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Chang HM, Bai L, Zhu YM, Leung PCK. Connective tissue growth factor mediates bone morphogenetic protein 2-induced increase in hyaluronan production in luteinized human granulosa cells. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2022; 20:65. [PMID: 35395768 PMCID: PMC8991488 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-022-00937-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hyaluronan is the main component of the cumulus-oocyte complex (COC) matrix, and it maintains the basic structure of the COC during ovulation. As a member of the transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) superfamily, bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2) has been identified as a critical regulator of mammalian folliculogenesis and ovulation. However, whether BMP2 can regulate the production of hyaluronan in human granulosa cells has never been elucidated. METHODS In the present study, we investigated the effect of BMP2 on the production of hyaluronan and the underlying molecular mechanism using both immortalized (SVOG) and primary human granulosa-lutein (hGL) cells. The expression of three hyaluronan synthases (including HAS1, HAS2 and HAS3) were examined following cell incubation with BMP2 at different concentrations. The concentrations of the hyaluronan cell culture medium were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The TGF-β type I receptor inhibitors (dorsomorphin and DMH-1) and small interfering RNAs targeting ALK2, ALK3, ALK6 and SMAD4 were used to investigate the involvement of TGF-β type I receptor and SMAD-dependent pathway. RESULTS Our results showed that BMP2 treatment significantly increased the production of hyaluronan by upregulating the expression of hyaluronan synthase 2 (HAS2). In addition, BMP2 upregulates the expression of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), which subsequently mediates the BMP2-induced increases in HAS2 expression and hyaluronan production because overexpression of CTGF enhances, whereas knockdown of CTGF reverses, these effects. Notably, using kinase inhibitor- and siRNA-mediated knockdown approaches, we demonstrated that the inductive effect of BMP2 on the upregulation of CTGF is mediated by the ALK2/ALK3-mediated SMAD-dependent signaling pathway. CONCLUSIONS Our findings provide new insight into the molecular mechanism by which BMP2 promotes the production of hyaluronan in human granulosa cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsun-Ming Chang
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310006, Zhejiang, China
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of British Columbia, and BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, Room 317, 950 West 28th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4H4, Canada
| | - Long Bai
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310006, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of British Columbia, and BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, Room 317, 950 West 28th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4H4, Canada
| | - Yi-Min Zhu
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310006, Zhejiang, China.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of British Columbia, and BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, Room 317, 950 West 28th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4H4, Canada.
| | - Peter C K Leung
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310006, Zhejiang, China.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of British Columbia, and BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, Room 317, 950 West 28th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4H4, Canada.
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Tissue distribution and transcriptional regulation of CCN5 in the heart after myocardial infarction. J Cell Commun Signal 2021; 16:377-395. [PMID: 34854055 PMCID: PMC9411331 DOI: 10.1007/s12079-021-00659-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
CCN5 is a divergent member of the cellular communication network factor (CCN) family in that it lacks the carboxyl terminal cystine knot domain common to the other CCN family members. CCN5 has been reported to antagonize the profibrotic actions of CCN2 and to inhibit myocardial collagen deposition and fibrosis in chronic pressure overload of the heart. However, what mechanisms that regulate CCN5 activity in the heart remain unknown. Recombinant, replication defective adenovirus encoding firefly luciferase under control of the human CCN5 promoter was prepared and used to investigate what mechanisms regulate CCN5 transcription in relevant cells. Tissue distribution of CCN5 in hearts from healthy mice and from mice subjected to myocardial infarction was investigated. Contrary to the profibrotic immediate early gene CCN2, we find that CCN5 is induced in the late proliferation and maturation phases of scar healing. CCN5 was identified principally in endothelial cells, fibroblasts, smooth muscle cells, and macrophages. Our data show that CCN5 gene transcription and protein levels are induced by catecholamines via β2-adrenergic receptors. Myocardial induction of CCN5 was further confirmed in isoproterenol-infused mice. We also find that CCN5 transcription is repressed by TNF-α, an inflammatory mediator highly elevated in early phases of wound healing following myocardial infarction. In conclusion, CCN5 predominates in endothelial cells, fibroblasts, and macrophages of the differentiating scar tissue and its transcription is conversely regulated by β2-adrenergic agonists and TNF-α.
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3
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Zaykov V, Chaqour B. The CCN2/CTGF interactome: an approach to understanding the versatility of CCN2/CTGF molecular activities. J Cell Commun Signal 2021; 15:567-580. [PMID: 34613590 DOI: 10.1007/s12079-021-00650-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Cellular communication network 2 (CCN2), also known as connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) regulates diverse cellular processes, some at odds with others, including adhesion, proliferation, apoptosis, and extracellular matrix (ECM) protein synthesis. Although a cause-and-effect relationship between CCN2/CTGF expression and local fibrotic reactions has initially been established, CCN2/CTGF manifests cell-, tissue-, and context-specific functions and differentially affects developmental and pathological processes ranging from progenitor cell fate decisions and angiogenesis to inflammation and tumorigenesis. CCN2/CTGF multimodular structure, binding to and activation or inhibition of multiple cell surface receptors, growth factors and ECM proteins, and susceptibility for proteolytic cleavage highlight the complexity to CCN2/CTGF biochemical attributes. CCN2/CTGF expression and dosage in the local environment affects a defined community of its interacting partners, and this results in sequestration of growth factors, interference with or potentiation of ligand-receptor binding, cellular internalization of CCN2/CTGF, inhibition or activation of proteases, and generation of CCN2/CTGF degradome products that add molecular diversity and expand the repertoire of functional modules in the cells and their microenvironment. Through these interactions, different intracellular signals and cellular responses are elicited culminating into physiological or pathological reactions. Thus, the CCN2/CTGF interactome is a defining factor of its tissue- and context-specific effects. Mapping of new CCN2/CTGF binding partners might shed light on yet unknown roles of CCN2/CTGF and provide a solid basis for tissue-specific targeting this molecule or its interacting partners in a therapeutic context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viktor Zaykov
- Department of Cell Biology, State University of New York (SUNY), Downstate Health Science University, 450 Clarkson Avenue, MSC 5, Brooklyn, NY, 11203, USA
| | - Brahim Chaqour
- Department of Cell Biology, State University of New York (SUNY), Downstate Health Science University, 450 Clarkson Avenue, MSC 5, Brooklyn, NY, 11203, USA. .,Department of Ophthalmology, State University of New York (SUNY), Downstate Health Science University, 450 Clarkson Avenue, MSC 5, Brooklyn, NY, 11203, USA.
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4
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Li HL, Li QY, Jin MJ, Lu CF, Mu ZY, Xu WY, Song J, Zhang Y, Zhang SY. A review: hippo signaling pathway promotes tumor invasion and metastasis by regulating target gene expression. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2021; 147:1569-1585. [PMID: 33864521 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-021-03604-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Hippo pathway is widely considered to inhibit cell growth and play an important role in regulating the size of organs. However, recent studies have shown that abnormal regulation of the Hippo pathway can also affect tumor invasion and metastasis. Therefore, finding out how the Hippo pathway promotes tumor development by regulating the expression of target genes provides new ideas for future research on targeted drugs that inhibit tumor progression. METHODS PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library were systematically searched. RESULTS The search strategy identified 1892 hits and 196 publications were finally included in this review. As the core molecule of the Hippo pathway, YAP/TAZ are usually highly expressed in tumors that undergo invasion and migration and are accompanied by abnormally strong nuclear metastasis. Through its interaction with nuclear transcription factors TEADs, it directly or indirectly regulates and the expressions of target genes related to tumor metastasis and invasion. These target genes can induce the formation of invasive pseudopodia in tumor cells, reduce intercellular adhesion, degrade extracellular matrix (ECM), and cause epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), or indirectly promote through other signaling pathways, such as mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK), TGF/Smad, etc, which facilitate the invasion and metastasis of tumors. CONCLUSION This article mainly introduces the research progress of YAP/TAZ which are the core molecules of the Hippo pathway regulating related target genes to promote tumor invasion and metastasis. Focus on the target genes that affect tumor invasion and metastasis, providing the possibility for the selection of clinical drug treatment targets, to provide some help for a more in-depth study of tumor invasion and migration mechanism and the development of clinical drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Li Li
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Qian-Yu Li
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Min-Jie Jin
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Chao-Fan Lu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Zhao-Yang Mu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Wei-Yi Xu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Jian Song
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China. .,School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies (Ministry of Education), Zhengzhou University, Institute of Drug Discovery and Development, Zhengzhou, 450001, China.
| | - Yan Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China.
| | - Sai-Yang Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China. .,School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies (Ministry of Education), Zhengzhou University, Institute of Drug Discovery and Development, Zhengzhou, 450001, China. .,Zhengzhou University, Henan Institute of Advanced Technology, Zhengzhou, 450001, China.
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Induction of HO-1 by 5, 8-Dihydroxy-4',7-Dimethoxyflavone via Activation of ROS/p38 MAPK/Nrf2 Attenuates Thrombin-Induced Connective Tissue Growth Factor Expression in Human Cardiac Fibroblasts. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2020; 2020:1080168. [PMID: 33343802 PMCID: PMC7732388 DOI: 10.1155/2020/1080168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Revised: 11/11/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) has been shown to exert as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory enzyme in cardiovascular inflammatory diseases. Flavonoids have been demonstrated to display anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects through the induction of HO-1. 5,8-Dihydroxy-4',7-dimethoxyflavone (DDF), one of the flavonoid compounds, is isolated from Reevesia formosana. Whether DDF induced HO-1 expression on human cardiac fibroblasts (HCFs) remained unknown. Here, we found that DDF time- and concentration-dependently induced HO-1 protein and mRNA expression, which was attenuated by pretreatment with reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenger N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) in HCFs. DDF-enhanced ROS generation was attenuated by NAC, but not by either diphenyleneiodonium chloride (DPI, Nox inhibitor) or MitoTempol (mitochondrial ROS scavenger). Interestingly, pretreatment with glutathione (GSH) inhibited DDF-induced HO-1 expression. The ratio of GSH/GSSG was time-dependently decreased in DDF-treated HCFs. DDF-induced HO-1 expression was attenuated by an inhibitor of p38 MAPK (p38i VIII) or siRNA, but not by MEK1/2 (PD98059) or JNK1/2 (SP600125). DDF-stimulated p38 MAPK phosphorylation was inhibited by GSH or p38i VIII. Moreover, DDF-induced HO-1 expression was mediated through Nrf2 phosphorylation and translocation into the nucleus which was attenuated by NAC or p38 siRNA. DDF also stimulated antioxidant response element (ARE) promoter activity which was inhibited by NAC, GSH, or p38i VIII. Interaction between Nrf2 and the ARE-binding sites on the HO-1 promoter was revealed by chromatin immunoprecipitation assay, which was attenuated by NAC, GSH, or p38i VIII. We further evaluated the functional effect of HO-1 expression on the thrombin-induced fibrotic responses. Our result indicated that the induction of HO-1 by DDF can attenuate the thrombin-induced connective tissue growth factor expression. These results suggested that DDF-induced HO-1 expression is, at least, mediated through the activation of the ROS-dependent p38 MAPK/Nrf2 signaling pathway in HCFs. Thus, the upregulation of HO-1 by DDF could be a candidate for the treatment of heart fibrosis.
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Chen Z, Zhang N, Chu HY, Yu Y, Zhang ZK, Zhang G, Zhang BT. Connective Tissue Growth Factor: From Molecular Understandings to Drug Discovery. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:593269. [PMID: 33195264 PMCID: PMC7658337 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.593269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2020] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) is a key signaling and regulatory molecule involved in different biological processes, such as cell proliferation, angiogenesis, and wound healing, as well as multiple pathologies, such as tumor development and tissue fibrosis. Although the underlying mechanisms of CTGF remain incompletely understood, a commonly accepted theory is that the interactions between different protein domains in CTGF and other various regulatory proteins and ligands contribute to its variety of functions. Here, we highlight the structure of each domain of CTGF and its biology functions in physiological conditions. We further summarized main diseases that are deeply influenced by CTGF domains and the potential targets of these diseases. Finally, we address the advantages and disadvantages of current drugs targeting CTGF and provide the perspective for the drug discovery of the next generation of CTGF inhibitors based on aptamers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zihao Chen
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ning Zhang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Hang Yin Chu
- Law Sau Fai Institute for Advancing Translational Medicine in Bone and Joint Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yuanyuan Yu
- Law Sau Fai Institute for Advancing Translational Medicine in Bone and Joint Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Zong-Kang Zhang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ge Zhang
- Law Sau Fai Institute for Advancing Translational Medicine in Bone and Joint Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Bao-Ting Zhang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
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7
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Zhu Y, Almuntashiri S, Han Y, Wang X, R. Somanath P, Zhang D. The Roles of CCN1/CYR61 in Pulmonary Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21217810. [PMID: 33105556 PMCID: PMC7659478 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21217810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2020] [Revised: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
CCN1 (cysteine-rich 61, connective tissue growth factor, and nephroblastoma-1), previously named CYR61 (cysteine-rich angiogenic inducer 61) belongs to the CCN family of matricellular proteins. CCN1 plays critical roles in the regulation of proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, angiogenesis, and fibrosis. Recent studies have extensively characterized the important physiological and pathological roles of CCN1 in various tissues and organs. In this review, we summarize both basic and clinical aspects of CCN1 in pulmonary diseases, including acute lung injury (ALI), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), lung fibrosis, pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), lung infection, and lung cancer. We also emphasize the important challenges for future investigations to better understand the CCN1 and its role in physiology and pathology, as well as the questions that need to be addressed for the therapeutic development of CCN1 antagonists in various lung diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yin Zhu
- Clinical and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia and Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, Augusta, GA 30912, USA; (Y.Z.); (S.A.); (Y.H.); (P.R.S.)
| | - Sultan Almuntashiri
- Clinical and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia and Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, Augusta, GA 30912, USA; (Y.Z.); (S.A.); (Y.H.); (P.R.S.)
| | - Yohan Han
- Clinical and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia and Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, Augusta, GA 30912, USA; (Y.Z.); (S.A.); (Y.H.); (P.R.S.)
| | - Xiaoyun Wang
- Center for Vaccines and Immunology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA;
| | - Payaningal R. Somanath
- Clinical and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia and Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, Augusta, GA 30912, USA; (Y.Z.); (S.A.); (Y.H.); (P.R.S.)
