1
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Mörsdorf D, Knabl P, Genikhovich G. Highly conserved and extremely evolvable: BMP signalling in secondary axis patterning of Cnidaria and Bilateria. Dev Genes Evol 2024; 234:1-19. [PMID: 38472535 PMCID: PMC11226491 DOI: 10.1007/s00427-024-00714-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
Bilateria encompass the vast majority of the animal phyla. As the name states, they are bilaterally symmetric, that is with a morphologically clear main body axis connecting their anterior and posterior ends, a second axis running between their dorsal and ventral surfaces, and with a left side being roughly a mirror image of their right side. Bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signalling has widely conserved functions in the formation and patterning of the second, dorso-ventral (DV) body axis, albeit to different extents in different bilaterian species. Whilst initial findings in the fruit fly Drosophila and the frog Xenopus highlighted similarities amongst these evolutionarily very distant species, more recent analyses featuring other models revealed considerable diversity in the mechanisms underlying dorsoventral patterning. In fact, as phylogenetic sampling becomes broader, we find that this axis patterning system is so evolvable that even its core components can be deployed differently or lost in different model organisms. In this review, we will try to highlight the diversity of ways by which BMP signalling controls bilaterality in different animals, some of which do not belong to Bilateria. Future research combining functional analyses and modelling is bound to give us some understanding as to where the limits to the extent of the evolvability of BMP-dependent axial patterning may lie.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Mörsdorf
- Dept. Neurosciences and Developmental Biology, University of Vienna, UBB, Djerassiplatz 1, 1030, Vienna, Austria
| | - Paul Knabl
- Dept. Neurosciences and Developmental Biology, University of Vienna, UBB, Djerassiplatz 1, 1030, Vienna, Austria
- Vienna Doctoral School of Ecology and Evolution (VDSEE), University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Grigory Genikhovich
- Dept. Neurosciences and Developmental Biology, University of Vienna, UBB, Djerassiplatz 1, 1030, Vienna, Austria.
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2
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Richardson L, Wilcockson SG, Guglielmi L, Hill CS. Context-dependent TGFβ family signalling in cell fate regulation. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol 2023; 24:876-894. [PMID: 37596501 DOI: 10.1038/s41580-023-00638-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023]
Abstract
The transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ) family are a large group of evolutionarily conserved cytokines whose signalling modulates cell fate decision-making across varying cellular contexts at different stages of life. Here we discuss new findings in early embryos that reveal how, in contrast to our original understanding of morphogen interpretation, robust cell fate specification can originate from a noisy combination of signalling inputs and a broad range of signalling levels. We compare this evidence with novel findings on the roles of TGFβ family signalling in tissue maintenance and homeostasis during juvenile and adult life, spanning the skeletal, haemopoietic and immune systems. From these comparisons, it emerges that in contrast to robust developing systems, relatively small perturbations in TGFβ family signalling have detrimental effects at later stages in life, leading to aberrant cell fate specification and disease, for example in cancer or congenital disorders. Finally, we highlight novel strategies to target and amend dysfunction in signalling and discuss how gleaning knowledge from different fields of biology can help in the development of therapeutics for aberrant TGFβ family signalling in disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise Richardson
- Developmental Signalling Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
| | - Scott G Wilcockson
- Developmental Signalling Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
| | - Luca Guglielmi
- Developmental Signalling Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
- Division of Cell Biology, MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge, UK
| | - Caroline S Hill
- Developmental Signalling Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK.
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3
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Kim MK, Han SH, Park TG, Song SH, Lee JY, Lee YS, Yoo SY, Chi XZ, Kim EG, Jang JW, Lim DS, van Wijnen AJ, Lee JW, Bae SC. The TGFβ→TAK1→LATS→YAP1 Pathway Regulates the Spatiotemporal Dynamics of YAP1. Mol Cells 2023; 46:592-610. [PMID: 37706312 PMCID: PMC10590711 DOI: 10.14348/molcells.2023.0088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The Hippo kinase cascade functions as a central hub that relays input from the "outside world" of the cell and translates it into specific cellular responses by regulating the activity of Yes-associated protein 1 (YAP1). How Hippo translates input from the extracellular signals into specific intracellular responses remains unclear. Here, we show that transforming growth factor β (TGFβ)-activated TAK1 activates LATS1/2, which then phosphorylates YAP1. Phosphorylated YAP1 (p-YAP1) associates with RUNX3, but not with TEAD4, to form a TGFβ-stimulated restriction (R)-point-associated complex which activates target chromatin loci in the nucleus. Soon after, p-YAP1 is exported to the cytoplasm. Attenuation of TGFβ signaling results in re-localization of unphosphorylated YAP1 to the nucleus, where it forms a YAP1/TEAD4/SMAD3/AP1/p300 complex. The TGFβ-stimulated spatiotemporal dynamics of YAP1 are abrogated in many cancer cells. These results identify a new pathway that integrates TGFβ signals and the Hippo pathway (TGFβ→TAK1→LATS1/2→YAP1 cascade) with a novel dynamic nuclear role for p-YAP1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min-Kyu Kim
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine and Institute for Tumour Research, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea
| | - Sang-Hyun Han
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine and Institute for Tumour Research, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea
| | - Tae-Geun Park
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine and Institute for Tumour Research, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea
| | - Soo-Hyun Song
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine and Institute for Tumour Research, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea
| | - Ja-Youl Lee
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine and Institute for Tumour Research, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea
| | - You-Soub Lee
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine and Institute for Tumour Research, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea
| | - Seo-Yeong Yoo
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine and Institute for Tumour Research, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea
| | - Xin-Zi Chi
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine and Institute for Tumour Research, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea
| | - Eung-Gook Kim
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine and Medical Research Center, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea
| | - Ju-Won Jang
- Department of Biomedical Science, Cheongju University, Cheongju 28503, Korea
| | - Dae Sik Lim
- Department of Biological Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon 34141, Korea
| | - Andre J. van Wijnen
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT 05405, USA
| | - Jung-Won Lee
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine and Institute for Tumour Research, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea
| | - Suk-Chul Bae
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine and Institute for Tumour Research, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea
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4
