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Wang Z, Chen G, Li H, Liu J, Yang Y, Zhao C, Li Y, Shi J, Chen H, Chen G. Zotarolimus alleviates post-trabeculectomy fibrosis via dual functions of anti-inflammation and regulating AMPK/mTOR axis. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 142:113176. [PMID: 39303539 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.113176] [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: 07/24/2024] [Revised: 09/10/2024] [Accepted: 09/11/2024] [Indexed: 09/22/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Postoperative scar formation is the primary cause of uncontrolled intraocular pressure following trabeculectomy failure. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of zotarolimus as an adjuvant anti-scarring agent in the experimental trabeculectomy. METHODS We performed differential gene and Gene Ontology enrichment analysis on rabbit follicular transcriptome sequencing data (GSE156781). New Zealand white Rabbits were randomly assigned into three groups: Surgery only, Surgery with mitomycin-C treatment, Surgery with zotarolimus treatment. Rabbits were euthanized 3 days or 28 days post-trabeculectomy. Pathological sections were analyzed using immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, and Masson staining. In vitro, primary human tenon's capsule fibroblasts (HTFs) were stimulated by transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) and treated with either mitomycin-C or zotarolimus. Cell proliferation and migration were evaluated using cell counting kit-8, cell cycle, and scratch assays. Mitochondrial membrane potential was detected with the JC-1 probe, and reactive oxygen species were detected using the DCFH-DA probe. RNA and protein expressions were quantified using RT-qPCR and immunofluorescence. RESULTS Transcriptome sequencing analysis revealed the involvement of complex immune factors and metabolic disorders in trabeculectomy outcomes. Zotarolimus effectively inhibited fibrosis, reduced proinflammatory factor release and immune cell infiltration, and improved the surgical outcomes of trabeculectomy. In TGF-β1-induced HTFs, zotarolimus reduced fibrosis, proliferation, and migration without cytotoxicity via the dual regulation of the TGF-β1/Smad2/3 and AMPK/AKT/mTOR pathways. CONCLUSION Our study demonstrates that zotarolimus mitigates fibrosis by reducing immune infiltration and correcting metabolic imbalances, offering a potential treatment for improving trabeculectomy surgical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiruo Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, the Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China; Hunan Clinical Research Center of Ophthalmic Disease, Changsha, China
| | - Gong Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, the Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China; Hunan Clinical Research Center of Ophthalmic Disease, Changsha, China
| | - Haoyu Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, the Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China; Hunan Clinical Research Center of Ophthalmic Disease, Changsha, China
| | - Jingyuan Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, the Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China; Hunan Clinical Research Center of Ophthalmic Disease, Changsha, China
| | - Yuanyuan Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, the Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China; Hunan Clinical Research Center of Ophthalmic Disease, Changsha, China
| | - Cong Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, the Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China; Hunan Clinical Research Center of Ophthalmic Disease, Changsha, China
| | - Yunping Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, the Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China; Hunan Clinical Research Center of Ophthalmic Disease, Changsha, China
| | - Jingming Shi
- Department of Ophthalmology, the Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China; Hunan Clinical Research Center of Ophthalmic Disease, Changsha, China
| | - Huihui Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, the Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China; Hunan Clinical Research Center of Ophthalmic Disease, Changsha, China; Clinical Immunology Research Center of Central South University, Changsha, China.
