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Timmer KB, Killian ML, Harley BAC. Paracrine signals influence patterns of fibrocartilage differentiation in a lyophilized gelatin hydrogel for applications in rotator cuff repair. Biomater Sci 2024. [PMID: 39150417 DOI: 10.1039/d4bm00543k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/17/2024]
Abstract
Rotator cuff injuries present a clinical challenge for repair due to current limitations in functional regeneration of the native tendon-to-bone enthesis. A biomaterial that can regionally instruct unique tissue-specific phenotypes offers potential to promote enthesis repair. We have recently demonstrated the mechanical benefits of a stratified triphasic biomaterial made up of tendon- and bone-mimetic collagen scaffold compartments connected via a continuous hydrogel, and we now explore the potential of a biologically favorable enthesis hydrogel for this application. Here we report in vitro behavior of human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) within thiolated gelatin (Gel-SH) hydrogels in response to chondrogenic stimuli as well as paracrine signals derived from MSC-seeded bone and tendon scaffold compartments. Chondrogenic differentiation media promoted upregulation of cartilage and entheseal fibrocartilage matrix markers COL2, COLX, and ACAN as well as the enthesis-associated transcription factors SCX, SOX9, and RUNX2 in hMSCs within Gel-SH. Similar effects were observed in response to TGF-β3 and BMP-4, enthesis-associated growth factors known to play a role in entheseal development and maintenance. Conditioned media generated by hMSCs seeded in tendon- and bone-mimetic collagen scaffolds influenced patterns of gene expression regarding enthesis-relevant growth factors, matrix markers, and tendon-to-bone transcription factors for hMSCs within the material. Together, these findings demonstrate that a Gel-SH hydrogel provides a permissive environment for enthesis tissue engineering and highlights the significance of cellular crosstalk between adjacent compartments within a spatially graded biomaterial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyle B Timmer
- Dept. Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, 110 Roger Adams Laboratory, 600 S. Mathews Ave., Urbana, IL 61801, USA.
| | - Megan L Killian
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Michigan Ann Arbor, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan Ann Arbor, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA
| | - Brendan A C Harley
- Dept. Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, 110 Roger Adams Laboratory, 600 S. Mathews Ave., Urbana, IL 61801, USA.
- Cancer Center at Illinois, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
- Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
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2
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Mekala S, Rai R, Reed SL, Bowen B, Michalopoulos GK, Locker J, Raeman R, Oertel M. Antagonizing Activin A/p15 INK4b Signaling as Therapeutic Strategy for Liver Disease. Cells 2024; 13:649. [PMID: 38607090 PMCID: PMC11011318 DOI: 10.3390/cells13070649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIM Activin A is involved in the pathogenesis of human liver diseases, but its therapeutic targeting is not fully explored. Here, we tested the effect of novel, highly specific small-molecule-based activin A antagonists (NUCC-474/555) in improving liver regeneration following partial hepatectomy and halting fibrosis progression in models of chronic liver diseases (CLDs). METHODS Cell toxicity of antagonists was determined in rat hepatocytes and Huh-7 cells using the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide assay. Hepatocytes and hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) were treated with activin A and NUCC-555 and analyzed by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemistry. Partial hepatectomized Fisher (F)344 rats were treated with NUCC-555, and bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) incorporation was determined at 18/24/36/120/240 h. NUCC-555 was administered into thioacetamide- or carbon tetrachloride-treated F344 rats or C57BL/6 mice, and the fibrosis progression was studied. RESULTS NUCC-474 showed higher cytotoxicity in cultured hepatic cells; therefore, NUCC-555 was used in subsequent studies. Activin A-stimulated overexpression of cell cycle-/senescence-related genes (e.g., p15INK4b, DEC1, Glb1) was near-completely reversed by NUCC-555 in hepatocytes. Activin A-mediated HSC activation was blocked by NUCC-555. In partial hepatectomized rats, antagonizing activin A signaling resulted in a 1.9-fold and 2.3-fold increase in BrdU+ cells at 18 and 24 h, respectively. Administration of NUCC-555 in rats and mice with progressing fibrosis significantly reduced collagen accumulation (7.9-fold), HSC activation indicated by reduced alpha smooth muscle actin+ and vimentin+ cells, and serum aminotransferase activity. CONCLUSIONS Our studies demonstrate that activin A antagonist NUCC-555 promotes liver regeneration and halts fibrosis progression in CLD models, suggesting that blocking activin A signaling may represent a new approach to treating people with CLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sowmya Mekala
- Department of Pathology, Division of Experimental Pathology, University of Pittsburgh, 200 Lothrop Street—BST S-404, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA (R.R.); (G.K.M.); (R.R.)
| | - Ravi Rai
- Department of Pathology, Division of Experimental Pathology, University of Pittsburgh, 200 Lothrop Street—BST S-404, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA (R.R.); (G.K.M.); (R.R.)
| | - Samantha Loretta Reed
- Department of Pathology, Division of Experimental Pathology, University of Pittsburgh, 200 Lothrop Street—BST S-404, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA (R.R.); (G.K.M.); (R.R.)
| | - Bill Bowen
- Department of Pathology, Division of Experimental Pathology, University of Pittsburgh, 200 Lothrop Street—BST S-404, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA (R.R.); (G.K.M.); (R.R.)
| | - George K. Michalopoulos
- Department of Pathology, Division of Experimental Pathology, University of Pittsburgh, 200 Lothrop Street—BST S-404, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA (R.R.); (G.K.M.); (R.R.)
- Pittsburgh Liver Research Center (PLRC), University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
- McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15219, USA
| | - Joseph Locker
- Department of Pathology, Division of Experimental Pathology, University of Pittsburgh, 200 Lothrop Street—BST S-404, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA (R.R.); (G.K.M.); (R.R.)
- Pittsburgh Liver Research Center (PLRC), University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - Reben Raeman
- Department of Pathology, Division of Experimental Pathology, University of Pittsburgh, 200 Lothrop Street—BST S-404, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA (R.R.); (G.K.M.); (R.R.)
- Pittsburgh Liver Research Center (PLRC), University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - Michael Oertel
- Department of Pathology, Division of Experimental Pathology, University of Pittsburgh, 200 Lothrop Street—BST S-404, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA (R.R.); (G.K.M.); (R.R.)
- Pittsburgh Liver Research Center (PLRC), University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
- McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15219, USA
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3
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Do VG, Yang MS. Production of Mature Recombinant Human Activin A in Transgenic Rice Cell Suspension Culture. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2024; 46:1164-1176. [PMID: 38392192 PMCID: PMC10888380 DOI: 10.3390/cimb46020074] [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: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Activin A belongs to the transforming growth factor (TGF) family member, which exhibits a wide range of biological activities, including the regulation of cellular proliferation and differentiation and the promotion of neuronal survival. The isolation of AA from natural sources can only produce limited quantities of this bioactive protein. In this study, the whole gene of the precursor form of recombinant human activin A (rhAA) contains a signal peptide, and a pro-region and a mature region were cloned into an expression vector under the control of the rice α-amylase 3D (RAmy3D) promoter. To obtain the mature (active) form of rhAA, an enterokinase cleavage site was inserted between the pro-region and mature region of rhAA. The rice seed (Oryza sativa L. cv. Dongjin) was transformed with recombinant vectors by the Agrobacterium-mediated method, and the integration of the target gene into the plant genome was confirmed by genomic PCR. The transcript expression of rhAA in transgenic rice calli was confirmed by a Northern blot analysis of mRNA. The production of rhAA was verified by Western blot analysis and ELISA. The accumulation of secreted rhAA in the culture medium was purified by Ni2+-NTA. The mature form of AA was released from the precursor form of rhAA after proteolytically processing with enterokinase. Western blot shows that the mature AA was split into monomer and homodimer with molecular weights of 14 kDa and 28 kDa under reducing and non-reducing conditions, respectively. These results suggest that the mature form of rhAA could be produced and purified using transgenic rice cell suspension culture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Van Giap Do
- Apple Research Institute, National Institute of Horticultural and Herbal Science, Rural Development Administration, Daegu 39000, Republic of Korea
- Department of Bioactive Material Science, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju 54896, Republic of Korea
| | - Moon-Sik Yang
- Department of Bioactive Material Science, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju 54896, Republic of Korea
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McMinn PH, Ahmed A, Huttenlocher A, Beebe DJ, Kerr SC. The lymphatic endothelium-derived follistatin: activin A axis regulates neutrophil motility in response to Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Integr Biol (Camb) 2023; 15:zyad003. [PMID: 36781971 PMCID: PMC10101905 DOI: 10.1093/intbio/zyad003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
Abstract
The lymphatic system plays an active role during infection, however the role of lymphatic-neutrophil interactions in host-defense responses is not well understood. During infection with pathogens such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus and Yersinia pestis, neutrophils traffic from sites of infection through the lymphatic vasculature, to draining lymph nodes to interact with resident lymphocytes. This process is poorly understood, in part, due to the lack of in vitro models of the lymphatic system. Here we use a 3D microscale lymphatic vessel model to examine neutrophil-lymphatic cell interactions during host defense responses to pathogens. In previous work, we have shown that follistatin is secreted at high concentrations by lymphatic endothelial cells during inflammation. Follistatin inhibits activin A, a member of the TGF-β superfamily, and, together, these molecules form a signaling pathway that plays a role in regulating both innate and adaptive immune responses. Although follistatin and activin A are constitutively produced in the pituitary, gonads and skin, their major source in the serum and their effects on neutrophils are poorly understood. Here we report a microfluidic model that includes both blood and lymphatic endothelial vessels, and neutrophils to investigate neutrophil-lymphatic trafficking during infection with P. aeruginosa. We found that lymphatic endothelial cells produce secreted factors that increase neutrophil migration toward P. aeruginosa, and are a significant source of both follistatin and activin A during Pseudomonas infection. We determined that follistatin produced by lymphatic endothelial cells inhibits activin A, resulting in increased neutrophil migration. These data suggest that the follistatin:activin A ratio influences neutrophil trafficking during infection with higher ratios increasing neutrophil migration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick H McMinn
- Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Adeel Ahmed
- Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Anna Huttenlocher
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - David J Beebe
- Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Sheena C Kerr
- Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
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5
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Zhao J, Ding C, Li HB. N 6 - Methyladenosine defines a new checkpoint in γδ T cell development. Bioessays 2023; 45:e2300002. [PMID: 36942692 DOI: 10.1002/bies.202300002] [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: 01/05/2023] [Revised: 03/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023]
Abstract
T cells, which are derived from hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs), are the most important components of adaptive immune system. Based on the expression of αβ and γδ receptors, T cells are mainly divided into αβ and γδ T cells. In the thymus, they share common progenitor cells, while undergoing a series of well-characterized and different developmental processes. N6 -Methyladenosine (m6 A), one of the most abundant modifications in mRNAs, plays critical roles in cell development and maintenance of function. Recently, we have demonstrated that the depletion of m6 A demethylase ALKBH5 in lymphocytes specifically induces an expansion of γδ T cells through the regulation of Jag1/Notch2 signaling, but not αβ T cells, indicating a checkpoint role of ALKBH5 and m6 A modification in the early development of γδ T cells. Based on previous studies, many key pathway molecules, which exert dominant roles in γδ T cell fate determination, have been identified as the targets regulated by m6 A modification. In this review, we mainly summarize the potential regulation between m6 A modification and these key signaling molecules in the γδ T cell lineage commitment, to provide new perspectives in the checkpoint of γδ T cell development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiachen Zhao
- Shanghai Institute of Immunology, State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Chenbo Ding
- Shanghai Institute of Immunology, State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine-Yale Institute for Immune Metabolism, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hua-Bing Li
- Shanghai Institute of Immunology, State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine-Yale Institute for Immune Metabolism, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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6
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Murata T, Chiba S, Kawaminami M. Activin A specifically suppresses the expression of annexin A5 mRNA and augments gonadotropin-releasing hormone stimulation of A1 expression in LβT2 gonadotrope cells. Endocr J 2022; 69:1193-1200. [PMID: 35584931 DOI: 10.1507/endocrj.ej22-0095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently, we reported that gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) stimulates annexin A1 (Anxa1) and A5 (Anxa5) mRNA expression through the GnRH-receptor-mitogen-activated protein kinase cascade in LβT2 cells. As LβT2 cells respond to activin, we examined the effect of activin A on Anxa1 and a5 expression in LβT2 cells. Activin A (0.4 and 4 ng/mL) treatment decreased Anxa5 mRNA levels in a dose-dependent manner, but did not affect Anxa1 mRNA levels at concentrations up to 40 ng/mL. After activin A treatment (4 ng/mL), Anxa5 mRNA levels significantly decreased at 6 h, gradually declined until 24 h, and remained low until 48 h, whereas Anxa1 mRNA levels did not significantly change following treatment. Pretreatment with activin A for 24 h increased GnRH agonist (GnRHa)-induced Anxa1 increase by approximately 7-fold compared with GnRHa stimulation alone, but Anxa5 was not affected. As previously reported, these activin A treatments increased gonadotropin β subunit and GnRH receptor mRNA levels and slightly decreased common α-glycoprotein subunit mRNA levels. Furthermore, we examined the effect of activin A on Nr4a3, which is repressed by ANXA5 and which reduces Fshb expression, and found that activin A augmented Nr4a3 expression and slightly decreased the GnRHa-induced increase in Nr4a3. These results suggest that in gonadotrope cells, the mechanism regulating Anxa1 and a5 expression is differentially coupled with activin A signal transduction. Activin A suppresses Anxa5 expression under increased Nr4a3 expression, whereas activin A and GnRH synergistically stimulate Anxa1 expression. These GnRH-inducible annexins may have different specific functions in gonadotropes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takuya Murata
- Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Okayama University of Science, Ehime 794-8555, Japan
| | - Shuichi Chiba
- Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Okayama University of Science, Ehime 794-8555, Japan
| | - Mitsumori Kawaminami
- Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Okayama University of Science, Ehime 794-8555, Japan
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7
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Staudacher JJ, Arnold A, Kühl AA, Pötzsch M, Daum S, Winterfeld M, Berg E, Hummel M, Rau B, Stein U, Treese C. Prognostic impact of activin subunit inhibin beta A in gastric and esophageal adenocarcinomas. BMC Cancer 2022; 22:953. [PMID: 36064338 PMCID: PMC9446826 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-022-10016-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Adenocarcinomas of the esophagus (AEG) and stomach (AS) are among the most common cancers worldwide. Novel markers for risk stratification and guiding treatment are strongly needed. Activin is a multi-functional cytokine with context specific pro- and anti-tumorigenic effects. We aimed to investigate the prognostic role of activin tumor protein expression in AEG/ASs. METHODS Tissue from a retrospective cohort of 277 patients with AEG/AS treated primarily by surgery at the Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin was collected and analyzed by immunohistochemistry using a specific antibody to the activin homodimer inhibin beta A. Additionally, we evaluated T-cell infiltration and PD1 expression as well as expression of PD-L1 by immunohistochemistry as possible confounding factors. Clinico-pathologic data were collected and correlated with activin protein expression. RESULTS Out of 277 tumor samples, 72 (26.0%) exhibited high activin subunit inhibin beta A protein expression. Higher expression was correlated with lower Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) stage and longer overall survival. Interestingly, activin subunit expression correlated with CD4+ T-cell infiltration, and the correlation with higher overall survival was exclusively seen in tumors with high CD4+ T-cell infiltration, pointing towards a role of activin in the tumor immune response in AEG/ASs. CONCLUSION In our cohort of AEG/AS, higher activin subunit levels were correlated with longer overall survival, an effect exclusively seen in tumors with high CD4+ cell infiltration. Further mechanistic research is warranted discerning the exact effect of this context specific cytokine.
