1
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Yin M, Sun L, Wu S, Ma J, Zhang W, Ji X, Tang Z, Zhang X, Yang Y, Zhang X, Huang JW, Zheng S, Liu WJ, Ji C, Zhang LJ. TGFβ-mediated inhibition of hypodermal adipocyte progenitor differentiation promotes wound-induced skin fibrosis. Cell Prolif 2024:e13722. [PMID: 39072821 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.13722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2024] [Revised: 07/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Aberrant activation of dermal fibroblasts during wound healing often leads to debilitating fibrotic changes in the skin, such as scleroderma and keloids. However, the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms remain elusive. Here, we established a wound-induced skin fibrosis (WISF) mouse model in mature adult mice, characterised by excessive deposition of collagen bundles, loss of dermal adipocytes, and enrichment of DPP4+Ly6A+THY1+ hypodermal interstitial adipocyte progenitors (HI-APs) and pericytes, resembling human fibrotic skin diseases. This WISF model exhibited an age-dependent gain of fibrotic characteristics, contrasting with the wound-induced hair neogenesis observed in younger mice. Through comprehensive analyses of the WISF, we delineated a trajectory of fibroblast differentiation that originates from HI-APs. These progenitors highly expressed several extracellular matrix (ECM) genes and exhibited a TGFβ pathway signature. TGFβ was identified as the key signal to inhibit the adipogenic potential and maintain the fibrogenic potential of dermal APs. Additionally, administering a TGFβ receptor inhibitor to wound scar reduced the abundance of ECM-producing APs. Finally, analysis of human scleroderma skin tissues revealed a negative correlation between the expression of AP-, ECM-, and TGFβ pathway-related genes and PPARG. Overall, this study establishes a wound-induced skin fibrosis mouse model and demonstrates that TGFβ-mediated blockage of HI-AP differentiation is crucial for driving fibrotic pathology. Targeting HI-APs and adipogenesis may provide novel avenues for developing disease-modifying therapies for fibrotic skin diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meimei Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Lixiang Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- Central Laboratory, Zhongshan Hospital (Xiamen), Fudan University, Xiamen, China
| | - Shuai Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Jinhang Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Wenlu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Xiaoxuan Ji
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Zhichong Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Xiaowei Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Yichun Yang
- Central Laboratory, Zhongshan Hospital (Xiamen), Fudan University, Xiamen, China
| | - Xinyuan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Jin-Wen Huang
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Shaoluan Zheng
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital (Xiamen), Fudan University, Xiamen, China
| | - Wen-Jie Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Chao Ji
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Ling-Juan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
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2
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Patel JR, Joel MZ, Lee KK, Kambala A, Cornman H, Oladipo O, Taylor M, Imo BU, Ma EZ, Manjunath J, Kollhoff AL, Deng J, Parthasarathy V, Cravero K, Marani M, Szeto M, Zhao R, Sankararaman S, Li R, Henry S, Pritchard T, Rebecca V, Kwatra MM, Ho WJ, Dong X, Kang S, Kwatra SG. Single-Cell RNA Sequencing Reveals Dysregulated POSTN+WNT5A+ Fibroblast Subclusters in Prurigo Nodularis. J Invest Dermatol 2024; 144:1568-1578.e5. [PMID: 38246584 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2023.12.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 12/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
Prurigo nodularis (PN) is an intensely pruritic, inflammatory skin disease with a poorly understood pathogenesis. We performed single-cell transcriptomic profiling of 28,695 lesional and nonlesional PN cells. Lesional PN has increased dysregulated fibroblasts (FBs) and myofibroblasts. FBs in lesional PN were shifted toward a cancer-associated FB-like phenotype, with POSTN+WNT5A+ cancer-associated FBs increased in PN and similarly so in squamous cell carcinoma. A multicenter cohort study revealed an increased risk of squamous cell carcinoma and cancer-associated FB-associated malignancies (breast and colorectal) in patients with PN. Systemic fibroproliferative diseases (renal sclerosis and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis) were upregulated in patients with PN. Ligand-receptor analyses demonstrated an FB neuronal axis with FB-derived WNT5A and periostin interactions with neuronal receptors melanoma cell adhesion molecule and ITGAV. These findings identify a pathogenic and targetable POSTN+WNT5A+ FB subpopulation that may predispose cancer-associated FB-associated malignancies in patients with PN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jay R Patel
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Marina Z Joel
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Kevin K Lee
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Anusha Kambala
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Hannah Cornman
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Olusola Oladipo
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Matthew Taylor
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Brenda Umenita Imo
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Emily Z Ma
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Jaya Manjunath
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Alexander L Kollhoff
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - June Deng
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Varsha Parthasarathy
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Karen Cravero
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Melika Marani
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Mindy Szeto
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Ryan Zhao
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Sreenidhi Sankararaman
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Ruixiang Li
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Shanae Henry
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Thomas Pritchard
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Vito Rebecca
- Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Madan M Kwatra
- Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA; Department of Pharmacology & Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Won Jin Ho
- The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Bloomberg-Kimmel Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Xinzhong Dong
- The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Center for Sensory Biology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Sewon Kang
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Shawn G Kwatra
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.
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3
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Renaud L, Wilson CL, Lafyatis R, Schnapp LM, Feghali-Bostwick CA. Transcriptomic characterization of lung pericytes in systemic sclerosis-associated pulmonary fibrosis. iScience 2024; 27:110010. [PMID: 38868196 PMCID: PMC11167435 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.110010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a chronic disease characterized by fibrosis and vascular abnormalities in the skin and internal organs, including the lung. SSc-associated pulmonary fibrosis (SSc-PF) is the leading cause of death in SSc patients. Pericytes are key regulators of vascular integrity and endothelial function. The role that pericytes play in SSc-PF remains unclear. We compared the transcriptome of pericytes from SSc-PF lungs (SScL) to pericytes from normal lungs (NORML). We identified 1,179 differentially expressed genes in SScL pericytes. Pathways enriched in SScL pericytes included prostaglandin, PI3K-AKT, calcium, and vascular remodeling signaling. Decreased cyclic AMP production and altered phosphorylation of AKT in response to prostaglandin E2 in SScL pericytes demonstrate the functional consequence of changes in the prostaglandin pathway that may contribute to fibrosis. The transcriptomic signature of SSc lung pericytes suggests that they promote vascular dysfunction and contribute to the loss of protection against lung inflammation and fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ludivine Renaud
- Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA
| | - Carole L. Wilson
- Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Robert Lafyatis
- Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Lynn M. Schnapp
- Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53705, USA
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4
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Gumkowska-Sroka O, Kotyla K, Kotyla P. Immunogenetics of Systemic Sclerosis. Genes (Basel) 2024; 15:586. [PMID: 38790215 PMCID: PMC11121022 DOI: 10.3390/genes15050586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2024] [Revised: 04/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare autoimmune connective tissue disorder characterized by massive fibrosis, vascular damage, and immune imbalance. Advances in rheumatology and immunology over the past two decades have led to a redefinition of systemic sclerosis, shifting from its initial perception as primarily a "hyperfibrotic" state towards a recognition of systemic sclerosis as an immune-mediated disease. Consequently, the search for genetic markers has transitioned from focusing on fibrotic mechanisms to exploring immune regulatory pathways. Immunogenetics, an emerging field at the intersection of immunology, molecular biology, and genetics has provided valuable insights into inherited factors that influence immunity. Data from genetic studies conducted thus far indicate that alterations in genetic messages can significantly impact disease risk and progression. While certain genetic variations may confer protective effects, others may exacerbate disease susceptibility. This paper presents a comprehensive review of the most relevant genetic changes that influence both the risk and course of systemic sclerosis. Special emphasis is placed on factors regulating the immune response, recognizing their pivotal role in the pathogenesis of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Przemysław Kotyla
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Medical University of Silesia, Voivodeship Hospital No. 5, 41-200 Sosnowiec, Poland; (O.G.-S.); (K.K.)
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5
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Jimenez SA, Piera-Velazquez S. Cellular Transdifferentiation: A Crucial Mechanism of Fibrosis in Systemic Sclerosis. Curr Rheumatol Rev 2024; 20:388-404. [PMID: 37921216 DOI: 10.2174/0115733971261932231025045400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
Systemic Sclerosis (SSc) is a systemic autoimmune disease of unknown etiology with a highly complex pathogenesis that despite extensive investigation is not completely understood. The clinical and pathologic manifestations of the disease result from three distinct processes: 1) Severe and frequently progressive tissue fibrosis causing exaggerated and deleterious accumulation of interstitial collagens and other extracellular matrix molecules in the skin and various internal organs; 2) extensive fibroproliferative vascular lesions affecting small arteries and arterioles causing tissue ischemic alterations; and 3) cellular and humoral immunity abnormalities with the production of numerous autoantibodies, some with very high specificity for SSc. The fibrotic process in SSc is one of the main causes of disability and high mortality of the disease. Owing to its essentially universal presence and the severity of its clinical effects, the mechanisms involved in the development and progression of tissue fibrosis have been extensively investigated, however, despite intensive investigation, the precise molecular mechanisms have not been fully elucidated. Several recent studies have suggested that cellular transdifferentiation resulting in the phenotypic conversion of various cell types into activated myofibroblasts may be one important mechanism. Here, we review the potential role that cellular transdifferentiation may play in the development of severe and often progressive tissue fibrosis in SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio A Jimenez
- Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Biology, Jefferson Institute of Molecular Medicine and Scleroderma Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia 19107, USA
| | - Sonsoles Piera-Velazquez
- Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Biology, Jefferson Institute of Molecular Medicine and Scleroderma Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia 19107, USA
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6
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Leask A, Naik A, Stratton RJ. Back to the future: targeting the extracellular matrix to treat systemic sclerosis. Nat Rev Rheumatol 2023; 19:713-723. [PMID: 37789119 DOI: 10.1038/s41584-023-01032-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
Fibrosis is the excessive deposition of a stable extracellular matrix (ECM); fibrotic tissue is composed principally of highly crosslinked type I collagen and highly contractile myofibroblasts. Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a multisystem autoimmune connective tissue disease characterized by skin and organ fibrosis. The fibrotic process has been recognized in SSc for >40 years, but drugs with demonstrable efficacy against SSc fibrosis in ameliorating the lung involvement have only recently been identified. Unfortunately, these treatments are ineffective at improving the skin score in patients with SSc. Previous clinical trials in SSc have largely focused on the cross-purposing of anti-inflammatory drugs and the use of immunosuppressive drugs from the transplantation field, which address inflammatory and/or autoimmune processes. Limited examination has taken place of specific anti-fibrotic agents developed through their ability to directly target the ECM in SSc by, for example, alleviating the persistent matrix stiffness and mechanotransduction that might be required for both the initiation and maintenance of fibrosis, including in SSc. However, because of the importance of the ECM in the SSc phenotype, attempts have now been made to identify drugs that specifically target the ECM, including some drugs that are currently under consideration for the treatment of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Leask
- College of Dentistry, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada.
| | - Angha Naik
- College of Dentistry, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Richard J Stratton
- Centre for Rheumatology and Connective Tissue Diseases, UCL Division of Medicine, London, UK
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7
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Ko J, Noviani M, Chellamuthu VR, Albani S, Low AHL. The Pathogenesis of Systemic Sclerosis: The Origin of Fibrosis and Interlink with Vasculopathy and Autoimmunity. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14287. [PMID: 37762589 PMCID: PMC10532389 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241814287] [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: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disease associated with increased mortality and poor morbidity, impairing the quality of life in patients. Whilst we know that SSc affects multiple organs via vasculopathy, inflammation, and fibrosis, its exact pathophysiology remains elusive. Microvascular injury and vasculopathy are the initial pathological features of the disease. Clinically, the vasculopathy in SSc is manifested as Raynaud's phenomenon (reversible vasospasm in reaction to the cold or emotional stress) and digital ulcers due to ischemic injury. There are several reports that medications for vasculopathy, such as bosentan and soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) modulators, improve not only vasculopathy but also dermal fibrosis, suggesting that vasculopathy is important in SSc. Although vasculopathy is an important initial step of the pathogenesis for SSc, it is still unclear how vasculopathy is related to inflammation and fibrosis. In this review, we focused on the clinical evidence for vasculopathy, the major cellular players for the pathogenesis, including pericytes, adipocytes, endothelial cells (ECs), and myofibroblasts, and their signaling pathway to elucidate the relationship among vasculopathy, inflammation, and fibrosis in SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junsuk Ko
- Duke-National University of Singapore Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore; (J.K.); (M.N.); (S.A.)
| | - Maria Noviani
- Duke-National University of Singapore Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore; (J.K.); (M.N.); (S.A.)
