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de La Bourdonnaye G, Ghazalova T, Fojtik P, Kutalkova K, Bednar D, Damborsky J, Rotrekl V, Stepankova V, Chaloupkova R. Computer-aided engineering of stabilized fibroblast growth factor 21. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2024; 23:942-951. [PMID: 38379823 PMCID: PMC10877085 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2024.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
FGF21 is an endocrine signaling protein belonging to the family of fibroblast growth factors (FGFs). It has emerged as a molecule of interest for treating various metabolic diseases due to its role in regulating glucogenesis and ketogenesis in the liver. However, FGF21 is prone to heat, proteolytic, and acid-mediated degradation, and its low molecular weight makes it susceptible to kidney clearance, significantly reducing its therapeutic potential. Protein engineering studies addressing these challenges have generally shown that increasing the thermostability of FGF21 led to improved pharmacokinetics. Here, we describe the computer-aided design and experimental characterization of FGF21 variants with enhanced melting temperature up to 15 °C, uncompromised efficacy at activation of MAPK/ERK signaling in Hep G2 cell culture, and ability to stimulate proliferation of Hep G2 and NIH 3T3 fibroblasts cells comparable with FGF21-WT. We propose that stabilizing the FGF21 molecule by rational design should be combined with other reported stabilization strategies to maximize the pharmaceutical potential of FGF21.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabin de La Bourdonnaye
- Department of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
- Enantis Ltd., Biotechnology Incubator INBIT, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Tereza Ghazalova
- Enantis Ltd., Biotechnology Incubator INBIT, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Petr Fojtik
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | | | - David Bednar
- Department of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
- Loschmidt Laboratories, Centre for Toxic Compounds in the Environment RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
- International Clinical Research Center, St. Anne's University Hospital, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jiri Damborsky
- Department of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
- Loschmidt Laboratories, Centre for Toxic Compounds in the Environment RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
- International Clinical Research Center, St. Anne's University Hospital, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Vladimir Rotrekl
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
- International Clinical Research Center, St. Anne's University Hospital, Brno, Czech Republic
| | | | - Radka Chaloupkova
- Department of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
- Enantis Ltd., Biotechnology Incubator INBIT, Brno, Czech Republic
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Heng Y, Wei W, Cheng L, Wu F, Dong H, Li J, Fu J, Yang B, Liang X, Liu C, Li H, Liu H, Zhang P. FGF21 overexpression alleviates VSMC senescence in diabetic mice by modulating the SYK-NLRP3 inflammasome-PPARγ-catalase pathway. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2024; 56:892-904. [PMID: 38733164 DOI: 10.3724/abbs.2024032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Diabetes accelerates vascular senescence, which is the basis for atherosclerosis and stiffness. The activation of the NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome and oxidative stress are closely associated with progressive senescence in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). The vascular protective effect of FGF21 has gradually gained increasing attention, but its role in diabetes-induced vascular senescence needs further investigation. In this study, diabetic mice and primary VSMCs are transfected with an FGF21 activation plasmid and treated with a peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) agonist (rosiglitazone), an NLRP3 inhibitor (MCC950), and a spleen tyrosine kinase (SYK)-specific inhibitor, R406, to detect senescence-associated markers. We find that FGF21 overexpression significantly restores the level of catalase (CAT), vascular relaxation, inhibits the intensity of ROSgreen fluorescence and p21 immunofluorescence, and reduces the area of SA-β-gal staining and collagen deposition in the aortas of diabetic mice. FGF21 overexpression restores CAT, inhibits the expression of p21, and limits the area of SA-β-gal staining in VSMCs under high glucose conditions. Mechanistically, FGF21 inhibits SYK phosphorylation, the production of the NLRP3 dimer, the expression of NLRP3, and the colocalization of NLRP3 with PYCARD (ASC), as well as NLRP3 with caspase-1, to reverse the cleavage of PPARγ, preserve CAT levels, suppress ROSgreen density, and reduce the expression of p21 in VSMCs under high glucose conditions. Our results suggest that FGF21 alleviates vascular senescence by regulating the SYK-NLRP3 inflammasome-PPARγ-catalase pathway in diabetic mice.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- NLR Family, Pyrin Domain-Containing 3 Protein/metabolism
- NLR Family, Pyrin Domain-Containing 3 Protein/genetics
- Syk Kinase/metabolism
- Syk Kinase/genetics
- PPAR gamma/metabolism
- PPAR gamma/genetics
- Muscle, Smooth, Vascular/metabolism
- Muscle, Smooth, Vascular/pathology
- Inflammasomes/metabolism
- Mice
- Diabetes Mellitus, Experimental/metabolism
- Diabetes Mellitus, Experimental/genetics
- Diabetes Mellitus, Experimental/pathology
- Cellular Senescence
- Male
- Signal Transduction
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Fibroblast Growth Factors/metabolism
- Fibroblast Growth Factors/genetics
- Myocytes, Smooth Muscle/metabolism
- Myocytes, Smooth Muscle/pathology
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanyan Heng
- Department of Nephrology, Heping Hospital Affiliated to Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi 046000, China