| | - Guochun Chen
- Clinical Immunology Research Center of Central South University, Changsha, China; Department of Nephrology, the Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
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Lin L, Ren R, Xiong Q, Zheng C, Yang B, Wang H. Remodeling of T-cell mitochondrial metabolism to treat autoimmune diseases. Autoimmun Rev 2024; 23:103583. [PMID: 39084278 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2024.103583] [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: 05/06/2024] [Revised: 07/23/2024] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
T cells are key drivers of the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases by producing cytokines, stimulating the generation of autoantibodies, and mediating tissue and cell damage. Distinct mitochondrial metabolic pathways govern the direction of T-cell differentiation and function and rely on specific nutrients and metabolic enzymes. Metabolic substrate uptake and mitochondrial metabolism form the foundational elements for T-cell activation, proliferation, differentiation, and effector function, contributing to the dynamic interplay between immunological signals and mitochondrial metabolism in coordinating adaptive immunity. Perturbations in substrate availability and enzyme activity may impair T-cell immunosuppressive function, fostering autoreactive responses and disrupting immune homeostasis, ultimately contributing to autoimmune disease pathogenesis. A growing body of studies has explored how metabolic processes regulate the function of diverse T-cell subsets in autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), multiple sclerosis (MS), autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and psoriasis. This review describes the coordination of T-cell biology by mitochondrial metabolism, including the electron transport chain (ETC), oxidative phosphorylation, amino acid metabolism, fatty acid metabolism, and one‑carbon metabolism. This study elucidated the intricate crosstalk between mitochondrial metabolic programs, signal transduction pathways, and transcription factors. This review summarizes potential therapeutic targets for T-cell mitochondrial metabolism and signaling in autoimmune diseases, providing insights for future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liyan Lin
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Laboratory Medicine, Chengdu 610041, China; Laboratory Medicine Research Center of West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Ruyu Ren
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Laboratory Medicine, Chengdu 610041, China; Laboratory Medicine Research Center of West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Qiao Xiong
- Department of Infectious Disease, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Chunfu Zheng
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Infection Diseases, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
| | - Bin Yang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Laboratory Medicine, Chengdu 610041, China; Laboratory Medicine Research Center of West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
| | - Huiqing Wang
- Department of Pediatrics, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
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Lai KKH, Liao X, Aljufairi FMAA, Sebastian JU, Ma A, Man Wong Y, Lam Lee C, Chen W, Hu Z, Cheng GPM, Tham CC, Pang CP, Chong KKL. Ocular surface and meibomian gland evaluation in euthyroid Graves' ophthalmopathy. Int Ophthalmol 2024; 44:124. [PMID: 38430354 PMCID: PMC10908617 DOI: 10.1007/s10792-024-02919-y] [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: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Euthyroid Graves' ophthalmology (EGO) refers to the subgroup of thyroid eye disease patients with distinct clinical presentations. This study evaluated the ocular surface and meibomian gland changes in EGO patients. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted at The Chinese University of Hong Kong including 34 EGO patients and 34 age-and sex- matched healthy controls. Outcome measures include anterior segment examination, keratographic and meibographic imaging. RESULTS Between 34 EGO patients and 34 age and sex-matched healthy controls, EGO was associated with a higher ocular surface disease index (P < 0.01), higher severity of meibomian gland dropout (upper: P < 0.001, lower: P < 0.00001) and higher percentage of partial blinking (P = 0.0036). The worse affected eyes of the EGO patients were associated with corneal staining (P = 0.0019), eyelid telangiectasia (P = 0.0009), eyelid thickening (P = 0.0013), eyelid irregularity (P = 0.0054), meibomian gland plugging (P < 0.00001), expressibility (P < 0.00001), and meibum quality (P < 0.00001). When the two eyes of the same EGO patient were compared, the degree of meibomian gland dropout was higher among the worse affected eyes (upper: P < 0.00001, and lower: P < 0.00001). Tear meniscus height, lipid layer thickness, and noninvasive break-up time were comparable between the two eyes of EGO patients and also between EGO patients and healthy controls. TMH was positively correlated with the degree of exophthalmos (r = 0.383, P < 0.05). CONCLUSION EGO patients have more ocular surface complications and meibomian gland dropouts than healthy controls. Almost 60% of them had dry eye symptoms, but aqueous deficiency was not apparent. Further studies are warranted to clarify the mechanism of dry eye in EGO. (249 words).
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth Ka Hei Lai
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Hong Kong Eye Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, 147K Argyle Street, Kowloon, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Prince of Wales Hospital, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Xulin Liao
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Hong Kong Eye Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, 147K Argyle Street, Kowloon, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Fatema Mohamed Ali Abdulla Aljufairi
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Hong Kong Eye Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, 147K Argyle Street, Kowloon, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
- Department of Ophthalmology, Salmaniya Medical Complex, Government Hospitals, Manama, Bahrain
| | - Jake Uy Sebastian
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Hong Kong Eye Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, 147K Argyle Street, Kowloon, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hong Kong Sanatorium and Hospital, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Andre Ma
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Prince of Wales Hospital, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
- Hong Kong Eye Hospital, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Yiu Man Wong
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Hong Kong Eye Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, 147K Argyle Street, Kowloon, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Cheuk Lam Lee
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
- Department of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Wanxue Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Hong Kong Eye Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, 147K Argyle Street, Kowloon, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Zhichao Hu
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Hong Kong Eye Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, 147K Argyle Street, Kowloon, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
| | - George P M Cheng
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Hong Kong Eye Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, 147K Argyle Street, Kowloon, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
- Hong Kong Laser Eye Center, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Clement C Tham
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Hong Kong Eye Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, 147K Argyle Street, Kowloon, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
- Hong Kong Eye Hospital, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Chi Pui Pang
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Hong Kong Eye Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, 147K Argyle Street, Kowloon, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Kelvin K L Chong
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Hong Kong Eye Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, 147K Argyle Street, Kowloon, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR.
