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Waghode P, Quadir SS, Choudhary D, Sharma S, Joshi G. Small interfering RNA (siRNA) as a potential gene silencing strategy for diabetes and associated complications: challenges and future perspectives. J Diabetes Metab Disord 2024; 23:365-383. [PMID: 38932822 PMCID: PMC11196550 DOI: 10.1007/s40200-024-01405-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Objective This article critically reviews the recent search on the use of Small Interfering RNA (siRNA) in the process of gene regulation that has been harnessed to silence specific genes in various cell types, including those involved in diabetes complications. Significance Diabetes, a prevalent and severe condition, poses life-threatening risks due to elevated blood glucose levels. It results from inadequate insulin production by the pancreas or ineffective insulin utilization by the body. Recent research suggests siRNA could hold promise in addressing diabetes complications. Methods In this review, we discussed several subjects, including diabetes; its function, and common treatment options. An in-depth analysis of gene silencing method for siRNA and role of siRNA in diabetes, focusing on its impact on glucose homeostasis, diabetic retinopathy, wound healing, diabetic nephropathy and peripheral neuropathy, diabetic foot ulcers, diabetic atherosclerosis, and diabetic cardiomyopathy. Result siRNA-based treatment has the potential to target specific genes without disrupting several other endogenous pathways, which decreases the risk of off-target effects. In addition, siRNA has the capability to provide long-term efficacy with a single dose which will reduce treatment options and enhance patient compliance. Conclusion In the context of diabetic complications, siRNA has been explored as a potential therapeutic tool to modulate the expression of genes involved in various processes associated with diabetes-related issues such as Diabetic Retinopathy, Neuropathy, Nephropathy, wound healing. The use of siRNA in these contexts is still largely experimental, and challenges such as delivery to specific tissues, potential off-target effects, and long-term safety need to be addressed. Additionally, the development of siRNA-based therapies for clinical use in diabetic complications is an active area of research. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40200-024-01405-7.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pranali Waghode
- Shobhaben Pratapbhai Patel School of Pharmacy & Technology Management, SVKM’s NMIMS, deemed to be University, Vile Parle West, 400056 Mumbai, Maharashtra India
| | - Sheikh Shahnawaz Quadir
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Mohanlal Sukhadia University, 313001 Udaipur, Rajasthan India
| | - Deepak Choudhary
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Mohanlal Sukhadia University, 313001 Udaipur, Rajasthan India
| | - Sanjay Sharma
- Shobhaben Pratapbhai Patel School of Pharmacy & Technology Management, SVKM’s NMIMS, deemed to be University, Vile Parle West, 400056 Mumbai, Maharashtra India
| | - Garima Joshi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Mohanlal Sukhadia University, 313001 Udaipur, Rajasthan India
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Wu X, Qin B, Cheng R, Zhou R, Wang X, Zhang Z, Mao X, Xie Z, Chen M, Jiang L, Xie P, Ji J, Zhang W, Yuan S, Hu Z, Liu Q. Angiogenic and Fibrogenic Dual-effect of Gremlin1 on Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy. Int J Biol Sci 2024; 20:897-915. [PMID: 38250154 PMCID: PMC10797694 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.85735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Ocular angiogenic diseases, such as proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR), are often characterized by pathological new vessels and fibrosis formation. Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapy, despite of its efficiency to inhibit new vessels, has limitations, including drug resistance and retinal fibrosis. Here, we identified that Gremlin1, a novel angiogenesis and fibrosis inducer, was secreted from Müller glial cells, and its expression increased in the vitreous fluid from patients with PDR. Mechanistically, Gremlin1 triggered angiogenesis by promoting endothelial-mesenchymal transition via the EGFR/RhoA/ROCK pathway. In addition, Gremlin1 activated microglia to present profibrotic and fibrogenic properties. Further, anti-Gremlin1 antibody inhibited ocular angiogenesis and microglia fibrosis in mouse models. Collectively, Gremlin1 could be a potential therapeutic target in the treatment of ocular angiogenic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinjing Wu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Bing Qin
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Suqian First People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suqian 223800, China
| | - Ruiwen Cheng
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Ru Zhou
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
- Department of Ophthalmology, People's Hospital of Yangzhong City, Yangzhong 212200, China
| | - Xingxing Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Zhengyu Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Xiying Mao
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Zhan Xie
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Mingkang Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Lin Jiang
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Ping Xie
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Jiangdong Ji
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Weiwei Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Songtao Yuan
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Zizhong Hu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Qinghuai Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
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Jiang S, Su H. Cellular crosstalk of mesangial cells and tubular epithelial cells in diabetic kidney disease. Cell Commun Signal 2023; 21:288. [PMID: 37845726 PMCID: PMC10577991 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01323-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is a major cause of end-stage renal disease and imposes a heavy global economic burden; however, little is known about its complicated pathophysiology. Investigating the cellular crosstalk involved in DKD is a promising avenue for gaining a better understanding of its pathogenesis. Nonetheless, the cellular crosstalk of podocytes and endothelial cells in DKD is better understood than that of mesangial cells (MCs) and renal tubular epithelial cells (TECs). As the significance of MCs and TECs in DKD pathophysiology has recently become more apparent, we reviewed the existing literature on the cellular crosstalk of MCs and TECs in the context of DKD to acquire a comprehensive understanding of their cellular communication. Insights into the complicated mechanisms underlying the pathophysiology of DKD would improve its early detection, care, and prognosis. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shan Jiang
- Department of Nephrology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Hua Su
- Department of Nephrology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China.
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Lin HL, Mohamed Shukri FN, Yih ES, Sha GH, Jing GS, Jin GW, Hoong CW, Ying CQ, Panda BP, Candasamy M, Bhattamisra SK. Newer therapeutic approaches towards the management of diabetes mellitus: an update. Panminerva Med 2023; 65:362-375. [PMID: 31663302 DOI: 10.23736/s0031-0808.19.03655-3] [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] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic condition characterized by an elevation of blood glucose levels, resulting from defects in insulin secretion, insulin action, or both. The prevalence of the disease has been rapidly rising all over the globe at an alarming rate. Despite advances in the management of diabetes mellitus, it remains a growing epidemic that has become a significant public health burden due to its high healthcare costs and its complications. There is no cure has yet been found for the disease, however, treatment modalities include insulin and antidiabetic agents along with lifestyle modifications are still the mainstay of therapy for diabetes mellitus. The treatment spectrum for the management of diabetes mellitus has rapidly developed in recent years, with new class of therapeutics and expanded indications. This article focused on the emerging therapeutic approaches other than the conventional pharmacological therapies, which include stem cell therapy, gene therapy, siRNA, nanotechnology and theranostics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heng L Lin
- School of Pharmacy, International Medical University, Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | | | - Eric S Yih
- School of Pharmacy, International Medical University, Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Grace H Sha
- School of Pharmacy, International Medical University, Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Grace S Jing
- School of Pharmacy, International Medical University, Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Gan W Jin
- School of Pharmacy, International Medical University, Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Chow W Hoong
- School of Pharmacy, International Medical University, Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Choong Q Ying
- School of Pharmacy, International Medical University, Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Bibhu P Panda
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, School of Pharmacy, Taylor's University, Lakeside Campus, Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Mayuren Candasamy
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Pharmacy, International Medical University, Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Subrat K Bhattamisra
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Pharmacy, International Medical University, Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia -
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Epigenetic Modulation of Gremlin-1/NOTCH Pathway in Experimental Crescentic Immune-Mediated Glomerulonephritis. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15020121. [PMID: 35215234 PMCID: PMC8876310 DOI: 10.3390/ph15020121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Crescentic glomerulonephritis is a devastating autoimmune disease that without early and properly treatment may rapidly progress to end-stage renal disease and death. Current immunosuppressive treatment provides limited efficacy and an important burden of adverse events. Epigenetic drugs are a source of novel therapeutic tools. Among them, bromodomain and extraterminal domain (BET) inhibitors (iBETs) block the interaction between bromodomains and acetylated proteins, including histones and transcription factors. iBETs have demonstrated protective effects on malignancy, inflammatory disorders and experimental kidney disease. Recently, Gremlin-1 was proposed as a urinary biomarker of disease progression in human anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated crescentic glomerulonephritis. We have now evaluated whether iBETs could regulate Gremlin-1 in experimental anti-glomerular basement membrane nephritis induced by nephrotoxic serum (NTS) in mice, a model resembling human crescentic glomerulonephritis. In NTS-injected mice, the iBET JQ1 inhibited renal Gremlin-1 overexpression and diminished glomerular damage, restoring podocyte numbers. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assay demonstrated BRD4 enrichment of the Grem-1 gene promoter in injured kidneys, consistent with Gremlin-1 epigenetic regulation. Moreover, JQ1 blocked BRD4 binding and inhibited Grem-1 gene transcription. The beneficial effect of iBETs was also mediated by modulation of NOTCH pathway. JQ1 inhibited the gene expression of the NOTCH effectors Hes-1 and Hey-1 in NTS-injured kidneys. Our results further support the role for epigenetic drugs, such as iBETs, in the treatment of rapidly progressive crescentic glomerulonephritis.
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O'Reilly S. Gremlin: a complex molecule regulating wound healing and fibrosis. Cell Mol Life Sci 2021; 78:7917-7923. [PMID: 34731251 PMCID: PMC11071963 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-021-03964-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Revised: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Gremlin-1 is part of the TGF-β superfamily and is a BMP antagonist that blocks BMP signalling to precisely control BMP gradients. Gremlin-1 is primarily involved in organogenesis and limb patterning however, has recently been described as being involved in fibrotic diseases. Initially described as a key factor involved in diabetic kidney fibrosis due to being induced by high glucose, it has now been described as being associated with lung, liver, eye, and skin fibrosis. This suggests that it is a key conserved molecule mediating fibrotic events irrespective of organ. It appears that Gremlin-1 may have effects mediated by BMP-dependent and independent pathways. The aim of this review is to evaluate the role of Gremlin-1 in fibrosis, its mechanisms and if this can be targeted therapeutically in fibrotic diseases, which currently have very limited treatment options and are highly prevalent.