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Affiliation(s)
- J J Staudacher
- Medical Department, Division of Gastroenterology, Infectious Diseases and Rheumatology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Berlin, Germany.
- Berlin Institute of Health at Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz1, 10117, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Alexander Arnold
- Institute of Pathology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - A A Kühl
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, iPATH.Berlin, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Berlin, Germany
| | - M Pötzsch
- Medical Department, Division of Gastroenterology, Infectious Diseases and Rheumatology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Berlin, Germany
| | - S Daum
- Medical Department, Division of Gastroenterology, Infectious Diseases and Rheumatology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Berlin, Germany
- Berlin Institute of Health at Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz1, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - M Winterfeld
- Institute of Pathology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - E Berg
- Institute of Pathology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - M Hummel
- Institute of Pathology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - B Rau
- Department of Surgery, Campus Virchow-Klinikum and Campus Mitte, Charité - Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
| | - U Stein
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin and Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, Berlin, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - C Treese
- Medical Department, Division of Gastroenterology, Infectious Diseases and Rheumatology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Berlin, Germany
- Berlin Institute of Health at Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz1, 10117, Berlin, Germany
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Murata T, Chiba S, Kawaminami M. Changes in the expressions of annexin A1, annexin A5, inhibin/activin subunits, and vitamin D receptor mRNAs in pituitary glands of female rats during the estrous cycle: correlation analyses among these factors. J Vet Med Sci 2022; 84:1065-1073. [PMID: 35705304 PMCID: PMC9412066 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.22-0141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Pituitary gonadotropin secretion is regulated by several pituitary factors as well as
GnRH and ovarian hormones. To elucidate the regulatory mechanisms of pituitary
gonadotropin secretions, we observed changes in the mRNA levels of pituitary factors,
namely annexin A1 (Anxa1) and Anxa5, inhibin/activin
subunits, follistatin (Fst), and vitamin D receptor
(Vdr), in female rat pituitary glands during the estrous cycle.
Additionally, levels of LHβ subunit (Lhb), FSHβ subunit
(Fshb), and GnRH receptor (Gnrh-r) mRNA were examined.
During proestrus, Anxa1, Anxa5, Vdr, and inhibin α-subunit
(Inha) exhibited the lowest levels, while during estrus, activin
βB-subunit (Actbb), Lhb, and Gnrh-r
were the lowest. Moreover, Fshb exhibited the highest value during
metestrus, whereas Fst did not differ significantly. Correlation analyses
revealed 16 statistically significant gene combinations. In particular, four combinations,
namely Anxa5 and Inha, Anxa5 and Actbb,
Inha and Vdr, and Inha and Actbb, were highly
significant (P<0.0001), while four combinations,
Anxa1 and Anxa5, Anxa1 and Vdr,
Anxa5 and Vdr, and Lhb and
Gnrh-r, were moderately significant (P<0.001). The
remaining eight combinations that exhibited statistical significance were
Anxa1 and Inha, Anxa1 and Actbb,
Vdr and Actbb, Anxa1 and
Fshb, Inha and Lhb, Actbb and
Fshb, Actbb and Lhb, and
Fst and Fshb (P<0.05). These
results highlight strong correlations among Anxa1, Anxa5, Vdr, Inha, and
Actbb, thereby suggesting that an interaction among ANXA1, ANXA5, and
VDR may lead to further communications with inhibin and/or activin in the pituitary
gland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takuya Murata
- Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Okayama University of Science
| | - Shuichi Chiba
- Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Okayama University of Science
| | - Mitsumori Kawaminami
- Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Okayama University of Science
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9
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Extracellular vesicles in mammalian reproduction: a review. ZYGOTE 2022; 30:440-463. [PMID: 35652626 DOI: 10.1017/s0967199422000090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Over the last decades, extracellular vesicles (EVs) have been found to be implicated in a complex universal mechanism of communication between different cell types. EVs are nanostructures of lipid nature that have an exosomal or ectosomal biogenesis, responsible for the intercellular transport of proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, nucleic acids, ions, among other molecules. The content of EVs can vary due to various factors such as hormonal stimuli, non-physiological conditions, metabolic state, etc. Once EVs reach their target cell, they can modulate processes such as gene expression, metabolism, response to external factors, and can even be associated with the delivery of molecules involved in epigenetic inheritance processes in germ cells. In mammalian reproduction, EVs have been shown to play an important role, either in vivo or in vitro, modulating a variety of processes in sperm, oocytes and embryos, and in their respective environments. Moreover, EVs represent a biodegradable, harmless and specific vehicle, which makes them attractive allies to consider when improving assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs). Therefore, the present review aims to describe the content of the main EVs involved in mammalian reproduction and how they can vary due to different factors, as well as to detail how EVs modulate, directly or indirectly, different molecular processes in gametes and embryos. In addition, we will highlight the mechanisms that remain to be elucidated. We will also propose new perspectives according to the characteristics of each particular EV to improve the different ARTs.
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Lv X, Chen J, He J, Hou L, Ren Y, Shen X, Wang Y, Ji T, Cai X. Gasdermin D-mediated pyroptosis suppresses liver regeneration after 70% partial hepatectomy. Hepatol Commun 2022; 6:2340-2353. [PMID: 35509206 PMCID: PMC9426395 DOI: 10.1002/hep4.1973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 03/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Pyroptosis is a kind of programmed cell death primarily mediated by gasdermin D (GSDMD) and shown to regulate multiple diseases. However, its contribution to liver regeneration, a fine‐tuned tissue repair process mediated primarily by hepatocytes after mass loss, remains unclear. Herein, we found that caspase‐11/GSDMD‐mediated pyroptosis was activated in regenerating liver after 70% partial hepatectomy. Impeding pyroptosis by deleting GSDMD significantly reduced liver injury and accelerated liver regeneration. Mechanistically, GSDMD deficiency up‐regulates the activation of hepatocyte growth factor/c‐Met and epidermal growth factor receptor mitogenic pathways at the initiation phase. Moreover, activin A and glypican 3 (GPC3), two terminators of liver regeneration, were inhibited when GSDMD was absent. In vitro study suggested the expressions of activin A and GPC3 were induced by interleukin (IL)–1β and IL‐18, whose maturations were regulated by GSDMD‐mediated pyroptosis. Similarly, pharmacologically inhibiting GSDMD recapitulates these phenomena. Conclusion: This study characterizes the role of GSDMD‐mediated pyroptosis in liver regeneration and lays the foundation for enhancing liver restoration by targeting GSDMD in liver patients with impaired regenerative capacity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingyu Lv
- Department of General Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Laparoscopic Technology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jiang Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Laparoscopic Technology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jiayan He
- Department of General Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Laparoscopic Technology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lidan Hou
- Department of General Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Laparoscopic Technology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yiyue Ren
- Department of General Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Laparoscopic Technology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoyun Shen
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Laparoscopic Technology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yifan Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Laparoscopic Technology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Tong Ji
- Department of General Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Laparoscopic Technology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiujun Cai
- Department of General Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Laparoscopic Technology, Hangzhou, China
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11
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Kawagishi-Hotta M, Hasegawa S, Hasebe Y, Inoue Y, Okuno R, Arima M, Iwata Y, Sugiura K, Akamatsu H. Increase in Inhibin beta A/Activin-A expression in the human epidermis and the suppression of epidermal stem/progenitor cell proliferation with aging. J Dermatol Sci 2022; 106:150-158. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jdermsci.2022.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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12
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Che J, Hu C, Wang Q, Fan C, Si Y, Gong X, Bao B. The double mutations of acvr2aa and acvr2ba leads to muscle hypertrophy in zebrafish. AQUACULTURE AND FISHERIES 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.aaf.2022.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/07/2022]
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13
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Yu Z, Cheng L, Liu X, Zhang L, Cao H. Increased Expression of INHBA Is Correlated With Poor Prognosis and High Immune Infiltrating Level in Breast Cancer. FRONTIERS IN BIOINFORMATICS 2022; 2:729902. [PMID: 36304286 PMCID: PMC9580937 DOI: 10.3389/fbinf.2022.729902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Inhibin, beta A (INHBA) is a member of the transforming growth factor-β superfamily and is associated with carcinogenesis and cancer progression in several types of human cancers. However, its significance in breast cancer has not been evaluated. Here, we investigated the prognostic value of INHBA and its correlation with tumor-infiltration immune cells in the microenvironment of breast cancer. Methods: In this study, we analyzed the INHBA expression profile in the Oncomine database and Tumor Immune Estimation Resource 2.0 (TIMER2.0) site. Using Breast Cancer Gene-Expression Miner (bc-GenExMiner v4.7) tool and the UALCAN cancer database, we further evaluated the correlation of INHBA expression with clinicopathological factors in breast cancer. Then, we assessed the clinical prognostic value of INHBA using Kaplan–Meier Plotter and the PrognoScan databases. The correlations between INHBA and tumor-infiltrating immune cells were investigated via TIMER2.0. In addition, correlations between INHBA expression and gene markers of immune infiltrates were analyzed by TIMER2.0 and Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis 2. Results: Compared with the level in normal tissues, the INHBA mRNA expression was upregulated in different subtypes of breast cancer, and its expression was positively correlated with progesterone receptor, human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 status, and PAM50 subtypes but negatively related to age and basal-like status. The INHBA protein was also highly expressed in primary breast cancer and closely related to the pathological stage. Patients with high INHBA expression levels showed worse overall survival, relapse-free survival, and distant metastasis-free survival. Also, high INHBA expression was significantly associated with worse overall survival and relapse-free survival in positive lymph nodes. Of interest, INHBA expression was negatively correlated with infiltrating levels of activated NK cells, NKT, and CD4+ T cells but was positively correlated with tumor infiltration of CD8+ T cells, neutrophils, especially macrophages and cancer-associated fibroblasts. Moreover, INHBA expression showed strong correlations with various markers of monocytes/macrophages and cancer-associated fibroblasts. Conclusion: High INHBA expression is correlated with poor prognosis and the infiltration of immune cells in the tumor microenvironment. These findings suggest that INHBA may be involved in immune escape and can serve as a potential biomarker of prognosis and tumor-infiltrating immune cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeying Yu
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Science, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
| | - Li Cheng
- School of Basic Medical Science, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
| | - Xinlian Liu
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Science, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
| | - Lushun Zhang
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Science, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
| | - Hui Cao
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Science, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Hui Cao,
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14
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Metformin suppresses the growth of colorectal cancer by targeting INHBA to inhibit TGF-β/PI3K/AKT signaling transduction. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:202. [PMID: 35236827 PMCID: PMC8891354 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-04649-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Multiple evidence shows that metformin serves as a potential agent for Colorectal Cancer (CRC) treatment, while its molecular mechanisms still require detailed investigation. Here, we revealed that metformin specifically suppressed the proliferation of CRC cells by causing G1/S arrest, and INHBA is a potential target for metformin to play an anti-proliferation effect in CRC. We verified the oncogene role of INHBA by knocking down and overexpressing INHBA in CRC cells. Silencing INHBA abrogated the cell growth, while overexpression INHBA promotes the proliferation of CRC cells. As an oncogene, INHBA was aberrant overexpression in CRC tissues and closely related to the poor prognosis of CRC patients. In mechanism, INHBA is an important ligand of TGF-β signaling and metformin blocked the activation of TGF-β signaling by targeting INHBA, and then down-regulated the activity of PI3K/Akt pathway, leading to the reduction of cyclinD1 and cell cycle arrest. Together, these findings indicate that metformin down-regulates the expression of INHBA, then attenuating TGF-β/PI3K/Akt signaling transduction, thus inhibiting the proliferation of CRC. Our study elucidated a novel molecular mechanism for the anti-proliferation effect of metformin, providing a theoretical basis for the application of metformin in CRC therapy.