- Department of Medicine, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Duo Zhang
- Clinical and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia and Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, Augusta, GA 30912, USA; (Y.Z.); (S.A.); (Y.H.); (P.R.S.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-706-721-6491; Fax: +1-706-721-3994
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8
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Liu S, Chang HM, Yi Y, Yao YQ, Leung PCK. SMAD-dependent signaling mediates morphogenetic protein 6-induced stimulation of connective tissue growth factor in luteinized human granulosa cells†. Biol Reprod 2020; 101:445-456. [PMID: 31210269 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2019] [Revised: 06/01/2019] [Accepted: 06/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Connective tissue growth factor (also known as CTGF or CCN2) is a secreted matricellular protein that belongs to the CCN family. With wide-ranging biological activities and tissue expression patterns, CTGF plays a critical role in regulating various cellular functions. In the female reproductive system, CTGF is highly expressed in granulosa cells in growing ovarian follicles and is involved in the regulation of follicular development, ovulation, and luteal function. In the mammalian ovary, bone morphogenetic protein 6 (BMP6) is an important intraovarian modulator of follicular development. In this study, we demonstrated that BMP6 treatment significantly increased the expression of CTGF in both primary and immortalized human granulosa cells. Using both pharmacological inhibitors and Small interfering RNA-mediated knockdown approaches, we showed that ALK2 and ALK3 type I receptors are required for BMP6-induced cellular activities. Furthermore, this effect is most likely mediated by a Sma- and Mad-related protein (SMAD)-dependent pathway. Our studies provide novel insight into the molecular mechanisms by which an intraovarian growth factor affects the production of another factor via a paracrine effect in human granulosa cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuang Liu
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, Air Force General Hospital, Beijing, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Hsun-Ming Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Yuyin Yi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Yuan-Qing Yao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, General Hospital of Chinese People's Liberation Army, Beijing, China
| | - Peter C K Leung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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9
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Kim S, Lim JH, Woo CH. Therapeutic potential of targeting kinase inhibition in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Yeungnam Univ J Med 2020; 37:269-276. [PMID: 32693446 PMCID: PMC7606966 DOI: 10.12701/yujm.2020.00458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis is characterized by excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix components. The fibrotic process ultimately leads to organ dysfunction and failure in chronic inflammatory and metabolic diseases such as pulmonary fibrosis, advanced kidney disease, and liver cirrhosis. Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a common form of progressive and chronic interstitial lung disease of unknown etiology. Pathophysiologically, the parenchyma of the lung alveoli, interstitium, and capillary endothelium becomes scarred and stiff, which makes breathing difficult because the lungs have to work harder to transfer oxygen and carbon dioxide between the alveolar space and bloodstream. The transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) signaling pathway plays an important role in the pathogenesis of pulmonary fibrosis and scarring of the lung tissue. Recent clinical trials focused on the development of pharmacological agents that either directly or indirectly target kinases for the treatment of IPF. Therefore, to develop therapeutic targets for pulmonary fibrosis, it is essential to understand the key factors involved in the pathogenesis of pulmonary fibrosis and the underlying signaling pathway. The objective of this review is to discuss the role of kinase signaling cascades in the regulation of either TGF-β-dependent or other signaling pathways, including Rho-associated coiled-coil kinase, c-jun N-terminal kinase, extracellular signal-regulated kinase 5, and p90 ribosomal S6 kinase pathways, and potential therapeutic targets in IPF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suji Kim
- Smart-Ageing Convergence Research Center, Yeungnam University College of Medicine, Daegu, Korea.,Department of Pharmacology, Yeungnam University College of Medicine, Daegu, Korea
| | - Jae Hyang Lim
- Department of Microbiology, Ewha Womans University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Chang-Hoon Woo
- Smart-Ageing Convergence Research Center, Yeungnam University College of Medicine, Daegu, Korea.,Department of Pharmacology, Yeungnam University College of Medicine, Daegu, Korea
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Koumarianou A, Alexandraki KI, Wallin G, Kaltsas G, Daskalakis K. Pathogenesis and Clinical Management of Mesenteric Fibrosis in Small Intestinal Neuroendocine Neoplasms: A Systematic Review. J Clin Med 2020; 9:E1777. [PMID: 32521677 PMCID: PMC7357094 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9061777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2020] [Revised: 06/04/2020] [Accepted: 06/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Mesenteric fibrosis (MF) constitutes an underrecognized sequela in patients with small intestinal neuroendocrine neoplasms (SI-NENs), often complicating the disease clinical course. The aim of the present systematic review, carried out by Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) methodology, is to provide an update in evolving aspects of MF pathogenesis and its clinical management in SI-NENs. Complex and dynamic interactions are present in the microenvironment of tumor deposits in the mesentery. Serotonin, as well as the signaling pathways of certain growth factors play a pivotal, yet not fully elucidated role in the pathogenesis of MF. Clinically, MF often results in significant morbidity by causing either acute complications, such as intestinal obstruction and/or acute ischemia or more chronic conditions involving abdominal pain, venous stasis, malabsorption and malnutrition. Surgical resection in patients with locoregional disease only or symptomatic distant stage disease, as well as palliative minimally invasive interventions in advanced inoperable cases seem clinically meaningful, whereas currently available systemic and/or targeted treatments do not unequivocally affect the development of MF in SI-NENs. Increased awareness and improved understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of MF in SI-NENs may provide better diagnostic and predictive tools for its timely recognition and intervention and also facilitates the development of agents targeting MF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Koumarianou
- Hematology Oncology Unit, Fourth Department of Internal Medicine, Attikon University General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 12462 Athens, Greece
| | - Krystallenia I. Alexandraki
- 1st Department of Propaedeutic Internal Medicine, Endocrine Unit, National and Kapodistrian, University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (K.I.A.); (G.K.); (K.D.)
| | - Göran Wallin
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, 701 85 Örebro, Sweden;
| | - Gregory Kaltsas
- 1st Department of Propaedeutic Internal Medicine, Endocrine Unit, National and Kapodistrian, University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (K.I.A.); (G.K.); (K.D.)
| | - Kosmas Daskalakis
- 1st Department of Propaedeutic Internal Medicine, Endocrine Unit, National and Kapodistrian, University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (K.I.A.); (G.K.); (K.D.)
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, 701 85 Örebro, Sweden;
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11
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Barbe MF, Hilliard BA, Amin M, Harris MY, Hobson LJ, Cruz GE, Popoff SN. Blocking CTGF/CCN2 reduces established skeletal muscle fibrosis in a rat model of overuse injury. FASEB J 2020; 34:6554-6569. [PMID: 32227398 PMCID: PMC7200299 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202000240rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Revised: 03/04/2020] [Accepted: 03/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Tissue fibrosis is a hallmark of overuse musculoskeletal injuries and contributes to functional declines. We tested whether inhibition of CCN2 (cellular communication network factor 2, previously known as connective tissue growth factor, CTGF) using a specific antibody (termed FG‐3019 or pamrevlumab) reduces established overuse‐induced muscle fibrosis in a clinically relevant rodent model of upper extremity overuse injury. Young adult rats performed a high repetition high force (HRHF) reaching and lever‐pulling task for 18 weeks, after first being shaped for 6 weeks to learn this operant task. Rats were then euthanized (HRHF‐Untreated), or rested and treated for 6 weeks with FG‐3019 (HRHF‐Rest/FG‐3019) or a human IgG as a vehicle control (HRHF‐Rest/IgG). HRHF‐Untreated and HRHF‐Rest/IgG rats had higher muscle levels of several fibrosis‐related proteins (TGFβ1, CCN2, collagen types I and III, and FGF2), and higher muscle numbers of alpha SMA and pERK immunopositive cells, compared to control rats. Each of these fibrogenic changes was restored to control levels by the blocking of CCN2 signaling in HRHF‐Rest/FG‐3019 rats, as were HRHF task‐induced increases in serum CCN2 and pro‐collagen I intact N‐terminal protein. Levels of cleaved CCN3, an antifibrotic protein, were lowered in HRHF‐Untreated and HRHF‐Rest/IgG rats, compared to control rats, yet elevated back to control levels in HRHF‐Rest/FG‐3019 rats. Significant grip strength declines observed in HRHF‐Untreated and HRHF‐Rest/IgG rats, were restored to control levels in HRHF‐Rest/FG‐3019 rats. These results are highly encouraging for use of FG‐3019 for therapeutic treatment of persistent skeletal muscle fibrosis, such as those induced with chronic overuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary F Barbe
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Brendan A Hilliard
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Mamta Amin
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Michele Y Harris
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Lucas J Hobson
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Geneva E Cruz
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Steven N Popoff
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Choi Y, Yoo JH, Lee JH, Lee Y, Bae MK, Kim YD, Kim HJ. Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) regulates the fusion of osteoclast precursors by inhibiting Bcl6 in periodontitis. Int J Med Sci 2020; 17:647-656. [PMID: 32210715 PMCID: PMC7085216 DOI: 10.7150/ijms.41075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2019] [Accepted: 02/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), an extracellular matrix protein with various biological functions, is known to be upregulated in multiple chronic diseases such as liver fibrosis and congestive heart failure, but the mechanism it undertakes to cause alveolar bone loss in periodontitis remains elusive. The present study therefore investigates the pathways involving CTGF in chronic periodontitis. RNA sequencing revealed a notable increase in the expression of CTGF in chronic periodontitis tissues. Also, TRAP staining, TRAP activity and bone resorption assays showed that osteoclast formation and function is significantly facilitated in CTGF-treated bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMMs). Interestingly, western blotting and immunofluorescence staining results displayed that CTGF had little effect on the osteoclastogenic differentiation mediated by the positive regulators of osteoclastogenesis such as nuclear factor of activated T cells 1 (NFATc1). However, following results showed that both the mRNA and protein expressions of B cell lymphoma 6 (Bcl6), a transcriptional repressor of "osteoclastic" genes, were significantly downregulated by CTGF treatment. Moreover, CTGF upregulated the expressions of v-ATPase V0 subunit d2 (ATP6v0d2) and Dendritic cell-specific transmembrane protein (DC-STAMP) which are osteoclastic genes specifically required for osteoclast cell-cell fusion in pre-osteoclasts. Findings from this study suggest that CTGF promotes the fusion of pre-osteoclasts by downregulating Bcl6 and subsequently increasing the expression of DC-STAMP in periodontitis. Understanding this novel mechanism that leads to increased osteoclastogenesis in periodontitis may be employed for the development of new therapeutic targets for preventing periodontitis-associated alveolar bone resorption.
