1
|
Shang Y, Zhang G, Yao X, Lai C, Wang F, Zeng B, Liu E, Yuan H, Cheng Z, Jiang L. [ 68Ga]Ga-labeled FAPI Conjugated with Gly-Pro Sequence for PET Imaging of Malignant Tumors. Mol Imaging Biol 2024; 26:729-737. [PMID: 38987449 DOI: 10.1007/s11307-024-01935-9] [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: 01/07/2024] [Revised: 06/26/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To improve tumor uptake and prolong tumor retention, a novel fibroblast activation protein (FAP) ligand based on a quinoline-based FAP inhibitor (FAPI) conjugated with the Gly-Pro sequence and 1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane-N,N',N″,N‴-tetraacetic acid (DOTA) was radiolabeled with [68Ga]GaCl3 ([68Ga]Ga-DOTA-GPFAPI-04). Due to the tumor heterogeneity, this study aimed to further validate the preclinical value of [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-GPFAPI-04 PET imaging in tumor mice models with different FAP expression levels. METHODS [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-GPFAPI-04 was synthesized and its partition coefficient was measured. The stability of [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-GPFAPI-04 was tested in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS, pH 7.4) and fetal bovine serum (FBS). Small animal PET and semi-quantitative studies were conducted in Panc-1 and A549 xenograft tumor mice models compared with [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-FAPI-04. Immunofluorescent and immunohistochemical staining and western blot assay were performed to confirm FAP expression in xenograft tumors. RESULTS [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-GPFAPI-04 exhibited a radiochemical purity of > 99% and high stability in PBS and FBS. [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-GPFAPI-04 had higher hydrophilic property than [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-FAPI-04 (-4.09 ± 0.05 vs -3.45 ± 0.05). Small animal PET and semi-quantitative analysis revealed Panc-1 xenograft tumor displayed higher tumor uptake of [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-GPFAPI-04 and tumor-to-background ratios compared to A549 xenograft tumor, consistent with the results of immunofluorescence, immunohistochemistry, and western blot. Moreover, [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-GPFAPI-04 demonstrated higher tumor accumulation and longer tumor retention than [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-FAPI-04 in both Panc-1 and A549 xenograft tumors. Furthermore, the FAP-binding specificity of [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-GPFAPI-04 was confirmed in vivo by co-injection of unlabeled GPFAPI-04. CONCLUSION [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-GPFAPI-04 showed more favorable in vivo tumor imaging and longer tumor retention compared to [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-FAPI-04, which has high potential to be a promising PET probe for detecting FAP-positive tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuxiang Shang
- Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China
- PET Center, Department of Nuclear Medicine, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Guojin Zhang
- PET Center, Department of Nuclear Medicine, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xinchao Yao
- PET Center, Department of Nuclear Medicine, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chaoquan Lai
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, College of Life and Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Shenyang, China
| | - Fanghu Wang
- PET Center, Department of Nuclear Medicine, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Baozhen Zeng
- Department of Pathology, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Entao Liu
- PET Center, Department of Nuclear Medicine, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hui Yuan
- PET Center, Department of Nuclear Medicine, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhen Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Molecular Imaging Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.
- Drug Discovery Shandong Laboratory, Bohai Rim Advanced Research Institute for Drug Discovery, Yantai, Shandong, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
| | - Lei Jiang
- Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China.
- PET Center, Department of Nuclear Medicine, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Artificial Intelligence in Medical Image Analysis and Application, Guangzhou, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Rodrigues KE, Pontes MHB, Cantão MBS, Prado AF. The role of matrix metalloproteinase-9 in cardiac remodeling and dysfunction and as a possible blood biomarker in heart failure. Pharmacol Res 2024; 206:107285. [PMID: 38942342 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2024.107285] [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: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 06/15/2024] [Accepted: 06/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/30/2024]
Abstract
Heart failure (HF) is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in cardiovascular diseases, being responsible for many hospitalizations annually. HF is considered a public health problem with significant economic and social impact, which makes searches essential for strategies that improve the ability to predict and diagnose HF. In this way, biomarkers can help in risk stratification for a more personalized approach to patients with HF. Preclinical and clinical evidence shows the participation of matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) in the HF process. In this review, we will demonstrate the critical role that MMP-9 plays in cardiac remodeling and dysfunction. We will also show its importance as a blood biomarker in acute and chronic HF patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Keuri Eleutério Rodrigues
- Biodiversity and Biotechnology Post Graduate Program - BIONORTE, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Para, Belem, Brazil; Cardiovascular System Pharmacology and Toxicology Laboratory, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Para, Belem, Brazil
| | - Maria Helena Barbosa Pontes
- Cardiovascular System Pharmacology and Toxicology Laboratory, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Para, Belem, Brazil; Pharmacology and Biochemistry Post Graduate Program - FARMABIO, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Para, Belem, Brazil
| | - Manoel Benedito Sousa Cantão
- Cardiovascular System Pharmacology and Toxicology Laboratory, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Para, Belem, Brazil; Pharmacology and Biochemistry Post Graduate Program - FARMABIO, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Para, Belem, Brazil
| | - Alejandro Ferraz Prado
- Biodiversity and Biotechnology Post Graduate Program - BIONORTE, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Para, Belem, Brazil; Cardiovascular System Pharmacology and Toxicology Laboratory, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Para, Belem, Brazil; Pharmacology and Biochemistry Post Graduate Program - FARMABIO, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Para, Belem, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Chatham JC, Patel RP. Protein glycosylation in cardiovascular health and disease. Nat Rev Cardiol 2024; 21:525-544. [PMID: 38499867 DOI: 10.1038/s41569-024-00998-z] [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] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
Protein glycosylation, which involves the attachment of carbohydrates to proteins, is one of the most abundant protein co-translational and post-translational modifications. Advances in technology have substantially increased our knowledge of the biosynthetic pathways involved in protein glycosylation, as well as how changes in glycosylation can affect cell function. In addition, our understanding of the role of protein glycosylation in disease processes is growing, particularly in the context of immune system function, infectious diseases, neurodegeneration and cancer. Several decades ago, cell surface glycoproteins were found to have an important role in regulating ion transport across the cardiac sarcolemma. However, with very few exceptions, our understanding of how changes in protein glycosylation influence cardiovascular (patho)physiology remains remarkably limited. Therefore, in this Review, we aim to provide an overview of N-linked and O-linked protein glycosylation, including intracellular O-linked N-acetylglucosamine protein modification. We discuss our current understanding of how all forms of protein glycosylation contribute to normal cardiovascular function and their roles in cardiovascular disease. Finally, we highlight potential gaps in our knowledge about the effects of protein glycosylation on the heart and vascular system, highlighting areas for future research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John C Chatham
- Division of Molecular and Cellular Pathology, Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA.
| | - Rakesh P Patel
- Division of Molecular and Cellular Pathology, Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Huang ZM, Kang JQ, Chen PZ, Deng LF, Li JX, He YX, Liang J, Huang N, Luo TY, Lan QW, Chen HK, Guo XG. Identifying the Interaction Between Tuberculosis and SARS-CoV-2 Infections via Bioinformatics Analysis and Machine Learning. Biochem Genet 2024; 62:2606-2630. [PMID: 37991568 DOI: 10.1007/s10528-023-10563-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
The number of patients with COVID-19 caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 is still increasing. In the case of COVID-19 and tuberculosis (TB), the presence of one disease affects the infectious status of the other. Meanwhile, coinfection may result in complications that make treatment more difficult. However, the molecular mechanisms underpinning the interaction between TB and COVID-19 are unclear. Accordingly, transcriptome analysis was used to detect the shared pathways and molecular biomarkers in TB and COVID-19, allowing us to determine the complex relationship between COVID-19 and TB. Two RNA-seq datasets (GSE114192 and GSE163151) from the Gene Expression Omnibus were used to find concerted differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between TB and COVID-19 to identify the common pathogenic mechanisms. A total of 124 common DEGs were detected and used to find shared pathways and drug targets. Several enterprising bioinformatics tools were applied to perform pathway analysis, enrichment analysis and networks analysis. Protein-protein interaction analysis and machine learning was used to identify hub genes (GAS6, OAS3 and PDCD1LG2) and datasets GSE171110, GSE54992 and GSE79362 were used for verification. The mechanism of protein-drug interactions may have reference value in the treatment of coinfection of COVID-19 and TB.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ze-Min Huang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510150, China
- Department of Clinical Medicine, The Third Clinical School of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, China
| | - Jia-Qi Kang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510150, China
- Department of Clinical Medicine, The First Clinical School of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, China
| | - Pei-Zhen Chen
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510150, China
- Department of Clinical Medicine, The Third Clinical School of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, China
| | - Lin-Fen Deng
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510150, China
- Department of Clinical Medicine, The Third Clinical School of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, China
| | - Jia-Xin Li
- Department of Clinical Medicine, The First Clinical School of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, China
| | - Ying-Xin He
- Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Jie Liang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510150, China
- Department of Clinical Medicine, The Third Clinical School of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, China
| | - Nan Huang
- Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Tian-Ye Luo
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510150, China
- Department of Clinical Medicine, The Third Clinical School of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, China
| | - Qi-Wen Lan
- Department of Clinical Medicine, The Second Clinical School of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, China
| | - Hao-Kai Chen
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510150, China
- Department of Clinical Medicine, The Third Clinical School of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, China
| | - Xu-Guang Guo
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510150, China.
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Diseases, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510150, China.
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory for Clinical Rapid Diagnosis and Early Warning of Infectious Diseases, King Med School of Laboratory Medicine, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510000, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Frangogiannis NG. The fate and role of the pericytes in myocardial diseases. Eur J Clin Invest 2024; 54:e14204. [PMID: 38586936 DOI: 10.1111/eci.14204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
The adult mammalian heart contains a large population of pericytes that play important roles in homeostasis and disease. In the normal heart, pericytes regulate microvascular permeability and flow. Myocardial diseases are associated with marked alterations in pericyte phenotype and function. This review manuscript discusses the role of pericytes in cardiac homeostasis and disease. Following myocardial infarction (MI), cardiac pericytes participate in all phases of cardiac repair. During the inflammatory phase, pericytes may secrete cytokines and chemokines and may regulate leukocyte trafficking, through formation of intercellular gaps that serve as exit points for inflammatory cells. Moreover, pericyte contraction induces microvascular constriction, contributing to the pathogenesis of 'no-reflow' in ischemia and reperfusion. During the proliferative phase, pericytes are activated by growth factors, such as transforming growth factor (TGF)-β and contribute to fibrosis, predominantly through secretion of fibrogenic mediators. A fraction of pericytes acquires fibroblast identity but contributes only to a small percentage of infarct fibroblasts and myofibroblasts. As the scar matures, pericytes form a coat around infarct neovessels, promoting stabilization of the vasculature. Pericytes may also be involved in the pathogenesis of chronic heart failure, by regulating inflammation, fibrosis, angiogenesis and myocardial perfusion. Pericytes are also important targets of viral infections (such as SARS-CoV2) and may be implicated in the pathogenesis of cardiac complications of COVID19. Considering their role in myocardial inflammation, fibrosis and angiogenesis, pericytes may be promising therapeutic targets in myocardial disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaos G Frangogiannis
- Department of Medicine (Cardiology), The Wilf Family Cardiovascular Research Institute, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Schmidt K, Schmidt A, Groß S, Just A, Pfanne A, Fuchs M, Jordan M, Mohr E, Pich A, Fiedler J, Thum T. SGLT2 inhibitors attenuate endothelial to mesenchymal transition and cardiac fibroblast activation. Sci Rep 2024; 14:16459. [PMID: 39013942 PMCID: PMC11252266 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-65410-9] [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: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Beneficial effects of sodium glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) in cardiovascular diseases have been extensively reported leading to the inclusion of these drugs in the treatment guidelines for heart failure. However, molecular actions especially on non-myocyte cells remain uncertain. We observed dose-dependent inhibitory effects of two SGLT2is, dapagliflozin (DAPA) and empagliflozin (EMPA), on inflammatory signaling in human umbilical vein endothelial cells. Proteomic analyses and subsequent enrichment analyses discovered profound effects of these SGLT2is on proteins involved in mitochondrial respiration and actin cytoskeleton. Validation in functional oxygen consumption measurements as well as tube formation and migration assays revealed strong impacts of DAPA. Considering that most influenced parameters played central roles in endothelial to mesenchymal transition (EndMT), we performed in vitro EndMT assays and identified substantial reduction of mesenchymal and fibrosis marker expression as well as changes in cellular morphology upon treatment with SGLT2is. In line, human cardiac fibroblasts exposed to DAPA showed less proliferation, reduced ATP production, and decelerated migration capacity while less extensive impacts were observed upon EMPA. Mechanistically, sodium proton exchanger 1 (NHE1) as well as sodium-myoinositol cotransporter (SMIT) and sodium-multivitamin cotransporter (SMVT) could be identified as relevant targets of SGLT2is in non-myocyte cardiovascular cells as validated by individual siRNA-knockdown experiments. In summary, we found comprehensive beneficial effects of SGLT2is on human endothelial cells and cardiac fibroblasts. The results of this study therefore support a distinct effect of selected SGLT2i on non-myocyte cardiovascular cells and grant further insights into potential molecular mode of action of these drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Schmidt
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Therapeutic Strategies (IMTTS), Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
- Fraunhofer Institute for Toxicology and Experimental Medicine ITEM, Hannover, Germany
- Fraunhofer Cluster of Excellence Immune-Mediated Diseases (CIMD), Hannover, Germany
| | - Arne Schmidt
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Therapeutic Strategies (IMTTS), Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
- Fraunhofer Institute for Toxicology and Experimental Medicine ITEM, Hannover, Germany
- Fraunhofer Cluster of Excellence Immune-Mediated Diseases (CIMD), Hannover, Germany
| | - Sonja Groß
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Therapeutic Strategies (IMTTS), Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Annette Just
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Therapeutic Strategies (IMTTS), Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Angelika Pfanne
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Therapeutic Strategies (IMTTS), Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Maximilian Fuchs
- Fraunhofer Institute for Toxicology and Experimental Medicine ITEM, Hannover, Germany
- Fraunhofer Cluster of Excellence Immune-Mediated Diseases (CIMD), Hannover, Germany
| | - Maria Jordan
- Fraunhofer Institute for Toxicology and Experimental Medicine ITEM, Hannover, Germany
- Fraunhofer Cluster of Excellence Immune-Mediated Diseases (CIMD), Hannover, Germany
| | - Elisa Mohr
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Therapeutic Strategies (IMTTS), Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Andreas Pich
- Institute of Toxicology and Core Unit Proteomics, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Jan Fiedler
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Therapeutic Strategies (IMTTS), Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany.
- Fraunhofer Institute for Toxicology and Experimental Medicine ITEM, Hannover, Germany.
