEGF-induced TM dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mi Sun Sung
- Department of Ophthalmology, Chonnam National University Medical School and Hospital, Gwangju 61469, Republic of Korea
| | - So Young Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Chonnam National University Medical School and Hospital, Gwangju 61469, Republic of Korea
| | - Gwang Hyeon Eom
- Department of Pharmacology, Chonnam National University Medical School, Hwasun 58128, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Woo Park
- Department of Ophthalmology, Chonnam National University Medical School and Hospital, Gwangju 61469, Republic of Korea
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13
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Caven LT, Carabeo RA. The role of infected epithelial cells in Chlamydia-associated fibrosis. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1208302. [PMID: 37265500 PMCID: PMC10230099 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1208302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Ocular, genital, and anogenital infection by the obligate intracellular pathogen Chlamydia trachomatis have been consistently associated with scar-forming sequelae. In cases of chronic or repeated infection of the female genital tract, infection-associated fibrosis of the fallopian tubes can result in ectopic pregnancy or infertility. In light of this urgent concern to public health, the underlying mechanism of C. trachomatis-associated scarring is a topic of ongoing study. Fibrosis is understood to be an outcome of persistent injury and/or dysregulated wound healing, in which an aberrantly activated myofibroblast population mediates hypertrophic remodeling of the basement membrane via deposition of collagens and other components of the extracellular matrix, as well as induction of epithelial cell proliferation via growth factor signaling. Initial study of infection-associated immune cell recruitment and pro-inflammatory signaling have suggested the cellular paradigm of chlamydial pathogenesis, wherein inflammation-associated tissue damage and fibrosis are the indirect result of an immune response to the pathogen initiated by host epithelial cells. However, recent work has revealed more direct routes by which C. trachomatis may induce scarring, such as infection-associated induction of growth factor signaling and pro-fibrotic remodeling of the extracellular matrix. Additionally, C. trachomatis infection has been shown to induce an epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition in host epithelial cells, prompting transdifferentiation into a myofibroblast-like phenotype. In this review, we summarize the field's current understanding of Chlamydia-associated fibrosis, reviewing key new findings and identifying opportunities for further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liam T. Caven
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States
- School of Molecular Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, United States
| | - Rey A. Carabeo
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States
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14
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Zhang L, Liang L, Su T, Guo Y, Yu Q, Zhu D, Cui Z, Zhang J, Chen J. Regulation of the Keratocyte Phenotype and Cell Behavior Derived from Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells by Substrate Stiffness. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2023; 9:856-868. [PMID: 36668685 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.2c01003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Substrate stiffness has been indicated as an important factor to control stem cell fate, including proliferation and differentiation. To optimize the stiffness for the differentiation process from h-iPSCs (human induced pluripotent stem cells) into h-iCSCs (human corneal stromal cells derived from h-iPSCs) and the phenotypic maintenance of h-iCSCs in vitro, h-iPSCs were cultured on matrigel-coated tissue culture plate (TCP) (106 kPa), matrigel-coated polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) 184 (1250 kPa), and matrigel-coated PDMS 527 (4 kPa) before they were differentiated to h-iCSCs. Immunofluorescence staining, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), and western blot demonstrated that the stiffer substrate TCP promoted the h-iCSCs' differentiation from h-iPSCs. On the contrary, softer PDMS 527 was more effective to maintain the phenotype of h-iCSCs cultured in vitro. Finally, we cultured h-iCSCs on PDMS 527 until P3 and seeded them on a biomimetic collagen membrane to form the single-layer and multiple-layer bioengineered corneal stroma with high transparency properties and cell survival rate. In conclusion, the study is helpful for differentiating h-iPSCs to h-iCSCs and corneal tissue engineering by manipulating stiffness mechanobiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lan Zhang
- Ophthalmology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Liying Liang
- Ophthalmology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Ting Su
- Ophthalmology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Yonglong Guo
- Ophthalmology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China.,College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Quan Yu
- Centric Laboratory, Medical College, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Deliang Zhu
- Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou 510080, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Zekai Cui
- Aier Eye Institute, Changsha 410015, Hunan Province, China
| | - Jun Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Information and Sensing Technologies, Guangdong Higher Educational Institutes, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Jiansu Chen
- Ophthalmology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China.,Aier Eye Institute, Changsha 410015, Hunan Province, China.,Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine, Ministry of Education, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China.,Institute of Ophthalmology, Medical College, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
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15
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BMP2 as a promising anticancer approach: functions and molecular mechanisms. Invest New Drugs 2022; 40:1322-1332. [PMID: 36040572 DOI: 10.1007/s10637-022-01298-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2), a pluripotent factor, is a member of the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) superfamily and is implicated in embryonic development and postnatal homeostasis in tissues and organs. Experimental research in the contexts of physiology and pathology has indicated that BMP2 can induce macrophages to differentiate into osteoclasts and accelerate the osteolytic mechanism, aggravating cancer cell bone metastasis. Emerging studies have stressed the potent regulatory effect of BMP2 in cancer cell differentiation, proliferation, survival, and apoptosis. Complicated signaling networks involving multiple regulatory proteins imply the significant biological functions of BMP2 in cancer. In this review, we comprehensively summarized and discussed the current evidence related to the modulation of BMP2 in tumorigenesis and development, including evidence related to the roles and molecular mechanisms of BMP2 in regulating cancer stem cells (CSCs), epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), cancer angiogenesis and the tumor microenvironment (TME). All these findings suggest that BMP2 may be an effective therapeutic target for cancer and a new marker for assessing treatment efficacy.
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16
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Puerta Cavanzo N, Riesmeijer SA, Holt-Kedde IL, Werker PMN, Piersma B, Olinga P, Bank RA. Verteporfin ameliorates fibrotic aspects of Dupuytren's disease nodular fibroblasts irrespective the activation state of the cells. Sci Rep 2022; 12:13940. [PMID: 35977978 PMCID: PMC9386017 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-18116-9] [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: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Dupuytren’s disease is a chronic, progressive fibroproliferative condition of the hand fascia which results in digital contraction. So far, treatments do not directly interfere with the (myo)fibroblasts that are responsible for the formation of the collagen-rich cords and its contraction. Here we investigated whether verteporfin (VP) is able to inhibit the activation and subsequent differentiation of DD nodular fibroblasts into myofibroblasts. Fibroblasts were isolated from nodules of 7 Dupuytren patients. Cells are treated (1) for 48 h with 5 ng/ml transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) followed by 48 h with/without 250 nM VP in the absence of TGF-β1, or treated (2) for 48 h with TGF-β1 followed by 48 h with/without VP in the presence of TGF-β1. mRNA levels were measured by means of Real-Time PCR, and proteins were visualized by means of Western blotting and/or immunofluorescence. Quantitative data were statistically analyzed with GraphPad Prism using the paired t-test. We found that fibroblasts activated for 48 h with TGF-β1 show a decrease in mRNA levels of COL1A1, COL3A1, COL4A1, PLOD2, FN1EDA, CCN2 and SERPINE1 when exposed for another 48 h with VP, whereas no decrease is seen for ACTA2, YAP1, SMAD2 and SMAD3 mRNA levels. Cells exposed for an additional 48 h with TGF-β1, but now in the presence of VP, are not further activated anymore, whereas in the absence of VP the cells continue to differentiate into myofibroblasts. Collagen type I, fibronectin-extra domain A, α-smooth muscle actin, YAP1, Smad2 and Smad3 protein levels were attenuated by both VP treatments. We conclude that VP has strong anti-fibrotic properties: it is able to halt the differentiation of fibroblasts into myofibroblasts, and is also able to reverse the activation status of fibroblasts. The decreased protein levels of YAP1, Smad2 and Smad3 in the presence of VP explain in part the strong anti-fibrotic properties of VP. Verteporfin is clinically used as a photosensitizer for photodynamic therapy to eliminate abnormal blood vessels in the eye to attenuate macular degeneration. The antifibrotic properties of VP do not rely on photo-activation, as we used the molecule in its non-photoinduced state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nataly Puerta Cavanzo
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy, Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy, University of Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV, Groningen, The Netherlands.,MATRIX Research Group, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Sophie A Riesmeijer
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Iris L Holt-Kedde
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Paul M N Werker
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Bram Piersma
- MATRIX Research Group, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Peter Olinga
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy, Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy, University of Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Ruud A Bank
- MATRIX Research Group, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ, Groningen, The Netherlands.
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17
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New Insights into Hippo/YAP Signaling in Fibrotic Diseases. Cells 2022; 11:cells11132065. [PMID: 35805148 PMCID: PMC9265296 DOI: 10.3390/cells11132065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Revised: 06/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis results from defective wound healing processes often seen after chronic injury and/or inflammation in a range of organs. Progressive fibrotic events may lead to permanent organ damage/failure. The hallmark of fibrosis is the excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM), mostly produced by pathological myofibroblasts and myofibroblast-like cells. The Hippo signaling pathway is an evolutionarily conserved kinase cascade, which has been described well for its crucial role in cell proliferation, apoptosis, cell fate decisions, and stem cell self-renewal during development, homeostasis, and tissue regeneration. Recent investigations in clinical and pre-clinical models has shown that the Hippo signaling pathway is linked to the pathophysiology of fibrotic diseases in many organs including the lung, heart, liver, kidney, and skin. In this review, we have summarized recent evidences related to the contribution of the Hippo signaling pathway in the development of organ fibrosis. A better understanding of this pathway will guide us to dissect the pathophysiology of fibrotic disorders and develop effective tissue repair therapies.