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore 169608, Singapore
- Translational Immunology Institute, SingHealth Duke-National University of Singapore Academic Medical Centre, Singapore 169856, Singapore;
| | - Vasuki Ranjani Chellamuthu
- Translational Immunology Institute, SingHealth Duke-National University of Singapore Academic Medical Centre, Singapore 169856, Singapore;
| | - Salvatore Albani
- Duke-National University of Singapore Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore; (J.K.); (M.N.); (S.A.)
- Translational Immunology Institute, SingHealth Duke-National University of Singapore Academic Medical Centre, Singapore 169856, Singapore;
| | - Andrea Hsiu Ling Low
- Duke-National University of Singapore Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore; (J.K.); (M.N.); (S.A.)
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore 169608, Singapore
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8
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YAMATE J. Stem cell pathology: histogenesis of malignant fibrous histiocytoma and characterization of myofibroblasts appearing in fibrotic lesions. J Vet Med Sci 2023; 85:895-906. [PMID: 37460298 PMCID: PMC10539815 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.23-0225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The concept of "stem cell pathology" is to establish the role of the stem cells by exploring their contribution to lesion development. The somatic stem cells are present in the body. Malignant fibrous histiocytoma (MFH; recently named "undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma") includes pluripotential undifferentiated mesenchymal stem cells as a cell element. An antibody (A3) generated by using rat MFH cells as the antigen labels somatic stem cells such as bone marrow stem cells and immature endothelial cells and pericytes, as well as immature epithelial cells in epithelialization. By using A3 and other antibodies recognizing somatic stem cells, it is considered that myofibroblasts appearing in rat fibrotic lesions are developed partly from immature hepatic stellate cells in hepatic fibrosis, immature pancreatic stellate cells in pancreatic fibrosis, pericytes/endothelial cells in neovascularization in injured tissues, as well as via the epithelial-mesenchymal transition. These progenitors may be in the stem cell lineage. In this review, the author introduces the histogenesis of MFH and the characteristics of myofibroblasts appearing in fibrosis, based mainly on the author's studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jyoji YAMATE
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, Osaka Metropolitan University, Osaka, Japan
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9
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Spasovski V, Andjelkovic M, Parezanovic M, Komazec J, Ugrin M, Klaassen K, Stojiljkovic M. The Role of Autophagy and Apoptosis in Affected Skin and Lungs in Patients with Systemic Sclerosis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11212. [PMID: 37446389 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241311212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a complex autoimmune inflammatory disorder with multiple organ involvement. Skin changes present the hallmark of SSc and coincide with poor prognosis. Interstitial lung diseases (ILD) are the most widely reported complications in SSc patients and the primary cause of death. It has been proposed that the processes of autophagy and apoptosis could play a significant role in the pathogenesis and clinical course of different autoimmune diseases, and accordingly in SSc. In this manuscript, we review the current knowledge of autophagy and apoptosis processes in the skin and lungs of patients with SSc. Profiling of markers involved in these processes in skin cells can be useful to recognize the stage of fibrosis and can be used in the clinical stratification of patients. Furthermore, the knowledge of the molecular mechanisms underlying these processes enables the repurposing of already known drugs and the development of new biological therapeutics that aim to reverse fibrosis by promoting apoptosis and regulate autophagy in personalized treatment approach. In SSc-ILD patients, the molecular signature of the lung tissues of each patient could be a distinctive criterion in order to establish the correct lung pattern, which directly impacts the course and prognosis of the disease. In this case, resolving the role of tissue-specific markers, which could be detected in the circulation using sensitive molecular methods, would be an important step toward development of non-invasive diagnostic procedures that enable early and precise diagnosis and preventing the high mortality of this rare disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vesna Spasovski
- Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Vojvode Stepe 444a, 11042 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Marina Andjelkovic
- Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Vojvode Stepe 444a, 11042 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Marina Parezanovic
- Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Vojvode Stepe 444a, 11042 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Jovana Komazec
- Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Vojvode Stepe 444a, 11042 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Milena Ugrin
- Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Vojvode Stepe 444a, 11042 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Kristel Klaassen
- Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Vojvode Stepe 444a, 11042 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Maja Stojiljkovic
- Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Vojvode Stepe 444a, 11042 Belgrade, Serbia
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10
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McElhinney K, Irnaten M, O’Brien C. p53 and Myofibroblast Apoptosis in Organ Fibrosis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24076737. [PMID: 37047710 PMCID: PMC10095465 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24076737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Organ fibrosis represents a dysregulated, maladaptive wound repair response that results in progressive disruption of normal tissue architecture leading to detrimental deterioration in physiological function, and significant morbidity/mortality. Fibrosis is thought to contribute to nearly 50% of all deaths in the Western world with current treatment modalities effective in slowing disease progression but not effective in restoring organ function or reversing fibrotic changes. When physiological wound repair is complete, myofibroblasts are programmed to undergo cell death and self-clearance, however, in fibrosis there is a characteristic absence of myofibroblast apoptosis. It has been shown that in fibrosis, myofibroblasts adopt an apoptotic-resistant, highly proliferative phenotype leading to persistent myofibroblast activation and perpetuation of the fibrotic disease process. Recently, this pathological adaptation has been linked to dysregulated expression of tumour suppressor gene p53. In this review, we discuss p53 dysregulation and apoptotic failure in myofibroblasts and demonstrate its consistent link to fibrotic disease development in all types of organ fibrosis. An enhanced understanding of the role of p53 dysregulation and myofibroblast apoptosis may aid in future novel therapeutic and/or diagnostic strategies in organ fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kealan McElhinney
- UCD Clinical Research Centre, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, D07 R2WY Dublin, Ireland
| | - Mustapha Irnaten
- UCD Clinical Research Centre, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, D07 R2WY Dublin, Ireland
| | - Colm O’Brien
- UCD Clinical Research Centre, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, D07 R2WY Dublin, Ireland
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11
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Patel JR, Joel MZ, Lee KK, Kambala A, Cornman H, Oladipo O, Taylor M, Deng J, Parthasarathy V, Cravero K, Marani M, Zhao R, Sankararam S, Li R, Pritchard T, Rebecca V, Kwatra MM, Ho WJ, Dong X, Kang S, Kwatra SG. Single-cell RNA sequencing reveals dysregulated fibroblast subclusters in prurigo nodularis. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.01.29.526050. [PMID: 36778229 PMCID: PMC9915465 DOI: 10.1101/2023.01.29.526050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Prurigo nodularis (PN) is an intensely pruritic, chronic inflammatory skin disease that disproportionately affects black patients. However, the pathogenesis of PN is poorly understood. We performed single-cell transcriptomic profiling, ligand receptor analysis and cell trajectory analysis of 28,695 lesional and non-lesional PN skin cells to uncover disease-identifying cell compositions and genetic characteristics. We uncovered a dysregulated role for fibroblasts (FBs) and myofibroblasts as a key pathogenic element in PN, which were significantly increased in PN lesional skin. We defined seven unique subclusters of FBs in PN skin and observed a shift of PN lesional FBs towards a cancer-associated fibroblast (CAF)-like phenotype, with WNT5A+ CAFs increased in the skin of PN patients and similarly so in squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). A multicenter PN cohort study subsequently revealed an increased risk of SCC as well as additional CAF-associated malignancies in PN patients, including breast and colorectal cancers. Systemic fibroproliferative diseases were also upregulated in PN patients, including renal sclerosis and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Ligand receptor analyses demonstrated increased FB1-derived WNT5A and periostin interactions with neuronal receptors MCAM and ITGAV, suggesting a fibroblast-neuronal axis in PN. Type I IFN responses in immune cells and increased angiogenesis/permeability in endothelial cells were also observed. As compared to atopic dermatitis (AD) and psoriasis (PSO) patients, increased mesenchymal dysregulation is unique to PN with an intermediate Th2/Th17 phenotype between atopic dermatitis and psoriasis. These findings identify a pathogenic role for CAFs in PN, including a novel targetable WNT5A+ fibroblast subpopulation and CAF-associated malignancies in PN patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jay R. Patel
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Marina Z. Joel
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Kevin K. Lee
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Anusha Kambala
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Hannah Cornman
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Olusola Oladipo
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Matthew Taylor
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - June Deng
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Varsha Parthasarathy
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Karen Cravero
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Melika Marani
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Ryan Zhao
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Sreenidhi Sankararam
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Ruixiang Li
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Thomas Pritchard
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Vito Rebecca
- Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Madan M. Kwatra
- Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Won Jin Ho
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Bloomberg-Kimmel Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Xinzhong Dong
- The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Center for Sensory Biology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Sewon Kang
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Shawn G. Kwatra
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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12
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Servaas NH, Hiddingh S, Chouri E, Wichers CGK, Affandi AJ, Ottria A, Bekker CPJ, Cossu M, Silva-Cardoso SC, van der Kroef M, Hinrichs AC, Carvalheiro T, Vazirpanah N, Beretta L, Rossato M, Bonte-Mineur F, Radstake TRDJ, Kuiper JJW, Boes M, Pandit A. Nuclear Receptor Subfamily 4A Signaling as a Key Disease Pathway of CD1c+ Dendritic Cell Dysregulation in Systemic Sclerosis. Arthritis Rheumatol 2023; 75:279-292. [PMID: 36482877 PMCID: PMC10108054 DOI: 10.1002/art.42319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study was undertaken to identify key disease pathways driving conventional dendritic cell (cDC) alterations in systemic sclerosis (SSc). METHODS Transcriptomic profiling was performed on peripheral blood CD1c+ cDCs (cDC2s) isolated from 12 healthy donors and 48 patients with SSc, including all major disease subtypes. We performed differential expression analysis for the different SSc subtypes and healthy donors to uncover genes dysregulated in SSc. To identify biologically relevant pathways, we built a gene coexpression network using weighted gene correlation network analysis. We validated the role of key transcriptional regulators using chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) sequencing and in vitro functional assays. RESULTS We identified 17 modules of coexpressed genes in cDCs that correlated with SSc subtypes and key clinical traits, including autoantibodies, skin score, and occurrence of interstitial lung disease. A module of immunoregulatory genes was markedly down-regulated in patients with the diffuse SSc subtype characterized by severe fibrosis. Transcriptional regulatory network analysis performed on this module predicted nuclear receptor 4A (NR4A) subfamily genes (NR4A1, NR4A2, NR4A3) as the key transcriptional regulators of inflammation. Indeed, ChIP-sequencing analysis indicated that these NR4A members target numerous differentially expressed genes in SSc cDC2s. Inclusion of NR4A receptor agonists in culture-based experiments provided functional proof that dysregulation of NR4As affects cytokine production by cDC2s and modulates downstream T cell activation. CONCLUSION NR4A1, NR4A2, and NR4A3 are important regulators of immunosuppressive and fibrosis-associated pathways in SSc cDCs. Thus, the NR4A family represents novel potential targets to restore cDC homeostasis in SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nila H Servaas
- Center for Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Sanne Hiddingh
- Center for Translational Immunology and Ophthalmo-Immunology Unit, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Eleni Chouri
- Center for Translational Immunology and Department of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Catharina G K Wichers
- Center for Translational Immunology and Department of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Alsya J Affandi
- Center for Translational Immunology and Department of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Andrea Ottria
- Center for Translational Immunology and Department of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Cornelis P J Bekker
- Center for Translational Immunology and Department of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Marta Cossu
- Center for Translational Immunology and Department of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Sandra C Silva-Cardoso
- Center for Translational Immunology and Department of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Maarten van der Kroef
- Center for Translational Immunology and Department of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Anneline C Hinrichs
- Center for Translational Immunology and Department of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Tiago Carvalheiro
- Center for Translational Immunology and Department of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Nadia Vazirpanah
- Center for Translational Immunology and Department of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Lorenzo Beretta
- Scleroderma Unit, Referral Center for Systemic Autoimmune Diseases, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Marzia Rossato
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Femke Bonte-Mineur
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Maasstad Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Timothy R D J Radstake
- Center for Translational Immunology and Department of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Jonas J W Kuiper
- Center for Translational Immunology and Ophthalmo-Immunology Unit, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Marianne Boes
- Department of Pediatrics, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, The Netherlands
| | - Aridaman Pandit
- Center for Translational Immunology and Department of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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13
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Nanri Y, Nunomura S, Honda Y, Takedomi H, Yamaguchi Y, Izuhara K. A positive loop formed by SOX11 and periostin upregulates TGF-β signals leading to skin fibrosis. J Invest Dermatol 2022; 143:989-998.e7. [PMID: 36584910 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2022.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a chronic, heterogenous disease of connective tissue characterized by organ fibrosis together with vascular injury and autoimmunity. Transforming growth factor (TGF)-β plays a central role in generating fibrosis, including SSc. Periostin is a matricellular protein playing a key role in the generation of fibrosis by amplifying the TGF-β signals. SOX (SRY-related HMG box) 11 is a transcription factor playing several important roles in organ development in embryos. We have previously shown that SOX11 induces periostin expression. However, the roles of the interactions among the TGF-β signals, periostin, and SOX11 remain unknown in the pathogenesis of SSc. In this study, we found that most clones of dermal fibroblasts derived from SSc patients showed constitutive, high expression of SOX11, which is significantly induced by TGF-β1. SOX11 forms a positive loop with periostin to activate the TGF-β signals in SSc dermal fibroblasts. Genetic deletion of Sox11 in Postn-expressing fibroblasts impairs dermal fibrosis by bleomycin. Moreover, using the DNA microarray method, we identified several fibrotic factors dependent on the TGF-β/SOX11/periostin pathway in SSc dermal fibroblasts. Our findings, taken together, show that a positive loop formed by SOX11 and periostin in fibroblasts upregulates the TGF-β signals, leading to skin fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasuhiro Nanri
- Division of Medical Biochemistry, Department of Biomolecular Sciences, Saga, Japan
| | - Satoshi Nunomura
- Division of Medical Biochemistry, Department of Biomolecular Sciences, Saga, Japan
| | - Yuko Honda
- Division of Medical Biochemistry, Department of Biomolecular Sciences, Saga, Japan
| | | | - Yukie Yamaguchi
- Department of Environmental Immuno-Dermatology, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Kenji Izuhara
- Division of Medical Biochemistry, Department of Biomolecular Sciences, Saga, Japan.