- Fraunhofer Cluster of Excellence Immune-Mediated Diseases (CIMD), Hannover, Germany.
| | - Thomas Thum
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Therapeutic Strategies (IMTTS), Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Wong D, Martinez J, Quijada P. Exploring the Function of Epicardial Cells Beyond the Surface. Circ Res 2024; 135:353-371. [PMID: 38963865 PMCID: PMC11225799 DOI: 10.1161/circresaha.124.321567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/06/2024]
Abstract
The epicardium, previously viewed as a passive outer layer around the heart, is now recognized as an essential component in development, regeneration, and repair. In this review, we explore the cellular and molecular makeup of the epicardium, highlighting its roles in heart regeneration and repair in zebrafish and salamanders, as well as its activation in young and adult postnatal mammals. We also examine the latest technologies used to study the function of epicardial cells for therapeutic interventions. Analysis of highly regenerative animal models shows that the epicardium is essential in regulating cardiomyocyte proliferation, transient fibrosis, and neovascularization. However, despite the epicardium's unique cellular programs to resolve cardiac damage, it remains unclear how to replicate these processes in nonregenerative mammalian organisms. During myocardial infarction, epicardial cells secrete signaling factors that modulate fibrotic, vascular, and inflammatory remodeling, which differentially enhance or inhibit cardiac repair. Recent transcriptomic studies have validated the cellular and molecular heterogeneity of the epicardium across various species and developmental stages, shedding further light on its function under pathological conditions. These studies have also provided insights into the function of regulatory epicardial-derived signaling molecules in various diseases, which could lead to new therapies and advances in reparative cardiovascular medicine. Moreover, insights gained from investigating epicardial cell function have initiated the development of novel techniques, including using human pluripotent stem cells and cardiac organoids to model reparative processes within the cardiovascular system. This growing understanding of epicardial function holds the potential for developing innovative therapeutic strategies aimed at addressing developmental heart disorders, enhancing regenerative therapies, and mitigating cardiovascular disease progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David Wong
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90029
- Molecular, Cellular and Integrative Physiology Graduate Program, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90029
| | - Julie Martinez
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90029
- Molecular, Cellular and Integrative Physiology Graduate Program, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90029
| | - Pearl Quijada
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90029
- Eli and Edythe Broad Stem Research Center, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90029
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90029
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
McClendon LK, Lanz RB, Panigrahi A, Gomez K, Bolt MJ, Liu M, Stossi F, Mancini MA, Dacso CC, Lonard DM, O'Malley BW. Transcriptional coactivation of NRF2 signaling in cardiac fibroblasts promotes resistance to oxidative stress. J Mol Cell Cardiol 2024; 194:70-84. [PMID: 38969334 DOI: 10.1016/j.yjmcc.2024.07.001] [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: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 06/17/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/07/2024]
Abstract
We recently discovered that steroid receptor coactivators (SRCs) SRCs-1, 2 and 3, are abundantly expressed in cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) and their activation with the SRC small molecule stimulator MCB-613 improves cardiac function and dramatically lowers pro-fibrotic signaling in CFs post-myocardial infarction. These findings suggest that CF-derived SRC activation could be beneficial in the mitigation of chronic heart failure after ischemic insult. However, the cardioprotective mechanisms by which CFs contribute to cardiac pathological remodeling are unclear. Here we present studies designed to identify the molecular and cellular circuitry that governs the anti-fibrotic effects of an MCB-613 derivative, MCB-613-10-1, in CFs. We performed cytokine profiling and whole transcriptome and proteome analyses of CF-derived signals in response to MCB-613-10-1. We identified the NRF2 pathway as a direct MCB-613-10-1 therapeutic target for promoting resistance to oxidative stress in CFs. We show that MCB-613-10-1 promotes cell survival of anti-fibrotic CFs exposed to oxidative stress by suppressing apoptosis. We demonstrate that an increase in HMOX1 expression contributes to CF resistance to oxidative stress-mediated apoptosis via a mechanism involving SRC co-activation of NRF2, hence reducing inflammation and fibrosis. We provide evidence that MCB-613-10-1 acts as a protectant against oxidative stress-induced mitochondrial damage. Our data reveal that SRC stimulation of the NRF2 transcriptional network promotes resistance to oxidative stress and highlights a mechanistic approach toward addressing pathologic cardiac remodeling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lisa K McClendon
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, United States of America.
| | - Rainer B Lanz
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, United States of America.
| | - Anil Panigrahi
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, United States of America.
| | - Kristan Gomez
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, United States of America.
| | - Michael J Bolt
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, United States of America.
| | - Min Liu
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, United States of America.
| | - Fabio Stossi
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, United States of America.
| | - Michael A Mancini
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, United States of America.
| | - Clifford C Dacso
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, United States of America.
| | - David M Lonard
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, United States of America.
| | - Bert W O'Malley
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, United States of America.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Ramos-Regalado L, Alcover S, Badimon L, Vilahur G. The Influence of Metabolic Risk Factors on the Inflammatory Response Triggered by Myocardial Infarction: Bridging Pathophysiology to Treatment. Cells 2024; 13:1125. [PMID: 38994977 PMCID: PMC11240659 DOI: 10.3390/cells13131125] [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: 05/13/2024] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Myocardial infarction (MI) sets off a complex inflammatory cascade that is crucial for effective cardiac healing and scar formation. Yet, if this response becomes excessive or uncontrolled, it can lead to cardiovascular complications. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the tightly regulated local inflammatory response triggered in the early post-MI phase involving cardiomyocytes, (myo)fibroblasts, endothelial cells, and infiltrating immune cells. Next, we explore how the bone marrow and extramedullary hematopoiesis (such as in the spleen) contribute to sustaining immune cell supply at a cardiac level. Lastly, we discuss recent findings on how metabolic cardiovascular risk factors, including hypercholesterolemia, hypertriglyceridemia, diabetes, and hypertension, disrupt this immunological response and explore the potential modulatory effects of lifestyle habits and pharmacological interventions. Understanding how different metabolic risk factors influence the inflammatory response triggered by MI and unraveling the underlying molecular and cellular mechanisms may pave the way for developing personalized therapeutic approaches based on the patient's metabolic profile. Similarly, delving deeper into the impact of lifestyle modifications on the inflammatory response post-MI is crucial. These insights may enable the adoption of more effective strategies to manage post-MI inflammation and improve cardiovascular health outcomes in a holistic manner.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lisaidy Ramos-Regalado
- Research Institute, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, IIB-Sant Pau, 08025 Barcelona, Spain (S.A.)
- Faculty of Biology, Universitat de Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sebastià Alcover
- Research Institute, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, IIB-Sant Pau, 08025 Barcelona, Spain (S.A.)
- Faculty of Biology, Universitat de Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Lina Badimon
- Research Institute, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, IIB-Sant Pau, 08025 Barcelona, Spain (S.A.)
- Ciber CV, Institute Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Cardiovascular Research Chair, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), 08193 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Gemma Vilahur
- Research Institute, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, IIB-Sant Pau, 08025 Barcelona, Spain (S.A.)
- Ciber CV, Institute Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Patrick R, Janbandhu V, Tallapragada V, Tan SSM, McKinna EE, Contreras O, Ghazanfar S, Humphreys DT, Murray NJ, Tran YTH, Hume RD, Chong JJH, Harvey RP. Integration mapping of cardiac fibroblast single-cell transcriptomes elucidates cellular principles of fibrosis in diverse pathologies. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2024; 10:eadk8501. [PMID: 38905342 PMCID: PMC11192082 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adk8501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024]
Abstract
Single-cell technology has allowed researchers to probe tissue complexity and dynamics at unprecedented depth in health and disease. However, the generation of high-dimensionality single-cell atlases and virtual three-dimensional tissues requires integrated reference maps that harmonize disparate experimental designs, analytical pipelines, and taxonomies. Here, we present a comprehensive single-cell transcriptome integration map of cardiac fibrosis, which underpins pathophysiology in most cardiovascular diseases. Our findings reveal similarity between cardiac fibroblast (CF) identities and dynamics in ischemic versus pressure overload models of cardiomyopathy. We also describe timelines for commitment of activated CFs to proliferation and myofibrogenesis, profibrotic and antifibrotic polarization of myofibroblasts and matrifibrocytes, and CF conservation across mouse and human healthy and diseased hearts. These insights have the potential to inform knowledge-based therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ralph Patrick
- Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW 2052, Australia
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Vaibhao Janbandhu
- Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW 2052, Australia
| | | | - Shannon S. M. Tan
- Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Emily E. McKinna
- Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia
- Westmead Institute for Medical Research, The University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Osvaldo Contreras
- Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Shila Ghazanfar
- School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia
- Charles Perkins Centre, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia
- Sydney Precision Data Science Centre, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - David T. Humphreys
- Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Nicholas J. Murray
- Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Yen T. H. Tran
- Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Robert D. Hume
- Westmead Institute for Medical Research, The University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
- School of Medical Science, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia
- Centre for Heart Failure and Diseases of the Aorta, The Baird Institute, Sydney, NSW 2042, Australia
| | - James J. H. Chong
- Westmead Institute for Medical Research, The University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
- Department of Cardiology, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Richard P. Harvey
- Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW 2052, Australia
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Science, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW 2052, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Yang S, Pei L, Huang Z, Zhong Y, Li J, Hong Y, Long H, Chen X, Zhou C, Zheng G, Zeng C, Wu H, Wang T. Inhibition of tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase 5 can prevent cardiac fibrosis after myocardial infarction. Mol Med 2024; 30:89. [PMID: 38879488 PMCID: PMC11179352 DOI: 10.1186/s10020-024-00856-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 06/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Myocardial infarction (MI) leads to enhanced activity of cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) and abnormal deposition of extracellular matrix proteins, resulting in cardiac fibrosis. Tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase 5 (ACP5) has been shown to promote cell proliferation and phenotypic transition. However, it remains unclear whether ACP5 is involved in the development of cardiac fibrosis after MI. The present study aimed to investigate the role of ACP5 in post-MI fibrosis and its potential underlying mechanisms. METHODS Clinical blood samples were collected to detect ACP5 concentration. Myocardial fibrosis was induced by ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery. The ACP5 inhibitor, AubipyOMe, was administered by intraperitoneal injection. Cardiac function and morphological changes were observed on Day 28 after injury. Cardiac CFs from neonatal mice were extracted to elucidate the underlying mechanism in vitro. The expression of ACP5 was silenced by small interfering RNA (siRNA) and overexpressed by adeno-associated viruses to evaluate its effect on CF activation. RESULTS The expression of ACP5 was increased in patients with MI, mice with MI, and mice with Ang II-induced fibrosis in vitro. AubipyOMe inhibited cardiac fibrosis and improved cardiac function in mice after MI. ACP5 inhibition reduced cell proliferation, migration, and phenotypic changes in CFs in vitro, while adenovirus-mediated ACP5 overexpression had the opposite effect. Mechanistically, the classical profibrotic pathway of glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK3β)/β-catenin was changed with ACP5 modulation, which indicated that ACP5 had a positive regulatory effect. Furthermore, the inhibitory effect of ACP5 deficiency on the GSK3β/β-catenin pathway was counteracted by an ERK activator, which indicated that ACP5 regulated GSK3β activity through ERK-mediated phosphorylation, thereby affecting β-catenin degradation. CONCLUSION ACP5 may influence the proliferation, migration, and phenotypic transition of CFs, leading to the development of myocardial fibrosis after MI through modulating the ERK/GSK3β/β-catenin signaling pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shujun Yang
- Department of Emergency, the Eighth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518003, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Liying Pei
- Department of Emergency, the Eighth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518003, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Zijie Huang
- Department of Emergency, the Eighth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518003, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Yinsheng Zhong
- Department of Emergency, the Eighth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518003, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Jun Li
- Department of Emergency, the Eighth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518003, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Yinghui Hong
- Department of Emergency, the Eighth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518003, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Huibao Long
- Department of Emergency, the Eighth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518003, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Xuxiang Chen
- Department of Emergency, the Eighth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518003, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Changqing Zhou
- Department of Emergency, the Eighth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518003, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Guanghui Zheng
- Department of Emergency, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Chaotao Zeng
- Department of Emergency, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Haidong Wu
- Department of Emergency, the Eighth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518003, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Tong Wang
- Department of Emergency, the Eighth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518003, Guangdong, P. R. China.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Ke D, Cao M, Ni J, Yuan Y, Deng J, Chen S, Dai X, Zhou H. Macrophage and fibroblast trajectory inference and crosstalk analysis during myocardial infarction using integrated single-cell transcriptomic datasets. J Transl Med 2024; 22:560. [PMID: 38867219 PMCID: PMC11167890 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-05353-x] [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: 02/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cardiac fibrosis after myocardial infarction (MI) has been considered an important part of cardiac pathological remodeling. Immune cells, especially macrophages, are thought to be involved in the process of fibrosis and constitute a niche with fibroblasts to promote fibrosis. However, the diversity and variability of fibroblasts and macrophages make it difficult to accurately depict interconnections. METHODS We collected and reanalyzed scRNA-seq and snRNA-seq datasets from 12 different studies. Differentiation trajectories of these subpopulations after MI injury were analyzed by using scVelo, PAGA and Slingshot. We used CellphoneDB and NicheNet to infer fibroblast-macrophage interactions. Tissue immunofluorescence staining and in vitro experiments were used to validate our findings. RESULTS We discovered two subsets of ECM-producing fibroblasts, reparative cardiac fibroblasts (RCFs) and matrifibrocytes, which appeared at different times after MI and exhibited different transcriptional profiles. We also observed that CTHRC1+ fibroblasts represent an activated fibroblast in chronic disease states. We identified a macrophage subset expressing the genes signature of SAMs conserved in both human and mouse hearts. Meanwhile, the SPP1hi macrophages were predominantly found in the early stages after MI, and cell communication analysis indicated that SPP1hi macrophage-RCFs interactions are mainly involved in collagen deposition and scar formation. CONCLUSIONS Overall, this study comprehensively analyzed the dynamics of fibroblast and macrophage subsets after MI and identified specific subsets of fibroblasts and macrophages involved in scar formation and collagen deposition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Da Ke
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Jiefang Road 238, Wuhan, 430060, People's Republic of China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Metabolic and Chronic Diseases, Wuhan, People's Republic of China
| | - Mingzhen Cao
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Jiefang Road 238, Wuhan, 430060, People's Republic of China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Metabolic and Chronic Diseases, Wuhan, People's Republic of China
| | - Jian Ni
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Jiefang Road 238, Wuhan, 430060, People's Republic of China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Metabolic and Chronic Diseases, Wuhan, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuan Yuan
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Jiefang Road 238, Wuhan, 430060, People's Republic of China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Metabolic and Chronic Diseases, Wuhan, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiangyang Deng
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Jiefang Road 238, Wuhan, 430060, People's Republic of China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Metabolic and Chronic Diseases, Wuhan, People's Republic of China
| | - Si Chen
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Metabolic and Chronic Diseases, Wuhan, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiujun Dai
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Metabolic and Chronic Diseases, Wuhan, People's Republic of China
| | - Heng Zhou
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Jiefang Road 238, Wuhan, 430060, People's Republic of China.