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Baccouche B, Lietuvninkas L, Kazlauskas A. Activin A Limits VEGF-Induced Permeability via VE-PTP. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:8698. [PMID: 37240047 PMCID: PMC10218593 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24108698] [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: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 05/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The clinical success of neutralizing vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) has unequivocally identified VEGF as a driver of retinal edema that underlies a variety of blinding conditions. VEGF is not the only input that is received and integrated by the endothelium. For instance, the permeability of blood vessels is also regulated by the large and ubiquitously expressed transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) family. In this project, we tested the hypothesis that members of the TGF-β family influence the VEGF-mediated control of the endothelial cell barrier. To this end, we compared the effect of bone morphogenetic protein-9 (BMP-9), TGF-β1, and activin A on the VEGF-driven permeability of primary human retinal endothelial cells. While BMP-9 and TGF-β1 had no effect on VEGF-induced permeability, activin A limited the extent to which VEGF relaxed the barrier. This activin A effect was associated with the reduced activation of VEGFR2 and its downstream effectors and an increased expression of vascular endothelial tyrosine phosphatase (VE-PTP). Attenuating the expression or activity of VE-PTP overcame the effect of activin A. Taken together, these observations indicate that the TGF-β superfamily governed VEGF-mediated responsiveness in a ligand-specific manner. Furthermore, activin A suppressed the responsiveness of cells to VEGF, and the underlying mechanism involved the VE-PTP-mediated dephosphorylation of VEGFR2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Basma Baccouche
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Lina Lietuvninkas
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Andrius Kazlauskas
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
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5
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Systematic Bayesian posterior analysis guided by Kullback-Leibler divergence facilitates hypothesis formation. J Theor Biol 2023; 558:111341. [PMID: 36335999 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtbi.2022.111341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Revised: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Bayesian inference produces a posterior distribution for the parameters of a mathematical model that can be used to guide the formation of hypotheses; specifically, the posterior may be searched for evidence of alternative model hypotheses, which serves as a starting point for hypothesis formation and model refinement. Previous approaches to search for this evidence are largely qualitative and unsystematic; further, demonstrations of these approaches typically stop at hypothesis formation, leaving the questions they raise unanswered. Here, we introduce a Kullback-Leibler (KL) divergence-based ranking to expedite Bayesian hypothesis formation and investigate the hypotheses it generates, ultimately generating novel, biologically significant insights. Our approach uses KL divergence to rank parameters by how much information they gain from experimental data. Subsequently, rather than searching all model parameters at random, we use this ranking to prioritize examining the posteriors of the parameters that gained the most information from the data for evidence of alternative model hypotheses. We test our approach with two examples, which showcase the ability of our approach to systematically uncover different types of alternative hypothesis evidence. First, we test our KL divergence ranking on an established example of Bayesian hypothesis formation. Our top-ranked parameter matches the one previously identified to produce alternative hypotheses. In the second example, we apply our ranking in a novel study of a computational model of prolactin-induced JAK2-STAT5 signaling, a pathway that mediates beta cell proliferation. Within the top 3 ranked parameters (out of 33), we find a bimodal posterior revealing two possible ranges for the prolactin receptor degradation rate. We go on to refine the model, incorporating new data and determining which degradation rate is most plausible. Overall, while the effectiveness of our approach depends on having a properly formulated prior and on the form of the posterior distribution, we demonstrate that our approach offers a novel and generalizable quantitative framework for Bayesian hypothesis formation and use it to produce a novel, biologically-significant insight into beta cell signaling.
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6
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The Molecular Mechanisms of Systemic Sclerosis-Associated Lung Fibrosis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032963. [PMID: 36769282 PMCID: PMC9917655 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc), also known as scleroderma, is an autoimmune disorder that affects the connective tissues and has the highest mortality rate among the rheumatic diseases. One of the hallmarks of SSc is fibrosis, which may develop systemically, affecting the skin and virtually any visceral organ in the body. Fibrosis of the lungs leads to interstitial lung disease (ILD), which is currently the leading cause of death in SSc. The identification of effective treatments to stop or reverse lung fibrosis has been the main challenge in reducing SSc mortality and improving patient outcomes and quality of life. Thus, understanding the molecular mechanisms, altered pathways, and their potential interactions in SSc lung fibrosis is key to developing potential therapies. In this review, we discuss the diverse molecular mechanisms involved in SSc-related lung fibrosis to provide insights into the altered homeostasis state inherent to this fatal disease complication.
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7
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Understanding How Cells Probe the World: A Preliminary Step towards Modeling Cell Behavior? Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032266. [PMID: 36768586 PMCID: PMC9916635 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell biologists have long aimed at quantitatively modeling cell function. Recently, the outstanding progress of high-throughput measurement methods and data processing tools has made this a realistic goal. The aim of this paper is twofold: First, to suggest that, while much progress has been done in modeling cell states and transitions, current accounts of environmental cues driving these transitions remain insufficient. There is a need to provide an integrated view of the biochemical, topographical and mechanical information processed by cells to take decisions. It might be rewarding in the near future to try to connect cell environmental cues to physiologically relevant outcomes rather than modeling relationships between these cues and internal signaling networks. The second aim of this paper is to review exogenous signals that are sensed by living cells and significantly influence fate decisions. Indeed, in addition to the composition of the surrounding medium, cells are highly sensitive to the properties of neighboring surfaces, including the spatial organization of anchored molecules and substrate mechanical and topographical properties. These properties should thus be included in models of cell behavior. It is also suggested that attempts at cell modeling could strongly benefit from two research lines: (i) trying to decipher the way cells encode the information they retrieve from environment analysis, and (ii) developing more standardized means of assessing the quality of proposed models, as was done in other research domains such as protein structure prediction.
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8
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Sarma U, Ripka L, Anyaegbunam UA, Legewie S. Modeling Cellular Signaling Variability Based on Single-Cell Data: The TGFβ-SMAD Signaling Pathway. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2634:215-251. [PMID: 37074581 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3008-2_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/20/2023]
Abstract
Nongenetic heterogeneity is key to cellular decisions, as even genetically identical cells respond in very different ways to the same external stimulus, e.g., during cell differentiation or therapeutic treatment of disease. Strong heterogeneity is typically already observed at the level of signaling pathways that are the first sensors of external inputs and transmit information to the nucleus where decisions are made. Since heterogeneity arises from random fluctuations of cellular components, mathematical models are required to fully describe the phenomenon and to understand the dynamics of heterogeneous cell populations. Here, we review the experimental and theoretical literature on cellular signaling heterogeneity, with special focus on the TGFβ/SMAD signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uddipan Sarma
- Institute of Molecular Biology (IMB), Mainz, Germany
| | - Lorenz Ripka
- Institute of Molecular Biology (IMB), Mainz, Germany
- Department of Systems Biology, Institute for Biomedical Genetics, University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Uchenna Alex Anyaegbunam
- Institute of Molecular Biology (IMB), Mainz, Germany
- Department of Systems Biology, Institute for Biomedical Genetics, University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Stefan Legewie
- Institute of Molecular Biology (IMB), Mainz, Germany.
- Department of Systems Biology, Institute for Biomedical Genetics, University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany.
- Stuttgart Research Center for Systems Biology, University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany.