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18
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Zhang T, He X, Caldwell L, Goru SK, Ulloa Severino L, Tolosa MF, Misra PS, McEvoy CM, Christova T, Liu Y, Atin C, Zhang J, Hu C, Vukosa N, Chen X, Krizova A, Kirpalani A, Gregorieff A, Ni R, Chan K, Gill MK, Attisano L, Wrana JL, Yuen DA. NUAK1 promotes organ fibrosis via YAP and TGF-β/SMAD signaling. Sci Transl Med 2022; 14:eaaz4028. [PMID: 35320001 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.aaz4028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Fibrosis is a central pathway that drives progression of multiple chronic diseases, yet few safe and effective clinical antifibrotic therapies exist. In most fibrotic disorders, transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β)-driven scarring is an important pathologic feature and a key contributor to disease progression. Yes-associated protein (YAP) and transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ) are two closely related transcription cofactors that are important for coordinating fibrogenesis after organ injury, but how they are activated in response to tissue injury has, so far, remained unclear. Here, we describe NUAK family kinase 1 (NUAK1) as a TGF-β-inducible profibrotic kinase that is up-regulated in multiple fibrotic organs in mice and humans. Mechanistically, we show that TGF-β induces a rapid increase in NUAK1 in fibroblasts. NUAK1, in turn, can promote profibrotic YAP and TGF-β/SMAD signaling, ultimately leading to organ scarring. Moreover, activated YAP and TAZ can induce further NUAK1 expression, creating a profibrotic positive feedback loop that enables persistent fibrosis. Using mouse models of kidney, lung, and liver fibrosis, we demonstrate that this fibrogenic signaling loop can be interrupted via fibroblast-specific loss of NUAK1 expression, leading to marked attenuation of fibrosis. Pharmacologic NUAK1 inhibition also reduced scarring, either when initiated immediately after injury or when initiated after fibrosis was already established. Together, our data suggest that NUAK1 plays a critical, previously unrecognized role in fibrogenesis and represents an attractive target for strategies that aim to slow fibrotic disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianzhou Zhang
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital (Unity Health Toronto) and Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5B 1T8, Canada
| | - Xiaolin He
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital (Unity Health Toronto) and Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5B 1T8, Canada
| | - Lauren Caldwell
- Center for Systems Biology, Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mt. Sinai Hospital and Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5G 1X5, Canada
| | - Santosh Kumar Goru
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital (Unity Health Toronto) and Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5B 1T8, Canada
| | - Luisa Ulloa Severino
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital (Unity Health Toronto) and Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5B 1T8, Canada
| | - Monica F Tolosa
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital (Unity Health Toronto) and Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5B 1T8, Canada
| | - Paraish S Misra
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital (Unity Health Toronto) and Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5B 1T8, Canada
| | - Caitríona M McEvoy
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital (Unity Health Toronto) and Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5B 1T8, Canada
| | - Tania Christova
- Donnelly Centre and Department of Biochemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Yong Liu
- Ontario Institute of Cancer Research, Toronto, Ontario M5G OA3, Canada
| | - Cassandra Atin
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital (Unity Health Toronto) and Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5B 1T8, Canada
| | - Johnny Zhang
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital (Unity Health Toronto) and Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5B 1T8, Canada
| | - Catherine Hu
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital (Unity Health Toronto) and Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5B 1T8, Canada
| | - Noah Vukosa
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital (Unity Health Toronto) and Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5B 1T8, Canada
| | - Xiaolan Chen
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital (Unity Health Toronto) and Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5B 1T8, Canada
| | - Adriana Krizova
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, School of Graduate Studies, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Anish Kirpalani
- Department of Medical Imaging, St. Michael's Hospital (Unity Health Toronto) and University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5B 1W8, Canada
| | - Alex Gregorieff
- Center for Systems Biology, Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mt. Sinai Hospital and Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5G 1X5, Canada
| | - Ruoyu Ni
- Center for Systems Biology, Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mt. Sinai Hospital and Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5G 1X5, Canada
| | - Kin Chan
- Center for Systems Biology, Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mt. Sinai Hospital and Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5G 1X5, Canada
| | - Mandeep K Gill
- Donnelly Centre and Department of Biochemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Liliana Attisano
- Donnelly Centre and Department of Biochemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Jeffrey L Wrana
- Center for Systems Biology, Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mt. Sinai Hospital and Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5G 1X5, Canada
| | - Darren A Yuen
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital (Unity Health Toronto) and Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5B 1T8, Canada
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19
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García-García M, Sánchez-Perales S, Jarabo P, Calvo E, Huyton T, Fu L, Ng SC, Sotodosos-Alonso L, Vázquez J, Casas-Tintó S, Görlich D, Echarri A, Del Pozo MA. Mechanical control of nuclear import by Importin-7 is regulated by its dominant cargo YAP. Nat Commun 2022; 13:1174. [PMID: 35246520 PMCID: PMC8897400 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-28693-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Mechanical forces regulate multiple essential pathways in the cell. The nuclear translocation of mechanoresponsive transcriptional regulators is an essential step for mechanotransduction. However, how mechanical forces regulate the nuclear import process is not understood. Here, we identify a highly mechanoresponsive nuclear transport receptor (NTR), Importin-7 (Imp7), that drives the nuclear import of YAP, a key regulator of mechanotransduction pathways. Unexpectedly, YAP governs the mechanoresponse of Imp7 by forming a YAP/Imp7 complex that responds to mechanical cues through the Hippo kinases MST1/2. Furthermore, YAP behaves as a dominant cargo of Imp7, restricting the Imp7 binding and the nuclear translocation of other Imp7 cargoes such as Smad3 and Erk2. Thus, the nuclear import process is an additional regulatory layer indirectly regulated by mechanical cues, which activate a preferential Imp7 cargo, YAP, which competes out other cargoes, resulting in signaling crosstalk. The translation of mechanical cues into gene expression changes is dependent on the nuclear import of mechanoresponsive transcriptional regulators. Here the authors identify that Importin-7 drives the nuclear import of one such regulator YAP while YAP then controls Importin-7 response to mechanical cues and restricts Importin-7 binding to other cargoes.
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Affiliation(s)
- María García-García
- Mechanoadaptation and Caveolae Biology Laboratory. Area of Cell & Developmental Biology, Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), Calle Melchor Fernández Almagro, 3, 28029, Madrid, Spain
| | - Sara Sánchez-Perales
- Mechanoadaptation and Caveolae Biology Laboratory. Area of Cell & Developmental Biology, Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), Calle Melchor Fernández Almagro, 3, 28029, Madrid, Spain
| | - Patricia Jarabo
- Instituto Cajal-CSIC, Avda. Doctor Arce, 37, 28002, Madrid, Spain
| | - Enrique Calvo
- Proteomics Unit. Area of Vascular Physiopathology, Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), Calle Melchor Fernández Almagro, 3, 28029, Madrid, Spain.,CIBER de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares (CIBERCV), Madrid, Spain
| | - Trevor Huyton
- Department of Cellular Logistics, Max Planck Institute for Biophysical Chemistry, Am Fassberg 11, 37077, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Liran Fu
- Department of Cellular Logistics, Max Planck Institute for Biophysical Chemistry, Am Fassberg 11, 37077, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Sheung Chun Ng
- Department of Cellular Logistics, Max Planck Institute for Biophysical Chemistry, Am Fassberg 11, 37077, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Laura Sotodosos-Alonso
- Mechanoadaptation and Caveolae Biology Laboratory. Area of Cell & Developmental Biology, Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), Calle Melchor Fernández Almagro, 3, 28029, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jesús Vázquez
- Proteomics Unit. Area of Vascular Physiopathology, Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), Calle Melchor Fernández Almagro, 3, 28029, Madrid, Spain.,CIBER de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares (CIBERCV), Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Dirk Görlich
- Department of Cellular Logistics, Max Planck Institute for Biophysical Chemistry, Am Fassberg 11, 37077, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Asier Echarri
- Mechanoadaptation and Caveolae Biology Laboratory. Area of Cell & Developmental Biology, Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), Calle Melchor Fernández Almagro, 3, 28029, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Miguel A Del Pozo
- Mechanoadaptation and Caveolae Biology Laboratory. Area of Cell & Developmental Biology, Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), Calle Melchor Fernández Almagro, 3, 28029, Madrid, Spain.
