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Hu S, Chapski DJ, Gehred ND, Kimball TH, Gromova T, Flores A, Rowat AC, Chen J, Packard RRS, Olszewski E, Davis J, Rau CD, McKinsey TA, Rosa-Garrido M, Vondriska TM. Histone H1.0 couples cellular mechanical behaviors to chromatin structure. NATURE CARDIOVASCULAR RESEARCH 2024; 3:441-459. [PMID: 38765203 PMCID: PMC11101354 DOI: 10.1038/s44161-024-00460-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024]
Abstract
Tuning of genome structure and function is accomplished by chromatin-binding proteins, which determine the transcriptome and phenotype of the cell. Here we investigate how communication between extracellular stress and chromatin structure may regulate cellular mechanical behaviors. We demonstrate that histone H1.0, which compacts nucleosomes into higher-order chromatin fibers, controls genome organization and cellular stress response. We show that histone H1.0 has privileged expression in fibroblasts across tissue types and that its expression is necessary and sufficient to induce myofibroblast activation. Depletion of histone H1.0 prevents cytokine-induced fibroblast contraction, proliferation and migration via inhibition of a transcriptome comprising extracellular matrix, cytoskeletal and contractile genes, through a process that involves locus-specific H3K27 acetylation. Transient depletion of histone H1.0 in vivo prevents fibrosis in cardiac muscle. These findings identify an unexpected role of linker histones to orchestrate cellular mechanical behaviors, directly coupling force generation, nuclear organization and gene transcription.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuaishuai Hu
- Department of Anesthesiology & Perioperative Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA USA
| | - Douglas J. Chapski
- Department of Anesthesiology & Perioperative Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA USA
| | - Natalie D. Gehred
- Department of Anesthesiology & Perioperative Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA USA
| | - Todd H. Kimball
- Department of Anesthesiology & Perioperative Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA USA
| | - Tatiana Gromova
- Department of Anesthesiology & Perioperative Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA USA
| | - Angelina Flores
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA USA
| | - Amy C. Rowat
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA USA
| | - Junjie Chen
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA USA
| | - René R. Sevag Packard
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA USA
- Department of Physiology, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA USA
| | - Emily Olszewski
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA USA
| | - Jennifer Davis
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA USA
| | - Christoph D. Rau
- Department of Genetics and McAllister Heart Institute, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC USA
| | - Timothy A. McKinsey
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology and Consortium for Fibrosis Research & Translation, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO USA
| | - Manuel Rosa-Garrido
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Medicine and School of Engineering, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL USA
| | - Thomas M. Vondriska
- Department of Anesthesiology & Perioperative Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA USA
- Department of Physiology, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA USA
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Nakazawa Y, Miyano M, Tsukamoto S, Kogai H, Yamamoto A, Iso K, Inoue S, Yamane Y, Yabe Y, Umihara H, Taguchi J, Akagi T, Yamaguchi A, Koga M, Toshimitsu K, Hirayama T, Mukai Y, Machinaga A. Delivery of a BET protein degrader via a CEACAM6-targeted antibody-drug conjugate inhibits tumour growth in pancreatic cancer models. Nat Commun 2024; 15:2192. [PMID: 38467634 PMCID: PMC10928091 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46167-1] [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: 03/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has the worst prognosis of all cancers. To improve PDAC therapy, we establish screening systems based on organoid and co-culture technologies and find a payload of antibody-drug conjugate (ADC), a bromodomain and extra-terminal (BET) protein degrader named EBET. We select CEACAM6/CD66c as an ADC target and developed an antibody, #84.7, with minimal reactivity to CEACAM6-expressing normal cells. EBET-conjugated #84.7 (84-EBET) has lethal effects on various PDAC organoids and bystander efficacy on CEACAM6-negative PDAC cells and cancer-associated fibroblasts. In mouse studies, a single injection of 84-EBET induces marked tumor regression in various PDAC-patient-derived xenografts, with a decrease in the inflammatory phenotype of stromal cells and without significant body weight loss. Combination with standard chemotherapy or PD-1 antibody induces more profound and sustained regression without toxicity enhancement. Our preclinical evidence demonstrates potential efficacy by delivering BET protein degrader to PDAC and its microenvironment via CEACAM6-targeted ADC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youya Nakazawa
- Tsukuba Research Laboratory, Eisai Co., Ltd., Ibaraki, Japan.
| | - Masayuki Miyano
- Tsukuba Research Laboratory, Eisai Co., Ltd., Ibaraki, Japan
| | | | - Hiroyuki Kogai
- Tsukuba Research Laboratory, Eisai Co., Ltd., Ibaraki, Japan
| | | | - Kentaro Iso
- Tsukuba Research Laboratory, Eisai Co., Ltd., Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Satoshi Inoue
- Tsukuba Research Laboratory, Eisai Co., Ltd., Ibaraki, Japan
| | | | - Yuki Yabe
- Tsukuba Research Laboratory, Eisai Co., Ltd., Ibaraki, Japan
| | | | - Junichi Taguchi
- Tsukuba Research Laboratory, Eisai Co., Ltd., Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Tsuyoshi Akagi
- Tsukuba Research Laboratory, Eisai Co., Ltd., Ibaraki, Japan
- KAN Research Institute, Inc., Kobe, Japan
| | | | - Minaho Koga
- Tsukuba Research Laboratory, Eisai Co., Ltd., Ibaraki, Japan
| | | | | | | | - Akihito Machinaga
- Tsukuba Research Laboratory, Eisai Co., Ltd., Ibaraki, Japan
- KAN Research Institute, Inc., Kobe, Japan
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3
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Tan Z, Wang Z, Zeng Q, Liu X, Zhang Y, Li S, Huang J, Zeng Y, Huang Z, Jin C, Fu N, Zhao Q, Mu Y, Wang Z, Xiao J, Yang H, Ke G. Natural intestinal metabolite xylitol reduces BRD4 levels to mitigate renal fibrosis. Clin Transl Sci 2024; 17:e13770. [PMID: 38501942 PMCID: PMC10949883 DOI: 10.1111/cts.13770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Renal fibrosis is a typical pathological change from chronic kidney disease (CKD) to end-stage renal failure, which presents significant challenges in prevention and treatment. The progression of renal fibrosis is closely associated with the "gut-kidney axis," therefore, although clinical intervention to modulate the "gut-kidney axis" imbalance associated with renal fibrosis brings hope for its treatment. In this study, we first identified the close relationship between renal fibrosis development and the intestinal microenvironment through fecal microtransplantation and non-absorbable antibiotics experiments. Then, we analyzed the specific connection between the intestinal microenvironment and renal fibrosis using microbiomics and