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15
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Dhakal P, Tsunoda N, Nambo Y, Taniyama H, Nagaoka K, Watanabe G, Taya K. Circulating activin A during equine gestation and immunolocalization of its receptors system in utero-placental tissues and fetal gonads. J Equine Sci 2021; 32:39-48. [PMID: 34220270 PMCID: PMC8240525 DOI: 10.1294/jes.32.39] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Although equine gestation is unique from the standpoint of fetal gonadal enlargement and
regression, the activator of this process is still unknown. The present study aimed to
show a possible role of activin during equine gestation. In the first experiment, weekly
plasma samples from six pregnant mares were used to measure activin A. In the second
experiment, eight pregnant mares carrying female (gestational days 110, 140, 180, and 270)
and male fetuses (gestational days 120, 180, 225, and 314) were used for
immunohistochemistry of activin receptors (IA, IB, IIA, IIB), and their intracellular
mediators (Smad2, Smad3, Smad4). Activin A levels in maternal circulation remained low
until fourth weeks of gestation, thereafter, started to increase, and peaked first at 11
weeks of gestation. The second significant peak was observed on the day of parturition.
Activin receptors type IA, IB, IIA, and IIB were immunostained in interstitial and germ
cells of fetal ovaries and testes along with utero-placental tissues. Smad2, Smad3, and
Smad4 were also immunolocalized in all these organs. These results demonstrated the
activin-producing capacity of utero-placental tissues, and also evidenced the existence of
activin receptors and functional signaling molecules in these organs. The first increment
in circulating activin A in maternal circulation coinciding with the timing of initiation
of fetal gonadal enlargement suggests that activin from the utero-placental tissues may
have a stimulatory role in fetal gonad enlargement and utero-placental development in
mares, whereas the second peak could be important to follicular development in the
maternal ovary for foal heat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pramod Dhakal
- Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology, Cooperative Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo 183-8509, Japan.,Division of Animal Science, University of Missouri, MO 65211, U.S.A
| | | | - Yasuo Nambo
- United Graduate School of Veterinary Sciences, Gifu University, Gifu 501-1193, Japan.,Department of Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Taniyama
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, Rakuno Gakuen University, Hokkaido 069-8501, Japan
| | - Kentaro Nagaoka
- Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology, Cooperative Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo 183-8509, Japan.,United Graduate School of Veterinary Sciences, Gifu University, Gifu 501-1193, Japan.,Cooperative Division of Veterinary Sciences (Doctoral Program), Graduate School of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo 183-8509, Japan
| | - Gen Watanabe
- Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology, Cooperative Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo 183-8509, Japan.,United Graduate School of Veterinary Sciences, Gifu University, Gifu 501-1193, Japan.,Cooperative Division of Veterinary Sciences (Doctoral Program), Graduate School of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo 183-8509, Japan
| | - Kazuyoshi Taya
- Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology, Cooperative Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo 183-8509, Japan.,Shadai Corporation, Hokkaido 059-1432, Japan
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16
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Cancer cachexia: molecular mechanism and pharmacological management. Biochem J 2021; 478:1663-1688. [PMID: 33970218 DOI: 10.1042/bcj20201009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2020] [Revised: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Cancer cachexia often occurs in malignant tumors and is a multifactorial and complex symptom characterized by wasting of skeletal muscle and adipose tissue, resulting in weight loss, poor life quality and shorter survival. The pathogenic mechanism of cancer cachexia is complex, involving a variety of molecular substrates and signal pathways. Advancements in understanding the molecular mechanisms of cancer cachexia have provided a platform for the development of new targeted therapies. Although recent outcomes of early-phase trials have showed that several drugs presented an ideal curative effect, monotherapy cannot be entirely satisfactory in the treatment of cachexia-associated symptoms due to its complex and multifactorial pathogenesis. Therefore, the lack of definitive therapeutic strategies for cancer cachexia emphasizes the need to develop a better understanding of the underlying mechanisms. Increasing evidences show that the progression of cachexia is associated with metabolic alternations, which mainly include excessive energy expenditure, increased proteolysis and mitochondrial dysfunction. In this review, we provided an overview of the key mechanisms of cancer cachexia, with a major focus on muscle atrophy, adipose tissue wasting, anorexia and fatigue and updated the latest progress of pharmacological management of cancer cachexia, thereby further advancing the interventions that can counteract cancer cachexia.
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17
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Núñez-Carpintero I, Petrizzelli M, Zinovyev A, Cirillo D, Valencia A. The multilayer community structure of medulloblastoma. iScience 2021; 24:102365. [PMID: 33889829 PMCID: PMC8050854 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2021.102365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Revised: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Multilayer networks allow interpreting the molecular basis of diseases, which is particularly challenging in rare diseases where the number of cases is small compared with the size of the associated multi-omics datasets. In this work, we develop a dimensionality reduction methodology to identify the minimal set of genes that characterize disease subgroups based on their persistent association in multilayer network communities. We use this approach to the study of medulloblastoma, a childhood brain tumor, using proteogenomic data. Our approach is able to recapitulate known medulloblastoma subgroups (accuracy >94%) and provide a clear characterization of gene associations, with the downstream implications for diagnosis and therapeutic interventions. We verified the general applicability of our method on an independent medulloblastoma dataset (accuracy >98%). This approach opens the door to a new generation of multilayer network-based methods able to overcome the specific dimensionality limitations of rare disease datasets. The molecular interpretation of rare diseases is a challenging task Multilayer networks allow patient stratification and explainability We identify subgroup-specific genes and multilayer associations in medulloblastoma Multilayer community analysis enables the molecular interpretation of rare diseases
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marianyela Petrizzelli
- Institut Curie, PSL Research University, 75005 Paris, France
- INSERM, U900, 75005 Paris, France
- MINES ParisTech, PSL Research University, CBIO-Centre for Computational Biology, 75006 Paris, France
| | - Andrei Zinovyev
- Institut Curie, PSL Research University, 75005 Paris, France
- INSERM, U900, 75005 Paris, France
- MINES ParisTech, PSL Research University, CBIO-Centre for Computational Biology, 75006 Paris, France
- Lobachevsky University, 603000 Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
| | - Davide Cirillo
- Barcelona Supercomputing Center (BSC), C/ Jordi Girona 29, 08034, Barcelona, Spain
- Corresponding author
| | - Alfonso Valencia
- Barcelona Supercomputing Center (BSC), C/ Jordi Girona 29, 08034, Barcelona, Spain
- ICREA - Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats, Pg. Lluís Companys 23, 08010, Barcelona, Spain
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18
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Yadav RK, Minz E, Mehan S. Understanding Abnormal c-JNK/p38MAPK Signaling in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: Potential Drug Targets and Influences on Neurological Disorders. CNS & NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS-DRUG TARGETS 2021; 20:417-429. [PMID: 33557726 DOI: 10.2174/1871527320666210126113848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Revised: 09/29/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
c-JNK (c-Jun N-terminal kinase) and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) family members work in a cell-specific manner to regulate neuronal signals. The abnormal activation of these cellular signals can cause glutamate excitotoxicity, disrupted protein homeostasis, defective axonal transport, and synaptic dysfunction. Various pre-clinical and clinical findings indicate that the up-regulation of c-JNK and p38MAPK signaling is associated with neurological disorders. Exceptionally, a significant amount of experimental data has recently shown that dysregulated c-JNK and p38MAPK are implicated in the damage to the central nervous system, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Furthermore, currently available information has shown that c- JNK/p38MAPK signaling inhibitors may be a promising therapeutic alternative for improving histopathological, functional, and demyelination defects related to motor neuron disabilities. Understanding the abnormal activation of c-JNK/p38MAPK signaling and the prediction of motor neuron loss may help identify important therapeutic interventions that could prevent neurocomplications. Based on the involvement of c-JNK/p38MAPK signaling in the brain, we have assumed that the downregulation of the c-JNK/p38MAPK signaling pathway could trigger neuroprotection and neurotrophic effects towards clinicopathological presentations of ALS and other brain diseases. Thus, this research-based review also outlines the inhibition of c-JNK and p38MAPK signal downregulation in the pursuit of disease-modifying therapies for ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajeshwar Kumar Yadav
- Neuropharmacology Division, Department of Pharmacology, ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga, Punjab, India
| | - Elizabeth Minz
- Neuropharmacology Division, Department of Pharmacology, ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga, Punjab, India
| | - Sidharth Mehan
- Neuropharmacology Division, Department of Pharmacology, ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga, Punjab, India
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19
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Molecular Mechanisms of Renal Progenitor Regulation: How Many Pieces in the Puzzle? Cells 2021; 10:cells10010059. [PMID: 33401654 PMCID: PMC7823786 DOI: 10.3390/cells10010059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 12/26/2020] [Accepted: 12/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Kidneys of mice, rats and humans possess progenitors that maintain daily homeostasis and take part in endogenous regenerative processes following injury, owing to their capacity to proliferate and differentiate. In the glomerular and tubular compartments of the nephron, consistent studies demonstrated that well-characterized, distinct populations of progenitor cells, localized in the parietal epithelium of Bowman capsule and scattered in the proximal and distal tubules, could generate segment-specific cells in physiological conditions and following tissue injury. However, defective or abnormal regenerative responses of these progenitors can contribute to pathologic conditions. The molecular characteristics of renal progenitors have been extensively studied, revealing that numerous classical and evolutionarily conserved pathways, such as Notch or Wnt/β-catenin, play a major role in cell regulation. Others, such as retinoic acid, renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, TLR2 (Toll-like receptor 2) and leptin, are also important in this process. In this review, we summarize the plethora of molecular mechanisms directing renal progenitor responses during homeostasis and following kidney injury. Finally, we will explore how single-cell RNA sequencing could bring the characterization of renal progenitors to the next level, while knowing their molecular signature is gaining relevance in the clinic.