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Tan N, Sun CX, Zhu HJ, Li DY, Huang SG, He SD. Baicalin attenuates adriamycin-induced nephrotic syndrome by regulating fibrosis procession and inflammatory reaction. Genes Genomics 2021; 43:1011-1021. [PMID: 34129194 DOI: 10.1007/s13258-021-01107-x] [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: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Baicalin has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, blood platelet aggregation-inhibiting, free oxygen radical-clearing, and endotoxin-decreasing properties. However, its molecular mechanism involved in the treatment of Adriamycin-induced nephrotic syndrome (NS) is still unclear. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to explore the effects of baicalin on Adriamycin-induced nephrotic syndrome (NS) and to characterize the genes involved in this progression. METHODS We established Adriamycin-induced NS model in 32 rats and used six rats in Sham group. Urinary total protein content and creatinine serum were assessed as physiological indicators. H&E staining was used to observe the pathological changes. We determined gene expression profiles using transcriptome sequencing in the rat kidney tissues from Sham, Adriamycin, and Adriamycin + baicalin groups. KEGG was carried out to analyze the enriched pathways of differentially expressed genes among these groups. RESULTS Baicalin treatment relieved renal injury in NS rats. Expression of 363 genes was significantly different between the Adriamycin and Adriamycin + baicalin M groups. Most of the differentially expressed genes were enriched in pathways involved in epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), fibrosis, apoptosis, and inflammation. CONCLUSIONS Overall, these data suggest that Adriamycin-induced NS can be attenuated by baicalin through the suppression of fibrosis-related genes and inflammatory reactions. Baicalin is a potential drug candidate for the treatment of NS, and the identified genes represent potential therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning Tan
- Traditional Chinese Medicine Department of Rheumatism, Huazhong University of Science and Technology Union Shenzhen Hospital (Nanshan Hospital), 89 Taoyuan Road, Nanshan District, Shenzhen, 518052, Guangdong, China
| | - Chen-Xia Sun
- Traditional Chinese Medicine Department of Rheumatism, Huazhong University of Science and Technology Union Shenzhen Hospital (Nanshan Hospital), 89 Taoyuan Road, Nanshan District, Shenzhen, 518052, Guangdong, China
| | - Hui-Jun Zhu
- Traditional Chinese Medicine Department of Rheumatism, Huazhong University of Science and Technology Union Shenzhen Hospital (Nanshan Hospital), 89 Taoyuan Road, Nanshan District, Shenzhen, 518052, Guangdong, China
| | - De-Yu Li
- Traditional Chinese Medicine Department of Rheumatism, Huazhong University of Science and Technology Union Shenzhen Hospital (Nanshan Hospital), 89 Taoyuan Road, Nanshan District, Shenzhen, 518052, Guangdong, China
| | - Sheng-Guang Huang
- Traditional Chinese Medicine Department of Rheumatism, Huazhong University of Science and Technology Union Shenzhen Hospital (Nanshan Hospital), 89 Taoyuan Road, Nanshan District, Shenzhen, 518052, Guangdong, China
| | - Shou-Di He
- Traditional Chinese Medicine Department of Rheumatism, Huazhong University of Science and Technology Union Shenzhen Hospital (Nanshan Hospital), 89 Taoyuan Road, Nanshan District, Shenzhen, 518052, Guangdong, China.
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8
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Li T, Huang L, Yang M. Lipid-based Vehicles for siRNA Delivery in Biomedical Field. Curr Pharm Biotechnol 2020; 21:3-22. [PMID: 31549951 DOI: 10.2174/1389201020666190924164152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2019] [Revised: 04/04/2019] [Accepted: 08/20/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Genetic drugs have aroused much attention in the past twenty years. RNA interference (RNAi) offers novel insights into discovering potential gene functions and therapies targeting genetic diseases. Small interference RNA (siRNA), typically 21-23 nucleotides in length, can specifically degrade complementary mRNA. However, targeted delivery and controlled release of siRNA remain a great challenge. METHODS Different types of lipid-based delivery vehicles have been synthesized, such as liposomes, lipidoids, micelles, lipoplexes and lipid nanoparticles. These carriers commonly have a core-shell structure. For active targeting, ligands may be conjugated to the surface of lipid particles. RESULTS Lipid-based drug delivery vehicles can be utilized in anti-viral or anti-tumor therapies. They can also be used to tackle genetic diseases or discover novel druggable genes. CONCLUSION In this review, the structures of lipid-based vehicles and possible surface modifications are described, and applications of delivery vehicles in biomedical field are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianzhong Li
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Linfeng Huang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Mengsu Yang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China.,Key Laboratory of Biochip Technology, Biotech and Health Centre, Shenzhen Research Institute of City University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China
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VEGFR2 Blockade Improves Renal Damage in an Experimental Model of Type 2 Diabetic Nephropathy. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9020302. [PMID: 31973092 PMCID: PMC7074274 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9020302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2019] [Revised: 01/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The absence of optimal treatments for Diabetic Nephropathy (DN) highlights the importance of the search for novel therapeutic targets. The vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2) pathway is activated in experimental and human DN, but the effects of its blockade in experimental models of DN is still controversial. Here, we test the effects of a therapeutic anti-VEGFR2 treatment, using a VEGFR2 kinase inhibitor, on the progression of renal damage in the BTBR ob/ob (leptin deficiency mutation) mice. This experimental diabetic model develops histological characteristics mimicking the key features of advanced human DN. A VEGFR2 pathway-activation blockade using the VEGFR2 kinase inhibitor SU5416, starting after kidney disease development, improves renal function, glomerular damage (mesangial matrix expansion and basement membrane thickening), tubulointerstitial inflammation and tubular atrophy, compared to untreated diabetic mice. The downstream mechanisms involved in these beneficial effects of VEGFR2 blockade include gene expression restoration of podocyte markers and downregulation of renal injury biomarkers and pro-inflammatory mediators. Several ligands can activate VEGFR2, including the canonical ligands VEGFs and GREMLIN. Activation of a GREMLIN/VEGFR2 pathway, but not other ligands, is correlated with renal damage progression in BTBR ob/ob diabetic mice. RNA sequencing analysis of GREMLIN-regulated genes confirm the modulation of proinflammatory genes and related-molecular pathways. Overall, these data show that a GREMLIN/VEGFR2 pathway activation is involved in diabetic kidney disease and could potentially be a novel therapeutic target in this clinical condition.
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Ma B, Jing R, Liu J, Qi T, Pei C. Gremlin is a potential target for posterior capsular opacification. Cell Cycle 2019; 18:1714-1726. [PMID: 31234714 DOI: 10.1080/15384101.2019.1632125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: The present study was conducted to determine the role of gremlin during the development of posterior capsular opacification (PCO) via in vitro and in vivo experiments. Methods: The activation, roles and relationships of the BMPs/Smad1/5, MAPK, FAK and AKT signaling pathways in human lens epithelial cells (HLECs) after gremlin induction were detected by western blotting and real-time PCR. Wound-healing, transwell, capsular bag models and rat PCO models assays were used to test the effects of gremlin on HLECs' migration, proliferation, EMT-specific protein α-smooth muscle actin(α-SMA)and development of PCO in rats. Results: Our data showed that knockdown of the gremlin inhibited the development of PCO and reduced expression of α-SMA in rats. While gremlin did not alter the migration of HLECs, it increased the expression of p-ERK and p-AKT. Knockout of Smad2 or Smad3 inhibited the expression of p-ERK and p-AKT proteins induced by gremlin. Gremlin also reduced BMP4-induced expression of the p-Smad1/5 protein. Finally, knockout of Smad1/5 increased gremlin-induced expression of α-SMA, fibronectin and type I collagen (COL-1) in HLECs. Conclusion: These results suggested that gremlin contributed to the development of PCO by promoting LEC proliferation, activation of TGF-β/Smad, ERK and AKT signaling and inhibition of BMPs/Smad1/5 signaling. Furthermore, inhibiting gremlin effectively impaired both PCO development in rats and EMT in the lens capsule. Thus, our data suggest that gremlin might be a potential target for PCO.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Ma
- a Department of Ophthalmology , The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University , Xi'an , Shaanxi , China
| | - Ruihua Jing
- a Department of Ophthalmology , The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University , Xi'an , Shaanxi , China
| | - Jie Liu
- a Department of Ophthalmology , The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University , Xi'an , Shaanxi , China
| | - Tiantian Qi
- a Department of Ophthalmology , The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University , Xi'an , Shaanxi , China
| | - Cheng Pei
- a Department of Ophthalmology , The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University , Xi'an , Shaanxi , China
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Karim N, Rahman A, Chanudom L, Thongsom M, Tangpong J. Mangosteen Vinegar Rind from Garcinia mangostana Prevents High-Fat Diet and Streptozotocin-Induced Type II Diabetes Nephropathy and Apoptosis. J Food Sci 2019; 84:1208-1215. [PMID: 31012974 DOI: 10.1111/1750-3841.14511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2018] [Revised: 01/23/2019] [Accepted: 02/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Type II diabetes (T2D) nephropathy, a major cause of end-stage kidney disease, progresses and develops from oxidative stress. Natural polyphenols can protect the kidney from diabetic nephropathy exerting antioxidant activities. The present approach enumerates the reno-protective and anti-apoptotic effects of mangosteen vinegar rind (MVR, a phenolic aqueous extract) against high-fat diet (5 g/day up to five weeks)-/streptozotocin (single ip, dose 30 mg/kgBW)-induced T2D nephropathy of albino mice. In vitro total phenolic content, 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS) activity, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) antioxidant capacity, and α-amylase inhibition activity as antidiabetic assay of MVR were performed. In vivo mice body weight, oral glucose, and maltose tolerance test, metabolic parameters (plasma glucose, insulin level, omeostasis model assessment-estimated insulin resistance), biochemical parameters (kidney hypertrophy, blood urea nitrogen, creatinine), oxidative stress parameters (malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase, catalase) were estimated in an intervention study. Additionally, renal morphology and early apoptosis were observed following the H & E staining and TUNEL assay of the tissue frozen section. We found that the aqueous extract of MVR possesses potent in vitro antioxidative and antidiabetic activities. Animal intervention results showed that MVR 100, 200 mg/kgBW, and Glibenclamide 60 mg/kgBW treatments significantly improved (P < 0.05) the abovementioned parameters compared to the diabetic control group. Furthermore, treatments also significantly restored (P < 0.05) kidney histological alterations and reduced cellular apoptosis compared to the diabetic control group. These findings concluded that MVR treatments significantly modulated the glucose intolerance, metabolic alterations, and oxidative stress-induced pathological alterations and cellular apoptosis of diabetic kidney. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: Garcinia mangostana, a polyphenol rich natural product, is obtained from the tropical rain forest area of Southeast Asian countries and processes diverse biological activities including antioxidant, anti-proliferative, anti-inflammatory, anti-carcinogenic, and so on. This research first time focuses on the nephro-protective and anti-apoptotic effects of mangosteen vinegar rind (MVR) from the mangosteen fruit pericarp. Our study provides the efficient data to prove the beneficial effect of MVR as a dietary supplement for the prevention and management of diabetic nephropathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naymul Karim
- Biomedical Sciences, School of Allied Health Sciences, Walailak Univ., Nakhon Si Thammarat, 80161, Thailand
| | - Atiar Rahman
- Dept. of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Univ. of Chittagong, Chittagong, 80280, Bangladesh
| | - Lanchakon Chanudom
- Biology Program, Faculty of Science and Technology, Nakhonsithammarat Rajabhat University, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand
| | - Montakarn Thongsom
- Biology Program, Faculty of Science and Technology, Nakhonsithammarat Rajabhat University, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand
| | - Jitbanjong Tangpong