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20
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He X, Tolosa MF, Zhang T, Goru SK, Ulloa Severino L, Misra PS, McEvoy CM, Caldwell L, Szeto SG, Gao F, Chen X, Atin C, Ki V, Vukosa N, Hu C, Zhang J, Yip C, Krizova A, Wrana JL, Yuen DA. Myofibroblast YAP/TAZ activation is a key step in organ fibrogenesis. JCI Insight 2022; 7:146243. [PMID: 35191398 PMCID: PMC8876427 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.146243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibrotic diseases account for nearly half of all deaths in the developed world. Despite its importance, the pathogenesis of fibrosis remains poorly understood. Recently, the two mechanosensitive transcription cofactors YAP and TAZ have emerged as important profibrotic regulators in multiple murine tissues. Despite this growing recognition, a number of important questions remain unanswered, including which cell types require YAP/TAZ activation for fibrosis to occur and the time course of this activation. Here, we present a detailed analysis of the role that myofibroblast YAP and TAZ play in organ fibrosis and the kinetics of their activation. Using analyses of cells, as well as multiple murine and human tissues, we demonstrated that myofibroblast YAP and TAZ were activated early after organ injury and that this activation was sustained. We further demonstrated the critical importance of myofibroblast YAP/TAZ in driving progressive scarring in the kidney, lung, and liver, using multiple transgenic models in which YAP and TAZ were either deleted or hyperactivated. Taken together, these data establish the importance of early injury-induced myofibroblast YAP and TAZ activation as a key event driving fibrosis in multiple organs. This information should help guide the development of new antifibrotic YAP/TAZ inhibition strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolin He
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital (Unity Health Toronto) and Department of Medicine, and
| | - Monica F Tolosa
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital (Unity Health Toronto) and Department of Medicine, and
| | - Tianzhou Zhang
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital (Unity Health Toronto) and Department of Medicine, and
| | - Santosh Kumar Goru
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital (Unity Health Toronto) and Department of Medicine, and
| | - Luisa Ulloa Severino
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital (Unity Health Toronto) and Department of Medicine, and
| | - Paraish S Misra
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital (Unity Health Toronto) and Department of Medicine, and
| | - Caitríona M McEvoy
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital (Unity Health Toronto) and Department of Medicine, and
| | - Lauren Caldwell
- Center for Systems Biology, Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mt. Sinai Hospital and Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Stephen G Szeto
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital (Unity Health Toronto) and Department of Medicine, and
| | - Feng Gao
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital (Unity Health Toronto) and Department of Medicine, and.,Department of Pathology, The Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaolan Chen
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital (Unity Health Toronto) and Department of Medicine, and.,Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Cassandra Atin
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital (Unity Health Toronto) and Department of Medicine, and
| | - Victoria Ki
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital (Unity Health Toronto) and Department of Medicine, and
| | - Noah Vukosa
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital (Unity Health Toronto) and Department of Medicine, and
| | - Catherine Hu
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital (Unity Health Toronto) and Department of Medicine, and
| | - Johnny Zhang
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital (Unity Health Toronto) and Department of Medicine, and
| | - Christopher Yip
- Faculty of Applied Science and Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Adriana Krizova
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital (Unity Health Toronto) and Department of Medicine, and.,Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, St. Michael's Hospital (Unity Health Toronto) and University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jeffrey L Wrana
- Center for Systems Biology, Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mt. Sinai Hospital and Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Darren A Yuen
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital (Unity Health Toronto) and Department of Medicine, and
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21
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Murphy R, Irnaten M, Hopkins A, O'Callaghan J, Stamer WD, Clark AF, Wallace D, O'Brien CJ. Matrix Mechanotransduction via Yes-Associated Protein in Human Lamina Cribrosa Cells in Glaucoma. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2022; 63:16. [PMID: 35015027 PMCID: PMC8762700 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.63.1.16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Extracellular matrix stiffening is characteristic of both aging and glaucoma, and acts as a promoter and perpetuator of pathological fibrotic remodeling. Here, we investigate the role of a mechanosensitive transcriptional coactivator, Yes-associated protein (YAP), a downstream effector of multiple signaling pathways, in lamina cribrosa (LC) cell activation to a profibrotic, glaucomatous state. Methods LC cells isolated from glaucomatous human donor eyes (GLC; n = 3) were compared to LC cells from age-matched nonglaucomatous controls (NLC; n = 3) to determine differential YAP expression, protein levels, and proliferation rates. NLC cells were then cultured on soft (4 kPa), and stiff (100 kPa), collagen-1 coated polyacrylamide hydrogel substrates. Quantitative real-time RT-PCR, immunoblotting, and immunofluorescence microscopy were used to measure the expression, activity, and subcellular location of YAP and its downstream targets, respectively. Proliferation rates were examined in NLC and GLC cells by methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium salt assays, across a range of incrementally increased substrate stiffness. Endpoints were examined in the presence or absence of a YAP inhibitor, verteporfin (2 µM). Results GLC cells show significantly (P < 0.05) increased YAP gene expression and total-YAP protein compared to NLC cells, with significantly increased proliferation. YAP regulation is mechanosensitive, because NLC cells cultured on pathomimetic, stiff substrates (100 kPa) show significantly upregulated YAP gene and protein expression, increased YAP phosphorylation at tyrosine 357, reduced YAP phosphorylation at serine 127, increased nuclear pooling, and increased transcriptional target, connective tissue growth factor. Accordingly, myofibroblastic markers, α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and collagen type I, alpha 1 (Col1A1) are increased. Proliferation rates are elevated on 50 kPa substrates and tissue culture plastic. Verteporfin treatment significantly inhibits YAP-mediated cellular activation and proliferation despite a stiffened microenvironment. Conclusions These data demonstrate how YAP plays a pivotal role in LC cells adopting a profibrotic and proliferative phenotype in response to the stiffened LC present in aging and glaucoma. YAP provides an attractive and novel therapeutic target, and its inhibition via verteporfin warrants further clinical investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rory Murphy
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland.,Clinical Research Centre, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Mustapha Irnaten
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland.,Clinical Research Centre, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Alan Hopkins
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland.,Clinical Research Centre, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Jeffrey O'Callaghan
- Ocular Genetics Unit, Smurfit Institute of Genetics, University of Dublin, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Abbot F Clark
- Department of Cell Biology & Immunology and the North Texas Eye Research Institute, U. North Texas Health Science Centre, Ft. Worth, Texas, United States
| | - Deborah Wallace
- Clinical Research Centre, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Colm J O'Brien
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland.,Clinical Research Centre, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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22
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Link PA, Choi KM, Diaz Espinosa AM, Jones DL, Gao AY, Haak AJ, Tschumperlin DJ. Combined control of the fibroblast contractile program by YAP and TAZ. Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol 2022; 322:L23-L32. [PMID: 34755530 PMCID: PMC8721907 DOI: 10.1152/ajplung.00210.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Yes-associated protein (YAP) and transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ) are transcription cofactors implicated in the contractile and profibrotic activation of fibroblasts. Fibroblast contractile function is important in alveologenesis and in lung wound healing and fibrosis. As paralogs, YAP and TAZ may have independent or redundant roles in regulating transcriptional programs and contractile function. Using IMR-90 lung fibroblasts, microarray analysis, and traction microscopy, we tested whether independent YAP or TAZ knockdown alone was sufficient to limit transcriptional activation and contraction in vitro. Our results demonstrate limited effects of knockdown of either YAP or TAZ alone, with more robust transcriptional and functional effects observed with combined knockdown, consistent with cooperation or redundancy of YAP and TAZ in transforming growth factor β1 (TGFβ1)-induced fibroblast activation and contractile force generation. The transcriptional responses to combined YAP/TAZ knockdown were focused on a relatively small subset of genes with prominent overrepresentation of genes implicated in contraction and migration. To explore potential disease relevance of our findings, we tested primary human lung fibroblasts isolated from patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and confirmed that YAP and TAZ combined knockdown reduced the expression of three cytoskeletal genes, ACTA2, CNN1, and TAGLN. We then compared the contribution of these genes, along with YAP and TAZ, to contractile function. Combined knockdown targeting YAP/TAZ was more effective than targeting any of the individual cytoskeletal genes in reducing contractile function. Together, our results demonstrate that YAP and TAZ combine to regulate a multigene program that is essential to fibroblast contractile function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick A. Link
- 1Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Kyoung Moo Choi
- 1Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Ana M. Diaz Espinosa
- 1Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Dakota L. Jones
- 1Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Ashley Y. Gao
- 2Department of Ophthalmology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Andrew J. Haak
- 1Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Daniel J. Tschumperlin
- 1Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, Minnesota
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23
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Swarup A, Ta CN, Wu AY. Molecular mechanisms and treatments for ocular symblephara. Surv Ophthalmol 2022; 67:19-30. [PMID: 33932469 PMCID: PMC8553799 DOI: 10.1016/j.survophthal.2021.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Revised: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
There are currently no effective methods to prevent or durably treat ocular symblephara, the adhesions between the palpebral and bulbar conjunctiva. How symblephara form at the molecular level is largely unknown. We present here an overview of current clinical symblephara treatments and describe potential molecular mechanisms behind conjunctival adhesion formation that may inform future symblephara treatment and prevention options. Understanding how symblephara form at the molecular level will facilitate treatment development. Preventative therapies may be possible by targeting symblephara progenitor cells immediately after injuries, while novel therapeutics should be aimed at modulating TGF-β pathways and effector cells in conjunctival scarring to treat symblephara formation more effectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aditi Swarup
- Department of Ophthalmology, Stanford University School of Medicine
| | - Christopher N Ta
- Department of Ophthalmology, Stanford University School of Medicine
| | - Albert Y Wu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Stanford University School of Medicine.