| | - Wei Wei
- Department of Pharmacology, Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi 046000, China
- Department of Endocrinology, Heping Hospital Affiliated to Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi 046000, China
- Department of Clinical Central Laboratory, Heping Hospital Affiliated to Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi 046000, China
| | - Linzhong Cheng
- Department of National Institute for Clinical Trials of Drugs and Phase I Clinical Trial Laboratory, Heping Hospital Affiliated to Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi 046000, China
| | - Feifei Wu
- Department of Endocrinology, Heping Hospital Affiliated to Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi 046000, China
| | - Haoyu Dong
- Department of Endocrinology, Heping Hospital Affiliated to Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi 046000, China
| | - Jingxia Li
- Department of Anesthesia, Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi 046000, China
| | - Jianing Fu
- Department of Stomatology, Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi 046000, China
| | - Bingjie Yang
- Department of Stomatology, Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi 046000, China
| | - Xinyue Liang
- Department of Medical Imageology, Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi 046000, China
| | - Chunyan Liu
- Department of Anesthesia, Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi 046000, China
| | - Haiju Li
- Department of Pharmacology, Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi 046000, China
- Department of National Institute for Clinical Trials of Drugs and Phase I Clinical Trial Laboratory, Heping Hospital Affiliated to Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi 046000, China
| | - Haihua Liu
- Department of Endocrinology, Heping Hospital Affiliated to Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi 046000, China
| | - Pengfei Zhang
- Department of Nephrology, Heping Hospital Affiliated to Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi 046000, China
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Phan P, Sonnaila S, Ternier G, Edirisinghe O, Okoto PS, Kumar TKS. Overexpression and Purification of Mitogenic and Metabolic Fibroblast Growth Factors. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2762:151-181. [PMID: 38315365 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3666-4_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Fibroblast growth factors (FGFs) are proteins with a vast array of biological activity, such as cell development and repair, glucose and bile acid metabolisms, and wound healing. Due to their critical and diverse physiological functions, FGFs are believed to possess potential as therapeutic agents for many diseases and conditions that warrant further investigations. Thus, a simple, cost-efficient method to purify these biologically active signaling proteins is desirable. Herein, we introduce such techniques to purify FGFs that possess either high heparin-binding affinity or low to no heparin-binding affinity. This method takes advantage of the high affinity toward heparin sulfate from paracrine FGF1 to isolate the targeted protein. It also accounts for FGF members that have low heparin affinity, such as the metabolic FGFs, by introducing poly-histidine tags in the recombinant protein in combination with the immobilized metal affinity chromatography. Subsequently, the purified FGF products are separated from the other small protein by high-speed centrifugation. Products are then subjected to other biophysical experiments like SDS-PAGE, mass spectrometry, circular dichroism, intrinsic fluorescence, isothermal titration calorimetry, differential scanning calorimetry, and biological cell activity assay to confirm that the target proteins are purified with intact native conformation and no significant change in the intrinsic characteristics and biological activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phuc Phan
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, USA
| | - Shivakumar Sonnaila
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, USA
| | - Gaetane Ternier
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, USA
| | - Oshadi Edirisinghe
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, USA
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Wei L, Ye X, Cui S, Li D, Zhu S. Double knockout of FFAR4 and FGF21 aggravates metabolic disorders in mice. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 253:126553. [PMID: 37657572 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.126553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/03/2023]
Abstract
Several investigations have examined the involvement of free fatty acid receptor 4 (FFAR4) in metabolic disorders, but its action remains controversial. To investigate whether endogenous fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21)-mediated signaling controls the metabolic status in FFAR4-deficient mice, we generated FFAR4/FGF21 double knockout (DKO) mice. We also evaluated the role of FGF21 on glucose and lipid metabolism in FFAR4 KO mice fed a high-fat diet. Levels of FGF21 were significantly increased in FFAR4-deficient mice and double deletion of FGF21 and FFAR4 led to severe metabolic disorders. Additionally, FFAR4/FGF21 DKO mice displayed metabolic abnormalities that may be caused by decreased energy expenditure. Collectively, this study characterized the effects of endogenous FGF21, which acts as a master feedback regulator in the absence of FFAR4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lengyun Wei
- School of Life Science, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Xianlong Ye
- Ganjiang Chinese Medicine Innovation Center, Nanchang 330000, China
| | - Siyuan Cui
- Jiangnan University Medical Center, Wuxi, China
| | - Dashuai Li
- School of Life Science, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Shenglong Zhu
- Jiangnan University Medical Center, Wuxi, China; Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China.