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9
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Frohlich J, Kovacovicova K, Raffaele M, Virglova T, Cizkova E, Kucera J, Bienertova-Vasku J, Wabitsch M, Peyrou M, Bonomini F, Rezzani R, Chaldakov GN, Tonchev AB, Di Rosa M, Blavet N, Hejret V, Vinciguerra M. GDF11 inhibits adipogenesis and improves mature adipocytes metabolic function via WNT/β-catenin and ALK5/SMAD2/3 pathways. Cell Prolif 2022; 55:e13310. [PMID: 35920128 PMCID: PMC9528760 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.13310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Revised: 06/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective GDF11 is a member of the TGF‐β superfamily that was recently implicated as potential “rejuvenating” factor, which can ameliorate metabolic disorders. The main objective of the presented study was to closely characterize the role of GDF11 signaling in the glucose homeostasis and in the differentiation of white adipose tissue. Methods We performed microscopy imaging, biochemical and transcriptomic analyses of adipose tissues of 9 weeks old ob/ob mice and murine and human pre‐adipocyte cell lines. Results Our in vivo experiments employing GDF11 treatment in ob/ob mice showed improved glucose/insulin homeostasis, decreased weight gain and white adipocyte size. Furthermore, GDF11 treatment inhibited adipogenesis in pre‐adipocytes by ALK5‐SMAD2/3 activation in cooperation with the WNT/β‐catenin pathway, whose inhibition resulted in adipogenic differentiation. Lastly, we observed significantly elevated levels of the adipokine hormone adiponectin and increased glucose uptake by mature adipocytes upon GDF11 exposure. Conclusion We show evidence that link GDF11 to adipogenic differentiation, glucose, and insulin homeostasis, which are pointing towards potential beneficial effects of GDF11‐based “anti‐obesity” therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Frohlich
- International Clinical Research Center, St. Anne's University Hospital, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Kristina Kovacovicova
- International Clinical Research Center, St. Anne's University Hospital, Brno, Czech Republic.,Psychogenics Inc, Tarrytown, New York, USA
| | - Marco Raffaele
- International Clinical Research Center, St. Anne's University Hospital, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Tereza Virglova
- International Clinical Research Center, St. Anne's University Hospital, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Eliska Cizkova
- International Clinical Research Center, St. Anne's University Hospital, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Kucera
- Research Center for Toxic Compounds in the Environment (RECETOX), Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Julie Bienertova-Vasku
- Research Center for Toxic Compounds in the Environment (RECETOX), Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic.,Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pathological Physiology, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Wabitsch
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Marion Peyrou
- Departament de Bioquímica i Biomedicina Molecular and Institut de Biomedicina, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red "Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición", Madrid, Spain.,Institut de Recerca Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Francesca Bonomini
- Anatomy and Physiopathology Division, Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy.,Interdepartmental University Center of Research "Adaption and Regeneration of Tissues and Organs-(ARTO)", University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Rita Rezzani
- Anatomy and Physiopathology Division, Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy.,Interdepartmental University Center of Research "Adaption and Regeneration of Tissues and Organs-(ARTO)", University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - George N Chaldakov
- Department of Translational Stem Cell Biology, Research Institute of the Medical University, Varna, Bulgaria.,Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Research Institute of the Medical University, Varna, Bulgaria
| | - Anton B Tonchev
- Department of Translational Stem Cell Biology, Research Institute of the Medical University, Varna, Bulgaria.,Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Research Institute of the Medical University, Varna, Bulgaria
| | - Michelino Di Rosa
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Human Anatomy and Histology Section, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Nicolas Blavet
- CEITEC-Central European Institute of Technology, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Vaclav Hejret
- CEITEC-Central European Institute of Technology, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic.,National Center for Biomolecular Research, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Manlio Vinciguerra
- International Clinical Research Center, St. Anne's University Hospital, Brno, Czech Republic.,Department of Translational Stem Cell Biology, Research Institute of the Medical University, Varna, Bulgaria
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10
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Dynamic Visualization of TGF-β/SMAD3 Transcriptional Responses in Single Living Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14102508. [PMID: 35626109 PMCID: PMC9139966 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14102508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary How a single cytokine can induce a variety of cellular responses in the same cell or in different cells is a longstanding question. Transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) is a prototypical multifunctional cytokine of which biological responses are highly dependent on in a cellular context. TGF-β signals via intracellular SMAD transcription factors, and the duration and intensity of SMAD activation are key determinants for the responses that are elicited by TGF-β. To visualize the TGF-β signaling kinetics, we developed a dynamic TGF-β/SMAD3 transcriptional reporter using a quickly folded and highly unstable green florescent protein. We demonstrate the specificity and sensitivity of this reporter and its wide application to monitor dynamic TGF-β-induced responses in cells cultured on plastic dishes, and in living animals. This tool allows for the analysis of TGF-β signaling at a single living cell level, and allows for the discovery of dynamic TGF-β SMAD- induced transcriptional responses in multi-step biological processes. Abstract Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling is tightly controlled in duration and intensity during embryonic development and in the adult to maintain tissue homeostasis. To visualize the TGF-β/SMAD3 signaling kinetics, we developed a dynamic TGF-β/SMAD3 transcriptional fluorescent reporter using multimerized SMAD3/4 binding elements driving the expression of a quickly folded and highly unstable GFP protein. We demonstrate the specificity and sensitivity of this reporter and its wide application to monitor dynamic TGF-β/SMAD3 transcriptional responses in both 2D and 3D systems in vitro, as well as in vivo, using live-cell and intravital imaging. Using this reporter in B16F10 cells, we observed single cell heterogeneity in response to TGF-β challenge, which can be categorized into early, late, and non-responders. Because of its broad application potential, this reporter allows for new discoveries into how TGF-β/SMAD3-dependent transcriptional dynamics are affected during multistep and reversible biological processes.
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11
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Kulikauskas MR, X S, Bautch VL. The versatility and paradox of BMP signaling in endothelial cell behaviors and blood vessel function. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 79:77. [PMID: 35044529 PMCID: PMC8770421 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-021-04033-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Revised: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Blood vessels expand via sprouting angiogenesis, and this process involves numerous endothelial cell behaviors, such as collective migration, proliferation, cell–cell junction rearrangements, and anastomosis and lumen formation. Subsequently, blood vessels remodel to form a hierarchical network that circulates blood and delivers oxygen and nutrients to tissue. During this time, endothelial cells become quiescent and form a barrier between blood and tissues that regulates transport of liquids and solutes. Bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling regulates both proangiogenic and homeostatic endothelial cell behaviors as blood vessels form and mature. Almost 30 years ago, human pedigrees linked BMP signaling to diseases associated with blood vessel hemorrhage and shunts, and recent work greatly expanded our knowledge of the players and the effects of vascular BMP signaling. Despite these gains, there remain paradoxes and questions, especially with respect to how and where the different and opposing BMP signaling outputs are regulated. This review examines endothelial cell BMP signaling in vitro and in vivo and discusses the paradox of BMP signals that both destabilize and stabilize endothelial cell behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Molly R Kulikauskas
- Curriculum in Cell Biology and Physiology, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Shaka X
- Department of Biology, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Victoria L Bautch
- Curriculum in Cell Biology and Physiology, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.