- Hong Kong Eye Hospital, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR.
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Eckstein A, Stöhr M, Görtz GE, Gulbins A, Möller L, Fuehrer-Sakel D, Oeverhaus M. Current Therapeutic Approaches for Graves' Orbitopathy - are Targeted Therapies the Future? Klin Monbl Augenheilkd 2024; 241:48-68. [PMID: 37799096 DOI: 10.1055/a-2186-5548] [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: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
Graves' orbitopathy is an autoimmune disease of the orbit that most frequently occurs with Graves' hyperthyroidism. The occurrence of autoantibodies directed against the TSH receptor (TRAb) is of central importance for the diagnosis and pathogenesis. These autoantibodies are mostly stimulating, and induce uncontrolled hyperthyroidism and tissue remodelling in the orbit and more or less pronounced inflammation. Consequently, patients suffer to a variable extent from periocular swelling, exophthalmos, and fibrosis of the eye muscles and thus restrictive motility impairment with double vision. In recent decades, therapeutic approaches have mainly comprised immunosuppressive treatments and antithyroid drug therapy for hyperthyroidism to inhibit thyroid hormone production. With the recognition that TRAb also activates an important growth factor receptor, IGF1R (insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor), biological agents have been developed. Teprotumumab (an inhibitory IGF1R antibody) has already been approved in the USA and the therapeutic effects are enormous, especially with regard to the reduction of exophthalmos. Side effects are to be considered, especially hyperglycaemia and hearing loss. It is not yet clear whether the autoimmune reaction (development of the TRAb/attraction of immunocompetent cells) is also influenced by anti-IGF1R inhibiting agents. Recurrences after therapy show that the inhibition of antibody development must be included in the therapeutic concept, especially in severe cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anja Eckstein
- Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikum Essen, Deutschland
| | - Mareile Stöhr
- Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikum Essen, Deutschland
| | - Gina-Eva Görtz
- Labor für Molekulare Augenheilkunde, Universität Duisburg-Essen, Duisburg, Deutschland
| | - Anne Gulbins
- Labor für Molekulare Augenheilkunde, Universität Duisburg-Essen, Duisburg, Deutschland
| | - Lars Möller
- Klinik für Endokrinologie, Diabetologie und Stoffwechsel, Universitätsklinikum Essen, Deutschland
| | - Dagmar Fuehrer-Sakel
- Klinik für Endokrinologie, Diabetologie und Stoffwechsel, Universitätsklinikum Essen, Deutschland
| | - Michael Oeverhaus
- Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikum Essen, Deutschland
- Gemeinschaftspraxis Dres. Oeverhaus & Weiß, Rietberg, Deutschland
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Zhang X, Zhao Q, Li B. Current and promising therapies based on the pathogenesis of Graves' ophthalmopathy. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1217253. [PMID: 38035032 PMCID: PMC10687425 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1217253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Graves' ophthalmopathy (GO) is a hyperthyroidism-related and immune-mediated disease that poses a significant threat to human health. The pathogenesis of GO primarily involves T cells, B cells, and fibroblasts, suggesting a pivotal role for the thyrotropin-antibody-immunocyte-fibroblast axis. Traditional treatment approaches for Graves' disease (GD) or GO encompass antithyroid drugs (ATDs), radioactive iodine, and beta-blockers. However, despite decades of treatment, there has been limited improvement in the global incidence of GO. In recent years, promising therapies, including immunotherapy, have emerged as leading contenders, demonstrating substantial benefits in clinical trials by inhibiting the activation of immune cells like Th1 and B cells. Furthermore, the impact of diet, gut microbiota, and metabolites on GO regulation has been recognized, suggesting the potential of non-pharmaceutical interventions. Moreover, as traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) components have been extensively explored and have shown effective results in treating autoimmune diseases, remarkable progress has been achieved in managing GO with TCM. In this review, we elucidate the pathogenesis of GO, summarize current and prospective therapies for GO, and delve into the mechanisms and prospects of TCM in its treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Zhang
- Eye School of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
- Department of Ophthalmology, Chengdu Integrated TCM and Western Medicine Hospital/Chengdu First People’s Hospital, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Standardization of Chinese Medicine, Ministry of Education, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Qixiang Zhao
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Vascular Homeostasis and Remodeling, Peking University, Beijing, China