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Wasilewska M, Dąbkowska M, Pomorska A, Batys P, Kowalski B, Michna A, Adamczyk Z. Mechanisms of Fibroblast Growth Factor 21 Adsorption on Macroion Layers: Molecular Dynamics Modeling and Kinetic Measurements. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1709. [PMID: 38136581 PMCID: PMC10741725 DOI: 10.3390/biom13121709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Molecular dynamic modeling and various experimental techniques, including multi-angle dynamic light scattering (MADLS), streaming potential, optical waveguide light spectroscopy (OWLS), quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation (QCM), and atomic force microscopy (AFM), were applied to determine the basic physicochemical parameters of fibroblast growth factor 21 in electrolyte solutions. The protein size and shape, cross-section area, dependence of the nominal charge on pH, and isoelectric point of 5.3 were acquired. These data enabled the interpretation of the adsorption kinetics of FGF 21 on bare and macrocation-covered silica investigated by OWLS and QCM. It was confirmed that the protein molecules irreversibly adsorbed on the latter substrate, forming layers with controlled coverage up to 0.8 mg m-2, while their adsorption on bare silica was much smaller. The viability of two cell lines, CHO-K1 and L-929, on both bare and macrocation/FGF 21-covered substrates was also determined. It is postulated that the acquired results can serve as useful reference systems for designing complexes that can extend the half-life of FGF 21 in its active state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Wasilewska
- Jerzy Haber Institute of Catalysis and Surface Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Niezapominajek 8, 30-239 Krakow, Poland; (M.W.); (A.P.); (P.B.)
| | - Maria Dąbkowska
- Independent Laboratory of Pharmacokinetic and Clinical Pharmacy, Pomeranian Medical University, Rybacka 1, 70-204 Szczecin, Poland; (M.D.); (B.K.)
| | - Agata Pomorska
- Jerzy Haber Institute of Catalysis and Surface Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Niezapominajek 8, 30-239 Krakow, Poland; (M.W.); (A.P.); (P.B.)
| | - Piotr Batys
- Jerzy Haber Institute of Catalysis and Surface Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Niezapominajek 8, 30-239 Krakow, Poland; (M.W.); (A.P.); (P.B.)
| | - Bogusław Kowalski
- Independent Laboratory of Pharmacokinetic and Clinical Pharmacy, Pomeranian Medical University, Rybacka 1, 70-204 Szczecin, Poland; (M.D.); (B.K.)
| | - Aneta Michna
- Jerzy Haber Institute of Catalysis and Surface Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Niezapominajek 8, 30-239 Krakow, Poland; (M.W.); (A.P.); (P.B.)
| | - Zbigniew Adamczyk
- Jerzy Haber Institute of Catalysis and Surface Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Niezapominajek 8, 30-239 Krakow, Poland; (M.W.); (A.P.); (P.B.)