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Metabolic and Chronic Diseases, Wuhan, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Hilgendorf I, Frantz S, Frangogiannis NG. Repair of the Infarcted Heart: Cellular Effectors, Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Opportunities. Circ Res 2024; 134:1718-1751. [PMID: 38843294 PMCID: PMC11164543 DOI: 10.1161/circresaha.124.323658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
The adult mammalian heart has limited endogenous regenerative capacity and heals through the activation of inflammatory and fibrogenic cascades that ultimately result in the formation of a scar. After infarction, massive cardiomyocyte death releases a broad range of damage-associated molecular patterns that initiate both myocardial and systemic inflammatory responses. TLRs (toll-like receptors) and NLRs (NOD-like receptors) recognize damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) and transduce downstream proinflammatory signals, leading to upregulation of cytokines (such as interleukin-1, TNF-α [tumor necrosis factor-α], and interleukin-6) and chemokines (such as CCL2 [CC chemokine ligand 2]) and recruitment of neutrophils, monocytes, and lymphocytes. Expansion and diversification of cardiac macrophages in the infarcted heart play a major role in the clearance of the infarct from dead cells and the subsequent stimulation of reparative pathways. Efferocytosis triggers the induction and release of anti-inflammatory mediators that restrain the inflammatory reaction and set the stage for the activation of reparative fibroblasts and vascular cells. Growth factor-mediated pathways, neurohumoral cascades, and matricellular proteins deposited in the provisional matrix stimulate fibroblast activation and proliferation and myofibroblast conversion. Deposition of a well-organized collagen-based extracellular matrix network protects the heart from catastrophic rupture and attenuates ventricular dilation. Scar maturation requires stimulation of endogenous signals that inhibit fibroblast activity and prevent excessive fibrosis. Moreover, in the mature scar, infarct neovessels acquire a mural cell coat that contributes to the stabilization of the microvascular network. Excessive, prolonged, or dysregulated inflammatory or fibrogenic cascades accentuate adverse remodeling and dysfunction. Moreover, inflammatory leukocytes and fibroblasts can contribute to arrhythmogenesis. Inflammatory and fibrogenic pathways may be promising therapeutic targets to attenuate heart failure progression and inhibit arrhythmia generation in patients surviving myocardial infarction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ingo Hilgendorf
- Department of Cardiology and Angiology, University Heart Center Freiburg-Bad Krozingen and Faculty of Medicine at the University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Stefan Frantz
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik I, Universitätsklinikum Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Nikolaos G Frangogiannis
- The Wilf Family Cardiovascular Research Institute, Department of Medicine (Cardiology), Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx NY
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Patil M, Singh S, Dubey PK, Tousif S, Umbarkar P, Zhang Q, Lal H, Sewell-Loftin MK, Umeshappa CS, Ghebre YT, Pogwizd S, Zhang J, Krishnamurthy P. Fibroblast-Specific Depletion of Human Antigen R Alleviates Myocardial Fibrosis Induced by Cardiac Stress. JACC Basic Transl Sci 2024; 9:754-770. [PMID: 39070272 PMCID: PMC11282885 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacbts.2024.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
Cardiac fibrosis can be mitigated by limiting fibroblast-to-myofibroblast differentiation and proliferation. Human antigen R (HuR) modulates messenger RNA stability and expression of multiple genes. However, the direct role of cardiac myofibroblast HuR is unknown. Myofibroblast-specific deletion of HuR limited cardiac fibrosis and preserved cardiac functions in pressure overload injury. Knockdown of HuR in transforming growth factor-β1-treated cardiac fibroblasts suppressed myofibroblast differentiation and proliferation. HuR deletion abrogated the expression and messenger RNA stability of cyclins D1 and A2, suggesting a potential mechanism by which HuR promotes myofibroblast proliferation. Overall, these data suggest that inhibition of HuR could be a potential therapeutic approach to limit cardiac fibrosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mallikarjun Patil
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Heersink School of Medicine and School of Engineering, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Sarojini Singh
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Heersink School of Medicine and School of Engineering, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Praveen Kumar Dubey
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Heersink School of Medicine and School of Engineering, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Sultan Tousif
- Division of Cardiovascular Disease, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Prachi Umbarkar
- Division of Cardiovascular Disease, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Qinkun Zhang
- Division of Cardiovascular Disease, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Hind Lal
- Division of Cardiovascular Disease, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Mary Kathryn Sewell-Loftin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Heersink School of Medicine and School of Engineering, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | | | - Yohannes T. Ghebre
- Department of Radiation Oncology, the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Steven Pogwizd
- Comprehensive Cardiovascular Center, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Jianyi Zhang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Heersink School of Medicine and School of Engineering, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Prasanna Krishnamurthy
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Heersink School of Medicine and School of Engineering, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Huyan Y, Chen X, Chang Y, Hua X, Fan X, Shan D, Xu Z, Tao M, Zhang H, Liu S, Song J. Single-Cell Transcriptomic Analysis Reveals Myocardial Fibrosis Mechanism of Doxorubicin-Induced Cardiotoxicity. Int Heart J 2024; 65:487-497. [PMID: 38749755 DOI: 10.1536/ihj.23-302] [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] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
Myocardial fibrosis is a pathological feature of doxorubicin-induced chronic cardiotoxicity that severely affects the prognosis of oncology patients. However, the specific cellular and molecular mediators driving doxorubicin-induced cardiac fibrosis, and the relative impact of different cell populations on cardiac fibrosis, remain unclear.This study aimed to explore the mechanism of doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity and myocardial fibrosis and to find potential therapeutic targets. Single-cell RNA sequencing was used to analyze the transcriptome of non-cardiomyocytes from normal and doxorubicin-induced chronic cardiotoxicity in mouse model heart tissue.We established a mouse model of doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity with a well-defined fibrotic phenotype. Analysis of single-cell sequencing results showed that fibroblasts were the major origin of extracellular matrix in doxorubicin-induced myocardial fibrosis. Further resolution of fibroblast subclusters showed that resting fibroblasts were converted to matrifibrocytes and then to myofibroblasts to participate in the myocardial remodeling process in response to doxorubicin treatment. Ctsb expression was significantly upregulated in fibroblasts after doxorubicin-induced.This study provides a comprehensive map of the non-cardiomyocyte landscape at high resolution, reveals multiple cell populations contributing to pathological remodeling of the cardiac extracellular matrix, and identifies major cellular sources of myofibroblasts and dynamic gene-expression changes in fibroblast activation. Finally, we used this strategy to detect potential therapeutic targets and identified Ctsb as a specific target for fibroblasts in doxorubicin-induced myocardial fibrosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yige Huyan
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College
| | - Xiao Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College
| | - Yuan Chang
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College
| | - Xiumeng Hua
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College
| | - Xuexin Fan
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College
| | - Dan Shan
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College
| | - Zhenyu Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College
| | - Menghao Tao
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College
| | - Hang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College
| | - Sheng Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College
| | - Jiangping Song
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Aguado-Alvaro LP, Garitano N, Pelacho B. Fibroblast Diversity and Epigenetic Regulation in Cardiac Fibrosis. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6004. [PMID: 38892192 PMCID: PMC11172550 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25116004] [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: 05/06/2024] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Cardiac fibrosis, a process characterized by excessive extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition, is a common pathological consequence of many cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) normally resulting in organ failure and death. Cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) play an essential role in deleterious cardiac remodeling and dysfunction. In response to injury, quiescent CFs become activated and adopt a collagen-secreting phenotype highly contributing to cardiac fibrosis. In recent years, studies have been focused on the exploration of molecular and cellular mechanisms implicated in the activation process of CFs, which allow the development of novel therapeutic approaches for the treatment of cardiac fibrosis. Transcriptomic analyses using single-cell RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) have helped to elucidate the high cellular diversity and complex intercellular communication networks that CFs establish in the mammalian heart. Furthermore, a significant body of work supports the critical role of epigenetic regulation on the expression of genes involved in the pathogenesis of cardiac fibrosis. The study of epigenetic mechanisms, including DNA methylation, histone modification, and chromatin remodeling, has provided more insights into CF activation and fibrotic processes. Targeting epigenetic regulators, especially DNA methyltransferases (DNMT), histone acetylases (HAT), or histone deacetylases (HDAC), has emerged as a promising approach for the development of novel anti-fibrotic therapies. This review focuses on recent transcriptomic advances regarding CF diversity and molecular and epigenetic mechanisms that modulate the activation process of CFs and their possible clinical applications for the treatment of cardiac fibrosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Pilar Aguado-Alvaro
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; (L.P.A.-A.); (N.G.)
- Program of Cardiovascular Disease, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdiSNA), 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Nerea Garitano
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; (L.P.A.-A.); (N.G.)
- Program of Cardiovascular Disease, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdiSNA), 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Beatriz Pelacho
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; (L.P.A.-A.); (N.G.)
- Program of Cardiovascular Disease, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdiSNA), 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Bongiovanni C, Bueno-Levy H, Posadas Pena D, Del Bono I, Miano C, Boriati S, Da Pra S, Sacchi F, Redaelli S, Bergen M, Romaniello D, Pontis F, Tassinari R, Kellerer L, Petraroia I, Mazzeschi M, Lauriola M, Ventura C, Heermann S, Weidinger G, Tzahor E, D'Uva G. BMP7 promotes cardiomyocyte regeneration in zebrafish and adult mice. Cell Rep 2024; 43:114162. [PMID: 38678558 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.114162] [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: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Zebrafish have a lifelong cardiac regenerative ability after damage, whereas mammals lose this capacity during early postnatal development. This study investigated whether the declining expression of growth factors during postnatal mammalian development contributes to the decrease of cardiomyocyte regenerative potential. Besides confirming the proliferative ability of neuregulin 1 (NRG1), interleukin (IL)1b, receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-Β ligand (RANKL), insulin growth factor (IGF)2, and IL6, we identified other potential pro-regenerative factors, with BMP7 exhibiting the most pronounced efficacy. Bmp7 knockdown in neonatal mouse cardiomyocytes and loss-of-function in adult zebrafish during cardiac regeneration reduced cardiomyocyte proliferation, indicating that Bmp7 is crucial in the regenerative stages of mouse and zebrafish hearts. Conversely, bmp7 overexpression in regenerating zebrafish or administration at post-mitotic juvenile and adult mouse stages, in vitro and in vivo following myocardial infarction, enhanced cardiomyocyte cycling. Mechanistically, BMP7 stimulated proliferation through BMPR1A/ACVR1 and ACVR2A/BMPR2 receptors and downstream SMAD5, ERK, and AKT signaling. Overall, BMP7 administration is a promising strategy for heart regeneration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Bongiovanni
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, via Massarenti 9, 40138 Bologna, Italy; Centre for Applied Biomedical Research (CRBA), University of Bologna, via Massarenti 9, 40138 Bologna, Italy; National Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Stem Cell Engineering, National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems (INBB), via di Corticella 183, 40128 Bologna, Italy
| | - Hanna Bueno-Levy
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Herzl St. 234, Rehovot 76100, Israel
| | - Denise Posadas Pena
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Ulm University, Albert-Einstein-Allee 11, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | - Irene Del Bono
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, via Massarenti 9, 40138 Bologna, Italy; Centre for Applied Biomedical Research (CRBA), University of Bologna, via Massarenti 9, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Carmen Miano
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, via Massarenti 9, 40138 Bologna, Italy; Centre for Applied Biomedical Research (CRBA), University of Bologna, via Massarenti 9, 40138 Bologna, Italy; National Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Stem Cell Engineering, National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems (INBB), via di Corticella 183, 40128 Bologna, Italy
| | - Stefano Boriati
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, via Massarenti 9, 40138 Bologna, Italy; Centre for Applied Biomedical Research (CRBA), University of Bologna, via Massarenti 9, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Silvia Da Pra
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, via Massarenti 9, 40138 Bologna, Italy; Centre for Applied Biomedical Research (CRBA), University of Bologna, via Massarenti 9, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Francesca Sacchi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, via Massarenti 9, 40138 Bologna, Italy; Centre for Applied Biomedical Research (CRBA), University of Bologna, via Massarenti 9, 40138 Bologna, Italy; National Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Stem Cell Engineering, National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems (INBB), via di Corticella 183, 40128 Bologna, Italy
| | - Simone Redaelli
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Ulm University, Albert-Einstein-Allee 11, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | - Max Bergen
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Albertstrasse 17, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Donatella Romaniello
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, via Massarenti 9, 40138 Bologna, Italy; Centre for Applied Biomedical Research (CRBA), University of Bologna, via Massarenti 9, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Francesca Pontis
- Scientific and Technological Pole, IRCCS MultiMedica, via Fantoli 16/15, 20138 Milan, Italy
| | | | - Laura Kellerer
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Ulm University, Albert-Einstein-Allee 11, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | - Ilaria Petraroia
- Scientific and Technological Pole, IRCCS MultiMedica, via Fantoli 16/15, 20138 Milan, Italy
| | - Martina Mazzeschi
- IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, via Massarenti 9, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Mattia Lauriola
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, via Massarenti 9, 40138 Bologna, Italy; Centre for Applied Biomedical Research (CRBA), University of Bologna, via Massarenti 9, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Carlo Ventura
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, via Massarenti 9, 40138 Bologna, Italy; National Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Stem Cell Engineering, National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems (INBB), via di Corticella 183, 40128 Bologna, Italy
| | - Stephan Heermann
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Albertstrasse 17, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Gilbert Weidinger
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Ulm University, Albert-Einstein-Allee 11, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | - Eldad Tzahor
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Herzl St. 234, Rehovot 76100, Israel
| | - Gabriele D'Uva