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, West China Medical School, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, China
| | - Bei Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Chengdu Integrated TCM and Western Medicine Hospital/Chengdu First People’s Hospital, Chengdu, China
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Joachim A, Aussel R, Gélard L, Zhang F, Mori D, Grégoire C, Villazala Merino S, Gaya M, Liang Y, Malissen M, Malissen B. Defective LAT signalosome pathology in mice mimics human IgG4-related disease at single-cell level. J Exp Med 2023; 220:e20231028. [PMID: 37624388 PMCID: PMC10457416 DOI: 10.1084/jem.20231028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Mice with a loss-of-function mutation in the LAT adaptor (LatY136F) develop an autoimmune and type 2 inflammatory disorder called defective LAT signalosome pathology (DLSP). We analyzed via single-cell omics the trajectory leading to LatY136F DLSP and the underlying CD4+ T cell diversification. T follicular helper cells, CD4+ cytotoxic T cells, activated B cells, and plasma cells were found in LatY136F spleen and lung. Such cell constellation entailed all the cell types causative of human IgG4-related disease (IgG4-RD), an autoimmune and inflammatory condition with LatY136F DLSP-like histopathological manifestations. Most previously described T cell-mediated autoimmune manifestations require persistent TCR input. In contrast, following their first engagement by self-antigens, the autoreactive TCR expressed by LatY136F CD4+ T cells hand over their central role in T cell activation to CD28 costimulatory molecules. As a result, all subsequent LatY136F DLSP manifestations, including the production of autoantibodies, solely rely on CD28 engagement. Our findings elucidate the etiology of the LatY136F DLSP and qualify it as a model of IgG4-RD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anais Joachim
- Aix Marseille Université, INSERM, CNRS, Centre d’Immunologie de Marseille-Luminy, Marseille, France
| | - Rudy Aussel
- Aix Marseille Université, INSERM, CNRS, Centre d’Immunologie de Marseille-Luminy, Marseille, France
| | - Léna Gélard
- Aix Marseille Université, INSERM, CNRS, Centre d’Immunologie de Marseille-Luminy, Marseille, France
- Centre d’Immunophénomique, INSERM, CNRS, Aix Marseille Université, Marseille, France
| | - Fanghui Zhang
- Aix Marseille Université, INSERM, CNRS, Centre d’Immunologie de Marseille-Luminy, Marseille, France
- School of Laboratory Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory for Immunology and Targeted Therapy, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Daiki Mori
- Aix Marseille Université, INSERM, CNRS, Centre d’Immunologie de Marseille-Luminy, Marseille, France
- Centre d’Immunophénomique, INSERM, CNRS, Aix Marseille Université, Marseille, France
| | - Claude Grégoire
- Aix Marseille Université, INSERM, CNRS, Centre d’Immunologie de Marseille-Luminy, Marseille, France
| | - Sergio Villazala Merino
- Aix Marseille Université, INSERM, CNRS, Centre d’Immunologie de Marseille-Luminy, Marseille, France
| | - Mauro Gaya
- Aix Marseille Université, INSERM, CNRS, Centre d’Immunologie de Marseille-Luminy, Marseille, France
| | - Yinming Liang
- School of Laboratory Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory for Immunology and Targeted Therapy, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Marie Malissen
- Aix Marseille Université, INSERM, CNRS, Centre d’Immunologie de Marseille-Luminy, Marseille, France
- Centre d’Immunophénomique, INSERM, CNRS, Aix Marseille Université, Marseille, France
- Laboratory of Immunophenomics, School of Laboratory Medicine, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Bernard Malissen
- Aix Marseille Université, INSERM, CNRS, Centre d’Immunologie de Marseille-Luminy, Marseille, France
- Centre d’Immunophénomique, INSERM, CNRS, Aix Marseille Université, Marseille, France
- Laboratory of Immunophenomics, School of Laboratory Medicine, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
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Wang L, Zhang M, Wang Y, Shi B. Graves' Orbitopathy Models: Valuable Tools for Exploring Pathogenesis and Treatment. Horm Metab Res 2023; 55:745-751. [PMID: 37903495 DOI: 10.1055/a-2161-5417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2023]
Abstract