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24
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Understanding Drivers of Ocular Fibrosis: Current and Future Therapeutic Perspectives. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222111748. [PMID: 34769176 PMCID: PMC8584003 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Revised: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Ocular fibrosis leads to severe visual impairment and blindness worldwide, being a major area of unmet need in ophthalmology and medicine. To date, the only available treatments are antimetabolite drugs that have significant potentially blinding side effects, such as tissue damage and infection. There is thus an urgent need to identify novel targets to prevent/treat scarring and postsurgical fibrosis in the eye. In this review, the latest progress in biological mechanisms underlying ocular fibrosis are discussed. We also summarize the current knowledge on preclinical studies based on viral and non-viral gene therapy, as well as chemical inhibitors, for targeting TGFβ or downstream effectors in fibrotic disorders of the eye. Moreover, the role of angiogenetic and biomechanical factors in ocular fibrosis is discussed, focusing on related preclinical treatment approaches. Moreover, we describe available evidence on clinical studies investigating the use of therapies targeting TGFβ-dependent pathways, angiogenetic factors, and biomechanical factors, alone or in combination with other strategies, in ocular tissue fibrosis. Finally, the recent progress in cell-based therapies for treating fibrotic eye disorders is discussed. The increasing knowledge of these disorders in the eye and the promising results from testing of novel targeted therapies could offer viable perspectives for translation into clinical use.
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25
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Hong L, Zha Y, Wang C, Qiao S, An J. Folic Acid Alleviates High Glucose and Fat-Induced Pyroptosis via Inhibition of the Hippo Signal Pathway on H9C2 Cells. Front Mol Biosci 2021; 8:698698. [PMID: 34692767 PMCID: PMC8529044 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.698698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) is the leading cause of death in diabetic patients. Folic acid has a protective effect on diabetes-induced cardiomyocyte damage. The aim of this study was to explore the effects of folic acid on cardiomyocytes cultured under high glucose and fat (HGF) conditions and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) mice, and elucidate the underlying mechanisms. Bioinformatics analysis was used to identify the potential drugs through the Drug-Gene Interaction database. H9C2 cardiomyocytes were cultured with 30 mM glucose and 500 nM palmitic acid in the presence or absence of folic acid or YAP1 inhibitor (verteporfin) or YAP1 siRNA. The cell viability and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release were measured using specific assay kits. Pyroptosis was detected by flow cytometry. The concentrations of IL-1β and IL-18 in the supernatants were measured by ELISA. The NLRP3, ASC and caspase-1 mRNA levels were detected by qRT-PCR and that the proteins expression of NLRP3, ASC, cleaved caspase-1 (p10), caspase-1, YAP1, p-YAP1, LATS1 and P-LATS1 were detected by Western blotting. C57BL/6 mice were fed with high fat diet (HFD) combined with streptozotocin (STZ) intraperitoneally to establish a T2DM model, folic acid or PBS treatment for 8 weeks by oral gavage, blood glucose and body weight were measured every 4 weeks, mouse heart tissue was used to detect pyroptosis and hippo signaling pathway related protein expression. We identified 427 differentially expressed genes in the cardiac tissues of high fat diet + streptozotocin mice, among the 30 most significantly DEGs, folic acid was predicted to be the most likely therapeutic drug. Folic acid alleviated HGF-induced cell damage in vitro and in vivo by decreasing activation of the Hippo pathway, as indicated by lower LDH release and increased cell viability, and decreased expression of NLRP3, ASC, cleaved caspase-1, IL-1β, IL-18, p-YAP and p-LATS. Verteporfin or YAP1 siRNA neutralized the protective effect of folic acid by reversing YAP1-induced pyroptosis. Folic acid reduced NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated pyroptosis by down-regulating the Hippo signaling pathway, thereby effectively reducing T2DM-induced damage in H9C2 cells and animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Hong
- Institute of Clinical Medicine Research, Affiliated Suzhou Science and Technology Town Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China
| | - Yingjie Zha
- Institute of Clinical Medicine Research, Affiliated Suzhou Science and Technology Town Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China
| | - Chen Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Affiliated Suzhou Science and Technology Town Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China
| | - Shigang Qiao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Affiliated Suzhou Science and Technology Town Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China
| | - Jianzhong An
- Institute of Clinical Medicine Research, Affiliated Suzhou Science and Technology Town Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China
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26
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Hu D, Jiang J, Ding B, Xue K, Sun X, Qian S. Mechanical Strain Regulates Myofibroblast Differentiation of Human Scleral Fibroblasts by YAP. Front Physiol 2021; 12:712509. [PMID: 34658907 PMCID: PMC8514697 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.712509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Scleral extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling is thought to play a critical role in the pathogenesis of glaucoma. Mechanical strain induced by elevated intraocular pressure can promote myofibroblast differentiation of fibroblasts and result in scleral ECM remodeling; however, the underlying mechanism remains poorly understood. Yes-associated protein (YAP) is a mechanosensory protein and the key downstream transcriptional effector of the Hippo signaling pathway. Here, we investigated the role of YAP in mechanical strain-induced myofibroblast transformation during glaucoma scleral ECM remodeling. Integrative bioinformatics analyses were performed to identify the key pathways for the ECM remodeling of the sclera in glaucoma. Sprague–Dawley rats were used to establish a chronic ocular hypertension model, and the expression of collagen type I (COL1) and YAP in the sclera was analyzed by immunohistochemical analysis and Western blotting. Furthermore, human scleral fibroblasts (HSFs) were cultured and subjected to mechanical strain. In groups with or without the YAP siRNA or YAP inhibitor, cell proliferation, migration capacity, and the expression levels of YAP, COL1, and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) were evaluated by Cell Counting Kit-8 assay, scratch assay, and Western blotting. The interactions between YAP and Smad3 were demonstrated by coimmunoprecipitation, and the expression levels of COL1 and α-SMA were evaluated in groups treated with or without the Smad3 inhibitor. We first revealed that the Hippo signaling pathway may be involved in mechanical strain-induced scleral ECM remodeling through bioinformatics analysis. Furthermore, the in vivo study showed upregulated YAP, COL1, and α-SMA expression in the hypertensive sclera of rats. In vitro, mechanical strain increased YAP and COL1 expression in HSFs and promoted myofibroblast differentiation. After YAP knockdown or inhibition with verteporfin, mechanical strain-induced fibrotic changes in HSFs were markedly suppressed. Additionally, YAP showed a protein interaction with Smad3, and the upregulation of a-SMA and COL1 in response to mechanical strain was also significantly downregulated following the inhibition of Smad3. In conclusion, mechanical strain activated scleral myofibroblast differentiation via YAP. The YAP pathway may play an important role in regulating scleral myofibroblast differentiation and ECM remodeling of the sclera in glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Di Hu
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Science, Eye & ENT Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Myopia, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, and Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration (Fudan University), Shanghai, China.,Department of Ophthalmology, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, National Children's Medical Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Junhong Jiang
- The Eye Hospital, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Baiyang Ding
- Spine Research Center of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, China
| | - Kang Xue
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Science, Eye & ENT Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Myopia, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, and Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration (Fudan University), Shanghai, China
| | - Xinghuai Sun
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Science, Eye & ENT Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Myopia, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, and Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration (Fudan University), Shanghai, China.,State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shaohong Qian
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Science, Eye & ENT Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Myopia, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, and Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration (Fudan University), Shanghai, China
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27
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Sun Q, Gao Y, Qiao L, Yuan Y, Liu Q. 25(OH)-Vitamin D alleviates neonatal infectious pneumonia via regulating TGFβ-mediated nuclear translocation mechanism of YAP/TAZ. Bioengineered 2021; 12:8931-8942. [PMID: 34643152 PMCID: PMC8806993 DOI: 10.1080/21655979.2021.1990000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Neonatal infectious pneumonia (NIP) is a common infectious disease that develops in the neonatal period. The purpose of our study was to explore the potential roles of 25(OH)-Vitamin D (25-OH-VD) and its anti-inflammatory mechanism in NIP. The results showed that serum 25-OH-VD level was negatively correlated with the severity of NIP, whereas Spearman’s correlation analysis showed a significant positive correlation between the severity of NIP and the levels of pneumonia markers procalcitonin (PCT) and interleukin-6 (IL-6). The expression of vitamin D receptor (VDR) was down-regulated, while the transforming growth factor β (TGFβ), nuclear YAP, and TAZ were up-regulated in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of neonates with severe pneumonia. Neonates with 25-OH-VD deficiency were associated with an increased risk of NIP. In BEAS-2B cells, down-regulation of nuclear YAP and TAZ was found in the lipopolysaccharide (LPS) + VD group relative to the LPS-induced group. Additionally, positive rate of nuclear YAP, as detected by immunocytochemistry (ICC), and the nuclear translocation of nuclear YAP/TAZ by IFA in the LPS+VD group showed an intermediate level between that of the control and LPS-induced groups. Furthermore, the expressions of VDR and CYP27B1 were significantly increased in the LPS+VD group as compared to those in the LPS-induced group. The anti-inflammatory mechanism in NIP was achieved due to the 25-OH-VD mediating TGFβ/YAP/TAZ pathway, which suggested that using 25-OH-VD might be a potential strategy for NIP treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Sun