- Department of Biology, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.
- McAllister Heart Institute, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.
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12
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Coentro JQ, May U, Prince S, Zwaagstra J, Ritvos O, Järvinen TAH, Zeugolis DI. Adapting the Scar-in-a-Jar to Skin Fibrosis and Screening Traditional and Contemporary Anti-Fibrotic Therapies. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2021; 9:756399. [PMID: 34765594 PMCID: PMC8576412 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2021.756399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Skin fibrosis still constitutes an unmet clinical need. Although pharmacological strategies are at the forefront of scientific and technological research and innovation, their clinical translation is hindered by the poor predictive capacity of the currently available in vitro fibrosis models. Indeed, customarily utilised in vitro scarring models are conducted in a low extracellular matrix milieu, which constitutes an oxymoron for the in-hand pathophysiology. Herein, we coupled macromolecular crowding (enhances and accelerates extracellular matrix deposition) with transforming growth factor β1 (TGFβ1; induces trans-differentiation of fibroblasts to myofibroblasts) in human dermal fibroblast cultures to develop a skin fibrosis in vitro model and to screen a range of anti-fibrotic families (corticosteroids, inhibitors of histone deacetylases, inhibitors of collagen crosslinking, inhibitors of TGFβ1 and pleiotropic inhibitors of fibrotic activation). Data obtained demonstrated that macromolecular crowding combined with TGFβ1 significantly enhanced collagen deposition and myofibroblast transformation. Among the anti-fibrotic compounds assessed, trichostatin A (inhibitors of histone deacetylases); serelaxin and pirfenidone (pleiotropic inhibitors of fibrotic activation); and soluble TGFβ receptor trap (inhibitor of TGFβ signalling) resulted in the highest decrease of collagen type I deposition (even higher than triamcinolone acetonide, the gold standard in clinical practice). This study further advocates the potential of macromolecular crowding in the development of in vitro pathophysiology models.
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Affiliation(s)
- João Q Coentro
- Regenerative, Modular and Developmental Engineering Laboratory (REMODEL) and Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) Centre for Research in Medical Devices (CÚRAM), National University of Ireland Galway (NUI Galway), Galway, Ireland
| | - Ulrike May
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Stuart Prince
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - John Zwaagstra
- Human Health Therapeutics Research Centre, National Research Council Canada, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | | | - Tero A H Järvinen
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland.,Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | - Dimitrios I Zeugolis
- Regenerative, Modular and Developmental Engineering Laboratory (REMODEL) and Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) Centre for Research in Medical Devices (CÚRAM), National University of Ireland Galway (NUI Galway), Galway, Ireland.,Regenerative, Modular and Developmental Engineering Laboratory (REMODEL), Charles Institute of Dermatology, Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research and School of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University College Dublin (UCD), Dublin, Ireland
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13
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Galgoczi S, Ruzo A, Markopoulos C, Yoney A, Phan-Everson T, Li S, Haremaki T, Metzger JJ, Etoc F, Brivanlou AH. Huntingtin CAG expansion impairs germ layer patterning in synthetic human 2D gastruloids through polarity defects. Development 2021; 148:272380. [PMID: 34608934 PMCID: PMC8513611 DOI: 10.1242/dev.199513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Huntington's disease (HD) is a fatal neurodegenerative disorder caused by an expansion of the CAG repeats in the huntingtin gene (HTT). Although HD has been shown to have a developmental component, how early during human embryogenesis the HTT-CAG expansion can cause embryonic defects remains unknown. Here, we demonstrate a specific and highly reproducible CAG length-dependent phenotypic signature in a synthetic model for human gastrulation derived from human embryonic stem cells (hESCs). Specifically, we observed a reduction in the extension of the ectodermal compartment that is associated with enhanced activin signaling. Surprisingly, rather than a cell-autonomous effect, tracking the dynamics of TGFβ signaling demonstrated that HTT-CAG expansion perturbs the spatial restriction of activin response. This is due to defects in the apicobasal polarization in the context of the polarized epithelium of the 2D gastruloid, leading to ectopic subcellular localization of TGFβ receptors. This work refines the earliest developmental window for the prodromal phase of HD to the first 2 weeks of human development, as modeled by our 2D gastruloids. Summary: 2D gastruloids of isogenic human embryonic stem cells modeling Huntington's Disease reveal that huntingtin CAG expansion perturbs the spatial restriction of the activin response in the context of the polarized epithelium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Szilvia Galgoczi
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Biology and Molecular Embryology, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Albert Ruzo
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Biology and Molecular Embryology, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Christian Markopoulos
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Biology and Molecular Embryology, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Anna Yoney
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Biology and Molecular Embryology, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA.,Laboratory of condensed matter physics, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Tien Phan-Everson
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Biology and Molecular Embryology, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA.,Laboratory of condensed matter physics, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Shu Li
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Biology and Molecular Embryology, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Tomomi Haremaki
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Biology and Molecular Embryology, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Jakob J Metzger
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Biology and Molecular Embryology, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA.,Laboratory of condensed matter physics, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Fred Etoc
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Biology and Molecular Embryology, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA.,Laboratory of condensed matter physics, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Ali H Brivanlou
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Biology and Molecular Embryology, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA
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14
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Ramachandran A, Mehić M, Wasim L, Malinova D, Gori I, Blaszczyk BK, Carvalho DM, Shore EM, Jones C, Hyvönen M, Tolar P, Hill CS. Pathogenic ACVR1 R206H activation by Activin A-induced receptor clustering and autophosphorylation. EMBO J 2021; 40:e106317. [PMID: 34003511 PMCID: PMC8280795 DOI: 10.15252/embj.2020106317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2020] [Revised: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP) and diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) are debilitating diseases that share causal mutations in ACVR1, a TGF-β family type I receptor. ACVR1R206H is a frequent mutation in both diseases. Pathogenic signaling via the SMAD1/5 pathway is mediated by Activin A, but how the mutation triggers aberrant signaling is not known. We show that ACVR1 is essential for Activin A-mediated SMAD1/5 phosphorylation and is activated by two distinct mechanisms. Wild-type ACVR1 is activated by the Activin type I receptors, ACVR1B/C. In contrast, ACVR1R206H activation does not require upstream kinases, but is predominantly activated via Activin A-dependent receptor clustering, which induces its auto-activation. We use optogenetics and live-imaging approaches to demonstrate Activin A-induced receptor clustering and show it requires the type II receptors ACVR2A/B. Our data provide molecular mechanistic insight into the pathogenesis of FOP and DIPG by linking the causal activating genetic mutation to disrupted signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anassuya Ramachandran