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20
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Zheng W, Wang Z, Jiang X, Zhao Q, Shen J. Targeted Drugs for Treatment of Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: Past, Present, and Future Perspectives. J Med Chem 2020; 63:15153-15186. [PMID: 33314936 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.0c01093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a devastating disease that can lead to right ventricular failure and premature death. Although approved drugs have been shown to be safe and effective, PAH remains a severe clinical condition, and the long-term survival of patients with PAH is still suboptimal. Thus, potential therapeutic targets and new agents to treat PAH are urgently needed. In recent years, a variety of related pathways and potential therapeutic targets have been found, which brings new hope for PAH therapy. In this perspective, not only are the marketed drugs used to treat PAH summarized but also the recently developed novel pharmaceutical therapies currently in clinical trials are discussed. Furthermore, the advances in natural products as potential treatment for PAH are also updated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zheng
- CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China.,School of Pharmacy, University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Zhen Wang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Xiangrui Jiang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Qingjie Zhao
- CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Jingshan Shen
- CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China.,School of Pharmacy, University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
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21
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Activin Receptor-Ligand Trap for the Treatment of β-thalassemia: A Serendipitous Discovery. Mediterr J Hematol Infect Dis 2020; 12:e2020075. [PMID: 33194149 PMCID: PMC7643807 DOI: 10.4084/mjhid.2020.075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2020] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
β-thalassemia is a hereditary disorder caused by defective production of β-globin chains of hemoglobin (Hb) that leads to an increased α/β globins ratio with subsequent free α-globins. Alpha globin excess causes oxidative stress, red blood cells membrane damage, premature death of late-stage erythroid precursors, resulting in ineffective erythropoiesis. The transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) superfamily signaling acts on biological processes, such as cell quiescence, apoptosis, proliferation, differentiation, and migration, and plays an essential role in regulating the hematopoiesis. This pathway can lose its physiologic regulation in pathologic conditions, leading to anemia and ineffective erythropoiesis. Activin receptor-ligand trap molecules such as Sotatercept and Luspatercept downregulate the TGF-β pathway, thus inhibiting the Smad2/3 cascade and alleviating anemia in patients with β-thalassemia and myelodysplastic syndromes. In this review, we describe in extenso the TGF-β pathway, as well as the molecular and biological basis of activin receptors ligand traps, focusing on their role in various β-thalassemia experimental models. The most recent results from clinical trials on sotatercept and luspatercept will also be reviewed.
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22
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Miyamoto Y, Schirripa M, Suenaga M, Cao S, Zhang W, Okazaki S, Berger MD, Matsusaka S, Yang D, Ning Y, Baba H, Loupakis F, Lonardi S, Pietrantonio F, Borelli B, Cremolini C, Yamaguchi T, Lenz HJ. A polymorphism in the cachexia-associated gene INHBA predicts efficacy of regorafenib in patients with refractory metastatic colorectal cancer. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0239439. [PMID: 32970737 PMCID: PMC7514061 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0239439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Activin/myostatin signaling has a critical role not only in cachexia but also in tumor angiogenesis. Cachexia is a frequent complication among patients with advanced cancer and heavily pretreated patients. We aimed to evaluate the prognostic significance of cachexia-associated genetic variants in refractory metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) patients treated with regorafenib. Associations between twelve single nucleotide polymorphisms in 8 genes (INHBA, MSTN, ALK4, TGFBR1, ALK7, ACVR2B, SMAD2, FOXO3) and clinical outcome were evaluated in mCRC patients of three cohorts: a discovery cohort of 150 patients receiving regorafenib, a validation cohort of 80 patients receiving regorafenib and a control cohort of 128 receiving TAS-102. In the discovery cohort, patients with any G variant in FOXO3 rs12212067 had a significantly lower response rate (P = 0.031) and overall survival (OS) than those with a T/T in univariate analysis (4.5 vs. 7.6 months, hazard ratio [HR] = 1.63, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.09-2.46, P = 0.012). Among female patients, those with any G variant in INHBA rs2237432 had a significantly longer OS than those with an A/A in both univariate (7.6 vs. 4.3 months, HR = 0.57, 95%CI = 0.34-0.95, P = 0.021) and multivariable (HR = 0.53, 95%CI = 0.29-0.94, adjusted P = 0.031) analysis. This association was confirmed in female patients of the validation cohort, though without statistical significance (P = 0.059). Conversely, female patients with any G allele in the control group receiving TAS-102 did not show a longer OS. This was the first study evaluating the associations between polymorphisms in cachexia-associated genes and outcomes in refractory mCRC patients treated with regorafenib. Further studies should be conducted to confirm these associations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuji Miyamoto
- Division of Medical Oncology, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States of America
| | - Marta Schirripa
- Division of Medical Oncology, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States of America
| | - Mitsukuni Suenaga
- Division of Medical Oncology, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States of America
| | - Shu Cao
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States of America
| | - Wu Zhang
- Division of Medical Oncology, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States of America
| | - Satoshi Okazaki
- Division of Medical Oncology, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States of America
| | - Martin D. Berger
- Division of Medical Oncology, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States of America
| | - Satoshi Matsusaka
- Division of Medical Oncology, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States of America
| | - Dongyun Yang
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States of America
| | - Yan Ning
- Division of Medical Oncology, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States of America
| | - Hideo Baba
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Fotios Loupakis
- Unit of Medical Oncology 1, Department of Clinical and Experimental Oncology, Istituto Oncologico Veneto, IRCCS, Padua, Italy
| | - Sara Lonardi
- Unit of Medical Oncology 1, Department of Clinical and Experimental Oncology, Istituto Oncologico Veneto, IRCCS, Padua, Italy
| | - Filippo Pietrantonio
- Medical Oncology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Beatrice Borelli
- Polo Oncologico, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, Pisa, Italy
| | - Chiara Cremolini
- Polo Oncologico, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, Pisa, Italy
| | - Toshiharu Yamaguchi
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Cancer Institute Hospital, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Heinz-Josef Lenz
- Division of Medical Oncology, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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23
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Lynch AM, Wagner BD, Palestine AG, Janjic N, Patnaik JL, Mathias MT, Siringo FS, Mandava N. Plasma Biomarkers of Reticular Pseudodrusen and the Risk of Progression to Advanced Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2020; 9:12. [PMID: 32974084 PMCID: PMC7488626 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.9.10.12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Accepted: 08/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To determine, using an aptamer-based technology in patients with intermediate age-related macular degeneration (AMD), (1) if there is a difference in plasma levels of 4979 proteins in patients with and without reticular pseudodrusen (RPD), and (2) if plasma levels of proteins are related to time to conversion to advanced AMD. Methods Patients with intermediate AMD and RPD were identified from an AMD registry. Relative concentrations of each protein were log (base 2) transformed and compared between patients with and without RPD using linear regression. A Cox proportional hazards survival model was fit to each aptamer to quantify associations with time to conversion. A pathway analysis was conducted in converters versus non-converters using the Reactome database. Results Of the 109 intermediate AMD patients, 39 had bilateral RPD (36%). Two proteins, TCL1A and CNDP1, were lower in patients in the intermediate AMD group with RPD. Twenty-one patients converted to advanced AMD with a median time to conversion of 25.2 months (range, 2.3-48.5 months) and median follow-up time in non-converters of 26.4 months (range, 0.03-49.7 months). Several proteins (lysozyme C, TFF3, RNAS6, and SAP3) distinguished patients who converted from those who did not convert to advanced AMD. The top conversion pathways included tumor necrosis factors bind their physiological receptors, digestion and absorption, signaling by activin, and signaling by TGF-β family members. Conclusions We identified a protein signature related to RPD, as well as to conversion to advanced AMD. The pathway analysis suggests that dysfunction of critical systemic pathways may have links to conversion to advanced AMD. Translational Relevance Biomarkers identified in plasma likely reflect systemic alterations in protein expression in patients with intermediate AMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne M Lynch
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Brandie D Wagner
- Department of Biostatistics and Informatics, University of Colorado School of Public Health, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Alan G Palestine
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | | | - Jennifer L Patnaik
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Marc T Mathias
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Frank S Siringo
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Naresh Mandava
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
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24
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Soler Palacios B, Nieto C, Fajardo P, González de la Aleja A, Andrés N, Dominguez-Soto Á, Lucas P, Cuenda A, Rodríguez-Frade JM, Martínez-A C, Villares R, Corbí ÁL, Mellado M. Growth Hormone Reprograms Macrophages toward an Anti-Inflammatory and Reparative Profile in an MAFB-Dependent Manner. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2020; 205:776-788. [PMID: 32591394 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1901330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2019] [Accepted: 05/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Growth hormone (GH), a pleiotropic hormone secreted by the pituitary gland, regulates immune and inflammatory responses. In this study, we show that GH regulates the phenotypic and functional plasticity of macrophages both in vitro and in vivo. Specifically, GH treatment of GM-CSF-primed monocyte-derived macrophages promotes a significant enrichment of anti-inflammatory genes and dampens the proinflammatory cytokine profile through PI3K-mediated downregulation of activin A and upregulation of MAFB, a critical transcription factor for anti-inflammatory polarization of human macrophages. These in vitro data correlate with improved remission of inflammation and mucosal repair during recovery in the acute dextran sodium sulfate-induced colitis model in GH-overexpressing mice. In this model, in addition to the GH-mediated effects on other immune cells, we observed that macrophages from inflamed gut acquire an anti-inflammatory/reparative profile. Overall, these data indicate that GH reprograms inflammatory macrophages to an anti-inflammatory phenotype and improves resolution during pathologic inflammatory responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blanca Soler Palacios
- Departamento de Inmunología y Oncología, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología/Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, 28049 Madrid, Spain; and
| | - Concha Nieto
- Departamento de Biología Molecular y Celular, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas/Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Pilar Fajardo
- Departamento de Inmunología y Oncología, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología/Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, 28049 Madrid, Spain; and
| | - Arturo González de la Aleja
- Departamento de Biología Molecular y Celular, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas/Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Nuria Andrés
- Departamento de Inmunología y Oncología, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología/Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, 28049 Madrid, Spain; and
| | - Ángeles Dominguez-Soto
- Departamento de Biología Molecular y Celular, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas/Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Pilar Lucas
- Departamento de Inmunología y Oncología, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología/Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, 28049 Madrid, Spain; and
| | - Ana Cuenda
- Departamento de Inmunología y Oncología, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología/Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, 28049 Madrid, Spain; and
| | - José Miguel Rodríguez-Frade
- Departamento de Inmunología y Oncología, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología/Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, 28049 Madrid, Spain; and
| | - Carlos Martínez-A
- Departamento de Inmunología y Oncología, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología/Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, 28049 Madrid, Spain; and
| | - Ricardo Villares
- Departamento de Inmunología y Oncología, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología/Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, 28049 Madrid, Spain; and
| | - Ángel L Corbí
- Departamento de Biología Molecular y Celular, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas/Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Mario Mellado
- Departamento de Inmunología y Oncología, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología/Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, 28049 Madrid, Spain; and
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25
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Toms D, Al-Ani A, Sunba S, Tong QYV, Workentine M, Ungrin M. Automated Hypothesis Generation to Identify Signals Relevant in the Development of Mammalian Cell and Tissue Bioprocesses, With Validation in a Retinal Culture System. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2020; 8:534. [PMID: 32582664 PMCID: PMC7287043 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2020.00534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2019] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
We have developed an accessible software tool (receptoR) to predict potentially active signaling pathways in one or more cell type(s) of interest from publicly available transcriptome data. As proof-of-concept, we applied it to mouse photoreceptors, yielding the previously untested hypothesis that activin signaling pathways are active in these cells. Expression of the type 2 activin receptor (Acvr2a) was experimentally confirmed by both RT-qPCR and immunochemistry, and activation of this signaling pathway with recombinant activin A significantly enhanced the survival of magnetically sorted photoreceptors in culture. Taken together, we demonstrate that our approach can be easily used to mine publicly available transcriptome data and generate hypotheses around receptor expression that can be used to identify novel signaling pathways in specific cell types of interest. We anticipate that receptoR (available at https://www.ucalgary.ca/ungrinlab/receptoR) will enable more efficient use of limited research resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Derek Toms
- Department of Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.,Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Abdullah Al-Ani
- Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.,Biomedical Engineering Graduate Program, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.,Alberta Diabetes Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada.,Leaders in Medicine Program, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Saud Sunba
- Department of Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Qing Yun Victor Tong
- Department of Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Matthew Workentine
- Department of Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Mark Ungrin
- Department of Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.,Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.,Biomedical Engineering Graduate Program, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.,Alberta Diabetes Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
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26