- Biomedical Sciences, School of Allied Health Sciences, Walailak Univ., Nakhon Si Thammarat, 80161, Thailand
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Uppal S, Italiya KS, Chitkara D, Mittal A. Nanoparticulate-based drug delivery systems for small molecule anti-diabetic drugs: An emerging paradigm for effective therapy. Acta Biomater 2018; 81:20-42. [PMID: 30268916 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2018.09.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2018] [Revised: 09/14/2018] [Accepted: 09/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Emergence of nanoparticulate drug delivery systems in diabetes has facilitated improved delivery of small molecule drugs which could dramatically improve the quality of life for diabetics. Conventional dosage forms of the anti-diabetic drugs exhibit variable/less bioavailability and short half-life, demanding frequent dosing and causing increased side-effects resulting in ineffectiveness of therapy and non-compliance with the patients. Considering the chronic nature of diabetes, nanotechnology-based approaches are more promising in terms of providing site-specific delivery of drugs with higher bioavailability and reduced dosage regimen. Nanomedicines act at the cellular and molecular levels to enhance the uptake of the drug into the cells or block the efflux mechanisms thus retaining the drug inside the cell for a longer duration of time. Many studies have hinted at the possibility of administering peptide drugs like glucagon like peptides orally by encapsulation into nanoparticles. Nanoparticles also allow further modifications including their encapsulation into microparticles, polyethylene glycol (PEG)-PEGylation- or functionalization with ligands for active targeting. Nevertheless, such remarkable benefits are fraught with their long-term safety concerns, regulatory hurdles, limitations of scale-up and ineffective patent protection which have hindered their commercialization. This review summarizes the latest advances in the area of nanoformulations as applied to the delivery of anti-diabetics. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: The present work describes the latest advancements in the area of nanoformulations for anti-diabetic therapy along with highlighting the advantages that these nanoformulations offer at molecular level for diabetes. Although several potent orally active anti-hyperglycemic agents are available, the current challenges in efficient management of diabetes include optimization of the present therapies to ensure an optimum and stable level of glucose, and also to reduce the occurrence of long term complications associated with diabetes. Nanoformulations because of their high surface area to volume ratio provide improved efficacy, targeting their delivery to the desired site of action tends to minimize adverse effects and administration of peptide drugs by oral route is also possible by encapsulating them in nanoparticles. As we reflect on the success and failures of latest research on nanoformulations for the treatment of diabetes, it is important not to dwell on lack of FDA approvals but rather define future directions that guarantee more effective anti-diabetic treatment. In proposed review we have explored the latest advancement in anti-diabetic nanotechnology based formulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siddharth Uppal
- Department of Pharmacy, Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS-PILANI), Pilani, Rajasthan 333031, India
| | - Kishan S Italiya
- Department of Pharmacy, Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS-PILANI), Pilani, Rajasthan 333031, India
| | - Deepak Chitkara
- Department of Pharmacy, Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS-PILANI), Pilani, Rajasthan 333031, India
| | - Anupama Mittal
- Department of Pharmacy, Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS-PILANI), Pilani, Rajasthan 333031, India.
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13
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Marquez-Exposito L, Lavoz C, Rodrigues-Diez RR, Rayego-Mateos S, Orejudo M, Cantero-Navarro E, Ortiz A, Egido J, Selgas R, Mezzano S, Ruiz-Ortega M. Gremlin Regulates Tubular Epithelial to Mesenchymal Transition via VEGFR2: Potential Role in Renal Fibrosis. Front Pharmacol 2018; 9:1195. [PMID: 30386246 PMCID: PMC6199372 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.01195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2018] [Accepted: 09/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is emerging as an important health problem due to the increase number of CKD patients and the absence of an effective curative treatment. Gremlin has been proposed as a novel therapeutic target for renal inflammatory diseases, acting via Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor-2 (VEGFR2). Although many evidences suggest that Gremlin could regulate renal fibrosis, the receptor involved has not been yet clarified. Gremlin, as other TGF-β superfamily members, regulates tubular epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) and, therefore, could contribute to renal fibrosis. In cultured tubular epithelial cells Gremlin binding to VEGFR2 is linked to proinflammatory responses. Now, we have found out that in these cells VEGFR2 is also involved in the profibrotic actions of Gremlin. VEGFR2 blockade by a pharmacological kinase inhibitor or gene silencing diminished Gremlin-mediated gene upregulation of profibrotic factors and restored changes in EMT-related genes. Moreover, VEGFR2 inhibition blocked EMT phenotypic changes and dampened the rate of wound healing in response to Gremlin. The role of VEGFR2 in experimental fibrosis was evaluated in experimental unilateral ureteral obstruction. VEFGR2 inhibition diminished the upregulation of profibrotic genes and EMT changes, as well as the accumulation of extracellular matrix proteins, such as fibronectin and collagens in the obstructed kidneys. Notch pathway activation participates in renal damage progression by regulating cell growth/proliferation, regeneration and inflammation. In cultured tubular epithelial cells, Notch inhibition markedly downregulated Gremlin-induced EMT changes and wound healing speed. These results show that Gremlin regulates the EMT process via VEGFR2 and Notch pathway activation, suggesting that the Gremlin/VEGFR2 axis could be a potential therapeutic target for CKD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Marquez-Exposito
- Cellular Biology in Renal Diseases Laboratory, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Red de Investigación Renal, Madrid, Spain
| | - Carolina Lavoz
- Division of Nephrology, School of Medicine, Universidad Austral, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Raul R Rodrigues-Diez
- Red de Investigación Renal, Madrid, Spain.,Laboratory of Nephrology, Fundación para la Investigación Biomédica del Hospital Universitario la Paz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Sandra Rayego-Mateos
- Red de Investigación Renal, Madrid, Spain.,Vascular and Renal Translational Research Group, Institut de Recerca Biomédica de Lleida, Lleida, Spain
| | - Macarena Orejudo
- Cellular Biology in Renal Diseases Laboratory, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Red de Investigación Renal, Madrid, Spain
| | - Elena Cantero-Navarro
- Cellular Biology in Renal Diseases Laboratory, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Red de Investigación Renal, Madrid, Spain
| | - Alberto Ortiz
- Red de Investigación Renal, Madrid, Spain.,Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jesús Egido
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Spanish Biomedical Research Centre in Diabetes and Associated Metabolic Disorders, Madrid, Spain
| | - Rafael Selgas
- Red de Investigación Renal, Madrid, Spain.,Laboratory of Nephrology, Fundación para la Investigación Biomédica del Hospital Universitario la Paz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Sergio Mezzano
- Division of Nephrology, School of Medicine, Universidad Austral, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Marta Ruiz-Ortega
- Cellular Biology in Renal Diseases Laboratory, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Red de Investigación Renal, Madrid, Spain
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14
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Popkov VA, Andrianova NV, Manskikh VN, Silachev DN, Pevzner IB, Zorova LD, Sukhikh GT, Plotnikov EY, Zorov DB. Pregnancy protects the kidney from acute ischemic injury. Sci Rep 2018; 8:14534. [PMID: 30266919 PMCID: PMC6162317 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-32801-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2018] [Accepted: 09/14/2018] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
A complex analysis of acute kidney injury (AKI) in pregnant women shows that it is caused by the interaction of gestation-associated pathologies and beneficial signaling pathways activated by pregnancy. Studies report an increase in the regeneration of some organs during pregnancy. However, the kidney response to the injury during pregnancy has not been addressed. We investigated the mechanisms of the pregnancy influence on AKI. During pregnancy, the kidneys were shown to be more tolerant to AKI. Pregnant animals showed remarkable preservation of kidney functions after ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) indicated by the decrease of serum creatinine levels. The pregnant rats also demonstrated a significant decrease in kidney injury markers and an increase in protective markers. Two months after the I/R, group of pregnant animals had a decreased level of fibrosis in the kidney tissue. These effects are likely linked to increased cell proliferation after injury: using real-time cell proliferation monitoring we demonstrated that after ischemic injury, cells isolated from pregnant animal kidneys had higher proliferation potential vs. control animals; it was also supported by an increase of proliferation marker PCNA levels in kidneys of pregnant animals. We suggest that these effects are associated with hormonal changes in the maternal organism, since hormonal pseudopregnancy simulated effects of pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasily A Popkov
- Belozersky Institute of Physico-Chemical Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia.,Faculty of Bioengineering and Bioinformatics, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia.,V.I. Kulakov National Medical Research Center of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology, Moscow, Russia
| | - Nadezda V Andrianova
- Faculty of Bioengineering and Bioinformatics, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Vasily N Manskikh
- Belozersky Institute of Physico-Chemical Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Denis N Silachev
- Belozersky Institute of Physico-Chemical Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia.,V.I. Kulakov National Medical Research Center of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology, Moscow, Russia
| | - Irina B Pevzner
- Belozersky Institute of Physico-Chemical Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia.,V.I. Kulakov National Medical Research Center of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology, Moscow, Russia
| | - Ljubava D Zorova
- Belozersky Institute of Physico-Chemical Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia.,V.I. Kulakov National Medical Research Center of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology, Moscow, Russia
| | - Gennady T Sukhikh
- V.I. Kulakov National Medical Research Center of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology, Moscow, Russia
| | - Egor Y Plotnikov
- Belozersky Institute of Physico-Chemical Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia. .,V.I. Kulakov National Medical Research Center of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology, Moscow, Russia. .,Institute of Molecular Medicine, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia.
| | - Dmitry B Zorov
- Belozersky Institute of Physico-Chemical Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia. .,V.I. Kulakov National Medical Research Center of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology, Moscow, Russia.
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15
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Abstract
Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is currently the leading cause of end-stage renal disease globally. Given the increasing incidence of diabetes, many experts hold the view that DN will eventually progress toward pandemic proportions. Whilst hyperglycaemia-induced vascular dysfunction is the primary initiating mechanism in DN, its progression is also driven by a heterogeneous set of pathological mechanisms, including oxidative stress, inflammation and fibrosis. Current treatment strategies for DN are targeted against the fundamental dysregulation of glycaemia and hypertension. Unfortunately, these standards of care can delay but do not prevent disease progression or the significant emotional, physical and financial costs associated with this disease. As such, there is a pressing need to develop novel therapeutics that are both effective and safe. Set against the genomic era, numerous potential target pathways in DN have been identified. However, the clinical translation of basic DN research has been met with a number of challenges. Moreover, the notion of DN as a purely vascular disease is outdated and it has become clear that DN is a multi-dimensional, multi-cellular condition. The review will highlight the current therapeutic approaches for DN and provide an insight into how the inherent complexity of DN is shaping the research pathways toward the development and clinical translation of novel therapeutic strategies.