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Su J, Luo Y, Hu S, Tang L, Ouyang S. Advances in Research on Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Targets and Therapeutic Agents. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13381. [PMID: 37686185 PMCID: PMC10487533 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241713381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus is a chronic multifaceted disease with multiple potential complications, the treatment of which can only delay and prolong the terminal stage of the disease, i.e., type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The World Health Organization predicts that diabetes will be the seventh leading cause of death by 2030. Although many antidiabetic medicines have been successfully developed in recent years, such as GLP-1 receptor agonists and SGLT-2 inhibitors, single-target drugs are gradually failing to meet the therapeutic requirements owing to the individual variability, diversity of pathogenesis, and organismal resistance. Therefore, there remains a need to investigate the pathogenesis of T2DM in more depth, identify multiple therapeutic targets, and provide improved glycemic control solutions. This review presents an overview of the mechanisms of action and the development of the latest therapeutic agents targeting T2DM in recent years. It also discusses emerging target-based therapies and new potential therapeutic targets that have emerged within the last three years. The aim of our review is to provide a theoretical basis for further advancement in targeted therapies for T2DM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingqian Su
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou 350117, China; (J.S.); (Y.L.); (S.H.); (L.T.)
- Provincial University Key Laboratory of Microbial Pathogenesis and Interventions, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou 350117, China
- Provincial University Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Response and Metabolic Regulation, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou 350117, China
| | - Yingsheng Luo
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou 350117, China; (J.S.); (Y.L.); (S.H.); (L.T.)
- Provincial University Key Laboratory of Microbial Pathogenesis and Interventions, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou 350117, China
- Provincial University Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Response and Metabolic Regulation, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou 350117, China
| | - Shan Hu
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou 350117, China; (J.S.); (Y.L.); (S.H.); (L.T.)
- Provincial University Key Laboratory of Microbial Pathogenesis and Interventions, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou 350117, China
- Provincial University Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Response and Metabolic Regulation, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou 350117, China
| | - Lu Tang
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou 350117, China; (J.S.); (Y.L.); (S.H.); (L.T.)
- Provincial University Key Laboratory of Microbial Pathogenesis and Interventions, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou 350117, China
- Provincial University Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Response and Metabolic Regulation, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou 350117, China
| | - Songying Ouyang
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou 350117, China; (J.S.); (Y.L.); (S.H.); (L.T.)
- Provincial University Key Laboratory of Microbial Pathogenesis and Interventions, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou 350117, China
- Provincial University Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Response and Metabolic Regulation, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou 350117, China
- Key Laboratory of OptoElectronic Science and Technology for Medicine of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou 350117, China
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Zhu H, Liu D, Sui M, Zhou M, Wang B, Qi Q, Wang T, Zhang G, Wan F, Zhang B. CRISPRa-based activation of Fgf21 and Fndc5 ameliorates obesity by promoting adipocytes browning. Clin Transl Med 2023; 13:e1326. [PMID: 37462619 PMCID: PMC10353577 DOI: 10.1002/ctm2.1326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Skeletal muscle-secreted myokines widely participate in lipids metabolism through autocrine, paracrine and endocrine actions. The myokines represented by FGF21 and Irisin can promote the browning of adipocytes and serve as promising targets for treating obesity. Although recombinant myokines replacement therapy and AAV (adeno-associated virus)-based myokines overexpression have shown a definite effect in ameliorating obesity, novel myokine activation strategies with higher efficacy and safety are still in pressing need. This study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic potential of a novel CRISPR-based myokines activation strategy in obesity treatments. METHODS In this study, we used lentivirus and a single AAV vector containing dCas9-VP64 with a single-guide RNA to selectively activate Fgf21 and Fndc5 expression in skeletal muscles both in vitro and in vivo. The activation efficacy of the CRISPRa system was determined by qRT-PCR, Western blotting and ELISA. The treatment effect of CRISPR-based myokines activation was tested in 3T3-L1-derived adipocytes and diet-induced obese (DIO) mice (male C57BL/6 mice, induced at 6-week-old for 10 weeks). RESULTS The virus upregulates myokines expression in both mRNA and protein levels of muscle cells in vitro and in vivo. Myokines secreted by muscle cells promoted browning of 3T3-L1-derived adipocytes. In vivo activation of myokines by AAVs can reduce body weight and fat mass, increase the adipocytes browning and improve glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity in DIO mice. CONCLUSIONS Our study provides a novel CRISPR-based myokines activation strategy that can ameliorate obesity by promoting adipocytes browning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongtao Zhu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- The Institute for Brain Research, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Dan Liu