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Zhou YL, Li B, Xu YP, Wang LZ, Gu WB, Liu ZP, Dong WR, Shu MA. The Activin-like ligand Dawdle regulates innate immune responses through modulating NF-κB signaling in mud crab Scylla paramamosain. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2019; 101:103450. [PMID: 31306697 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2019.103450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2019] [Revised: 07/09/2019] [Accepted: 07/11/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Activins, members of transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) superfamily, are pleiotropic cytokines with critical roles in mediating cell proliferation, differentiation, homeostasis, apoptosis and immune response. However, the structural characteristics and specific functions of Activins remain largely unknown in invertebrates. In the present study, an Activin-like ligand Dawdle (Daw) was firstly identified and characterized from mud crab Scylla paramamosain. The obtained cDNA sequence of SpDaw was 2, 196 bp long with a 1, 149 bp open reading fame, which encoded a putative protein of 382 amino acids. The putative SpDaw protein contained a signal peptide, a TGF-β propeptide region and a TGF-β domain. Real-time PCR analysis demonstrated that SpDaw was predominantly expressed at early embryonic development stage and premolt stages, implying its participation in development and growth. Furthermore, SpDaw responded to both Vibro alginolyticus and Poly (I:C) challenges, suggesting the involvement of SpDaw in innate immune responses. Knockdown of SpDaw in vivo dramatically increased the expressions of NF-κB signaling genes and anti-lipopolysaccharide factor (ALF) genes, and the bacteria clearance efficiency was also markedly enhanced in SpDaw-silenced crabs. Moreover, the in vitro experiment further demonstrated that recombinant SpDaw protein could block the increased transcription of IKKs, NF-κBs and ALFs induced by pathogen challenges. Taken together, these results indicated that SpDaw not only participated in development and growth processes but also played an immune-regulatory role in crabs' innate immunity, which may pave the way for a better understanding of TGF-β superfamily members in crustacean species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Lian Zhou
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Bo Li
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Ya-Ping Xu
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Lan-Zhi Wang
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Wen-Bin Gu
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Ze-Peng Liu
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Wei-Ren Dong
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
| | - Miao-An Shu
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
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27
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Targeting INHBA in Ovarian Cancer Cells Suppresses Cancer Xenograft Growth by Attenuating Stromal Fibroblast Activation. DISEASE MARKERS 2019; 2019:7275289. [PMID: 31827640 PMCID: PMC6885285 DOI: 10.1155/2019/7275289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2019] [Revised: 09/10/2019] [Accepted: 09/23/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
INHBA-encoded inhibin β A is a member of the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) superfamily. INHBA has been reported to be implicated in the progression of multiple types of cancer including ovarian cancer (OC). However, the mechanisms by which INHBA affects OC progression are not well-characterized. The aim of our study was to explore the prognostic value of INHBA for different stages and grades of OC and to identify the possible mechanisms by which INHBA promotes OC progression. Our results demonstrated that INHBA was specifically expressed in OC epithelium, and higher expression was associated with higher risk of mortality in patients with advanced and higher-grade serous OC (SOC). In addition, knockdown of INHBA in cancer cells impaired cancer xenograft growth through reducing OC stromal fibroblast activation in vivo. Further results confirmed that Smad2 signaling pathway was involved in INHBA-induced stromal fibroblast activation, and inhibiting this pathway could effectively reverse activation of stromal fibroblasts. In summary, our results showed that blocking INHBA in cancer cells may be a potential therapeutic strategy to inhibit SOC progression.
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28
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Baroncelli M, Drabek K, Eijken M, van der Eerden BCJ, van de Peppel J, van Leeuwen JPTM. Two-day-treatment of Activin-A leads to transient change in SV-HFO osteoblast gene expression and reduction in matrix mineralization. J Cell Physiol 2019; 235:4865-4877. [PMID: 31667867 PMCID: PMC7028110 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.29365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2019] [Accepted: 10/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Activins regulate bone formation by controlling osteoclasts and osteoblasts. We investigated Activin‐A mechanism of action on human osteoblast mineralization, RNA and microRNA (miRNA) expression profile. A single 2‐day treatment of Activin‐A at Day 5 of osteoblast differentiation significantly reduced matrix mineralization. Activin A‐treated osteoblasts responded with transient change in gene expression, in a 2‐wave‐fashion. The 38 genes differentially regulated during the first wave (within 8 hr after Activin A start) were involved in transcription regulation. In the second wave (1–2 days after Activin A start), 65 genes were differentially regulated and related to extracellular matrix. Differentially expressed genes in both waves were associated to transforming growth factor beta signaling. We identified which microRNAs modulating osteoblast differentiation were regulated by Activin‐A. In summary, 2‐day treatment with Activin‐A in premineralization period of osteoblast cultures influenced miRNAs, gene transcription, and reduced matrix mineralization. Modulation of Activin A signaling might be useful to control bone quality for therapeutic purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Baroncelli
- Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ksenija Drabek
- Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marco Eijken
- Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Bram C J van der Eerden
- Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jeroen van de Peppel
- Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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29
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Hajihassan Z, Khairkhah N, Zandsalimi F. Enhanced periplasmic expression of human activin A in Escherichia coli using a modified signal peptide. Prep Biochem Biotechnol 2019; 50:141-147. [PMID: 31647371 DOI: 10.1080/10826068.2019.1679177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Activin A is a member of the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) protein superfamily, which acts as a hormone in regulating cell proliferation and differentiation. Structurally, activin is a dimer of two subunits linked by a disulfide bond. Since the correct folding of this protein is essential for its function, we aimed to use a modified signal peptide to target the expressed recombinant protein to the periplasm of Escherichia coli as an effective strategy to produce correctly-folded activin A. Therefore, the coding sequence of native Iranian Bacillus licheniformis α-amylase signal peptide was modified and its efficiency was checked by SignalP bioinformatics tool. Then its final sequence was cloned upstream of the activin A mature cDNA. Protein expression was done using 1 mM of isopropyl thio-β-D-galactoside (IPTG) and a post-induction time of 8 hr. Additionally, following purification of recombinant activin A, circular dichroism spectroscopy was used to determine the accuracy of secondary structure of the protein. Importantly, differentiation of K562 cells to the red blood cell was confirmed by measuring the amount of Fe+2 ions after treatment with recombinant activin A. The results indicated that the produced recombinant activin A had the same secondary structure as the commercial human activin A and was fully functional.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Hajihassan
- Department of Life Science Engineering, Faculty of New Sciences and Technologies, University of Tehran, Tehran, The Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Niloofar Khairkhah
- Department of Life Science Engineering, Faculty of New Sciences and Technologies, University of Tehran, Tehran, The Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Farshid Zandsalimi
- Department of Life Science Engineering, Faculty of New Sciences and Technologies, University of Tehran, Tehran, The Islamic Republic of Iran
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30
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Paajanen J, Ilonen I, Lauri H, Järvinen T, Sutinen E, Ollila H, Rouvinen E, Lemström K, Räsänen J, Ritvos O, Koli K, Myllärniemi M. Elevated Circulating Activin A Levels in Patients With Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma Are Related to Cancer Cachexia and Reduced Response to Platinum-based Chemotherapy. Clin Lung Cancer 2019; 21:e142-e150. [PMID: 31734071 DOI: 10.1016/j.cllc.2019.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2019] [Revised: 07/14/2019] [Accepted: 10/18/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous preclinical studies have shown that activin A is overexpressed in malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM), associates with cancer cachexia, and is observed in in vitro resistance to platinum-based chemotherapy. We evaluated circulating activin levels and their endogenous antagonists' follistatin/follistatin-like 3 in intrathoracic tumors. MATERIALS AND METHODS Patients suspected of thoracic malignancy were recruited prior to surgery. Serum samples were collected from 21 patients with MPM, 59 patients with non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC), and 22 patients with benign lung lesions. Circulating activin/follistatin levels were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and compared with clinicopathologic parameters. RESULTS Circulating activin A levels were elevated in patients with MPM when compared with patients with NSCLC or benign lung lesion samples (P < .0001). Also, follistatin and follistatin-like 3 levels were the highest in MPM, although with less difference compared with activin A. Receiver operating characteristic analysis for activin A for separating NSCLC from benign lung lesion showed an area under the curve of 0.856 (95% confidence interval, 0.77-0.94). Activin A levels were higher in patients with cachexia (P < .001). In patients with MPM, activin A levels correlated positively with computed tomography-based baseline tumor size (R = 0.549; P = .010) and the change in tumor size after chemotherapy (R = 0.743; P = .0006). Patients with partial response or stable disease had lower circulating activin A levels than the ones with progressive disease (P = .028). CONCLUSION Activin A serum level could be used as a biomarker in differentiating malignant and benign lung tumors. Circulating activin A levels were elevated in MPM and associates with cancer cachexia and reduced chemotherapy response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juuso Paajanen
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland; Individualized Drug Therapy, Research Programs Unit, Medical Faculty, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
| | - Ilkka Ilonen
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland; Individualized Drug Therapy, Research Programs Unit, Medical Faculty, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Helena Lauri
- Medical Imaging Center, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Tommi Järvinen
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Eva Sutinen
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland; Individualized Drug Therapy, Research Programs Unit, Medical Faculty, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Hely Ollila
- Individualized Drug Therapy, Research Programs Unit, Medical Faculty, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Eeva Rouvinen
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland; Transplantation Immunology Program, Research Programs Unit, Medical Faculty, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Karl Lemström
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland; Transplantation Immunology Program, Research Programs Unit, Medical Faculty, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Jari Räsänen
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Olli Ritvos
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Katri Koli
- Individualized Drug Therapy, Research Programs Unit, Medical Faculty, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Marjukka Myllärniemi
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland; Individualized Drug Therapy, Research Programs Unit, Medical Faculty, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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31
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Wu ZH, Tang Y, Niu X, Cheng Q. Expression and gene regulation network of INHBA in Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma based on data mining. Sci Rep 2019; 9:14341. [PMID: 31586103 PMCID: PMC6778107 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-50865-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2019] [Accepted: 09/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Inhibin subunit beta A(INHBA) encodes an individual from the TGF-β superfamily of proteins and the ligand could be further homo-dimerized to shape activin A or hetero-dimerized to frame inhibin with inhibin beta B. We studied INHBA expression, mutations, regulation, function networks and immune infiltrates in data from patients with Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) based on different open databases by utilizing multi-dimensional investigation techniques. This study gives staggered evidence for the significance of INHBA in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma and its potential role as a novel biomarker. Our outcomes propose that INHBA overexpression in HNSCC has profound impacts in the center hub of post-transcriptional regulation, which is firmly identified with protein translation. Meanwhile, we also examine the function of the identified miRNAs that were related to INHBA and molecular function of these miRNAs were mainly enhanced in transcription factor activity, transcription regulator activity. In addition, B cells of immune infiltrates affecting the prognosis and might have a prognostic significance related to INHBA in HNSCC. Our outcomes show that data mining efficiently uncovers information about INHBA expression in HNSCC and more importance establishing a foundation for further investigation of the role of INHBA in carcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeng-Hong Wu
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Yun Tang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Xun Niu
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Qing Cheng
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
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32
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Jung MK. [Nutritional Support for Patients with Pancreatic Cancer]. THE KOREAN JOURNAL OF GASTROENTEROLOGY 2019; 74:87-94. [PMID: 31438660 DOI: 10.4166/kjg.2019.74.2.87] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2019] [Revised: 07/29/2019] [Accepted: 08/01/2019] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is the ninth common malignancy in South Korea. It has a dismal prognosis with a 5-year overall survival rate of less than 10%, and pancreatic cancer is associated with cancer cachexia, which is defined as the loss of muscle mass that is not reversible by conventional nutritional support. Cachexia is noted in over 85% of all pancreatic cancer patients and it is strongly related with the disease's mortality. Nearly 30% of pancreatic cancer deaths are due to cachexia rather than being due to the tumor burden. Therefore, it is crucial to discover the mechanisms behind the development of muscle wasting in pancreatic cancer patients and find novel therapeutics for targeting cachexia. This review deals with the current understanding about the development of cachexia and nutritional support in those patients suffering with pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Kyu Jung
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Korea.,Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kyungpook National University Hospital, Daegu, Korea
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Austad SN. Sex differences in health and aging: a dialog between the brain and gonad? GeroScience 2019; 41:267-273. [PMID: 31243699 PMCID: PMC6702532 DOI: 10.1007/s11357-019-00081-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2019] [Accepted: 06/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Women live longer than men in virtually all circumstances. However, a more common pattern among animals is that one sex lives longer under some conditions, the other lives longer under other conditions. In laboratory mice, interventions that extend longevity are surprisingly often sex-specific in their effects. Understanding these conditional sex differences could provide mechanistic insight into how longevity could be modulated in humans. One way that longevity can be consistently enhanced is by inhibiting reproduction or eliminating the capacity to reproduce. Thus, there appears to be a mechanistic link between gonadal activity and longevity. There also appears to be a mechanistic link between some types of neuroendocrine signaling and longevity. Combining these two observations suggest that communication between the brain and gonad is a ripe avenue for further exploring longevity-assurance mechanisms. Also, because the timing and activity of specific brain-gonad endocrine differs between the sexes, neuroendocrine linkages between the brain and gonad, particularly among the less obvious hormones such as activin and inhibin, could provide additional insight into mechanisms of sex differences in aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven N Austad
- Department of Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA.