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, via Massarenti 9, 40138 Bologna, Italy; IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, via Massarenti 9, 40138 Bologna, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Butler K, Ahmed S, Jablonski J, Hookway TA. Engineered Cardiac Microtissue Biomanufacturing Using Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell Derived Epicardial Cells. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.13.593960. [PMID: 38798424 PMCID: PMC11118268 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.13.593960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Epicardial cells are a crucial component in constructing in vitro 3D tissue models of the human heart, contributing to the ECM environment and the resident mesenchymal cell population. Studying the human epicardium and its development from the proepicardial organ is difficult, but induced pluripotent stem cells can provide a source of human epicardial cells for developmental modeling and for biomanufacturing heterotypic cardiac tissues. This study shows that a robust population of epicardial cells (approx. 87.7% WT1+) can be obtained by small molecule modulation of the Wnt signaling pathway. The population maintains WT1 expression and characteristic epithelial morphology over successive passaging, but increases in size and decreases in cell number, suggesting a limit to their expandability in vitro. Further, low passage number epicardial cells formed into more robust 3D microtissues compared to their higher passage counterparts, suggesting that the ideal time frame for use of these epicardial cells for tissue engineering and modeling purposes is early on in their differentiated state. Additionally, the differentiated epicardial cells displayed two distinct morphologic sub populations with a subset of larger, more migratory cells which led expansion of the epicardial cells across various extracellular matrix environments. When incorporated into a mixed 3D co-culture with cardiomyocytes, epicardial cells promoted greater remodeling and migration without impairing cardiomyocyte function. This study provides an important characterization of stem cell-derived epicardial cells, identifying key characteristics that influence their ability to fabricate consistent engineered cardiac tissues.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kirk Butler
- Biomedical Engineering Department, Binghamton University, the State University of New York, Binghamton NY 13902
| | - Saif Ahmed
- Biomedical Engineering Department, Binghamton University, the State University of New York, Binghamton NY 13902
| | - Justin Jablonski
- Biomedical Engineering Department, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY14627
| | - Tracy A. Hookway
- Biomedical Engineering Department, Binghamton University, the State University of New York, Binghamton NY 13902
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Torimoto K, Elliott K, Nakayama Y, Yanagisawa H, Eguchi S. Cardiac and perivascular myofibroblasts, matrifibrocytes, and immune fibrocytes in hypertension; commonalities and differences with other cardiovascular diseases. Cardiovasc Res 2024; 120:567-580. [PMID: 38395029 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvae044] [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: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Hypertension is a major cause of cardiovascular diseases such as myocardial infarction and stroke. Cardiovascular fibrosis occurs with hypertension and contributes to vascular resistance, aortic stiffness, and cardiac hypertrophy. However, the molecular mechanisms leading to fibroblast activation in hypertension remain largely unknown. There are two types of fibrosis: replacement fibrosis and reactive fibrosis. Replacement fibrosis occurs in response to the loss of viable tissue to form a scar. Reactive fibrosis occurs in response to an increase in mechanical and neurohormonal stress. Although both types of fibrosis are considered adaptive processes, they become maladaptive when the tissue loss is too large, or the stress persists. Myofibroblasts represent a subpopulation of activated fibroblasts that have gained contractile function to promote wound healing. Therefore, myofibroblasts are a critical cell type that promotes replacement fibrosis. Although myofibroblasts were recognized as the fibroblasts participating in reactive fibrosis, recent experimental evidence indicated there are distinct fibroblast populations in cardiovascular reactive fibrosis. Accordingly, we will discuss the updated definition of fibroblast subpopulations, the regulatory mechanisms, and their potential roles in cardiovascular pathophysiology utilizing new knowledge from various lineage tracing and single-cell RNA sequencing studies. Among the fibroblast subpopulations, we will highlight the novel roles of matrifibrocytes and immune fibrocytes in cardiovascular fibrosis including experimental models of hypertension, pressure overload, myocardial infarction, atherosclerosis, aortic aneurysm, and nephrosclerosis. Exploration into the molecular mechanisms involved in the differentiation and activation of those fibroblast subpopulations may lead to novel treatments for end-organ damage associated with hypertension and other cardiovascular diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Keiichi Torimoto
- Department of Cardiovascular Science, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Katherine Elliott
- Department of Cardiovascular Science, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Sol Sherry Thrombosis Research Center, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Yuki Nakayama
- Department of Cardiovascular Science, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Sol Sherry Thrombosis Research Center, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Hiromi Yanagisawa
- Life Science Center for Survival Dynamics, Tsukuba Advanced Research Alliance (TARA), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Satoru Eguchi
- Department of Cardiovascular Science, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Sol Sherry Thrombosis Research Center, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
McNamara JW, Song T, Alam P, Binek A, Singh RR, Nieman ML, Koch SE, Ivey MJ, Lynch TL, Rubinstein J, Jin JP, Lorenz JN, Van Eyk JE, Kanisicak O, Sadayappan S. Fast skeletal myosin binding protein-C expression exacerbates dysfunction in heart failure. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.04.30.591979. [PMID: 38746225 PMCID: PMC11092637 DOI: 10.1101/2024.04.30.591979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
During heart failure, gene and protein expression profiles undergo extensive compensatory and pathological remodeling. We previously observed that fast skeletal myosin binding protein-C (fMyBP-C) is upregulated in diseased mouse hearts. While fMyBP-C shares significant homology with its cardiac paralog, cardiac myosin binding protein-C (cMyBP-C), there are key differences that may affect cardiac function. However, it is unknown if the expression of fMyBP-C expression in the heart is a pathological or compensatory response. We aim to elucidate the cardiac consequence of either increased or knockout of fMyBP-C expression. To determine the sufficiency of fMyBP-C to cause cardiac dysfunction, we generated cardiac-specific fMyBP-C over-expression mice. These mice were further crossed into a cMyBP-C null model to assess the effect of fMyBP-C in the heart in the complete absence of cMyBP-C. Finally, fMyBP-C null mice underwent transverse aortic constriction (TAC) to define the requirement of fMyBP-C during heart failure development. We confirmed the upregulation of fMyBP-C in several models of cardiac disease, including the use of lineage tracing. Low levels of fMyBP-C caused mild cardiac remodeling and sarcomere dysfunction. Exclusive expression of fMyBP-C in a heart failure model further exacerbated cardiac pathology. Following 8 weeks of TAC, fMyBP-C null mice demonstrated greater protection against heart failure development. Mechanistically, this may be due to the differential regulation of the myosin super-relaxed state. These findings suggest that the elevated expression of fMyBP-C in diseased hearts is a pathological response. Targeted therapies to prevent upregulation of fMyBP-C may prove beneficial in the treatment of heart failure. Significance Statement Recently, the sarcomere - the machinery that controls heart and muscle contraction - has emerged as a central target for development of cardiac therapeutics. However, there remains much to understand about how the sarcomere is modified in response to disease. We recently discovered that a protein normally expressed in skeletal muscle, is present in the heart in certain settings of heart disease. How this skeletal muscle protein affects the function of the heart remained unknown. Using genetically engineered mouse models to modulate expression of this skeletal muscle protein, we determined that expression of this skeletal muscle protein in the heart negatively affects cardiac performance. Importantly, deletion of this protein from the heart could improve heart function suggesting a possible therapeutic avenue.
Collapse
|
21
|
Alsereidi FR, Khashim Z, Marzook H, Gupta A, Al-Rawi AM, Ramadan MM, Saleh MA. Targeting inflammatory signaling pathways with SGLT2 inhibitors: Insights into cardiovascular health and cardiac cell improvement. Curr Probl Cardiol 2024; 49:102524. [PMID: 38492622 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpcardiol.2024.102524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors have attracted significant attention for their broader therapeutic impact beyond simply controlling blood sugar levels, particularly in their ability to influence inflammatory pathways. This review delves into the anti-inflammatory properties of SGLT2 inhibitors, with a specific focus on canagliflozin, empagliflozin, and dapagliflozin. One of the key mechanisms through which SGLT2 inhibitors exert their anti-inflammatory effects is by activating AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), a crucial regulator of both cellular energy balance and inflammation. Activation of AMPK by these inhibitors leads to the suppression of pro-inflammatory pathways and a decrease in inflammatory mediators. Notably, SGLT2 inhibitors have demonstrated the ability to inhibit the release of cytokines in an AMPK-dependent manner, underscoring their direct influence on inflammatory signaling. Beyond AMPK activation, SGLT2 inhibitors also modulate several other inflammatory pathways, including the NLRP3 inflammasome, expression of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR-4), and activation of NF-κB (Nuclear factor kappa B). This multifaceted approach contributes to their efficacy in reducing inflammation and managing associated complications in conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular disorders. Several human and animal studies provide support for the anti-inflammatory effects of SGLT2 inhibitors, demonstrating protective effects on various cardiac cells. Additionally, these inhibitors exhibit direct anti-inflammatory effects by modulating immune cells. Overall, SGLT2 inhibitors emerge as promising therapeutic agents for targeting inflammation in a range of pathological conditions. Further research, particularly focusing on the molecular-level pathways of inflammation, is necessary to fully understand their mechanisms of action and optimize their therapeutic potential in inflammatory diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fatmah R Alsereidi
- Cardiovascular Research Group, Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | - Zenith Khashim
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic Rochester, Rochester, MN, United States
| | - Hezlin Marzook
- Cardiovascular Research Group, Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | - Anamika Gupta
- Cardiovascular Research Group, Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ahmed M Al-Rawi
- Cardiovascular Research Group, Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mahmoud M Ramadan
- Cardiovascular Research Group, Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates; Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, 27272, United Arab Emirates; Department of Cardiology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, 35516 Egypt
| | - Mohamed A Saleh
- Cardiovascular Research Group, Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates; Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, 27272, United Arab Emirates; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura, 35516 Egypt.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Lai YJ, Chang SH, Tung YC, Chang GJ, Almeida CD, Chen WJ, Yeh YH, Tsai FC. Naringin activates semaphorin 3A to ameliorate TGF-β-induced endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition related to atrial fibrillation. J Cell Physiol 2024; 239:e31248. [PMID: 38501506 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.31248] [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: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 02/25/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
The loss of semaphorin 3A (Sema3A), which is related to endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) in atrial fibrosis, is implicated in the pathogenesis of atrial fibrillation (AF). To explore the mechanisms by which EndMT affects atrial fibrosis and assess the potential of a Sema3A activator (naringin) to prevent atrial fibrosis by targeting transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β)-induced EndMT, we used human atria, isolated human atrial endocardial endothelial cells (AEECs), and used transgenic mice expressing TGF-β specifically in cardiac tissues (TGF-β transgenic mice). We evaluated an EndMT marker (Twist), a proliferation marker (proliferating cell nuclear antigen; PCNA), and an endothelial cell (EC) marker (CD31) through triple immunohistochemistry and confirmed that both EndMT and EC proliferation contribute to atrial endocardial fibrosis during AF in TGF-β transgenic mice and AF patient tissue sections. Additionally, we investigated the impact of naringin on EndMT and EC proliferation in AEECs and atrial fibroblasts. Naringin exhibited an antiproliferative effect, to which AEECs were more responsive. Subsequently, we downregulated Sema3A in AEECs using small interfering RNA to clarify a correlation between the reduction in Sema3A and the elevation of EndMT markers. Naringin treatment induced the expression of Sema3A and a concurrent decrease in EndMT markers. Furthermore, naringin administration ameliorated AF and endocardial fibrosis in TGF-β transgenic mice by stimulating Sema3A expression, inhibiting EndMT markers, reducing atrial fibrosis, and lowering AF vulnerability. This suggests therapeutic potential for naringin in AF treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ying-Ju Lai
- Cardiovascular Department, Chang-Gung Memorial Hospital, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan
- Department of Respiratory Therapy, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan
- Department of Respiratory Care, Chang-Gung University of Science and Technology, Chia-Yi, Puzi, Taiwan
| | - Shang-Hung Chang
- Cardiovascular Department, Chang-Gung Memorial Hospital, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University Tao-Yuan, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan
| | - Ying-Chang Tung
- Cardiovascular Department, Chang-Gung Memorial Hospital, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University Tao-Yuan, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan
| | - Gwo-Jyh Chang
- Cardiovascular Department, Chang-Gung Memorial Hospital, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang-Gung University Tao-Yuan, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan
| | - Celina De Almeida
- Department of Respiratory Therapy, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang-Gung University Tao-Yuan, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Jan Chen
- Cardiovascular Department, Chang-Gung Memorial Hospital, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University Tao-Yuan, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan
| | - Yung-Hsin Yeh
- Cardiovascular Department, Chang-Gung Memorial Hospital, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University Tao-Yuan, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan
| | - Feng-Chun Tsai
- Department of Surgery, Division of Cardiovascular Surgery, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Guo W, Yang C, Zou J, Yu T, Li M, He R, Chen K, Hell RCR, Gross ER, Zou X, Lu Y. Interleukin-1β polarization in M1 macrophage mediates myocardial fibrosis in diabetes. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 131:111858. [PMID: 38492336 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.111858] [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: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diabetes is a global health problem whose common complication is diabetic cardiomyopathy, characterized by chronic inflammation of the heart muscle. Macrophages are the main white blood cells found in the resting heart. Therefore, we investigated the underling mechanism of macrophage on myocardial fibrosis in diabetes. METHODS Here, echocardiography was utilized to evaluate cardiac function, and the degree of myocardial fibrosis was assessed using Masson's trichrome staining, followed by single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) to analyze the phenotype, function, developmental trajectory, and interactions between immune cells, endothelial cells (ECs), and fibroblasts (FBs) in the hearts of db/db mice at different stages of diabetes. Macrophages and cardiac fibroblasts were also co-cultured in order to study the signaling between macrophages and fibroblasts. RESULTS We found that with the development of diabetes mellitus, myocardial hypertrophy and fibrosis occurred that was accompanied by cardiac dysfunction. A significant proportion of immune cells, endothelial cells, and fibroblasts were identified by RNA sequencing. The most significant changes observed were in macrophages, which undergo M1 polarization and are critical for oxidative stress and extracellular matrix (ECM) formation. We further found that M1 macrophages secreted interleukin-1β (IL-1β), which interacted with the receptor on the surface of fibroblasts, to cause myocardial fibrosis. In addition, crosstalk between M1 macrophages and endothelial cells also plays a key role in fibrosis and immune response regulation through IL-1β and corresponding receptors. CONCLUSIONS M1 macrophages mediate diabetic myocardial fibrosis through interleukin-1β interaction with fibroblasts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenli Guo
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230022, China
| | - Chen Yang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230022, China
| | - Jiawei Zou
- Institute of Clinical Science, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Tingting Yu
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230022, China
| | - Mingde Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230022, China
| | - Ruilin He
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230022, China
| | - Keyang Chen
- Department of Health Inspection and Quarantine, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Rafaela C R Hell
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, School of Medicine, Stanford University, 94305 CA, United States
| | - Eric R Gross
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, School of Medicine, Stanford University, 94305 CA, United States
| | - Xin Zou
- Jinshan Hospital Center for Tumor Diagnosis & Therapy, Jinshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 201508, China.