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- The Institute for Brain Research, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ming Sui
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- The Institute for Brain Research, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Meiling Zhou
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- The Institute for Brain Research, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Beibei Wang
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- The Institute for Brain Research, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Qinqin Qi
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- The Institute for Brain Research, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ting Wang
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- The Institute for Brain Research, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Guo Zhang
- The Institute for Brain Research, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Health, Ministry of Education, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Feng Wan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bin Zhang
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- The Institute for Brain Research, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Drug Target Research and Pharmacodynamic Evaluation, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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Yang L, Nao J. Focus on Alzheimer's Disease: The Role of Fibroblast Growth Factor 21 and Autophagy. Neuroscience 2023; 511:13-28. [PMID: 36372296 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2022.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a disorder of the central nervous system that is typically marked by progressive cognitive impairment and memory loss. Amyloid β plaque deposition and neurofibrillary tangles with hyperphosphorylated tau are the two hallmark pathologies of AD. In mammalian cells, autophagy clears aberrant protein aggregates, thus maintaining proteostasis as well as neuronal health. Autophagy affects production and metabolism of amyloid β and accumulation of phosphorylated tau proteins, whose malfunction can lead to the progression of AD. On the other hand, defective autophagy has been found to induce the production of the neuroprotective factor fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21), although the underlying mechanism is unclear. In this review, we highlight the significance of aberrant autophagy in the pathogenesis of AD, discuss the possible mechanisms by which defective autophagy induces FGF21 production, and analyze the potential of FGF21 in the treatment of AD. The findings provide some insights into the potential role of FGF21 and autophagy in the pathogenesis of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lan Yang
- Department of Neurology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China
| | - Jianfei Nao
- Department of Neurology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China.
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Tan H, Yue T, Chen Z, Wu W, Xu S, Weng J. Targeting FGF21 in cardiovascular and metabolic diseases: from mechanism to medicine. Int J Biol Sci 2023; 19:66-88. [PMID: 36594101 PMCID: PMC9760446 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.73936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular and metabolic disease (CVMD) is becoming increasingly prevalent in developed and developing countries with high morbidity and mortality. In recent years, fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) has attracted intensive research interest due to its purported role as a potential biomarker and critical player in CVMDs, including atherosclerosis, coronary artery disease, myocardial infarction, hypoxia/reoxygenation injury, heart failure, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. This review summarizes the recent developments in investigating the role of FGF21 in CVMDs and explores the mechanism whereby FGF21 regulates the development of CVMDs. Novel molecular targets and related pathways of FGF21 (adenosine 5'-monophosphate-activated protein kinase, silent information regulator 1, autophagy-related molecules, and gut microbiota-related molecules) are highlighted in this review. Considering the poor pharmacokinetics and biophysical properties of native FGF21, the development of new generations of FGF21-based drugs has tremendous therapeutic potential. Related preclinical and clinical studies are also summarized in this review to foster clinical translation. Thus, our review provides a timely and insightful overview of the physiology, biomarker potential, molecular targets, and therapeutic potential of FGF21 in CVMDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiling Tan
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Clinical Research Hospital of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Hefei), University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, China
| | - Tong Yue
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Clinical Research Hospital of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Hefei), University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, China
| | - Zhengfang Chen
- Changshu Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University, Changshu No.1 People's Hospital, Changshu 215500, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Weiming Wu
- Changshu Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Changshu, China
| | - Suowen Xu
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Clinical Research Hospital of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Hefei), University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, China.,✉ Corresponding authors: E-mail: ;
| | - Jianping Weng