- Department of Pediatric, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, China
| | - Yiwen Gao
- Department of Pediatric, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, China
| | - Lina Qiao
- Department of Pediatric, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, China
| | - Yi Yuan
- Institute of Life Sciences, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China
| | - Qian Liu
- Department of Pediatric, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, China
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28
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Zhang W, Li J. Yes-associated protein is essential for proliferative vitreoretinopathy development via the epithelial-mesenchymal transition in retinal pigment epithelial fibrosis. J Cell Mol Med 2021; 25:10213-10223. [PMID: 34598306 PMCID: PMC8572794 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.16958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Revised: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
This study was aim to investigate whether the progression of proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) depended on the activation of Yes‐associated protein (YAP) and the subsequent epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) of retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cell. The effect of YAP activation on retinal fibrosis in a PVR mouse model and in human ARPE‐19 cells in vitro was studied. After treated with transforming growth factor‐β2(TGF‐β2), the expressions of fibrogenic molecules, YAP activation and the TGF‐β2‐Smad signalling pathway in ARPE‐19 cells were detected by Western blot and immunocytochemical analyses. The effect of YAP on change in fibrosis and EMT was tested by knockdown experiment using verteporfin (YAP inhibitor). YAP was upregulated in the PVR mouse model and during TGF‐β2–induced RPE cell EMT. In an in vivo study, verteporfin attenuated PVR progression in a mouse model. Additionally, YAP knockdown retained phenotype of RPE cells and ameliorated TGF‐β2–induced migration, gel contraction and EMT in vitro. YAP knockdown inhibited the TGF‐β2–induced upregulation of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), smooth muscle actin (SMA‐α) and fibronectin. YAP was essential for the TGF‐β2–induced nuclear translocation and phosphorylation of Smad2/3. Our work provides direct evidence that YAP is an essential regulator of EMT and profibrotic responses in PVR and indicates that YAP inhibition could be a potential target in PVR therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zhang
- Tianjin Key Lab of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Tianjin Eye Institute, Tianjin Eye Hospital, Clinical College of Ophthalmology Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China.,Department of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Jing Li
- Tianjin Key Lab of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Tianjin Eye Institute, Tianjin Eye Hospital, Clinical College of Ophthalmology Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
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29
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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: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [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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Abstract
Transforming growth factor-beta2 (TGF-β2) is recognized as a versatile cytokine that plays a vital role in regulation of joint development, homeostasis, and diseases, but its role as a biological mechanism is understood far less than that of its counterpart, TGF-β1. Cartilage as a load-resisting structure in vertebrates however displays a fragile performance when any tissue disturbance occurs, due to its lack of blood vessels, nerves, and lymphatics. Recent reports have indicated that TGF-β2 is involved in the physiological processes of chondrocytes such as proliferation, differentiation, migration, and apoptosis, and the pathological progress of cartilage such as osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). TGF-β2 also shows its potent capacity in the repair of cartilage defects by recruiting autologous mesenchymal stem cells and promoting secretion of other growth factor clusters. In addition, some pioneering studies have already considered it as a potential target in the treatment of OA and RA. This article aims to summarize the current progress of TGF-β2 in cartilage development and diseases, which might provide new cues for remodelling of cartilage defect and intervention of cartilage diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengmeng Duan
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Qingxuan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jing Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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Concurrent YAP/TAZ and SMAD signaling mediate vocal fold fibrosis. Sci Rep 2021; 11:13484. [PMID: 34188130 PMCID: PMC8241934 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-92871-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Vocal fold (VF) fibrosis is a major cause of intractable voice-related disability and reduced quality of life. Excision of fibrotic regions is suboptimal and associated with scar recurrence and/or further iatrogenic damage. Non-surgical interventions are limited, putatively related to limited insight regarding biochemical events underlying fibrosis, and downstream, the lack of therapeutic targets. YAP/TAZ integrates diverse cell signaling events and interacts with signaling pathways related to fibrosis, including the TGF-β/SMAD pathway. We investigated the expression of YAP/TAZ following vocal fold injury in vivo as well as the effects of TGF-β1 on YAP/TAZ activity in human vocal fold fibroblasts, fibroblast-myofibroblast transition, and TGF-β/SMAD signaling. Iatrogenic injury increased nuclear localization of YAP and TAZ in fibrotic rat vocal folds. In vitro, TGF-β1 activated YAP and TAZ in human VF fibroblasts, and inhibition of YAP/TAZ reversed TGF-β1-stimulated fibroplastic gene upregulation. Additionally, TGF-β1 induced localization of YAP and TAZ in close proximity to SMAD2/3, and nuclear accumulation of SMAD2/3 was inhibited by a YAP/TAZ inhibitor. Collectively, YAP and TAZ were synergistically activated with the TGF-β/SMAD pathway, and likely essential for the fibroplastic phenotypic shift in VF fibroblasts. Based on these data, YAP/TAZ may evolve as an attractive therapeutic target for VF fibrosis.
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Nakamura R, Bing R, Doyle CP, Garabedian MJ, Branski RC. Glucocorticoids activate Yes-associated protein in human vocal fold fibroblasts. Exp Cell Res 2021; 405:112681. [PMID: 34087241 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2021.112681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Revised: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Fibrosis of the vocal folds poses a substantive clinical challenge potentially underlying the rapid proliferation of direct steroid injections into the upper airway. The variable clinical response to glucocorticoids (GCs) in the vocal folds is likely related to diversity inherent to GCs and patient-specific, and upstream, cell-specific responses to GCs. Broadly, we hypothesize the disparity in clinical outcomes are due to undesirable effects of GCs on resident fibroblasts. Transcriptome analysis identified significant GC-mediated modulation of Hippo signaling, a known regulator of fibrotic gene expression. Subsequent analysis confirmed GC-mediated YAP activation, a transcriptional co-factor in the Hippo signaling pathway. YAP inhibition attenuated ACTA2 expression in GC-treated human vocal fold fibroblasts. Nuclear localization and phosphorylation at Ser211, however, was not affected by YAP inhibition, suggesting nuclear translocation of YAP is indirectly driven by GR. RNA-seq analysis confirmed the influence of GCs on Wnt signaling, and canonical Wnt signaling target genes were upregulated by GCs. These data implicate YAP and its downstream targets as putative mediators of a pro-fibrotic response to GCs. Therapeutic YAP inhibition may ultimately be clinically relevant and warrants further consideration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryosuke Nakamura
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Renjie Bing
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Carina P Doyle
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Ryan C Branski
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA; Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
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Yemanyi F, Raghunathan V. Lysophosphatidic Acid and IL-6 Trans-signaling Interact via YAP/TAZ and STAT3 Signaling Pathways in Human Trabecular Meshwork Cells. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2021; 61:29. [PMID: 33216119 PMCID: PMC7683860 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.61.13.29] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) and soluble interleukin-6 receptor (sIL6R) are elevated in primary open angle glaucoma (POAG). LPA and IL6 modulate in response to biomechanical stimuli and converge on similar fibrotic phenotypes. Thus, we determined whether LPA and IL6 trans-signaling (IL6/sIL6R) interact via Yes-associated protein (YAP)/Transcriptional coactivator with a PDZ-binding motif (TAZ) or Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) pathways in human trabecular meshwork (hTM) cells. Methods Confluent primary hTM cells were serum starved for 24 hours, and treated with vehicle, LPA (20 µM), IL6 (100 ng/mL)/sIL6R (200 ng/mL), or both (LPA + IL6/sIL6R) for 24 hours, with or without a YAP inhibitor (verteporfin; 2 µM) or STAT3 inhibitor (2 µM). Expression of key receptors and ligands, signaling mediators, actomyosin machinery, cell contractility, and extracellular matrix (ECM) targets of both signaling pathways was determined by immunocytochemistry, RT-qPCR, and Western blotting. Results LPA and IL6 trans-signaling coupling overexpressed/activated receptors and ligands, glycoprotein-130, IL6, and autotaxin; signaling mediators, YAP, TAZ, Pan-TEAD, and phosphorylated STAT3 (pSTAT3); actomyosin and contractile machinery components, myosin light chain 2 (MLC2), phosphorylated MLC2, rho-associated protein kinase 1, filamentous actin, and α-smooth muscle actin; and fibrotic ECM proteins, collagen I and IV, fibronectin, laminin, cysteine-rich angiogenic inducer 61, and connective tissue growth factor in hTM cells; mostly beyond LPA or IL6 trans-signaling alone. Verteporfin inhibited YAP, TAZ, and pSTAT3, with concomitant abrogation of aforementioned fibrotic targets; the STAT3 inhibitor was only partially effective. Conclusions These data suggest synergistic crosstalk between LPA and IL6 trans-signaling, mediated by YAP, TAZ, and pSTAT3. By completely inhibiting these mediators, verteporfin may be more efficacious in ameliorating LPA and/or IL6 trans-signaling–induced ocular hypertensive phenotypes in hTM cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix Yemanyi
- College of Optometry, University of Houston, Houston, Texas, United States