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16
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Gremlin activates the Notch pathway linked to renal inflammation. Clin Sci (Lond) 2018; 132:1097-1115. [PMID: 29720422 DOI: 10.1042/cs20171553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2017] [Revised: 04/27/2018] [Accepted: 05/02/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Preclinical studies suggest that Gremlin participates in renal damage and could be a potential therapeutic target for human chronic kidney diseases. Inflammation is a common characteristic of progressive renal disease, and therefore novel anti-inflammatory therapeutic targets should be investigated. The Notch signaling pathway is involved in kidney development and is activated in human chronic kidney disease, but whether Gremlin regulates the Notch pathway has not been investigated. In cultured tubular cells, Gremlin up-regulated gene expression of several Notch pathway components, increased the production of the canonical ligand Jagged-1, and caused the nuclear translocation of active Notch-1 (N1ICD). In vivo administration of Gremlin into murine kidneys elicited Jagged-1 production, increased N1ICD nuclear levels, and up-regulated the gene expression of the Notch effectors hes-1 and hey-1 All these data clearly demonstrate that Gremlin activates the Notch pathway in the kidney. Notch inhibition using the γ-secretase inhibitor DAPT impaired renal inflammatory cell infiltration and proinflammatory cytokines overexpression in Gremlin-injected mice and in experimental models of renal injury. Moreover, Notch inhibition blocked Gremlin-induced activation of the canonical and noncanonical nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) pathway, identifying an important mechanism involved in the anti-inflammatory actions of Notch inhibition. In conclusion, Gremlin activates the Notch pathway in the kidney and this is linked to NF-κB-mediated inflammation, supporting the hypothesis that Notch inhibition could be a potential anti-inflammatory strategy for renal diseases.
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17
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Abstract
Diabetes is a condition that is not completely treatable but life of a diabetic patient can be smoothed by preventing or delaying the associate conditions like diabetic retinopathy, nephropathy, impaired wound healing process, etc. Apart from conventional methods to regulate diabetic condition, new techniques using siRNA have been emerged to prevent the associated conditions. This paper focuses on how siRNA used as a tool to silence the expression of genes which plays critical role in pathogenesis of these conditions. A marked improvement in wound-healing process of diabetic patients has been observed with siRNA treatment by silencing of Keap1 gene. Glucagon plays critical role in glucose homoeostasis and increases blood glucose level during hypoglycaemia. Glucose homoeostasis is impaired in diabetic patient and suppressing the expression of glucagon secretion with siRNA is used to suppress the progress of diabetes. Similarly, silencing expression of several factors has demonstrated improvement of treatment of diabetic nephropathy, retinopathy and inflammation by the use of siRNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pravin Shende
- a Shobhaben Pratapbhai Patel School of Pharmacy and Technology Management , SVKM'S NMIMS , Mumbai , India
| | - Chirag Patel
- a Shobhaben Pratapbhai Patel School of Pharmacy and Technology Management , SVKM'S NMIMS , Mumbai , India
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18
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Abstract
Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) constitute the largest subdivision of the transforming growth factor (TGF)-β family of ligands and exert most of their effects through the canonical effectors Smad1, 5, and 8. Appropriate regulation of BMP signaling is critical for the development and homeostasis of numerous human organ systems. Aberrations in BMP pathways or their regulation are increasingly associated with diverse human pathologies, and there is an urgent and growing need to develop effective approaches to modulate BMP signaling in the clinic. In this review, we provide a wide perspective on diseases and/or conditions associated with dysregulated BMP signal transduction, outline the current strategies available to modulate BMP pathways, highlight emerging second-generation technologies, and postulate prospective avenues for future investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan W Lowery
- Division of Biomedical Science, Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana 46222
| | - Vicki Rosen
- Department of Developmental Biology, Harvard School of Dental Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts 02115
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19
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Yu SMW, Bonventre JV. Acute Kidney Injury and Progression of Diabetic Kidney Disease. Adv Chronic Kidney Dis 2018; 25:166-180. [PMID: 29580581 DOI: 10.1053/j.ackd.2017.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2017] [Revised: 12/15/2017] [Accepted: 12/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Diabetic kidney disease, commonly termed diabetic nephropathy (DN), is the most common cause of end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) worldwide. The characteristic histopathology of DN includes glomerular basement membrane thickening, mesangial expansion, nodular glomerular sclerosis, and tubulointerstitial fibrosis. Diabetes is associated with a number of metabolic derangements, such as reactive oxygen species overproduction, hypoxic state, mitochondrial dysfunction, and inflammation. In the past few decades, our knowledge of DN has advanced considerably although much needs to be learned. The traditional paradigm of glomerulus-centered pathophysiology has expanded to the tubule-interstitium, the immune response and inflammation. Biomarkers of proximal tubule injury have been shown to correlate with DN progression, independent of traditional glomerular injury biomarkers such as albuminuria. In this review, we summarize mechanisms of increased susceptibility to acute kidney injury in diabetes mellitus and the roles played by many kidney cell types to facilitate maladaptive responses leading to chronic and end-stage kidney disease.
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20
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Wang XB, Zhu H, Song W, Su JH. Gremlin Regulates Podocyte Apoptosis via Transforming Growth Factor-β (TGF-β) Pathway in Diabetic Nephropathy. Med Sci Monit 2018; 24:183-189. [PMID: 29315280 PMCID: PMC5771160 DOI: 10.12659/msm.905758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gremlin has been reported to be up-regulated in glomerular mesangial cells in diabetic nephropathy (DN). However, the regulation of gremlin in podocytes is still rarely reported. This study aimed to investigate the underlying mechanisms by which gremlin mediates the pathogenesis of DN via transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling pathways. MATERIAL AND METHODS Lentiviral and RNAi transfection were performed to increase and decrease gremlin expression in high-glucose conditions. Expression at the mRNA and protein level was detected by RT-qPCR and Western blotting. RESULTS The expression of gremlin was significantly higher in high-glucose (HG, 30mM) than normal-glucose (NG, 5.5 mM) conditions. The gremlin overexpression significantly suppressed the expression of nephrin and synaptopodin. The phosphorylation of canonical TGF-b signaling pathway components, including Smad2/3 and MKK, was increased in the gremlin-overexpressing group. In addition, the expression levels of Bax and cleaved caspase-3 were also higher in the gremlin-overexpressing group. TGF-β pathway inhibitor (SB505124) significantly inhibited TGF-β pathway activity and enhanced the expression of nephrin and synaptopodin. CONCLUSIONS These results indicate that gremlin can aggravate podocyte lesions through the TGF-β signaling pathway, providing a novel therapeutic target for DN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Bing Wang
- Department of Nephrology, Taizhou Second People’s Hospital Affiliated Yangzhou University, Taizhou, Jiangsu, P.R. China
| | - Hong Zhu
- Department of Nephrology, Taizhou Second People’s Hospital Affiliated Yangzhou University, Taizhou, Jiangsu, P.R. China
| | - Wei Song
- Department of Gastroenterology, Huai’an First People’s Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Huai’an, Jiangsu, P.R. China
| | - Jian-Hua Su
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, Wuxi No. 2 People’s Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, P.R. China
- Corresponding Author: Jian-Hua Su, e-mail:
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21
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Tatsinkam AJ, Rune N, Smith J, Norman JT, Mulloy B, Rider CC. The binding of the bone morphogenetic protein antagonist gremlin to kidney heparan sulfate: Such binding is not essential for BMP antagonism. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2017; 83:39-46. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2016.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2016] [Revised: 11/03/2016] [Accepted: 12/10/2016] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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22
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Church RH, Ali I, Tate M, Lavin D, Krishnakumar A, Kok HM, Hombrebueno JR, Dunne PD, Bingham V, Goldschmeding R, Martin F, Brazil DP. Gremlin1 plays a key role in kidney development and renal fibrosis. Am J Physiol Renal Physiol 2017; 312:F1141-F1157. [PMID: 28100499 PMCID: PMC5495891 DOI: 10.1152/ajprenal.00344.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2016] [Revised: 11/30/2016] [Accepted: 01/10/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Gremlin1 (Grem1), an antagonist of bone morphogenetic proteins, plays a key role in embryogenesis. A highly specific temporospatial gradient of Grem1 and bone morphogenetic protein signaling is critical to normal lung, kidney, and limb development. Grem1 levels are increased in renal fibrotic conditions, including acute kidney injury, diabetic nephropathy, chronic allograft nephropathy, and immune glomerulonephritis. We demonstrate that a small number of grem1−/− whole body knockout mice on a mixed genetic background (8%) are viable, with a single, enlarged left kidney and grossly normal histology. The grem1−/− mice displayed mild renal dysfunction at 4 wk, which recovered by 16 wk. Tubular epithelial cell-specific targeted deletion of Grem1 (TEC-grem1-cKO) mice displayed a milder response in the acute injury and recovery phases of the folic acid model. Increases in indexes of kidney damage were smaller in TEC-grem1-cKO than wild-type mice. In the recovery phase of the folic acid model, associated with renal fibrosis, TEC-grem1-cKO mice displayed reduced histological damage and an attenuated fibrotic gene response compared with wild-type controls. Together, these data demonstrate that Grem1 expression in the tubular epithelial compartment plays a significant role in the fibrotic response to renal injury in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel H Church
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
| | - Imran Ali
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
| | - Mitchel Tate
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
| | - Deborah Lavin
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
| | - Arjun Krishnakumar
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
| | - Helena M Kok
- Utrecht Medical Centre, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Jose R Hombrebueno
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
| | - Philip D Dunne
- Centre for Cancer Research and Cell Biology, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland
| | - Victoria Bingham
- Centre for Cancer Research and Cell Biology, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland
| | | | - Finian Martin
- Conway Institute, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland; and
| | - Derek P Brazil
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom;
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23
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Ali IHA, Brazil DP. Bone morphogenetic proteins and their antagonists: current and emerging clinical uses. Br J Pharmacol 2016; 171:3620-32. [PMID: 24758361 DOI: 10.1111/bph.12724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2014] [Revised: 04/02/2014] [Accepted: 04/08/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) are members of the TGFβ superfamily of secreted cysteine knot proteins that includes TGFβ1, nodal, activins and inhibins. BMPs were first discovered by Urist in the 1960s when he showed that implantation of demineralized bone into intramuscular tissue of rabbits induced bone and cartilage formation. Since this seminal discovery, BMPs have also been shown to play key roles in several other biological processes, including limb, kidney, skin, hair and neuronal development, as well as maintaining vascular homeostasis. The multifunctional effects of BMPs make them attractive targets for the treatment of several pathologies, including bone disorders, kidney and lung fibrosis, and cancer. This review will summarize current knowledge on the BMP signalling pathway and critically evaluate the potential of recombinant BMPs as pharmacological agents for the treatment of bone repair and tissue fibrosis in patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imran H A Ali
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK
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24
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Parathyroid Hormone-Related Protein Interacts With the Transforming Growth Factor-β/Bone Morphogenetic Protein-2/Gremlin Signaling Pathway to Regulate Proinflammatory and Profibrotic Mediators in Pancreatic Acinar and Stellate Cells. Pancreas 2016; 45:659-70. [PMID: 26495794 PMCID: PMC4833530 DOI: 10.1097/mpa.0000000000000522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) regulates immune and fibrotic responses of chronic pancreatitis. The bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP-2) antagonist gremlin is regulated by TGF-β. Parathyroid hormone-related protein (PTHrP) levels are elevated in chronic pancreatitis. Here, we investigated the cross-talk between TGF-β/BMP-2/gremlin and PTHrP signaling. METHODS Reverse transcription/real-time polymerase chain reaction, chromatin immunoprecipitation, Western blotting, and transient transfection were used to investigate PTHrP regulation by TGF-β and BMP-2 and gremlin regulation by PTHrP. The PTHrP antagonist PTHrP (7-34) and acinar cells with conditional Pthrp gene deletion (PTHrP) were used to assess PTHrP's role in the proinflammatory and profibrotic effects of TGF-β and gremlin. RESULTS Transforming growth factor β increased PTHrP levels in acinar cells and pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) through a Smad3-dependent pathway. Transforming growth factor β's effects on levels of IL-6 and intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1) (acinar cells) and procollagen I and fibronectin (PSCs) were inhibited by PTHrP (7-34). PTHrP suppressed TGF-β's effects on IL-6 and ICAM-1. Parathyroid hormone-related hormone increased gremlin in acinar cells, and inhibiting gremlin action suppressed TGF-β's and PTHrP's effects on IL-6 and ICAM-1. Transforming growth factor β-mediated gremlin up-regulation was suppressed in PTHrP cells. Bone morphogenetic protein 2 suppressed PTHrP levels in PSCs. CONCLUSIONS Parathyroid hormone-related hormone functions as a novel mediator of the proinflammatory and profibrotic effects of TGF-β. Transforming growth factor β and BMP-2 regulate PTHrP expression, and PTHrP regulates gremlin levels.
