1
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Wang X, Wang X, Ma J, Zhang S, Fang W, Xu F, Du J, Liang H, Duan W, Li Z, Liu J. GPR30 Agonist G1 Mitigates Sepsis-Induced Cardiac Dysfunction by Inhibiting ACE2/c-FOS-Mediated Necroptosis in Female Mice. ACS Infect Dis 2024. [PMID: 39377746 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.4c00319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/09/2024]
Abstract
Sepsis is a severe inflammatory syndrome with high mortality and morbidity. Sepsis-induced myocardial dysfunction (SIMD) is a common cause of death in sepsis. The female sex is less susceptible to sepsis-related organ dysfunction, although the underlying mechanism of this sex difference remains unclear. This study explored the role of estrogen receptor G protein-coupled estrogen receptor 30 (GPR30) in septic cardiac dysfunction. Results from the present study indicated that GPR30 activation by the G1 agonist protected female mouse hearts against SIMD exposed to lipopolysaccharides. However, this beneficial effect was absent in female ACE2-knockout mice, as demonstrated by poorer cardiac contractility, myocardial injury, and necroptosis. We also demonstrated that the Stat6 transcription factor induced ace2 transcription by enhancing its promoter activity under GPR30 activation in septic hearts. The adenovirus-mediated inhibition of ACE2 targeting c-FOS expression reversed the deterioration, restored cardiac function, and improved survival in female ACE2-knockout mice. These results demonstrate the essential role of GPR30/STAT6/ACE2/c-FOS-mediated necroptosis in G1-mediated protection and provide novel insight into the pathogenesis of sepsis-related organ damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaowu Wang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, PR China
| | - Xiaoya Wang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, PR China
| | - Jipeng Ma
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, PR China
| | - Shuaishuai Zhang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, PR China
| | - Weiyi Fang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, PR China
- Graduate School, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an 710021, PR China
| | - Fujie Xu
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, PR China
- Graduate School, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an 710021, PR China
| | - Jun Du
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, PR China
- Graduate School, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an 710021, PR China
| | - Hongliang Liang
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
- Stanford Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| | - Weixun Duan
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, PR China
| | - Zilin Li
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, PR China
| | - Jincheng Liu
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, PR China
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2
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Giovannetti A, Lazzari S, Mangoni M, Traversa A, Mazza T, Parisi C, Caputo V. Exploring non-coding genetic variability in ACE2: Functional annotation and in vitro validation of regulatory variants. Gene 2024; 915:148422. [PMID: 38570058 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2024.148422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
The surge in human whole-genome sequencing data has facilitated the study of non-coding region variations, yet understanding their biological significance remains a challenge. We used a computational workflow to assess the regulatory potential of non-coding variants, with a particular focus on the Angiotensin Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE2) gene. This gene is crucial in physiological processes and serves as the entry point for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the virus causing coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19). In our analysis, using data from the gnomAD population database and functional annotation, we identified 17 significant Single Nucleotide Variants (SNVs) in ACE2, particularly in its enhancers, promoters, and 3' untranslated regions (UTRs). We found preliminary evidence supporting the regulatory impact of some of these variants on ACE2 expression. Our detailed examination of two SNVs, rs147718775 and rs140394675, in the ACE2 promoter revealed that these co-occurring SNVs, when mutated, significantly enhance promoter activity, suggesting a possible increase in specific ACE2 isoform expression. This method proves effective in identifying and interpreting impactful non-coding variants, aiding in further studies and enhancing understanding of molecular bases of monogenic and complex traits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnese Giovannetti
- Clinical Genomics Laboratory, Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, Viale Cappuccini, snc, 71013 S. Giovanni Rotondo (FG), Italy.
| | - Sara Lazzari
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena, 324, 00161 Rome, Italy.
| | - Manuel Mangoni
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena, 324, 00161 Rome, Italy; Bioinformatics Laboratory, Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, Viale Cappuccini, snc, 71013 S. Giovanni Rotondo (FG), Italy.
| | - Alice Traversa
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena, 324, 00161 Rome, Italy; Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita, della Salute e delle Professioni Sanitarie, Università degli Studi "Link Campus University", Via del Casale di San Pio V 44, 00165 Roma, Italy.
| | - Tommaso Mazza
- Bioinformatics Laboratory, Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, Viale Cappuccini, snc, 71013 S. Giovanni Rotondo (FG), Italy.
| | - Chiara Parisi
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, CNR-National Research Council, Via Ercole Ramarini, 32, 00015 Monterotondo Scalo (RM), Italy.
| | - Viviana Caputo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena, 324, 00161 Rome, Italy.