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34
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Liu X, Chen Z, Lan T, Liang P, Tao Q. Upregulation of interleukin-8 and activin A induces osteoclastogenesis in ameloblastoma. Int J Mol Med 2019; 43:2329-2340. [PMID: 31017256 PMCID: PMC6488175 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2019.4171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2018] [Accepted: 04/10/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Ameloblastoma is a common odontogenic benign tumor located in the jaws and is characterized by severe local bone destruction. The current study aimed to investigate the effect of interactions between tumor cells and bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) on osteoclast formation in ameloblastoma. The impact of ameloblastoma/BMSC interactions on cytokine production, gene expression and osteoclastogenesis was examined using an immortalized ameloblastoma cell line that the authors' previously established. The results demonstrated that interactions between ameloblastoma cells and BMSCs increased interleukin (IL)‑8 and activin A secretion by BMSCs. IL‑8 expression in BMSCs was modulated by tumor‑derived tumor necrosis factor‑α and IL‑8 contributed to osteoclast formation not only directly but also by stimulating receptor activator of NF‑κB ligand (RANKL) expression in BMSCs. Activin A secretion in BMSCs was stimulated by ameloblastoma cells via cell‑to‑cell‑mediated activation of c‑Jun N‑terminal kinase activation, acting as a cofactor of RANKL to induce osteoclast formation and function. The present study highlights the critical role of communication between BMSCs and ameloblastoma cells in bone resorption in ameloblastoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Liu
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat‑sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510055, P.R. China
| | - Zhifeng Chen
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, P.R. China
| | - Tianjun Lan
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat‑sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510055, P.R. China
| | - Peisheng Liang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat‑sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510055, P.R. China
| | - Qian Tao
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat‑sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510055, P.R. China
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Lemaitre RP, Bogdanova A, Borgonovo B, Woodruff JB, Drechsel DN. FlexiBAC: a versatile, open-source baculovirus vector system for protein expression, secretion, and proteolytic processing. BMC Biotechnol 2019; 19:20. [PMID: 30925874 PMCID: PMC6441187 DOI: 10.1186/s12896-019-0512-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2018] [Accepted: 03/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Baculovirus-mediated expression in insect cells is a powerful approach for protein production. However, many existing methods are time-consuming, offer limited options for protein tagging, and are unsuitable for secreted proteins requiring proteolytic maturation, such as TGF-β family growth factors. Results To overcome the limitations of traditional baculovirus expression systems, we engineered “FlexiBAC”. This system allows recombinant baculovirus formation inside insect cells and reduces the time between initial cloning and protein production to 13 days. FlexiBAC includes 143 shuttle vectors that append combinations of purification tags, fluorescent markers, proteolytic cleavage sites, trafficking signals, and chemical conjugation tags to the termini of the target protein. This system also overexpresses recombinant furin convertase to allow efficient proteolytic processing of secreted proteins. We demonstrate that FlexiBAC can be used to produce high levels of mature, active forms of TGF-β family growth factors, such as Activin A, as well as other proteins that are typically difficult to reconstitute, such as proteins rich in coiled-coil, low complexity, and disordered domains. Conclusions FlexiBAC is a protein expression system for production of both cytosolic proteins and secreted proteins that require proteolytic maturation. The design of FlexiBAC and its expansive complementary shuttle vector system reduces cloning steps and simplifies baculovirus production. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12896-019-0512-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Régis P Lemaitre
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, Pfotenhauerstrasse 108, 01307, Dresden, Germany
| | - Aliona Bogdanova
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, Pfotenhauerstrasse 108, 01307, Dresden, Germany
| | - Barbara Borgonovo
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, Pfotenhauerstrasse 108, 01307, Dresden, Germany
| | - Jeffrey B Woodruff
- Department of Cell Biology, Dept. of Biophysics, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA.
| | - David N Drechsel
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, Pfotenhauerstrasse 108, 01307, Dresden, Germany. .,Research Institute of Molecular Pathology (IMP), Campus-Vienna-Biocenter 1, 1030, Vienna, Austria.
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36
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Santoni G, Amantini C. The Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid Type-2(TRPV2) Ion Channels in Neurogenesis andGliomagenesis: Cross-Talk between TranscriptionFactors and Signaling Molecules. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11030322. [PMID: 30845786 PMCID: PMC6468602 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11030322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2019] [Revised: 02/27/2019] [Accepted: 03/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently, the finding of cancer stem cells in brain tumors has increased the possibilities for advancing new therapeutic approaches with the aim to overcome the limits of current available treatments. In addition, a role for ion channels, particularly of TRP channels, in developing neurons as well as in brain cancer development and progression have been demonstrated. Herein, we focus on the latest advancements in understanding the role of TRPV2, a Ca2+ permeable channel belonging to the TRPV subfamily in neurogenesis and gliomagenesis. TRPV2 has been found to be expressed in both neural progenitor cells and glioblastoma stem/progenitor-like cells (GSCs). In developing neurons, post-translational modifications of TRPV2 (e.g., phosphorylation by ERK2) are required to stimulate Ca2+ signaling and nerve growth factor-mediated neurite outgrowth. TRPV2 overexpression also promotes GSC differentiation and reduces gliomagenesis in vitro and in vivo. In glioblastoma, TRPV2 inhibits survival and proliferation, and induces Fas/CD95-dependent apoptosis. Furthermore, by proteomic analysis, the identification of a TRPV2 interactome-based signature and its relation to glioblastoma progression/recurrence, high or low overall survival and drug resistance strongly suggest an important role of the TRPV2 channel as a potential biomarker in glioblastoma prognosis and therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgio Santoni
- School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, 62032 Camerino, Italy.
| | - Consuelo Amantini
- School of Biosciences and Veterinary Medicine, University of Camerino, 62032 Camerino, Italy.
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38
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Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is the third leading cause of cancer death in the United States, with projections that it will become the second leading cause by the year 2030. It carries a dismal prognosis with a 5-year overall survival rate of less than 9% and is associated with numerous comorbidities, the most notable being cachexia. Defined as the loss of muscle mass not reversible by conventional nutritional support, cachexia is seen in over 85% of pancreatic cancer patients and contributes significantly to mortality, where nearly 30% of pancreatic cancer deaths are due to cachexia rather than tumor burden. Therefore, there is an urgent need to identify the mechanisms behind the development of muscle wasting in pancreatic cancer patients and design novel therapeutics targeting cachexia. This review highlights the current understanding surrounding the mechanisms underpinning the development of cachexia in pancreatic cancer, as well as the current mouse models of pancreatic cancer-induced muscle wasting described in the literature.