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Affiliation(s)
- YunJeong Choi
- Department of Oral Physiology, BK21 PLUS Project, Periodontal Diseases Signaling Network Research Center, and Dental and Life Science Institute, School of Dentistry, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Republic of Korea, 50611
| | - Ji Hyun Yoo
- Department of Oral Physiology, BK21 PLUS Project, Periodontal Diseases Signaling Network Research Center, and Dental and Life Science Institute, School of Dentistry, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Republic of Korea, 50611
| | - Jae-Hyung Lee
- Department of Maxillofacial Biomedical Engineering, School of Dentistry, Department of Life and Nanopharmaceutical Sciences, Kyung Hee Medical Science Institute, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea, 02447
| | - Youngkyun Lee
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Dentistry, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea, 41940
| | - Moon-Kyoung Bae
- Department of Oral Physiology, BK21 PLUS Project, Periodontal Diseases Signaling Network Research Center, and Dental and Life Science Institute, School of Dentistry, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Republic of Korea, 50611
| | - Yong-Deok Kim
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Dental Research Institute, and Dental and Life Science Institute, School of Dentistry, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Republic of Korea, 50611
| | - Hyung Joon Kim
- Department of Oral Physiology, BK21 PLUS Project, Periodontal Diseases Signaling Network Research Center, and Dental and Life Science Institute, School of Dentistry, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Republic of Korea, 50611
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13
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Shimbo A, Kajiyama H, Tamauchi S, Yoshikawa N, Ikeda Y, Nishino K, Suzuki S, Niimi K, Sakata J, Kikkawa F. Expression of connective tissue growth factor as a prognostic indicator and its possible involvement in the aggressive properties of epithelial ovarian carcinoma. Oncol Rep 2019; 42:2323-2332. [PMID: 31578579 PMCID: PMC6826307 DOI: 10.3892/or.2019.7352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2019] [Accepted: 09/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently, connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) was demonstrated to be associated with aggressive characteristics, including proliferation, invasion and metastasis, in a number of malignancies. Here, we investigated the expression and function of CTGF in epithelial ovarian carcinoma (EOC) to clarify its molecular mechanism and clinical significance. Paraffin sections from clinical samples of EOC (N=104) were immunostained with the CTGF antibody, and then the staining positivity was semiquantitatively examined. Moreover, we explored the role of CTGF expression in the migration-promoting effect on and chemoresistance of EOC cells. The results revealed that of the 104 EOC patients, the low and high CTGF staining expression rates were 65 (62.5%) and 39 (37.5%), respectively. Patients belonging to the higher-level CTGF group showed poorer progression-free (PFS) and overall survival (OS) rates than those in the lower-level group [PFS (log-rank: P=0.0076) and OS (log-rank: P=0.0078), respectively]. Multivariable analysis showed that CTGF expression was a significant predictor of poorer PFS and OS [PFS: HR (high vs. low): 1.837, 95% CI: 1.023–3.289 (P=0.0418); OS: HR: 2.141, 95% CI: 1.077–4.296 (P=0.0300)]. In in vitro studies, in acquired paclitaxel (PTX)-resistant EOC cells, the silencing of CTGF expression led to the restoration of PTX sensitivity. Furthermore, we confirmed that the TGF-β-dependent migration-promoting effect on these CTGF-depleted cells was completely inhibited. In conclusion, the results of the present study suggest the possible involvement of CTGF in the migration-promoting effect and chemoresistance of EOC, suggesting that it may be a target for overcoming the malignant properties of EOC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akiko Shimbo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi 466‑8550, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Kajiyama
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi 466‑8550, Japan
| | - Satoshi Tamauchi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi 466‑8550, Japan
| | - Nobuhisa Yoshikawa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi 466‑8550, Japan
| | - Yoshiki Ikeda
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi 466‑8550, Japan
| | - Kimihiro Nishino
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi 466‑8550, Japan
| | - Shiro Suzuki
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi 466‑8550, Japan
| | - Kaoru Niimi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi 466‑8550, Japan
| | - Jun Sakata
- Department of Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, Aichi Cancer Center Hospital, Nagoya, Aichi 464‑8681, Japan
| | - Fumitaka Kikkawa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi 466‑8550, Japan
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A Comparative Genomic and Phylogenetic Analysis of the Origin and Evolution of the CCN Gene Family. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2019; 2019:8620878. [PMID: 31321242 PMCID: PMC6610741 DOI: 10.1155/2019/8620878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2019] [Revised: 05/04/2019] [Accepted: 05/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
CCN gene family members have recently been identified as multifunctional regulators involved in diverse biological functions, especially in vascular and skeletal development. In the present study, a comparative genomic and phylogenetic analysis was performed to show the similarities and differences in structure and function of CCNs from different organisms and to reveal their potential evolutionary relationship. First, CCN homologs of metazoans from different species were identified. Then we made multiple sequence alignments, MEME analysis, and functional sites prediction, which show the highly conserved structural features among CCN metazoans. The phylogenetic tree was further established, and thus CCNs were found undergoing extensive lineage-specific duplication events and lineage-specific expansion during the evolutionary process. Besides, comparative analysis about the genomic organization and chromosomal CCN gene surrounding indicated a clear orthologous relationship among these species counterparts. At last, based on these research results above, a potential evolutionary scenario was generated to overview the origin and evolution of the CCN gene family.
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15
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Li Z, Yan G, Diao Q, Yu F, Li X, Sheng X, Liu Y, Dai Y, Zhou H, Zhen X, Hu Y, Péault B, Ding L, Sun H, Li H. Transplantation of human endometrial perivascular cells with elevated CYR61 expression induces angiogenesis and promotes repair of a full-thickness uterine injury in rat. Stem Cell Res Ther 2019; 10:179. [PMID: 31215503 PMCID: PMC6582612 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-019-1272-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2019] [Revised: 04/25/2019] [Accepted: 05/21/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Disruptions of angiogenesis can have a significant effect on the healing of uterine scars. Human endometrial perivascular cells (CD146+PDGFRβ+) function as stem cells in the endometrium. Cysteine-rich angiogenic inducer 61 (CYR61) plays an important role in vascular development. The purpose of this study was to observe the effects of the transplantation of human endometrial perivascular cells (En-PSCs) overexpressing CYR61 on structural and functional regeneration in rat models of partial full-thickness uterine excision. Methods We first sorted human En-PSCs from endometrial single-cell suspensions by flow cytometry. Human En-PSCs expressing low or high levels of CYR61 were then generated via transfection with a CYR61-specific small interfering ribonucleic acid (si-CYR61) construct or overexpression plasmid. To establish a rat model of uterine injury, a subset of uterine wall was then resected from each uterine horn in experimental animals. Female rats were randomly assigned to five groups, including a sham-operated group and four repair groups that received either PBS loaded on a collagen scaffold (collagen/PBS), En-PSCs loaded on a collagen scaffold (collagen/En-PSCs), En-PSCs with low CYR61 expression loaded on a collagen scaffold (collagen/si-CYR61 En-PSCs), and En-PSCs overexpressing CYR61 loaded on a collagen scaffold (collagen/ov-CYR61 En-PSCs). These indicated constructs were sutured in the injured uterine area to replace the excised segment. On days 30 and 90 after transplantation, a subset of rats in each group was sacrificed, and uterine tissue was recovered and serially sectioned. Hematoxylin and eosin staining and immunohistochemical staining were then performed. Finally, the remaining rats of each group were mated with fertile male rats on day 90 for a 2-week period. Results Sorted En-PSCs expressed all recognized markers of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), including CD10, CD13, CD44, CD73, CD90, and CD105, and exhibited differentiation potential toward adipocytes, osteoblasts, and neuron-like cells. Compared with En-PSCs and En-PSCs with low CYR61 expression, En-PSCs with elevated CYR61 expression enhanced angiogenesis by in vitro co-culture assays. At day 90 after transplantation, blood vessel density in the collagen/ov-CYR61 En-PSCs group (11.667 ± 1.287) was greater than that in the collagen/En-PSCs group (7.167 ± 0.672) (P < 0.05) and the collagen/si-CYR61 En-PSCs group (3.750 ± 0.906) (P < 0.0001). Pregnancy rates differed among groups, from 40% in the collagen/PBS group to 80% in the collagen/En-PSCs group, 12.5% in the collagen/si-CYR61 En-PSCs group, and 80% in the collagen/ov-CYR61 En-PSCs group. In addition, four embryos were evident in the injured uterine horns of the collagen/ov-CYR61 En-PSCs group, while no embryos were identified in the injured uterine horns of the collagen/PBS group. Conclusions The results showed that CYR61 plays an important role in angiogenesis. Collagen/ov-CYR61 En-PSCs promoted endometrial and myometrial regeneration and induced neovascular regeneration in injured rat uteri. The pregnancy rate of rats treated with transplantation of collagen/En-PSCs or collagen/ov-CYR61 En-PSCs was improved. Moreover, the number of embryos implantation on the injured area in uterus was increased after transplantation of collagen/ov-CYR61 En-PSCs. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13287-019-1272-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongxun Li
- Department of Histology and Embryology of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, China.,Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Guijun Yan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Qiang Diao
- Department of Medical Imaging, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210002, China
| | - Fei Yu
- Center for Experimental Animal, the Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Xin'an Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Xiaoqiang Sheng
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Yong Liu
- Department of Experimental Medicine, the Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Yimin Dai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Huaijun Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Xin Zhen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Yali Hu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Bruno Péault
- UKMRC Center for Regenerative Medicine and Center for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
| | - Lijun Ding
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, China. .,UKMRC Center for Regenerative Medicine and Center for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK. .,Clinical Center for Stem Cell Research, the Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, China.
| | - Haixiang Sun
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, China. .,Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.
| | - Hairong Li
- Department of Histology and Embryology of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, China.
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Chen L, Brenner DA, Kisseleva T. Combatting Fibrosis: Exosome-Based Therapies in the Regression of Liver Fibrosis. Hepatol Commun 2018; 3:180-192. [PMID: 30766956 PMCID: PMC6357832 DOI: 10.1002/hep4.1290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2018] [Accepted: 10/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis results from chronic injury and inflammation in the liver and leads to cirrhosis, liver failure, and portal hypertension. Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying hepatic fibrosis has advanced the prospect of developing therapies for regression of the disease. Resolution of fibrosis requires a reduction of proinflammatory and fibrogenic cytokines, a decrease in extracellular matrix (ECM) protein production, an increase in collagenase activity, and finally, a disappearance of activated myofibroblasts. Exosomes are nanovesicles of endocytic origin secreted by most cell types. They epigenetically reprogram and alter the phenotype of their recipient cells and hold great promise for the reversal of fibrosis. Recent studies have shown that exosomes function as conduits for intercellular transfer and contain all the necessary components to induce resolution of fibrosis, including the ability to (1) inhibit macrophage activation and cytokine secretion, (2) remodel ECM production and decrease fibrous scars, and (3) inactivate hepatic stellate cells, a major myofibroblast population. Here, we discuss the research involving the regression of hepatic fibrosis. We focus on the newly discovered roles of exosomes during fibrogenesis and as a therapy for fibrosis reversal. We also emphasize the novel discoveries of exosome‐based antifibrotic treatments in vitro and in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Chen
- Department of Medicine University of California San Diego La Jolla CA
| | - David A Brenner
- Department of Medicine University of California San Diego La Jolla CA
| | - Tatiana Kisseleva
- Department of Surgery University of California San Diego La Jolla CA
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Wallace K, Chatman K, Johnson V, Brookins A, Rushing J, LaMarca B. Novel treatment avenues for uterine leiomyoma: a new implication for endothelin? Clin Sci (Lond) 2018; 132:2261-2267. [PMID: 30301761 PMCID: PMC6614866 DOI: 10.1042/cs20180474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2018] [Revised: 10/04/2018] [Accepted: 10/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Cysteine-rich angiogenic inducer 61 (CYR61), an angiogenic factor whose expression is decreased in fibroids. The aim of the present study was to determine if CYR61 secretion in smooth muscle cells (SMCs) is regulated by hypoxia and through the endothelin A (ETA) receptor. SMCs from fibroids (fSMC) and the adjacent myometrium smooth muscle cells (mSMCs) were extracted from ten women undergoing hysterectomy for uterine fibroids and cultured with or without 1.0 µM of an ETA receptor antagonist for 24 h under either normal or hypoxic oxygen conditions. Cellular secretion of endothelin-1 (ET-1) and CYR61 were measured via enzyme linked immunosorbent assay in the cell culture media. SMCs were collected to determine cell proliferation and CYR61 protein expression via Western blot. ET-1 secretion was significantly increased in fSMC and was decreased with blockade of the ETA receptor under both normoxia (P=0.0004) and hypoxia (P=0.008). CYR61 expression was decreased in fSMCs and significantly increased with blockade of the ETA receptor under hypoxia (P=0.04). Cell proliferation decreased with ETA blockade under normoxia (P=0.0001) and hypoxia (P=0.001). These results suggest that suppression of CYR61 secretion in fSMC is regulated by the ET-1 and that blockade with ETA could be considered for a future treatment option.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kedra Wallace
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, 2500 N. State St., Jackson, MS 39216, U.S.A.