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3
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Yang Z, Roth K, Ding J, Kassotis CD, Mor G, Petriello MC. Exposure to a mixture of per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances modulates pulmonary expression of ACE2 and circulating hormones and cytokines. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2022; 456:116284. [PMID: 36270329 PMCID: PMC10325118 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2022.116284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Genetic and environmental factors impact on the interindividual variability of susceptibility to communicable and non-communicable diseases. A class of ubiquitous chemicals, Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have been linked in epidemiological studies to immunosuppression and increased susceptibility to viral infections, but possible mechanisms are not well elucidated. To begin to gain insight into the role of PFAS in susceptibility to one such viral infection, Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), male and female C57BL/6 J mice were exposed to control water or a mixture of 5 PFAS (PFOS, PFOA, PFNA, PFHxS, Genx) for 12 weeks and lungs were isolated for examination of expression of SARS-CoV-2-related receptors Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE2) and others. Secondary analyses included circulating hormones and cytokines which have been shown to directly or indirectly impact on ACE2 expression and severity of viral infections. Changes in mRNA and protein expression were analyzed by RT-qPCR and western blotting and circulating hormones and cytokines were determined by ELISA and MESO QuickPlex. The PFAS mixture decreased Ace2 mRNA 2.5-fold in male mice (p < 0.0001), with no significant change observed in females. In addition, TMPRSS2, ANPEP, ENPEP and DPP4 (other genes implicated in COVID-19 infection) were modulated due to PFAS. Plasma testosterone, but not estrogen were strikingly decreased due to PFAS which corresponded to PFAS-mediated repression of 4 representative pulmonary AR target genes; hemoglobin, beta adult major chain (Hbb-b1), Ferrochelatase (Fech), Collagen Type XIV Alpha 1 Chain (Col14a1), 5'-Aminolevulinate Synthase 2 (Alas2). Finally, PFAS modulated circulating pro and anti-inflammatory mediators including IFN-γ (downregulated 3.0-fold in females; p = 0.0301, 2.1-fold in males; p = 0.0418) and IL-6 (upregulated 5.6-fold in males; p = 0.030, no change in females). In conclusion, our data indicate long term exposure to a PFAS mixture impacts mechanisms related to expression of ACE2 in the lung. This work provides a mechanistic rationale for important future studies of PFAS exposure and subsequent viral infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhao Yang
- Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
| | - Katherine Roth
- Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
| | - Jiahui Ding
- C.S Mott Center for Human Growth and Development, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
| | - Christopher D Kassotis
- Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48202, USA; Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
| | - Gil Mor
- C.S Mott Center for Human Growth and Development, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
| | - Michael C Petriello
- Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48202, USA; Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48202, USA.
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4
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Identification of Transcription Factors Regulating SARS-CoV-2 Tropism Factor Expression by Inferring Cell-Type-Specific Transcriptional Regulatory Networks in Human Lungs. Viruses 2022; 14:v14040837. [PMID: 35458567 PMCID: PMC9026071 DOI: 10.3390/v14040837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 04/02/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the virus that caused the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Though previous studies have suggested that SARS-CoV-2 cellular tropism depends on the host-cell-expressed proteins, whether transcriptional regulation controls SARS-CoV-2 tropism factors in human lung cells remains unclear. In this study, we used computational approaches to identify transcription factors (TFs) regulating SARS-CoV-2 tropism for different types of lung cells. We constructed transcriptional regulatory networks (TRNs) controlling SARS-CoV-2 tropism factors for healthy donors and COVID-19 patients using lung single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) data. Through differential network analysis, we found that the altered regulatory role of TFs in the same cell types of healthy and SARS-CoV-2-infected networks may be partially responsible for differential tropism factor expression. In addition, we identified the TFs with high centralities from each cell type and proposed currently available drugs that target these TFs as potential candidates for the treatment of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Altogether, our work provides valuable cell-type-specific TRN models for understanding the transcriptional regulation and gene expression of SARS-CoV-2 tropism factors.
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5
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Jang KK, Kaczmarek ME, Dallari S, Chen YH, Tada T, Axelrad J, Landau NR, Stapleford KA, Cadwell K. Variable susceptibility of intestinal organoid-derived monolayers to SARS-CoV-2 infection. PLoS Biol 2022; 20:e3001592. [PMID: 35358182 PMCID: PMC9004766 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3001592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Gastrointestinal effects associated with Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) are highly variable for reasons that are not understood. In this study, we used intestinal organoid-derived cultures differentiated from primary human specimens as a model to examine interindividual variability. Infection of intestinal organoids derived from different donors with Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) resulted in orders of magnitude differences in virus replication in small intestinal and colonic organoid-derived monolayers. Susceptibility to infection correlated with angiotensin I converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) expression level and was independent of donor demographic or clinical features. ACE2 transcript levels in cell culture matched the amount of ACE2 in primary tissue, indicating that this feature of the intestinal epithelium is retained in the organoids. Longitudinal transcriptomics of organoid-derived monolayers identified a delayed yet robust interferon signature, the magnitude of which corresponded to the degree of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Interestingly, virus with the Omicron variant spike (S) protein infected the organoids with the highest infectivity, suggesting increased tropism of the virus for intestinal tissue. These results suggest that heterogeneity in SARS-CoV-2 replication in intestinal tissues results from differences in ACE2 levels, which may underlie variable patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyung Ku Jang
- Kimmel Center for Biology and Medicine at the Skirball Institute, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Maria E. Kaczmarek
- Department of Microbiology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Simone Dallari
- Kimmel Center for Biology and Medicine at the Skirball Institute, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Ying-Han Chen
- Kimmel Center for Biology and Medicine at the Skirball Institute, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Takuya Tada
- Department of Microbiology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Jordan Axelrad
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Nathaniel R. Landau
- Department of Microbiology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Kenneth A. Stapleford