- Developmental Signalling LaboratoryThe Francis Crick InstituteLondonUK
- Present address:
Department of Molecular Medicine and PathologyUniversity of AucklandAucklandNew Zealand
| | - Merima Mehić
- Developmental Signalling LaboratoryThe Francis Crick InstituteLondonUK
| | - Laabiah Wasim
- Immune Receptor Activation LaboratoryThe Francis Crick InstituteLondonUK
| | | | - Ilaria Gori
- Developmental Signalling LaboratoryThe Francis Crick InstituteLondonUK
| | | | - Diana M Carvalho
- Division of Molecular PathologyThe Institute of Cancer ResearchSuttonUK
| | - Eileen M Shore
- Departments of Orthopaedic Surgery and GeneticsPerelman School of MedicineUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPAUSA
| | - Chris Jones
- Division of Molecular PathologyThe Institute of Cancer ResearchSuttonUK
| | - Marko Hyvönen
- Department of BiochemistryUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
| | - Pavel Tolar
- Immune Receptor Activation LaboratoryThe Francis Crick InstituteLondonUK
- Present address:
Division of Infection and ImmunityInstitute of Immunity and TransplantationUniversity CollegeLondonUK
| | - Caroline S Hill
- Developmental Signalling LaboratoryThe Francis Crick InstituteLondonUK
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15
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Chijimatsu R, Miwa S, Okamura G, Miyahara J, Tachibana N, Ishikura H, Higuchi J, Maenohara Y, Tsuji S, Sameshima S, Takagi K, Nakazato K, Kawaguchi K, Yamagami R, Inui H, Taketomi S, Tanaka S, Saito T. Divergence in chondrogenic potential between in vitro and in vivo of adipose- and synovial-stem cells from mouse and human. Stem Cell Res Ther 2021; 12:405. [PMID: 34266496 PMCID: PMC8281654 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-021-02485-5] [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: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Somatic stem cell transplantation has been performed for cartilage injury, but the reparative mechanisms are still conflicting. The chondrogenic potential of stem cells are thought as promising features for cartilage therapy; however, the correlation between their potential for chondrogenesis in vitro and in vivo remains undefined. The purpose of this study was to investigate the intrinsic chondrogenic condition depends on cell types and explore an indicator to select useful stem cells for cartilage regeneration. METHODS The chondrogenic potential of two different stem cell types derived from adipose tissue (ASCs) and synovium (SSCs) of mice and humans was assessed using bone morphogenic protein-2 (BMP2) and transforming growth factor-β1 (TGFβ1). Their in vivo chondrogenic potential was validated through transplantation into a mouse osteochondral defect model. RESULTS All cell types showed apparent chondrogenesis under the combination of BMP2 and TGFβ1 in vitro, as assessed by the formation of proteoglycan- and type 2 collagen (COL2)-rich tissues. However, our results vastly differed with those observed following single stimulation among species and cell types; apparent chondrogenesis of mouse SSCs was observed with supplementation of BMP2 or TGFβ1, whereas chondrogenesis of mouse ASCs and human SSCs was observed with supplementation of BMP2 not TGFβ1. Human ASCs showed no obvious chondrogenesis following single stimulation. Mouse SSCs showed the formation of hyaline-like cartilage which had less fibrous components (COL1/3) with supplementation of TGFβ1. However, human cells developed COL1/3+ tissues with all treatments. Transcriptomic analysis for TGFβ receptors and ligands of cells prior to chondrogenic induction did not indicate their distinct reactivity to the TGFβ1 or BMP2. In the transplanted site in vivo, mouse SSCs formed hyaline-like cartilage (proteoglycan+/COL2+/COL1-/COL3-) but other cell types mainly formed COL1/3-positive fibrous tissues in line with in vitro reactivity to TGFβ1. CONCLUSION Optimal chondrogenic factors driving chondrogenesis from somatic stem cells are intrinsically distinct among cell types and species. Among them, the response to TGFβ1 may possibly represent the fate of stem cells when locally transplanted into cartilage defects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryota Chijimatsu
- Bone and Cartilage Regenerative Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Satoshi Miwa
- Sensory and Motor System Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Junya Miyahara
- Sensory and Motor System Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Naohiro Tachibana
- Sensory and Motor System Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hisatoshi Ishikura
- Sensory and Motor System Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Junya Higuchi
- Sensory and Motor System Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuji Maenohara
- Sensory and Motor System Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Shin Sameshima
- Sensory and Motor System Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kentaro Takagi
- Sensory and Motor System Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Keiu Nakazato
- Sensory and Motor System Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kohei Kawaguchi
- Sensory and Motor System Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ryota Yamagami
- Sensory and Motor System Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Inui
- Sensory and Motor System Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shuji Taketomi
- Sensory and Motor System Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Sakae Tanaka
- Sensory and Motor System Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Taku Saito
- Sensory and Motor System Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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16
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Kostopoulou N, Bellou S, Bagli E, Markou M, Kostaras E, Hyvönen M, Kalaidzidis Y, Papadopoulos A, Chalmantzi V, Kyrkou A, Panopoulou E, Fotsis T, Murphy C. Embryonic stem cells are devoid of macropinocytosis, a trafficking pathway for activin A in differentiated cells. J Cell Sci 2021; 134:jcs246892. [PMID: 34313314 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.246892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2020] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Ligand-receptor complexes formed at the plasma membrane are internalised via various endocytic pathways that influence the ultimate signalling output by regulating the selection of interaction partners by the complex along the trafficking route. We report that, in differentiated cells, activin A-receptor complexes are internalised via clathrin-mediated endocytosis (CME) and macropinocytosis (MP), whereas in human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) internalisation occurs via CME. We further show that hESCs are devoid of MP, which becomes functional upon differentiation towards endothelial cells through mesoderm mediators. Our results reveal, for the first time, that MP is an internalisation route for activin A in differentiated cells, and that MP is not active in hESCs and is induced as cells differentiate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikoleta Kostopoulou
- Foundation for Research & Technology-Hellas (FORTH), Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (IMBB), Department of Biomedical Research, Ioannina, 45110, Greece
| | - Sofia Bellou
- Foundation for Research & Technology-Hellas (FORTH), Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (IMBB), Department of Biomedical Research, Ioannina, 45110, Greece
- Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy Unit, Network of Research Supporting Laboratories, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, 45110, Greece
| | - Eleni Bagli
- Foundation for Research & Technology-Hellas (FORTH), Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (IMBB), Department of Biomedical Research, Ioannina, 45110, Greece
| | - Maria Markou
- Foundation for Research & Technology-Hellas (FORTH), Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (IMBB), Department of Biomedical Research, Ioannina, 45110, Greece