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14
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Akasaka Y. The Role of Mesenchymal Stromal Cells in Tissue Repair and Fibrosis. Adv Wound Care (New Rochelle) 2022; 11:561-574. [PMID: 34841889 DOI: 10.1089/wound.2021.0037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Significance: The present review covers an overview of the current understanding of biology of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) and suggests an important role of their differential potential for clinical approaches associated with tissue repair and fibrosis. Recent Advances: Genetic lineage tracing technology has enabled the delineation of cellular hierarchies and examination of MSC cellular origins and myofibroblast sources. This technique has led to the characterization of perivascular MSC populations and suggests that pericytes might provide a local source of tissue-specific MSCs, which can differentiate into tissue-specific cells for tissue repair and fibrosis. Autologous adipose tissue MSCs led to the advance in tissue engineering for regeneration of damaged tissues. Critical Issues: Recent investigation has revealed that perivascular MSCs might be the origin of myofibroblasts during fibrosis development, and perivascular MSCs might be the major source of myofibroblasts in fibrogenic disease. Adipose tissue MSCs combined with cytokines and biomaterials are available in the treatment of soft tissue defect and skin wound healing. Future Directions: Further investigation of the roles of perivascular MSCs may enable new approaches in the treatment of fibrogenic disease; moreover, perivascular MSCs might have potential as an antifibrotic target for fibrogenic disease. Autologous adipose tissue MSCs combined with cytokines and biomaterials will be an alternative method for the treatment of soft tissue defect and skin wound healing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshikiyo Akasaka
- Division of Research Promotion and Development, Advanced Research Center, Toho University Graduate School of Medicine, Ota-ku, Japan.,Department of Pathology, Toho University School of Medicine, Ota-ku, Japan
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15
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Zanin-Silva DC, Santana-Gonçalves M, Kawashima-Vasconcelos MY, Lima-Júnior JR, Dias JBE, Moraes DA, Covas DT, Malmegrim KCR, Ramalho L, Oliveira MC. Autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation promotes connective tissue remodeling in systemic sclerosis patients. Arthritis Res Ther 2022; 24:95. [PMID: 35488348 PMCID: PMC9052524 DOI: 10.1186/s13075-022-02779-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (AHSCT) treats patients with severe and progressive systemic sclerosis (SSc). However, basic mechanisms associated with the therapeutic efficacy of the procedure are not entirely understood. We aimed to evaluate how AHSCT affects skin fibrosis in SSc patients. METHODS Clinical data, serum, and skin samples from 39 SSc patients who underwent AHSCT were retrospectively evaluated. Skin biopsies were analyzed by immunohistochemistry with anti-MMP-1, -MMP-2, -MMP-3, -MMP-9, -TIMP-1, -α-SMA, -TGF-β, and -NF-κB p65 antibodies, and stained with hematoxylin and eosin and picrosirius red to assess skin thickness and collagen density, respectively. Serum samples were evaluated by Multiplex Assay for COL1A1, COL4A1, FGF-1, MMP-1, MMP-3, MMP-12, MMP-13, PDGF-AA, PDGF-BB, S100A9, and TIMP-1 levels and compared to healthy controls. RESULTS After AHSCT, SSc patients showed clinical improvement in skin involvement, assessed by modified Rodnan's skin score (mRSS). Histologically, collagen density and skin thickness decreased after AHSCT. Immunohistochemical analyses showed increased expression of MMP-2, MMP-3, MMP-9, and TIMP-1 after AHSCT, whereas expression of NF-κB p65 decreased. At baseline, serum levels of COL4A1 and S100A9 were higher than in healthy controls. Serum levels of S100A9 normalized after AHCST in SSc patients compared to controls. Serum levels of PDGF-AA, PDGF-BB, TIMP-1, and MMP-1 decreased, while COL1A1 increased after AHSCT in SSc patients. No changes were detected in MMP-3, MMP-12, MMP-13, and FGF-1 serum levels after AHSCT. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that the therapeutic effects of AHSCT on skin fibrosis are related to changes in molecules associated with connective tissue maintenance and inflammation in SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Djúlio C Zanin-Silva
- Center for Cell-based Therapy, Regional Hemotherapy Center of the Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil.,Basic and Applied Immunology Graduate Program, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Maynara Santana-Gonçalves
- Center for Cell-based Therapy, Regional Hemotherapy Center of the Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil.,Oncology, Stem cell and Cell-Therapy Graduate Program, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Marianna Y Kawashima-Vasconcelos
- Center for Cell-based Therapy, Regional Hemotherapy Center of the Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil.,Internal Medicine Graduate Program, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - João R Lima-Júnior
- Center for Cell-based Therapy, Regional Hemotherapy Center of the Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil.,Department of Immuno-Oncology, Beckman Research Institute City of Hope, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Juliana B E Dias
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Avenida dos Bandeirantes 3900, Ribeirão Preto, SP, 14048-900, Brazil
| | - Daniela A Moraes
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Avenida dos Bandeirantes 3900, Ribeirão Preto, SP, 14048-900, Brazil
| | - Dimas T Covas
- Center for Cell-based Therapy, Regional Hemotherapy Center of the Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Kelen C R Malmegrim
- Center for Cell-based Therapy, Regional Hemotherapy Center of the Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil.,Oncology, Stem cell and Cell-Therapy Graduate Program, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil.,Department of Clinical, Toxicological and Bromatological Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Leandra Ramalho
- Department of Pathology and Legal Medicine, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Maria Carolina Oliveira
- Center for Cell-based Therapy, Regional Hemotherapy Center of the Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil. .,Oncology, Stem cell and Cell-Therapy Graduate Program, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil. .,Department of Internal Medicine, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Avenida dos Bandeirantes 3900, Ribeirão Preto, SP, 14048-900, Brazil.
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16
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Puri N, Ahuja US, Gupta R, Gandhi P, Punia RS, Choudhary A. Analysis of Expression of Myofibroblasts in Oral Submucous Fibrosis: An Immunohistochemistry Study. Open Dent J 2022. [DOI: 10.2174/18742106-v16-e2201312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background:
Oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) is a chronic disease that produces tissue fibrosis and is considered to be a potentially malignant disorder. The exact pathogenesis and malignant conversion mechanism of this disorder are still unknown. Myofibroblasts have been implicated as one of the possible pathological mechanisms responsible for the pathophysiology of OSMF. The present study was conducted to evaluate the expression of myofibroblasts (MF) in normal mucosa and different grades of OSMF.
Materials & Methods:
The sample consisted of a total of 80 specimens. The study group included specimens from clinically and histopathologically confirmed OSMF patients. The specimens were divided into four groups. Group 1 consisted of 19 specimens of grade III OSMF. Group II had 20 specimens of grade II OSMF, Group 3 with 21 specimens of grade I OSMF, and Group 4 constituted a control group of 20 normal epithelium specimens. Two sections each from all the four groups were obtained. While one section was stained with H and E, the other section was stained immunohistochemically using α-smooth muscle antibody. For analysis, the expression of myofibroblasts was categorized as strong, moderate, weak, or absent. All the results were recorded and subjected to statistical analysis.
Results:
In OSMF patients, irrespective of the grade, the expression of myofibroblast was strong in 28.33 percent of the patients, while it was moderate and weak in 30.00 percent and 40.00 percent of the patients, respectively. Expression of myofibroblast was noted to be significantly increased in grade III OSMF patients as compared to controls as well as grade I OSMF patients (p-value <0.05).
Conclusion:
Myofibroblasts expression is significantly raised in OSMF patients. The expression can also be correlated within different grades of OSMF where advanced stages show comparatively high expression of these smooth muscles like fibroblasts. Hence, we suggest that myofibroblasts could be assessed as markers for analyzing the progression of OSMF.
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17
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Ocon A, Lokineni S, Korman B. Understanding and Therapeutically Targeting the Scleroderma Myofibroblast. CURRENT TREATMENT OPTIONS IN RHEUMATOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s40674-021-00189-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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18
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Cardoneanu A, Burlui AM, Macovei LA, Bratoiu I, Richter P, Rezus E. Targeting Systemic Sclerosis from Pathogenic Mechanisms to Clinical Manifestations: Why IL-6? Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10020318. [PMID: 35203527 PMCID: PMC8869570 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10020318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SS) is a chronic autoimmune disorder, which has both cutaneous and systemic clinical manifestations. The disease pathogenesis includes a triad of manifestations, such as vasculopathy, autoimmunity, and fibrosis. Interleukin-6 (IL-6) has a special role in SS development, both in vascular damage and in the development of fibrosis. In the early stages, IL-6 participates in vascular endothelial activation and apoptosis, leading to the release of damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs), which maintain inflammation and autoimmunity. Moreover, IL-6 plays an important role in the development of fibrotic changes by mediating the transformation of fibroblasts into myofibroblasts. All of these are associated with disabling clinical manifestations, such as skin thickening, pulmonary fibrosis, pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), heart failure, and dysphagia. Tocilizumab is a humanized monoclonal antibody that inhibits IL-6 by binding to the specific receptor, thus preventing its proinflammatory and fibrotic actions. Anti-IL-6 therapy with Tocilizumab is a new hope for SS patients, with data from clinical trials supporting the favorable effect, especially on skin and lung damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anca Cardoneanu
- Department of Rheumatology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T Popa”, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.M.B.); (L.A.M.); (I.B.); (P.R.); (E.R.)
- Rehabilitation Hospital, 700661 Iasi, Romania
- Correspondence:
| | - Alexandra Maria Burlui
- Department of Rheumatology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T Popa”, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.M.B.); (L.A.M.); (I.B.); (P.R.); (E.R.)
- Rehabilitation Hospital, 700661 Iasi, Romania
| | - Luana Andreea Macovei
- Department of Rheumatology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T Popa”, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.M.B.); (L.A.M.); (I.B.); (P.R.); (E.R.)
- Rehabilitation Hospital, 700661 Iasi, Romania
| | - Ioana Bratoiu
- Department of Rheumatology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T Popa”, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.M.B.); (L.A.M.); (I.B.); (P.R.); (E.R.)