| | - Krystal Chatman
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, 2500 N. State St., Jackson, MS 39216, U.S.A
| | - Venessia Johnson
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, 2500 N. State St., Jackson, MS 39216, U.S.A
| | - Alexis Brookins
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, 2500 N. State St., Jackson, MS 39216, U.S.A
| | - John Rushing
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, 2500 N. State St., Jackson, MS 39216, U.S.A
| | - Babbette LaMarca
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, 2500 N. State St., Jackson, MS 39216, U.S.A
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, 2500 N. State St., Jackson, MS 39216, U.S.A
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18
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Shah JS, Sabouni R, Cayton Vaught KC, Owen CM, Albertini DF, Segars JH. Biomechanics and mechanical signaling in the ovary: a systematic review. J Assist Reprod Genet 2018; 35:1135-1148. [PMID: 29691711 PMCID: PMC6063820 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-018-1180-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2018] [Accepted: 04/05/2018] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Mammalian oogenesis and folliculogenesis share a dynamic connection that is critical for gamete development. For maintenance of quiescence or follicular activation, follicles must respond to soluble signals (growth factors and hormones) and physical stresses, including mechanical forces and osmotic shifts. Likewise, mechanical processes are involved in cortical tension and cell polarity in oocytes. Our objective was to examine the contribution and influence of biomechanical signaling in female mammalian gametogenesis. METHODS We performed a systematic review to assess and summarize the effects of mechanical signaling and mechanotransduction in oocyte maturation and folliculogenesis and to explore possible clinical applications. The review identified 2568 publications of which 122 met the inclusion criteria. RESULTS The integration of mechanical and cell signaling pathways in gametogenesis is complex. Follicular activation or quiescence are influenced by mechanical signaling through the Hippo and Akt pathways involving the yes-associated protein (YAP), transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ), phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted from chromosome 10 (PTEN) gene, the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), and forkhead box O3 (FOXO3) gene. CONCLUSIONS There is overwhelming evidence that mechanical signaling plays a crucial role in development of the ovary, follicle, and oocyte throughout gametogenesis. Emerging data suggest the complexities of mechanotransduction and the biomechanics of oocytes and follicles are integral to understanding of primary ovarian insufficiency, ovarian aging, polycystic ovary syndrome, and applications of fertility preservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaimin S Shah
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of Texas at Houston Health Science Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Reem Sabouni
- Jones Institute for Reproductive Medicine, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA
| | - Kamaria C Cayton Vaught
- Howard W. and Georgeanna Seegar Jones Division of Reproductive Sciences and Women's Health Research, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Carter M Owen
- Program in Reproductive and Adult Endocrinology, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | | | - James H Segars
- Howard W. and Georgeanna Seegar Jones Division of Reproductive Sciences and Women's Health Research, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- Gynecology and Obstetrics, 720 Rutland Avenue/Ross 624, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
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Chen CT, Lee HL, Chiou HL, Chou CH, Wang PH, Yang SF, Chou YE. Impacts of WNT1-inducible signaling pathway protein 1 polymorphism on hepatocellular carcinoma development. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0198967. [PMID: 29889892 PMCID: PMC5995385 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0198967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2018] [Accepted: 05/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND WNT1-inducible signaling pathway protein 1 (WISP1) is a member of CCN protein family and a downstream target of β-catenin. Aberrant WISP1 expression is associated with carcinogenesis. In the current study, we focused on examining WISP1 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) to elucidate hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) clinicopathologic characteristics. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS The WISP1 SNPs rs2977530, rs2977537, rs2929973, rs2929970, rs62514004, and rs16893344 were analyzed by real-time polymerase chain reaction in 332 patients with HCC and 664 cancer-free controls. RESULTS The patients with higher frequencies of WISP1 rs62514004 (AG + GG) and rs16893344 (CT + TT) variants revealed a lower risk to reach a later clinical stage compared with their wild-type carriers. Furthermore, individuals who carried WISP1 rs62514004 and rs16893344 haplotype G-T showed a greater synergistic effect combined with alcohol drinking on HCC development (AOR = 26.590, 95% CI = 9.780-72.295). CONCLUSIONS Our results demonstrated that the HCC patients with WISP1 SNPs are associated with HCC development, and WISP1 SNPs may serve as markers or therapeutic targets for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chih-Tien Chen
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Surgery, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Hsiang-Lin Lee
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Surgery, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Hui-Ling Chiou
- School of Medical Laboratory and Biotechnology, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Hsuan Chou
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Po-Hui Wang
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Shun-Fa Yang
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Research, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Ying-Erh Chou
- School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Research, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
- * E-mail:
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20
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Haque I, Ghosh A, Acup S, Banerjee S, Dhar K, Ray A, Sarkar S, Kambhampati S, Banerjee SK. Leptin-induced ER-α-positive breast cancer cell viability and migration is mediated by suppressing CCN5-signaling via activating JAK/AKT/STAT-pathway. BMC Cancer 2018; 18:99. [PMID: 29370782 PMCID: PMC5785848 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-018-3993-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2017] [Accepted: 01/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In menopausal women, one of the critical risk factors for breast cancer is obesity/adiposity. It is evident from various studies that leptin, a 16 kDa protein hormone overproduced in obese people, plays the critical role in neovascularization and tumorigenesis in breast and other organs. However, the mechanisms by which obesity influences the breast carcinogenesis remained unclear. In this study, by analyzing different estrogen receptor-α (ER-α)-positive and ER-α-negative BC cell lines, we defined the role of CCN5 in the leptin-mediated regulation of growth and invasive capacity. Methods We analyzed the effect of leptin on cell viability of ER-α-positive MCF-7 and ZR-75-1 cell lines and ER-α-negative MDA-MB-231 cell line. Additionally, we also determined the effect of leptin on the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) bio-markers, in vitro invasion and sphere-formation of MCF-7 and ZR-75-1 cell lines. To understand the mechanism, we determined the impact of leptin on CCN5 expression and the functional role of CCN5 in these cells by the treatment of human recombinant CCN5 protein(hrCCN5). Moreover, we also determined the role of JAK-STAT and AKT in the regulation of leptin-induced suppression of CCN5 in BC cells. Results Present studies demonstrate that leptin can induce cell viability, EMT, sphere-forming ability and migration of MCF-7 and ZR-75-1 cell lines. Furthermore, these studies found that leptin suppresses the expression of CCN5 at the transcriptional level. Although the CCN5 suppression has no impact on the constitutive proliferation of MCF-7 and ZR-75-1 cells, it is critical for leptin-induced viability and necessary for EMT, induction of in vitro migration and sphere formation, as the hrCCN5 treatment significantly inhibits the leptin-induced viability, EMT, migration and sphere-forming ability of these cells. Mechanistically, CCN5-suppression by leptin is mediated via activating JAK/AKT/STAT-signaling pathways. Conclusions These studies suggest that CCN5 serves as a gatekeeper for leptin-dependent growth and progression of luminal-type (ER-positive) BC cells. Leptin may thus need to destroy the CCN5-barrier to promote BC growth and progression via activating JAK/AKT/STAT signaling. Therefore, these observations suggest a therapeutic potency of CCN5 by restoration or treatment in obese-related luminal-type BC growth and progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inamul Haque
- Cancer Research Unit, VA Medical Center, Kansas City, MO, USA.,Department of Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | - Arnab Ghosh
- Cancer Research Unit, VA Medical Center, Kansas City, MO, USA.,Department of Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | - Seth Acup
- Cancer Research Unit, VA Medical Center, Kansas City, MO, USA
| | - Snigdha Banerjee
- Cancer Research Unit, VA Medical Center, Kansas City, MO, USA. .,Department of Pathology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA. .,Cancer Research Unit, Research Division 151, VA Medical Center, 4801 Linwood Boulevard, Kansas City, MO, 64128, USA.
| | - Kakali Dhar
- Cancer Research Unit, VA Medical Center, Kansas City, MO, USA.,Present Address: Syngene International Ltd, Clinical Development, Tower 1, Semicon Park, Phase II, Electronics City, Hosur Road, Bangalore, Karnataka, 560100, India.,Present Address: Saint James School of Medicine, Anguilla, British West Indies, USA
| | - Amitabha Ray
- Cancer Research Unit, VA Medical Center, Kansas City, MO, USA.,Present Address: Syngene International Ltd, Clinical Development, Tower 1, Semicon Park, Phase II, Electronics City, Hosur Road, Bangalore, Karnataka, 560100, India.,Present Address: Saint James School of Medicine, Anguilla, British West Indies, USA
| | - Sandipto Sarkar
- Cancer Research Unit, VA Medical Center, Kansas City, MO, USA.,Department of Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | | | - Sushanta K Banerjee
- Cancer Research Unit, VA Medical Center, Kansas City, MO, USA. .,Department of Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA. .,Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA. .,Department of Pathology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA. .,Cancer Research Unit, Research Division 151, VA Medical Center, 4801 Linwood Boulevard, Kansas City, MO, 64128, USA.
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21
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Wei J, Yu G, Shao G, Sun A, Chen M, Yang W, Lin Q. CYR61 (CCN1) is a metastatic biomarker of gastric cardia adenocarcinoma. Oncotarget 2018; 7:31067-78. [PMID: 27105510 PMCID: PMC5058739 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.8845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2016] [Accepted: 03/31/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Gastric cardia adenocarcinoma (GCA) is the most aggressive subtype of gastric cancer with a high metastatic rate. In this report, we collected tumor tissue samples from 214 GCA cases and examined expression of CYR61, a target gene product of the Hippo-YAP/TAZ pathway, in the GCA tumors by immunohistochemical (IHC) staining using the tissue microarray assay (TMA). The results have shown that CYR61 is overexpressed in 44% of the GCA tumor samples. Expression of CYR61 is inversely correlated with cumulative survival of GCA patients (p<0.001) and significantly associated only with metastatic pathological categories (with N category, p=0.052; with TNM stage, p=0.001). Furthermore, knockdown of CYR61 in gastric cancer AGS cells impairs the cancer cell migration and invasion, suggesting a driver role of CYR61 in metastasis. Thus, our studies have established CYR61 as a metastatic biomarker for prediction of poor prognosis of GCA and provided a potential molecular target for anti-metastatic therapy of GCA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Wei
- School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China
| | | | - Genbao Shao
- School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China
| | - Aiqin Sun
- School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China
| | - Miao Chen
- School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China.,The Affiliated Hospital, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China
| | - Wannian Yang
- School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China
| | - Qiong Lin
- School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China
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22
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Ebnerasuly F, Hajebrahimi Z, Tabaie SM, Darbouy M. Effect of Simulated Microgravity Conditions on Differentiation of Adipose Derived Stem Cells towards Fibroblasts Using Connective Tissue Growth Factor. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF BIOTECHNOLOGY 2017; 15:241-251. [PMID: 29845076 DOI: 10.15171/ijb.1747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2016] [Revised: 06/14/2017] [Accepted: 07/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Background: Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are multipotent cells able to differentiating into a variety of mesenchymal tissues including osteoblasts, adipocytes and several other tissues. Objectives: Differentiation of MSCs into fibroblast cells in vitro is an attractive strategy to achieve fibroblast cell and use them for purposes such as regeneration medicine. The goal of this study was investigate the simulated microgravity effect on differentiation of Adipose Derived Stem Cells (ADSCs) to fibroblasts. Materials and Methods: To fibroblast differentiation 100 ng.mL-1 of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), and for simulation microgravity, 2D clinostat was used. After isolation the human ADSCs from adipose, cells were passaged, and at passages 3 they were used for characterization and subsequent steps. After 7 days of CTGF and simulated microgravity treatment, proliferation, and differentiation were analyzed collectively by MTT assay, quantitative PCR analyses, and Immunocytochemistry staining. Results: MTT assay revealed that CTGF stimulate the proliferation but simulated microgravity didn't have statistically significant effect on cell proliferation. In RNA level the expression of these genes are investigated: collagen type I (COLI), elastin (ELA), collagen type III (ColIII), Matrix Metalloproteinases I(MMP1), Fibronectin 1 (FN1), CD44, Fibroblast Specific protein (FSP-1), Integrin Subunit Beta 1 (ITGB1), Vimentin (VIM) and Fibrillin (FBN). We found that expression of ELN, FN1, FSP1, COL1A1, ITGB1, MMP1 and COL3A1 in both condition, and VIM and FBN1 just in differentiation medium in normal gravity increased. In protein level the expression of COL III and ELN in simulated microgravity increased. Conclusions: These findings collectively demonstrate that the simulated microgravity condition alters the marker fibroblast gene expression in fibroblast differentiation process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farid Ebnerasuly
- Department of Biology, Fars Science and Research Branch , Islamic Azad University, Marvdasht, Iran.,Department of Biology, Marvdasht Branch, Islamic Azad University, Marvdasht, Iran
| | - Zahra Hajebrahimi
- Aerospace Research Institute, Ministry of Science Research and Technology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Mehdi Tabaie
- Medical Laser Research Center, Iranian Academic Center for Education, Culture and Research (ACECR), Tehran, Iran
| | - Mojtaba Darbouy
- Department of Biology, Fars Science and Research Branch , Islamic Azad University, Marvdasht, Iran.,Department of Biology, Marvdasht Branch, Islamic Azad University, Marvdasht, Iran
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23
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Takigawa M. An early history of CCN2/CTGF research: the road to CCN2 via hcs24, ctgf, ecogenin, and regenerin. J Cell Commun Signal 2017; 12:253-264. [PMID: 29076115 DOI: 10.1007/s12079-017-0414-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2017] [Accepted: 09/27/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The principal aim of this historical review is to present the processes by which the different aspects of CCN2/CTGF/Hcs24 were discovered by different groups and how much CCN2/CTGF, by being integrated into CCN family, has contributed to the establishment of the basic concepts regarding the role and functions of this new class of proteins. This review should be particularly useful to new investigators who have recently entered this exciting field of study and also provides a good opportunity to acknowledge the input of those individuals who participated in the development of this scientific field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masaharu Takigawa
- Advanced Research Center for Oral and Craniofacial Sciences (ARCOCS), Okayama University Dental School/Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2-5-1, Shikata-cho, Okayama, 700-8525, Japan.
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24
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Lee S, Elaskandrany M, Lau LF, Lazzaro D, Grant MB, Chaqour B. Interplay between CCN1 and Wnt5a in endothelial cells and pericytes determines the angiogenic outcome in a model of ischemic retinopathy. Sci Rep 2017; 7:1405. [PMID: 28469167 PMCID: PMC5431199 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-01585-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2016] [Accepted: 03/31/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
CYR61-CTGF-NOV (CCN)1 is a dynamically expressed extracellular matrix (ECM) protein with critical functions in cardiovascular development and tissue repair. Angiogenic endothelial cells (ECs) are a major cellular source of CCN1 which, once secreted, associates with the ECM and the cell surface and tightly controls the bidirectional flow of information between cells and the surrounding matrix. Endothelium-specific CCN1 deletion in mice using a cre/lox strategy induces EC hyperplasia and causes blood vessels to coalesce into large flat hyperplastic sinuses with no distinctive hierarchical organization. This is consistent with the role of CCN1 as a negative feedback regulator of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) receptor activation. In the mouse model of oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR), pericytes become the predominant CCN1 producing cells. Pericyte-specific deletion of CCN1 significantly decreases pathological retinal neovascularization following OIR. CCN1 induces the expression of the non-canonical Wnt5a in pericyte but not in EC cultures. In turn, exogenous Wnt5a inhibits CCN1 gene expression, induces EC proliferation and increases hypersprouting. Concordantly, treatment of mice with TNP470, a non-canonical Wnt5a inhibitor, reestablishes endothelial expression of CCN1 and significantly decreases pathological neovascular growth in OIR. Our data highlight the significance of CCN1-EC and CCN1-pericyte communication signals in driving physiological and pathological angiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sangmi Lee
- Department of Cell Biology, State University of New York (SUNY), Downstate Medical Center, College of Medicine, Brooklyn, NY, 11203, USA
| | - Menna Elaskandrany
- Department of Cell Biology, State University of New York (SUNY), Downstate Medical Center, College of Medicine, Brooklyn, NY, 11203, USA
| | - Lester F Lau
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine, Chicago, IL, 60607, USA
| | - Douglas Lazzaro
- Department of Ophthalmology, Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY, 11203, USA
| | - Maria B Grant
- Departments of Ophthalmology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA
| | - Brahim Chaqour
- Department of Cell Biology, State University of New York (SUNY), Downstate Medical Center, College of Medicine, Brooklyn, NY, 11203, USA.