- Department of Microbiology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Ken Cadwell
- Kimmel Center for Biology and Medicine at the Skirball Institute, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, United States of America
- Department of Microbiology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, United States of America
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, United States of America
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6
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Jimenez L, Campos Codo A, Sampaio VDS, Oliveira AER, Ferreira LKK, Davanzo GG, de Brito Monteiro L, Victor Virgilio-da-Silva J, Borba MGS, Fabiano de Souza G, Zini N, de Andrade Gandolfi F, Muraro SP, Luiz Proença-Modena J, Val FA, Cardoso Melo G, Monteiro WM, Nogueira ML, Lacerda MVG, Moraes-Vieira PM, Nakaya HI. Acid pH Increases SARS-CoV-2 Infection and the Risk of Death by COVID-19. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:637885. [PMID: 34490283 PMCID: PMC8417536 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.637885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) can infect a broad range of human tissues by using the host receptor angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). Individuals with comorbidities associated with severe COVID-19 display higher levels of ACE2 in the lungs compared to those without comorbidities, and conditions such as cell stress, elevated glucose levels and hypoxia may also increase the expression of ACE2. Here, we showed that patients with Barrett's esophagus (BE) have a higher expression of ACE2 in BE tissues compared to normal squamous esophagus, and that the lower pH associated with BE may drive this increase in expression. Human primary monocytes cultured in reduced pH displayed increased ACE2 expression and higher viral load upon SARS-CoV-2 infection. We also showed in two independent cohorts of 1,357 COVID-19 patients that previous use of proton pump inhibitors is associated with 2- to 3-fold higher risk of death compared to those not using the drugs. Our work suggests that pH has a great influence on SARS-CoV-2 Infection and COVID-19 severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leandro Jimenez
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analyses, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Scientific Platform Pasteur-University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ana Campos Codo
- Department of Genetics, Evolution, Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Biology, University of Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Vanderson de Souza Sampaio
- Fundação de Medicina Tropical Dr. Heitor Vieira Dourado, Manaus, Brazil.,Universidade do Estado do Amazonas, Manaus, Brazil.,Fundação de Vigilância em Saúde do Amazonas, Manaus, Brazil.,Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade Federal do Amazonas, Manaus, Brazil
| | - Antonio E R Oliveira
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analyses, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Lucas Kaoru Kobo Ferreira
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analyses, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Gustavo Gastão Davanzo
- Department of Genetics, Evolution, Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Biology, University of Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Lauar de Brito Monteiro
- Department of Genetics, Evolution, Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Biology, University of Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - João Victor Virgilio-da-Silva
- Department of Genetics, Evolution, Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Biology, University of Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Gabriela Fabiano de Souza
- Department of Genetics, Evolution, Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Biology, University of Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Nathalia Zini
- Faculdade de Medicina de São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Stéfanie Primon Muraro
- Department of Genetics, Evolution, Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Biology, University of Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - José Luiz Proença-Modena
- Department of Genetics, Evolution, Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Biology, University of Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Fernando Almeida Val
- Fundação de Medicina Tropical Dr. Heitor Vieira Dourado, Manaus, Brazil.,Universidade do Estado do Amazonas, Manaus, Brazil.,Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade Federal do Amazonas, Manaus, Brazil
| | - Gisely Cardoso Melo
- Fundação de Medicina Tropical Dr. Heitor Vieira Dourado, Manaus, Brazil.,Universidade do Estado do Amazonas, Manaus, Brazil
| | - Wuelton Marcelo Monteiro
- Fundação de Medicina Tropical Dr. Heitor Vieira Dourado, Manaus, Brazil.,Universidade do Estado do Amazonas, Manaus, Brazil
| | | | - Marcus Vinícius Guimarães Lacerda
- Fundação de Medicina Tropical Dr. Heitor Vieira Dourado, Manaus, Brazil.,Universidade do Estado do Amazonas, Manaus, Brazil.,Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade Federal do Amazonas, Manaus, Brazil
| | - Pedro M Moraes-Vieira
- Department of Genetics, Evolution, Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Biology, University of Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil.,Obesity and Comorbidities Research Center, University of Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil.,Experimental Medicine Research Cluster, University of Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Helder I Nakaya
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analyses, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Scientific Platform Pasteur-University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, Brazil
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7
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Kaneko S, Takasawa K, Asada K, Shinkai N, Bolatkan A, Yamada M, Takahashi S, Machino H, Kobayashi K, Komatsu M, Hamamoto R. Epigenetic Mechanisms Underlying COVID-19 Pathogenesis. Biomedicines 2021; 9:1142. [PMID: 34572329 PMCID: PMC8466119 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9091142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Revised: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
In 2019, a novel severe acute respiratory syndrome called coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), was reported and was declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO) in March 2020. With the advancing development of COVID-19 vaccines and their administration globally, it is expected that COVID-19 will converge in the future; however, the situation remains unpredictable because of a series of reports regarding SARS-CoV-2 variants. Currently, there are still few specific effective treatments for COVID-19, as many unanswered questions remain regarding the pathogenic mechanism of COVID-19. Continued elucidation of COVID-19 pathogenic mechanisms is a matter of global importance. In this regard, recent reports have suggested that epigenetics plays an important role; for instance, the expression of angiotensin I converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor, an important factor in human infection with SARS-CoV-2, is epigenetically regulated; further, DNA methylation status is reported to be unique to patients with COVID-19. In this review, we focus on epigenetic mechanisms to provide a new molecular framework for elucidating the pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2 infection in humans and of COVID-19, along with the possibility of new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syuzo Kaneko
- Division of Medical AI Research and Development, National Cancer Center Research Institute, 5-1-1 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-0045, Japan; (S.K.); (K.T.); (K.A.); (N.S.); (A.B.); (M.Y.); (S.T.); (H.M.); (K.K.); (M.K.)