metabolomics, screening for the differential intestinal metabolite. Potential metabolite action targets were initially identified through network simulation of molecular docking and further verified by molecular biology experiment. We used flow cytometry, TUNEL apoptosis staining, immunohistochemistry, and Western blotting to assess renal injury and fibrosis extent, exploring the potential role of gut microbial metabolite in renal fibrosis development. We discovered that CKD-triggered alterations in the intestinal microenvironment exacerbate renal injury and fibrosis. When metabolomic analysis was combined with experiments in vivo, we found that the differential metabolite xylitol delays renal injury and fibrosis development. We further validated this hypothesis at the cellular level. Mechanically, bromodomain-containing protein 4 (BRD4) protein exhibits strong binding with xylitol, and xylitol alleviates renal fibrosis by inhibiting BRD4 and its downstream transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) pathway. In summary, our findings suggest that the natural intestinal metabolite xylitol mitigates renal fibrosis by inhibiting the BRD4-regulated TGF-β pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhouke Tan
- Organ Transplant CenterAffiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical UniversityZunyiChina
- Department of NephrologyAffiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical UniversityZunyiChina
| | - Ze Wang
- Department of Critical Care MedicineThe Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Qianglin Zeng
- Sichuan Medicine Key Laboratory of Clinical GeneticsAffiliated Hospital & Clinical Medical College of Chengdu UniversityChengduChina
| | - Xiaoyou Liu
- Organ Transplant CenterThe First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Yamei Zhang
- Sichuan Medicine Key Laboratory of Clinical GeneticsAffiliated Hospital & Clinical Medical College of Chengdu UniversityChengduChina
| | - Shujue Li
- Department of Urology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Urology, Guangdong Engineering Research Center of Urinary Minimally Invasive Surgery Robot and Intelligent Equipment, Guangzhou Institute of UrologyThe First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Junlin Huang
- Department of Critical Care MedicineMaoming People's HospitalMaomingChina
| | - Yunong Zeng
- School of Traditional Chinese MedicineGuangdong Pharmaceutical UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Zongshun Huang
- Department of NephrologyThe First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Can Jin
- Department of NephrologyThe First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Ningying Fu
- Department of NephrologyThe First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Qian Zhao
- Department of NephrologyThe First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Yingsong Mu
- Department of NephrologyAffiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical UniversityZunyiChina
| | - Ziyi Wang
- Department of Critical Care MedicineThe Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Jie Xiao
- Department of NephrologyThe First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Hong Yang
- Department of Critical Care MedicineThe Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Guibao Ke
- Department of NephrologyThe First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
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Palumbo GA, Duminuco A. Myelofibrosis: In Search for BETter Targeted Therapies. J Clin Oncol 2023; 41:5044-5048. [PMID: 37751563 DOI: 10.1200/jco.23.00833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2023] [Revised: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe A Palumbo
- Department of Scienze Mediche, Chirurgiche e Tecnologie Avanzate "G.F. Ingrassia," University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Andrea Duminuco
- Postgraduate School of Hematology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
- Department of Haematology, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
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5
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Sato S, Koyama K, Ogawa H, Murakami K, Imakura T, Yamashita Y, Kagawa K, Kawano H, Hara E, Nishioka Y. A novel BRD4 degrader, ARV-825, attenuates lung fibrosis through senolysis and antifibrotic effect. Respir Investig 2023; 61:781-792. [PMID: 37741093 DOI: 10.1016/j.resinv.2023.08.003] [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: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent studies suggest that cellular senescence is related to the pathogenesis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. However, cellular senescence has yet to be targeted therapeutically in clinical practice. ARV825, a recently developed BRD4 degrader, has been reported as a novel senolytic drug. Conversely, it has also been reported that BRD4 regulates the pro-fibrotic gene expression of fibroblasts. Therefore, this study focuses on the senolytic and anti-fibrotic effects of ARV825 and evaluated these effects on lung fibrosis. METHODS Lung fibroblasts were induced to senescence through serial passage. The expression of senescence markers and pro-fibrotic markers were determined through quantitative PCR or immunoblot analysis. Lung fibrosis was induced in mice through intratracheal administration of bleomycin. Mice treated with ARV825 underwent histological analysis of lung fibrosis using the Ashcroft score. Total lung collagen was quantified through a hydroxyproline assay. Respiratory mechanics analysis was performed using the flexiVent system. RESULTS For senescent cells, ARV825 induced the expression of an apoptosis marker while reducing the expression of BRD4 and senescence markers. On the other hand, for early passage pre-senescent cells, ARV825 reduced the expression of collagen type 1 and α-smooth muscle actin. In an experimental mouse model of lung fibrosis, ARV825 attenuated lung fibrosis and improved lung function. Immunohistochemical staining revealed a significant decrease in the number of senescent alveolar type 2 cells in lung tissue due to ARV825 treatment. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that ARV825 may impact the progressive and irreversible course of fibrotic lung diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seidai Sato
- Department of Respiratory Medicine and Rheumatology, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Kazuya Koyama
- Department of Respiratory Medicine and Rheumatology, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Hirohisa Ogawa
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Kojin Murakami
- Department of Respiratory Medicine and Rheumatology, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Takeshi Imakura
- Department of Respiratory Medicine and Rheumatology, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Yuya Yamashita
- Department of Respiratory Medicine and Rheumatology, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Kozo Kagawa
- Department of Respiratory Medicine and Rheumatology, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Kawano
- Department of Respiratory Medicine and Rheumatology, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Eiji Hara
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases (RIMD), Osaka University, Suita 565-0871, Japan
| | - Yasuhiko Nishioka
- Department of Respiratory Medicine and Rheumatology, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan.