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25
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Mulloy B, Rider CC. The Bone Morphogenetic Proteins and Their Antagonists. VITAMINS AND HORMONES 2015; 99:63-90. [PMID: 26279373 DOI: 10.1016/bs.vh.2015.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) and the growth and differentiation factors comprise a single family of some 20 homologous, dimeric cytokines which share the cystine-knot domain typical of the TGF-β superfamily. They control the differentiation and activity of a range of cell types, including many outside bone and cartilage. They serve as developmental morphogens, but are also important in chronic pathologies, including tissue fibrosis and cancer. One mechanism for enabling tight spatiotemporal control of their activities is through a number of antagonist proteins, including Noggin, Follistatin, Chordin, Twisted gastrulation (TSG), and the seven members of the Cerberus and Dan family. These antagonists are secreted proteins that bind selectively to particular BMPs with high affinity, thereby blocking receptor engagement and signaling. Most of these antagonists also possess a TGF-β cystine-knot domain. Here, we discuss current knowledge and understanding of the structures and activities of the BMPs and their antagonists, with a particular focus on the latter proteins. Recent advances in structural biology of BMP antagonists have begun the process of elucidating the molecular basis of their activity, displaying a surprising variety between the modes of action of these closely related proteins. We also discuss the interactions of the antagonists with the glycosaminoglycan heparan sulfate, which is found ubiquitously on cell surfaces and in the extracellular matrix.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Mulloy
- Centre for Biomedical Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, Royal Holloway, University of London, Egham, Surrey, United Kingdom
| | - Chris C Rider
- Centre for Biomedical Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, Royal Holloway, University of London, Egham, Surrey, United Kingdom.
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26
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Marchant V, Droguett A, Valderrama G, Burgos ME, Carpio D, Kerr B, Ruiz-Ortega M, Egido J, Mezzano S. Tubular overexpression of Gremlin in transgenic mice aggravates renal damage in diabetic nephropathy. Am J Physiol Renal Physiol 2015; 309:F559-68. [PMID: 26155842 DOI: 10.1152/ajprenal.00023.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2015] [Accepted: 06/30/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is currently a leading cause of end-stage renal failure worldwide. Gremlin was identified as a gene differentially expressed in mesangial cells exposed to high glucose and in experimental diabetic kidneys. We have described that Gremlin is highly expressed in biopsies from patients with diabetic nephropathy, predominantly in areas of tubulointerstitial fibrosis. In streptozotocin (STZ)-induced experimental diabetes, Gremlin deletion using Grem1 heterozygous knockout mice or by gene silencing, ameliorates renal damage. To study the in vivo role of Gremlin in renal damage, we developed a diabetic model induced by STZ in transgenic (TG) mice expressing human Gremlin in proximal tubular epithelial cells. The albuminuria/creatinuria ratio, determined at week 20 after treatment, was significantly increased in diabetic mice but with no significant differences between transgenic (TG/STZ) and wild-type mice (WT/STZ). To assess the level of renal damage, kidney tissue was analyzed by light microscopy (periodic acid-Schiff and Masson staining), electron microscopy, and quantitative PCR. TG/STZ mice had significantly greater thickening of the glomerular basement membrane, increased mesangial matrix, and podocytopenia vs. WT/STZ. At the tubulointerstitial level, TG/STZ showed increased cell infiltration and mild interstitial fibrosis. In addition, we observed a decreased expression of podocin and overexpression of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 and fibrotic-related markers, including transforming growth factor-β1, Col1a1, and α-smooth muscle actin. Together, these results show that TG mice overexpressing Gremlin in renal tubules develop greater glomerular and tubulointerstitial injury in response to diabetic-mediated damage and support the involvement of Gremlin in diabetic nephropathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Marchant
- Nephrology Division, School of Medicine, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Alejandra Droguett
- Nephrology Division, School of Medicine, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Graciela Valderrama
- Nephrology Division, School of Medicine, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - M Eugenia Burgos
- Nephrology Division, School of Medicine, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Daniel Carpio
- Nephrology Division, School of Medicine, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | | | - Marta Ruiz-Ortega
- Cellular Biology in Renal Diseases Laboratory, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria (IIS)-Fundación Jimenez Diaz, Madrid, Spain; and
| | - Jesús Egido
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz-UAM/Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas, Instituto Reina Sofía de Investigación Nefrológica, Madrid, Spain
| | - Sergio Mezzano
- Nephrology Division, School of Medicine, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile;
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Gremlin is a key pro-fibrogenic factor in chronic pancreatitis. J Mol Med (Berl) 2015; 93:1085-1093. [PMID: 26141517 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-015-1308-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2015] [Revised: 05/28/2015] [Accepted: 06/02/2015] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED The current study aims to identify the pro-fibrogenic role of Gremlin, an endogenous antagonist of bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) in chronic pancreatitis (CP). CP is a highly debilitating disease characterized by progressive pancreatic inflammation and fibrosis that ultimately leads to exocrine and endocrine dysfunction. While transforming growth factor (TGF)-β is a known key pro-fibrogenic factor in CP, the TGF-β superfamily member BMPs exert an anti-fibrogenic function in CP as reported by our group recently. To investigate how BMP signaling is regulated in CP by BMP antagonists, the mouse CP model induced by cerulein was used. During CP induction, TGF-β1 messenger RNA (mRNA) increased 156-fold in 2 weeks, a BMP antagonist Gremlin 1 (Grem1) mRNA levels increased 145-fold at 3 weeks, and increases in Grem1 protein levels correlated with increases in collagen deposition. Increased Grem1 was also observed in human CP pancreata compared to normal. Grem1 knockout in Grem1 (+/-) mice revealed a 33.2 % reduction in pancreatic fibrosis in CP compared to wild-type littermates. In vitro in isolated pancreatic stellate cells, TGF-β induced Grem1 expression. Addition of the recombinant mouse Grem1 protein blocked BMP2-induced Smad1/5 phosphorylation and abolished BMP2's suppression effects on TGF-β-induced collagen expression. Evidences presented herein demonstrate that Grem1, induced by TGF-β, is pro-fibrogenic by antagonizing BMP activity in CP. KEY MESSAGES • Gremlin is upregulated in human chronic pancreatitis and a mouse CP model in vivo. • Deficiency of Grem1 in mice attenuates pancreatic fibrosis under CP induction in vivo. • TGF-β induces Gremlin mRNA and protein expression in pancreatic stellate cells in vitro. • Gremlin blocks BMP2 signaling and function in pancreatic stellate cells in vitro. • This study discloses a pro-fibrogenic role of Gremlin by antagonizing BMP activity in chronic pancreatitis.
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Mapping the heparin-binding site of the BMP antagonist gremlin by site-directed mutagenesis based on predictive modelling. Biochem J 2015; 470:53-64. [PMID: 26251446 DOI: 10.1042/bj20150228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2015] [Accepted: 06/11/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Gremlin is a member of the CAN (cerberus and DAN) family of secreted BMP (bone morphogenetic protein) antagonists and also an agonist of VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) receptor-2. It is critical in limb skeleton and kidney development and is re-expressed during tissue fibrosis. Gremlin binds strongly to heparin and heparan sulfate and, in the present study, we sought to investigate its heparin-binding site. In order to explore a putative non-contiguous binding site predicted by computational molecular modelling, we substituted a total of 11 key arginines and lysines located in three basic residue sequence clusters with homologous sequences from cerberus and DAN (differential screening selected gene abberative in neuroblastoma), CAN proteins which lack basic residues in these positions. A panel of six Myc-tagged gremlin mutants, MGR-1-MGR-6 (MGR, mutant gremlin), each containing different combinations of targeted substitutions, all showed markedly reduced affinity for heparin as demonstrated by their NaCl elution on heparin affinity chromatography, thus verifying our predictions. Both MGR-5 and MGR-6 retained BMP-4-binding activity comparable to that of wild-type gremlin. Low-molecular-mass heparin neither promoted nor inhibited BMP-4 binding. Finally, glutaraldehyde cross-linking demonstrated that gremlin forms non-covalent dimers, similar behaviour to that of DAN and also PRDC (protein related to cerberus and DAN), another CAN protein. The resulting dimer would possess two heparin-binding sites, each running along an exposed surface on the second β-strand finger loop of one of the monomers.