- Cancer Translational Research Team, RIKEN Center for Advanced Intelligence Project, 1-4-1 Nihonbashi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 103-0027, Japan
| | - Ken Takasawa
- Division of Medical AI Research and Development, National Cancer Center Research Institute, 5-1-1 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-0045, Japan; (S.K.); (K.T.); (K.A.); (N.S.); (A.B.); (M.Y.); (S.T.); (H.M.); (K.K.); (M.K.)
- Cancer Translational Research Team, RIKEN Center for Advanced Intelligence Project, 1-4-1 Nihonbashi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 103-0027, Japan
| | - Ken Asada
- Division of Medical AI Research and Development, National Cancer Center Research Institute, 5-1-1 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-0045, Japan; (S.K.); (K.T.); (K.A.); (N.S.); (A.B.); (M.Y.); (S.T.); (H.M.); (K.K.); (M.K.)
- Cancer Translational Research Team, RIKEN Center for Advanced Intelligence Project, 1-4-1 Nihonbashi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 103-0027, Japan
| | - Norio Shinkai
- Division of Medical AI Research and Development, National Cancer Center Research Institute, 5-1-1 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-0045, Japan; (S.K.); (K.T.); (K.A.); (N.S.); (A.B.); (M.Y.); (S.T.); (H.M.); (K.K.); (M.K.)
- Cancer Translational Research Team, RIKEN Center for Advanced Intelligence Project, 1-4-1 Nihonbashi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 103-0027, Japan
- Department of NCC Cancer Science, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8510, Japan
| | - Amina Bolatkan
- Division of Medical AI Research and Development, National Cancer Center Research Institute, 5-1-1 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-0045, Japan; (S.K.); (K.T.); (K.A.); (N.S.); (A.B.); (M.Y.); (S.T.); (H.M.); (K.K.); (M.K.)
- Cancer Translational Research Team, RIKEN Center for Advanced Intelligence Project, 1-4-1 Nihonbashi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 103-0027, Japan
| | - Masayoshi Yamada
- Division of Medical AI Research and Development, National Cancer Center Research Institute, 5-1-1 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-0045, Japan; (S.K.); (K.T.); (K.A.); (N.S.); (A.B.); (M.Y.); (S.T.); (H.M.); (K.K.); (M.K.)
- National Cancer Center Hospital, Department of Endoscopy, 5-1-1 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-0045, Japan
| | - Satoshi Takahashi
- Division of Medical AI Research and Development, National Cancer Center Research Institute, 5-1-1 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-0045, Japan; (S.K.); (K.T.); (K.A.); (N.S.); (A.B.); (M.Y.); (S.T.); (H.M.); (K.K.); (M.K.)
- Cancer Translational Research Team, RIKEN Center for Advanced Intelligence Project, 1-4-1 Nihonbashi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 103-0027, Japan
| | - Hidenori Machino
- Division of Medical AI Research and Development, National Cancer Center Research Institute, 5-1-1 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-0045, Japan; (S.K.); (K.T.); (K.A.); (N.S.); (A.B.); (M.Y.); (S.T.); (H.M.); (K.K.); (M.K.)
- Cancer Translational Research Team, RIKEN Center for Advanced Intelligence Project, 1-4-1 Nihonbashi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 103-0027, Japan
| | - Kazuma Kobayashi
- Division of Medical AI Research and Development, National Cancer Center Research Institute, 5-1-1 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-0045, Japan; (S.K.); (K.T.); (K.A.); (N.S.); (A.B.); (M.Y.); (S.T.); (H.M.); (K.K.); (M.K.)
- Cancer Translational Research Team, RIKEN Center for Advanced Intelligence Project, 1-4-1 Nihonbashi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 103-0027, Japan
| | - Masaaki Komatsu
- Division of Medical AI Research and Development, National Cancer Center Research Institute, 5-1-1 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-0045, Japan; (S.K.); (K.T.); (K.A.); (N.S.); (A.B.); (M.Y.); (S.T.); (H.M.); (K.K.); (M.K.)