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6
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Gilham D, Wasiak S, Rakai BD, Fu L, Tsujikawa LM, Sarsons CD, Carestia A, Lebioda K, Johansson JO, Sweeney M, Kalantar-Zadeh K, Kulikowski E. Apabetalone Downregulates Fibrotic, Inflammatory and Calcific Processes in Renal Mesangial Cells and Patients with Renal Impairment. Biomedicines 2023; 11:1663. [PMID: 37371758 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11061663] [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: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 06/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic mechanisms are implicated in transcriptional programs driving chronic kidney disease (CKD). Apabetalone is an orally available inhibitor of bromodomain and extraterminal (BET) proteins, which are epigenetic readers that modulate gene expression. In the phase 3 BETonMACE trial, apabetalone reduced risk of major adverse cardiac events (MACE) by 50% in the CKD subpopulation, indicating favorable effects along the kidney-heart axis. Activation of human renal mesangial cells (HRMCs) to a contractile phenotype that overproduces extracellular matrix (ECM) and inflammatory cytokines, and promotes calcification, frequently accompanies CKD to drive pathology. Here, we show apabetalone downregulated HRMC activation with TGF-β1 stimulation by suppressing TGF-β1-induced α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) expression, α-SMA assembly into stress fibers, enhanced contraction, collagen overproduction, and expression of key drivers of fibrosis, inflammation, or calcification including thrombospondin, fibronectin, periostin, SPARC, interleukin 6, and alkaline phosphatase. Lipopolysaccharide-stimulated expression of inflammatory genes IL6, IL1B, and PTGS2 was also suppressed. Transcriptomics confirmed apabetalone affected gene sets of ECM remodeling and integrins. Clinical translation of in vitro results was indicated in CKD patients where a single dose of apabetalone reduced plasma levels of key pro-fibrotic and inflammatory markers, and indicated inhibition of TGF-β1 signaling. While plasma proteins cannot be traced to the kidney alone, anti-fibrotic and anti-inflammatory effects of apabetalone identified in this study are consistent with the observed decrease in cardiovascular risk in CKD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dean Gilham
- Resverlogix Corp., 300, 4820 Richard Road SW, Calgary, AB T3E 6L1, Canada
| | - Sylwia Wasiak
- Resverlogix Corp., 300, 4820 Richard Road SW, Calgary, AB T3E 6L1, Canada
| | - Brooke D Rakai
- Resverlogix Corp., 300, 4820 Richard Road SW, Calgary, AB T3E 6L1, Canada
| | - Li Fu
- Resverlogix Corp., 300, 4820 Richard Road SW, Calgary, AB T3E 6L1, Canada
| | - Laura M Tsujikawa
- Resverlogix Corp., 300, 4820 Richard Road SW, Calgary, AB T3E 6L1, Canada
| | | | - Agostina Carestia
- Resverlogix Corp., 300, 4820 Richard Road SW, Calgary, AB T3E 6L1, Canada
| | - Kenneth Lebioda
- Resverlogix Corp., 300, 4820 Richard Road SW, Calgary, AB T3E 6L1, Canada
| | - Jan O Johansson
- Resverlogix Inc., 535 Mission St, 14th Floor, San Francisco, CA 94105, USA
| | - Michael Sweeney
- Resverlogix Inc., 535 Mission St, 14th Floor, San Francisco, CA 94105, USA
| | - Kamyar Kalantar-Zadeh
- Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, University of California Los Angeles, 1000 W Carson St, Torrance, CA 90502, USA
| | - Ewelina Kulikowski
- Resverlogix Corp., 300, 4820 Richard Road SW, Calgary, AB T3E 6L1, Canada
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Zhang Y, Qin X, Yang Y, Li J, Li X, Zou X, Huang Z, Huang S. Ginkgo biloba extract attenuates cisplatin-induced renal interstitial fibrosis by inhibiting the activation of renal fibroblasts through down-regulating the HIF-1α/STAT3/IL-6 pathway in renal tubular epithelial cells. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 115:154809. [PMID: 37087791 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2023.154809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Activation of renal fibroblasts into myofibroblasts plays an important role in promoting renal interstitial fibrosis (RIF). Ginkgo biloba extract (EGb) can alleviate RIF induced by cisplatin (CDDP). PURPOSE To elucidate the effect of EGb treatment on cisplatin-induced RIF and reveal its potential mechanism. METHODS The two main active components in EGb were determined by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis. Rats were induced by CDDP and then treated with EGb, 2ME2 (HIF-1α inhibitor) or amifostine. After HK-2 cells and HIF-1α siRNA HK-2 cells were treated with CDDP, EGb or amifostine, the conditioned medium from each group was cultured with NRK-49F cells. The renal function of rats was detected. The renal damage and fibrosis were evaluated by H&E and Masson trichrome staining. The IL-6 content in the cell medium was detected by ELISA. The expression levels of indicators related to renal fibrosis and signaling pathway were examined by western blotting and qRT-PCR. RESULTS HPLC analysis showed that the contents of quercetin and kaempferol in EGb were 36.0 μg/ml and 45.7 μg/ml, respectively. In vivo, EGb and 2ME2 alleviated renal damage and fibrosis, as well as significantly decreased the levels of α-SMA, HIF-1α, STAT3 and IL-6 in rat tissues induced by CDDP. In vitro, the levels of HIF-1α, STAT3 and IL-6 were significantly increased in HK-2 cells and HIF-1α siRNA HK-2 cells induced by CDDP. Notably, HIF-1α siRNA significantly decreased the levels of HIF-1α, STAT3 and IL-6 in HK-2 cells, as well as the IL-6 level in medium from HK-2 cells. Additionally, the α-SMA level in NRK-49F cells was significantly increased after being cultured with conditioned medium from HK-2 cells or HIF-1α siRNA HK-2 cells exposed to CDDP. Furthermore, exogenous IL-6 increased the α-SMA level in NRK-49F cells. Importantly, the expression levels of the above-mentioned indicators were significantly decreased after the HK-2 cells and HIF-1α siRNA HK-2 cells were treated with EGb. CONCLUSION This study revealed that EGb improves CDDP-induced RIF, and the mechanism may be related to its inhibition of the renal fibroblast activation by down-regulating the HIF-1α/STAT3/IL-6 pathway in renal tubular epithelial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuting Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Xiping Qin
- Department of Pharmacy, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Yufang Yang
- Department of Pharmacy, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China.