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Kajita T, Ariyoshi W, Okinaga T, Mitsugi S, Tominaga K, Nishihara T. Mechanisms involved in enhancement of osteoclast formation by activin-A. J Cell Biochem 2018; 119:6974-6985. [PMID: 29737562 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.26906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2018] [Accepted: 03/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Several growth factors in bone tissues are reported to be associated with osteoclastogenesis. Activin-A, a member of the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) family is known to be present in bone tissues and an important regulator in osteoclastogenesis with SMAD-mediated signaling being crucial for inducing osteoclast differentiation. In the present study, we examined the effect and underlying mechanisms of activin-A on osteoclast formation in vitro culture systems. Activin-A enhanced osteoclast formation in both mouse bone marrow cells and monocyte/macrophage cell line RAW 264.7 cells induced by receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) ligand (RANKL) and/or macrophage stimulating factor (M-CSF). We also found that activin-A stimulated bone resorption and actin ring formation induced by RANKL and/or M-CSF. Furthermore, activin-A enhanced RANKL-induced expression of nuclear factor of activated T cell cytoplasmic 1 (NFATc1), a key regulator of osteoclastogenesis, thereby increasing osteoclastogenesis-related marker gene expression, including tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase, osteoclast stimulatory transmembrane protein, and cathepsin K. Blockage of receptor binding by follistatin, an activing-binding protein suppressed the activin-A-mediated stimulation of NFATc1. In addition, activin-A increased RANKL-induced c-fos expression without significantly affecting the NF-κB and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway. Pre-treatment of the cells with a specific inhibitor of SMAD2/3 attenuated the activin-A-induced expression of NFATc1 and co-immunoprecipitation assay revealed that treatment with activin-A increased physical interaction of phosphorylated-c-fos and phosphorylated-SMAD2 protein induced by RANKL. These results suggest that activin-A enhances RANKL-induced osteoclast formation mediated by interaction of c-fos and smad2/3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomonari Kajita
- Division of Infections and Molecular Biology, Department of Health Promotion, Kyushu Dental University, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka, Japan.,Division of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Department of Science and Physical Functions, Kyushu Dental University, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Wataru Ariyoshi
- Division of Infections and Molecular Biology, Department of Health Promotion, Kyushu Dental University, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Toshinori Okinaga
- Division of Infections and Molecular Biology, Department of Health Promotion, Kyushu Dental University, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Sho Mitsugi
- Division of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Department of Science and Physical Functions, Kyushu Dental University, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Tominaga
- Division of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Department of Science and Physical Functions, Kyushu Dental University, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Tatsuji Nishihara
- Division of Infections and Molecular Biology, Department of Health Promotion, Kyushu Dental University, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka, Japan
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Karatug Kacar A, Gezginci-Oktayoglu S, Bolkent S. 4-Methylcatechol stimulates apoptosis and reduces insulin secretion by decreasing betacellulin and inhibin beta-A in INS-1 beta-cells. Hum Exp Toxicol 2018; 37:1123-1130. [PMID: 29473434 DOI: 10.1177/0960327118758365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Insulinoma INS-1 cell line is a pancreatic beta cell tumor which is characterized with high insulin content and secretion in response to increasing glucose levels. 4-Methylcatechol (4-MC) is a metabolite of quercetin, which is known as a potential drug for inhibition of tumorigenesis. The aim of this study was to determine the applying doses of 4-methylcatechol (4-MC) for triggening cell death and decreasing the cell function of rat insulinoma INS-1 beta cells. The rate of apoptosis and the amount of insulin in the cell and the secretions were determined by the ELISA method. Betacellulin (BTC) and inhibin beta-A amounts in both the cell and the glucose induced secretion were investigated by Western blotting. Furthermore, BTC, Inhibin beta-A, Ins1, Ins2, and GLUT2 gene expression levels were determined by the by the real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) method. We noted a significant decrease in cell viability, while an increase in apoptotic cell death by 4-MC treatment. It caused a decrease in the secretion of BTC, expressions of both BTC and inhibin beta-A. We showed a decrease in the expressions of Ins1 and GLUT2, while there is no alteration in the level of insulin protein. Insulin secretion levels increased in INS-1 cells given 4-MC by basal glucose concentration while they did not response to high concentration of glucose, which indicates that 4-MC disrupts the functionality of INS-1 cells. These results revealed that 4-MC induces apoptosis and decreases insulin secretion by reducing BTC and inhibin beta-A in insulinoma INS-1 cells. Thus, 4-MC may be offered as a potential molecule for treatment of insulinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Karatug Kacar
- Istanbul University, Faculty of Science, Department of Biology, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - S Gezginci-Oktayoglu
- Istanbul University, Faculty of Science, Department of Biology, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - S Bolkent
- Istanbul University, Faculty of Science, Department of Biology, Istanbul, Turkey
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41
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Haridoss S, Yovchev MI, Schweizer H, Megherhi S, Beecher M, Locker J, Oertel M. Activin A is a prominent autocrine regulator of hepatocyte growth arrest. Hepatol Commun 2017; 1:852-870. [PMID: 29404498 PMCID: PMC5721463 DOI: 10.1002/hep4.1106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2017] [Revised: 08/28/2017] [Accepted: 08/31/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Activin A, a multifunctional cytokine, plays an important role in hepatocyte growth suppression and is involved in liver size control. The present study was aimed to determine the cell location of activin A in the normal rat liver microenvironment and the contribution of activin A signaling to the hepatocyte phenotype to obtain insight into molecular mechanisms. Immunohistochemical and in situ hybridization analyses identified hepatocytes as the major activin A‐positive cell population in normal liver and identified mast cells as an additional activin A source. To investigate paracrine and autocrine activin A‐stimulated effects, hepatocytes were cocultured with engineered activin A‐secreting cell lines (RF1, TL8) or transduced with an adeno‐associated virus vector encoding activin βA, which led to strikingly altered expression of cell cycle‐related genes (Ki‐67, E2F transcription factor 1 [E2F1], minichromosome maintenance complex component 2 [Mcm2], forkhead box M1 [FoxM1]) and senescence‐related genes (cyclin‐dependent kinase inhibitor 2B [p15INK4b/CDKN2B], differentiated embryo‐chondrocyte expressed gene 1 [DEC1]) and reduced proliferation and induction of senescence. Microarray analyses identified 453 differentially expressed genes, many of which were not yet recognized as activin A downstream targets (e.g., ADAM metallopeptidase domain 12 [Adam12], semaphorin 7A [Sema7a], LIM and cysteine‐rich domains‐1 [Lmcd1], DAB2, clathrin adaptor protein [Dab2]). Among the main activin A‐mediated molecular/cellular functions are cellular growth/proliferation and movement, molecular transport, and metabolic processes containing highly down‐regulated genes, such as cytochrome P450, subfamily 2, polypeptide 11 (Cyp2C11), sulfotransferase family 1A, member 1 (Sult1a1), glycine‐N‐acyltransferase (Glyat), and bile acid‐CoA:amino acid N‐acyltransferase (Baat). Moreover, Ingenuity Pathway Analyses identified particular gene networks regulated by hepatocyte nuclear factor (HNF)‐4α and peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) as key targets of activin A signaling. Conclusion: Our in vitro models demonstrated that activin A‐stimulated growth inhibition and cellular senescence is mediated through p15INK4b/CDKN2B and is associated with up‐ and down‐regulation of numerous target genes involved in multiple biological processes performed by hepatocytes, suggesting that activin A fulfills a critical role in normal liver function. (Hepatology Communications 2017;1:852‐870)
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Maria Beecher
- Department of Pathology University of Pittsburgh Pittsburgh PA
| | - Joseph Locker
- Department of Pathology University of Pittsburgh Pittsburgh PA.,Pittsburgh Liver Research Center University of Pittsburgh Pittsburgh PA
| | - Michael Oertel
- Department of Pathology University of Pittsburgh Pittsburgh PA.,Pittsburgh Liver Research Center University of Pittsburgh Pittsburgh PA.,McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine University of Pittsburgh Pittsburgh PA
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42
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Biggar P, Kim GH. Treatment of renal anemia: Erythropoiesis stimulating agents and beyond. Kidney Res Clin Pract 2017; 36:209-223. [PMID: 28904872 PMCID: PMC5592888 DOI: 10.23876/j.krcp.2017.36.3.209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2017] [Revised: 07/02/2017] [Accepted: 07/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Anemia, complicating the course of chronic kidney disease, is a significant parameter, whether interpreted as subjective impairment or an objective prognostic marker. Renal anemia is predominantly due to relative erythropoietin (EPO) deficiency. EPO inhibits apoptosis of erythrocyte precursors. Studies using EPO substitution have shown that increasing hemoglobin (Hb) levels up to 10–11 g/dL is associated with clinical improvement. However, it has not been unequivocally proven that further intensification of erythropoiesis stimulating agent (ESA) therapy actually leads to a comprehensive benefit for the patient, especially as ESAs are potentially associated with increased cerebro-cardiovascular events. Recently, new developments offer interesting options not only via stimulating erythropoeisis but also by employing additional mechanisms. The inhibition of activin, a member of the transforming growth factor superfamily, has the potential to correct anemia by stimulating liberation of mature erythrocyte forms and also to mitigate disturbed mineral and bone metabolism as well. Hypoxia-inducible factor prolyl hydroxylase inhibitors also show pleiotropic effects, which are at the focus of present research and have the potential of reducing mortality. However, conventional ESAs offer an extensive body of safety evidence, against which the newer substances should be measured. Carbamylated EPO is devoid of Hb augmenting effects whilst exerting promising tissue protective properties. Additionally, the role of hepcidin antagonists is discussed. An innovative new hemodialysis blood tube system, reducing blood contact with air, conveys a totally different and innocuous option to improve renal anemia by reducing mechanical hemolysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Biggar
- Department of Nephrology, Klinikum Coburg, GmbH, Coburg, Germany.,KfH Kidney Centre, Coburg, Germany
| | - Gheun-Ho Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hanyang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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43
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Antsiferova M, Piwko-Czuchra A, Cangkrama M, Wietecha M, Sahin D, Birkner K, Amann VC, Levesque M, Hohl D, Dummer R, Werner S. Activin promotes skin carcinogenesis by attraction and reprogramming of macrophages. EMBO Mol Med 2017; 9:27-45. [PMID: 27932444 PMCID: PMC5210090 DOI: 10.15252/emmm.201606493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Activin has emerged as an important player in different types of cancer, but the underlying mechanisms are largely unknown. We show here that activin overexpression is an early event in murine and human skin tumorigenesis. This is functionally important, since activin promoted skin tumorigenesis in mice induced by the human papillomavirus 8 oncogenes. This was accompanied by depletion of epidermal γδ T cells and accumulation of regulatory T cells. Most importantly, activin increased the number of skin macrophages via attraction of blood monocytes, which was prevented by depletion of CCR2‐positive monocytes. Gene expression profiling of macrophages from pre‐tumorigenic skin and bioinformatics analysis demonstrated that activin induces a gene expression pattern in skin macrophages that resembles the phenotype of tumor‐associated macrophages in different malignancies, thereby promoting angiogenesis, cell migration and proteolysis. The functional relevance of this finding was demonstrated by antibody‐mediated depletion of macrophages, which strongly suppressed activin‐induced skin tumor formation. These results demonstrate that activin induces skin carcinogenesis via attraction and reprogramming of macrophages and identify novel activin targets involved in tumor formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Antsiferova
- Department of Biology, Institute of Molecular Health Sciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | - Michael Cangkrama
- Department of Biology, Institute of Molecular Health Sciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Mateusz Wietecha
- Department of Biology, Institute of Molecular Health Sciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Dilara Sahin
- Department of Biology, Institute of Molecular Health Sciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Katharina Birkner
- Department of Biology, Institute of Molecular Health Sciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Valerie C Amann
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | - Daniel Hohl
- Department of Dermatology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Reinhard Dummer
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Sabine Werner
- Department of Biology, Institute of Molecular Health Sciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Sallustio F, Curci C, Aloisi A, Toma CC, Marulli E, Serino G, Cox SN, De Palma G, Stasi A, Divella C, Rinaldi R, Schena FP. Inhibin-A and Decorin Secreted by Human Adult Renal Stem/Progenitor Cells Through the TLR2 Engagement Induce Renal Tubular Cell Regeneration. Sci Rep 2017; 7:8225. [PMID: 28811645 PMCID: PMC5557965 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-08474-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2017] [Accepted: 05/26/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a public health problem worldwide. Several therapeutic strategies have been made to accelerate recovery and improve renal survival. Recent studies have shown that human adult renal progenitor cells (ARPCs) participate in kidney repair processes, and may be used as a possible treatment to promote regeneration in acute kidney injury. Here, we show that human tubular ARPCs (tARPCs) protect physically injured or chemically damaged renal proximal tubular epithelial cells (RPTECs) by preventing cisplatin-induced apoptosis and enhancing proliferation of survived cells. tARPCs without toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) expression or TLR2 blocking completely abrogated this regenerative effect. Only tARPCs, and not glomerular ARPCs, were able to induce tubular cell regeneration process and it occurred only after damage detection. Moreover, we have found that ARPCs secreted inhibin-A and decorin following the RPTEC damage and that these secreted factors were directly involved in cell regeneration process. Polysaccharide synthetic vesicles containing these molecules were constructed and co-cultured with cisplatin damaged RPTECs. These synthetic vesicles were not only incorporated into the cells, but they were also able to induce a substantial increase in cell number and viability. The findings of this study increase the knowledge of renal repair processes and may be the first step in the development of new specific therapeutic strategies for renal repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Sallustio
- University of Bari, Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, Piazza G. Cesare 11, 70124, Bari, Italy.,C.A.R.S.O. Consortium, Strada Prov. le Valenzano-Casamassima Km 3, 70100, Valenzano (Ba), Italy
| | - Claudia Curci
- University of Bari, Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, Piazza G. Cesare 11, 70124, Bari, Italy.,C.A.R.S.O. Consortium, Strada Prov. le Valenzano-Casamassima Km 3, 70100, Valenzano (Ba), Italy.,Schena Foundation, Strada Prov. le Valenzano-Casamassima Km 3, 70100, Valenzano (Ba), Italy
| | - Alessandra Aloisi
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), Institute of Nanoscience, Via Arnesano 16, 73100, Lecce, Italy.,Institute of Microelectronics and Microsystems (C.N.R.- I.M.M.), via Monteroni, Campus Ecotekne, 73100, Lecce, Italy
| | - Chiara Cristina Toma
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), Institute of Nanoscience, Via Arnesano 16, 73100, Lecce, Italy.,University of Salento, Mathematics and Physics "E. De Giorgi" Department, University of Salento, 73100, Lecce, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Marulli
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), Institute of Nanoscience, Via Arnesano 16, 73100, Lecce, Italy.,University of Salento, Mathematics and Physics "E. De Giorgi" Department, University of Salento, 73100, Lecce, Italy
| | - Grazia Serino
- National Institute of Gastroenterology "S. de Bellis", Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte, Bari, 70013, Italy
| | - Sharon Natasha Cox
- C.A.R.S.O. Consortium, Strada Prov. le Valenzano-Casamassima Km 3, 70100, Valenzano (Ba), Italy.,Schena Foundation, Strada Prov. le Valenzano-Casamassima Km 3, 70100, Valenzano (Ba), Italy
| | - Giuseppe De Palma
- University of Bari, Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, Piazza G. Cesare 11, 70124, Bari, Italy.,C.A.R.S.O. Consortium, Strada Prov. le Valenzano-Casamassima Km 3, 70100, Valenzano (Ba), Italy.,Schena Foundation, Strada Prov. le Valenzano-Casamassima Km 3, 70100, Valenzano (Ba), Italy
| | - Alessandra Stasi
- University of Bari, Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, Piazza G. Cesare 11, 70124, Bari, Italy
| | - Chiara Divella
- University of Bari, Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, Piazza G. Cesare 11, 70124, Bari, Italy
| | - Rosaria Rinaldi
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), Institute of Nanoscience, Via Arnesano 16, 73100, Lecce, Italy.,University of Salento, Mathematics and Physics "E. De Giorgi" Department, University of Salento, 73100, Lecce, Italy
| | - Francesco Paolo Schena
- University of Bari, Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, Piazza G. Cesare 11, 70124, Bari, Italy. .,C.A.R.S.O. Consortium, Strada Prov. le Valenzano-Casamassima Km 3, 70100, Valenzano (Ba), Italy. .,Schena Foundation, Strada Prov. le Valenzano-Casamassima Km 3, 70100, Valenzano (Ba), Italy.