- Cancer Translational Research Team, RIKEN Center for Advanced Intelligence Project, 1-4-1 Nihonbashi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 103-0027, Japan
| | - Ryuji Hamamoto
- Division of Medical AI Research and Development, National Cancer Center Research Institute, 5-1-1 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-0045, Japan; (S.K.); (K.T.); (K.A.); (N.S.); (A.B.); (M.Y.); (S.T.); (H.M.); (K.K.); (M.K.)
- Cancer Translational Research Team, RIKEN Center for Advanced Intelligence Project, 1-4-1 Nihonbashi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 103-0027, Japan
- Department of NCC Cancer Science, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8510, Japan
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8
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Yang J, Perez EA, Hou C, Zhang P, Van Scoyk M, Winn RA, Rong L, Liu J. Identification of the SARS-CoV-2 Entry Receptor ACE2 as a Direct Target for Transcriptional Repression by Miz1. Front Immunol 2021; 12:648815. [PMID: 34305888 PMCID: PMC8292894 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.648815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Multiple lines of evidence have demonstrated that cigarette smoke or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease upregulates angiotensin-converting enzyme 2, the cellular receptor for the entry of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, which predisposes individuals to develop severe Coronavirus disease 2019. The reason for this observation is unknown. We recently reported that the loss of function of Miz1 in the lung epithelium in mice leads to a spontaneous COPD-like phenotype, associated with upregulation of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2. We also reported that cigarette smoke exposure downregulates Miz1 in lung epithelial cells and in mice, and Miz1 is also downregulated in the lungs of COPD patients. Here, we provide further evidence that Miz1 directly binds to and represses the promoter of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 in mouse and human lung epithelial cells. Our data provide a potential molecular mechanism for the upregulation of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 observed in smokers and COPD patients, with implication in severe Coronavirus disease 2019.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Yang
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine and University of Illinois Cancer Center, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Edith A Perez
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine and University of Illinois Cancer Center, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Changchun Hou
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine and University of Illinois Cancer Center, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Pin Zhang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Michelle Van Scoyk
- Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Robert A Winn
- Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Lijun Rong
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Jing Liu
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine and University of Illinois Cancer Center, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
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9
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Cheema PS, Nandi D, Nag A. Exploring the therapeutic potential of forkhead box O for outfoxing COVID-19. Open Biol 2021; 11:210069. [PMID: 34102081 PMCID: PMC8187014 DOI: 10.1098/rsob.210069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has wreaked unprecedented societal havoc worldwide. The infected individuals may present mild to severe symptoms, with nearly 20% of the confirmed patients impaired with significant complications, including multi-organ failure. Acute respiratory distress imposed by SARS-CoV-2 largely results from an aggravated cytokine storm and deregulated immune response. The forkhead box O (FoxO) transcription factors are reported to play a significant role in maintaining normal cell physiology by regulating survival, apoptosis, oxidative stress, development and maturation of T and B lymphocytes, secretion of inflammatory cytokines, etc. We propose a potent anti-inflammatory approach based on activation of the FoxO as an attractive strategy against the novel coronavirus. This regime will be focused on restoring redox and inflammatory homeostasis along with repair of the damaged tissue, activation of lymphocyte effector and memory cells. Repurposing FoxO activators as a means to alleviate the inflammatory burst following SARS-CoV-2 infection can prove immensely valuable in the ongoing pandemic and provide a reliable groundwork for enriching our repertoire of antiviral modalities for any such complication in the future. Altogether, our review highlights the possible efficacy of FoxO activation as a novel arsenal for clinical management of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pradeep Singh Cheema
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Delhi, South Campus, Biotech Building, 2nd Floor, Benito Juarez Road, Dhaula Kuan, New Delhi 110021, India
| | - Deeptashree Nandi
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Delhi, South Campus, Biotech Building, 2nd Floor, Benito Juarez Road, Dhaula Kuan, New Delhi 110021, India
| | - Alo Nag
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Delhi, South Campus, Biotech Building, 2nd Floor, Benito Juarez Road, Dhaula Kuan, New Delhi 110021, India
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10
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Poloznikov AA, Nersisyan SA, Hushpulian DM, Kazakov EH, Tonevitsky AG, Kazakov SV, Vechorko VI, Nikulin SV, Makarova JA, Gazaryan IG. HIF Prolyl Hydroxylase Inhibitors for COVID-19 Treatment: Pros and Cons. Front Pharmacol 2021; 11:621054. [PMID: 33584306 PMCID: PMC7878396 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.621054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2020] [Accepted: 12/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The review analyzes the potential advantages and problems associated with using HIF prolyl hydroxylase inhibitors as a treatment for COVID-19. HIF prolyl hydroxylase inhibitors are known to boost endogenous erythropoietin (Epo) and activate erythropoiesis by stabilizing and activating the hypoxia inducible factor (HIF). Recombinant Epo treatment has anti-inflammatory and healing properties, and thus, very likely, will be beneficial for moderate to severe cases of COVID-19. However, HIF PHD inhibition may have a significantly broader effect, in addition to stimulating the endogenous Epo production. The analysis of HIF target genes reveals that some HIF-targets, such as furin, could play a negative role with respect to viral entry. On the other hand, HIF prolyl hydroxylase inhibitors counteract ferroptosis, the process recently implicated in vessel damage during the later stages of COVID-19. Therefore, HIF prolyl hydroxylase inhibitors may serve as a promising treatment of COVID-19 complications, but they are unlikely to aid in the prevention of the initial stages of infection.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Dmitry M Hushpulian