Graves' orbitopathy (GO) is the most common extrathyroidal complication of Graves' disease (GD) and severely affects quality of life. However, its pathogenesis is still poorly understood, and therapeutic options are limited. Animal models are important tools for preclinical research. The animals in some previous models only exhibited symptoms of hyperthyroidism without ocular lesions. With the improvements achieved in modeling methods, some progressive animal models have been established. Immunization of mice with A subunit of the human thyroid stimulating hormone receptor (TSHR) by either adenovirus or plasmid (with electroporation) is widely used and convincing. These models are successful to identify that the gut microbiota influences the occurrence and severity of GD and GO, and sex-related risk factors may be key contributors to the female bias in the occurrence of GO rather than sex itself. Some data provide insight that macrophages and CD8+ T cells may play an important pathogenic role in the early stage of GO. Our team also replicated the time window from GD onset to GO onset and identified a group of CD4+ cytotoxic T cells. In therapeutic exploration, TSHR derived peptides, fingolimod, and rapamycin offer new potential options. Further clinical trials are needed to investigate these drugs. With the increasing use of these animal models and more in-depth studies of the new findings, scientists will gain a clearer understanding of the pathogenesis of GO and identify more treatments for patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Wang
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Meng Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yue Wang
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Bingyin Shi
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
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Mo K, Chu Y, Liu Y, Zheng G, Song K, Song Q, Zheng H, Tang Y, Tian X, Yao W, Fang H, Wang K, Jiang Y, Yang D, Chen Y, Huang C, Li T, Qu H, Song X, Zhou J. Targeting hnRNPC suppresses thyroid follicular epithelial cell apoptosis and necroptosis through m 6A-modified ATF4 in autoimmune thyroid disease. Pharmacol Res 2023; 196:106933. [PMID: 37729957 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2023.106933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
Both environmental and genetic factors contribute to the etiology of autoimmune thyroid disease (AITD) including Graves' disease (GD) and Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT). However, the exact pathogenesis and interactions that occur between environmental factors and genes remain unclear, and therapeutic targets require further investigation due to limited therapeutic options. To solve such problems, this study utilized single-cell transcriptome, whole transcriptome, full-length transcriptome (Oxford nanopore technology), and metabolome sequencing to examine thyroid lesion tissues from 2 HT patients and 2 GD patients as well as healthy thyroid tissue from 1 control subject. HT patients had increased ATF4-positive thyroid follicular epithelial (ThyFoEp) cells, which significantly increased endoplasmic reticulum stress. The enhanced sustained stress resulted in cell death mainly including apoptosis and necroptosis. The ATF4-based global gene regulatory network and experimental validation revealed that N6-methyladenosine (m6A) reader hnRNPC promoted the transcriptional activity, synthesis, and translation of ATF4 through mediating m6A modification of ATF4. Increased ATF4 expression initiated endoplasmic reticulum stress signaling, which when sustained, caused apoptosis and necroptosis in ThyFoEp cells, and mediated HT development. Targeting hnRNPC and ATF4 notably decreased ThyFoEp cell death, thus ameliorating disease progression. Collectively, this study reveals the mechanisms by which microenvironmental cells in HT and GD patients trigger and amplify the thyroid autoimmune cascade response. Furthermore, we identify new therapeutic targets for the treatment of autoimmune thyroid disease, hoping to provide a potential way for targeted therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Mo
- Key Laboratory of Spatiotemporal Single-Cell Technologies and Translational Medicine, Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai 264000, Shandong, China; Experimental Center of BIOQGene, YuanDong International Academy of Life Sciences, 999077, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yongli Chu
- Department of Scientific Research, Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai 264000, Shandong, China
| | - Yang Liu
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai 264000, Shandong, China
| | - Guibin Zheng
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai 264000, Shandong, China
| | - Kaiyu Song
- Department of Endocrinology, Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai 264000, Shandong, China
| | - Qiong Song
- Key Laboratory of Spatiotemporal Single-Cell Technologies and Translational Medicine, Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai 264000, Shandong, China; Experimental Center of BIOQGene, YuanDong International Academy of Life Sciences, 999077, Hong Kong, China
| | - Haitao Zheng
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai 264000, Shandong, China
| | - Yuxiao Tang
- Department of Endocrinology, Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai 264000, Shandong, China
| | - Xinghan Tian
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai 264000, Shandong, China
| | - Wenjie Yao
- Department of Endocrinology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, Shandong, China
| | - Han Fang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai 264000, Shandong, China
| | - Kejian Wang