- Rehabilitation Hospital, 700661 Iasi, Romania
| | - Patricia Richter
- Department of Rheumatology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T Popa”, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.M.B.); (L.A.M.); (I.B.); (P.R.); (E.R.)
- Rehabilitation Hospital, 700661 Iasi, Romania
| | - Elena Rezus
- Department of Rheumatology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T Popa”, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.M.B.); (L.A.M.); (I.B.); (P.R.); (E.R.)
- Rehabilitation Hospital, 700661 Iasi, Romania
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19
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Wilson SE. Fibrosis Is a Basement Membrane-Related Disease in the Cornea: Injury and Defective Regeneration of Basement Membranes May Underlie Fibrosis in Other Organs. Cells 2022; 11:309. [PMID: 35053425 PMCID: PMC8774201 DOI: 10.3390/cells11020309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Every organ develops fibrosis that compromises functions in response to infections, injuries, or diseases. The cornea is a relatively simple, avascular organ that offers an exceptional model to better understand the pathophysiology of the fibrosis response. Injury and defective regeneration of the epithelial basement membrane (EBM) or the endothelial Descemet's basement membrane (DBM) triggers the development of myofibroblasts from resident corneal fibroblasts and bone marrow-derived blood borne fibrocytes due to the increased entry of TGF beta-1/-2 into the stroma from the epithelium and tears or residual corneal endothelium and aqueous humor. The myofibroblasts, and disordered extracellular matrix these cells produce, persist until the source of injury is removed, the EBM and/or DBM are regenerated, or replaced surgically, resulting in decreased stromal TGF beta requisite for myofibroblast survival. A similar BM injury-related pathophysiology can underly the development of fibrosis in other organs such as skin and lung. The normal liver does not contain traditional BMs but develops sinusoidal endothelial BMs in many fibrotic diseases and models. However, normal hepatic stellate cells produce collagen type IV and perlecan that can modulate TGF beta localization and cognate receptor binding in the space of Dissé. BM-related fibrosis is deserving of more investigation in all organs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven E Wilson
- Cole Eye Institute, I-32, Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
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20
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CXCL4 drives fibrosis by promoting several key cellular and molecular processes. Cell Rep 2022; 38:110189. [PMID: 34986347 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2021.110189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2020] [Revised: 02/28/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis is a major cause of mortality worldwide, characterized by myofibroblast activation and excessive extracellular matrix deposition. Systemic sclerosis is a prototypic fibrotic disease in which CXCL4 is increased and strongly correlates with skin and lung fibrosis. Here we aim to elucidate the role of CXCL4 in fibrosis development. CXCL4 levels are increased in multiple inflammatory and fibrotic mouse models, and, using CXCL4-deficient mice, we demonstrate the essential role of CXCL4 in promoting fibrotic events in the skin, lungs, and heart. Overexpressing human CXCL4 in mice aggravates, whereas blocking CXCL4 reduces, bleomycin-induced fibrosis. Single-cell ligand-receptor analysis predicts CXCL4 to affect endothelial cells and fibroblasts. In vitro, we confirm that CXCL4 directly induces myofibroblast differentiation and collagen synthesis in different precursor cells, including endothelial cells, by stimulating endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition. Our findings identify a pivotal role of CXCL4 in fibrosis, further substantiating the potential role of neutralizing CXCL4 as a therapeutic strategy.
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21
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Yamamoto A, Saito T, Hosoya T, Kawahata K, Asano Y, Sato S, Mizoguchi F, Yasuda S, Kohsaka H. Therapeutic effect of cyclin-dependent kinase 4/6 inhibitor on dermal fibrosis in murine models of systemic sclerosis. Arthritis Rheumatol 2021; 74:860-870. [PMID: 34882985 DOI: 10.1002/art.42042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Histology of systemic sclerosis (SSc) includes an increased number of myofibroblasts, where transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) plays a crucial role to promote dermal fibrosis. The objectives of this study were to examine whether the inhibition of cell cycle with cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) 4/6 inhibitor suppress fibroblast proliferation and the differentiation into myofibroblasts, and the therapeutic effect of a CDK4/6 inhibitor on dermal fibrosis in murine models of SSc in monotherapy or in combination with TGF-β receptor inhibitor (TGFβRI). METHODS SSc fibroblasts were cultured in the presence or absence of TGF-β. Effects of palbociclib (CDKI), a CDK4/6 inhibitor, on fibroblast proliferation and TGF-β-induced differentiation into myofibroblasts were examined with BrdU uptake, immunofluorescence, and immunoblotting. Hypochlorous acid (HOCl)- and bleomycin-induced dermal fibrosis models were used to study the effect of CDKI on dermal fibrosis in monotherapy or in combination with galunisertib, a TGFβRI. RESULTS CDKI suppressed the proliferation of SSc fibroblasts and their TGF-β-induced differentiation into myofibroblast without inhibiting canonical and non-canonical TGF-β signals. Treatment of dermal fibrosis models with CDKI decreased dermal thickness and collagen content, as well as fibroblast proliferation and myofibroblast number. The combination therapy with CDKI and TGFβRI exerted additive anti-fibrotic effects. Mechanistically, CDKI suppressed the expression of cellular communication network (CCN) 2 and cadherin-11 important for fibrosis. CONCLUSION We demonstrated the therapeutic effect of CDKI on dermal fibrosis in monotherapy or in combination with TGFβRI. CDKI should be a novel agent for the treatment of SSc, which may be used with TGFβRI to increase the efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akio Yamamoto
- Department of Rheumatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tetsuya Saito
- Department of Rheumatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tadashi Hosoya
- Department of Rheumatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kimito Kawahata
- Department of Rheumatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshihide Asano
- Department of Dermatology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shinichi Sato
- Department of Dermatology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Fumitaka Mizoguchi
- Department of Rheumatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shinsuke Yasuda
- Department of Rheumatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Kohsaka
- Department of Rheumatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), Tokyo, Japan
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22
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Thoreau B, Chaigne B, Renaud A, Mouthon L. Pathophysiology of systemic sclerosis. Presse Med 2021; 50:104087. [PMID: 34718115 DOI: 10.1016/j.lpm.2021.104087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare connective tissue disease characterized by vascular remodeling, fibroblast activation and extra-cellular matrix production in excess and autoimmunity. Environmental factors including mainly silica and solvents have been assumed to contribute to the development of SSc, together with genetic factors including gene variants implicated in innate immunity such as IRF5 and STAT4, and epigenetic factors including histone post-translational modifications, DNA hypomethylation, and microRNAs or long- non coding RNAs system were reported to participate in immune activation and fibrosis processes in patients with SSc. A number of animal models of SSc have been set up over the years, including genetic and induced SSc models. These models, together with data obtained from human SSc patients, contributed to better understand the mechanisms contributing to vasculopathy and fibrosis. Alongside the pathophysiological process of SSc, several cellular and molecular actors are involved, such as dysregulations in the innate and adaptive immune cells, of the fibroblast, the implication of pro-inflammatory and pro-fibrosing signaling pathways such as the Wnt, TGF-β pathways or other cytokines, with a strong imprint of oxidative stress. The whole lead to the overactivity of the fibroblast with genetic dysregulation, apoptosis defect, hyperproduction of elements of extracellular matrix, and finally the phenomena of vasculopathy and fibrosis. These advances contribute to open new therapeutic areas through the design of biologics and small molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Thoreau
- Institut Cochin, Inserm U1016, CNRS UMR 8104,Université de Paris, Paris, France; Service de Médecine Interne, Centre de Référence Maladies Systémiques Autoimmunes Rares d'Ile de France, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Paris, France
| | - Benjamin Chaigne
- Institut Cochin, Inserm U1016, CNRS UMR 8104,Université de Paris, Paris, France; Service de Médecine Interne, Centre de Référence Maladies Systémiques Autoimmunes Rares d'Ile de France, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Paris, France
| | - Arthur Renaud
- Institut Cochin, Inserm U1016, CNRS UMR 8104,Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Luc Mouthon
- Institut Cochin, Inserm U1016, CNRS UMR 8104,Université de Paris, Paris, France; Service de Médecine Interne, Centre de Référence Maladies Systémiques Autoimmunes Rares d'Ile de France, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Paris, France.
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Soliman H, Theret M, Scott W, Hill L, Underhill TM, Hinz B, Rossi FMV. Multipotent stromal cells: One name, multiple identities. Cell Stem Cell 2021; 28:1690-1707. [PMID: 34624231 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2021.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Multipotent stromal cells (MSCs) are vital for development, maintenance, function, and regeneration of most tissues. They can differentiate along multiple connective lineages, but unlike most other stem/progenitor cells, they carry out various other functions while maintaining their developmental potential. MSCs function as damage sensors, respond to injury by fostering regeneration through secretion of trophic factors as well as extracellular matrix (ECM) molecules, and contribute to fibrotic reparative processes when regeneration fails. Tissue-specific MSC identity, fate(s), and function(s) are being resolved through fate mapping coupled with single cell "omics," providing unparalleled insights into the secret lives of tissue-resident MSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hesham Soliman
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada; Aspect Biosystems, Vancouver, BC V6P 6P2, Canada
| | - Marine Theret
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Wilder Scott
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Lesley Hill
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Tully Michael Underhill
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada; Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Boris Hinz
- Laboratory of Tissue Repair and Regeneration, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A1, Canada
| | - Fabio M V Rossi
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada; Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada.
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24
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An update on the pathogenic role of IL-6 in rheumatic diseases. Cytokine 2021; 146:155645. [PMID: 34303949 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2021.155645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Revised: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Interleukin (IL)-6 is a pleiotropic cytokine that is involved in the pathogenesis of various rheumatic diseases. Direct inhibition of the IL-6 pathway by an anti-IL-6 receptor or inhibiting the ligand itself has proved to be efficacious in the treatment of these diseases. Juvenile idiopathic arthritis, adult-onset Still's disease, large vessel vasculitis including giant cell arteritis and Takayasu disease, systemic sclerosis, and polymyalgia rheumatica respond well to IL-6 inhibition as expected. However, no clinically meaningful effect has been observed with regard to IL-6 blockade in ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis, and systemic lupus erythematosus. This review discusses the current state of IL-6 targeting approaches in various rheumatic diseases other than rheumatoid arthritis.
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25
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Romano E, Rosa I, Fioretto BS, Matucci-Cerinic M, Manetti M. New Insights into Profibrotic Myofibroblast Formation in Systemic Sclerosis: When the Vascular Wall Becomes the Enemy. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:610. [PMID: 34202703 PMCID: PMC8307837 DOI: 10.3390/life11070610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Revised: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
In systemic sclerosis (SSc), abnormalities in microvessel morphology occur early and evolve into a distinctive vasculopathy that relentlessly advances in parallel with the development of tissue fibrosis orchestrated by myofibroblasts in nearly all affected organs. Our knowledge of the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying such a unique relationship between SSc-related vasculopathy and fibrosis has profoundly changed over the last few years. Indeed, increasing evidence has suggested that endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndoMT), a process in which profibrotic myofibroblasts originate from endothelial cells, may take center stage in SSc pathogenesis. While in arterioles and small arteries EndoMT may lead to the accumulation of myofibroblasts within the vessel wall and development of fibroproliferative vascular lesions, in capillary vessels it may instead result in vascular destruction and formation of myofibroblasts that migrate into the perivascular space with consequent tissue fibrosis and microvessel rarefaction, which are hallmarks of SSc. Besides endothelial cells, other vascular wall-resident cells, such as pericytes and vascular smooth muscle cells, may acquire a myofibroblast-like synthetic phenotype contributing to both SSc-related vascular dysfunction and fibrosis. A deeper understanding of the mechanisms underlying the differentiation of myofibroblasts inside the vessel wall provides the rationale for novel targeted therapeutic strategies for the treatment of SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eloisa Romano
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy; (E.R.); (B.S.F.); (M.M.-C.)
| | - Irene Rosa
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Anatomy and Histology, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy;
| | - Bianca Saveria Fioretto
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy; (E.R.); (B.S.F.); (M.M.-C.)
| | - Marco Matucci-Cerinic
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy; (E.R.); (B.S.F.); (M.M.-C.)