- Department of Ophthalmology, Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY, 11203, USA.
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25
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Purohit T, Qin Z, Quan C, Lin Z, Quan T. Smad3-dependent CCN2 mediates fibronectin expression in human skin dermal fibroblasts. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0173191. [PMID: 28267785 PMCID: PMC5340390 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0173191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2016] [Accepted: 02/16/2017] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The potential involvement of connective tissue growth factor (CCN2/CTGF) in extracellular matrix (ECM) production is recognized. However, the role CCN2 in fibronectin (FN) gene expression has remained incompletely understood and even controversial. Here we report that CCN2 is absolutely necessary for FN expression in primary human skin dermal fibroblasts, the major cells responsible for ECM production in skin. Gain- and loss-of-function approaches demonstrate that CCN2 is an essential component of FN expression in both basal and stimulation by TGF-β signaling, the major regulator of FN expression. CCN2 is significantly induced by Smad3, a critical mediator of TGF-β signaling. CCN2 acts as a downstream mediator of TGF-β/Smad signaling and acting synergistically with TGF-β to regulate FN gene expression. Finally, we observed that CCN2 and FN predominantly expressed in the dermis of normal human skin, stromal tissues of skin squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and simultaneously induced in wounded human skin in vivo. These findings provide evidence that CCN2 is responsible for mediating the stimulatory effects of TGF-β/Smad on FN gene expression, and attenuation of CCN2 expression may benefit to reduce fibrotic ECM microenvironment in disease skin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trupta Purohit
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Zhaoping Qin
- Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Chunji Quan
- Department of Pathology & Cancer Research Center, Yanbian University Medical College, Yanji, China
| | - Zhenhua Lin
- Department of Pathology & Cancer Research Center, Yanbian University Medical College, Yanji, China
| | - Taihao Quan
- Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States of America
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26
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Fong KW, Zhao JC, Kim J, Li S, Yang YA, Song B, Rittie L, Hu M, Yang X, Perbal B, Yu J. Polycomb-Mediated Disruption of an Androgen Receptor Feedback Loop Drives Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer. Cancer Res 2016; 77:412-422. [PMID: 27815387 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-16-1949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2016] [Revised: 09/19/2016] [Accepted: 10/13/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The lethal phenotype of castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) is generally caused by augmented signaling from the androgen receptor (AR). Here, we report that the AR-repressed gene CCN3/NOV inhibits AR signaling and acts in a negative feedback loop to block AR function. Mechanistically, a cytoplasmic form of CCN3 interacted with the AR N-terminal domain to sequester AR in the cytoplasm of prostate cancer cells, thereby reducing AR transcriptional activity and inhibiting cell growth. However, constitutive repression of CCN3 by the Polycomb group protein EZH2 disrupted this negative feedback loop in both CRPC and enzalutamide-resistant prostate cancer cells. Notably, restoring CCN3 was sufficient to effectively reduce CPRC cell proliferation in vitro and to abolish xenograft tumor growth in vivo Taken together, our findings establish CCN3 as a pivotal regulator of AR signaling and prostate cancer progression and suggest a functional intersection between Polycomb and AR signaling in CRPC. Cancer Res; 77(2); 412-22. ©2016 AACR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ka-Wing Fong
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Jonathan C Zhao
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Jung Kim
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Shangze Li
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Yeqing A Yang
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Bing Song
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Laure Rittie
- Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Ming Hu
- Division of Biostatistics, Department of Population Health, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Ximing Yang
- Department of Pathology, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
- Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Bernard Perbal
- Sources et Méthodologie du Droit Economique, GREDEG-CREDECO CNRS UMR 7321 Université de Nice-Sophia Antipolis and International CCN Society, Nice, France
| | - Jindan Yu
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois.
- Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
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27
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Li FJ, Wang XJ, Zhou XL. WISP-1 overexpression upregulates cell proliferation in human salivary gland carcinomas via regulating MMP-2 expression. Onco Targets Ther 2016; 9:6539-6548. [PMID: 27799801 PMCID: PMC5085305 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s107166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND WISP-1 is a member of the CCN family of growth factors and has been reported to play an important role in tumorigenesis by triggering downstream events via integrin signaling. However, little is known about the role of WISP-1 in proliferation of salivary gland carcinoma (SGC) cells. METHODS In this study, we investigated the WISP-1 expression in SGC tissues via immunohistochemical staining, Western blotting assay, and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction method, and then evaluated the regulatory role of WISP-1 in the growth of SGC A-253 cells. In addition, the role of MMP-2 in the WISP-1-mediated growth regulation was also investigated. RESULTS It was demonstrated that the WISP-1 expression was upregulated at both mRNA and protein levels in 15 of 21 SGC tumor tissues, compared to the non-tumor tissues (five of 21), associated with the lymph node dissection and bone invasion. The in vitro CCK-8 assay and colony-forming assay demonstrated that the exogenous WISP-1 treatment or the WISP-1 overexpression promoted the growth of A-253 cells. In addition, we confirmed that the WISP-1 overexpression upregulated the MMP-2 expression in A-253 cells with the gain-of-function and loss-of-function strategies, and that the MMP-2 knockdown attenuated the WISP-1-mediated growth promotion of A-253 cells. CONCLUSION We found that WISP-1 was overexpressed in the human SGCs, and the WISP-1 overexpression promoted the salivary gland cell proliferation via upregulating MMP-2 expression. Our study recognized the oncogenic role of WISP-1 in human SGCs, which could serve as a potential target for anticancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fu-Jun Li
- Department of Stomatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Xin-Juan Wang
- Department of Stomatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao-Li Zhou
- Department of Stomatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, People's Republic of China
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28
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Zhu X, Song Y, Wu C, Pan C, Lu P, Wang M, Zheng P, Huo R, Zhang C, Li W, Lin Y, Cao Y, Li N. Cyr61 participates in the pathogenesis of acute lymphoblastic leukemia by enhancing cellular survival via the AKT/NF-κB signaling pathway. Sci Rep 2016; 6:34018. [PMID: 27725691 PMCID: PMC5057070 DOI: 10.1038/srep34018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2016] [Accepted: 09/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Cyr61 (CCN1) is the product of a growth factor–inducible immediate early gene and is involved in cell adhesion, survival, proliferation, and differentiation. Cyr61 is overexpressed in human tumors and is involved in the development of tumors. However, the role that Cyr61 plays in acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) cells remains undetermined. The aim of this study was to identify the role of Cyr61 in regulating ALL cell survival. Here, we found that the level of Cyr61 was increased in the plasma and bone marrow (BM) from ALL patients compared with samples from normal control patients. Furthermore, we observed that Cyr61 could effectively stimulate Jurkat (T ALL cell lines), Nalm-6 (B ALL cell lines), and primary ALL cell survival. Mechanistically, we showed that Cyr61 stimulated ALL cell survival via the AKT/NF-κB signaling pathways and the consequent up-regulation of Bcl-2. Taken together, our study is the first to reveal that Cyr61 is elevated in ALL and promotes cell survival through the AKT/NF-κB pathway by up-regulating Bcl-2. Our findings suggest that Cyr61 plays an important role in the pathogenesis of ALL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianjin Zhu
- Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, 29 Xinquan Road, Fuzhou 350001, China
| | - Yanfang Song
- Affiliated Renmin Hospital of Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 602 Bayiqi Road, Fuzhou 350001, China
| | - Conglian Wu
- Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, 29 Xinquan Road, Fuzhou 350001, China
| | - Chuxi Pan
- University of Toronto, 27 King's College Circle, Toronto M5S1A1, Canada
| | - Pingxia Lu
- Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, 29 Xinquan Road, Fuzhou 350001, China
| | - Meihua Wang
- Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, 29 Xinquan Road, Fuzhou 350001, China
| | - Peizheng Zheng
- Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, 29 Xinquan Road, Fuzhou 350001, China
| | - Rongfen Huo
- Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Institute of medical sciences, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 280 South Chongqing Road, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Chenqing Zhang
- Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, 29 Xinquan Road, Fuzhou 350001, China
| | - Wanting Li
- Fujian Medical University, 88 Jiaotong Road, Fuzhou 350001, China
| | - Yulin Lin
- Fujian Medical University, 88 Jiaotong Road, Fuzhou 350001, China
| | - Yingping Cao
- Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, 29 Xinquan Road, Fuzhou 350001, China
| | - Ningli Li
- Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Institute of medical sciences, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 280 South Chongqing Road, Shanghai 200025, China
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29
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Kato S, Yokoyama S, Hayakawa Y, Li L, Iwakami Y, Sakurai H, Saiki I. P38 pathway as a key downstream signal of connective tissue growth factor to regulate metastatic potential in non-small-cell lung cancer. Cancer Sci 2016; 107:1416-1421. [PMID: 27403934 PMCID: PMC5084657 DOI: 10.1111/cas.13009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2016] [Revised: 06/22/2016] [Accepted: 07/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Although the secretory matricellular protein connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) has been reported to be related to lung cancer metastasis, the precise mechanism by which CTGF regulates lung cancer metastasis has not been elucidated. In the present study, we show the molecular link between CTGF secretion and the p38 pathway in the invasive and metastatic potential of non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Among three different human NSCLC cell lines (PC‐14, A549, and PC‐9), their in vitro invasiveness was inversely correlated with the level of CTGF secretion. By supplementing or reducing CTGF secretion in NSCLC culture, dysregulation of the invasive and metastatic potential of NSCLC cell lines was largely compensated. By focusing on the protein kinases that are known to be regulated by CTGF, we found that the p38 pathway is a key downstream signal of CTGF to regulate the metastatic potential of NSCLC. Importantly, a negative correlation between CTGF and phosphorylation status of p38 was identified in The Cancer Genome Atlas lung adenocarcinoma dataset. In the context of the clinical importance of our findings, we showed that p38 inhibitor, SB203580, reduced the metastatic potential of NSCLC secreting low levels of CTGF. Collectively, our present findings indicate that the CTGF/p38 axis is a novel therapeutic target of NSCLC metastasis, particularly NSCLC secreting low levels of CTGF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shinichiro Kato
- Division of Pathogenic Biochemistry, Institute of Natural Medicine, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
| | - Satoru Yokoyama
- Division of Pathogenic Biochemistry, Institute of Natural Medicine, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan.
| | - Yoshihiro Hayakawa
- Division of Pathogenic Biochemistry, Institute of Natural Medicine, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
| | - Luhui Li
- Division of Pathogenic Biochemistry, Institute of Natural Medicine, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
| | - Yusuke Iwakami
- Division of Pathogenic Biochemistry, Institute of Natural Medicine, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Sakurai
- Department of Cancer Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
| | - Ikuo Saiki
- Division of Pathogenic Biochemistry, Institute of Natural Medicine, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
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30
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Human pancreatic cancer progression: an anarchy among CCN-siblings. J Cell Commun Signal 2016; 10:207-216. [PMID: 27541366 DOI: 10.1007/s12079-016-0343-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2016] [Accepted: 07/27/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Decades of basic and translational studies have identified the mechanisms by which pancreatic cancer cells use molecular pathways to hijack the normal homeostasis of the pancreas, promoting pancreatic cancer initiation, progression, and metastasis, as well as drug resistance. These molecular pathways were explored to develop targeted therapies to prevent or cure this fatal disease. Regrettably, the studies found that majority of the molecular events that dictate carcinogenic growth in the pancreas are non-actionable (potential non-responder groups of targeted therapy). In this review we discuss exciting discoveries on CCN-siblings that reveal how CCN-family members contribute to the different aspects of the development of pancreatic cancer with special emphasis on therapy.