- Experimental Center of BIOQGene, YuanDong International Academy of Life Sciences, 999077, Hong Kong, China; Innovative Institute of Chinese Medicine and Pharmacy, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250300, Shandong, China
| | - Yongqiang Jiang
- Biology Institute, Guangxi Academy of Sciences, Nanning 530007, Guangxi, China
| | - Dengfeng Yang
- Biology Institute, Guangxi Academy of Sciences, Nanning 530007, Guangxi, China
| | - Yixuan Chen
- Experimental Center of BIOQGene, YuanDong International Academy of Life Sciences, 999077, Hong Kong, China; Biology Institute, Guangxi Academy of Sciences, Nanning 530007, Guangxi, China
| | - Chengyu Huang
- Experimental Center of BIOQGene, YuanDong International Academy of Life Sciences, 999077, Hong Kong, China; Biology Institute, Guangxi Academy of Sciences, Nanning 530007, Guangxi, China
| | - Ting Li
- Experimental Center of BIOQGene, YuanDong International Academy of Life Sciences, 999077, Hong Kong, China; Biology Institute, Guangxi Academy of Sciences, Nanning 530007, Guangxi, China
| | - Hongmei Qu
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai 264000, Shandong, China.
| | - Xicheng Song
- Key Laboratory of Spatiotemporal Single-Cell Technologies and Translational Medicine, Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai 264000, Shandong, China; Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai 264000, Shandong, China.
| | - Jin Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Spatiotemporal Single-Cell Technologies and Translational Medicine, Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai 264000, Shandong, China; Department of Endocrinology, Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai 264000, Shandong, China.
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Tu W, Cao YW, Sun M, Liu Q, Zhao HG. mTOR signaling in hair follicle and hair diseases: recent progress. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1209439. [PMID: 37727765 PMCID: PMC10506410 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1209439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway is a major regulator of cell proliferation and metabolism, playing significant roles in proliferation, apoptosis, inflammation, and illness. More and more evidences showed that the mTOR signaling pathway affects hair follicle circulation and maintains the stability of hair follicle stem cells. mTOR signaling may be a critical cog in Vitamin D receptor (VDR) deficiency-mediated hair follicle damage and degeneration and related alopecia disorders. This review examines the function of mTOR signaling in hair follicles and hair diseases, and talks about the underlying molecular mechanisms that mTOR signaling regulates.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Heng-Guang Zhao
- Department of Dermatology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
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10
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Cao T, Xie F, Shi Y, Xu J, Liu Y, Cui D, Zhang F, Lin L, Li W, Gao Y, Ruan Y, Wang X, Zhu Y, Han B, Xia S, Guo W, Li B, Jing Y. Rapamycin and Low-dose IL-2 Mediate an Immunosuppressive Microenvironment to Inhibit Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia. Int J Biol Sci 2023; 19:3441-3455. [PMID: 37497009 PMCID: PMC10367549 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.85089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a condition that becomes more common with age and manifests itself primarily as the expansion of the prostate and surrounding tissues. However, to date, the etiology of BPH remains unclear. In this respect, we performed single-cell RNA sequencing of prostate transition zone tissues from elderly individuals with different prostate volumes to reveal their distinct tissue microenvironment. Ultimately, we demonstrated that a reduced Treg/CD4+ T-cell ratio in the large-volume prostate and a relatively activated immune microenvironment were present, characterized partially by increased expression levels of granzymes, which may promote vascular growth and profibrotic processes and further exacerbate BPH progression. Consistently, we observed that the prostate gland of patients taking immunosuppressive drugs usually remained at a smaller volume. Furthermore, in mouse models, we confirmed that both suppression of the immune system with rapamycin and induction of Treg proliferation with low doses of IL-2 therapy indeed prevented the progression of BPH. Taken together, our findings suggest that an activated immune microenvironment is necessary for prostate volume growth and that Tregs can reverse this immune activation state, thereby inhibiting the progression of BPH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianyu Cao
- Department of Urology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Feng Xie
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Youwei Shi
- Department of Urology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Junhao Xu
- Department of Urology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi Liu