| | - Mirko Manetti
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Anatomy and Histology, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy;
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26
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Siegert E, Uruha A, Goebel HH, Preuße C, Casteleyn V, Kleefeld F, Alten R, Burmester GR, Schneider U, Höppner J, Hahn K, Dittmayer C, Stenzel W. Systemic sclerosis-associated myositis features minimal inflammation and characteristic capillary pathology. Acta Neuropathol 2021; 141:917-927. [PMID: 33864496 PMCID: PMC8113184 DOI: 10.1007/s00401-021-02305-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2021] [Revised: 03/27/2021] [Accepted: 03/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis represents a chronic connective tissue disease featuring fibrosis, vasculopathy and autoimmunity, affecting skin, multiple internal organs, and skeletal muscles. The vasculopathy is considered obliterative, but its pathogenesis is still poorly understood. This may partially be due to limitations of conventional transmission electron microscopy previously being conducted only in single patients. The aim of our study was therefore to precisely characterize immune inflammatory features and capillary morphology of systemic sclerosis patients suffering from muscle weakness. In this study, we identified 18 individuals who underwent muscle biopsy because of muscle weakness and myalgia in a cohort of 367 systemic sclerosis patients. We performed detailed conventional and immunohistochemical analysis and large-scale electron microscopy by digitizing entire sections for in-depth ultrastructural analysis. Muscle biopsies of 12 of these 18 patients (67%) presented minimal features of myositis but clear capillary alteration, which we termed minimal myositis with capillary pathology (MMCP). Our study provides novel findings in systemic sclerosis-associated myositis. First, we identified a characteristic and specific morphological pattern termed MMCP in 67% of the cases, while the other 33% feature alterations characteristic of other overlap syndromes. This is also reflected by a relatively homogeneous clinical picture among MMCP patients. They have milder disease with little muscle weakness and a low prevalence of interstitial lung disease (20%) and diffuse skin involvement (10%) and no cases of either pulmonary arterial hypertension or renal crisis. Second, large-scale electron microscopy, introducing a new level of precision in ultrastructural analysis, revealed a characteristic capillary morphology with basement membrane thickening and reduplications, endothelial activation and pericyte proliferation. We provide open-access pan-and-zoom analysis to our datasets, enabling critical discussion and data mining. We clearly highlight characteristic capillary pathology in skeletal muscles of systemic sclerosis patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elise Siegert
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany
- Berlin Institute of Health, Anna-Louisa-Karsch-Str. 2, 10178, Berlin, Germany
| | - Akinori Uruha
- Department of Neuropathology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Hans-Hilmar Goebel
- Department of Neuropathology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Corinna Preuße
- Department of Neuropathology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Vincent Casteleyn
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Felix Kleefeld
- Department of Neurology and Experimental Neurology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Rieke Alten
- Schlosspark-Klinik, Heubnerweg 2, 14059, Berlin, Germany
| | - Gerd R Burmester
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Udo Schneider
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jakob Höppner
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Kathrin Hahn
- Department of Neurology and Experimental Neurology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Carsten Dittmayer
- Department of Neuropathology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Werner Stenzel
- Department of Neuropathology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany.
- Leibniz ScienceCampus Chronic Inflammation, 10117, Berlin, Germany.
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27
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Goss G, Rognoni E, Salameti V, Watt FM. Distinct Fibroblast Lineages Give Rise to NG2+ Pericyte Populations in Mouse Skin Development and Repair. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:675080. [PMID: 34124060 PMCID: PMC8194079 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.675080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
We have examined the developmental origins of Ng2+ perivascular cell populations that adhere to the basement membrane of blood vessels, and their contribution to wound healing. Neural/glial antigen 2 (Ng2) labeled most perivascular cells (70-80%) in developing and adult mouse back skin, a higher proportion than expressed by other pericyte markers Tbx18, Nestin and Pdgfrβ. In adult mouse back skin Ng2+ perivascular cells could be categorized into 4 populations based on whether they expressed Pdgfrα and Pdgfrβ individually or in combination or were Pdgfr-negative. Lineage tracing demonstrated that although Ng2+ cells in embryonic and neonatal back skin contributed to multiple cell types they did not give rise to interfollicular fibroblasts within the dermis. Lineage tracing of distinct fibroblast populations during skin development showed that papillary fibroblasts (Lrig1+) gave rise to Ng2+ perivascular cells in the upper dermis, whilst Ng2+ perivascular cells in the lower dermis were primarily derived from reticular Dlk1+ fibroblasts. Following wounding of adult skin, Ng2+ dermal cells only give rise to Ng2+ blood vessel associated cells and did not contribute to other fibroblast lineages. The relative abundance of Ng2+ Pdgfrβ+ perivascular populations was comparable in wounded and non-wounded skin, indicating that perivascular heterogeneity was maintained during full thickness skin repair. In the wound bed Ng2+ perivascular populations were primarily derived from Lrig1+ papillary or Dlk1+ reticular fibroblast lineages, according to the location of the regenerating blood vessels. We conclude that Ng2+ perivascular cells represent a heterogeneous lineage restricted population that is primarily recruited from the papillary or reticular fibroblast lineages during tissue regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Fiona M. Watt
- Centre for Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, King’s College London, Guy’s Hospital, London, United Kingdom
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28
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Arif S, Attiogbe E, Moulin VJ. Granulation tissue myofibroblasts during normal and pathological skin healing: The interaction between their secretome and the microenvironment. Wound Repair Regen 2021; 29:563-572. [PMID: 33887793 DOI: 10.1111/wrr.12919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Revised: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
The first role that was proposed for the myofibroblasts located in skin granulation tissue was to contract the edges of the wound in order to reduce the surface to be repaired. This role, linked to the presence of alpha smooth muscle actin, was very quickly confirmed and is part of the definition of granulation tissue myofibroblasts. However, myofibroblasts are cells that also play a much more central role in wound healing. Indeed, it has been shown that these cells produce large quantities of matrix components, and that they stimulate angiogenesis and can recruit immune cells. These actions take place via the secretion of molecules into their environment or indirectly via the production of microvesicles containing pro-fibrotic and pro-angiogenic molecules. Pathologically, granulation tissue can develop into a hypertrophic scar that histologically looks like granulation tissue, but which can remain for months or even years. It has been hypothesized that the myofibroblasts in these tissues remained present instead of disappearing by apoptosis, causing the maintenance of granulation tissue rather than allowing its change into a mature scar. Understanding the roles of both pathological and healthy myofibroblasts in wound tissue is crucial in order to better intervene in the healing mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syrine Arif
- Centre de recherche en organogénèse expérimentale de l'Université Laval/LOEX, Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Emilie Attiogbe
- Centre de recherche en organogénèse expérimentale de l'Université Laval/LOEX, Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Véronique J Moulin
- Centre de recherche en organogénèse expérimentale de l'Université Laval/LOEX, Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada.,Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
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29
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De Pieri A, Korman BD, Jüngel A, Wuertz-Kozak K. Engineering Advanced In Vitro Models of Systemic Sclerosis for Drug Discovery and Development. Adv Biol (Weinh) 2021; 5:e2000168. [PMID: 33852183 PMCID: PMC8717409 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.202000168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a complex multisystem disease with the highest case-specific mortality among all autoimmune rheumatic diseases, yet without any available curative therapy. Therefore, the development of novel therapeutic antifibrotic strategies that effectively decrease skin and organ fibrosis is needed. Existing animal models are cost-intensive, laborious and do not recapitulate the full spectrum of the disease and thus commonly fail to predict human efficacy. Advanced in vitro models, which closely mimic critical aspects of the pathology, have emerged as valuable platforms to investigate novel pharmaceutical therapies for the treatment of SSc. This review focuses on recent advancements in the development of SSc in vitro models, sheds light onto biological (e.g., growth factors, cytokines, coculture systems), biochemical (e.g., hypoxia, reactive oxygen species) and biophysical (e.g., stiffness, topography, dimensionality) cues that have been utilized for the in vitro recapitulation of the SSc microenvironment, and highlights future perspectives for effective drug discovery and validation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea De Pieri
- Dr. A. De Pieri, Prof. K. Wuertz-Kozak, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), 106 Lomb Memorial Rd., Rochester, NY, 14623, USA
| | - Benjamin D Korman
- Prof. B. D. Korman, Department of Medicine, Division of Allergy, Immunology and Rheumatology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, 14623, USA
| | - Astrid Jüngel
- Prof. A. Jüngel, Center of Experimental Rheumatology, University Clinic of Rheumatology, Balgrist University Hospital, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, 8008, Switzerland
- Prof. A. Jüngel, Department of Physical Medicine and Rheumatology, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, Zurich, 8008, Switzerland
| | - Karin Wuertz-Kozak
- Dr. A. De Pieri, Prof. K. Wuertz-Kozak, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), 106 Lomb Memorial Rd., Rochester, NY, 14623, USA
- Prof. K. Wuertz-Kozak, Schön Clinic Munich Harlaching, Spine Center, Academic Teaching Hospital and Spine Research Institute of the Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg (Austria), Munich, 81547, Germany
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30
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Romano E, Rosa I, Fioretto BS, Cerinic MM, Manetti M. The Role of Pro-fibrotic Myofibroblasts in Systemic Sclerosis: from Origin to Therapeutic Targeting. Curr Mol Med 2021; 22:209-239. [PMID: 33823766 DOI: 10.2174/0929867328666210325102749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Revised: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc, scleroderma) is a complex connective tissue disorder characterized by multisystem clinical manifestations resulting from immune dysregulation/autoimmunity, vasculopathy and, most notably, progressive fibrosis of the skin and internal organs. In recent years, it has emerged that the main drivers of SSc-related tissue fibrosis are myofibroblasts, a type of mesenchymal cells with both the extracellular matrix-synthesizing features of fibroblasts and the cytoskeletal characteristics of contractile smooth muscle cells. The accumulation and persistent activation of pro-fibrotic myofibroblasts during SSc development and progression result into elevated mechanical stress and reduced matrix plasticity within the affected tissues and may be ascribed to a reduced susceptibility of these cells to pro-apoptotic stimuli, as well as their increased formation from tissue-resident fibroblasts or transition from different cell types. Given the crucial role of myofibroblasts in SSc pathogenesis, finding the way to inhibit myofibroblast differentiation and accumulation by targeting their formation, function and survival may represent an effective approach to hamper the fibrotic process or even halt or reverse established fibrosis. In this review, we discuss the role of myofibroblasts in SSc-related fibrosis, with a special focus on their cellular origin and the signaling pathways implicated in their formation and persistent activation. Furthermore, we provide an overview of potential therapeutic strategies targeting myofibroblasts that may be able to counteract fibrosis in this pathological condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eloisa Romano
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Florence, Florence. Italy
| | - Irene Rosa
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Florence, Florence. Italy
| | - Bianca Saveria Fioretto
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Florence, Florence. Italy
| | - Marco Matucci Cerinic
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Florence, Florence. Italy
| | - Mirko Manetti
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Anatomy and Histology, University of Florence, Florence. Italy
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31
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Leask A. The hard problem: Mechanotransduction perpetuates the myofibroblast phenotype in scleroderma fibrosis. Wound Repair Regen 2021; 29:582-587. [DOI: 10.1111/wrr.12889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2020] [Revised: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Leask
- College of Dentistry University of Saskatchewan Saskatoon Saskatchewan Canada
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32