| | - Jinxiu Li
- Department of Pharmacy, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Xiaolian Li
- Department of Pharmacy, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Xiaoqin Zou
- Department of Pharmacy, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Zhenguang Huang
- Department of Pharmacy, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Songqing Huang
- Department of Pharmacy, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China
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8
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Dudakovic A, Bayram B, Bettencourt JW, Limberg AK, Galvan ML, Carrasco ME, Stans B, Thaler R, Morrey ME, Sanchez-Sotelo J, Berry DJ, van Wijnen AJ, Abdel MP. The epigenetic regulator BRD4 is required for myofibroblast differentiation of knee fibroblasts. J Cell Biochem 2023; 124:320-334. [PMID: 36648754 PMCID: PMC9990907 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.30368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Arthrofibrosis, which is characterized by excessive scar tissue and limited motion, can complicate the daily functioning of patients after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Molecular hallmarks of arthrofibrosis include pathologic accumulation of myofibroblasts and disproportionate collagen deposition. Epigenetic mechanisms, including posttranslation modification of histones, control gene expression and may regulate fibrotic events. This study assessed the role of the bromodomain and extra-terminal (BET) proteins on myofibroblast differentiation. This group of epigenetic regulators recognize acetylated lysines and are targeted by a class of drugs known as BET inhibitors. RNA-seq analysis revealed robust mRNA expression of three BET members (BRD2, BRD3, and BRD4) while the fourth member (BRDT) is not expressed in primary TKA knee outgrowth fibroblasts. RT-qPCR and western blot analyses revealed that BET inhibition with the small molecule JQ1 impairs TGFβ1-induced expression of ACTA2, a key myofibroblast marker, in primary outgrowth knee fibroblasts. Similarly, JQ1 administration also reduced COL3A1 mRNA levels and collagen deposition as monitored by picrosirius red staining. Interestingly, the inhibitory effects of JQ1 on ACTA2 mRNA and protein expression, as well as COL3A1 expression and collagen deposition, were paralleled by siRNA-mediated depletion of BRD4. Together, these data reveal that BRD4-mediated epigenetic events support TGFβ1-mediated myofibroblast differentiation and collagen deposition as seen in arthrofibrosis. To our knowledge, these are the first studies that assess epigenetic regulators and their downstream events in the context of arthrofibrosis. Future studies may reveal clinical utility for drugs that target epigenetic pathways, specifically BET proteins, in the prevention and treatment of arthrofibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amel Dudakovic
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Banu Bayram
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | | | - Afton K. Limberg
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - M. Lizeth Galvan
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | | | - Britta Stans
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Roman Thaler
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Mark E. Morrey
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | | | - Daniel J. Berry
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Andre J. van Wijnen
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Vermont College of Medicine, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - Matthew P. Abdel
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
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9
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Type IV Collagen and SOX9 Are Molecular Targets of BET Inhibition in Experimental Glomerulosclerosis. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 24:ijms24010486. [PMID: 36613933 PMCID: PMC9820124 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Progressive glomerulonephritis (GN) is characterized by an excessive accumulation of extracellular (ECM) proteins, mainly type IV collagen (COLIV), in the glomerulus leading to glomerulosclerosis. The current therapeutic approach to GN is suboptimal. Epigenetic drugs could be novel therapeutic options for human disease. Among these drugs, bromodomain and extra-terminal domain (BET) inhibitors (iBETs) have shown beneficial effects in experimental kidney disease and fibrotic disorders. Sex-determining region Y-box 9 (SOX9) is a transcription factor involved in regulating proliferation, migration, and regeneration, but its role in kidney fibrosis is still unclear. We investigated whether iBETs could regulate ECM accumulation in experimental GN and evaluated the role of SOX9 in this process. For this purpose, we tested the iBET JQ1 in mice with anti-glomerular basement membrane nephritis induced by nephrotoxic serum (NTS). In NTS-injected mice, JQ1 treatment reduced glomerular ECM deposition, mainly by inhibiting glomerular COLIV accumulation and Col4a3 gene overexpression. Moreover, chromatin immunoprecipitation assays demonstrated that JQ1 inhibited the recruitment and binding of BRD4 to the Col4a3 promoter and reduced its transcription. Active SOX9 was found in the nuclei of glomerular cells of NTS-injured kidneys, mainly in COLIV-stained regions. JQ1 treatment blocked SOX9 nuclear translocation in injured kidneys. Moreover, in vitro JQ1 blocked TGF-β1-induced SOX9 activation and ECM production in cultured mesangial cells. Additionally, SOX9 gene silencing inhibited ECM production, including COLIV production. Our results demonstrated that JQ1 inhibited SOX9/COLIV, to reduce experimental glomerulosclerosis, supporting further research of iBET as a potential therapeutic option in progressive glomerulosclerosis.
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10
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Li X, Zhu H, Wen J, Huang J, Chen Y, Tian M, Ren J, Zhou L, Yang Q. Inhibition of BRD4 decreases fibrous scarring after ischemic stroke in rats by inhibiting the phosphorylation of Smad2/3. Brain Res 2022; 1797:148126. [PMID: 36244457 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2022.148126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Revised: 09/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Fibrous scarring may play a much more important role in preventing secondary expansion of tissue damage and hindering repair and regeneration than glial scarring after central nervous system (CNS) injury. However, relatively little is known about how fibrous scars form and how fibrous scar formation is regulated after CNS injury. Bromodomain-containing protein 4 (BRD4) is involved in fibrosis in many tissues, and transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1)/Smad2/3 signaling is one of the critical pathways of fibrosis. However, it is unclear whether and how BRD4 affects fibrous scar formation after ischemicbraininjury. In the present study, whether BRD4 can regulate the formation of fibrous scars after ischemic stroke via TGF-β1/Smad2/3 signaling was assessed. MATERIALS AND METHODS Primary meningeal fibroblasts isolated from neonatal SD rats were treated with TGF-β1, SB431542 (a TGF-β1 receptor inhibitor) and JQ1 (a small-molecule BET inhibitor that can also inhibit BRD4). BRD4 was knocked down in adult Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats by using adenovirus before middle cerebral artery occlusion/reperfusion (MCAO/R) injury. The proliferation and migration of meningeal fibroblasts in vitro were evaluated with the Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay and scratch test, respectively. Neurological function was assessed with Longa scores, modified Bederson Scores and modified neurological severity scores (mNSSs). The infarct volume was assessed with TTC staining. The protein expression of synaptophysin (SY), BRD4, Smad2/3, p-Smad2/3, α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), collagen-1 (COL1) and fibronectin (FN) in vivo and in vitro was examined with immunocytochemistry, immunofluorescence, and Western blotting. KEY FINDINGS BRD4 expression was upregulated in a TGF-β1-induced meningeal fibroblast fibrosis model and was downregulated by the TGF-β1 receptor inhibitor SB431542 in vitro. JQ1, a small-molecule BET inhibitor, inhibited BRD4 and decreased TGF-β1-induced meningeal fibroblast proliferation, migration and activation. Furthermore, MCAO/R injury induced fibrosis and upregulated BRD4 expression in the cerebral infarct center. BRD4 knockdown by adenovirus inhibited fibrous scarring, promoted synaptic survival, decreased the infarct volume, and improved neurological function after MCAO/R injury. Moreover, inhibition of BRD4, either by JQ1 in vitro or adenovirus in vivo, decreased the phosphorylation of Smad2/3. CONCLUSIONS This study is the first to indicate that inhibition of BRD4 delays fibrous scarring after ischemic stroke through mechanisms involving the phosphorylation of Smad2/3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuemei Li
- Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Huimin Zhu
- Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jun Wen
- Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jiagui Huang
- Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yue Chen
- Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Mingfen Tian
- Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jiangxia Ren
- Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Li Zhou
- Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Qin Yang
- Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.