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Di Cui
- Department of Urology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Fang Zhang
- Department of Urology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Lihui Lin
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Weize Li
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanting Gao
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuan Ruan
- Department of Urology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaohai Wang
- Department of Urology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yiping Zhu
- Department of Urology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Bangmin Han
- Department of Urology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shujie Xia
- Department of Urology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenhuan Guo
- Department of Pathology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Bin Li
- Center for Immune-Related Diseases at Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine of Ruijin Hospital, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Clinical Translational Research Center, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Arthritis Research, Guanghua Integrative Medicine Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Integrated TCM & Western Medicine, Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- Henan Key Laboratory for Digestive Organ Transplantation, Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Immunity and Inflammatory Diseases, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yifeng Jing
- Department of Urology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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11
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Chen Z, Zhang M, Liu Y, Chen Z, Wang L, Wang W, Wang J, He M, Shi B, Wang Y. VEGF-A enhances the cytotoxic function of CD4 + cytotoxic T cells via the VEGF-receptor 1/VEGF-receptor 2/AKT/mTOR pathway. J Transl Med 2023; 21:74. [PMID: 36737819 PMCID: PMC9896805 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-03926-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND CD4+ cytotoxic T cells (CD4 CTLs) are CD4+ T cells with major histocompatibility complex-II-restricted cytotoxic function. Under pathologic conditions, CD4 CTLs hasten the development of autoimmune disease or viral infection by enhancing cytotoxicity. However, the regulators of the cytotoxicity of CD4 CTLs are not fully understood. METHODS To explore the potential regulators of the cytotoxicity of CD4 CTLs, bulk RNA and single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, flow cytometry, quantitative PCR, and in-vitro stimulation and inhibition assays were performed. RESULTS In this study, we found that VEGF-A promoted the cytotoxicity of CD4 CTLs through scRNA-seq and flow cytometry. Regarding the specific VEGF receptor (R) involved, VEGF-R1/R2 signaling was activated in CD4 CTLs with increased cytotoxicity, and the VEGF-A effects were inhibited when anti-VEGF-R1/R2 neutralizing antibodies were applied. Mechanistically, VEGF-A treatment activated the AKT/mTOR pathway in CD4 CTLs, and the increases of cytotoxic molecules induced by VEGF-A were significantly reduced when the AKT/mTOR pathway was inhibited. CONCLUSION In conclusion, VEGF-A enhances the cytotoxicity of CD4 CTLs through the VEGF-R1/VEGF-R2/AKT/mTOR pathway, providing insights for the development of novel treatments for disorders associated with CD4 CTLs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyi Chen
- grid.452438.c0000 0004 1760 8119Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Meng Zhang
- grid.452438.c0000 0004 1760 8119Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Yufeng Liu
- grid.43169.390000 0001 0599 1243MOE Key Lab for Intelligent Networks & Networks Security, School of Electronic and Information Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China ,grid.452438.c0000 0004 1760 8119Genome Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China ,grid.452438.c0000 0004 1760 8119BioBank, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Zhe Chen
- grid.452452.00000 0004 1757 9282Department of Spine Surgery, Hong Hui Hospital, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Ling Wang
- grid.452438.c0000 0004 1760 8119Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Wenjuan Wang
- grid.452438.c0000 0004 1760 8119Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Jincheng Wang
- grid.452438.c0000 0004 1760 8119Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Mingqian He
- grid.452438.c0000 0004 1760 8119Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Bingyin Shi
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.
| | - Yue Wang
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China. .,MOE Key Lab for Intelligent Networks & Networks Security, School of Electronic and Information Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China. .,Genome Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.
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