- Laboratory of Biological Chemistry, University of Ioannina Medical School, Ioannina, 45110, Greece
| | - Eleftherios Kostaras
- Foundation for Research & Technology-Hellas (FORTH), Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (IMBB), Department of Biomedical Research, Ioannina, 45110, Greece
- Laboratory of Biological Chemistry, University of Ioannina Medical School, Ioannina, 45110, Greece
| | - Marko Hyvönen
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 1TN, UK
| | - Yiannis Kalaidzidis
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Angelos Papadopoulos
- Foundation for Research & Technology-Hellas (FORTH), Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (IMBB), Department of Biomedical Research, Ioannina, 45110, Greece
- School of Biosciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Varvara Chalmantzi
- Foundation for Research & Technology-Hellas (FORTH), Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (IMBB), Department of Biomedical Research, Ioannina, 45110, Greece
- School of Biosciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Athena Kyrkou
- Foundation for Research & Technology-Hellas (FORTH), Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (IMBB), Department of Biomedical Research, Ioannina, 45110, Greece
| | - Ekaterini Panopoulou
- Laboratory of Biological Chemistry, University of Ioannina Medical School, Ioannina, 45110, Greece
| | - Theodore Fotsis
- Foundation for Research & Technology-Hellas (FORTH), Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (IMBB), Department of Biomedical Research, Ioannina, 45110, Greece
- Laboratory of Biological Chemistry, University of Ioannina Medical School, Ioannina, 45110, Greece
| | - Carol Murphy
- Foundation for Research & Technology-Hellas (FORTH), Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (IMBB), Department of Biomedical Research, Ioannina, 45110, Greece
- School of Biosciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
- Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors, University of Birmingham, A118 Aston Webb, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
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17
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Tam AYY, Horwell AL, Trinder SL, Khan K, Xu S, Ong V, Denton CP, Norman JT, Holmes AM, Bou-Gharios G, Abraham DJ. Selective deletion of connective tissue growth factor attenuates experimentally-induced pulmonary fibrosis and pulmonary arterial hypertension. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2021; 134:105961. [PMID: 33662577 PMCID: PMC8111417 DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2021.105961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Revised: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF, CCN2) is a matricellular protein which plays key roles in normal mammalian development and in tissue homeostasis and repair. In pathological conditions, dysregulated CCN2 has been associated with cancer, cardiovascular disease, and tissue fibrosis. In this study, genetic manipulation of the CCN2 gene was employed to investigate the role of CCN2 expression in vitro and in experimentally-induced models of pulmonary fibrosis and pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Knocking down CCN2 using siRNA reduced expression of pro-fibrotic markers (fibronectin p < 0.01, collagen type I p < 0.05, α-SMA p < 0.0001, TIMP-1 p < 0.05 and IL-6 p < 0.05) in TGF-β-treated lung fibroblasts derived from systemic sclerosis patients. In vivo studies were performed in mice using a conditional gene deletion strategy targeting CCN2 in a fibroblast-specific and time-dependent manner in two models of lung disease. CCN2 deletion significantly reduced pulmonary interstitial scarring and fibrosis following bleomycin-instillation, as assessed by fibrotic scores (wildtype bleomycin 3.733 ± 0.2667 vs CCN2 knockout (KO) bleomycin 4.917 ± 0.3436, p < 0.05) and micro-CT. In the well-established chronic hypoxia/Sugen model of pulmonary hypertension, CCN2 gene deletion resulted in a significant decrease in pulmonary vessel remodelling, less right ventricular hypertrophy and a reduction in the haemodynamic measurements characteristic of PAH (RVSP and RV/LV + S were significantly reduced (p < 0.05) in CCN2 KO compared to WT mice in hypoxic/SU5416 conditions). These results support a prominent role for CCN2 in pulmonary fibrosis and in vessel remodelling associated with PAH. Therefore, therapeutics aimed at blocking CCN2 function are likely to benefit several forms of severe lung disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Y Y Tam
- Centre for Rheumatology and Connective Tissue Disease, Department of Inflammation, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, NW3 2PF, UK.
| | - Amy L Horwell
- Department of Musculoskeletal and Ageing Science, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, L7 8TX, UK
| | - Sarah L Trinder
- Centre for Rheumatology and Connective Tissue Disease, Department of Inflammation, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, NW3 2PF, UK
| | - Korsa Khan
- Centre for Rheumatology and Connective Tissue Disease, Department of Inflammation, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, NW3 2PF, UK
| | - Shiwen Xu
- Centre for Rheumatology and Connective Tissue Disease, Department of Inflammation, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, NW3 2PF, UK
| | - Voon Ong
- Centre for Rheumatology and Connective Tissue Disease, Department of Inflammation, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, NW3 2PF, UK
| | - Christopher P Denton
- Centre for Rheumatology and Connective Tissue Disease, Department of Inflammation, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, NW3 2PF, UK
| | - Jill T Norman
- Department of Renal Medicine, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, NW3 2PF, UK
| | - Alan M Holmes
- Centre for Rheumatology and Connective Tissue Disease, Department of Inflammation, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, NW3 2PF, UK
| | - George Bou-Gharios
- Department of Musculoskeletal and Ageing Science, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, L7 8TX, UK
| | - David J Abraham
- Centre for Rheumatology and Connective Tissue Disease, Department of Inflammation, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, NW3 2PF, UK
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18
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Integration of Nodal and BMP Signaling by Mutual Signaling Effector Antagonism. Cell Rep 2021; 31:107487. [PMID: 32268105 PMCID: PMC7166084 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2020.03.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2019] [Revised: 11/26/2019] [Accepted: 03/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Opposing sources of bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) and Nodal signaling molecules are sufficient to induce the formation of a full axis in zebrafish embryos. To address how these signals orchestrate patterning, we transplant sources of fluorescently tagged Nodal and BMP into zebrafish embryos, robustly inducing the formation of secondary axes. Nodal and BMP signal non-cell-autonomously and form similar protein gradients in this context, but the signaling range of Nodal (pSmad2) is shorter than the BMP range (pSmad5). This yields a localized region of pSmad2 activity around the Nodal source, overlapping with a broad domain of pSmad5 activity across the embryo. Cell fates induced in various regions stereotypically correlate with pSmad2-to-pSmad5 ratios and can even be induced BMP- and Nodal-independently with different ratios of constitutively active Smad2 and Smad5. Strikingly, we find that Smad2 and Smad5 antagonize each other for specific cell fates, providing a mechanism for how cells integrate and discriminate between overlapping signals during development. Nodal induces pSmad at a shorter range than BMP due to slower activation kinetics Different ratios of active Smad2 and Smad5 can induce different embryonic structures Smad2 and Smad5 inhibit each other or act synergistically to induce specific cell fates
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19