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11
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Shen F, Zhuang S. Histone Acetylation and Modifiers in Renal Fibrosis. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:760308. [PMID: 35559244 PMCID: PMC9086452 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.760308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Histones are the most abundant proteins bound to DNA in eukaryotic cells and frequently subjected to post-modifications such as acetylation, methylation, phosphorylation and ubiquitination. Many studies have shown that histone modifications, especially histone acetylation, play an important role in the development and progression of renal fibrosis. Histone acetylation is regulated by three families of proteins, including histone acetyltransferases (HATs), histone deacetylases (HDACs) and bromodomain and extraterminal (BET) proteins. These acetylation modifiers are involved in a variety of pathophysiological processes leading to the development of renal fibrosis, including partial epithelial-mesenchymal transition, renal fibroblast activation, inflammatory response, and the expression of pro-fibrosis factors. In this review, we summarize the role and regulatory mechanisms of HATs, HDACs and BET proteins in renal fibrosis and provide evidence for targeting these modifiers to treat various chronic fibrotic kidney diseases in animal models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengchen Shen
- Department of Nephrology, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shougang Zhuang
- Department of Nephrology, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital and Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
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12
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Vichaikul S, Gurrea-Rubio M, Amin MA, Campbell PL, Wu Q, Mattichak MN, Brodie WD, Palisoc PJ, Ali M, Muraoka S, Ruth JH, Model EN, Rohraff DM, Hervoso JL, Mao-Draayer Y, Fox DA, Khanna D, Sawalha AH, Tsou PS. Inhibition of histone readers bromodomain extra-terminal proteins alleviates skin fibrosis in experimental models of scleroderma. JCI Insight 2022; 7:150871. [PMID: 35349485 PMCID: PMC9090238 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.150871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Binding of the bromodomain and extraterminal domain proteins (BETs) to acetylated histone residues is critical for gene transcription. We sought to determine the antifibrotic efficacy and potential mechanisms of BET inhibition in systemic sclerosis (SSc). Blockade of BETs was done using a pan-BET inhibitor, JQ1; BRD2 inhibitor, BIC1; or BRD4 inhibitors AZD5153 or ARV825. BET inhibition, specifically BRD4 blockade, showed antifibrotic effects in an animal model of SSc and in patient-derived diffuse cutaneous SSc (dcSSc) fibroblasts. Transcriptome analysis of JQ1-treated dcSSc fibroblasts revealed differentially expressed genes related to extracellular matrix, cell cycle, and calcium (Ca2+) signaling. The antifibrotic effect of BRD4 inhibition was mediated at least in part by downregulation of Ca2+/calmodulin–dependent protein kinase II α and reduction of intracellular Ca2+ concentrations. On the basis of these results, we propose targeting Ca2+ pathways or BRD4 as potentially novel therapeutic approaches for progressive tissue fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sirapa Vichaikul
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Autoimmunity Center of Excellence, Department of Internal Medicine, and
| | - Mikel Gurrea-Rubio
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Autoimmunity Center of Excellence, Department of Internal Medicine, and
| | - M. Asif Amin
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Autoimmunity Center of Excellence, Department of Internal Medicine, and
| | - Phillip L. Campbell
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Autoimmunity Center of Excellence, Department of Internal Medicine, and
| | - Qi Wu
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Autoimmunity Center of Excellence, Department of Internal Medicine, and
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Megan N. Mattichak
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Autoimmunity Center of Excellence, Department of Internal Medicine, and
| | - William D. Brodie
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Autoimmunity Center of Excellence, Department of Internal Medicine, and
| | - Pamela J. Palisoc
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Autoimmunity Center of Excellence, Department of Internal Medicine, and
| | - Mustafa Ali
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Autoimmunity Center of Excellence, Department of Internal Medicine, and
| | - Sei Muraoka
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Autoimmunity Center of Excellence, Department of Internal Medicine, and
| | - Jeffrey H. Ruth
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Autoimmunity Center of Excellence, Department of Internal Medicine, and
| | - Ellen N. Model
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Autoimmunity Center of Excellence, Department of Internal Medicine, and
| | - Dallas M. Rohraff
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Autoimmunity Center of Excellence, Department of Internal Medicine, and
| | - Jonatan L. Hervoso
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Autoimmunity Center of Excellence, Department of Internal Medicine, and
| | - Yang Mao-Draayer
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - David A. Fox
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Autoimmunity Center of Excellence, Department of Internal Medicine, and
| | - Dinesh Khanna
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Autoimmunity Center of Excellence, Department of Internal Medicine, and
- University of Michigan Scleroderma Program, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Amr H. Sawalha
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology; Department of Medicine
- Lupus Center of Excellence; and
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Pei-Suen Tsou
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Autoimmunity Center of Excellence, Department of Internal Medicine, and
- University of Michigan Scleroderma Program, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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13
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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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14
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Abstract
Epigenetics examines heritable changes in DNA and its associated proteins except mutations in gene sequence. Epigenetic regulation plays fundamental roles in kidney cell biology through the action of DNA methylation, chromatin modification via epigenetic regulators and non-coding RNA species. Kidney diseases, including acute kidney injury, chronic kidney disease, diabetic kidney disease and renal fibrosis are multistep processes associated with numerous molecular alterations even in individual kidney cells. Epigenetic alterations, including anomalous DNA methylation, aberrant histone alterations and changes of microRNA expression all contribute to kidney pathogenesis. These changes alter the genome-wide epigenetic signatures and disrupt essential pathways that protect renal cells from uncontrolled growth, apoptosis and development of other renal associated syndromes. Molecular changes impact cellular function within kidney cells and its microenvironment to drive and maintain disease phenotype. In this chapter, we briefly summarize epigenetic mechanisms in four kidney diseases including acute kidney injury, chronic kidney disease, diabetic kidney disease and renal fibrosis. We primarily focus on current knowledge about the genome-wide profiling of DNA methylation and histone modification, and epigenetic regulation on specific gene(s) in the pathophysiology of these diseases and the translational potential of identifying new biomarkers and treatment for prevention and therapy. Incorporating epigenomic testing into clinical research is essential to elucidate novel epigenetic biomarkers and develop precision medicine using emerging therapies.