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Brazil DP, Church RH, Surae S, Godson C, Martin F. BMP signalling: agony and antagony in the family. Trends Cell Biol 2015; 25:249-64. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tcb.2014.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 183] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2014] [Revised: 12/01/2014] [Accepted: 12/02/2014] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
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Kokil GR, Veedu RN, Ramm GA, Prins JB, Parekh HS. Type 2 diabetes mellitus: limitations of conventional therapies and intervention with nucleic acid-based therapeutics. Chem Rev 2015; 115:4719-43. [PMID: 25918949 DOI: 10.1021/cr5002832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Ganesh R Kokil
- †School of Pharmacy, Pharmacy Australia Centre of Excellence, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Rakesh N Veedu
- §Center for Comparative Genomics, Murdoch University, 90 South Street, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia.,∥Western Australian Neuroscience Research Institute, Perth, WA 6150, Australia.,‡School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane QLD 4072 Australia
| | - Grant A Ramm
- ⊥The Hepatic Fibrosis Group, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia.,#Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia
| | - Johannes B Prins
- ∇Mater Research Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4101, Australia
| | - Harendra S Parekh
- †School of Pharmacy, Pharmacy Australia Centre of Excellence, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4102, Australia
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Lee SY, Kim SI, Choi ME. Therapeutic targets for treating fibrotic kidney diseases. Transl Res 2015; 165:512-30. [PMID: 25176603 PMCID: PMC4326607 DOI: 10.1016/j.trsl.2014.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 132] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2014] [Revised: 07/24/2014] [Accepted: 07/28/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Renal fibrosis is the hallmark of virtually all progressive kidney diseases and strongly correlates with the deterioration of kidney function. The renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system blockade is central to the current treatment of patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) for the renoprotective effects aimed to prevent or slow progression to end-stage renal disease (ESRD). However, the incidence of CKD is still increasing, and there is a critical need for new therapeutics. Here, we review novel strategies targeting various components implicated in the fibrogenic pathway to inhibit or retard the loss of kidney function. We focus, in particular, on antifibrotic approaches that target transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1, a key mediator of kidney fibrosis, and exciting new data on the role of autophagy. Bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)-7 and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) are highlighted as modulators of profibrotic TGF-β activity. BMP-7 has a protective role against TGF-β1 in kidney fibrosis, whereas CTGF enhances TGF-β-mediated fibrosis. We also discuss recent advances in the development of additional strategies for antifibrotic therapy. These include strategies targeting chemokine pathways via CC chemokine receptors 1 and 2 to modulate the inflammatory response, inhibition of phosphodiesterase to restore nitric oxide-cyclic 3',5'-guanosine monophosphate function, inhibition of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase 1 and 4 to suppress reactive oxygen species production, and inhibition of endothelin 1 or tumor necrosis factor α to ameliorate progressive renal fibrosis. Furthermore, a brief overview of some of the biomarkers of kidney fibrosis is currently being explored that may improve the ability to monitor antifibrotic therapies. It is hoped that evidence based on the preclinical and clinical data discussed in this review leads to novel antifibrotic therapies effective in patients with CKD to prevent or delay progression to ESRD.
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Affiliation(s)
- So-Young Lee
- Renal Division, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass; Department of Internal Medicine, Bundang CHA Medical Center, CHA University School of Medicine, Seongnam, South Korea
| | - Sung I Kim
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Joan and Sanford I. Weill Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY
| | - Mary E Choi
- Renal Division, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass; Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Joan and Sanford I. Weill Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY.
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Gremlin1 preferentially binds to bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2) and BMP-4 over BMP-7. Biochem J 2015; 466:55-68. [DOI: 10.1042/bj20140771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Gremlin1 has a distinct preference for which bone morphogenetic protein it binds to in kidney epithelial cells. Grem1–BMP-2 complexes are favoured over other BMPs, and this may play an important role in fibrotic kidney disease.
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Wellbrock J, Sheikhzadeh S, Oliveira-Ferrer L, Stamm H, Hillebrand M, Keyser B, Klokow M, Vohwinkel G, Bonk V, Otto B, Streichert T, Balabanov S, Hagel C, Rybczynski M, Bentzien F, Bokemeyer C, von Kodolitsch Y, Fiedler W. Overexpression of Gremlin-1 in patients with Loeys-Dietz syndrome: implications on pathophysiology and early disease detection. PLoS One 2014; 9:e104742. [PMID: 25116393 PMCID: PMC4130545 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0104742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2014] [Accepted: 07/14/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Backgrounds The Loeys-Dietz syndrome (LDS) is an inherited connective tissue disorder caused by mutations in the transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) receptors TGFBR1 or TGFBR2. Most patients with LDS develop severe aortic aneurysms resulting in early need of surgical intervention. In order to gain further insight into the pathophysiology of the disorder, we investigated circulating outgrowth endothelial cells (OEC) from the peripheral blood of LDS patients from a cohort of 23 patients including 6 patients with novel TGF-β receptor mutations. Methods and Results We performed gene expression profiling of OECs using microarray analysis followed by quantitative PCR for verification of gene expression. Compared to OECs of age- and sex-matched healthy controls, OECs isolated from three LDS patients displayed altered expression of several genes belonging to the TGF-β pathway, especially those affecting bone morphogenic protein (BMP) signalling including BMP2, BMP4 and BMPR1A. Gene expression of BMP antagonist Gremlin-1 (GREM1) showed the most prominent up-regulation. This increase was confirmed at the protein level by immunoblotting of LDS-OECs. In immunohistochemistry, abundant Gremlin-1 protein expression could be verified in endothelial cells as well as smooth muscle cells within the arterial media. Furthermore, Gremlin-1 plasma levels of LDS patients were significantly elevated compared to healthy control subjects. Conclusions These findings open new avenues in the understanding of the pathogenesis of Loeys-Dietz syndrome and the development of new diagnostic serological methods for early disease detection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasmin Wellbrock
- Hubertus Wald University Cancer Centre, Department of Oncology, Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation with section Pneumology, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- * E-mail:
| | - Sara Sheikhzadeh
- Center of Cardiology and Cardiovascular Surgery, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Leticia Oliveira-Ferrer
- Hubertus Wald University Cancer Centre, Department of Oncology, Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation with section Pneumology, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Hauke Stamm
- Hubertus Wald University Cancer Centre, Department of Oncology, Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation with section Pneumology, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Mathias Hillebrand
- Center of Cardiology and Cardiovascular Surgery, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Britta Keyser
- Institute of Human Genetics, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Marianne Klokow
- Hubertus Wald University Cancer Centre, Department of Oncology, Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation with section Pneumology, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Gabi Vohwinkel
- Hubertus Wald University Cancer Centre, Department of Oncology, Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation with section Pneumology, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Veronika Bonk
- Hubertus Wald University Cancer Centre, Department of Oncology, Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation with section Pneumology, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Benjamin Otto
- Department of Clinical Chemistry/Central Laboratories, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Streichert
- Department of Clinical Chemistry/Central Laboratories, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Stefan Balabanov
- Hubertus Wald University Cancer Centre, Department of Oncology, Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation with section Pneumology, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Division of Hematology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Christian Hagel
- Institute for Neuropathology, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Meike Rybczynski
- Center of Cardiology and Cardiovascular Surgery, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Frank Bentzien
- Department of Transfusion Medicine, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Carsten Bokemeyer
- Hubertus Wald University Cancer Centre, Department of Oncology, Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation with section Pneumology, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Yskert von Kodolitsch
- Center of Cardiology and Cardiovascular Surgery, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Walter Fiedler
- Hubertus Wald University Cancer Centre, Department of Oncology, Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation with section Pneumology, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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Docherty NG, Murphy M, Martin F, Brennan EP, Godson C. Targeting cellular drivers and counter-regulators of hyperglycaemia- and transforming growth factor-β1-associated profibrotic responses in diabetic kidney disease. Exp Physiol 2014; 99:1154-62. [PMID: 25085843 DOI: 10.1113/expphysiol.2014.078774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Diabetic kidney disease occurs in >30% of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and is characterized at source by a maladaptive response in the renal parenchyma to exposure to a glucotoxic-lipotoxic diabetic milieu that courses coincident with hypertension. The consequence of these maladaptive responses is progressive renal injury, which is exacerbated by the development of a chronic inflammatory infiltrate associated with the development of tubulointerstitial fibrosis. The evolution of tubulointerstitial fibrosis is correlated with the loss of functional renal mass and descent towards renal failure. Transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) is a recognized mediator of the profibrotic response of mesangial cells and renal tubular epithelial cells to hyperglycaemia. While euglycaemia remains the goal in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus, the prevention, arrest and reversal of microvascular complications, such as diabetic kidney disease, may be assisted by pharmacological modulation of the effectors of glucotoxicity, such as TGF-β1. This review focuses on describing how, through reductionist in vitro experimentation focusing on TGF-β1-related responses to hyperglycaemia, we have identified induced in high glucose-1 (IHG-1), induced in high glucose-2 (IHG-2/Grem1) and the lipoxin-inducible microRNA let-7c as potential targets for harnessing new therapeutic approaches to limit the bioactivity of TGF-β1 in diabetic kidney disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neil G Docherty
- Diabetes Complications Research Centre, Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research, School of Medicine and Medical Sciences, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Madeline Murphy
- Diabetes Complications Research Centre, Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research, School of Medicine and Medical Sciences, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Finian Martin
- Diabetes Complications Research Centre, Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research, School of Medicine and Medical Sciences, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Eoin P Brennan
- Diabetes Complications Research Centre, Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research, School of Medicine and Medical Sciences, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Catherine Godson