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Abdel Mouti M, Pauklin S. TGFB1/INHBA Homodimer/Nodal-SMAD2/3 Signaling Network: A Pivotal Molecular Target in PDAC Treatment. Mol Ther 2021; 29:920-936. [PMID: 33429081 PMCID: PMC7934636 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2021.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2020] [Revised: 10/17/2020] [Accepted: 01/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer remains a grueling disease that is projected to become the second-deadliest cancer in the next decade. Standard treatment of pancreatic cancer is chemotherapy, which mainly targets the differentiated population of tumor cells; however, it paradoxically sets the roots of tumor relapse by the selective enrichment of intrinsically chemoresistant pancreatic cancer stem cells that are equipped with an indefinite capacity for self-renewal and differentiation, resulting in tumor regeneration and an overall anemic response to chemotherapy. Crosstalk between pancreatic tumor cells and the surrounding stromal microenvironment is also involved in the development of chemoresistance by creating a supportive niche, which enhances the stemness features and tumorigenicity of pancreatic cancer cells. In addition, the desmoplastic nature of the tumor-associated stroma acts as a physical barrier, which limits the intratumoral delivery of chemotherapeutics. In this review, we mainly focus on the transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGFB1)/inhibin subunit beta A (INHBA) homodimer/Nodal-SMAD2/3 signaling network in pancreatic cancer as a pivotal central node that regulates multiple key mechanisms involved in the development of chemoresistance, including enhancement of the stem cell-like properties and tumorigenicity of pancreatic cancer cells, mediating cooperative interactions between pancreatic cancer cells and the surrounding stroma, as well as regulating the deposition of extracellular matrix proteins within the tumor microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mai Abdel Mouti
- Botnar Research Centre, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, Headington, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7LD, UK
| | - Siim Pauklin
- Botnar Research Centre, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, Headington, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7LD, UK.
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20
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Hiepen C, Mendez PL, Knaus P. It Takes Two to Tango: Endothelial TGFβ/BMP Signaling Crosstalk with Mechanobiology. Cells 2020; 9:E1965. [PMID: 32858894 PMCID: PMC7564048 DOI: 10.3390/cells9091965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2020] [Revised: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 08/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) are members of the transforming growth factor-beta (TGFβ) superfamily of cytokines. While some ligand members are potent inducers of angiogenesis, others promote vascular homeostasis. However, the precise understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying these functions is still a growing research field. In bone, the tissue in which BMPs were first discovered, crosstalk of TGFβ/BMP signaling with mechanobiology is well understood. Likewise, the endothelium represents a tissue that is constantly exposed to multiple mechanical triggers, such as wall shear stress, elicited by blood flow or strain, and tension from the surrounding cells and to the extracellular matrix. To integrate mechanical stimuli, the cytoskeleton plays a pivotal role in the transduction of these forces in endothelial cells. Importantly, mechanical forces integrate on several levels of the TGFβ/BMP pathway, such as receptors and SMADs, but also global cell-architecture and nuclear chromatin re-organization. Here, we summarize the current literature on crosstalk mechanisms between biochemical cues elicited by TGFβ/BMP growth factors and mechanical cues, as shear stress or matrix stiffness that collectively orchestrate endothelial function. We focus on the different subcellular compartments in which the forces are sensed and integrated into the TGFβ/BMP growth factor signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Petra Knaus
- Knaus-Lab/Signal Transduction, Institute for Chemistry and Biochemistry, Freie Universitaet Berlin, 14195 Berlin, Germany; (C.H.); (P.-L.M.)
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21
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Ries A, Schelch K, Falch D, Pany L, Hoda MA, Grusch M. Activin A: an emerging target for improving cancer treatment? Expert Opin Ther Targets 2020; 24:985-996. [PMID: 32700590 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2020.1799350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Activin A is involved in the regulation of a surprisingly broad number of processes that are relevant for cancer development and treatment; it is implicated in cell autonomous functions and multiple regulatory functions in the tumor microenvironment. AREAS COVERED This article summarizes the current knowledge about activin A in cell growth and death, migration and metastasis, angiogenesis, stemness and drug resistance, regulation of antitumor immunity, and cancer cachexia. We explore the role of activin A as a biomarker and discuss strategies for using it as target for cancer therapy. Literature retrieved from Medline until 25 June 2020 was considered. EXPERT OPINION While many functions of activin A were investigated in preclinical models, there is currently limited experience from clinical trials. Activin A has growth- and migration-promoting effects, contributes to immune evasion and cachexia and is associated with shorter survival in several cancer types. Targeting activin A could offer the chance to simultaneously limit tumor growth and spreading, improve drug response, boost antitumor immune responses and improve cancer-associated or treatment-associated cachexia, bone loss, and anemia. Nevertheless, defining which patients have the highest likelihood of benefiting from these effects is challenging and will require further work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Ries
- Institute of Cancer Research, Department of Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna , Vienna, Austria
| | - Karin Schelch
- Institute of Cancer Research, Department of Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna , Vienna, Austria
| | - David Falch
- Institute of Cancer Research, Department of Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna , Vienna, Austria
| | - Laura Pany
- Institute of Cancer Research, Department of Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna , Vienna, Austria
| | - Mir Alireza Hoda
- Translational Thoracic Oncology Laboratory, Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Medical University of Vienna , Vienna, Austria
| | - Michael Grusch
- Institute of Cancer Research, Department of Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna , Vienna, Austria
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22
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Olsen OE, Hella H, Elsaadi S, Jacobi C, Martinez-Hackert E, Holien T. Activins as Dual Specificity TGF-β Family Molecules: SMAD-Activation via Activin- and BMP-Type 1 Receptors. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10040519. [PMID: 32235336 PMCID: PMC7225989 DOI: 10.3390/biom10040519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Revised: 03/25/2020] [Accepted: 03/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Activins belong to the transforming growth factor (TGF)-β family of multifunctional cytokines and signal via the activin receptors ALK4 or ALK7 to activate the SMAD2/3 pathway. In some cases, activins also signal via the bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) receptor ALK2, causing activation of the SMAD1/5/8 pathway. In this study, we aimed to dissect how activin A and activin B homodimers, and activin AB and AC heterodimers activate the two main SMAD branches. We compared the activin-induced signaling dynamics of ALK4/7-SMAD2/3 and ALK2-SMAD1/5 in a multiple myeloma cell line. Signaling via the ALK2-SMAD1/5 pathway exhibited greater differences between ligands than signaling via ALK4/ALK7-SMAD2/3. Interestingly, activin B and activin AB very potently activated SMAD1/5, resembling the activation commonly seen with BMPs. As SMAD1/5 was also activated by activins in other cell types, we propose that dual specificity is a general mechanism for activin ligands. In addition, we found that the antagonist follistatin inhibited signaling by all the tested activins, whereas the antagonist cerberus specifically inhibited activin B. Taken together, we propose that activins may be considered dual specificity TGF-β family members, critically affecting how activins may be considered and targeted clinically.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oddrun Elise Olsen