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Desai K, Kale A, Angadi P, Datar U, Belaldavar C, Arany P. Role of programmed cell death 4 in myofibroblast differentiation in oral submucous fibrosis. J Oral Maxillofac Pathol 2021; 25:430-436. [PMID: 35281179 PMCID: PMC8859592 DOI: 10.4103/jomfp.jomfp_86_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Revised: 05/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
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33
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Bruijn LE, van den Akker BEWM, van Rhijn CM, Hamming JF, Lindeman JHN. Extreme Diversity of the Human Vascular Mesenchymal Cell Landscape. J Am Heart Assoc 2020; 9:e017094. [PMID: 33190596 PMCID: PMC7763765 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.120.017094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Background Human mesenchymal cells are culprit factors in vascular (patho)physiology and are hallmarked by phenotypic and functional heterogeneity. At present, they are subdivided by classic umbrella terms, such as "fibroblasts," "myofibroblasts," "smooth muscle cells," "fibrocytes," "mesangial cells," and "pericytes." However, a discriminative marker-based subclassification has to date not been established. Methods and Results As a first effort toward a classification scheme, a systematic literature search was performed to identify the most commonly used phenotypical and functional protein markers for characterizing and classifying vascular mesenchymal cell subpopulation(s). We next applied immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence to inventory the expression pattern of identified markers on human aorta specimens representing early, intermediate, and end stages of human atherosclerotic disease. Included markers comprise markers for mesenchymal lineage (vimentin, FSP-1 [fibroblast-specific protein-1]/S100A4, cluster of differentiation (CD) 90/thymocyte differentiation antigen 1, and FAP [fibroblast activation protein]), contractile/non-contractile phenotype (α-smooth muscle actin, smooth muscle myosin heavy chain, and nonmuscle myosin heavy chain), and auxiliary contractile markers (h1-Calponin, h-Caldesmon, Desmin, SM22α [smooth muscle protein 22α], non-muscle myosin heavy chain, smooth muscle myosin heavy chain, Smoothelin-B, α-Tropomyosin, and Telokin) or adhesion proteins (Paxillin and Vinculin). Vimentin classified as the most inclusive lineage marker. Subset markers did not separate along classic lines of smooth muscle cell, myofibroblast, or fibroblast, but showed clear temporal and spatial diversity. Strong indications were found for presence of stem cells/Endothelial-to-Mesenchymal cell Transition and fibrocytes in specific aspects of the human atherosclerotic process. Conclusions This systematic evaluation shows a highly diverse and dynamic landscape for the human vascular mesenchymal cell population that is not captured by the classic nomenclature. Our observations stress the need for a consensus multiparameter subclass designation along the lines of the cluster of differentiation classification for leucocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura E. Bruijn
- Division of Vascular SurgeryDepartment of SurgeryLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenthe Netherlands
| | | | - Connie M. van Rhijn
- Division of Vascular SurgeryDepartment of SurgeryLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenthe Netherlands
| | - Jaap F. Hamming
- Division of Vascular SurgeryDepartment of SurgeryLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenthe Netherlands
| | - Jan H. N. Lindeman
- Division of Vascular SurgeryDepartment of SurgeryLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenthe Netherlands
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Rosa I, Romano E, Fioretto BS, Manetti M. The contribution of mesenchymal transitions to the pathogenesis of systemic sclerosis. Eur J Rheumatol 2020; 7:S157-S164. [PMID: 31922472 PMCID: PMC7647682 DOI: 10.5152/eurjrheum.2019.19081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2019] [Accepted: 11/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a multifaceted connective tissue disease characterized by widespread vasculopathy and autoimmune reactions that evolve into progressive interstitial, perivascular, and vessel wall fibrosis that affects the skin and multiple internal organs. Such an uncontrolled fibrotic process gradually disrupts the physiologic architecture of the affected tissues and frequently leads to significant organ dysfunction, thus representing a major cause of death in SSc patients. The main fibrosis orchestrators in SSc are represented by chronically activated myofibroblasts, a peculiar population of mesenchymal cells combining the extracellular matrix-synthesizing features of fibroblasts with cytoskeletal characteristics of contractile smooth muscle cells. Multiple lines of evidence support the notion that profibrotic myofibroblasts may derive not only from the activation of tissue resident fibroblasts but also from a variety of additional cell types, including pericytes, epithelial cells, vascular endothelial cells and preadipocytes/adipocytes. Here we overview an emerging picture that espouses that several cell transitional processes may be novel essential contributors to the pool of profibrotic myofibroblasts in SSc, potentially representing new suitable targets for therapeutic purposes. An in-depth dissection of the multiple origins of myofibroblasts and the underlying molecular mechanisms may be crucial in the process of deciphering the cellular bases of fibrosis persistence and refractoriness to the treatment and, therefore, may help in developing more effective and personalized therapeutic opportunities for SSc patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Rosa
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Eloisa Romano
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Mirko Manetti
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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Huang M, Cai G, Baugh LM, Liu Z, Smith A, Watson M, Popovich D, Zhang T, Stawski LS, Trojanowska M, Georgakoudi I, Black LD, Pioli PA, Whitfield ML, Garlick J. Systemic Sclerosis Dermal Fibroblasts Induce Cutaneous Fibrosis Through Lysyl Oxidase-like 4: New Evidence From Three-Dimensional Skin-like Tissues. Arthritis Rheumatol 2020; 72:791-801. [PMID: 31705627 DOI: 10.1002/art.41163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2019] [Accepted: 11/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a clinically heterogeneous disease characterized by increased collagen accumulation and skin stiffness. Our previous work has demonstrated that transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) induces extracellular matrix (ECM) modifications through lysyl oxidase-like 4 (LOXL-4), a collagen crosslinking enzyme, in bioengineered human skin equivalents (HSEs) and self-assembled stromal tissues (SAS). We undertook this study to investigate cutaneous fibrosis and the role of LOXL-4 in SSc pathogenesis using HSEs and SAS. METHODS SSc-derived dermal fibroblasts (SScDFs; n = 8) and normal dermal fibroblasts (NDFs; n = 6) were incorporated into HSEs and SAS. These 3-dimensional skin-like microenvironments were used to study the effects of dysregulated LOXL-4 on ECM remodeling, fibroblast activation, and response to TGFβ stimulation. RESULTS SScDF-containing SAS showed increased stromal thickness, collagen deposition, and interleukin-6 secretion compared to NDF-containing SAS (P < 0.05). In HSE, SScDFs altered collagen as seen by a more mature and aligned fibrillar structure (P < 0.05). With SScDFs, enhanced stromal rigidity with increased collagen crosslinking (P < 0.05), up-regulation of LOXL4 expression (P < 0.01), and innate immune signaling genes were observed in both tissue models. Conversely, knockdown of LOXL4 suppressed rigidity, contraction, and α-smooth muscle actin expression in SScDFs in HSE, and TGFβ-induced ECM aggregation and collagen crosslinking in SAS. CONCLUSION A limitation to the development of effective therapeutics in SSc is the lack of in vitro human model systems that replicate human skin. Our findings demonstrate that SAS and HSE can serve as complementary in vitro skin-like models for investigation of the mechanisms and mediators that drive fibrosis in SSc and implicate a pivotal role for LOXL-4 in SSc pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengqi Huang
- Tufts University School of Dental Medicine and Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, and Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, New Hampshire
| | - Guoshuai Cai
- Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, New Hampshire, and University of South Carolina Arnold School of Public Health, Columbia
| | | | - Zhiyi Liu
- Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts, and Zhejiang University College of Optical Science and Engineering, Hangzhou, China
| | - Avi Smith
- Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | - Dillon Popovich
- Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, New Hampshire
| | - Tianyue Zhang
- Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | | | | | - Lauren D Black
- Tufts University School of Medicine Sackler School for Graduate Biomedical Sciences, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | | | - Jonathan Garlick
- Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
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Vadasz Z, Balbir Gurman A, Meroni P, Farge D, Levi Y, Ingegnoli F, Braun-Moscovici Y, Rosner I, Slobodin G, Rozenbaum M, Jiries N, Kaly L, Boulman N, Zilber K, Ginsberg S, Awisat A, Goldberg Y, Lurie M, Ghigna MR, Guignabert C, Humbert M, Rimar D. Lysyl oxidase-a possible role in systemic sclerosis-associated pulmonary hypertension: a multicentre study. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2020; 58:1547-1555. [PMID: 30770717 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/kez035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2018] [Accepted: 01/09/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Lysyl oxidase (LOX) is an extracellular enzyme that cross-links collagen fibrils. LOX was found to be increased in serum of SSc patients and was suggested to be related to skin fibrosis, yet a vascular source of LOX has been demonstrated in idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension (iPAH). We aimed to validate elevated LOX serum levels in SSc and to study its correlation with clinical characteristics and investigate its main source at the tissue level. METHODS A total of 86 established SSc patients were compared with 86 patients with very early diagnosis of systemic sclerosis (VEDOSS), 110 patients with primary RP (PRP) and 80 healthy controls. LOX serum levels were determined by ELISA. Five lung and 12 skin biopsies from SSc patients were stained for LOX and compared with controls. RESULTS Serum levels of LOX in SSc were significantly higher than in VEDOSS, PRP and healthy controls (P < 0.001). LOX inversely correlated with the diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide diffusing capacity (DLCO) in diffuse SSc (r = -0.376, P = 0.02). Patients with moderate to severe estimated systolic PAH had higher LOX levels (P < 0.01). Lung biopsies demonstrated intense LOX staining in SSc patients with PAH that was predominantly located in the endothelium of the remodelled pulmonary vessels. CONCLUSION Serum LOX levels are increased in established SSc and inversely correlate with the DLCO. LOX is elevated in patients with moderate to severe PAH and is located in the proliferating endothelium in lung arterioles, suggesting a possible role for LOX in SSc-associated PAH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahava Vadasz
- Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Bnai-Zion Medical Center, Haifa, Israel
| | | | - Pierluigi Meroni
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Division of Rheumatology, Milan, Italy
| | - Dominique Farge
- Internal Medicine, St-Louis Hospital, AP-HP, CRMR for Rare Systemic Autoimmune Diseases, Paris, France.,Internal Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Québec, Canada
| | - Yair Levi
- Department of Medicine E, Meir Medical Center, Kfar-Saba, Israel
| | - Francesca Ingegnoli
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Division of Rheumatology, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Itzhak Rosner
- Rheumatology Unit, Bnai-Zion Medical Center, Haifa, Israel
| | - Gleb Slobodin
- Rheumatology Unit, Bnai-Zion Medical Center, Haifa, Israel
| | | | - Nizar Jiries
- Rheumatology Unit, Bnai-Zion Medical Center, Haifa, Israel
| | - Lisa Kaly
- Rheumatology Unit, Bnai-Zion Medical Center, Haifa, Israel
| | - Nina Boulman
- Rheumatology Unit, Bnai-Zion Medical Center, Haifa, Israel
| | - Karina Zilber
- Rheumatology Unit, Bnai-Zion Medical Center, Haifa, Israel
| | - Shira Ginsberg
- Rheumatology Unit, Bnai-Zion Medical Center, Haifa, Israel
| | - Abid Awisat
- Rheumatology Unit, Bnai-Zion Medical Center, Haifa, Israel
| | - Yair Goldberg
- Department of Statistics, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Michael Lurie
- Pathology Department, Bnai-Zion Medical Center, Haifa, Israel
| | - Maria-Rosa Ghigna
- Pathology Department, Hôpital Marie Lannelongue, Le Plessis-Robinson, France.,INSERM UMR_S 999, Le Plessis-Robinson, France.,Faculté de Médecine, Université Paris-Sud and Université Paris-Saclay, Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Christophe Guignabert
- INSERM UMR_S 999, Le Plessis-Robinson, France.,Faculté de Médecine, Université Paris-Sud and Université Paris-Saclay, Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Marc Humbert
- INSERM UMR_S 999, Le Plessis-Robinson, France.,Faculté de Médecine, Université Paris-Sud and Université Paris-Saclay, Kremlin-Bicêtre, France.,AP-HP Hôpital Bicêtre, Service de Pneumologie, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Doron Rimar
- Rheumatology Unit, Bnai-Zion Medical Center, Haifa, Israel
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Nihtyanova SI, Denton CP. Pathogenesis of systemic sclerosis associated interstitial lung disease. JOURNAL OF SCLERODERMA AND RELATED DISORDERS 2020; 5:6-16. [PMID: 35382227 PMCID: PMC8922569 DOI: 10.1177/2397198320903867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2019] [Accepted: 12/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis is an autoimmune disease leading to vasculopathy and fibrosis
of skin and internal organs. Despite likely shared pathogenic mechanisms, the
patterns of skin and lung fibrosis differ. Pathogenesis of interstitial lung
disease, a major cause of death in systemic sclerosis, reflects the intrinsic
disease pathobiology and is associated with distinct clinical phenotypes and
laboratory characteristics. The commonest histological pattern of systemic
sclerosis–interstitial lung disease is non-specific interstitial pneumonia.