- P. A. Hertsen Moscow Oncology Research Center, Branch of the National Medical Research Radiological Center, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia.,School of Biomedicine, Far Eastern Federal University, Vladivostok, Russia
| | - Eliot H Kazakov
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, United States
| | | | - Sergey V Kazakov
- Department of Chemistry and Physical Sciences, Dyson College of Arts and Sciences, Pace University, Pleasantville, NY, United States
| | - Valery I Vechorko
- City Clinical Hospital No 15 Named After O. M. Filatov, Moscow, Russia
| | - Sergey V Nikulin
- Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, HSE University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Julia A Makarova
- Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, HSE University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Irina G Gazaryan
- P. A. Hertsen Moscow Oncology Research Center, Branch of the National Medical Research Radiological Center, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia.,Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, United States.,Department of Chemistry and Physical Sciences, Dyson College of Arts and Sciences, Pace University, Pleasantville, NY, United States.,Chemical Enzymology Department, M. V. Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
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11
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Kianmehr A, Faraoni I, Kucuk O, Mahrooz A. Epigenetic alterations and genetic variations of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) as a functional receptor for SARS-CoV-2: potential clinical implications. Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis 2021; 40:1587-1598. [PMID: 33939044 PMCID: PMC8091148 DOI: 10.1007/s10096-021-04264-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Receptor recognition is a crucial step in viral infection and is a critical factor for cell entry and tissue tropism. In several recent studies, angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) has been demonstrated to be the cellular receptor of SARS-CoV-2 as it was previously well known as the receptor of SARS-CoV. SARS-CoV-2 can bind with high affinity to human ACE2 and engages it as an entry receptor. It seems that the genetic, notably epigenetic variations of ACE2 are less known in different populations, indicating the need for its further investigation. These variations have the potential to affect its contribution to the pathogenicity of COVID-19. The contribution of epigenetics in the interindividual variability of ACE2 merits more attention because epigenetic processes can play important roles in ACE2 alterations in various tissues and different people and populations. Analyzing different DNA methylation patterns and microRNAs, contributing to the ACE2 modulation in the lungs will have a high priority. The epigenetic and genetic variations of ACE2 become even more important when considering that some people have mild clinical symptoms despite having COVID-19. The pathogenicity of SARS-CoV-2 infection is complex; therefore, a better understanding of the underlying pathobiology, especially binding the virus to its receptors, could help improve therapeutic and preventive approaches. This review aims to highlight the importance of evaluating both the epigenetic and genetic variations of ACE2 as a receptor for the deadly SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anvarsadat Kianmehr
- Medical Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran ,Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Isabella Faraoni
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00173 Rom, Italy
| | - Omer Kucuk
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University, Atlanta, GA USA
| | - Abdolkarim Mahrooz
- Molecular and Cell Biology Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran ,Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Km 17 Khazarabad Road, Sari, Iran
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12
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Li N, Li Y, Gao H, Li J, Ma X, Liu X, Gong P, Cui X, Li Y. Forkhead-box A3 (FOXA3) represses cancer stemness and partially potentiates chemosensitivity by targeting metastasis-associated in colon cancer 1 (MACC1) signaling pathway in colorectal cancer cells. Curr Cancer Drug Targets 2020; 21:CCDT-EPUB-112119. [PMID: 33292133 DOI: 10.2174/1568009620666201207150632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Revised: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The major challenge to the treatment of advanced colorectal cancer (CRC) is persistent occurrence of chemoresistance. One of the established etiologies is the existence of cancerstem-like cells (CSCs) using which tumors resist to external therapeutic challenges. OBJECTIVE The forkhead-box A3 (FOXA3) is a potent transcription factor that potentiates the acquisition and maintenance of stemness fate in many physiological systems. However, its effect on cancer stemness, particularly treatment, has not been explored in CRC, forming the basis of the current study. METHODS FOXA3 expression in oxaliplatin-resistant CRC tissues and cells was evaluated using RT-qPCR. Effects of FOXA3 manipulation on sensitivity to oxaliplatin were assessed using WST-1, apoptotic ELISA, colony formation and xenograft model. Effects of FOXA3 alteration on CSCs were determined using tumor sphere assay and CD44 staining. Transcriptional regulation of MACC1 by FOXA3 was studied using ChIP, Co-IP and luciferase reporter assay. RESULTS FOXA3 expression was significantly reduced in tumor samples from oxaliplatin-non-responsive patients compared with that in tumor samples from oxaliplatin-sensitive patients. This downregulation of FOXA3 expression predicted a poor post-chemotherapy overall- or disease-free survival in our 117-patient cohort. FOXA3 down-regulation significantly enhanced cell survival and stem-like properties, thus rendering the CRC cells unresponsiveness to oxaliplatin-induced cell death. Mechanistically, the anti-neoplasic effect of FOXA3 was mediated mainly through transcriptional repression of metastasis-associated in colon cancer 1 (MACC1) in oxaliplatin-resistant CRC cells. CONCLUSION Our findings establish FOXA3 as a potent tumor suppressor in CRC, which may disrupt the maintenance of stemness and modulate sensitivity to oxaliplatin by inhibiting the transcription of MACC1 within CRC cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Li