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15
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Xiong C, Deng J, Wang X, Shao X, Zhou Q, Zou H, Zhuang S. Pharmacologic Targeting of BET Proteins Attenuates Hyperuricemic Nephropathy in Rats. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:636154. [PMID: 33664670 PMCID: PMC7921804 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.636154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Hyperuricemia is an independent risk factor for renal damage and promotes the progression of chronic kidney disease. In this study, we investigated the effect of I-BET151, a small-molecule inhibitor targeting the bromodomain and extraterminal (BET) proteins, on the development of hyperuricemic nephropathy (HN), and the mechanisms involved. Expression levels of bromodomain-containing protein 2 and 4, but not 3 were increased in the kidney of rats with HN; administration of I-BET151 effectively prevented renal dysfunction, decreased urine microalbumin, and attenuated renal fibrosis as indicated by reduced activation of renal interstitial fibroblasts and expression of fibronectin and collagen I in HN rats. Mechanistic studies show that I-BET151 treatment inhibited transition of renal epithelial cells to a mesenchymal cell type as evidenced by preservation of E-cadherin and reduction of vimentin expression. This was coincident with reduced expression of TGF-β1 and dephosphorylation of Smad3 and ERK1/2. I-BET151 was also effective in inhibiting phosphorylation of NF-κB, expression of multiple cytokines and chemokines, and infiltration of macrophages to the injured kidney. Although there were increased serum levels of uric acid and xanthine oxidase, an enzyme that catalyzes production of uric acid, and decreased expression of renal organic anion transporter 1 and 3 that promote urate excretion in the model of HN, and reduced expression levels of urine uric acid, I-BET151 treatment did not affect these responses. Collectively, our results indicate that I-BET151 alleviates HN by inhibiting epithelial to mesenchymal transition and inflammation in association with blockade of TGF-β, ERK1/2 and NF-κB signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chongxiang Xiong
- Department of Nephrology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jin Deng
- Department of Nephrology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Nephrology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaofei Shao
- Department of Nephrology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qin Zhou
- Department of Nephrology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hequn Zou
- Department of Nephrology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shougang Zhuang
- Department of Nephrology, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Department of Medicine, Alpert Medical School and Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
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16
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Wilflingseder J, Willi M, Lee HK, Olauson H, Jankowski J, Ichimura T, Erben R, Valerius MT, Hennighausen L, Bonventre JV. Enhancer and super-enhancer dynamics in repair after ischemic acute kidney injury. Nat Commun 2020; 11:3383. [PMID: 32636391 PMCID: PMC7341735 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-17205-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2019] [Accepted: 06/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The endogenous repair process can result in recovery after acute kidney injury (AKI) with adaptive proliferation of tubular epithelial cells, but repair can also lead to fibrosis and progressive kidney disease. There is currently limited knowledge about transcriptional regulators regulating these repair programs. Herein we establish the enhancer and super-enhancer landscape after AKI by ChIP-seq in uninjured and repairing kidneys on day two after ischemia reperfusion injury (IRI). We identify key transcription factors including HNF4A, GR, STAT3 and STAT5, which show specific binding at enhancer and super-enhancer sites, revealing enhancer dynamics and transcriptional changes during kidney repair. Loss of bromodomain-containing protein 4 function before IRI leads to impaired recovery after AKI and increased mortality. Our comprehensive analysis of epigenetic changes after kidney injury in vivo has the potential to identify targets for therapeutic intervention. Importantly, our data also call attention to potential caveats involved in use of BET inhibitors in patients at risk for AKI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Wilflingseder
- Brigham and Women's Hospital, Renal Division, Harvard Medical School, 4 Blackfan Circle, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
- Laboratory of Genetics and Physiology, NIDDK, NIH, 8 Center Dr, Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA.
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Michaela Willi
- Laboratory of Genetics and Physiology, NIDDK, NIH, 8 Center Dr, Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA
| | - Hye Kyung Lee
- Laboratory of Genetics and Physiology, NIDDK, NIH, 8 Center Dr, Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA
| | - Hannes Olauson
- Brigham and Women's Hospital, Renal Division, Harvard Medical School, 4 Blackfan Circle, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
- Division of Renal Medicine, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Solnavägen 1, 171 77, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jakub Jankowski
- Laboratory of Genetics and Physiology, NIDDK, NIH, 8 Center Dr, Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210, Vienna, Austria
| | - Takaharu Ichimura
- Brigham and Women's Hospital, Renal Division, Harvard Medical School, 4 Blackfan Circle, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Reinhold Erben
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210, Vienna, Austria
| | - M Todd Valerius
- Brigham and Women's Hospital, Renal Division, Harvard Medical School, 4 Blackfan Circle, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Lothar Hennighausen
- Laboratory of Genetics and Physiology, NIDDK, NIH, 8 Center Dr, Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA
| | - Joseph V Bonventre
- Brigham and Women's Hospital, Renal Division, Harvard Medical School, 4 Blackfan Circle, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
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17