Systemic sclerosis–interstitial lung disease pathogenesis involves multiple
components, including susceptibility and triggering factors, which could be
genetic or environmental. The process is amplified likely through ongoing
inflammation and the link between inflammatory activity and fibrosis with IL6
emerging as a key mediator. The disease is driven by epithelial injury,
reflected by markers in the serum, such as surfactant proteins and KL-6. In
addition, mediators that are produced by epithelial cells and that regulate
inflammatory cell trafficking may be important, especially CCL2. Other factors,
such as CXCL4 and CCL18, point towards immune-mediated damage or injury
response. Monocytes and alternatively activated macrophages appear to be
important. Transforming growth factor beta appears central to pathogenesis and
regulates epithelial repair and fibroblast activation. Understanding
pathogenesis may help to unravel the stages of systemic sclerosis–interstitial
lung disease, risks of progression and determinants of outcome. With this
article, we set out to review the multiple factors, including genetic,
environmental, cellular and molecular, that may be involved in the pathogenesis
of systemic sclerosis–interstitial lung disease and the mechanisms leading to
sustained fibrosis. We propose a model for the pathogenesis of systemic
sclerosis–interstitial lung disease, based on the available literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Svetlana I Nihtyanova
- Centre for Rheumatology and Connective Tissue Diseases, University College London, London, UK
| | - Christopher P Denton
- Centre for Rheumatology and Connective Tissue Diseases, University College London, London, UK
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Hashimoto A, Karim MR, Kuramochi M, Izawa T, Kuwamura M, Yamate J. Characterization of Macrophages and Myofibroblasts Appearing in Dibutyltin Dichloride-Induced Rat Pancreatic Fibrosis. Toxicol Pathol 2020; 48:509-523. [PMID: 31896309 DOI: 10.1177/0192623319893310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Macrophages and myofibroblasts are important in fibrogenesis. The cellular characteristics in pancreatic fibrosis remain to be investigated. Pancreatic fibrosis was induced in F344 rats by a single intravenous injection of dibutyltin dichloride. Histopathologically, the induced pancreatic fibrosis was divided into 3 grades (1+, 2+, and 3+), based on collagen deposition. Immunohistochemically, CD68-expressing M1 macrophages increased with grade and CD163-expressing M2 macrophages also increased later than M1 macrophage appearance. Double immunofluorescence showed that there were macrophages coexpressing CD68 and CD163, suggesting a possible shift from M1 to M2 types; similarly, increased major histocompatibility complex class II- and CD204-expressing macrophages were polarized toward M1 and M2 types, respectively. These findings indicated the participation of M1- and M2-polarized macrophages. Mesenchymal cells staining positive for vimentin, desmin, and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) increased with grade. There were mesenchymal cells coexpressing vimentin/α-SMA, desmin/α-SMA, and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP)/α-SMA; Thy-1-expressing immature mesenchymal cells also increased in fibrotic lesions. Because α-SMA expression is a reliable marker for myofibroblasts, α-SMA-expressing pancreatic myofibroblasts might be originated from GFAP-expressing pancreatic stellate cells or Thy-1-expressing immature mesenchymal cells; the myofibroblasts could simultaneously express cytoskeletal proteins such as vimentin and desmin. The present findings would provide useful information for analyses based on features of macrophages and myofibroblasts in chemically induced pancreatic fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ai Hashimoto
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Osaka Prefecture University, Izumisano City, Osaka, Japan
| | - Mohammad Rabiul Karim
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Osaka Prefecture University, Izumisano City, Osaka, Japan
| | - Mizuki Kuramochi
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Osaka Prefecture University, Izumisano City, Osaka, Japan
| | - Takeshi Izawa
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Osaka Prefecture University, Izumisano City, Osaka, Japan
| | - Mitsuru Kuwamura
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Osaka Prefecture University, Izumisano City, Osaka, Japan
| | - Jyoji Yamate
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Osaka Prefecture University, Izumisano City, Osaka, Japan
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Hinz B, Lagares D. Evasion of apoptosis by myofibroblasts: a hallmark of fibrotic diseases. Nat Rev Rheumatol 2020; 16:11-31. [PMID: 31792399 PMCID: PMC7913072 DOI: 10.1038/s41584-019-0324-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 321] [Impact Index Per Article: 80.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Organ fibrosis is a lethal outcome of autoimmune rheumatic diseases such as systemic sclerosis. Myofibroblasts are scar-forming cells that are ultimately responsible for the excessive synthesis, deposition and remodelling of extracellular matrix proteins in fibrosis. Advances have been made in our understanding of the mechanisms that keep myofibroblasts in an activated state and control myofibroblast functions. However, the mechanisms that help myofibroblasts to persist in fibrotic tissues remain poorly understood. Myofibroblasts evade apoptosis by activating molecular mechanisms in response to pro-survival biomechanical and growth factor signals from the fibrotic microenvironment, which can ultimately lead to the acquisition of a senescent phenotype. Growing evidence suggests that myofibroblasts and senescent myofibroblasts, rather than being resistant to apoptosis, are actually primed for apoptosis owing to concomitant activation of cell death signalling pathways; these cells are poised to apoptose when survival pathways are inhibited. This knowledge of apoptotic priming has paved the way for new therapies that trigger apoptosis in myofibroblasts by blocking pro-survival mechanisms, target senescent myofibroblast for apoptosis or promote the reprogramming of myofibroblasts into scar-resolving cells. These novel strategies are not only poised to prevent progressive tissue scarring, but also have the potential to reverse established fibrosis and to regenerate chronically injured tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boris Hinz
- Laboratory of Tissue Repair and Regeneration, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - David Lagares
- Center for Immunology and Inflammatory Diseases, Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Immunology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
- Fibrosis Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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Ota Y, Kuwana M. Endothelial cells and endothelial progenitor cells in the pathogenesis of systemic sclerosis. Eur J Rheumatol 2019; 7:S139-S146. [PMID: 31922471 DOI: 10.5152/eurjrheum.2019.19158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2019] [Accepted: 11/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a connective tissue disease characterized by excessive fibrosis, microvasculopathy, and autoimmunity. Endothelial cell (EC) injury and subsequent endothelial cell dysfunction is believed to be an initial event that eventually leads to a vicious pathogenic cycle. This process is further enhanced by defective angiogenesis and vasculogenesis, as the vascular repair machinery does not work properly. Endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) are functionally and quantitatively insufficient to recover the endothelium in SSc patients. The dysfunctional ECs and EPCs not only trigger the formation of typical vascular lesions, such as progressive intimal fibrosis in small arteries and the loss of capillaries, but also promote a series of inflammatory and profibrotic processes, such as endothelial-mesenchymal transition and recruitment and accumulation of monocytic EPCs with profibrotic properties. These processes together contribute to the accumulation of extracellular matrix in the affected tissue. This review features current insights into the roles of ECs and EPCs in the pathogenesis of SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuko Ota
- Department of Allergy and Rheumatology, Nippon Medical School Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masataka Kuwana
- Department of Allergy and Rheumatology, Nippon Medical School Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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Exosomes in Systemic Sclerosis: Messengers Between Immune, Vascular and Fibrotic Components? Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20184337. [PMID: 31487964 PMCID: PMC6770454 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20184337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2019] [Revised: 08/18/2019] [Accepted: 09/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare autoimmune disease, characterized by vasculopathy and fibrosis of the skin and internal organs. This disease is still considered incurable and is associated with a high risk of mortality, which is related to fibrotic events. An early diagnosis is useful for preventing complications, and targeted therapies reduce disease progression and ameliorate patients’ quality of life. Nevertheless, there are no validated biomarkers for early diagnosis with predictive prognostic value. Exosomes are membrane vesicles, transporting proteins and nucleic acids that may be delivered to target cells, which influences cellular behavior. They play important roles in cell–cell communication, both in physiological and pathological conditions, and may be useful as circulating biomarkers. Recent evidences suggest a role for these microvesicles in the three main aspects related to the pathogenesis of SSc (immunity, vascular damage, and fibrosis). Moreover, exosomes are of particular interest in the field of nano-delivery and are used as biological carriers. In this review, we report the latest information concerning SSc pathogenesis, clinical aspects of SSc, and current approaches to the treatment of SSc. Furthermore, we indicate a possible role of exosomes in SSc pathogenesis and suggest their potential use as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers, as well as therapeutic tools.
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[Updates in systemic sclerosis pathogenesis: Toward new therapeutic opportunities]. Rev Med Interne 2019; 40:654-663. [PMID: 31301944 DOI: 10.1016/j.revmed.2019.05.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2018] [Revised: 04/04/2019] [Accepted: 05/30/2019] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis is a rare connective tissue disease characterized by skin and several internal organ fibrosis, systemic vasculopathy and immune abnormalities. Even if fibroblasts and endothelial cells dysfunction, as well as lymphocytes and other immune cells implication are now well described, the exact origin and chronology of the disease pathogenesis remain unclear. Oxidative stress, influenced by genetic and environmental factors, seems to play a key role. Indeed, it seems to be implicated in the early phases of fibrosis development, vasculopathy and in immune tolerance abnormalities shared by all patients, although disease expression is heterogeneous. To date, no curative treatment is available. Even if immunosuppressive treatment or drugs acting on vascular system are proposed for some patients, overall, treatment efficiency remains modest. Only autologous hematopoietic stem cells transplantation, reserved for patients with severe or rapidly progressive fibrosis, has recently demonstrated efficiency, with lasting regression of fibrosis. Nevertheless, this treatment can expose to important, life-threatening toxicity. In the last decade, new mechanisms implicated in the pathogenesis of systemic sclerosis have been unraveled, bringing new therapeutic opportunities. In this review, we offer to focus on recent insights in the knowledge of systemic sclerosis pathogenesis and its implication in current and future medical care.
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Corallo C, Cheleschi S, Cutolo M, Soldano S, Fioravanti A, Volpi N, Franci D, Nuti R, Giordano N. Antibodies against specific extractable nuclear antigens (ENAs) as diagnostic and prognostic tools and inducers of a profibrotic phenotype in cultured human skin fibroblasts: are they functional? Arthritis Res Ther 2019; 21:152. [PMID: 31234888 PMCID: PMC6592008 DOI: 10.1186/s13075-019-1931-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2019] [Accepted: 06/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The importance of systemic sclerosis (SSc) autoantibodies for diagnosis has become recognized by their incorporation into the 2013 ACR/EULAR classification criteria. Clear prognostic and phenotypic associations with cutaneous subtype and internal organ involvement have been also described. However, little is known about the potential of autoantibodies to exert a direct pathogenic role in SSc. The aim of the study is to assess the pathogenic capacity of anti-DNA-topoisomerase I (anti-Topo-I) and anti-centromeric protein B (anti-Cenp-B) autoantibodies to induce pro-fibrotic markers in dermal fibroblasts. METHODS Dermal fibroblasts were isolated from unaffected and affected skin samples of (n = 10) limited cutaneous SSc (LcSSc) patients, from affected skin samples of diffuse cutaneous (DcSSc) patients (n = 10) and from healthy subjects (n = 20). Fibroblasts were stimulated with anti-Topo-I, anti-Cenp-B IgGs, and control IgGs in ratios 1:100 and 1:200 for 24 h. Cells were also incubated with 10% SSc anti-Topo-I+ and anti-Cenp-B+ whole serum and with 10% control serum for 24 h. Viability was assessed by MTT test, while apoptosis was assessed by flow cytometry. Activation of pro-fibrotic genes ACTA2, COL1A1, and TAGLN was evaluated by quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR), while the respective protein levels alpha-smooth-muscle actin (α-SMA), type-I-collagen (Col-I), and transgelin (SM22) were assessed by immunocytochemistry (ICC). RESULTS MTT showed that anti-Cenp-B/anti-Topo-I IgGs and anti-Cenp-B+/anti-Topo-I+ sera reduced viability (in a dilution-dependent manner for IgGs) for all the fibroblast populations. Apoptosis is induced in unaffected LcSSc and control fibroblasts, while affected LcSSc/DcSSc fibroblasts showed apoptosis resistance. Basal mRNA (ACTA2, COL1A1, and TAGLN) and protein (α-SMA, Col-1, and SM22) levels were higher in affected LcSSc/DcSSc fibroblasts compared to LcSSc unaffected and to control ones. Stimulation with anti-Cenp-B/anti-Topo-I IgGs and with anti-Cenp-B+/anti-Topo-I+ sera showed a better induction in unaffected LcSSc and control fibroblasts. However, a statistically significant increase of all pro-fibrotic markers is reported also in affected LcSSc/DcSSc fibroblasts upon stimulation with both IgGs and sera. CONCLUSIONS This study suggests a pathogenic role of SSc-specific autoantibodies to directly induce pro-fibrotic activation in human dermal fibroblasts. Therefore, besides the diagnostic and prognostic use of those autoantibodies, these data might further justify the importance of immunosuppressive drugs in the early stages of the autoimmune disease, including SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio Corallo
- Scleroderma Unit, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Neurosciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Sara Cheleschi
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Neurosciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Maurizio Cutolo
- Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Stefano Soldano
- Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Antonella Fioravanti
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Neurosciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Nila Volpi
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Neurosciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Daniela Franci
- Scleroderma Unit, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Neurosciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Ranuccio Nuti
- Scleroderma Unit, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Neurosciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Nicola Giordano
- Scleroderma Unit, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Neurosciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
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Dermal White Adipose Tissue: A Newly Recognized Layer of Skin Innate Defense. J Invest Dermatol 2019; 139:1002-1009. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2018.12.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2018] [Revised: 11/27/2018] [Accepted: 12/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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Żółkiewicz J, Stochmal A, Rudnicka L. The role of adipokines in systemic sclerosis: a missing link? Arch Dermatol Res 2019; 311:251-263. [PMID: 30806766 PMCID: PMC6469644 DOI: 10.1007/s00403-019-01893-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2018] [Revised: 12/27/2018] [Accepted: 02/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis is a multiorgan autoimmune disease characterized by vasculopathy and tissue fibrosis of unknown etiology. Recently, adipokines (cell signaling proteins secreted by adipose tissue) have attracted much attention as a cytokine family contributing to the various pathological processes of systemic sclerosis. Adipokines, such as leptin, adiponectin, resistin, adipsin, visfatin or chemerin are a heterogenic group of molecules. Adiponectin exhibits anti-fibrotic features and affects inflammatory reactions. Leptin promotes fibrosis and inflammation. Resistin was linked to vascular involvement in systemic sclerosis. Visfatin was associated with regression of skin lesions in late-stage systemic sclerosis. Chemerin appears as a marker of increased risk of impaired renal function and development of skin sclerosis in the early stage of systemic sclerosis. Vaspin was indicated to have a protective role in digital ulcers development. Novel adipokines-adipsin, apelin, omentin and CTRP-3-are emerging as molecules potentially involved in SSc pathogenesis. Serum adipokine levels may be used as predictive and diagnostic factors in systemic sclerosis. However, further investigations are required to establish firm correlations between distinct adipokines and systemic sclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jakub Żółkiewicz
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Warsaw, Koszykowa 82A, 02-008, Warszawa, Poland
| | - Anna Stochmal
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Warsaw, Koszykowa 82A, 02-008, Warszawa, Poland
| | - Lidia Rudnicka
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Warsaw, Koszykowa 82A, 02-008, Warszawa, Poland.