- Cancer center of Suining Central Hospital, Suining 629000. China
| | - Yun Li
- Department of Medical Oncology, First Affiliated Hospital of Medical College of Shihezi University, Shihezi 832000, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. China
| | - Hongbo Gao
- Radionuclide Diagnosis and Treatment Center, Beijing Nuclear Industry Hospital, Beijing 100045. China
| | - Jing Li
- Department of Medical Oncology, First Affiliated Hospital of Medical College of Shihezi University, Shihezi 832000, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. China
| | - Xiaoping Ma
- Department of Medical Oncology, First Affiliated Hospital of Medical College of Shihezi University, Shihezi 832000, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. China
| | - Xiaomei Liu
- Cancer center of Suining Central Hospital, Suining 629000. China
| | - Ping Gong
- Department of Medical Oncology, First Affiliated Hospital of Medical College of Shihezi University, Shihezi 832000, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. China
| | - Xiaobin Cui
- Department of Pathology, Medical College of Shihezi University, Shihezi 832000, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. China
| | - Yong Li
- Department of Radiology, Suining Central Hospital, Suining 629000. China
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13
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Ragia G, Manolopoulos VG. Assessing COVID-19 susceptibility through analysis of the genetic and epigenetic diversity of ACE2-mediated SARS-CoV-2 entry. Pharmacogenomics 2020; 21:1311-1329. [PMID: 33243086 PMCID: PMC7694444 DOI: 10.2217/pgs-2020-0092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
There is considerable variation in disease course among individuals infected with SARS-CoV-2. Many of them do not exhibit any symptoms, while some others proceed to develop COVID-19; however, severity of COVID-19 symptoms greatly differs among individuals. Focusing on the early events related to SARS-CoV-2 entry to cells through the ACE2 pathway, we describe how variability in (epi)genetic factors can conceivably explain variability in disease course. We specifically focus on variations in ACE2, TMPRSS2 and FURIN genes, as central components for SARS-CoV-2 infection, and on other molecules that modulate their expression such as CALM, ADAM-17, AR and ESRs. We propose a genetic classifier for predicting SARS-CoV-2 infectivity potential as a preliminary tool for identifying the at-risk-population. This tool can serve as a dynamic scaffold being updated and adapted to validated (epi)genetic data. Overall, the proposed approach holds potential for better personalization of COVID-19 handling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgia Ragia
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Medical School, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, 68100, Greece
| | - Vangelis G Manolopoulos
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Medical School, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, 68100, Greece.,Clinical Pharmacology & Pharmacogenetics Unit, Academic General Hospital of Alexandroupolis, Alexandroupolis, 68100, Greece
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14
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Barker H, Parkkila S. Bioinformatic characterization of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2, the entry receptor for SARS-CoV-2. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0240647. [PMID: 33112891 PMCID: PMC7592753 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0240647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The World Health Organization declared the COVID-19 epidemic a public health emergency of international concern on March 11th, 2020, and the pandemic is rapidly spreading worldwide. COVID-19 is caused by a novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, which enters human target cells via angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). We used a number of bioinformatics tools to computationally characterize ACE2 by determining its cell-specific expression in trachea, lung, and small intestine, derive its putative functions, and predict transcriptional regulation. The small intestine expressed higher levels of ACE2 mRNA than any other organ. By immunohistochemistry, duodenum, kidney and testis showed strong signals, whereas the signal was weak in the respiratory tract. Single cell RNA-Seq data from trachea indicated positive signals along the respiratory tract in key protective cell types including club, goblet, proliferating, and ciliary epithelial cells; while in lung the ratio of ACE2-expressing cells was low in all cell types (<2.6%), but was highest in vascular endothelial and goblet cells. Gene ontology analysis suggested that, besides its classical role in the renin-angiotensin system, ACE2 may be functionally associated with angiogenesis/blood vessel morphogenesis. Using a novel tool for the prediction of transcription factor binding sites we identified several putative binding sites within two tissue-specific promoters of the ACE2 gene as well as a new putative short form of ACE2. These include several interferon-stimulated response elements sites for STAT1, IRF8, and IRF9. Our results also confirmed that age and gender play no significant role in the regulation of ACE2 mRNA expression in the lung.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harlan Barker
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University and Fimlab Ltd, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | - Seppo Parkkila
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University and Fimlab Ltd, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
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15