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Morgado-Pascual JL, Rayego-Mateos S, Tejedor L, Suarez-Alvarez B, Ruiz-Ortega M. Bromodomain and Extraterminal Proteins as Novel Epigenetic Targets for Renal Diseases. Front Pharmacol 2019; 10:1315. [PMID: 31780938 PMCID: PMC6857099 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.01315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2019] [Accepted: 10/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic mechanisms, especially DNA methylation and histone modifications, are dynamic processes that regulate the gene expression transcriptional program in normal and diseased states. The bromodomain and extraterminal (BET) protein family (BRD2, BRD3, BRD4, and BRDT) are epigenetic readers that, via bromodomains, regulate gene transcription by binding to acetylated lysine residues on histones and master transcriptional factors. Experimental data have demonstrated the involvement of some BET proteins in many pathological conditions, including tumor development, infections, autoimmunity, and inflammation. Selective bromodomain inhibitors are epigenetic drugs that block the interaction between BET proteins and acetylated proteins, thus exerting beneficial effects. Recent data have described the beneficial effect of BET inhibition on experimental renal diseases. Emerging evidence underscores the importance of environmental modifications in the origin of pathological features in chronic kidney diseases (CKD). Several cellular processes such as oxidation, metabolic disorders, cytokines, inflammation, or accumulated uremic toxins may induce epigenetic modifications that regulate key processes involved in renal damage and in other pathological conditions observed in CKD patients. Here, we review how targeting bromodomains in BET proteins may regulate essential processes involved in renal diseases and in associated complications found in CKD patients, such as cardiovascular damage, highlighting the potential of epigenetic therapeutic strategies against BET proteins for CKD treatment and associated risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose Luis Morgado-Pascual
- Cellular Biology in Renal Diseases Laboratory, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Red de Investigación Renal (REDinREN), Madrid, Spain
| | - Sandra Rayego-Mateos
- Red de Investigación Renal (REDinREN), Madrid, Spain.,Vascular and Renal Translational Research Group, Institut de Recerca Biomèdica de Lleida (IRBLleida), Lleida, Spain
| | - Lucia Tejedor
- Cellular Biology in Renal Diseases Laboratory, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Red de Investigación Renal (REDinREN), Madrid, Spain
| | - Beatriz Suarez-Alvarez
- Red de Investigación Renal (REDinREN), Madrid, Spain.,Translational Immunology Laboratory, Health Research Institute of the Principality of Asturias (ISPA), Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias, Oviedo, Spain
| | - Marta Ruiz-Ortega
- Cellular Biology in Renal Diseases Laboratory, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Red de Investigación Renal (REDinREN), Madrid, Spain
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18
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Zuo H, Wang S, Feng J, Liu X. BRD4 contributes to high-glucose-induced podocyte injury by modulating Keap1/Nrf2/ARE signaling. Biochimie 2019; 165:100-107. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2019.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2019] [Accepted: 07/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
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19
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I-BET151 suppresses osteoclast formation and inflammatory cytokines secretion by targetting BRD4 in multiple myeloma. Biosci Rep 2019; 39:BSR20181245. [PMID: 30455393 PMCID: PMC6522735 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20181245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2018] [Revised: 10/24/2018] [Accepted: 11/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Multiple myeloma (MM) is an incurable hematologic cancer, accompanied by excessive osteoclast formation and inflammatory cytokine secretion. The mechanisms by which bromodomain and extra-terminal domain (BET) protein inhibitor I-BET151 regulates osteoclast differentiation and inflammatory cytokine secretion in MM are largely unknown. Methods: The isolated peripheral blood mononuclear cells from normal or patients with MM were treated with receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (RANKL) and M-CSF to induce osteoclast differentiation. RAW 264.7 cells were treated with RANKL. I-BET151 was applied to investigate the effects of BRD4 inhibition on osteoclast formation and inflammatory cytokine secretion. Osteoclast formation was determined by tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRACP) staining. The expression of osteoclast-specific genes TRACP, matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), cathepsin K (Ctsk), and c-Src was tested using quantitative real-time PCR. And the level of inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 was assessed by ELISA. Tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 6 (TRAF6), BRD4, nuclear and cytoplasm p65, IκB-α, nuclear factor of activated T cells cytoplasmic (NFATc1), and osteoprotegerin (OPG) expression were measured by Western blotting. RNAi technology was applied to knock down BET family member BRD4. Results: I-BET151 dose-dependently suppressed osteoclast formation, inhibited the levels of osteoclast-specific genes TRACP, MMP-9, Ctsk, and c-Src and inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 secretion in peripheral blood mononuclear cells and RAW 264.7. I-BET151 inhibited the protein levels of BRD4 and NFATc1, increased OPG expression, and suppressed IκB-α degradation and p65 nuclear translocation. Further, the effects of I-BET151 on osteoclast formation, osteoclast-specific genes expression, inflammatory cytokine secretion, and NF-κB inhibition were promoted by BRD4 knockdown. Conclusion: I-BET151 inhibits osteoclast formation and inflammatory cytokine secretion by targetting BRD4-mediated RANKL-NF-κB signal pathway and BRD4 inhibition might be beneficial for MM treatment.
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20
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Epigenetic Modification Mechanisms Involved in Inflammation and Fibrosis in Renal Pathology. Mediators Inflamm 2018; 2018:2931049. [PMID: 30647531 PMCID: PMC6311799 DOI: 10.1155/2018/2931049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2018] [Revised: 10/31/2018] [Accepted: 11/05/2018] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The growing incidence of obesity, hypertension, and diabetes, coupled with the aging of the population, is increasing the prevalence of renal diseases in our society. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is characterized by persistent inflammation, fibrosis, and loss of renal function leading to end-stage renal disease. Nowadays, CKD treatment has limited effectiveness underscoring the importance of the development of innovative therapeutic options. Recent studies have identified how epigenetic modifications participate in the susceptibility to CKD and have explained how the environment interacts with the renal cell epigenome to contribute to renal damage. Epigenetic mechanisms regulate critical processes involved in gene regulation and downstream cellular responses. The most relevant epigenetic modifications that play a critical role in renal damage include DNA methylation, histone modifications, and changes in miRNA levels. Importantly, these epigenetic modifications are reversible and, therefore, a source of potential therapeutic targets. Here, we will explain how epigenetic mechanisms may regulate essential processes involved in renal pathology and highlight some possible epigenetic therapeutic strategies for CKD treatment.