- Diabetes Complications Research Centre, Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research, School of Medicine and Medical Sciences, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
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Droguett A, Krall P, Burgos ME, Valderrama G, Carpio D, Ardiles L, Rodriguez-Diez R, Kerr B, Walz K, Ruiz-Ortega M, Egido J, Mezzano S. Tubular overexpression of gremlin induces renal damage susceptibility in mice. PLoS One 2014; 9:e101879. [PMID: 25036148 PMCID: PMC4103765 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0101879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2013] [Accepted: 06/12/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
A growing number of patients are recognized worldwide to have chronic kidney disease. Glomerular and interstitial fibrosis are hallmarks of renal progression. However, fibrosis of the kidney remains an unresolved challenge, and its molecular mechanisms are still not fully understood. Gremlin is an embryogenic gene that has been shown to play a key role in nephrogenesis, and its expression is generally low in the normal adult kidney. However, gremlin expression is elevated in many human renal diseases, including diabetic nephropathy, pauci-immune glomerulonephritis and chronic allograft nephropathy. Several studies have proposed that gremlin may be involved in renal damage by acting as a downstream mediator of TGF-β. To examine the in vivo role of gremlin in kidney pathophysiology, we generated seven viable transgenic mouse lines expressing human gremlin (GREM1) specifically in renal proximal tubular epithelial cells under the control of an androgen-regulated promoter. These lines demonstrated 1.2- to 200-fold increased GREM1 expression. GREM1 transgenic mice presented a normal phenotype and were without proteinuria and renal function involvement. In response to the acute renal damage cause by folic acid nephrotoxicity, tubule-specific GREM1 transgenic mice developed increased proteinuria after 7 and 14 days compared with wild-type treated mice. At 14 days tubular lesions, such as dilatation, epithelium flattening and hyaline casts, with interstitial cell infiltration and mild fibrosis were significantly more prominent in transgenic mice than wild-type mice. Tubular GREM1 overexpression was correlated with the renal upregulation of profibrotic factors, such as TGF-β and αSMA, and with increased numbers of monocytes/macrophages and lymphocytes compared to wild-type mice. Taken together, our results suggest that GREM1-overexpressing mice have an increased susceptibility to renal damage, supporting the involvement of gremlin in renal damage progression. This transgenic mouse model could be used as a new tool for enhancing the knowledge of renal disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandra Droguett
- Division Nephrology, School of Medicine, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Paola Krall
- Division Nephrology, School of Medicine, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - M. Eugenia Burgos
- Division Nephrology, School of Medicine, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Graciela Valderrama
- Division Nephrology, School of Medicine, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Daniel Carpio
- Hystopathology Division, School of Medicine, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Leopoldo Ardiles
- Division Nephrology, School of Medicine, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Raquel Rodriguez-Diez
- Cellular Biology in Renal Diseases Laboratory, Universidad Autónoma Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | - Marta Ruiz-Ortega
- Cellular Biology in Renal Diseases Laboratory, Universidad Autónoma Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jesus Egido
- Cellular Biology in Renal Diseases Laboratory, Universidad Autónoma Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Sergio Mezzano
- Division Nephrology, School of Medicine, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
- * E-mail:
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Ciuclan L, Sheppard K, Dong L, Sutton D, Duggan N, Hussey M, Simmons J, Morrell NW, Jarai G, Edwards M, Dubois G, Thomas M, Van Heeke G, England K. Treatment with anti-gremlin 1 antibody ameliorates chronic hypoxia/SU5416-induced pulmonary arterial hypertension in mice. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2014; 183:1461-73. [PMID: 24160323 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2013.07.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2013] [Revised: 06/20/2013] [Accepted: 07/12/2013] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
The expression of the bone morphogenetic protein antagonist, Gremlin 1, was recently shown to be increased in the lungs of pulmonary arterial hypertension patients, and in response to hypoxia. Gremlin 1 released from the vascular endothelium may inhibit endogenous bone morphogenetic protein signaling and contribute to the development of pulmonary arterial hypertension. Here, we investigate the impact of Gremlin 1 inhibition in disease after exposure to chronic hypoxia/SU5416 in mice. We investigated the effects of an anti-Gremlin 1 monoclonal antibody in the chronic hypoxia/SU5416 murine model of pulmonary arterial hypertension. Chronic hypoxic/SU5416 exposure of mice induced upregulation of Gremlin 1 mRNA in lung and right ventricle tissue compared with normoxic controls. Prophylactic treatment with an anti-Gremlin 1 neutralizing mAb reduced the hypoxic/SU5416-dependent increase in pulmonary vascular remodeling and right ventricular hypertrophy. Importantly, therapeutic treatment with an anti-Gremlin 1 antibody also reduced pulmonary vascular remodeling and right ventricular hypertrophy indicating a role for Gremlin 1 in the progression of the disease. We conclude that Gremlin 1 plays a role in the development and progression of pulmonary arterial hypertension in the murine hypoxia/SU5416 model, and that Gremlin 1 is a potential therapeutic target for pulmonary arterial hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loredana Ciuclan
- Respiratory Disease Area, Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Horsham, West Sussex, United Kingdom
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Gremlin activates the Smad pathway linked to epithelial mesenchymal transdifferentiation in cultured tubular epithelial cells. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2014; 2014:802841. [PMID: 24949470 PMCID: PMC4052161 DOI: 10.1155/2014/802841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2014] [Revised: 04/25/2014] [Accepted: 05/01/2014] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Gremlin is a developmental gene upregulated in human chronic kidney disease and in renal cells in response to transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β). Epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) is one process involved in renal fibrosis. In tubular epithelial cells we have recently described that Gremlin induces EMT and acts as a downstream TGF-β mediator. Our aim was to investigate whether Gremlin participates in EMT by the regulation of the Smad pathway. Stimulation of human tubular epithelial cells (HK2) with Gremlin caused an early activation of the Smad signaling pathway (Smad 2/3 phosphorylation, nuclear translocation, and Smad-dependent gene transcription). The blockade of TGF-β, by a neutralizing antibody against active TGF-β, did not modify Gremlin-induced early Smad activation. These data show that Gremlin directly, by a TGF-β independent process, activates the Smad pathway. In tubular epithelial cells long-term incubation with Gremlin increased TGF-β production and caused a sustained Smad activation and a phenotype conversion into myofibroblasts-like cells. Smad 7 overexpression, which blocks Smad 2/3 activation, diminished EMT changes observed in Gremlin-transfected tubuloepithelial cells. TGF-β neutralization also diminished Gremlin-induced EMT changes. In conclusion, we propose that Gremlin could participate in renal fibrosis by inducing EMT in tubular epithelial cells through activation of Smad pathway and induction of TGF-β.
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Afkarian M, Hirsch IB, Tuttle KR, Greenbaum C, Himmelfarb J, de Boer IH. Urinary excretion of RAS, BMP, and WNT pathway components in diabetic kidney disease. Physiol Rep 2014; 2:e12010. [PMID: 24793984 PMCID: PMC4098738 DOI: 10.14814/phy2.12010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The renin–angiotensin system (RAS), bone morphogenetic protein (BMP), and WNT pathways are involved in pathogenesis of diabetic kidney disease (DKD). This study characterized assays for urinary angiotensinogen (AGT), gremlin‐1, and matrix metalloproteinase 7 (MMP‐7), components of the RAS, BMP, and WNT pathways and examined their excretion in DKD. We measured urine AGT, gremlin‐1, and MMP‐7 in individuals with type 1 diabetes and prevalent DKD (n = 20) or longstanding (n = 61) or new‐onset (n = 10) type 1 diabetes without DKD. These urine proteins were also quantified in type 2 DKD (n = 11) before and after treatment with candesartan. The utilized immunoassays had comparable inter‐ and intra‐assay and intraindividual variation to assays used for urine albumin. Median (IQR) urine AGT concentrations were 226.0 (82.1, 550.3) and 13.0 (7.8, 20.0) μg/g creatinine in type 1 diabetes with and without DKD, respectively (P < 0.001). Median (IQR) urine gremlin‐1 concentrations were 48.6 (14.2, 254.1) and 3.6 (1.7, 5.5) μg/g, respectively (P < 0.001). Median (IQR) urine MMP‐7 concentrations were 6.0 (3.8, 10.5) and 1.0 (0.4, 2.9) μg/g creatinine, respectively (P < 0.001). Treatment with candesartan was associated with a reduction in median (IQR) urine AGT/creatinine from 23.5 (1.6, 105.1) to 2.0 (1.4, 13.7) μg/g, which did not reach statistical significance. Urine gremlin‐1 and MMP‐7 excretion did not decrease with candesartan. In conclusion, DKD is characterized by markedly elevated urine AGT, MMP‐7, and gremlin‐1. AGT decreased in response to RAS inhibition, suggesting that this marker reflects therapeutic response. Urinary components of the RAS, BMP, and WNT pathways may identify risk of DKD and aid development of novel therapeutics. Urine angiotensinogen, matrix metalloproteinase‐7, and gremlin‐1 concentrations are markedly elevated in people with type 1 diabetes and kidney disease, compared with those with recently diagnosed type 1 diabetes or longstanding type 1 diabetes without kidney disease. Treatment with an inhibitor of the renin–angiotensin system tended to reduce urine angiotensinogen concentration, but not urine matrix metalloproteinase‐7 or gremlin‐1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Afkarian
- Kidney Research Institute and Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
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Ma B, Kang Q, Qin L, Cui L, Pei C. TGF-β2 induces transdifferentiation and fibrosis in human lens epithelial cells via regulating gremlin and CTGF. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2014; 447:689-95. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2014.04.068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2014] [Accepted: 04/14/2014] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
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Li G, Li Y, Liu S, Shi Y, Chi Y, Liu G, Shan T. Gremlin aggravates hyperglycemia-induced podocyte injury by a TGFβ/smad dependent signaling pathway. J Cell Biochem 2013; 114:2101-13. [PMID: 23553804 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.24559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2013] [Accepted: 03/18/2013] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Gremlin is a bone morphogenic protein (BMP) antagonist and is elevated in diabetic kidney tissues. In the early course of diabetic nephropathy (DN), podocyte are injured. We studied the protein and gene expression of gremlin in mice podocytes cultured in hyperglycemia ambient. The role of gremlin on podocyte injury and the likely signaling pathways involved were determined. Expression of gremlin was visualized by confocal microscopy. Recombinant mouse gremlin and small interfering RNA (siRNA) targeting to gremlin1 identified the role played by gremlin on podocytes. Study of canonical (smad2/3) and non-canonical (p38MAPK and JNK1/2) transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ)/smad mediated signaling revealed the putative signaling mechanisms involved. Smad2/3 siRNA and TGFβ receptor inhibition (SB431542) were used to probe canonical TGFβ/smad signaling in gremlin-induced podocyte injury. Apoptosis of podocytes was measured by TUNEL assay. Gremlin expression was enhanced in high glucose cultured mouse podocytes, and was localized predominantly in the cytoplasm and negligibly on the cell membrane. Not only expression of nephrin and synaptopodin were decreased on treatment with gremlin, but also synaptopodin rearrangement and nephrin relocalization were evident. Knockdown gremlin1 or smad2/3 by siRNA, and inhibition of TGFβR (SB431542) attenuated podocyte injury. Inhibition of canonical TGF-β signal blocked the injury of gremlin on podocytes. In conclusion, gremlin was clearly elevated in high glucose cultured mouse podocytes, and likely employed endogenous canonical TGFβ1/Smad signaling to induce podocyte injury. Knockdown gremlin1 by siRNA may be clinically useful in the attenuation of podocyte injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guiying Li
- Department of Nephrology, Third Hospital, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050051, China