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Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a connective tissue disease, the pathogenesis of which is thought to involve interleukin-6 (IL-6), an inflammatory cytokine. This is based on findings of its concentration in patient serum, the results of an IL-6 suppression experiment in an animal model, and the results of a pilot study using IL-6 receptor antibody. However, it appears that a number of factors are involved in the pathology of SSc depending on the state of disease progression. In addition, the degree of involvement of IL-6 differs depending on the difference of organs within particular severe symptoms. Based on the findings from measurements of patient serum, the influence of IL-6 on the pathogenesis of SSc is greater in patients at a relatively early phase of the disease and in patients with lung lesions. Interleukin-13 (IL-13) is one of pro-fibrotic factors, and it is afraid that SSc patients with higher IL-13 have already lost the influence of IL-6. Therefore, although a clinical trial using the anti-IL-6 receptor antibody tocilizumab is underway, it is important to recognize the state of SSc patients prior to selecting treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshihito Shima
- a Department of Thermo-therapeutics for vascular dysfunction, Clinical Immunology , Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine , Osaka , Japan
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47
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Magalon J, Velier M, Simoncini S, François P, Bertrand B, Daumas A, Benyamine A, Boissier R, Arnaud L, Lyonnet L, Fernandez S, Dignat-George F, Casanova D, Guillet B, Granel B, Paul P, Sabatier F. Molecular profile and proangiogenic activity of the adipose-derived stromal vascular fraction used as an autologous innovative medicinal product in patients with systemic sclerosis. Ann Rheum Dis 2019; 78:391-398. [PMID: 30612118 DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2018-214218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2018] [Revised: 10/31/2018] [Accepted: 11/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The autologous stromal vascular fraction (SVF) from adipose tissue is an alternative to cultured adipose-derived stem cells for use in regenerative medicine and represents a promising therapy for vasculopathy and hand disability in systemic sclerosis (SSc). However, the bioactivity of autologous SVF is not documented in this disease context. This study aimed to compare the molecular and functional profiles of the SVF-based medicinal product obtained from SSc and healthy subjects. METHODS Good manufacturing practice (GMP)-grade SVF from 24 patients with SSc and 12 healthy donors (HD) was analysed by flow cytometry to compare the distribution of the CD45- and CD45+ haematopoietic cell subsets. The ability of SVF to form a vascular network was assessed using Matrigel in vivo assay. The transcriptomic and secretory profiles of the SSc-SVF were assessed by RNA sequencing and multiplex analysis, respectively, and were compared with the HD-SVF. RESULTS The distribution of the leucocyte, endothelial, stromal, pericyte and transitional cell subsets was similar for SSc-SVF and HD-SVF. SSc-SVF retained its vasculogenic capacity, but the density of neovessels formed in SVF-loaded Matrigel implanted in nude mice was slightly decreased compared with HD-SVF. SSc-SVF displayed a differential molecular signature reflecting deregulation of angiogenesis, endothelial activation and fibrosis. CONCLUSIONS Our study provides the first evidence that SSc does not compromise the vascular repair capacity of SVF, supporting its use as an innovative autologous biotherapy. The characterisation of the specific SSc-SVF molecular profile provides new perspectives for delineating markers of the potency of SVF and its targets for the treatment of SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jérémy Magalon
- Cell Therapy Department, Hôpital de la Conception, AP-HM, INSERM CIC BT 1409, Marseille, France.,INSERM, INRA, C2VN, Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France
| | - Mélanie Velier
- Cell Therapy Department, Hôpital de la Conception, AP-HM, INSERM CIC BT 1409, Marseille, France.,INSERM, INRA, C2VN, Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France
| | | | - Pauline François
- Cell Therapy Department, Hôpital de la Conception, AP-HM, INSERM CIC BT 1409, Marseille, France.,INSERM, INRA, C2VN, Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France
| | - Baptiste Bertrand
- INSERM, INRA, C2VN, Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France.,Plastic Surgery Department, Hôpital de la Conception, AP-HM, Marseille, France
| | - Aurélie Daumas
- Internal Medicine Department, Hôpital Nord & Hôpital de la Timone, AP-HM, Marseille, France
| | - Audrey Benyamine
- INSERM, INRA, C2VN, Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France.,Internal Medicine Department, Hôpital Nord & Hôpital de la Timone, AP-HM, Marseille, France
| | - Romain Boissier
- INSERM, INRA, C2VN, Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France.,Urology Surgery Department, Hôpital de la Conception, AP-HM, Marseille, France
| | - Laurent Arnaud
- Vascular Biology Department, Hôpital de la Conception, AP-HM, Marseille, France
| | - Luc Lyonnet
- Vascular Biology Department, Hôpital de la Conception, AP-HM, Marseille, France
| | | | - Françoise Dignat-George
- INSERM, INRA, C2VN, Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France.,Vascular Biology Department, Hôpital de la Conception, AP-HM, Marseille, France
| | - Dominique Casanova
- Plastic Surgery Department, Hôpital de la Conception, AP-HM, Marseille, France
| | - Benjamin Guillet
- INSERM, INRA, C2VN, Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France.,CERIMED, Aix-Marseille University, AP-HM, Marseille, France
| | - Brigitte Granel
- INSERM, INRA, C2VN, Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France.,Internal Medicine Department, Hôpital Nord & Hôpital de la Timone, AP-HM, Marseille, France
| | - Pascale Paul
- Cell Therapy Department, Hôpital de la Conception, AP-HM, INSERM CIC BT 1409, Marseille, France.,INSERM, INRA, C2VN, Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France
| | - Florence Sabatier
- Cell Therapy Department, Hôpital de la Conception, AP-HM, INSERM CIC BT 1409, Marseille, France .,INSERM, INRA, C2VN, Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France
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Ribatti D, Tamma R. Giulio Gabbiani and the discovery of myofibroblasts. Inflamm Res 2019; 68:241-245. [PMID: 30610292 DOI: 10.1007/s00011-018-01211-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2018] [Revised: 12/29/2018] [Accepted: 12/31/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Myofibroblasts, specialized fibroblasts expressing the protein alpha-smooth muscle actin, are instrumental in wound contraction during normal wound healing. Tissue shortening is then stabilized by the synthesis of extracellular matrix, collagen in particular. Alpha-smooth muscle actin within myofibroblasts becomes organized in filamentous bundles, called stress fibers, that allow the retractile movement producing wound contraction. During hypertrophic scarring, skin deformations depend on the inappropriate action of these stress fibers that for unknown reasons persist even after the epithelialization of the wound. This historical review article is dedicated to the reconstruction of the discovery of this cell by the Italian scientist Giulio Gabbiani.
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Affiliation(s)
- Domenico Ribatti
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences and Sensory Organs, University of Bari Medical School, Policlinico-Piazza G. Cesare, 11, 70124, Bari, Italy.
| | - Roberto Tamma
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences and Sensory Organs, University of Bari Medical School, Policlinico-Piazza G. Cesare, 11, 70124, Bari, Italy
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Wadhwan V, Venkatesh A, Reddy V, Malik S. The role of myofibroblasts in the progression of oral submucous fibrosis: A systematic review. J Oral Maxillofac Pathol 2019; 23:257-266. [PMID: 31516233 PMCID: PMC6714277 DOI: 10.4103/jomfp.jomfp_238_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Oral Submucous Fibrosis (OSMF) is a chronic progressive scarring oral disease predominantly affecting people of South Asian origin. It is characterized by juxtaepithelial inflammatory cell infiltration followed by fibrosis in the lamina propria and submucosa of the oral mucosa. The pathogenesis of the disease is not well established and a number of mechanisms have been proposed regarding the pathogenesis. A renewed interest has been shown in myofibrobasts which have been implicated to play a significant role in the pathogenesis of OSMF. The myofibroblast were initially identified by means of electron microscopy in granulation tissue of healing wounds as a modulated fibroblast exhibiting features of smooth muscle cells, with prominent bundles of microfilaments, dense bodies scattered in between, and gap junctions. The presence of myofibroblasts has successively been described in practically all fibrotic situations characterized by tissue retraction and remodeling. This review paper is an attempt to identify all the studies involving myofibroblasts and explaining the pathogenesis in a simplified manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vijay Wadhwan
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology and Oral Microbiology, Subharti Dental College, Swami Vivekanand Subharti University, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Arvind Venkatesh
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology and Oral Microbiology, Smile Square Multispecialty Dental Centre, Karur, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Vandana Reddy
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology and Oral Microbiology, Subharti Dental College, Swami Vivekanand Subharti University, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Sangeeta Malik
- Department of Oral Medicine and Radiology, Subharti Dental College, Swami Vivekanand Subharti University, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, India
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50
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van Caam A, Vonk M, van den Hoogen F, van Lent P, van der Kraan P. Unraveling SSc Pathophysiology; The Myofibroblast. Front Immunol 2018; 9:2452. [PMID: 30483246 PMCID: PMC6242950 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.02452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2018] [Accepted: 10/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a severe auto-immune disease, characterized by vasculopathy and fibrosis of connective tissues. SSc has a high morbidity and mortality and unfortunately no disease modifying therapy is currently available. A key cell in the pathophysiology of SSc is the myofibroblast. Myofibroblasts are fibroblasts with contractile properties that produce a large amount of pro-fibrotic extracellular matrix molecules such as collagen type I. In this narrative review we will discuss the presence, formation, and role of myofibroblasts in SSc, and how these processes are stimulated and mediated by cells of the (innate) immune system such as mast cells and T helper 2 lymphocytes. Furthermore, current novel therapeutic approaches to target myofibroblasts will be highlighted for future perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arjan van Caam
- Experimental Rheumatology, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Madelon Vonk
- Department of Rheumatology, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | | | - Peter van Lent
- Experimental Rheumatology, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, Netherlands
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