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Clinical Research Hospital of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Hefei), University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, China.,✉ Corresponding authors: E-mail: ;
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Martins FF, Souza-Mello V, Aguila MB, Mandarim-de-Lacerda CA. Brown adipose tissue as an endocrine organ: updates on the emerging role of batokines. Horm Mol Biol Clin Investig 2022:hmbci-2022-0044. [DOI: 10.1515/hmbci-2022-0044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Brown adipose tissue (BAT) remains active in adults, oxidizing fatty acids or glucose and releasing energy in the form of heat. Brown adipocytes and enhanced thermogenesis are targets for treating obesity and its comorbidities. BAT shows high synthesis activity and secretes several signaling molecules. The brown adipokines, or batokines, take action in an autocrine, paracrine, and endocrine manner. Batokines have a role in the homeostasis of the cardiovascular system, central nervous system, white adipose tissue, liver, and skeletal muscle and exert beneficial effects on BAT. The systemic function of batokines gives BAT an endocrine organ profile. Besides, the batokines Fibroblast Growth Factor-21, Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A, Bone Morphogenetic Protein 8, Neuregulin 4, Myostatin, and Interleukin-6 emerge as targets to treat obesity and its comorbidities, deserving attention. This review outlines the role of six emerging batokines on BAT and their cross-talk with other organs, focusing on their physiological significance and diet-induced changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabiane Ferreira Martins
- Laboratory of Morphometry, Metabolism, and Cardiovascular Diseases , Biomedical Center, Institute of Biology, The University of the State of Rio de Janeiro , Rio de Janeiro , Brazil
| | - Vanessa Souza-Mello
- Laboratory of Morphometry, Metabolism, and Cardiovascular Diseases , Biomedical Center, Institute of Biology, The University of the State of Rio de Janeiro , Rio de Janeiro , Brazil
| | - Marcia Barbosa Aguila
- Laboratory of Morphometry, Metabolism, and Cardiovascular Diseases , Biomedical Center, Institute of Biology, The University of the State of Rio de Janeiro , Rio de Janeiro , Brazil
| | - Carlos Alberto Mandarim-de-Lacerda
- Laboratory of Morphometry, Metabolism, and Cardiovascular Diseases , Biomedical Center, Institute of Biology, The University of the State of Rio de Janeiro , Rio de Janeiro , Brazil
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SUI Y, CHEN J. Hepatic FGF21: Its Emerging Role in Inter-Organ Crosstalk and Cancers. Int J Biol Sci 2022; 18:5928-5942. [PMID: 36263162 PMCID: PMC9576513 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.76924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibroblast growth factor (FGF) 21 is one of the FGF members with special endocrine properties. In the last twenty years, it has attracted intense research and development for its physiological functions that respond to dietary manipulation, pharmacological benefits of improving the macronutrient metabolism, and clinical values as a biomarker of various human diseases. Generally, FGF21 can be produced by major metabolic organs, but only the subgroup from the liver shows canonical endocrine properties, which emphasizes the special value of delineating the unique secretory and functional characteristics of hepatic FGF21. There has been a growth in literature to address the extra-hepatic activities of FGF21, and many striking findings have therefore been published. Yet, they are fragmented and scattered, and controversies are raised from divergent findings. For this reason, there is a need for a systematic and critical evaluation of current research in this aspect. In this review, we focus on the current knowledge about the molecular biology of endocrine FGF21, especially present details on the regulation of circulating levels of FGF21. We also emphasize its emerging roles in inter-organ crosstalk and cancer development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue SUI
- School of Chinese Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, China
| | - Jianping CHEN
- School of Chinese Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, China.,Shenzhen Institute of Research and Innovation, The University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China.,✉ Corresponding author: Jianping CHEN, School of Chinese Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, China. Work Telephone Numbers +852-39176479; Fax Numbers 21684259; E-mail:
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Zhang Y, Liu D, Long XX, Fang QC, Jia WP, Li HT. The role of FGF21 in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease. Chin Med J (Engl) 2021; 134:2931-2943. [PMID: 34939977 PMCID: PMC8710326 DOI: 10.1097/cm9.0000000000001890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT The morbidity and mortality of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are increasing worldwide and seriously threaten human life and health. Fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21), a metabolic regulator, regulates glucose and lipid metabolism and may exert beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system. In recent years, FGF21 has been found to act directly on the cardiovascular system and may be used as an early biomarker of CVDs. The present review highlights the recent progress in understanding the relationship between FGF21 and CVDs including coronary heart disease, myocardial ischemia, cardiomyopathy, and heart failure and also explores the related mechanism of the cardioprotective effect of FGF21. FGF21 plays an important role in the prediction, treatment, and improvement of prognosis in CVDs. This cardioprotective effect of FGF21 may be achieved by preventing endothelial dysfunction and lipid accumulating, inhibiting cardiomyocyte apoptosis and regulating the associated oxidative stress, inflammation and autophagy. In conclusion, FGF21 is a promising target for the treatment of CVDs, however, its clinical application requires further clarification of the precise role of FGF21 in CVDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Shanghai Diabetes Institute, Shanghai Clinical Center for Diabetes, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Diabetes Mellitus, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, 600 Yishan Road, Shanghai 200233, China