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Wang YC, Xie H, Zhang YC, Meng QH, Xiong MM, Jia MW, Peng F, Tang DL. Exosomal miR-107 antagonizes profibrotic phenotypes of pericytes by targeting a pathway involving HIF-1 α/Notch1/PDGFR β/YAP1/Twist1 axis in vitro. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2020; 320:H520-H534. [PMID: 33216617 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00373.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Microvascular pericytes have been demonstrated as an origin for myofibroblasts that produce excessive extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins such as α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and type I collagen (ColIA1) and contribute to pulmonary fibrosis (PF). However, the signaling mechanism responsible for ECM production within pericytes is poorly understood. In this study, we examined exosomal miR-107 in the fibrotic phenotypes of pericytes and the pathogenesis of PF. Using RT-qPCR, MiR-107 level was compared between clinical or bleomycin-induced PF and normal pulmonary tissues. Exosomes were isolated from cultured microvascular endothelial cells (ECs) derived from either normal or PF tissues, characterized using dynamic light scattering, transmission electron microscopy, flow cytometry, Western blot, and immunofluorescence, and then applied to pericytes. The effects of exosomes or different fibrosis-related signaling molecules were examined by Western blot, and the potential regulations between the signaling molecules were identified using bioinformatic analysis and assessed by electrophoretic mobility shift assay, chromatin immunoprecipitation, luciferase assay, and RNA binding protein immunoprecipitation. MiR-107 was downregulated in clinical or experimental PF tissues and also in exosomes from PF-derived ECs. EC-derived exosomal miR-107 essentially controlled the miR-107 level and inhibited α-SMA and ColIA1 expression in pericytes. The antifibrosis effect of miR-107 was mediated through the suppression of a pathway involving HIF-1α/Notch1/PDGFRβ/YAP1/Twist1, where miR-107 directly targeted HIF-1α mRNA, whereas the latter directly activated the transcriptions of both Notch1 and PDGFRβ. Functionally, targeting miR-107 promoted and targeting HIF-1α abolished the fibrotic phenotypes of pericytes. Exosomal miR-107 produced by pulmonary vascular ECs may alleviate pericyte-induced fibrosis by inhibiting a signaling pathway involving HIF-1α/Notch1/PDGFRβ/YAP1/Twist1.NEW & NOTEWORTHY This work reveals a novel mechanism by which pulmonary vascular endothelial cells, via regulating the transdifferentiation of microvascular pericytes into myofibroblasts, contribute to the pathogenesis of pulmonary fibrosis. Since targeting the formation of myofibroblasts may prevent the development and benefit the treatment of pulmonary fibrosis, this study provides not only mechanistic understanding but also promising therapeutic targets for pulmonary fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Chun Wang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Han Xie
- University of Central South China/Department of Critical Care Medicine, Hunan Cancer Hospital, Changsha, People's Republic of China
| | - Yong-Chang Zhang
- Department of Lung Cancer and Gastroenterology, Hunan Cancer Hospital, Changsha, People's Republic of China
| | - Qing-He Meng
- Department of Surgery, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York
| | - Ming-Mei Xiong
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Ming-Wang Jia
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Fang Peng
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Dao-Lin Tang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China.,Department of Surgery, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
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Matsumura T, Fujimoto T, Futakuchi A, Takihara Y, Watanabe-Kitamura F, Takahashi E, Inoue-Mochita M, Tanihara H, Inoue T. TGF-β-induced activation of conjunctival fibroblasts is modulated by FGF-2 and substratum stiffness. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0242626. [PMID: 33206726 PMCID: PMC7673499 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0242626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose This study aimed to investigate the effects of substratum stiffness on the sensitivity of human conjunctival fibroblasts to transforming growth factor (TGF)-β, and to explore the molecular mechanism of action. Methods Human conjunctival fibroblasts were cultured on collagen-coated plastic or silicone plates. The stiffness of the silicone plates was 0.2 or 64 kPa. Cells were treated by 2.5 ng/mL TGF-β2 with or without fibroblast growth factor (FGF)-2 (0–100 ng/mL) for 24 h or 48 h. The protein expression levels were determined by Western blot analysis. Cell proliferation was assessed using the WST-8 assay. Results FGF-2 suppressed the TGF-β-induced expression of α-smooth muscle actin (SMA) and collagen type I (Col I), but not fibronectin (FN). Both FGF-2 and TGF-β2 increased cell proliferation without an additive effect. The induction of α-SMA by TGF-β2 was decreased on the soft substratum, without any change in the expression level or subcellular location of Yes-associated protein/transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (YAP/TAZ). FGF-2 suppressed TGF-β-induced α-SMA expression even on the soft substratum. Conclusions FGF-2 treatment and a soft substratum suppressed TGF-β-induced transdifferentiation of conjunctival fibroblasts into myofibroblasts. FGF-2 attenuated the TGF-β-induced expression of α-SMA, even on a soft substratum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomoyo Matsumura
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Tomokazu Fujimoto
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Akiko Futakuchi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Yuji Takihara
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | | | - Eri Takahashi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Miyuki Inoue-Mochita
- Department of Medical Cell Biology, Institute of Molecular Embryology and Genetics, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | | | - Toshihiro Inoue
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
- * E-mail:
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Zhang W, Kong Y. YAP is essential for TGF-β-induced retinal fibrosis in diabetic rats via promoting the fibrogenic activity of Müller cells. J Cell Mol Med 2020; 24:12390-12400. [PMID: 32951332 PMCID: PMC7686973 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.15739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2020] [Revised: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to investigate whether Yes-associated protein (YAP) activation and proliferation of retinal Müller cells play a role in the development of TGF-β-induced retinal fibrosis. We studied the effects of YAP activation on retinal fibrosis in diabetic rats and human retinal Müller cells (hMCs) in vitro. The retinal expression of YAP and fibrogenic molecules in rats was detected using Western blotting and immunohistochemistry. After treatment with transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), the levels of fibrogenic molecules, and the activation of YAP and PI3K/Akt signalling pathway in hMCs were detected with Western blotting. The effect of YAP on retinal fibrotic changes was evaluated using YAP knockdown experiments and YAP inhibitors. Results showed that YAP expression was increased in the retina of diabetic rats along with increased retinal fibrosis. In cultured hMCs, YAP inhibition suppressed TGF-β1-stimulated hMC differentiation to myofibroblasts and extracellular matrix (ECM) production, while YAP activation promoted hMC differentiation and ECM production independent of TGF-β1. Furthermore, hMCs cultured on a gel with greater stiffness differentiated into myofibroblasts in a YAP-dependent manner. In diabetic rats, treatment with the YAP inhibitor verteporfin suppressed retinal fibrogenesis. In addition, the TGF-β1-induced PI3K/Akt signalling pathway mediated YAP activation as well as expression of fibrogenic molecules. The interaction between ECM stiffness and YAP forms a feed-forward process leading to retinal fibrosis. Our work highlights YAP as an essential regulator of pro-fibrotic responses in TGF-β-induced retinal fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zhang
- Tianjin Eye Hospital, Tianjin Key Lab of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Tianjin Eye Institute, Clinical College of Ophthalmology Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yichun Kong
- Tianjin Eye Hospital, Tianjin Key Lab of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Tianjin Eye Institute, Clinical College of Ophthalmology Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China.,Tianjin NanKai Hospital, NanKai Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Nankai university affiliated Nankai hospital, Tianjin, China
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Li S, Ji J, Zhang Z, Peng Q, Hao L, Guo Y, Zhou W, Cui Q, Shi X. Cisplatin promotes the expression level of PD-L1 in the microenvironment of hepatocellular carcinoma through YAP1. Mol Cell Biochem 2020; 475:79-91. [PMID: 32761300 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-020-03861-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most lethal malignancies worldwide. However, the immune tolerance limits the effect of chemotherapeutic drugs. Therefore, the mechanism of cisplatin in promoting PD-L1 expression by YAP1 was investigated in the present study, and we found that cisplatin increased the expression level of YAP1 in the mouse liver with H22 cells. Meanwhile, cisplatin improved the expression level of PD-L1, IL-1β and CCL2 in the tumor microenvironment. Further, cisplatin also enhanced the expression level of YAP1 in shYAP1 HepG2215 cells. The expression of PD-L1 was decreased by Verteporfin, YAP1 inhibitor, during the treatment of DEN/TCPOBOP-induced liver cancer in C57BL/6 mice. These results suggested that cisplatin could deteriorate the immunosuppressive microenvironment through increasing PD-L1, CCL2, IL-1β by upregulated YAP1 expression. Therefore, the study suggested that YAP1 blockade destroyed the immunosuppressive microenvironment of cancer to improve the effect of chemotherapy in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shenghao Li
- Department of Pathobiology and Immunology, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, No.3 Xingyuan Road, Shijiazhuang, 050200, Hebei, China.,Hebei Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine On Liver Kidney Patterns, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, 050200, China
| | - Jingmin Ji
- Department of Pathobiology and Immunology, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, No.3 Xingyuan Road, Shijiazhuang, 050200, Hebei, China
| | - Zhiqin Zhang
- Department of Pathobiology and Immunology, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, No.3 Xingyuan Road, Shijiazhuang, 050200, Hebei, China
| | - Qing Peng
- Department of Pathobiology and Immunology, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, No.3 Xingyuan Road, Shijiazhuang, 050200, Hebei, China
| | - Liyuan Hao
- Department of Pathobiology and Immunology, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, No.3 Xingyuan Road, Shijiazhuang, 050200, Hebei, China
| | - Yinglin Guo
- Department of Pathobiology and Immunology, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, No.3 Xingyuan Road, Shijiazhuang, 050200, Hebei, China
| | - Wenhan Zhou
- Department of Pathobiology and Immunology, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, No.3 Xingyuan Road, Shijiazhuang, 050200, Hebei, China
| | - Qingzhuo Cui
- Department of Pathobiology and Immunology, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, No.3 Xingyuan Road, Shijiazhuang, 050200, Hebei, China
| | - Xinli Shi
- Department of Pathobiology and Immunology, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, No.3 Xingyuan Road, Shijiazhuang, 050200, Hebei, China. .,Hebei Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine On Liver Kidney Patterns, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, 050200, China.