| | - Yao Lu
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230022, China; Ambulatory Surgery Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230022, China.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Wang Z, Yang M, Li S, Chi H, Wang J, Xiao C. [A transcriptomic analysis of correlation between mitochondrial function and energy metabolism remodeling in mice with myocardial fibrosis following myocardial infarction]. NAN FANG YI KE DA XUE XUE BAO = JOURNAL OF SOUTHERN MEDICAL UNIVERSITY 2024; 44:666-674. [PMID: 38708499 DOI: 10.12122/j.issn.1673-4254.2024.04.07] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the changes of mitochondrial respiratory function during myocardial fibrosis in mice with myocardial infarction (MI) and its correlation with the increase of glycolytic flux. METHODS Forty C57BL/6N mice were randomized into two equal groups to receive sham operation or ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery to induce acute MI. At 28 days after the operation, 5 mice from each group were euthanized and left ventricular tissue samples were collected for transcriptomic sequencing. FPKM method was used to calculate gene expression levels to identify the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in MI mice, which were analyzed using GO and KEGG databases to determine the pathways affecting the disease process. Heat maps were drawn to show the differential expressions of the pathways and the related genes in the enrichment analysis. In primary cultures of neonatal mouse cardiac fibroblasts (CFs), the changes in mitochondrial respiration and glycolysis levels in response to treatment with the pro-fibrotic agonist TGF-β1 were analyzed using Seahorse experiment. RESULTS The mouse models of MI showed significantly increased diastolic and systolic left ventricular diameter (P < 0.05) and decreased left ventricular ejection fraction (P < 0.0001). A total of 124 up-regulated and 106 down-regulated DEGs were identified in the myocardial tissues of MI mice, and GO and KEGG enrichment analysis showed that these DEGs were significantly enriched in fatty acid metabolism, organelles and other metabolic pathways and in the mitochondria. Heat maps revealed fatty acid beta oxidation, mitochondrial dysfunction and increased glycolysis levels in MI mice. In the primary culture of CFs, treatment with TGF-β1 significantly reduced the basal and maximum respiratory levels and increased the basal and maximum glycolysis levels (P < 0.0001). CONCLUSION During myocardial fibrosis, energy metabolism remodeling occurs in the CFs, manifested by lowered mitochondrial function and increased energy generation through glycolysis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Z Wang
- Chinese PLA Medical School, Beijing 100853, China
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Sixth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100037, China
| | - M Yang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Sixth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100037, China
| | - S Li
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, First Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100853, China
| | - H Chi
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Sixth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100037, China
| | - J Wang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Sixth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100037, China
| | - C Xiao
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Sixth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100037, China
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Harrington A, Moore-Morris T. Cardiac fibroblasts in heart failure and regeneration. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1388378. [PMID: 38699159 PMCID: PMC11063332 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1388378] [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: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
In heart disease patients, myocyte loss or malfunction invariably leads to fibrosis, involving the activation and accumulation of cardiac fibroblasts that deposit large amounts of extracellular matrix. Apart from the vital replacement fibrosis that follows myocardial infarction, ensuring structural integrity of the heart, cardiac fibrosis is largely considered to be maladaptive. Much work has focused on signaling pathways driving the fibrotic response, including TGF-β signaling and biomechanical strain. However, currently there are very limited options for reducing cardiac fibrosis, with most patients suffering from chronic fibrosis. The adult heart has very limited regenerative capacity. However, cardiac regeneration has been reported in humans perinatally, and reproduced experimentally in neonatal mice. Furthermore, model organisms such as the zebrafish are able to fully regenerate their hearts following massive cardiac damage into adulthood. Increasing evidence points to a transient immuno-fibrotic response as being key for cardiac regeneration to occur. The mechanisms at play in this context are changing our views on fibrosis, and could be leveraged to promote beneficial remodeling in heart failure patients. This review summarizes our current knowledge of fibroblast properties associated with the healthy, failing or regenerating heart. Furthermore, we explore how cardiac fibroblast activity could be targeted to assist future therapeutic approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Thomas Moore-Morris
- Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle, University of Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, Montpellier, France
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Goldsmith R, Tsan YC, Scissors R, Helms A, Brody M. In Vitro Assessment of Cardiac Fibroblast Activation at Physiologic Stiffness. Curr Protoc 2024; 4:e1025. [PMID: 38600839 PMCID: PMC11013569 DOI: 10.1002/cpz1.1025] [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] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
Cardiac fibroblasts (CF) are an essential cell type in cardiac physiology, playing diverse roles in maintaining structural integrity, extracellular matrix (ECM) synthesis, and tissue repair. Under normal conditions, these cells reside in the interstitium in a quiescent state poised to sense and respond to injury by synthesizing and secreting collagen, vimentin, hyaluronan, and other ECM components. In response to mechanical and chemical stimuli, these "resident" fibroblasts can undergo a transformation through a continuum of activation states into what is commonly known as a "myofibroblast," in a process critical for injury response. Despite progress in understanding the contribution of fibroblasts to cardiac health and disease, much remains unknown about the signaling mediating this activation, in part owing to technical challenges in evaluating CF function and activation status in vitro. Given their role in monitoring the ECM, CFs are acutely sensitive to stiffness and pressure. High basal activation of isolated CFs is common due to the super-physiologic stiffness of traditional cell culture substrates, making assays dependent on quiescent cells challenging. To overcome this problem, cell culture parameters must be tightly controlled, and the use of dishes coated with biocompatible reduced-stiffness substrates, such as 8-kPa polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), has shown promise in reducing basal activation of fibroblasts. Here, we describe cell culture protocol for maintaining CF quiescence in vitro to enable a dynamic range for the assessment of activation status in response to fibrogenic stimuli using PDMS-coated coverslips. Our protocol provides a cost-effective tool to study fibroblast signaling and activity, allowing researchers to better understand the underlying mechanisms involved in cardiac fibrosis. © 2024 The Authors. Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC. Basic Protocol 1: Generation of 8-kPa polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)/gelatin-coated coverslips for cardiac fibroblast cell culture Basic Protocol 2: Isolation of adult cardiac fibroblasts and plating onto PDMS coverslips Basic Protocol 3: Assessment of cardiac fibroblast activation by α smooth muscle actin (αSMA) immunocytochemistry.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R.S. Goldsmith
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States
| | - Y-C Tsan
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States
| | - R.E. Scissors
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States
| | - A.S. Helms
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States
| | - M.J. Brody
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Xie J, Lin H, Zuo A, Shao J, Sun W, Wang S, Song J, Yao W, Luo Y, Sun J, Wang M. The JMJD family of histone demethylase and their intimate links to cardiovascular disease. Cell Signal 2024; 116:111046. [PMID: 38242266 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2024.111046] [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: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
The incidence rate and mortality rate of cardiovascular disease rank first in the world. It is associated with various high-risk factors, and there is no single cause. Epigenetic modifications, such as DNA methylation or histone modification, actively participate in the initiation and development of cardiovascular diseases. Histone lysine methylation is a type of histone post-translational modification. The human Jumonji C domain (JMJD) protein family consists of more than 30 members. JMJD proteins participate in many key nuclear processes and play a key role in the specific regulation of gene expression, DNA damage and repair, and DNA replication. Importantly, increasing evidence shows that JMJD proteins are abnormally expressed in cardiovascular diseases, which may be a potential mechanism for the occurrence and development of these diseases. Here, we discuss the key roles of JMJD proteins in various common cardiovascular diseases. This includes histone lysine demethylase, which has been studied in depth, and less-studied JMJD members. Furthermore, we focus on the epigenetic changes induced by each JMJD member, summarize recent research progress, and evaluate their relationship with cardiovascular diseases and therapeutic potential.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiarun Xie
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510280, China; School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Haoyu Lin
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510280, China; School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Anna Zuo
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510280, China; School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Junqiao Shao
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510280, China; School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Wei Sun
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510280, China; School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Shaoting Wang
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510280, China; School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Jianda Song
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510280, China; School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Wang Yao
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510280, China; School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Yanyu Luo
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510280, China; School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Jia Sun
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510280, China.
| | - Ming Wang
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510280, China; School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Wang H, Yang J, Cai Y, Zhao Y. Macrophages suppress cardiac reprogramming of fibroblasts in vivo via IFN-mediated intercellular self-stimulating circuit. Protein Cell 2024:pwae013. [PMID: 38530808 DOI: 10.1093/procel/pwae013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Direct conversion of cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) to cardiomyocytes (CMs) in vivo to regenerate heart tissue is an attractive approach. After myocardial infarction (MI), heart repair proceeds with an inflammation stage initiated by monocytes infiltration of the infarct zone establishing an immune microenvironment. However, whether and how the MI microenvironment influences the reprogramming of CFs remains unclear. Here, we found that in comparison with cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) cultured in vitro, CFs that transplanted into infarct region of MI mouse models resisted to cardiac reprogramming. RNA-seq analysis revealed upregulation of interferon (IFN) response genes in transplanted CFs, and subsequent inhibition of the IFN receptors increased reprogramming efficiency in vivo. Macrophage-secreted IFN-β was identified as the dominant upstream signaling factor after MI. CFs treated with macrophage-conditioned medium containing IFN-β displayed reduced reprogramming efficiency, while macrophage depletion or blocking the IFN signaling pathway after MI increased reprogramming efficiency in vivo. Co-IP, BiFC and Cut-tag assays showed that phosphorylated STAT1 downstream of IFN signaling in CFs could interact with the reprogramming factor GATA4 and inhibit the GATA4 chromatin occupancy in cardiac genes. Furthermore, upregulation of IFN-IFNAR-p-STAT1 signaling could stimulate CFs secretion of CCL2/7/12 chemokines, subsequently recruiting IFN-β-secreting macrophages. Together, these immune cells further activate STAT1 phosphorylation, enhancing CCL2/7/12 secretion and immune cell recruitment, ultimately forming a self-reinforcing positive feedback loop between CFs and macrophages via IFN-IFNAR-p-STAT1 that inhibits cardiac reprogramming in vivo. Cumulatively, our findings uncover an intercellular self-stimulating inflammatory circuit as a microenvironmental molecular barrier of in situ cardiac reprogramming that needs to be overcome for regenerative medicine applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Differentiation, Beijing Key Laboratory of Cardiometabolic Molecular Medicine, Institute of Molecular Medicine, College of Future Technology, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
- Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Science, Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Junbo Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Differentiation, Beijing Key Laboratory of Cardiometabolic Molecular Medicine, Institute of Molecular Medicine, College of Future Technology, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Yihong Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Differentiation, Beijing Key Laboratory of Cardiometabolic Molecular Medicine, Institute of Molecular Medicine, College of Future Technology, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Yang Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Differentiation, Beijing Key Laboratory of Cardiometabolic Molecular Medicine, Institute of Molecular Medicine, College of Future Technology, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
- Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Science, Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Lal H, Verma SK, Wang Y, Xie M, Young ME. Circadian Rhythms in Cardiovascular Metabolism. Circ Res 2024; 134:635-658. [PMID: 38484029 PMCID: PMC10947116 DOI: 10.1161/circresaha.123.323520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
Energetic demand and nutrient supply fluctuate as a function of time-of-day, in alignment with sleep-wake and fasting-feeding cycles. These daily rhythms are mirrored by 24-hour oscillations in numerous cardiovascular functional parameters, including blood pressure, heart rate, and myocardial contractility. It is, therefore, not surprising that metabolic processes also fluctuate over the course of the day, to ensure temporal needs for ATP, building blocks, and metabolism-based signaling molecules are met. What has become increasingly clear is that in addition to classic signal-response coupling (termed reactionary mechanisms), cardiovascular-relevant cells use autonomous circadian clocks to temporally orchestrate metabolic pathways in preparation for predicted stimuli/stresses (termed anticipatory mechanisms). Here, we review current knowledge regarding circadian regulation of metabolism, how metabolic rhythms are synchronized with cardiovascular function, and whether circadian misalignment/disruption of metabolic processes contribute toward the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hind Lal
- Division of Cardiovascular Disease, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Suresh Kumar Verma
- Division of Cardiovascular Disease, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Yajing Wang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Min Xie
- Division of Cardiovascular Disease, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Martin E. Young
- Division of Cardiovascular Disease, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Mohr ME, Li S, Trouten AM, Stairley RA, Roddy PL, Liu C, Zhang M, Sucov HM, Tao G. Cardiomyocyte-fibroblast interaction regulates ferroptosis and fibrosis after myocardial injury. iScience 2024; 27:109219. [PMID: 38469561 PMCID: PMC10926204 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.109219] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Neonatal mouse hearts have transient renewal capacity, which is lost in juvenile and adult stages. In neonatal mouse hearts, myocardial infarction (MI) causes an initial loss of cardiomyocytes. However, it is unclear which type of regulated cell death (RCD) occurs in stressed cardiomyocytes. In the current studies, we induced MI in neonatal and juvenile mouse hearts and showed that ischemic cardiomyocytes primarily undergo ferroptosis, a non-apoptotic and iron-dependent form of RCD. We demonstrated that cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) protect cardiomyocytes from ferroptosis through paracrine effects and direct cell-cell interaction. CFs show strong resistance to ferroptosis due to high ferritin expression. The fibrogenic activity of CFs, typically considered detrimental to heart function, is negatively regulated by paired-like homeodomain 2 (Pitx2) signaling from cardiomyocytes. In addition, Pitx2 prevents ferroptosis in cardiomyocytes by regulating ferroptotic genes. Understanding the regulatory mechanisms of cardiomyocyte survival and death can identify potentially translatable therapeutic strategies for MI.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mary E. Mohr
- Department of Regenerative Medicine and Cell Biology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA
| | - Shuang Li
- Department of Regenerative Medicine and Cell Biology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA
| | - Allison M. Trouten
- Department of Regenerative Medicine and Cell Biology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA
| | - Rebecca A. Stairley
- Department of Regenerative Medicine and Cell Biology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA
| | - Patrick L. Roddy
- Department of Regenerative Medicine and Cell Biology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA
| | - Chun Liu
- Stanford Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Min Zhang
- Pediatric Translational Medicine Institute, Shanghai Children’s Medical Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Henry M. Sucov
- Department of Regenerative Medicine and Cell Biology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA
| | - Ge Tao
- Department of Regenerative Medicine and Cell Biology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Constanty F, Wu B, Wei KH, Lin IT, Dallmann J, Guenther S, Lautenschlaeger T, Priya R, Lai SL, Stainier DYR, Beisaw A. Border-zone cardiomyocytes and macrophages contribute to remodeling of the extracellular matrix to promote cardiomyocyte invasion during zebrafish cardiac regeneration. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.03.12.584570. [PMID: 38559277 PMCID: PMC10980021 DOI: 10.1101/2024.03.12.584570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Despite numerous advances in our understanding of zebrafish cardiac regeneration, an aspect that remains less studied is how regenerating cardiomyocytes invade, and eventually replace, the collagen-containing fibrotic tissue following injury. Here, we provide an in-depth analysis of the process of cardiomyocyte invasion using live-imaging and histological approaches. We observed close interactions between protruding cardiomyocytes and macrophages at the wound border zone, and macrophage-deficient irf8 mutant zebrafish exhibited defects in extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling and cardiomyocyte protrusion into the injured area. Using a resident macrophage ablation model, we show that defects in ECM remodeling at the border zone and subsequent cardiomyocyte protrusion can be partly attributed to a population of resident macrophages. Single-cell RNA-sequencing analysis of cells at the wound border revealed a population of cardiomyocytes and macrophages with fibroblast-like gene expression signatures, including the expression of genes encoding ECM structural proteins and ECM-remodeling proteins. The expression of mmp14b , which encodes a membrane-anchored matrix metalloproteinase, was restricted to cells in the border zone, including cardiomyocytes, macrophages, fibroblasts, and endocardial/endothelial cells. Genetic deletion of mmp14b led to a decrease in 1) macrophage recruitment to the border zone, 2) collagen degradation at the border zone, and 3) subsequent cardiomyocyte invasion. Furthermore, cardiomyocyte-specific overexpression of mmp14b was sufficient to enhance cardiomyocyte invasion into the injured tissue and along the apical surface of the wound. Altogether, our data shed important insights into the process of cardiomyocyte invasion of the collagen-containing injured tissue during cardiac regeneration. They further suggest that cardiomyocytes and resident macrophages contribute to ECM remodeling at the border zone to promote cardiomyocyte replenishment of the fibrotic injured tissue.