- Department of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200233, China
| | - Dan Liu
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Shanghai Diabetes Institute, Shanghai Clinical Center for Diabetes, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Diabetes Mellitus, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, 600 Yishan Road, Shanghai 200233, China
- Department of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200233, China
| | - Xiao-Xue Long
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Shanghai Diabetes Institute, Shanghai Clinical Center for Diabetes, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Diabetes Mellitus, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, 600 Yishan Road, Shanghai 200233, China
- Department of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200233, China
| | - Qi-Chen Fang
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Shanghai Diabetes Institute, Shanghai Clinical Center for Diabetes, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Diabetes Mellitus, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, 600 Yishan Road, Shanghai 200233, China
| | - Wei-Ping Jia
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Shanghai Diabetes Institute, Shanghai Clinical Center for Diabetes, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Diabetes Mellitus, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, 600 Yishan Road, Shanghai 200233, China
| | - Hua-Ting Li
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Shanghai Diabetes Institute, Shanghai Clinical Center for Diabetes, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Diabetes Mellitus, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, 600 Yishan Road, Shanghai 200233, China
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Abstract
Fibroblast growth factors (FGFs) are cell-signaling proteins with diverse functions in cell development, repair, and metabolism. The human FGF family consists of 22 structurally related members, which can be classified into three separate groups based on their action of mechanisms, namely: intracrine, paracrine/autocrine, and endocrine FGF subfamilies. FGF19, FGF21, and FGF23 belong to the hormone-like/endocrine FGF subfamily. These endocrine FGFs are mainly associated with the regulation of cell metabolic activities such as homeostasis of lipids, glucose, energy, bile acids, and minerals (phosphate/active vitamin D). Endocrine FGFs function through a unique protein family called klotho. Two members of this family, α-klotho, or β-klotho, act as main cofactors which can scaffold to tether FGF19/21/23 to their receptor(s) (FGFRs) to form an active complex. There are ongoing studies pertaining to the structure and mechanism of these individual ternary complexes. These studies aim to provide potential insights into the physiological and pathophysiological roles and therapeutic strategies for metabolic diseases. Herein, we provide a comprehensive review of the history, structure–function relationship(s), downstream signaling, physiological roles, and future perspectives on endocrine FGFs.
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Nauck MA, Wefers J, Meier JJ. Treatment of type 2 diabetes: challenges, hopes, and anticipated successes. Lancet Diabetes Endocrinol 2021; 9:525-544. [PMID: 34181914 DOI: 10.1016/s2213-8587(21)00113-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Revised: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Despite the successful development of new therapies for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, such as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists and sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors, the search for novel treatment options that can provide better glycaemic control and at reduce complications is a continuous effort. The present Review aims to present an overview of novel targets and mechanisms and focuses on glucose-lowering effects guiding this search and developments. We discuss not only novel developments of insulin therapy (eg, so-called smart insulin preparation with a glucose-dependent mode of action), but also a group of drug classes for which extensive research efforts have not been rewarded with obvious clinical impact. We discuss the potential clinical use of the salutary adipokine adiponectin and the hepatokine fibroblast growth factor (FGF) 21, among others. A GLP-1 peptide receptor agonist (semaglutide) is now available for oral absorption, and small molecules activating GLP-1 receptors appear on the horizon. Bariatric surgery and its accompanying changes in the gut hormonal milieu offer a background for unimolecular peptides interacting with two or more receptors (for GLP-1, glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide, glucagon, and peptide YY) and provide more substantial glycaemic control and bodyweight reduction compared with selective GLP-1 receptor agonists. These and additional approaches will help expand the toolbox of effective medications needed for optimising the treatment of well delineated subgroups of type 2 diabetes or help develop personalised approaches for glucose-lowering drugs based on individual characteristics of our patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael A Nauck
- Diabetes Division, Katholisches Klinikum Bochum, St Josef Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany.
| | - Jakob Wefers
- Diabetes Division, Katholisches Klinikum Bochum, St Josef Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Juris J Meier
- Diabetes Division, Katholisches Klinikum Bochum, St Josef Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
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