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Rodrigues-Diez R, Lavoz C, Carvajal G, Rayego-Mateos S, Rodrigues Diez RR, Ortiz A, Egido J, Mezzano S, Ruiz-Ortega M. Gremlin is a downstream profibrotic mediator of transforming growth factor-beta in cultured renal cells. Nephron Clin Pract 2013; 122:62-74. [PMID: 23548835 DOI: 10.1159/000346575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2012] [Accepted: 12/11/2012] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Chronic kidney disease is characterized by accumulation of extracellular matrix in the tubulointerstitial area. Fibroblasts are the main matrix-producing cells. One source of activated fibroblasts is the epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT). In cultured tubular epithelial cells, transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β1) induced Gremlin production associated with EMT phenotypic changes, and therefore Gremlin has been proposed as a downstream TGF-β1 mediator. Gremlin is a developmental gene upregulated in chronic kidney diseases associated with matrix accumulation, but its direct role in the modulation of renal fibrosis and its relation with TGF-β has not been investigated. METHODS Murine renal fibroblasts and human tubular epithelial cells were studied. Renal fibrosis was determined by evaluation of key profibrotic factors, extracellular matrix proteins (ECM) and EMT markers by Western blot/confocal microscopy or real-time PCR. Endogenous Gremlin was targeted with small interfering RNA. RESULTS In murine fibroblasts, stimulation with recombinant Gremlin upregulated profibrotic genes, such as TGF-β1, and augmented the production of ECM proteins, including type I collagen. The blockade of endogenous Gremlin with small interfering RNA inhibited TGF-β1-induced ECM upregulation. In tubular epithelial cells Gremlin also increased profibrotic genes and caused EMT changes: phenotypic modulation to myofibroblast-like morphology, loss of epithelial markers and in-duction of mesenchymal markers. Moreover, Gremlin gene silencing inhibited TGF-β1-induced EMT changes. CONCLUSIONS Gremlin directly activates profibrotic events in cul-tured renal fibroblasts and tubular epithelial cells. Moreover, endogenous Gremlin blockade inhibited TGF-β-mediated matrix production and EMT, suggesting that Gremlin could be a novel therapeutic target for renal fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raquel Rodrigues-Diez
- Cellular Biology in Renal Diseases Laboratory, Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma, Madrid, Spain
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Huang H, Huang H, Li Y, Liu M, Shi Y, Chi Y, Zhang T. Gremlin induces cell proliferation and extra cellular matrix accumulation in mouse mesangial cells exposed to high glucose via the ERK1/2 pathway. BMC Nephrol 2013; 14:33. [PMID: 23394397 PMCID: PMC3572428 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2369-14-33] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2012] [Accepted: 02/06/2013] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Gremlin, a bone morphogenetic protein antagonist, plays an important role in the pathogenesis of diabetic nephropathy (DN). However, the specific molecular mechanism underlying Gremlin’s involvement in DN has not been fully elucidated. In the present study, we investigated the role of Gremlin on cell proliferation and accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) in mouse mesangial cells (MMCs), and explored the relationship between Gremlin and the ERK1/2 pathway. Methods To determine expression of Gremlin in MMCs after high glucose (HG) exposure, Gremlin mRNA and protein expression were evaluated using real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blot analysis, respectively. To determine the role of Gremlin on cell proliferation and accumulation of ECM, western blot analysis was used to assess expression of pERK1/2, transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF). Cell proliferation was examined by bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) ELISA, and accumulation of collagen IV was measured using a radioimmunoassay. This enabled the relationship between Gremlin and ERK1/2 pathway activation to be investigated. Results HG exposure induced expression of Gremlin, which peaked 12 h after HG exposure. HG exposure alone or transfection of normal-glucose (NG) exposed MMCs with Gremlin plasmid (NG + P) increased cell proliferation. Transfection with Gremlin plasmid into MMCs previously exposed to HG (HG + P) significantly increased this HG-induced phenomenon. HG and NG + P conditions up-regulated protein levels of TGF-β1, CTGF and collagen IV accumulation, while HG + P significantly increased levels of these further. Inhibition of Gremlin with Gremlin siRNA plasmid reversed the HG-induced phenomena. These data indicate that Gremlin can induce cell proliferation and accumulation of ECM in MMCs. HG also induced the activation of the ERK1/2 pathway, which peaked 24 h after HG exposure. HG and NG + P conditions induced overexpression of pERK1/2, whilst HG + P significantly induced levels further. Inhibition of Gremlin by Gremlin siRNA plasmid reversed the HG-induced phenomena. This indicates Gremlin can induce activation of the ERK1/2 pathway in MMCs. Conclusion Culture of MMCs in the presence of HG up-regulates expression of Gremlin. Gremlin induces cell proliferation and accumulation of ECM in MMCs. and enhances activation of the ERK1/2 pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haixia Huang
- Department of Nephropathy, The Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050051, China
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Yanagita M. Inhibitors/antagonists of TGF- system in kidney fibrosis. Nephrol Dial Transplant 2012; 27:3686-91. [DOI: 10.1093/ndt/gfs381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
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Gremlin-mediated decrease in bone morphogenetic protein signaling promotes aristolochic acid-induced epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in HK-2 cells. Toxicology 2012; 297:68-75. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2012.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2012] [Revised: 04/05/2012] [Accepted: 04/07/2012] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Curran SP, Hickey FB, Watson A, Godson C, Brazil DP. Deletion of Gremlin1 increases cell proliferation and migration responses in mouse embryonic fibroblasts. Cell Signal 2012; 24:889-98. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2011.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2011] [Revised: 11/14/2011] [Accepted: 12/04/2011] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
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Abstract
Mesangial cells originate from the metanephric mesenchyme and maintain structural integrity of the glomerular microvascular bed and mesangial matrix homeostasis. In response to metabolic, immunologic or hemodynamic injury, these cells undergo apoptosis or acquire an activated phenotype and undergo hypertrophy, proliferation with excessive production of matrix proteins, growth factors, chemokines and cytokines. These soluble factors exert autocrine and paracrine effects on the cells or on other glomerular cells, respectively. MCs are primary targets of immune-mediated glomerular diseases such as IGA nephropathy or metabolic diseases such as diabetes. MCs may also respond to injury that primarily involves podocytes and endothelial cells or to structural and genetic abnormalities of the glomerular basement membrane. Signal transduction and oxidant stress pathways are activated in MCs and likely represent integrated input from multiple mediators. Such responses are convenient targets for therapeutic intervention. Studies in cultured MCs should be supplemented with in vivo studies as well as examination of freshly isolated cells from normal and diseases glomeruli. In addition to ex vivo morphologic studies in kidney cortex, cells should be studied in their natural environment, isolated glomeruli or even tissue slices. Identification of a specific marker of MCs should help genetic manipulation as well as selective therapeutic targeting of these cells. Identification of biological responses of MCs that are not mediated by the renin-angiotensin system should help development of novel and effective therapeutic strategies to treat diseases characterized by MC pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanna E Abboud
- University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA.
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Sethi A, Jain A, Zode GS, Wordinger RJ, Clark AF. Role of TGFbeta/Smad signaling in gremlin induction of human trabecular meshwork extracellular matrix proteins. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2011; 52:5251-9. [PMID: 21642622 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.11-7587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The bone morphogenic protein (BMP) antagonist gremlin is elevated in glaucomatous trabecular meshwork (TM) cells and tissues and elevates intraocular pressure (IOP). Gremlin also blocks BMP4 inhibition of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β2 induction of TM extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins. The purpose of this study was to determine whether Gremlin regulates ECM proteins in cultured human TM cells. METHODS Human TM cells were treated with recombinant gremlin to determine the effects on ECM gene and protein expression. Expression of the ECM genes FN, COL1, PAI1, and ELN was examined in cultured human TM cells by quantitative RT-PCR and Western immunoblot analysis. TM cells were pretreated with TGFBR inhibitors (LY364947, SB431542 or TGFBR1/TGFB2 siRNAs), inhibitors of the Smad signaling pathway (SIS3 or Smad2/3/4 siRNAs), or CTGF siRNA to identify the signaling pathway(s) involved in gremlin induction of ECM gene and protein expression. RESULTS All ECM genes analyzed (FN, COL1, PAI1, and ELN) were induced by gremlin. This gremlin induction of ECM genes and protein expression was blocked by inhibitors of TGFBR and the canonical Smad2/3/4 and CTGF signaling pathways. CONCLUSIONS Gremlin employs canonical TGFβ2/Smad signaling to induce ECM genes and proteins in cultured human TM cells. Gremlin also induces both TGFβ2 and CTGF, which can act downstream to mediate some of these ECM changes in TM cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anirudh Sethi
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, North Texas Eye Research Institute, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, Texas 76107, USA
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Gonçalves A, Zeller R. Genetic analysis reveals an unexpected role of BMP7 in initiation of ureteric bud outgrowth in mouse embryos. PLoS One 2011; 6:e19370. [PMID: 21552539 PMCID: PMC3084290 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0019370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2010] [Accepted: 04/04/2011] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Genetic analysis in the mouse revealed that GREMLIN1 (GREM1)-mediated antagonism of BMP4 is essential for ureteric epithelial branching as the disruption of ureteric bud outgrowth and renal agenesis in Grem1-deficient embryos is restored by additional inactivation of one Bmp4 allele. Another BMP ligand, BMP7, was shown to control the proliferative expansion of nephrogenic progenitors and its requirement for nephrogenesis can be genetically substituted by Bmp4. Therefore, we investigated whether BMP7 in turn also participates in inhibiting ureteric bud outgrowth during the initiation of metanephric kidney development. Methodology/Principal Findings Genetic inactivation of one Bmp7 allele in Grem1-deficient mouse embryos does not alleviate the bilateral renal agenesis, while complete inactivation of Bmp7 restores ureteric bud outgrowth and branching. In mouse embryos lacking both Grem1 and Bmp7, GDNF/WNT11 feedback signaling and the expression of the Etv4 target gene, which regulates formation of the invading ureteric bud tip, are restored. In contrast to the restoration of ureteric bud outgrowth and branching, nephrogenesis remains aberrant as revealed by the premature loss of Six2 expressing nephrogenic progenitor cells. Therefore, very few nephrons develop in kidneys lacking both Grem1 and Bmp7 and the resulting dysplastic phenotype is indistinguishable from the one of Bmp7-deficient mouse embryos. Conclusions/Significance Our study reveals an unexpected inhibitory role of BMP7 during the onset of ureteric bud outgrowth. As BMP4, BMP7 and GREM1 are expressed in distinct mesenchymal and epithelial domains, the localized antagonistic interactions of GREM1 with BMPs could restrict and guide ureteric bud outgrowth and branching. The robustness and likely significant redundancy of the underlying signaling system is evidenced by the fact that global reduction of Bmp4 or inactivation of Bmp7 are both able to restore ureteric bud outgrowth and epithelial branching in Grem1-deficient mouse embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre Gonçalves
- Developmental Genetics, Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel Medical Faculty, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Rolf Zeller
- Developmental Genetics, Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel Medical Faculty, Basel, Switzerland
- * E-mail:
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