Collapse
|
32
|
Improta-Caria AC, Rodrigues LF, Joaquim VHA, De Sousa RAL, Fernandes T, Oliveira EM. MicroRNAs regulating signaling pathways in cardiac fibrosis: potential role of the exercise training. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2024; 326:H497-H510. [PMID: 38063810 PMCID: PMC11219062 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00410.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
Cardiovascular and metabolic diseases such as hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and obesity develop long-term fibrotic processes in the heart, promoting pathological cardiac remodeling, including after myocardial infarction, reparative fibrotic processes also occur. These processes are regulated by many intracellular signaling pathways that have not yet been completely elucidated, including those associated with microRNA (miRNA) expression. miRNAs are small RNA transcripts (18-25 nucleotides in length) that act as posttranscriptionally regulators of gene expression, inhibiting or degrading one or more target messenger RNAs (mRNAs), and proven to be involved in many biological processes such as cell cycle, differentiation, proliferation, migration, and apoptosis, directly affecting the pathophysiology of several diseases, including cardiac fibrosis. Exercise training can modulate the expression of miRNAs and it is known to be beneficial in various cardiovascular diseases, attenuating cardiac fibrosis processes. However, the signaling pathways modulated by the exercise associated with miRNAs in cardiac fibrosis were not fully understood. Thus, this review aims to analyze the expression of miRNAs that modulate signaling pathways in cardiac fibrosis processes that can be regulated by exercise training.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alex Cleber Improta-Caria
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology of the Exercise, Physical Education and Sport School, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Luis Felipe Rodrigues
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology of the Exercise, Physical Education and Sport School, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Victor Hugo Antonio Joaquim
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology of the Exercise, Physical Education and Sport School, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Tiago Fernandes
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology of the Exercise, Physical Education and Sport School, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Edilamar Menezes Oliveira
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology of the Exercise, Physical Education and Sport School, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Departments of Internal Medicine, Center for Regenerative Medicine, USF Health Heart Institute, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, United States
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Chi J, Wu N, Li P, Hu J, Cai H, Lin C, Lai Y, Yang H, Huang J, Li M, Xu L. Hygrothermal stress increases malignant arrhythmias susceptibility by inhibiting the LKB1-AMPK-Cx43 pathway. Sci Rep 2024; 14:5010. [PMID: 38424223 PMCID: PMC10904738 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-55804-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
High mortality due to hygrothermal stress during heat waves is mostly linked to cardiovascular malfunction, the most serious of which are malignant arrhythmias. However, the mechanism associated with hygrothermal stress leading to malignant arrhythmias remains unclear. The energy metabolism regulated by liver kinase B1 (LKB1) and adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and the electrical signaling based on gap junction protein, connexin43 (Cx43), plays important roles in the development of cardiac arrhythmias. In order to investigate whether hygrothermal stress induces arrhythmias via the LKB1-AMPK-Cx43 pathway, Sprague-Dawley rats were exposed to high temperature and humidity for constructing the hygrothermal stress model. A final choice of 40 °C and 85% humidity was made by pre-exploration based on different gradient environmental conditions with reference to arrhythmia event-inducing stability and risk of sudden death. Then, the incidence of arrhythmic events, as well as the expression, phosphorylation at Ser368, and distribution of Cx43 in the myocardium, were examined. Meanwhile, the adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase activator, Acadesine, was also administered to investigate the role played by AMPK in the process. Our results showed that hygrothermal stress induced malignant arrhythmias such as ventricular tachycardia, ventricular fibrillation, and severe atrioventricular block. Besides, hygrothermal stress decreased the phosphorylation of Cx43 at Ser368, induced proarrhythmic redistribution of Cx43 from polar to lateral sides of the cardiomyocytes, and also caused LKB1 and phosphorylated-AMPK expression to be less abundant. While, pretreatment with Acadesine significantly actived the LKB1-AMPK-Cx43 pathway and thus ameliorated malignant arrhythmias, indicating that the hygrothermal stress-induced arrhythmias is associated with the redistribution of gap junctions in cardiomyocytes and the organism's energy metabolism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jianing Chi
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Geriatric Cardiology, General Hospital of Southern Theater Command, Guangzhou, China
- Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Guangzhou, China
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Cardiac Rehabilitation, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ningxia Wu
- Graduate School, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Pengfei Li
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Geriatric Cardiology, General Hospital of Southern Theater Command, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiaman Hu
- Department of Geriatric Cardiology, General Hospital of Southern Theater Command, Guangzhou, China
- School of Public Health, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hua Cai
- Department of Geriatric Cardiology, General Hospital of Southern Theater Command, Guangzhou, China
- Graduate School, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Cailong Lin
- Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Guangzhou, China
- School of Public Health, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yingying Lai
- Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Guangzhou, China
- School of Public Health, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Han Yang
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Geriatric Cardiology, General Hospital of Southern Theater Command, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jianyu Huang
- Department of Geriatric Cardiology, General Hospital of Southern Theater Command, Guangzhou, China
- Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Min Li
- Department of Geriatric Cardiology, General Hospital of Southern Theater Command, Guangzhou, China
- Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lin Xu
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
- Department of Geriatric Cardiology, General Hospital of Southern Theater Command, Guangzhou, China.
- Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Guangzhou, China.
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Cardiac Rehabilitation, Guangzhou, China.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Trogisch FA, Abouissa A, Keles M, Birke A, Fuhrmann M, Dittrich GM, Weinzierl N, Wink E, Cordero J, Elsherbiny A, Martin-Garrido A, Grein S, Hemanna S, Hofmann E, Nicin L, Bibli SI, Airik R, Kispert A, Kist R, Quanchao S, Kürschner SW, Winkler M, Gretz N, Mogler C, Korff T, Koch PS, Dimmeler S, Dobreva G, Heineke J. Endothelial cells drive organ fibrosis in mice by inducing expression of the transcription factor SOX9. Sci Transl Med 2024; 16:eabq4581. [PMID: 38416842 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.abq4581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/01/2024]
Abstract
Fibrosis is a hallmark of chronic disease. Although fibroblasts are involved, it is unclear to what extent endothelial cells also might contribute. We detected increased expression of the transcription factor Sox9 in endothelial cells in several different mouse fibrosis models. These models included systolic heart failure induced by pressure overload, diastolic heart failure induced by high-fat diet and nitric oxide synthase inhibition, pulmonary fibrosis induced by bleomycin treatment, and liver fibrosis due to a choline-deficient diet. We also observed up-regulation of endothelial SOX9 in cardiac tissue from patients with heart failure. To test whether SOX9 induction was sufficient to cause disease, we generated mice with endothelial cell-specific overexpression of Sox9, which promoted fibrosis in multiple organs and resulted in signs of heart failure. Endothelial Sox9 deletion prevented fibrosis and organ dysfunction in the two mouse models of heart failure as well as in the lung and liver fibrosis mouse models. Bulk and single-cell RNA sequencing of mouse endothelial cells across multiple vascular beds revealed that SOX9 induced extracellular matrix, growth factor, and inflammatory gene expression, leading to matrix deposition by endothelial cells. Moreover, mouse endothelial cells activated neighboring fibroblasts that then migrated and deposited matrix in response to SOX9, a process partly mediated by the secreted growth factor CCN2, a direct SOX9 target; endothelial cell-specific Sox9 deletion reversed these changes. These findings suggest a role for endothelial SOX9 as a fibrosis-promoting factor in different mouse organs during disease and imply that endothelial cells are an important regulator of fibrosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Felix A Trogisch
- ECAS (European Center for Angioscience), Department of Cardiovascular Physiology, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Heidelberg/Mannheim, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
- CFPM (Core Facility Platform Mannheim), Cardiac Imaging Center, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Aya Abouissa
- ECAS (European Center for Angioscience), Department of Cardiovascular Physiology, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Heidelberg/Mannheim, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
- CFPM (Core Facility Platform Mannheim), Cardiac Imaging Center, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Merve Keles
- ECAS (European Center for Angioscience), Department of Cardiovascular Physiology, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Heidelberg/Mannheim, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
- CFPM (Core Facility Platform Mannheim), Cardiac Imaging Center, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Anne Birke
- ECAS (European Center for Angioscience), Department of Cardiovascular Physiology, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Manuela Fuhrmann
- ECAS (European Center for Angioscience), Department of Cardiovascular Physiology, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Gesine M Dittrich
- ECAS (European Center for Angioscience), Department of Cardiovascular Physiology, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Heidelberg/Mannheim, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Nina Weinzierl
- ECAS (European Center for Angioscience), Department of Cardiovascular Physiology, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Elvira Wink
- ECAS (European Center for Angioscience), Department of Cardiovascular Physiology, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Julio Cordero
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Heidelberg/Mannheim, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
- ECAS, Department of Cardiovascular Genomics and Epigenomics, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Adel Elsherbiny
- ECAS, Department of Cardiovascular Genomics and Epigenomics, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Abel Martin-Garrido
- ECAS (European Center for Angioscience), Department of Cardiovascular Physiology, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Steve Grein
- ECAS (European Center for Angioscience), Department of Cardiovascular Physiology, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Heidelberg/Mannheim, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Shruthi Hemanna
- ECAS (European Center for Angioscience), Department of Cardiovascular Physiology, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Heidelberg/Mannheim, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Ellen Hofmann
- ECAS (European Center for Angioscience), Department of Cardiovascular Physiology, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Luka Nicin
- Institute for Cardiovascular Regeneration, Goethe University Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Cardiopulmonary Institute, Goethe University Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- DZHK, partner site Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Sofia-Iris Bibli
- Cardiopulmonary Institute, Goethe University Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- DZHK, partner site Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Institute of Vascular Signaling, Centre for Molecular Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Rannar Airik
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Andreas Kispert
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Ralf Kist
- School of Dental Sciences, Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4BW, UK
| | - Sun Quanchao
- Medical Research Center, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Sina W Kürschner
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Medical Center and Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, and Center of Excellence in Dermatology, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
- ECAS, Adjunct Faculty, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Manuel Winkler
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Medical Center and Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, and Center of Excellence in Dermatology, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
- ECAS, Adjunct Faculty, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Norbert Gretz
- Medical Research Center, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Carolin Mogler
- Institute of Pathology, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Thomas Korff
- ECAS, Adjunct Faculty, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
- Department of Cardiovascular Physiology, Heidelberg University, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Philipp-Sebastian Koch
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Medical Center and Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, and Center of Excellence in Dermatology, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
- ECAS, Adjunct Faculty, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Stefanie Dimmeler
- Institute for Cardiovascular Regeneration, Goethe University Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Cardiopulmonary Institute, Goethe University Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- DZHK, partner site Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Gergana Dobreva
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Heidelberg/Mannheim, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
- ECAS, Department of Cardiovascular Genomics and Epigenomics, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Joerg Heineke
- ECAS (European Center for Angioscience), Department of Cardiovascular Physiology, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Heidelberg/Mannheim, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
- CFPM (Core Facility Platform Mannheim), Cardiac Imaging Center, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Gonzalez BA, Harmeyer SW, Song T, Sadayappan S, Yutzey KE. Dynamic changes in mitral valve extracellular matrix, tissue mechanics and function in a mouse model of Marfan syndrome. Matrix Biol 2024; 126:1-13. [PMID: 38185344 DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2024.01.001] [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: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Mouse models of Marfan syndrome (MFS) with Fibrillin 1 (Fbn1) variant C1041G exhibit cardiovascular abnormalities, including myxomatous valve disease (MVD) and aortic aneurism, with structural extracellular matrix (ECM) dysregulation. In this study, we examine the structure-function-mechanics relations of the mitral valve related to specific transitions in ECM composition and organization in progressive MVD in MFS mice from Postnatal day (P)7 to 1 year-of-age. APPROACH AND RESULTS Mechanistic links between mechanical forces and biological changes in MVD progression were examined in Fbn1C1041G/+ MFS mice. By echocardiography, mitral valve dysfunction is prevalent at 2 months with a decrease in cardiac function at 6 months, followed by a preserved cardiac function at 12 months. Mitral valve (MV) regurgitation occurs in a subset of mice at 2-6 months, while progressive dilatation of the aorta occurs from 2 to 12 months. Mitral valve tissue mechanical assessments using a uniaxial Permeabilizable Fiber System demonstrate decreased stiffness of MFS MVs at all stages. Histological and microscopic analysis of ECM content, structure, and fiber orientation demonstrate that alterations in ECM mechanics, composition, and organization precede functional abnormalities in Fbn1C1041G/+MFS MVs. At 2 months, ECM abnormalities are detected with an increase in proteoglycans and decreased stiffness of the mitral valve. By 6-12 months, collagen fiber remodeling is increased with abnormal fiber organization in MFS mitral valve leaflets. At the same time, matrifibrocyte gene expression characteristic of collagen-rich connective tissue is increased, as detected by RNA in situ hybridization and qPCR. Together, these studies demonstrate early prevalence of proteoglycans at 2 months followed by upregulation of collagen structure and organization with age in MVs of MFS mice. CONCLUSIONS Altogether, our data indicate dynamic regulation of mitral valve structure, tissue mechanics, and function that reflect changes in ECM composition, organization, and gene expression in progressive MVD. Notably, increased collagen fiber organization and orientation, potentially dependent on increased matrifibrocyte cell activity, is apparent with altered mitral valve mechanics and function in aging MFS mice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brittany A Gonzalez
- The Heart Institute, Division of Molecular Cardiovascular Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Samuel W Harmeyer
- The Heart Institute, Division of Molecular Cardiovascular Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Taejeong Song
- Internal Medicine, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Sakthivel Sadayappan
- Internal Medicine, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Katherine E Yutzey
- The Heart Institute, Division of Molecular Cardiovascular Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati OH, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Bao H, Wang X, Zhou H, Zhou W, Liao F, Wei F, Yang S, Luo Z, Li W. PCSK9 regulates myofibroblast transformation through the JAK2/STAT3 pathway to regulate fibrosis after myocardial infarction. Biochem Pharmacol 2024; 220:115996. [PMID: 38154546 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115996] [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: 09/23/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023]
Abstract
Cardiac fibrosis is pivotal in the progression of numerous cardiovascular diseases. This phenomenon is hallmarked by an excessive deposition of ECM protein secreted by myofibroblasts, leading to increased myocardial stiffness. Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) is a serine protease that belongs to the proprotein-converting enzyme family. It has emerged as a viable therapeutic target for reducing plasma low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. However, the exact mechanism via which PCSK9 impacts cardiac fibrosis remains unclear. In the present research, an increase in circulating PCSK9 protein levels was observed in individuals with myocardial infarction and rat models of myocardial infarction. Moreover, the inhibition of circulating PCSK9 in rats was found to reduce post-infarction fibrosis. In vitro experiments further demonstrated that overexpression of PCSK9 or stimulation by extracellular PCSK9 recombinant protein enhanced the transformation of cardiac fibroblasts to myofibroblasts. This process also elevated collagen Ⅰ, and Ⅲ, as well as α-SMA protein levels. However, these effects were countered when co-incubated with the STAT3 inhibitor S3I-201. This study suggests that PCSK9 may function as a novel regulator of myocardial fibrosis, primarily via the JAK2/STAT3 pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hailong Bao
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550004, Guizhou, China; Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Gui Qian International General Hospital, Guiyang 550018, Guizhou, China
| | - Xu Wang
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550004, Guizhou, China; The Key Laboratory of Myocardial Remodeling Research, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550004, Guizhou, China
| | - Haiyan Zhou
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550004, Guizhou, China; The Key Laboratory of Myocardial Remodeling Research, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550004, Guizhou, China
| | - Wei Zhou
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550004, Guizhou, China; The Key Laboratory of Myocardial Remodeling Research, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550004, Guizhou, China
| | - Fujun Liao
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550004, Guizhou, China; The Key Laboratory of Myocardial Remodeling Research, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550004, Guizhou, China
| | - Fang Wei
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550004, Guizhou, China; The Key Laboratory of Myocardial Remodeling Research, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550004, Guizhou, China
| | - Shiyu Yang
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Gui Qian International General Hospital, Guiyang 550018, Guizhou, China
| | - Zhenhua Luo
- Department of Central Lab, Guizhou Provincial People's Hospital, Guiyang 550002, Guizhou, China.
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550004, Guizhou, China; The Key Laboratory of Myocardial Remodeling Research, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550004, Guizhou, China.