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Lee S, Yoon GY, Myoung J, Kim SJ, Ahn DG. Robust and persistent SARS-CoV-2 infection in the human intestinal brush border expressing cells. Emerg Microbes Infect 2020; 9:2169-2179. [PMID: 32969768 PMCID: PMC7580600 DOI: 10.1080/22221751.2020.1827985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Studies on patients with the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) have implicated that the gastrointestinal (GI) tract is a major site of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. We established a human GI tract cell line model highly permissive to SARS-CoV-2. These cells, C2BBe1 intestinal cells with a brush border having high levels of transmembrane serine protease 2 (TMPRSS2), showed robust viral propagation, and could be persistently infected with SARS-CoV-2, supporting the clinical observations of persistent GI infection in COVID-19 patients. Ectopic expression of viral receptors revealed that the levels of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) expression confer permissiveness to SARS-CoV-2 infection, and TMPRSS2 greatly facilitates ACE2-mediated SARS-CoV-2 dissemination. Interestingly, ACE2 but not TMPRSS2 expression was significantly promoted by enterocytic differentiation, suggesting that the state of enterocytic differentiation may serve as a determining factor for viral propagation. Thus, our study sheds light on the pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2 in the GI tract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunhee Lee
- Center for Convergent Research of Emerging Virus Infection, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Gun Young Yoon
- Center for Convergent Research of Emerging Virus Infection, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Jinjong Myoung
- Korea Zoonosis Research Institute & Genetic Engineering Research Institute, Jeonbuk National University, Jeollabuk-do, South Korea
| | - Seong-Jun Kim
- Center for Convergent Research of Emerging Virus Infection, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Dae-Gyun Ahn
- Center for Convergent Research of Emerging Virus Infection, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, Daejeon, South Korea
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16
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Papadopoulos V, Li L, Samplaski M. Why does COVID-19 kill more elderly men than women? Is there a role for testosterone? Andrology 2020; 9:65-72. [PMID: 32681716 PMCID: PMC7404939 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Revised: 07/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Background Recent epidemiological data indicate that there may be a gender predisposition to COVID‐19, with men predisposed to being most severely affected, and older men accounting for most deaths. Objectives Provide a review of the research literature, propose hypotheses, and therapies based on the potential link between testosterone (T) and COVID‐19 induced mortality in elderly men. Materials and Methods A search of publications in academic electronic databases, and government and public health organization web sites on T, aging, inflammation, severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) due to coronavirus (CoV) 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) infection, and COVID‐19 disease state and outcomes was performed. Results The link between T, the immune system, and male aging is well‐established, as is the progressive decline in T levels with aging. In women, T levels drop before menopause and variably increase with advanced age. Elevated IL‐6 is a characteristic biomarker of patients infected with COVID‐19 and has been linked to the development of the acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Thus far, half of the admitted COVID‐19 patients developed ARDS, half of these patients died, and elderly male patients have been more likely to develop ARDS and die. Low T is associated with ARDS. These data suggest that low T levels may exacerbate the severity of COVID‐19 infection in elderly men. It may also stand to reason that normal T levels may offer some protection against COVID‐19. SARS‐CoV‐2 binds to the angiotensin‐converting enzyme 2, present in high levels in the testis. Conclusion At present, it is not known whether low T levels in aging hypogonadal males create a permissive environment for severe responses to COVID‐19 infection or if the virus inhibits androgen formation. Given the preponderance of COVID‐19 related mortality in elderly males, additional testing for gonadal function and treatment with T may be merited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vassilios Papadopoulos
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Lu Li
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Mary Samplaski
- Keck School of Medicine, Institute of Urology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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17
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Gao B, Xie W, Wu X, Wang L, Guo J. Functionally analyzing the important roles of hepatocyte nuclear factor 3 (FoxA) in tumorigenesis. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2020; 1873:188365. [PMID: 32325165 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2020.188365] [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: 03/03/2020] [Revised: 04/14/2020] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Transcriptional factors (TFs) play a central role in governing gene expression under physiological conditions including the processes of embryonic development, metabolic homeostasis and response to extracellular stimuli. Conceivably, the aberrant dysregulations of TFs would dominantly result in various human disorders including tumorigenesis, diabetes and neurodegenerative diseases. Serving as the most evolutionarily reserved TFs, Fox family TFs have been explored to exert distinct biological functions in neoplastic development, by manipulating diverse gene expression. Recently, among the Fox family members, the pilot roles of FoxAs attract more attention due to their functions as both pioneer factor and transcriptional factor in human tumorigenesis, particularly in the sex-dimorphism tumors. Therefore, the pathological roles of FoxAs in tumorigenesis have been well-explored in modulating inflammation, immune response and metabolic homeostasis. In this review, we comprehensively summarize the impressive progression of FoxA functional annotation, clinical relevance, upstream regulators and downstream effectors, as well as valuable animal models, and highlight the potential strategies to target FoxAs for cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bing Gao
- Institute of Precision Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510275, China
| | - Wei Xie
- Institute of Precision Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510275, China
| | - Xueji Wu
- Institute of Precision Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510275, China
| | - Lei Wang
- Institute of Precision Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510275, China
| | - Jianping Guo
- Institute of Precision Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510275, China.
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