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Cao YL, Duan Y, Zhu LX, Zhan YN, Min SX, Jin AM. TGF-β1, in association with the increased expression of connective tissue growth factor, induce the hypertrophy of the ligamentum flavum through the p38 MAPK pathway. Int J Mol Med 2016; 38:391-8. [PMID: 27279555 PMCID: PMC4935458 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2016.2631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2015] [Accepted: 05/26/2016] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Hypertrophy of the ligamentum flavum (LF) is one of the key pathomechanisms of lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS). Transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 is abundantly expressed in hypertrophied degenerative LF tissues from LSS. However, the molecular mechanisms underling the association between TGF-β1 and LF hypertrophy have not yet been fully elucidated. In this study, we investigated the important role of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway in the pathogenesis of LSS by analyzing the expression of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) and extracellular matrix (ECM) components (collagen I and collagen III) in TGF-β1-treated LF cells. Cell growth assay revealed that TGF-β1, in association with CTGF, enhanced the the proliferation of LF cells, and we found that TGF-β1 also elevated CTGF expression and subsequently enhanced the mRNA expression of collagen I and collagen III. The increased mRNA expression levels of CTGF, collagen I and collagen III were abolished by p38 inhibitors. Both immunofluorescence imaging and western blot analysis of p38 and p-p38 revealed the increased expression and phosphorylation of p38. Silencing the expression of p38 by siRNA in LF cells decreased the protein expression of p38, p-p38 and CTGF, as well as the mRNA expression of CTGF, collagen I and collagen III. Taken together, our findings indicate that TGF-β1, in association with the increased expression of CTGF, contribute to the homeostasis of the ECM and to the hypertrophy of LF through the p38 MAPK pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Lin Cao
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510282, P.R. China
| | - Yang Duan
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510282, P.R. China
| | - Li-Xin Zhu
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510282, P.R. China
| | - Ye-Nan Zhan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510282, P.R. China
| | - Shao-Xiong Min
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510282, P.R. China
| | - An-Min Jin
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510282, P.R. China
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Alteration of Connective Tissue Growth Factor (CTGF) Expression in Orbital Fibroblasts from Patients with Graves' Ophthalmopathy. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0143514. [PMID: 26599235 PMCID: PMC4657967 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0143514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2015] [Accepted: 11/05/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Graves’ ophthalmopathy (GO) is a disfiguring and sometimes blinding disease, which is characterized by inflammation and swelling of orbital tissues, with fibrosis and adipogenesis being predominant features. The aim of this study is to investigate whether the expression levels of fibrosis-related genes, especially that of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), are altered in orbital fibroblasts of patients with GO. The role of oxidative stress in the regulation of CTGF expression in GO orbital fibroblasts is also examined. By a SYBR Green-based real time quantitative PCR (RT-QPCR), we demonstrated that the mRNA expression levels of fibronectin, apolipoprotein J, and CTGF in cultured orbital fibroblasts from patients with GO were significantly higher than those of age-matched normal controls (p = 0.007, 0.037, and 0.002, respectively). In addition, the protein expression levels of fibronectin, apolipoprotein J, and CTGF analyzed by Western blot were also significantly higher in GO orbital fibroblasts (p = 0.046, 0.032, and 0.008, respectively) as compared with the control. Furthermore, after treatment of orbital fibroblasts with a sub-lethal dose of hydrogen peroxide (200 μM H2O2), we found that the H2O2-induced increase of CTGF expression was more pronounced in the GO orbital fibroblasts as compared with those in normal controls (20% vs. 7%, p = 0.007). Importantly, pre-incubation with antioxidants including N-acetylcysteine (NAC) and vitamin C, respectively, resulted in significant attenuation of the induction of CTGF in GO orbital fibroblasts in response to H2O2 (p = 0.004 and 0.015, respectively). Taken together, we suggest that oxidative stress plays a role in the alteration of the expression of CTGF in GO orbital fibroblasts that may contribute to the pathogenesis and progression of GO. Antioxidants may be used in combination with the therapeutic agents for effective treatment of GO.
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Li J, Ye L, Owen S, Weeks HP, Zhang Z, Jiang WG. Emerging role of CCN family proteins in tumorigenesis and cancer metastasis (Review). Int J Mol Med 2015; 36:1451-63. [PMID: 26498181 PMCID: PMC4678164 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2015.2390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2015] [Accepted: 10/07/2015] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The CCN family of proteins comprises the members CCN1, CCN2, CCN3, CCN4, CCN5 and CCN6. They share four evolutionarily conserved functional domains, and usually interact with various cytokines to elicit different biological functions including cell proliferation, adhesion, invasion, migration, embryonic development, angiogenesis, wound healing, fibrosis and inflammation through a variety of signalling pathways. In the past two decades, emerging functions for the CCN proteins (CCNs) have been identified in various types of cancer. Perturbed expression of CCNs has been observed in a variety of malignancies. The aberrant expression of certain CCNs is associated with disease progression and poor prognosis. Insight into the detailed mechanisms involved in CCN-mediated regulation may be useful in understanding their roles and functions in tumorigenesis and cancer metastasis. In this review, we briefly introduced the functions of CCNs, especially in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Li
- Department of General Surgery, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, P.R. China
| | - Lin Ye
- Cardiff China Medical Research Collaborative, Institute of Cancer and Genetics, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Heath Park, Cardiff, CF14 4XN, UK
| | - Sioned Owen
- Cardiff China Medical Research Collaborative, Institute of Cancer and Genetics, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Heath Park, Cardiff, CF14 4XN, UK
| | - Hoi Ping Weeks
- Cardiff China Medical Research Collaborative, Institute of Cancer and Genetics, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Heath Park, Cardiff, CF14 4XN, UK
| | - Zhongtao Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, P.R. China
| | - Wen G Jiang
- Cardiff China Medical Research Collaborative, Institute of Cancer and Genetics, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Heath Park, Cardiff, CF14 4XN, UK
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Di Y, Zhang Y, Nie Q, Chen X. CCN1/Cyr61-PI3K/AKT signaling promotes retinal neovascularization in oxygen-induced retinopathy. Int J Mol Med 2015; 36:1507-18. [PMID: 26459773 PMCID: PMC4678165 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2015.2371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2015] [Accepted: 10/06/2015] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Retinal neovascularization (RNV) is a characteristic pathological finding of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). Cysteine-rich 61 [Cyr61, also known as CCN family member 1 (CCN1)] has been reported to mediate angiogenesis. The aim of the present study was to investigate the mechanisms of CCN1/Cyr61-phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT signaling in ROP. The contribution of CCN1 to human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) proliferation and apoptosis under hypoxic conditions was determined using a cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) and Annexin V/propidium iodide (PI) staining, respectively, as well as using siRNA targeting CCN1 (CCN1 siRNA). The cells exposed to hypoxia were also treated with the PI3K/AKT inhibitor, LY294002. In addition, mouse pups with oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR) were administered an intravitreal injection of CCN1 siRNA. RNV was assessed by magnesium-activated adenosine diphosphatease (ADPase) staining. RT-qPCR, western blot analysis, immunofluorescence staining and immunohistochemistry were used to detect the distribution and expression of CCN1, PI3K and AKT. Exposure to hypoxia increased the neovascularization clock hour scores (from 1.23±0.49 to 5.60±0.73, P<0.05) and the number of preretinal neovascular cells, as well as the mRNA and protein expression levels of CCN1, PI3K and AKT (all P<0.05). The injection of CCN1 siRNA decreased the neovascularization clock hour scores and the number of preretinal neovascular cells (1.53±0.72 vs. 4.76±1.04; 12.0±2.8 vs. 31.4±2.6, respectively, both P<0.05), as well as the mRNA and protein expression levels of CCN1, PI3K and AKT (protein, −45.3, −22.5 and −28.4%; mRNA, −43.7, −58.7 and −42.9%, respectively, all P<0.05) compared to the administration of scrambled siRNA under hypoxic conditions. Treatment with LY294002 decreased the mRNA and protein expression levels of CCN1 in the cells exposed to hypoxia (both P<0.05). The administration of CCN1 siRNA resulted in less severe neovascularization in the eyes of the the mouse pups with OIR. Thus, out data suggest that CCN1 plays an important role in RNV in ROP, and may thus be a potential target for the prevention and treatment of ROP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Di
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shengjing Affiliated Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110004, P.R. China
| | - Yiou Zhang
- Graduate School, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110122, P.R. China
| | - Qingzhu Nie
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shengjing Affiliated Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110004, P.R. China
| | - Xiaolong Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shengjing Affiliated Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110004, P.R. China
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Krupska I, Bruford EA, Chaqour B. Eyeing the Cyr61/CTGF/NOV (CCN) group of genes in development and diseases: highlights of their structural likenesses and functional dissimilarities. Hum Genomics 2015; 9:24. [PMID: 26395334 PMCID: PMC4579636 DOI: 10.1186/s40246-015-0046-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2015] [Accepted: 09/16/2015] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
“CCN” is an acronym referring to the first letter of each of the first three members of this original group of mammalian functionally and phylogenetically distinct extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins [i.e., cysteine-rich 61 (CYR61), connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), and nephroblastoma-overexpressed (NOV)]. Although “CCN” genes are unlikely to have arisen from a common ancestral gene, their encoded proteins share multimodular structures in which most cysteine residues are strictly conserved in their positions within several structural motifs. The CCN genes can be subdivided into members developmentally indispensable for embryonic viability (e.g., CCN1, 2 and 5), each assuming unique tissue-specific functions, and members not essential for embryonic development (e.g., CCN3, 4 and 6), probably due to a balance of functional redundancy and specialization during evolution. The temporo-spatial regulation of the CCN genes and the structural information contained within the sequences of their encoded proteins reflect diversity in their context and tissue-specific functions. Genetic association studies and experimental anomalies, replicated in various animal models, have shown that altered CCN gene structure or expression is associated with “injury” stimuli—whether mechanical (e.g., trauma, shear stress) or chemical (e.g., ischemia, hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, inflammation). Consequently, increased organ-specific susceptibility to structural damages ensues. These data underscore the critical functions of CCN proteins in the dynamics of tissue repair and regeneration and in the compensatory responses preceding organ failure. A better understanding of the regulation and mode of action of each CCN member will be useful in developing specific gain- or loss-of-function strategies for therapeutic purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Izabela Krupska
- Department of Cell Biology, Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY, 11203, USA.,Department of Ophthalmology, Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY, 11203, USA
| | - Elspeth A Bruford
- HUGO Gene Nomenclature Committee, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, European Bioinformatics Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge, CB10 1SD, UK
| | - Brahim Chaqour
- Department of Cell Biology, Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY, 11203, USA. .,Department of Ophthalmology, Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY, 11203, USA. .,State University of New York (SUNY) Eye Institute Downstate Medical Center, 450 Clarkson Avenue, MSC 5, Brooklyn, NY, 11203, USA.