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, NTNU – Norwegian University of Science and Technology, 7491 Trondheim, Norway
- Department of Hematology, St. Olav’s University Hospital, 7030 Trondheim, Norway
| | - Hanne Hella
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, NTNU – Norwegian University of Science and Technology, 7491 Trondheim, Norway
| | - Samah Elsaadi
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, NTNU – Norwegian University of Science and Technology, 7491 Trondheim, Norway
| | - Carsten Jacobi
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research Basel, Musculoskeletal Disease Area, Novartis Pharma AG, CH-4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Erik Martinez-Hackert
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Toril Holien
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, NTNU – Norwegian University of Science and Technology, 7491 Trondheim, Norway
- Department of Hematology, St. Olav’s University Hospital, 7030 Trondheim, Norway
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +47-924-21-162
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23
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Kim SK, Henen MA, Hinck AP. Structural biology of betaglycan and endoglin, membrane-bound co-receptors of the TGF-beta family. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2019; 244:1547-1558. [PMID: 31601110 PMCID: PMC6920675 DOI: 10.1177/1535370219881160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Betaglycan and endoglin, membrane-bound co-receptors of the TGF-β family, are required to mediate the signaling of a select subset of TGF-β family ligands, TGF-β2 and InhA, and BMP-9 and BMP-10, respectively. Previous biochemical and biophysical methods suggested alternative modes of ligand binding might be responsible for these co-receptors to selectively recognize and potentiate the functions of their ligands, yet the molecular details were lacking. Recent progress determining structures of betaglycan and endoglin, both alone and as bound to their cognate ligands, is presented herein. The structures reveal relatively minor, but very significant structural differences that lead to entirely different modes of ligand binding. The different modes of binding nonetheless share certain commonalities, such as multivalency, which imparts the co-receptors with very high affinity for their cognate ligands, but at the same time provides a mechanism for release by stepwise binding of the signaling receptors, both of which are essential for their functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sun Kyung Kim
- Department of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh,
Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University California
San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Morkos A Henen
- Department of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh,
Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516,
Egypt
| | - Andrew P Hinck
- Department of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh,
Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
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24
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Economou AD, Hill CS. Temporal dynamics in the formation and interpretation of Nodal and BMP morphogen gradients. Curr Top Dev Biol 2019; 137:363-389. [PMID: 32143749 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ctdb.2019.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
One of the most powerful ideas in developmental biology has been that of the morphogen gradient. In the classical view, a signaling molecule is produced at a local source from where it diffuses, resulting in graded levels across the tissue. This gradient provides positional information, with thresholds in the level of the morphogen determining the position of different cell fates. While experimental studies have uncovered numerous potential morphogens in biological systems, it is becoming increasingly apparent that one important feature, not captured in the simple model, is the role of time in both the formation and interpretation of morphogen gradients. We will focus on two members of the transforming growth factor-β family that are known to play a vital role as morphogens in early vertebrate development: the Nodals and the bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs). Primarily drawing on the early zebrafish embryo, we will show how recent studies have demonstrated the importance of feedback and other interactions that evolve through time, in shaping morphogen gradients. We will further show how rather than simply reading out levels of a morphogen, the duration of ligand exposure can be a crucial determinant of how cells interpret morphogens, in particular through the unfolding of downstream transcriptional events and in their interactions with other pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew D Economou
- Developmental Signalling Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | - Caroline S Hill
- Developmental Signalling Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom.
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25
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Duval N, Vaslin C, Barata TC, Frarma Y, Contremoulins V, Baudin X, Nedelec S, Ribes VC. BMP4 patterns Smad activity and generates stereotyped cell fate organization in spinal organoids. Development 2019; 146:dev.175430. [PMID: 31239243 DOI: 10.1242/dev.175430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2019] [Accepted: 06/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) are secreted regulators of cell fate in several developing tissues. In the embryonic spinal cord, they control the emergence of the neural crest, roof plate and distinct subsets of dorsal interneurons. Although a gradient of BMP activity has been proposed to determine cell type identity in vivo, whether this is sufficient for pattern formation in vitro is unclear. Here, we demonstrate that exposure to BMP4 initiates distinct spatial dynamics of BMP signalling within the self-emerging epithelia of both mouse and human pluripotent stem cell-derived spinal organoids. The pattern of BMP signalling results in the stereotyped spatial arrangement of dorsal neural tube cell types, and concentration, timing and duration of BMP4 exposure modulate these patterns. Moreover, differences in the duration of competence time-windows between mouse and human account for the species-specific tempo of neural differentiation. Together, this study describes efficient methods for generating patterned subsets of dorsal interneurons in spinal organoids and supports the conclusion that graded BMP activity orchestrates the spatial organization of the dorsal neural tube cellular diversity in mouse and human.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathalie Duval
- Institut Jacques Monod, CNRS UMR7592, Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, 75205 Paris Cedex, France.,Institut Pasteur, Department of Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, CNRS URA 2578, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Célia Vaslin
- Inserm, UMR-S 1270, 75005 Paris, France.,Sorbonne Université, Science and Engineering Faculty, 75005 Paris, France.,Institut du Fer à Moulin, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Tiago C Barata
- Institut Jacques Monod, CNRS UMR7592, Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, 75205 Paris Cedex, France
| | - Youcef Frarma
- Institut Jacques Monod, CNRS UMR7592, Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, 75205 Paris Cedex, France
| | - Vincent Contremoulins
- Institut Jacques Monod, CNRS UMR7592, Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, 75205 Paris Cedex, France
| | - Xavier Baudin
- Institut Jacques Monod, CNRS UMR7592, Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, 75205 Paris Cedex, France.,ImagoSeine core facility of Institut Jacques Monod and member of France-BioImaging
| | - Stéphane Nedelec
- Inserm, UMR-S 1270, 75005 Paris, France .,Sorbonne Université, Science and Engineering Faculty, 75005 Paris, France.,Institut du Fer à Moulin, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Vanessa C Ribes
- Institut Jacques Monod, CNRS UMR7592, Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, 75205 Paris Cedex, France
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