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Song L, Huang Y, Zhang X, Han S, Hou M, Li H. Downregulation of microRNA-224-3p Hampers Retinoblastoma Progression via Activation of the Hippo-YAP Signaling Pathway by Increasing LATS2. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2020; 61:32. [PMID: 32186675 PMCID: PMC7401717 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.61.3.32] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The pivotal role of microRNAs (miRNAs or miRs) has been proved in the pathogenesis of retinoblastoma. miR-224-3p is demonstrated to be involved in several tumors. However, the underlying mechanism of miR-224-3p in retinoblastoma is yet to be investigated. Therefore, this study was designed to identify the regulation of miR-224-3p in human retinoblastoma. Methods The expression pattern of miR-224-3p and large tumor suppressor 2 (LATS2) in retinoblastoma was measured by reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Afterward, the interaction between miR-224-3p and LATS2 was identified using a dual luciferase reporter gene assay. Next, gain-of-function and loss-of-function approaches were employed to examine the effects of miR-224-3p and LATS2 as well as their interaction on cell apoptosis, proliferation and angiogenesis abilities, and tumorigenesis. Whether the Hippo-YAP signaling pathway was involved in tumorigenesis was analyzed by determining downstream genes. Results LATS2 was downregulated in retinoblastoma, and its overexpression promoted apoptosis and suppressed proliferation of retinoblastoma cells. miR-224-3p, highly expressed in retinoblastoma, inhibited the expression of its target gene LATS2, which inhibited activation of the Hippo-YAP signaling pathway. Suppression of miR-224-3p promoted apoptosis while suppressing the proliferation of retinoblastoma cells and angiogenesis. Tumor progression induced by upregulation of miR-224-3p was diminished by restoration of LATS2. It was observed that tumor growth and angiogenesis were reduced by depleted miR-224-3p in the animal experiments. Conclusions The present study suggests that miR-224-3p targets LATS2 and blocks the Hippo-YAP signaling pathway activation, thus preventing the progression of retinoblastoma, which could be a new therapeutic target for retinoblastoma.
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Topical GDF11 accelerates skin wound healing in both type 1 and 2 diabetic mouse models. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2020; 529:7-14. [PMID: 32560821 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2020.05.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 05/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the role of truncated growth differentiation factor 11 (GDF11), in which the recognition site of Furin from wild-type GDF11 was deleted to enhance the cellular stability, in skin wound healing in the setting of diabetes mellitus (DM) and the underlying mechanisms. Our study found that both truncated and natural GDF11s effectively accelerated wound healing processes in both T1DM and T2DM mice with a potency compatible to PDGF, bFGF, and EGF, but being much higher than GDF8. At the cellular level, GDF11 stimulated the proliferation and suppressed HG-induced apoptosis of HSFs. Further study revealed that GDF11 activated the YAP-Smad2/3-CTGF fibrotic signaling pathway by reversing HG-induced upregulation of phosphorylated form of YAP (p-YAP), increases p-Smad2/3 levels, and restoring HG-induced repression of CTGF expression by GDF11. Overall, the study shows that both natural and truncated GDF11s promote the healing process of skin wound in mice of both T1DM and T2DM partly via stimulating dermal fibrosis via the YAP-Smad2/3-CTGF pathway, suggesting it a potential agent for treating skin wound in diabetic population.
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Trehalose attenuates TGF-β1-induced fibrosis of hSCFs by activating autophagy. Mol Cell Biochem 2020; 470:175-188. [DOI: 10.1007/s11010-020-03760-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Accepted: 05/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
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Qian T, Fu M, Hu C, Zhang Z, Xu X, Zou H. Imbalance of Matrix Metalloproteinases and Their Inhibitors Is Correlated With Trabeculectomy Outcomes in Acute Primary Angle Closure. Am J Ophthalmol 2020; 212:144-152. [PMID: 31887279 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajo.2019.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2019] [Revised: 12/14/2019] [Accepted: 12/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To analyze matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs), and their molar ratios in the aqueous humor in previous acute primary angle closure (APAC) patients and their correlations with trabeculectomy outcomes. DESIGN Prospective cohort study. METHODS Aqueous humor samples were collected from a total of 78 eyes, including 52 previous APAC eyes and 26 cataract eyes. TIMP-1, 2, 3, and 4 and MMP-1, 2, 3, 7, 8, 9, 12, and 13 analyte concentrations were measured using multiplexed immunoassay kits. Patient follow-up occurred at 1 week and 1, 3, 6, 12, and 18 months. RESULTS In the previous APAC group, 11 MMP/TIMP molar ratios were significantly lower. APAC eyes were then followed for up to 18 months after trabeculectomy and divided into success (37 eyes) and failure (15 eyes) groups. Five out of the 11 molar ratios were significantly lower in the failure group than in the success group. In multiple logistic regression analysis, failed filtration surgery was more likely in APAC eyes with lower MMP-2/TIMP-2 (P = .040, odds ratio = 44.499) and MMP-13/TIMP-1 (P = .034, odds ratio = 37.947) ratios. Previous APAC eyes were divided according to MMP-2/TIMP-2 and MMP-13/TIMP-1 ratios. Compared to eyes with high ratios, eyes with low MMP-2/TIMP-2 and MMP-13/TIMP-1 ratios had significantly higher failure rates. CONCLUSIONS In previous APAC eyes, changes in MMP and TIMP levels resulted in MMP and TIMP imbalance. Lower MMP-2/TIMP-2 and MMP-13/TIMP-1 ratios in aqueous humor are risk factors for trabeculectomy failure. Modulating specific MMP/TIMP ratios may have potential clinical applications for filtration surgery.
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GPCR-induced YAP activation sensitizes fibroblasts to profibrotic activity of TGFβ1. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0228195. [PMID: 32053631 PMCID: PMC7018035 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0228195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2019] [Accepted: 01/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Tissue fibrosis is a pathological condition characterized by uncontrolled fibroblast activation that ultimately leads to organ failure. The TGFβ1 pathway, one of the major players in establishment of the disease phenotype, is dependent on the transcriptional co-activators YAP/TAZ. We were interested whether fibroblasts can be sensitized to TGFβ1 by activation of the GPCR/YAP/TAZ axis and whether this mechanism explains the profibrotic properties of diverse GPCR ligands. We found that LPA, S1P and thrombin cooperate in human dermal fibroblasts with TGFβ1 to induce extracellular matrix synthesis, myofibroblast marker expression and cytokine secretion. Whole genome expression profiling identified a YAP/TAZ signature behind the synergistic profibrotic effects of LPA and TGFβ1. LPA, S1P and thrombin stimulation led to activation of the Rho-YAP axis, an increase of nuclear YAP-Smad2 complexes and enhanced expression of profibrotic YAP/Smad2-target genes. More generally, dermal, cardiac and lung fibroblast responses to TGFβ1 could be enhanced by increasing YAP nuclear levels (with GPCR ligands LPA, S1P, thrombin or Rho activator) and inhibited by decreasing nuclear YAP (with Rho inhibitor, forskolin, latrunculin B or 2-deoxy-glucose). Thus, we present here a conceptually interesting finding that fibroblast responses to TGFβ1 can be predicted based on the nuclear levels of YAP and modulated by stimuli/treatments that change YAP nuclear levels. Our study contributes to better understanding of fibrosis as a complex interplay of signalling pathways and proposes YAP/TAZ as promising targets in the treatment of fibrosis.