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45
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Puolakkainen T, Rummukainen P, Lehto J, Ritvos O, Hiltunen A, Säämänen AM, Kiviranta R. Soluble activin type IIB receptor improves fracture healing in a closed tibial fracture mouse model. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0180593. [PMID: 28704409 PMCID: PMC5509431 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0180593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2016] [Accepted: 06/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Fractures still present a significant burden to patients due to pain and periods of unproductivity. Numerous growth factors have been identified to regulate bone remodeling. However, to date, only the bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) are used to enhance fracture healing in clinical settings. Activins are pleiotropic growth factors belonging to the TGF-β superfamily. We and others have recently shown that treatment with recombinant fusion proteins of activin receptors greatly increases bone mass in different animal models by trapping activins and other ligands thus inhibiting their signaling pathways. However, their effects on fracture healing are less known. Twelve-week old male C57Bl mice were subjected to a standardized, closed tibial fracture model. Animals were divided into control and treatment groups and were administered either PBS control or a soluble activin type IIB receptor (ActRIIB-Fc) intraperitoneally once a week for a duration of two or four weeks. There were no significant differences between the groups at two weeks but we observed a significant increase in callus mineralization in ActRIIB-Fc-treated animals by microcomputed tomography imaging at four weeks. Bone volume per tissue volume was 60%, trabecular number 55% and bone mineral density 60% higher in the 4-week calluses of the ActRIIB-Fc-treated mice (p<0.05 in all). Biomechanical strength of 4-week calluses was also significantly improved by ActRIIB-Fc treatment as stiffness increased by 64% and maximum force by 45% (p<0.05) compared to the PBS-injected controls. These results demonstrate that ActRIIB-Fc treatment significantly improves healing of closed long bone fractures. Our findings support the previous reports of activin receptors increasing bone mass but also demonstrate a novel approach for using ActRIIB-Fc to enhance fracture healing.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jemina Lehto
- Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Olli Ritvos
- Department of Physiology, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | | | | | - Riku Kiviranta
- Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.,Division of Endocrinology, Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
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Abstract
Testes-specific protease 50 (TSP50), a novelly identified oncogene, has the capacity to induce cell proliferation, cell invasion and tumor growth. Further studies indicated that CAGA-luc (an activin-responsive reporter construct) reporter activity could be significantly suppressed by TSP50 overexpression, implying that the activin signaling may participate in TSP50-mediated cell proliferation. Here, we reported that TSP50 had an inhibitory effect on activin signaling. Mechanistic studies revealed that TSP50 could interact with ActRIIA, inhibit activin typeIreceptor (ActRIB) phosphorylation, repress Smad2/3 nuclear accumulation and finally promote cell proliferation by reducing the expression of activin signal target gene p27. Additionally, we found that ActRIB activation could reverse TSP50-mediated cell proliferation and tumor growth. Furthermore, analysis of human breast cancer specimens by immunohistochemistry indicated that TSP50 expression was negatively related to p-Smad2/3 and p27 protein levels. Most importantly, breast cancer diagnosis-related indicators such as tumor size, tumor grade, estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR) and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER-2) levels, were correlated well with TSP50/p-Samd2/3 and TSP50/p27 expression status. Thus, our studies revealed a novel regulatory mechanism underlying TSP50-induced cell proliferation and provided a new favorable intervention target for the treatment of breast cancer.
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Effect of alpha lipoic acid on in vitro development of bovine secondary preantral follicles. Theriogenology 2017; 88:124-130. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2016.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2016] [Revised: 09/05/2016] [Accepted: 09/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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48
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Freyer N, Knöspel F, Strahl N, Amini L, Schrade P, Bachmann S, Damm G, Seehofer D, Jacobs F, Monshouwer M, Zeilinger K. Hepatic Differentiation of Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells in a Perfused Three-Dimensional Multicompartment Bioreactor. Biores Open Access 2016; 5:235-48. [PMID: 27610270 PMCID: PMC5003005 DOI: 10.1089/biores.2016.0027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The hepatic differentiation of human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC) holds great potential for application in regenerative medicine, pharmacological drug screening, and toxicity testing. However, full maturation of hiPSC into functional hepatocytes has not yet been achieved. In this study, we investigated the potential of a dynamic three-dimensional (3D) hollow fiber membrane bioreactor technology to improve the hepatic differentiation of hiPSC in comparison to static two-dimensional (2D) cultures. A total of 100 × 106 hiPSC were seeded into each 3D bioreactor (n = 3). Differentiation into definitive endoderm (DE) was induced by adding activin A, Wnt3a, and sodium butyrate to the culture medium. For further maturation, hepatocyte growth factor and oncostatin M were added. The same differentiation protocol was applied to hiPSC maintained in 2D cultures. Secretion of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), a marker for DE, was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in 2D cultures, while secretion of albumin, a typical characteristic for mature hepatocytes, was higher after hepatic differentiation of hiPSC in 3D bioreactors. Functional analysis of multiple cytochrome P450 (CYP) isoenzymes showed activity of CYP1A2, CYP2B6, and CYP3A4 in both groups, although at a lower level compared to primary human hepatocytes (PHH). CYP2B6 activities were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in 3D bioreactors compared with 2D cultures, which is in line with results from gene expression. Immunofluorescence staining showed that the majority of cells was positive for albumin, cytokeratin 18 (CK18), and hepatocyte nuclear factor 4-alpha (HNF4A) at the end of the differentiation process. In addition, cytokeratin 19 (CK19) staining revealed the formation of bile duct-like structures in 3D bioreactors similar to native liver tissue. The results indicate a better maturation of hiPSC in the 3D bioreactor system compared to 2D cultures and emphasize the potential of dynamic 3D culture systems in stem cell differentiation approaches for improved formation of differentiated tissue structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nora Freyer
- Bioreactor Group, Berlin Brandenburg Center for Regenerative Therapies (BCRT), Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Fanny Knöspel
- Bioreactor Group, Berlin Brandenburg Center for Regenerative Therapies (BCRT), Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Nadja Strahl
- Bioreactor Group, Berlin Brandenburg Center for Regenerative Therapies (BCRT), Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Leila Amini
- Bioreactor Group, Berlin Brandenburg Center for Regenerative Therapies (BCRT), Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Petra Schrade
- Charité Centrum Grundlagenmedizin, Institut für Vegetative Anatomie, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Sebastian Bachmann
- Charité Centrum Grundlagenmedizin, Institut für Vegetative Anatomie, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Georg Damm
- Department of General-, Visceral- and Transplantation Surgery, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery and Visceral Transplantation, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Daniel Seehofer
- Department of General-, Visceral- and Transplantation Surgery, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery and Visceral Transplantation, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Frank Jacobs
- Janssen Research and Development, Beerse, Belgium
| | | | - Katrin Zeilinger
- Bioreactor Group, Berlin Brandenburg Center for Regenerative Therapies (BCRT), Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Address correspondence to: Dr. med. vet. Katrin Zeilinger, Bioreactor Group, Berlin Brandenburg Center for Regenerative Therapies (BCRT), Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Augustenburger Platz 1, Berlin 13353, Germany, E-mail:
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Liu X, Zhou J, Zhou N, Zhu J, Feng Y, Miao X. SYNJ2BP inhibits tumor growth and metastasis by activating DLL4 pathway in hepatocellular carcinoma. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2016; 35:115. [PMID: 27440153 PMCID: PMC4955141 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-016-0385-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2016] [Accepted: 06/28/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Synaptojanin 2 Binding Protein (SYNJ2BP) is essential to cell proliferation. Previous studies show that SYNJ2BP participates in sprouting angiogenesis, which plays an important part in several abnormal conditions including cancer. However, the activity of SYNJ2BP in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has not been elucidated yet. METHODS Firstly, real-time PCR and western blotting (WB) were adopted to evaluate SYNJ2BP expressions in HCC tissues and HCC cell lines. Secondly, we did follow-up and prognostic study to explore the association of SYNJ2BP expression and HCC patients prognosis. Thirdly, we induced or silenced SYNJ2BP expression on selected HCC cell lines and explored the function of SYNJ2BP in vitro and in vivo. Lastly, we conducted Cignal Finder Cancer 10-Pathway Reporter Array in combination with loss- and gain-of-function assay to investigate potential mechanisms. RESULTS Through various techniques we found that SYNJ2BP was decreased in HCC tissues and HCC cell lines. The subsequent analysis showed that low expression of SYNJ2BP was associated with tumor size, tumor nodule number, vascular invasion, TNM stage and BCLC stage, and was an independent risk factor for survival of HCC. Later, the in vitro experiments demonstrated that SYNJ2BP inhibited HCC cells invasion, migration and proliferation, also the in vivo testing revealed that SYNJ2BP inhibited tumor growth and metastasis. Finally, we also uncovered that SYNJ2BP inhibited HCC growth and metastasis through activating DLL4-mediated Notch signaling pathway. CONCLUSIONS Collectively, our data provide evidence that SYNJ2BP may act as a tumor suppressor during HCC development and could serve as a potential therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Liu
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
| | - Jiangjiao Zhou
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
| | - Ning Zhou
- Hepatobiliary Surgery Department, Hunan Provincial People's Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, 410005, China
| | - Jianwei Zhu
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
| | - Yong Feng
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
| | - Xiongying Miao
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China.
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50
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Activin Controls Ethanol Potentiation of Inhibitory Synaptic Transmission Through GABAA Receptors and Concomitant Behavioral Sedation. Neuropsychopharmacology 2016; 41:2024-33. [PMID: 26717882 PMCID: PMC4908639 DOI: 10.1038/npp.2015.372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2015] [Revised: 11/18/2015] [Accepted: 12/05/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Activin, a member of the transforming growth factor-β family, exerts multiple functions in the nervous system. Originally identified as a neurotrophic and -protective agent, increasing evidence implicates activin also in the regulation of glutamatergic and GABAergic neurotransmission in brain regions associated with cognitive and affective functions. To explore how activin impacts on ethanol potentiation of GABA synapses and related behavioral paradigms, we used an established transgenic model of disrupted activin receptor signaling, in which mice express a dominant-negative activin receptor IB mutant (dnActRIB) under the control of the CaMKIIα promoter. Comparison of GABAA receptor currents in hippocampal neurons from dnActRIB mice and wild-type mice showed that all concentrations of ethanol tested (30-150 mM) produced much stronger potentiation of phasic inhibition in the mutant preparation. In dentate granule cells of dnActRIB mice, tonic GABA inhibition was more pronounced than in wild-type neurons, but remained insensitive to low ethanol (30 mM) in both preparations. The heightened ethanol sensitivity of phasic inhibition in mutant hippocampi resulted from both pre- and postsynaptic mechanisms, the latter probably involving PKCɛ. At the behavioral level, ethanol produced significantly stronger sedation in dnActRIB mice than in wild-type mice, but did not affect consumption of ethanol or escalation after withdrawal. We link the abnormal narcotic response of dnActRIB mice to ethanol to the excessive potentiation of inhibitory neurotransmission. Our study suggests that activin counteracts oversedation from ethanol by curtailing its augmenting effect at GABA synapses.
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