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Sakamoto T, Kelly DP. Cardiac maturation. J Mol Cell Cardiol 2024; 187:38-50. [PMID: 38160640 PMCID: PMC10923079 DOI: 10.1016/j.yjmcc.2023.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
The heart undergoes a dynamic maturation process following birth, in response to a wide range of stimuli, including both physiological and pathological cues. This process entails substantial re-programming of mitochondrial energy metabolism coincident with the emergence of specialized structural and contractile machinery to meet the demands of the adult heart. Many components of this program revert to a more "fetal" format during development of pathological cardiac hypertrophy and heart failure. In this review, emphasis is placed on recent progress in our understanding of the transcriptional control of cardiac maturation, encompassing the results of studies spanning from in vivo models to cardiomyocytes derived from human stem cells. The potential applications of this current state of knowledge to new translational avenues aimed at the treatment of heart failure is also addressed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tomoya Sakamoto
- Cardiovascular Institute, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Daniel P Kelly
- Cardiovascular Institute, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Weinberger M, Riley PR. Animal models to study cardiac regeneration. Nat Rev Cardiol 2024; 21:89-105. [PMID: 37580429 DOI: 10.1038/s41569-023-00914-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023]
Abstract
Permanent fibrosis and chronic deterioration of heart function in patients after myocardial infarction present a major health-care burden worldwide. In contrast to the restricted potential for cellular and functional regeneration of the adult mammalian heart, a robust capacity for cardiac regeneration is seen during the neonatal period in mammals as well as in the adults of many fish and amphibian species. However, we lack a complete understanding as to why cardiac regeneration takes place more efficiently in some species than in others. The capacity of the heart to regenerate after injury is controlled by a complex network of cellular and molecular mechanisms that form a regulatory landscape, either permitting or restricting regeneration. In this Review, we provide an overview of the diverse array of vertebrates that have been studied for their cardiac regenerative potential and discuss differential heart regeneration outcomes in closely related species. Additionally, we summarize current knowledge about the core mechanisms that regulate cardiac regeneration across vertebrate species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Weinberger
- Institute of Developmental & Regenerative Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Paul R Riley
- Institute of Developmental & Regenerative Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Smolgovsky S, Theall B, Wagner N, Alcaide P. Fibroblasts and immune cells: at the crossroad of organ inflammation and fibrosis. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2024; 326:H303-H316. [PMID: 38038714 PMCID: PMC11219060 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00545.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
The immune and fibrotic responses have evolved to work in tandem to respond to pathogen clearance and promote tissue repair. However, excessive immune and fibrotic responses lead to chronic inflammation and fibrosis, respectively, both of which are key pathological drivers of organ pathophysiology. Fibroblasts and immune cells are central to these responses, and evidence of these two cell types communicating through soluble mediators or adopting functions from each other through direct contact is constantly emerging. Here, we review complex junctions of fibroblast-immune cell cross talk, such as immune cell modulation of fibroblast physiology and fibroblast acquisition of immune cell-like functions, as well as how these systems of communication contribute to organ pathophysiology. We review the concept of antigen presentation by fibroblasts among different organs with different regenerative capacities, and then focus on the inflammation-fibrosis axis in the heart in the complex syndrome of heart failure. We discuss the need to develop anti-inflammatory and antifibrotic therapies, so far unsuccessful to date, that target novel mechanisms that sit at the crossroads of the fibrotic and immune responses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sasha Smolgovsky
- Department of Immunology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
- Immunology Graduate Program, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Brandon Theall
- Department of Immunology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
- Immunology Graduate Program, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Noah Wagner
- Department of Immunology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Pilar Alcaide
- Department of Immunology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
- Immunology Graduate Program, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Nelson AR, Christiansen SL, Naegle KM, Saucerman JJ. Logic-based mechanistic machine learning on high-content images reveals how drugs differentially regulate cardiac fibroblasts. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2303513121. [PMID: 38266046 PMCID: PMC10835125 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2303513121] [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: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Fibroblasts are essential regulators of extracellular matrix deposition following cardiac injury. These cells exhibit highly plastic responses in phenotype during fibrosis in response to environmental stimuli. Here, we test whether and how candidate anti-fibrotic drugs differentially regulate measures of cardiac fibroblast phenotype, which may help identify treatments for cardiac fibrosis. We conducted a high-content microscopy screen of human cardiac fibroblasts treated with 13 clinically relevant drugs in the context of TGFβ and/or IL-1β, measuring phenotype across 137 single-cell features. We used the phenotypic data from our high-content imaging to train a logic-based mechanistic machine learning model (LogiMML) for fibroblast signaling. The model predicted how pirfenidone and Src inhibitor WH-4-023 reduce actin filament assembly and actin-myosin stress fiber formation, respectively. Validating the LogiMML model prediction that PI3K partially mediates the effects of Src inhibition, we found that PI3K inhibition reduces actin-myosin stress fiber formation and procollagen I production in human cardiac fibroblasts. In this study, we establish a modeling approach combining the strengths of logic-based network models and regularized regression models. We apply this approach to predict mechanisms that mediate the differential effects of drugs on fibroblasts, revealing Src inhibition acting via PI3K as a potential therapy for cardiac fibrosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anders R. Nelson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA22903
| | - Steven L. Christiansen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA22903
- Department of Biochemistry, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT84602
| | - Kristen M. Naegle
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA22903
| | - Jeffrey J. Saucerman
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA22903
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Shumliakivska M, Luxán G, Hemmerling I, Scheller M, Li X, Müller-Tidow C, Schuhmacher B, Sun Z, Dendorfer A, Debes A, Glaser SF, Muhly-Reinholz M, Kirschbaum K, Hoffmann J, Nagel E, Puntmann VO, Cremer S, Leuschner F, Abplanalp WT, John D, Zeiher AM, Dimmeler S. DNMT3A clonal hematopoiesis-driver mutations induce cardiac fibrosis by paracrine activation of fibroblasts. Nat Commun 2024; 15:606. [PMID: 38242884 PMCID: PMC10799021 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-43003-w] [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: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Hematopoietic mutations in epigenetic regulators like DNA methyltransferase 3 alpha (DNMT3A), play a pivotal role in driving clonal hematopoiesis of indeterminate potential (CHIP), and are associated with unfavorable outcomes in patients suffering from heart failure (HF). However, the precise interactions between CHIP-mutated cells and other cardiac cell types remain unknown. Here, we identify fibroblasts as potential partners in interactions with CHIP-mutated monocytes. We used combined transcriptomic data derived from peripheral blood mononuclear cells of HF patients, both with and without CHIP, and cardiac tissue. We demonstrate that inactivation of DNMT3A in macrophages intensifies interactions with cardiac fibroblasts and increases cardiac fibrosis. DNMT3A inactivation amplifies the release of heparin-binding epidermal growth factor-like growth factor, thereby facilitating activation of cardiac fibroblasts. These findings identify a potential pathway of DNMT3A CHIP-driver mutations to the initiation and progression of HF and may also provide a compelling basis for the development of innovative anti-fibrotic strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Shumliakivska
- Institute for Cardiovascular Regeneration, Goethe University Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- German Center of Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Rhine/Main, 60439, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Cardiopulmonary Institute (CPI), 60590, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Guillermo Luxán
- Institute for Cardiovascular Regeneration, Goethe University Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- German Center of Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Rhine/Main, 60439, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Cardiopulmonary Institute (CPI), 60590, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Inga Hemmerling
- Department of Internal Medicine III, University Hospital Heidelberg, University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 410, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
- German Center of Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Heidelberg/Mannheim, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Marina Scheller
- Department of Medicine V, Hematology, Oncology and Rheumatology, University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 410, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Xue Li
- Department of Internal Medicine III, University Hospital Heidelberg, University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 410, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
- German Center of Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Heidelberg/Mannheim, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Carsten Müller-Tidow
- Department of Medicine V, Hematology, Oncology and Rheumatology, University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 410, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Bianca Schuhmacher
- Institute for Cardiovascular Regeneration, Goethe University Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Zhengwu Sun
- Walter-Brendel-Centre of Experimental Medicine, Hospital of the Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Marchioninistraße 68, 81377, München, Germany
| | - Andreas Dendorfer
- Walter-Brendel-Centre of Experimental Medicine, Hospital of the Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Marchioninistraße 68, 81377, München, Germany
| | - Alisa Debes
- Institute for Cardiovascular Regeneration, Goethe University Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Simone-Franziska Glaser
- Institute for Cardiovascular Regeneration, Goethe University Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- German Center of Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Rhine/Main, 60439, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Cardiopulmonary Institute (CPI), 60590, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Marion Muhly-Reinholz
- Institute for Cardiovascular Regeneration, Goethe University Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Klara Kirschbaum
- Department of Medicine, Cardiology, University Hospital Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Jedrzej Hoffmann
- German Center of Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Rhine/Main, 60439, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Institute of Experimental and Translational Cardiovascular Imaging, Centre for Cardiovascular Imaging, University Hospital Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Eike Nagel
- German Center of Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Rhine/Main, 60439, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Institute of Experimental and Translational Cardiovascular Imaging, Centre for Cardiovascular Imaging, University Hospital Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Valentina O Puntmann
- German Center of Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Rhine/Main, 60439, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Institute of Experimental and Translational Cardiovascular Imaging, Centre for Cardiovascular Imaging, University Hospital Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Sebastian Cremer
- Institute for Cardiovascular Regeneration, Goethe University Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- German Center of Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Rhine/Main, 60439, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Cardiopulmonary Institute (CPI), 60590, Frankfurt, Germany
- Department of Medicine, Cardiology, University Hospital Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Florian Leuschner
- Department of Internal Medicine III, University Hospital Heidelberg, University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 410, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
- German Center of Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Heidelberg/Mannheim, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Wesley Tyler Abplanalp
- Institute for Cardiovascular Regeneration, Goethe University Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- German Center of Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Rhine/Main, 60439, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Cardiopulmonary Institute (CPI), 60590, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - David John
- Institute for Cardiovascular Regeneration, Goethe University Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Cardiopulmonary Institute (CPI), 60590, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Andreas M Zeiher
- Institute for Cardiovascular Regeneration, Goethe University Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- German Center of Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Rhine/Main, 60439, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Cardiopulmonary Institute (CPI), 60590, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Stefanie Dimmeler
- Institute for Cardiovascular Regeneration, Goethe University Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
- German Center of Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Rhine/Main, 60439, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
- Cardiopulmonary Institute (CPI), 60590, Frankfurt, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Ackerman JE, Muscat SN, Adjei-Sowah E, Korcari A, Nichols AEC, Buckley MR, Loiselle AE. Identification of Periostin as a critical niche for myofibroblast dynamics and fibrosis during tendon healing. Matrix Biol 2024; 125:59-72. [PMID: 38101460 PMCID: PMC10922883 DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2023.12.004] [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: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Tendon injuries are a major clinical problem, with poor patient outcomes caused by abundant scar tissue deposition during healing. Myofibroblasts play a critical role in the initial restoration of structural integrity after injury. However, persistent myofibroblast activity drives the transition to fibrotic scar tissue formation. As such, disrupting myofibroblast persistence is a key therapeutic target. While myofibroblasts are typically defined by the presence of αSMA+ stress fibers, αSMA is expressed in other cell types including the vasculature. As such, modulation of myofibroblast dynamics via disruption of αSMA expression is not a translationally tenable approach. Recent work has demonstrated that Periostin-lineage (PostnLin) cells are a precursor for cardiac fibrosis-associated myofibroblasts. In contrast to this, here we show that PostnLin cells contribute to a transient αSMA+ myofibroblast population that is required for functional tendon healing, and that Periostin forms a supportive matrix niche that facilitates myofibroblast differentiation and persistence. Collectively, these data identify the Periostin matrix niche as a critical regulator of myofibroblast fate and persistence that could be targeted for therapeutic manipulation to facilitate regenerative tendon healing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica E Ackerman
- Center for Musculoskeletal Research, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, United States; NDORMS, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Samantha N Muscat
- Center for Musculoskeletal Research, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, United States; Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Emmanuela Adjei-Sowah
- Center for Musculoskeletal Research, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, United States; Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Antonion Korcari
- Center for Musculoskeletal Research, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, United States; Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Anne E C Nichols
- Center for Musculoskeletal Research, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, United States; Department of Orthopaedics & Physical Performance, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Mark R Buckley
- Center for Musculoskeletal Research, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, United States; Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Alayna E Loiselle
- Center for Musculoskeletal Research, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, United States; Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, United States; Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, United States; Department of Orthopaedics & Physical Performance, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Dobreva G, Heineke J. Inter- and Intracellular Signaling Pathways. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2024; 1441:271-294. [PMID: 38884717 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-44087-8_15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
Cardiovascular diseases, both congenital and acquired, are the leading cause of death worldwide, associated with significant health consequences and economic burden. Due to major advances in surgical procedures, most patients with congenital heart disease (CHD) survive into adulthood but suffer from previously unrecognized long-term consequences, such as early-onset heart failure. Therefore, understanding the molecular mechanisms resulting in heart defects and the lifelong complications due to hemodynamic overload are of utmost importance. Congenital heart disease arises in the first trimester of pregnancy, due to defects in the complex morphogenetic patterning of the heart. This process is coordinated through a complicated web of intercellular communication between the epicardium, the endocardium, and the myocardium. In the postnatal heart, similar crosstalk between cardiomyocytes, endothelial cells, and fibroblasts exists during pathological hemodynamic overload that emerges as a consequence of a congenital heart defect. Ultimately, communication between cells triggers the activation of intracellular signaling circuits, which allow fine coordination of cardiac development and function. Here, we review the inter- and intracellular signaling mechanisms in the heart as they were discovered mainly in genetically modified mice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gergana Dobreva
- ECAS (European Center for Angioscience), Department of Cardiovascular Genomics and Epigenomics, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany.
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK) Partner Site, Heidelberg/Mannheim, Germany.
| | - Joerg Heineke
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK) Partner Site, Heidelberg/Mannheim, Germany.