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Chen CN, Chang CC, Lai HS, Jeng YM, Chen CI, Chang KJ, Lee PH, Lee H. Connective tissue growth factor inhibits gastric cancer peritoneal metastasis by blocking integrin α3β1-dependent adhesion. Gastric Cancer 2015; 18:504-15. [PMID: 24985492 DOI: 10.1007/s10120-014-0400-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2014] [Accepted: 06/11/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) plays important roles in normal and pathological conditions. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of CTGF in peritoneal metastasis as well as the underlying mechanism in gastric cancer progression. METHODS CTGF expression levels for wild-type and stable overexpression clones were determined by Western blotting and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (Q-PCR). Univariate and multivariate analyses, immunohistochemistry, and survival probability analyses were performed on gastric cancer patients. The extracellular matrix components involved in CTGF-regulated adhesion were determined. Recombinant CTGF was added to cells or coinoculated with gastric cancer cells into mice to evaluate its therapeutic potential. RESULTS CTGF overexpression and treatment with the recombinant protein significantly inhibited cell adhesion. In vivo peritoneal metastasis demonstrated that CTGF-stable transfectants markedly decreased the number and size of tumor nodules in the mesentery. Statistical analysis of gastric cancer patient data showed that patients expressing higher CTGF levels had earlier TNM staging and a higher survival probability after the surgery. Integrin α3β1 was the cell adhesion molecule mediating gastric cancer cell adhesion to laminin, and blocking of integrin α3β1 prevented gastric cancer cell adhesion to recombinant CTGF. Coimmunoprecipitation results indicated that CTGF binds to integrin α3. Coinoculation of recombinant CTGF and gastric cancer cell lines in mice showed effective inhibition of peritoneal dissemination. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggested that gastric cancer peritoneal metastasis is mediated through integrin α3β1 binding to laminin, and CTGF effectively blocks the interaction by binding to integrin α3β1, thus demonstrating the therapeutic potential of recombinant CTGF in gastric cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiung-Nien Chen
- Department of Surgery, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan,
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Cheng JC, Chang HM, Fang L, Sun YP, Leung PCK. TGF-β1 Up-Regulates Connective Tissue Growth Factor Expression in Human Granulosa Cells through Smad and ERK1/2 Signaling Pathways. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0126532. [PMID: 25955392 PMCID: PMC4425519 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0126532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2015] [Accepted: 04/03/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), which is also called CCN2, is a secreted matricellular protein. CTGF regulates various important cellular functions by interacting with multiple molecules in the microenvironment. In the ovary, CTGF is mainly expressed in granulosa cells and involved in the regulation of follicular development, ovulation and luteinization. TGF-β1 has been shown to up-regulate CTGF expression in rat and hen granulosa cells. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms of this up-regulation remain undefined. More importantly, whether the stimulatory effect of TGF-β1 on CTGF expression can be observed in human granulosa cells remains unknown. In the present study, our results demonstrated that TGF-β1 treatment up-regulates CTGF expression in both immortalized human granulosa cells and primary human granulosa cells. Using a siRNA-mediated knockdown approach and a pharmacological inhibitor, we demonstrated that the inhibition of Smad2, Smad3 or ERK1/2 attenuates the TGF-β1-induced up-regulation of CTGF. This study provides important insights into the molecular mechanisms that mediate TGF-β1-up-regulated CTGF expression in human granulosa cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jung-Chien Cheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Child & Family Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, V5Z 4H4, Canada
| | - Hsun-Ming Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Child & Family Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, V5Z 4H4, Canada
| | - Lanlan Fang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Child & Family Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, V5Z 4H4, Canada
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Ying-Pu Sun
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Peter C. K. Leung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Child & Family Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, V5Z 4H4, Canada
- * E-mail:
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Kondo S, Al-Hasani H, Hoerder-Suabedissen A, Wang WZ, Molnár Z. Secretory function in subplate neurons during cortical development. Front Neurosci 2015; 9:100. [PMID: 25859180 PMCID: PMC4374456 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2015.00100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2014] [Accepted: 03/10/2015] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Subplate cells are among the first generated neurons in the mammalian cerebral cortex and have been implicated in the establishment of cortical wiring. In rodents some subplate neurons persist into adulthood. Here we would like to highlight several converging findings which suggest a novel secretory function of subplate neurons during cortical development. Throughout the postnatal period in rodents, subplate neurons have highly developed rough endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and are under an ER stress condition. By comparing gene expression between subplate and layer 6, we found that several genes encoding secreted proteins are highly expressed in subplate neurons. One of these secreted proteins, neuroserpin, encoded by the serpini1 gene, is localized to the ER in subplate cells. We propose that subplate might influence cortical circuit formation through a transient secretory function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shinichi Kondo
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford Oxford, UK
| | - Hannah Al-Hasani
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford Oxford, UK
| | | | - Wei Zhi Wang
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford Oxford, UK
| | - Zoltán Molnár
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford Oxford, UK
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Ahmad A, Askari S, Befekadu R, Hahn-Strömberg V. Investigating the association between polymorphisms in connective tissue growth factor and susceptibility to colon carcinoma. Mol Med Rep 2014; 11:2493-503. [PMID: 25502877 PMCID: PMC4337474 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2014.3083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2014] [Accepted: 07/25/2014] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
There have been numerous studies on the gene expression of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) in colorectal cancer, however very few have investigated polymorphisms in this gene. The present study aimed to determine whether single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the CTGF gene are associated with a higher susceptibility to colon cancer and/or an invasive tumor growth pattern. The CTGF gene was genotyped for seven SNPs (rs6918698, rs1931002, rs9493150, rs12526196, rs12527705, rs9399005 and rs12527379) by pyrosequencing. Formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue samples (n=112) from patients diagnosed with colon carcinoma, and an equal number of blood samples from healthy controls, were selected for genomic DNA extraction. The complexity index was measured using images of tumor samples (n=64) stained for cytokeratin-8. The images were analyzed and correlated with the identified CTGF SNPs and clinicopathological parameters of the patients, including age, gender, tumor penetration, lymph node metastasis, systemic metastasis, differentiation and localization of tumor. It was demonstrated that the frequency of the SNP rs6918698 GG genotype was significantly associated (P=0.05) with an increased risk of colon cancer, as compared with the GC and CC genotypes. The other six SNPs (rs1931002, rs9493150, rs12526196, rs12527705, rs9399005 and rs12527379) exhibited no significant difference in the genotype and allele frequencies between patients diagnosed with colon carcinoma and the normal healthy population. A trend was observed between genotype variation at rs6918698 and the complexity index (P=0.052). The complexity index and genotypes for any of the studied SNPs were not significantly correlated with clinical or pathological parameters of the patients. These results indicate that the rs6918698 GG genotype is associated with an increased risk of developing colon carcinoma, and genetic variations at the rs6918698 are associated with the growth pattern of the tumor. The present results may facilitate the identification of potential biomarkers of the disease in addition to drug targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abrar Ahmad
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Örebro University, Örebro 701 81, Sweden
| | - Shlear Askari
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Örebro University, Örebro 701 81, Sweden
| | - Rahel Befekadu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Section for Transfusion Medicine, Örebro University Hospital, Örebro 701 85, Sweden
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Sarkissyan S, Sarkissyan M, Wu Y, Cardenas J, Koeffler HP, Vadgama JV. IGF-1 regulates Cyr61 induced breast cancer cell proliferation and invasion. PLoS One 2014; 9:e103534. [PMID: 25062088 PMCID: PMC4111618 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0103534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2014] [Accepted: 06/30/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Studies from our laboratory and others have shown that cysteine-rich 61 (Cyr61) may be involved in tumor proliferation and invasion. In earlier studies, we demonstrated increased insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-1) is associated with breast tumor formation and poor clinical outcomes. In our current study we have investigated IGF-1 regulation of Cyr61 and whether targeting IGF-1 could inhibit Cyr61 induced tumor growth and proliferation. Methods Several ATCC derived normal and breast cancer cell lines were used in this study: MDA-MB231, BT474, MCF-7, and SKBR3. We also tested cells stably transfected in our laboratory with active Akt1 (pAkt; SKBR3/AA and MCF-7/AA) and dominant negative Akt1 (SKBR3/DN and MCF-7/DN). In addition, we used MCF-7 cells transfected with full length Cyr61 (CYA). Monolayer cultures treated with IGF-1 were analyzed for Cyr61 expression by RT-PCR and immunohistochemical staining. Migration assays and MTT based proliferation assays were used to determine invasive characteristics in response to IGF-1/Cyr61 activation. Results Cells with activated Akt have increased levels of Cyr61. Conversely, cells with inactive Akt have decreased levels of Cyr61. IGF-1 treatment increased Cyr61 expression significantly and cells with high level of Cyr61 demonstrate increased invasiveness and proliferation. Cyr61 overexpression and activation led to decrease in E-cadherin and decrease in FOXO1. Inhibition of the PI3K and MAPK pathways resulted in significant decrease in invasiveness and proliferation, most notably in the PI3K pathway inhibited cells. Conclusion The findings of this study show that IGF-1 upregulates Cyr61 primarily through activation of the Akt-PI3K pathway. IGF-1 induced MAPK plays a partial role. Increase in Cyr61 leads to increase in breast cancer cell growth and invasion. Hence, targeting Cyr61 and associated pathways may offer an opportunity to inhibit IGF-1 mediated Cyr61 induced breast cancer growth and invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suren Sarkissyan
- Division of Cancer Research and Training, Center to Eliminate Cancer Health Disparities, Department of Internal Medicine, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Marianna Sarkissyan
- Division of Cancer Research and Training, Center to Eliminate Cancer Health Disparities, Department of Internal Medicine, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Yanyuan Wu
- Division of Cancer Research and Training, Center to Eliminate Cancer Health Disparities, Department of Internal Medicine, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
- Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Jessica Cardenas
- Division of Cancer Research and Training, Center to Eliminate Cancer Health Disparities, Department of Internal Medicine, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - H. Phillip Koeffler
- Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Jaydutt V. Vadgama
- Division of Cancer Research and Training, Center to Eliminate Cancer Health Disparities, Department of Internal Medicine, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
- Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Chatterjee A, Villarreal G, Rhee DJ. Matricellular proteins in the trabecular meshwork: review and update. J Ocul Pharmacol Ther 2014; 30:447-63. [PMID: 24901502 DOI: 10.1089/jop.2014.0013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract Primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) is a leading cause of blindness worldwide, and intraocular pressure (IOP) is an important modifiable risk factor. IOP is a function of aqueous humor production and aqueous humor outflow, and it is thought that prolonged IOP elevation leads to optic nerve damage over time. Within the trabecular meshwork (TM), the eye's primary drainage system for aqueous humor, matricellular proteins generally allow cells to modulate their attachments with and alter the characteristics of their surrounding extracellular matrix (ECM). It is now well established that ECM turnover in the TM affects outflow facility, and matricellular proteins are emerging as significant players in IOP regulation. The formalized study of matricellular proteins in TM has gained increased attention. Secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine (SPARC), myocilin, connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), and thrombospondin-1 and -2 (TSP-1 and -2) have been localized to the TM, and a growing body of evidence suggests that these matricellular proteins play an important role in IOP regulation and possibly the pathophysiology of POAG. As evidence continues to emerge, these proteins are now seen as potential therapeutic targets. Further study is warranted to assess their utility in treating glaucoma in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayan Chatterjee
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University Hospitals Eye Institute, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine , Cleveland, Ohio
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Winterhager E, Gellhaus A. The role of the CCN family of proteins in female reproduction. Cell Mol Life Sci 2014; 71:2299-311. [PMID: 24448904 PMCID: PMC11113566 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-014-1556-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2013] [Revised: 12/20/2013] [Accepted: 01/02/2014] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
The CCN family of proteins consists of six high homologous matricellular proteins which act predominantly by binding to heparin sulphate proteoglycan and a variety of integrins. Interestingly, CCN proteins are regulated by ovarian steroid hormones and are able to adapt to changes in oxygen concentration, which is a necessary condition for successful implantation. CCN1 is involved in processes of angiogenesis within reproductive systems, thereby potentially contributing to diseases such as endometriosis and disturbed angiogenesis in the placenta and fetus. In the ovary, CCN2 is the key factor for follicular development, ovulation and corpora luteal luteolysis, and its deletion leads to fertility defects. CCN1, CCN2 and CCN3 seem to be regulators for human trophoblast proliferation and migration, but with CCN2 acting as a counterweight. Alterations in the expression of these three proteins could contribute to the shallow invasion properties observed in preeclampsia. Little is known about the role of CCN4-6 in the reproductive organs. The ability of CCN1, CCN2 and CCN3 to interact with numerous receptors enables them to adapt their biological function rapidly to the continuous remodelling of the reproductive organs and in the development of the placenta. The CCN proteins mediate their specific cell physiological function through the receptor type of their binding partner followed by a defined signalling cascade. Because of their partly overlapping expression patterns, they could act in a concert synergistically or in an opposite way within the reproductive organs. Imbalances in their expression levels are correlated to different human reproductive diseases, such as endometriosis and preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elke Winterhager
- Institute of Molecular Biology, University Clinic Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstrasse 55, 45122, Essen, Germany,
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Charrier A, Chen R, Kemper S, Brigstock DR. Regulation of pancreatic inflammation by connective tissue growth factor (CTGF/CCN2). Immunology 2014; 141:564-76. [PMID: 24754049 DOI: 10.1111/imm.12215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatitis is caused by long-term heavy alcohol consumption, which results in injury and death of pancreatic acinar cells (PAC). The PAC play a pivotal role in mediating early inflammatory responses but the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. Treatment of C57BL/6 mice with ethanol and cerulein resulted in increased staining for acinar interleukin- 1b (IL-1b), chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 3 (CCL3), or connective tissue growth factor (CTGF/CCN2) by Day 16 and this was associated with increased infiltration of F4/80-positive macrophages and increased expression of pancreatic CTGF/CCN2 mRNA. Compared with wild-type Swiss Webster mice, ethanol treatment of pan-green fluorescent protein (GFP)-CTGF/CCN2 transgenic mice caused enhanced acinar staining for GFP or CTGF/CCN2 and a significant increase in pancreatic infiltration of F4/80-positive macrophages or NIMP-R14-positive neutrophils. Treatment of primary mouse PAC or the rat AR42J PAC line with ethanol or CTGF/CCN2 resulted in enhanced expression of IL-1b or CCL3. Conditioned medium from CTGF/CCN2-treated AR42J cells induced chemotaxis in NR8383 macrophages and this response was abrogated in a dose dependent manner by addition of BX471, an inhibitor of chemokine (C-C motif) receptor 1. These results reveal that acinar CTGF/CCN2 plays a novel role in alcohol-induced inflammatory processes in the pancreas by increasing infiltration of macrophages and neutrophils and increasing acinar production of inflammatory mediators such as IL-1b or CCL3. The early production of CTGF/CCN2 by PAC to drive inflammation is distinct from its previously reported production by pancreatic stellate cells to drive fibrosis at later stages of pancreatic injury.