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Zhang W, Jiang H, Kong Y. Exosomes derived from platelet-rich plasma activate YAP and promote the fibrogenic activity of Müller cells via the PI3K/Akt pathway. Exp Eye Res 2020; 193:107973. [PMID: 32059976 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2020.107973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2019] [Revised: 02/09/2020] [Accepted: 02/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of exosomes derived from platelet-rich plasma (PRP-Exos) in the regulation of the fibrogenic activity of Müller cells and the underlying mechanism. We studied the effects of PRP-Exos on the fibrogenic activity of human retinal Müller cells (hMCs) in vitro. PRP-Exos were isolated from the plasma of diabetic rats (DM-PRP-Exos) and normal control rats (Nor-PRP-Exos) and then observed by transmission electron microscopy. After treatment with DM-PRP-Exos or Nor-PRP-Exos, the proliferation and migration of hMCs were measured in vitro. Western blotting was conducted to assess the levels of fibrogenic molecules and activation of Yes-associated protein (YAP) and the PI3K-Akt signalling pathway. In cultured hMCs, DM-PRP-Exos but not Nor-PRP-Exos effectively increased the proliferative and migratory activities and improved connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) and fibronectin expression. Genetic and pharmacological suppression of YAP could reduce the proliferative and migratory activities of hMCs induced by DM-PRP-Exo. Additionally, YAP knockdown inhibited the DM-PRP-Exo-induced up-regulation of CTGF and fibronectin. Furthermore, DM-PRP-Exo-induced PI3K-Akt signalling mediated YAP activation and the expression of CTGF and fibronectin. In summary, DM-PRP-Exos, through YAP activation, enhance both the proliferation and fibrogenic activity of Müller cells via the PI3K/Akt pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zhang
- Tianjin Eye Hospital, Tianjin Key Lab of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Tianjin Eye Institute, Clinical College of Ophthalmology Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300020, China
| | - Hao Jiang
- Tianjin Eye Hospital, Tianjin Key Lab of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Tianjin Eye Institute, Clinical College of Ophthalmology Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300020, China
| | - Yichun Kong
- Tianjin Eye Hospital, Tianjin Key Lab of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Tianjin Eye Institute, Clinical College of Ophthalmology Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300020, China.
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Kang JH, Jung MY, Choudhury M, Leof EB. Transforming growth factor beta induces fibroblasts to express and release the immunomodulatory protein PD-L1 into extracellular vesicles. FASEB J 2019; 34:2213-2226. [PMID: 31907984 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201902354r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2019] [Revised: 11/15/2019] [Accepted: 11/20/2019] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-beta (TGFβ) is an enigmatic protein with various roles in healthy tissue homeostasis/development as well as the development or progression of cancer, wound healing, fibrotic disorders, and immune modulation, to name a few. As TGFβ is causal to various fibroproliferative disorders featuring localized or systemic tissue/organ fibrosis as well as the activated stroma observed in various malignancies, characterizing the pathways and players mediating its action is fundamental. In the current study, we found that TGFβ induces the expression of the immunoinhibitory molecule Programed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) in human and murine fibroblasts in a Smad2/3- and YAP/TAZ-dependent manner. Furthermore, PD-L1 knockdown decreased the TGFβ-dependent induction of extracellular matrix proteins, including collagen Iα1 (colIα1) and alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), and cell migration/wound healing. In addition to an endogenous role for PD-L1 in profibrotic TGFβ signaling, TGFβ stimulated-human lung fibroblast-derived PD-L1 into extracellular vesicles (EVs) capable of inhibiting T cell proliferation in response to T cell receptor stimulation and mediating fibroblast cell migration. These findings provide new insights and potential targets for a variety of fibrotic and malignant diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeong-Han Kang
- Thoracic Diseases Research Unit, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Mi-Yeon Jung
- Thoracic Diseases Research Unit, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Malay Choudhury
- Thoracic Diseases Research Unit, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Edward B Leof
- Thoracic Diseases Research Unit, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA
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Chaqour B. Caught between a "Rho" and a hard place: are CCN1/CYR61 and CCN2/CTGF the arbiters of microvascular stiffness? J Cell Commun Signal 2019; 14:21-29. [PMID: 31376071 DOI: 10.1007/s12079-019-00529-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2019] [Accepted: 07/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a deformable dynamic structure that dictates the behavior, function and integrity of blood vessels. The composition, density, chemistry and architecture of major globular and fibrillar proteins of the matrisome regulate the mechanical properties of the vasculature (i.e., stiffness/compliance). ECM proteins are linked via integrins to a protein adhesome directly connected to the actin cytoskeleton and various downstream signaling pathways that enable the cells to respond to external stimuli in a coordinated manner and maintain optimal tissue stiffness. However, cardiovascular risk factors such as diabetes, dyslipidemia, hypertension, ischemia and aging compromise the mechanical balance of the vascular wall. Stiffening of large blood vessels is associated with well-known qualitative and quantitative changes of fibrillar and fibrous macromolecules of the vascular matrisome. However, the mechanical properties of the thin-walled microvasculature are essentially defined by components of the subendothelial matrix. Cellular communication network (CCN) 1 and 2 proteins (aka Cyr61 and CTGF, respectively) of the CCN protein family localize in and act on the pericellular matrix of microvessels and constitute primary candidate markers and regulators of microvascular compliance. CCN1 and CCN2 bind various integrin and non-integrin receptors and initiate signaling pathways that regulate connective tissue remodeling and response to injury, the associated mechanoresponse of vascular cells, and the subsequent inflammatory response. The CCN1 and CCN2 genes are themselves responsive to mechanical stimuli in vascular cells, wherein mechanotransduction signaling converges into the common Rho GTPase pathway, which promotes actomyosin-based contractility and cellular stiffening. However, CCN1 and CCN2 each exhibit unique functional attributes in these processes. A better understanding of their synergistic or antagonistic effects on the maintenance (or loss) of microvascular compliance in physiological and pathological situations will assist more broadly based studies of their functional properties and translational value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brahim Chaqour
- Department of Cell Biology and Department of Ophthalmology, State University of New York - SUNY Downstate Medical Center, 450 Clarkson Avenue, MSC 5, Brooklyn, NY, 11203, USA.
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Peidl A, Perbal B, Leask A. Yin/Yang expression of CCN family members: Transforming growth factor beta 1, via ALK5/FAK/MEK, induces CCN1 and CCN2, yet suppresses CCN3, expression in human dermal fibroblasts. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0218178. [PMID: 31170244 PMCID: PMC6553774 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0218178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2018] [Accepted: 05/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The role of the microenvironment in driving connective tissue disease is being increasingly appreciated. Matricellular proteins of the CCN family are signaling modifiers that are secreted by cells into the extracellular matrix microenvironment where they have profound, context-dependent effects on organ development, homeostasis and disease. Indeed, CCN proteins are emergent targets for therapeutic intervention. Recent evidence suggests that, in vivo, CCN3 has effects opposing CCN2. Moreover, when CCN3 expression is high, CCN2 expression is low. That is, they appear to be regulated in a yin/yang fashion, leading to the hypothesis that the CCN2:CCN3 ratio is important to control tissue homeostasis. To begin to test the hypothesis that alterations in CCN2:CCN3 expression might be important in skin biology in vivo, we evaluated the relative ex vivo effects of the profibrotic protein TGFbeta1 on dermal fibroblasts on protein and RNA expression of CCN3 and CCN2, as well as the related protein CCN1. We also used signal transduction inhibitors to begin to identify the signal transduction pathways controlling the ability of fibroblasts to respond to TGFbeta1. As anticipated, CCN1 and CCN2 protein and mRNA were induced by TGFbeta1 in human dermal fibroblasts. This induction was blocked by TAK1, FAK, YAP1 and MEK inhibition. Conversely, TGFbeta1 suppressed CCN3 mRNA expression in a fashion insensitive to FAK, MEK, TAK1 or YAP1 inhibition. Unexpectedly, CCN3 protein was not detected in human dermal fibroblasts basally. These data suggest that, in dermal fibroblasts, the profibrotic protein TGFbeta1 has a divergent effect on CCN3 relative to CCN2 and CCN1, both at the mRNA and protein level. Given that the major source in skin in vivo of CCN proteins are fibroblasts, our data are consistent that alterations in CCN2/CCN1: CCN3 ratios in response to profibrotic agents such as TGFbeta1 may play a role in connective tissue pathologies including fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Peidl
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | | | - Andrew Leask
- Department of Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
- * E-mail:
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