- ECAS (European Center for Angioscience), Department of Cardiovascular Physiology, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Wang Q, Spurlock B, Liu J, Qian L. Fibroblast Reprogramming in Cardiac Repair. JACC Basic Transl Sci 2024; 9:145-160. [PMID: 38362341 PMCID: PMC10864899 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacbts.2023.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease is one of the major causes of death worldwide. Limited proliferative capacity of adult mammalian cardiomyocytes has prompted researchers to exploit regenerative therapy after myocardial injury, such as myocardial infarction, to attenuate heart dysfunction caused by such injury. Direct cardiac reprogramming is a recently emerged promising approach to repair damaged myocardium by directly converting resident cardiac fibroblasts into cardiomyocyte-like cells. The achievement of in vivo direct reprogramming of fibroblasts has been shown, by multiple laboratories independently, to improve cardiac function and mitigate fibrosis post-myocardial infarction, which holds great potential for clinical application. There have been numerous pieces of valuable work in both basic and translational research to enhance our understanding and continued refinement of direct cardiac reprogramming in recent years. However, there remain many challenges to overcome before we can truly take advantage of this technique to treat patients with ischemic cardiac diseases. Here, we review recent progress of fibroblast reprogramming in cardiac repair, including the optimization of several reprogramming strategies, mechanistic exploration, and translational efforts, and we make recommendations for future research to further understand and translate direct cardiac reprogramming from bench to bedside. Challenges relating to these efforts will also be discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qiaozi Wang
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, McAllister Heart Institute, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Brian Spurlock
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, McAllister Heart Institute, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Jiandong Liu
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, McAllister Heart Institute, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Li Qian
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, McAllister Heart Institute, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Li S, Kong F, Xu X, Song S, Wu Y, Tong J. Identification and exploration of aging-related subtypes and distinctive role of SERPINE1 in heart failure based on single-cell and bulk RNA sequencing data. J Gene Med 2024; 26:e3631. [PMID: 38062883 DOI: 10.1002/jgm.3631] [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: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Aging is a major risk factor for heart failure (HF) and is the leading cause of death worldwide. Currently, the nature of the relationship between aging and HF is not entirely clear. Herein, this study aimed to explore new diagnostic biomarkers, molecular typing and therapeutic strategies for HF by investigating the biological significance of aging-related genes in HF. A total of 157 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were screened totally between HF and normal samples, and functional enrichment analysis of DEGs revealed the strong association of HF progression with aging, immune processes and metabolism. Six HF-specific aging-related genes were further identified, and a diagnostic model was developed and validated for good diagnostic efficacy. In addition, we collected blood samples from 10 normal controls and 10 HF patients for RT-qPCR analysis to verify the bioinformation. We also identified two aging-associated subtypes with distinctly different immune infiltration and metabolic microenvironment. Further single-cell sequencing analysis conducted in the study identified SERPINE1 as a key gene in HF. The distinctive role of SERPINE1 fibroblasts was revealed, including three main findings: (I) fibroblasts had a higher proportion and expression of SERPINE1 levels in HF; (II) the ligand-receptor pair MDK-LRP1 made the most contributions in high interactions with other cell types in SERPINE1 fibroblasts; and (III) SERPINE1 fibroblasts were associated with the interaction of extracellular matrix and receptor and may be regulated by the transcription factor EGR1. In conclusion, this study highlights the importance of aging-related genes in diagnosing HF and regulating immune infiltration. We also identified different HF subtypes and a potentially crucial gene, which may provide a better understanding of the molecular-level mechanisms of aging-related HF and aid in developing effective therapeutic strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shengnan Li
- Department of Cardiology, Zhongda Hospital of Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Fanliang Kong
- Key Laboratory for Developmental Genes and Human Disease, Ministry of Education, Institute of Life Sciences, Jiangsu Province High-Tech Key Laboratory for Bio-Medical Research, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xuan Xu
- Department of Cardiology, Zhongda Hospital of Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Sifan Song
- Department of Cardiology, Zhongda Hospital of Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yandan Wu
- Department of Cardiology, Zhongda Hospital of Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jiayi Tong
- Department of Cardiology, Zhongda Hospital of Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Hui W, Song T, Yu L, Chen X. The Binding of HSPA8 and Mitochondrial ALDH2 Mediates Oxygen-Glucose Deprivation-Induced Fibroblast Senescence. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 13:42. [PMID: 38247467 PMCID: PMC10812545 DOI: 10.3390/antiox13010042] [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: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 12/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Cellular senescence refers to the permanent and irreversible cessation of the cell cycle. Recently, it has gained significant interest as a promising target for preventing cardiovascular diseases. Aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 (ALDH2) is a mitochondrial enzyme that has been closely linked with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. In this study, bioinformatics analysis revealed that the signaling pathway for fibroblast senescence is significantly activated in mice after myocardial infarction (MI), and that ALDH2 might be a crucial molecule responsible for inducing this change. Therefore, we created an NIH3T3 fibroblast cell line oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD) model to replicate the conditions of MI in vitro. We further revealed that decreased ALDH2 enzyme activity is a critical factor that affects fibroblast senescence after OGD, and the activation of ALDH2 can improve the mitochondrial damage caused by OGD. We identified Heat Shock 70-kDa Protein 8 (HSPA8) as an interacting protein of ALDH2 through co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP) and mass spectrometry (MS) detection. Subsequently, our studies showed that HSPA8 translocates to the mitochondria after OGD, potentially binding to ALDH2 and inhibiting its enzyme activity. By transfecting siRNA to inhibit HSPA8 expression in cells, it was found that ALDH2 enzyme activity can be significantly increased, and the senescence characteristics induced by OGD in NIH3T3 cells can be improved. In conclusion, the data from this study suggest that HSPA8, in conjunction with ALDH2, could regulate fibroblast senescence after oxygen-glucose deprivation, providing a new direction and foundation for effectively intervening in fibroblast senescence after myocardial infarction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenting Hui
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China;
| | - Tongtong Song
- Department of Anatomy, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China;
| | - Ling Yu
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130022, China;
| | - Xia Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China;
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Fernandes I, Funakoshi S, Hamidzada H, Epelman S, Keller G. Modeling cardiac fibroblast heterogeneity from human pluripotent stem cell-derived epicardial cells. Nat Commun 2023; 14:8183. [PMID: 38081833 PMCID: PMC10713677 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-43312-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Cardiac fibroblasts play an essential role in the development of the heart and are implicated in disease progression in the context of fibrosis and regeneration. Here, we establish a simple organoid culture platform using human pluripotent stem cell-derived epicardial cells and ventricular cardiomyocytes to study the development, maturation, and heterogeneity of cardiac fibroblasts under normal conditions and following treatment with pathological stimuli. We demonstrate that this system models the early interactions between epicardial cells and cardiomyocytes to generate a population of fibroblasts that recapitulates many aspects of fibroblast behavior in vivo, including changes associated with maturation and in response to pathological stimuli associated with cardiac injury. Using single cell transcriptomics, we show that the hPSC-derived organoid fibroblast population displays a high degree of heterogeneity that approximates the heterogeneity of populations in both the normal and diseased human heart. Additionally, we identify a unique subpopulation of fibroblasts possessing reparative features previously characterized in the hearts of model organisms. Taken together, our system recapitulates many aspects of human cardiac fibroblast specification, development, and maturation, providing a platform to investigate the role of these cells in human cardiovascular development and disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ian Fernandes
- McEwen Stem Cell Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, M5G1L7, Canada
- Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5G1L7, Canada
- Princess Margaret Cancer Center, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, M5G1L7, Canada
| | - Shunsuke Funakoshi
- McEwen Stem Cell Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, M5G1L7, Canada.
- Center for iPS Cell Research and Application, Kyoto University, Kyoto, 606-8507, Japan.
| | - Homaira Hamidzada
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5G1L7, Canada
- Ted Rogers Centre for Heart Research, Translational Biology and Engineering Program, Toronto, ON, M5G1L7, Canada
- Department of Immunology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5G1L7, Canada
| | - Slava Epelman
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5G1L7, Canada
- Ted Rogers Centre for Heart Research, Translational Biology and Engineering Program, Toronto, ON, M5G1L7, Canada
- Department of Immunology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5G1L7, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5G1L7, Canada
- Peter Munk Cardiac Centre, University Health Networ, Toronto, ON, M5G1L7, Canada
| | - Gordon Keller
- McEwen Stem Cell Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, M5G1L7, Canada.
- Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5G1L7, Canada.
- Princess Margaret Cancer Center, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, M5G1L7, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Li S, Tao G. Perish in the Attempt: Regulated Cell Death in Regenerative and Nonregenerative Tissue. Antioxid Redox Signal 2023; 39:1053-1069. [PMID: 37218435 PMCID: PMC10715443 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2022.0166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Significance: A cell plays its roles throughout its life span, even during its demise. Regulated cell death (RCD) is one of the key topics in modern biomedical studies. It is considered the main approach for removing stressed and/or damaged cells. Research during the past two decades revealed more roles of RCD, such as coordinating tissue development and driving compensatory proliferation during tissue repair. Recent Advances: Compensatory proliferation, initially identified in primitive organisms during the regeneration of lost tissue, is an evolutionarily conserved process that also functions in mammals. Among various types of RCD, apoptosis is considered the top candidate to induce compensatory proliferation in damaged tissue. Critical Issues: The roles of apoptosis in the recovery of nonregenerative tissue are still vague. The roles of other types of RCD, such as necroptosis and ferroptosis, have not been well characterized in the context of tissue regeneration. Future Directions: In this review article, we attempt to summarize the recent insights on the role of RCD in tissue repair. We focus on apoptosis, with expansion to ferroptosis and necroptosis, in primitive organisms with significant regenerative capacity as well as common mammalian research models. After gathering hints from regenerative tissue, in the second half of the review, we take a notoriously nonregenerative tissue, the myocardium, as an example to discuss the role of RCD in terminally differentiated quiescent cells. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 39, 1053-1069.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shuang Li
- Department of Regenerative Medicine and Cell Biology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Ge Tao
- Department of Regenerative Medicine and Cell Biology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Wang HF, Du XJ, Zhang YY, Xiao H. New perspective on the mechanisms of cardiac fibrosis. Sci Bull (Beijing) 2023; 68:2704-2708. [PMID: 37884427 DOI: 10.1016/j.scib.2023.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Hai-Fan Wang
- Department of Cardiology and Institute of Vascular Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China; State Key Laboratory of Vascular Homeostasis and Remodeling, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Molecular Biology and Regulatory Peptides, Beijing 100191, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Receptors Research, Beijing 100191, China; Search Unit of Medical Science Research Management/Basic and Clinical Research of Metabolic Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100191, China; Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Xiao-Jun Du
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne 8008, Australia; School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, and Cardiometabolic Innovation Center (Ministry of Education), Xi'an 710061, China
| | - You-Yi Zhang
- Department of Cardiology and Institute of Vascular Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China; State Key Laboratory of Vascular Homeostasis and Remodeling, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Molecular Biology and Regulatory Peptides, Beijing 100191, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Receptors Research, Beijing 100191, China; Search Unit of Medical Science Research Management/Basic and Clinical Research of Metabolic Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Han Xiao
- Department of Cardiology and Institute of Vascular Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China; State Key Laboratory of Vascular Homeostasis and Remodeling, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Molecular Biology and Regulatory Peptides, Beijing 100191, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Receptors Research, Beijing 100191, China; Search Unit of Medical Science Research Management/Basic and Clinical Research of Metabolic Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100191, China; Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Endemic and Ethnic Diseases (Ministry of Education), Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi 832003, China.
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Kattih B, Boeckling F, Shumliakivska M, Tombor L, Rasper T, Schmitz K, Hoffmann J, Nicin L, Abplanalp WT, Carstens DC, Arsalan M, Emrich F, Holubec T, Walther T, Puntmann VO, Nagel E, John D, Zeiher AM, Dimmeler S. Single-nuclear transcriptome profiling identifies persistent fibroblast activation in hypertrophic and failing human hearts of patients with longstanding disease. Cardiovasc Res 2023; 119:2550-2562. [PMID: 37648651 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvad140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS Cardiac fibrosis drives the progression of heart failure in ischaemic and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Therefore, the development of specific anti-fibrotic treatment regimens to counteract cardiac fibrosis is of high clinical relevance. Hence, this study examined the presence of persistent fibroblast activation during longstanding human heart disease at a single-cell resolution to identify putative therapeutic targets to counteract pathological cardiac fibrosis in patients. METHODS AND RESULTS We used single-nuclei RNA sequencing with human tissues from two samples of one healthy donor, and five hypertrophic and two failing hearts. Unsupervised sub-clustering of 7110 nuclei led to the identification of 7 distinct fibroblast clusters. De-convolution of cardiac fibroblast heterogeneity revealed a distinct population of human cardiac fibroblasts with a molecular signature of persistent fibroblast activation and a transcriptional switch towards a pro-fibrotic extra-cellular matrix composition in patients with established cardiac hypertrophy and heart failure. This sub-cluster was characterized by high expression of POSTN, RUNX1, CILP, and a target gene adipocyte enhancer-binding protein 1 (AEBP1) (all P < 0.001). Strikingly, elevated circulating AEBP1 blood level were also detected in a validation cohort of patients with confirmed cardiac fibrosis and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy by cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (P < 0.01). Since endogenous AEBP1 expression was increased in patients with established cardiac hypertrophy and heart failure, we assessed the functional consequence of siRNA-mediated AEBP1 silencing in human cardiac fibroblasts. Indeed, AEBP1 silencing reduced proliferation, migration, and fibroblast contractile capacity and α-SMA gene expression, which is a hallmark of fibroblast activation (all P < 0.05). Mechanistically, the anti-fibrotic effects of AEBP1 silencing were linked to transforming growth factor-beta pathway modulation. CONCLUSION Together, this study identifies persistent fibroblast activation in patients with longstanding heart disease, which might be detected by circulating AEBP1 and therapeutically modulated by its targeted silencing in human cardiac fibroblasts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Badder Kattih
- Goethe University Frankfurt, Institute for Cardiovascular Regeneration, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Goethe University Frankfurt, University Hospital, Department of Cardiology, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research, Partner Site Rhine-Main, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Felicitas Boeckling
- Goethe University Frankfurt, Institute for Cardiovascular Regeneration, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Goethe University Frankfurt, University Hospital, Department of Cardiology, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research, Partner Site Rhine-Main, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Mariana Shumliakivska
- Goethe University Frankfurt, Institute for Cardiovascular Regeneration, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research, Partner Site Rhine-Main, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Lukas Tombor
- Goethe University Frankfurt, Institute for Cardiovascular Regeneration, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Tina Rasper
- Goethe University Frankfurt, Institute for Cardiovascular Regeneration, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Katja Schmitz
- Goethe University Frankfurt, Institute for Cardiovascular Regeneration, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research, Partner Site Rhine-Main, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Jedrzej Hoffmann
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research, Partner Site Rhine-Main, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Goethe University Frankfurt, University Hospital, Centre for Cardiovascular Imaging, Institute of Experimental and Translational Cardiovascular Imaging, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Luka Nicin
- Goethe University Frankfurt, Institute for Cardiovascular Regeneration, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Wesley T Abplanalp
- Goethe University Frankfurt, Institute for Cardiovascular Regeneration, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Daniel C Carstens
- Goethe University Frankfurt, Institute for Cardiovascular Regeneration, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research, Partner Site Rhine-Main, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Mani Arsalan
- Goethe University Frankfurt, University Hospital, Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, Frankfurt 60590, Germany
| | - Fabian Emrich
- Goethe University Frankfurt, University Hospital, Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, Frankfurt 60590, Germany
| | - Tomas Holubec
- Goethe University Frankfurt, University Hospital, Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, Frankfurt 60590, Germany
| | - Thomas Walther
- Goethe University Frankfurt, University Hospital, Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, Frankfurt 60590, Germany
| | - Valentina O Puntmann
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research, Partner Site Rhine-Main, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Goethe University Frankfurt, University Hospital, Centre for Cardiovascular Imaging, Institute of Experimental and Translational Cardiovascular Imaging, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Eike Nagel
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research, Partner Site Rhine-Main, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Goethe University Frankfurt, University Hospital, Centre for Cardiovascular Imaging, Institute of Experimental and Translational Cardiovascular Imaging, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - David John
- Goethe University Frankfurt, Institute for Cardiovascular Regeneration, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research, Partner Site Rhine-Main, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Andreas M Zeiher
- Goethe University Frankfurt, Institute for Cardiovascular Regeneration, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research, Partner Site Rhine-Main, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Stefanie Dimmeler
- Goethe University Frankfurt, Institute for Cardiovascular Regeneration, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research, Partner Site Rhine-Main, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| |
Collapse
|