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MESH Headings
- Acinar Cells/immunology
- Acinar Cells/metabolism
- Acinar Cells/pathology
- Animals
- Antigens, Differentiation/metabolism
- Biomarkers/metabolism
- Cell Line
- Ceruletide
- Chemokine CCL3/metabolism
- Chemotaxis
- Connective Tissue Growth Factor/genetics
- Connective Tissue Growth Factor/metabolism
- Culture Media, Conditioned/metabolism
- Disease Models, Animal
- Ethanol
- Green Fluorescent Proteins/biosynthesis
- Green Fluorescent Proteins/genetics
- Inflammation Mediators/metabolism
- Interleukin-1beta/metabolism
- Macrophages/immunology
- Macrophages/metabolism
- Male
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Mice, Transgenic
- Neutrophils/immunology
- Neutrophils/metabolism
- Pancreas, Exocrine/immunology
- Pancreas, Exocrine/metabolism
- Pancreas, Exocrine/pathology
- Pancreatitis, Alcoholic/chemically induced
- Pancreatitis, Alcoholic/genetics
- Pancreatitis, Alcoholic/immunology
- Pancreatitis, Alcoholic/metabolism
- Pancreatitis, Alcoholic/pathology
- Pancreatitis, Chronic/chemically induced
- Pancreatitis, Chronic/genetics
- Pancreatitis, Chronic/immunology
- Pancreatitis, Chronic/metabolism
- Pancreatitis, Chronic/pathology
- Primary Cell Culture
- RNA Interference
- RNA, Messenger/metabolism
- Rats
- Receptors, CCR1/metabolism
- Signal Transduction
- Time Factors
- Transfection
- Up-Regulation
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Miyoshi K, Ikebuchi Y, Ishida C, Okamoto K, Murawaki Y. Association between gene polymorphisms of connective tissue growth factor and the progression of chronic liver disease associated with hepatitis C. Intern Med 2014; 53:1461-8. [PMID: 25030555 DOI: 10.2169/internalmedicine.53.1864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Fibrogenic cytokines, such as transforming growth factor-beta 1 play a central role in the progression of liver fibrosis. Recently, functional gene polymorphisms in these cytokines have been identified, and some reports have validated the presence of associations between these polymorphisms and disease progression. Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) is a stimulating factor for fibroblast proliferation and matrix production. This study aimed to examine the relationship between CTGF gene polymorphisms and the progression of hepatitis C virus (HCV)-related chronic liver disease, as well as the incidence and prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). METHODS A review was conducted among 235 HCV patients (117 patients with chronic hepatitis (CH) and 118 patients with liver cirrhosis (LC)). The CTGF gene polymorphism (rs6918698; -945 G/C) was identified according to the chimeric cycling probe method. The rate of liver fibrosis progression was measured using two liver fibrosis prediction formulas, the Forns index and the FibroIndex. All HCC patients were followed regularly every month. RESULTS The frequency of the -945 C allele was higher among the LC patients than the CH patients. Regarding the rate of liver fibrosis progression over five years, C homozygotes tended to exhibit a faster rate than G carriers, although the difference was not significant. Among the LC patients, the C homozygotes demonstrated lower prothrombin times, higher rates of indocyanine green retention and higher Child-Pugh scores than the G carriers. There were no significant tendencies in the genotype distribution, irrespective of the status of HCC. However, the prognosis of HCC was poorer for the C homozygotes than for the G carriers. CONCLUSION A CTGF -945 C homozygote status is a significant risk factor for the progression of HCV-related chronic liver disease, including HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenichi Miyoshi
- Division of Medicine and Clinical Science, Department of Multidisciplinary Internal Medicine, Tottori University School of Medicine, Japan
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Behnes M, Brueckmann M, Lang S, Weiß C, Ahmad-Nejad P, Neumaier M, Borggrefe M, Hoffmann U. Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF/CCN2): diagnostic and prognostic value in acute heart failure. Clin Res Cardiol 2013; 103:107-16. [PMID: 24146089 DOI: 10.1007/s00392-013-0626-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2013] [Accepted: 09/27/2013] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND As a mediator of ECM homeostasis, connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) appears to be involved in adverse structural remodeling processes in the heart. However, the diagnostic and prognostic value of CTGF levels in acute heart failure (AHF) in addition to natriuretic peptide testing has not yet been evaluated. METHODS AND RESULTS A total of 212 patients presenting with acute dyspnea and/or peripheral edema to the Emergency Department were evaluated. CTGF and NT-proBNP plasma levels were measured at the initial presentation. All patients were followed up to 1 and 5 years. The first endpoint tested was the diagnostic non-inferiority of combined CTGF plus NT-proBNP compared to NT-proBNP alone for AHF diagnosis. Afterwards, the additional diagnostic value of CTGF plus NT-proBNP was tested. CTGF levels were higher in NYHA class III/IV and AHA/ACC class C/D patients compared to lower class patients (p = 0.04). Patients with HFREF revealed highest CTGF levels (median 93.3 pg/ml, IQR 18.2-972 pg/ml, n = 48) compared to patients with a normal heart function (i.e., without HFREF and HFPEF) (median 25.9, IQR <1-82.2 pg/ml, n = 37) (p < 0.05), followed by patients with HFPEF (median 82.2 pg/ml, IQR 11.5-447 pg/ml, n = 32) as assessed by echocardiography. Finally, CTGF levels were higher in patients with AHF (median 77.3 pg/ml, IQR 22.5-1012 pg/ml, n = 66) compared to those without (p = 0.002). CTGF plus NT-proBNP was non-inferior to NT-proBNP testing alone for AHF diagnosis (AUC difference 0.01, p > 0.05). CTGF plus NT-proBNP improved the diagnostic capacity for AHF (accuracy 82 %, specificity 83 %, positive predictive value 66 %, net reclassification improvement +0.11) compared to NT-proBNP alone (p = 0.0001). CTGF levels were not able to differentiate prognostic outcomes after 1 and 5 years. CONCLUSIONS Additional CTGF measurements might lead to a better discrimination of higher functional and structural heart failure stages and might identify patients of an increased risk for an acute cardiac decompensation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Behnes
- First Department of Medicine, University Medical Centre Mannheim (UMM), Faculty of Medicine Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167, Mannheim, Germany,
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The up-regulation of cysteine-rich protein 61 induced by transforming growth factor beta enhances osteosarcoma cell migration. Mol Cell Biochem 2013; 384:269-77. [PMID: 24037310 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-013-1807-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2013] [Accepted: 08/30/2013] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Overexpressed cysteine-rich protein 61 (Cyr61) is believed to enhance osteosarcoma (OS) cell metastasis, but the mechanism of Cyr61 overexpression in OS is not clear so far. In this study 33 OS samples were analyzed by immunostaining and focused on two parts: the correlation between overexpression of Cyr61 and OS metastasis; the mechanism of regulating Cyr61 expression in OS. Twenty-five out of 33 cases (75.76 %) with metastasis showed high expression of Cyr61. Furthermore, Cyr61 expression in Saos-2 cells was reduced by siRNA, and lower expression of Cyr61 in Saos-2 cell resulted in a cell migration deficiency and had no effect on cell proliferation. Particularly, Cyr61 expression was significantly increased in Saos-2 cells in response to different dosages of transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β), indicating that the expression of Cyr61 is TGF-β dependent. A transwell assay showed that Saos-2 cells stimulated with TGF-β had a greater capacity for migration than the control cells. The p38 MAPK-specific inhibitor SB203580 was able to reduce Cyr61 expression and inhibit the migration of Saos-2 cells stimulated with TGF-β. These results obtained provide new evidence that overexpressed Cyr61 plays a key role in the metastasis of OS cells and Cyr61 is a potential target downstream of TGF-β/p38 MAPK to regulate cell migration.
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Abstract
CCN family member 2 (CCN2), also known as connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), has been suggested to be an endochondral ossification genetic factor that has been termed “ecogenin”, because in vitro studies revealed that CCN2 promotes the proliferation and differentiation of growth-plate chondrocytes, osteoblasts, and vascular endothelial cells, all of which play important roles in endochondral ossification. In addition to its action toward these three types of cells, CCN2 was recently found to promote the formation of osteoclasts in vitro, which cells play an important role in the replacement of cartilage by bone during endochondral ossification, thus strengthening the “ecogenin” hypothesis. For confirmation of this hypothesis, transgenic mice over-expressing CCN2 in cartilage were generated. The results proved the hypothesis; i.e., the over-expression of CCN2 in cartilage stimulated the proliferation and differentiation of growth-plate chondrocytes, resulting in the promotion of endochondral ossification. In addition to its “ecogenin” action, CCN2 had earlier been shown to promote the differentiation of various cartilage cells including articular cartilage cells. In accordance with these findings, cartilage-specific overexpression of CCN2 in the transgenic mice was shown to protect against the development of osteoarthritic changes in aging articular cartilage. Thus, CCN2 may also play a role as an anti-aging (chondroprotective) factor, stabilizing articular cartilage. CCN2 also had been shown to promote intramembranous ossification, regenerate cartilage and bone, and induce angiogenesis in vivo. For understanding of the molecular mechanism underlying such multifunctional actions, yeast two-hybrid analysis, protein array analysis, solid-phase binding assay, and surface plasmon resonance (SPR) analysis have been used to search for binding partners of CCN2. ECMs such as fibronectin and aggrecan, growth factors including BMPs and FGF2 and their receptors such as FGFR1 and 2 and RANK, as well as CCN family members themselves, were shown to bind to CCN2. Regarding the interaction of CCN2 with some of them, various binding modules in the CCN2 molecule have been identified. Therefore, the numerous biological actions of CCN2 would depend on what kinds of binding partners and what levels of them are present in the microenvironment of different types of cells, as well as on the state of differentiation of these cells. Through this mechanism, CCN2 would orchestrate various signaling pathways, acting as a signal conductor to promote harmonized skeletal growth and regeneration.
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The possible potential therapeutic targets for drug induced gingival overgrowth. Mediators Inflamm 2013; 2013:639468. [PMID: 23690667 PMCID: PMC3652200 DOI: 10.1155/2013/639468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2013] [Accepted: 03/29/2013] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Gingival overgrowth is a side effect of certain medications. The most fibrotic drug-induced lesions develop in response to therapy with phenytoin, the least fibrotic lesions are caused by cyclosporin A, and the intermediate fibrosis occurs in nifedipine-induced gingival overgrowth. Fibrosis is one of the largest groups of diseases for which there is no therapy but is believed to occur because of a persistent tissue repair program. During connective tissue repair, activated gingival fibroblasts synthesize and remodel newly created extracellular matrix. Proteins such as transforming growth factor (TGF), endothelin-1 (ET-1), angiotensin II (Ang II), connective tissue growth factor (CCN2/CTGF), insulin-like growth factor (IGF), and platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) appear to act in a network that contributes to the development of gingival fibrosis. Since inflammation is the prerequisite for gingival overgrowth, mast cells and its protease enzymes also play a vital role in the pathogenesis of gingival fibrosis. Drugs targeting these proteins are currently under consideration as antifibrotic treatments. This review summarizes recent observations concerning the contribution of TGF-β, CTGF, IGF, PDGF, ET-1, Ang II, and mast cell chymase and tryptase enzymes to fibroblast activation in gingival fibrosis and the potential utility of agents blocking these proteins in affecting the outcome of drug-induced gingival overgrowth.
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Moleirinho S, Patrick C, Tilston-Lünel AM, Higginson JR, Angus L, Antkowiak M, Barnett SC, Prystowsky MB, Reynolds PA, Gunn-Moore FJ. Willin, an upstream component of the hippo signaling pathway, orchestrates mammalian peripheral nerve fibroblasts. PLoS One 2013; 8:e60028. [PMID: 23593160 PMCID: PMC3620498 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0060028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2013] [Accepted: 02/22/2013] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Willin/FRMD6 was first identified in the rat sciatic nerve, which is composed of neurons, Schwann cells, and fibroblasts. Willin is an upstream component of the Hippo signaling pathway, which results in the inactivation of the transcriptional co-activator YAP through Ser127 phosphorylation. This in turn suppresses the expression of genes involved in cell growth, proliferation and cancer development ensuring the control of organ size, cell contact inhibition and apoptosis. Here we show that in the mammalian sciatic nerve, Willin is predominantly expressed in fibroblasts and that Willin expression activates the Hippo signaling cascade and induces YAP translocation from the nucleus to the cytoplasm. In addition within these cells, although it inhibits cellular proliferation, Willin expression induces a quicker directional migration towards scratch closure and an increased expression of factors linked to nerve regeneration. These results show that Willin modulates sciatic nerve fibroblast activity indicating that Willin may have a potential role in the regeneration of the peripheral nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susana Moleirinho
- Medical and Biological Sciences Building, School of Medicine, University of St. Andrews, St. Andrews, United Kingdom
- Medical and Biological Sciences Building, School of Biology, University of St. Andrews, St. Andrews, United Kingdom
| | - Calum Patrick
- Medical and Biological Sciences Building, School of Medicine, University of St. Andrews, St. Andrews, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew M. Tilston-Lünel
- Medical and Biological Sciences Building, School of Biology, University of St. Andrews, St. Andrews, United Kingdom
| | - Jennifer R. Higginson
- Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Liselotte Angus
- Medical and Biological Sciences Building, School of Biology, University of St. Andrews, St. Andrews, United Kingdom
| | - Maciej Antkowiak
- Medical and Biological Sciences Building, School of Biology, University of St. Andrews, St. Andrews, United Kingdom
| | - Susan C. Barnett
- Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Michael B. Prystowsky
- Department of Pathology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, United States of America
| | - Paul A. Reynolds
- Medical and Biological Sciences Building, School of Medicine, University of St. Andrews, St. Andrews, United Kingdom
- * E-mail: fjg1@st- andrews.ac.uk (FGM); (PR)
| | - Frank J. Gunn-Moore
- Medical and Biological Sciences Building, School of Biology, University of St. Andrews, St. Andrews, United Kingdom
- * E-mail: fjg1@st- andrews.ac.uk (FGM); (PR)
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Perbal B. CCN proteins: A centralized communication network. J Cell Commun Signal 2013; 7:169-77. [PMID: 23420091 DOI: 10.1007/s12079-013-0193-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2013] [Accepted: 01/29/2013] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The CCN family of proteins includes six members presently known as CCN1, CCN2, CCN3, CCN4, CCN5 and CCN6. These proteins were originally designated CYR61, CTGF, NOV, and WISP-1, WISP-2, WISP-3. Although these proteins share a significant amount of structural features and a partial identity with other large families of regulatory proteins, they exhibit different biological functions. A critical examination of the progress made over the past two decades, since the first CCN proteins were discovered brings me to the conclusion that most of our present knowledge regarding the functions of these proteins was predicted very early after their discovery. In an effort to point out some of the gaps that prevent us to reach a comprehensive view of the functional interactions between CCN proteins, it is necessary to reconsider carefully data that was already published and put aside, either because the scientific community was not ready to accept them, or because they were not fitting with the « consensus » when they were published. This review article points to avenues that were not attracting the attention that they deserved. However, it is quite obvious that the six members of this unique family of tetra-modular proteins must act in concert, either simultaneously or sequentially, on the same sites or at different times in the life of living organisms. A better understanding of the spatio-temporal regulation of CCN proteins expression requires considering the family as such, not as a set of single proteins related only by their name. As proposed in this review, there is enough convincing pieces of evidence, at the present time, in favor of these proteins playing a role in the coordination of multiple signaling pathways, and constituting a Centralized Communication Network. Deciphering the hierarchy of regulatory circuits involved in this complex system is an important challenge for the near future. In this article, I would like to briefly review the concept of a CCN family of proteins and critically examine the progress made over the past 10 years in the understanding of their biological functions and involvement in both normal and pathological processes.
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