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21
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Klein K. Bromodomain protein inhibition: a novel therapeutic strategy in rheumatic diseases. RMD Open 2018; 4:e000744. [PMID: 30564450 PMCID: PMC6269638 DOI: 10.1136/rmdopen-2018-000744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2018] [Revised: 09/28/2018] [Accepted: 10/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The reading of acetylation marks on histones by bromodomain (BRD) proteins is a key event in transcriptional activation. Small molecule inhibitors targeting bromodomain and extra-terminal (BET) proteins compete for binding to acetylated histones. They have strong anti-inflammatory properties and exhibit encouraging effects in different cell types in vitro and in animal models resembling rheumatic diseases in vivo. Furthermore, recent studies that focus on BRD proteins beyond BET family members are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerstin Klein
- Center of Experimental Rheumatology, Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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22
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Chromatin dynamics at the core of kidney fibrosis. Matrix Biol 2018; 68-69:194-229. [DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2018.02.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2018] [Revised: 02/16/2018] [Accepted: 02/17/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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23
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Qu M, Zhang X, Hu X, Dong M, Pan X, Bian J, Zhou Q. BRD4 inhibitor JQ1 inhibits and reverses mechanical injury-induced corneal scarring. Cell Death Discov 2018; 4:5. [PMID: 30062054 PMCID: PMC6060126 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-018-0066-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2018] [Revised: 05/21/2018] [Accepted: 06/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Corneal scarring is characterized by the improper deposition of extracellular matrix components and myofibroblast differentiation from keratocytes. The bromodomain-containing protein 4 (BRD4) inhibitor JQ1 has been shown to attenuate pathological fibrosis. The present study aimed to explore the potential therapeutic effect of JQ1 on mechanical injury-induced mouse corneal scarring and TGFβ-induced human corneal myofibroblast differentiation and the related mechanism. The corneal scarring and myofibroblast differentiation were evaluated with clinical observation and fibrosis-related gene expression analysis. In mice, subconjunctivally injected JQ1 suppressed the initial development and reversed the established progression of corneal scarring, while having no impairment on the epithelial regenerative capacity. BRD4 inhibition with either JQ1 or small-interfering RNA inhibited the differentiation and promoted the dedifferentiation of human corneal myofibroblasts. Moreover, JQ1 attenuated the accumulation of intracellular reactive oxygen species induced by TGFβ treatment, induced Nrf2 nuclear translocation and activated the expression of Nrf2-ARE downstream antioxidant genes. In conclusion, this study implicates that JQ1 suppresses and reverses corneal scarring through the regulation of BRD4 inhibition and Nrf2-dependant antioxidant induction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingli Qu
- 1State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China
| | - Xiaoping Zhang
- 1State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China.,2The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong China
| | - Xiaoli Hu
- 1State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China
| | - Muchen Dong
- 1State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China.,3School of Medicine and Life Sciences, University of Jinan-Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong China
| | - Xiaojing Pan
- 1State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China
| | - Jiang Bian
- 1State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China.,3School of Medicine and Life Sciences, University of Jinan-Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong China
| | - Qingjun Zhou
- 1State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China
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Wasiak S, Tsujikawa LM, Halliday C, Stotz SC, Gilham D, Jahagirdar R, Kalantar-Zadeh K, Robson R, Sweeney M, Johansson JO, Wong NC, Kulikowski E. Benefit of Apabetalone on Plasma Proteins in Renal Disease. Kidney Int Rep 2018; 3:711-721. [PMID: 29854980 PMCID: PMC5976837 DOI: 10.1016/j.ekir.2017.12.001] [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: 10/18/2017] [Revised: 11/29/2017] [Accepted: 12/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Apabetalone, a small molecule inhibitor, targets epigenetic readers termed BET proteins that contribute to gene dysregulation in human disorders. Apabetalone has in vitro and in vivo anti-inflammatory and antiatherosclerotic properties. In phase 2 clinical trials, this drug reduced the incidence of major adverse cardiac events in patients with cardiovascular disease. Chronic kidney disease is associated with a progressive loss of renal function and a high risk of cardiovascular disease. We studied the impact of apabetalone on the plasma proteome in patients with impaired kidney function. METHODS Subjects with stage 4 or 5 chronic kidney disease and matched controls received a single dose of apabetalone. Plasma was collected for pharmacokinetic analysis and for proteomics profiling using the SOMAscan 1.3k platform. Proteomics data were analyzed with Ingenuity Pathway Analysis to identify dysregulated pathways in diseased patients, which were targeted by apabetalone. RESULTS At baseline, 169 plasma proteins (adjusted P value <0.05) were differentially enriched in renally impaired patients versus control subjects, including cystatin C and β2 microglobulin, which correlate with renal function. Bioinformatics analysis of the plasma proteome revealed a significant activation of 42 pathways that control immunity and inflammation, oxidative stress, endothelial dysfunction, vascular calcification, and coagulation. At 12 hours postdose, apabetalone countered the activation of pathways associated with renal disease and reduced the abundance of disease markers, including interleukin-6, plasminogen activator inhibitor-1, and osteopontin. CONCLUSION These data demonstrated plasma proteome dysregulation in renally impaired patients and the beneficial impact of apabetalone on pathways linked to chronic kidney disease and its cardiovascular complications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Richard Robson
- Christchurch Clinical Studies Trust, Christchurch, New Zealand
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25
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Kulikowski E, Halliday C, Johansson J, Sweeney M, Lebioda K, Wong N, Haarhaus M, Brandenburg V, Beddhu S, Tonelli M, Zoccali C, Kalantar-Zadeh K. Apabetalone Mediated Epigenetic Modulation is Associated with Favorable Kidney Function and Alkaline Phosphatase Profile in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease. Kidney Blood Press Res 2018; 43:449-457. [PMID: 29566379 DOI: 10.1159/000488257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2017] [Accepted: 03/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS The association between serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) with adverse cardiovascular outcomes, in Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) patients has previously been reported and may be a result of increased vascular calcification and inflammation. Here we report, for the first time, the effects of pharmacologic epigenetic modulation on levels of ALP and kidney function via a novel oral small molecule BET inhibitor, apabetalone, in CKD patients. METHODS A post-hoc analysis evaluated patients with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <60 mL/min/1.73m2, who participated in the apabetalone phase 2 randomized controlled trials (SUSTAIN and ASSURE). 48 CKD subjects with a history of cardiovascular disease (CVD) were treated with 100mg twice-daily of 24 and 26 weeks of apabetalone or placebo. ALP and eGFR were measured prior to randomization and at final visits. RESULTS Patients who received apabetalone (n=35) versus placebo (n=13) over 6 months showed significantly (p=0.02) lowered serum ALP -14.0% (p<0.0001 versus baseline) versus -6.3% (p=0.9 versus baseline). The eGFR in the apabetalone group increased by 3.4% (1.7 mL/min/1.73 m2) (p=0.04 versus baseline) and decreased by 5.8% (2.9 mL/min/1.73 m2) (p=0.6 versus baseline) in the placebo group. Apabetalone was well tolerated. CONCLUSION A post-hoc analysis of CKD subjects from the SUSTAIN and ASSURE randomized controlled trials demonstrated favorable effects of apabetalone on ALP and eGFR, and generated the hypothesis that epigenetic modulation by BET inhibition may potentially offer a novel therapeutic strategy to treat CVD and progressive kidney function loss in CKD patients. This is being examined in the phase III trial BETonMACE.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jan Johansson
- Resverlogix Corp. Clinical Development, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Mike Sweeney
- Resverlogix Corp. Clinical Development, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Kenneth Lebioda
- Resverlogix Corp. Research and Development, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Norman Wong
- Resverlogix Corp. Research and Development, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Mathias Haarhaus
- Division of Renal Medicine and Baxter Novum, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Srinivasan Beddhu
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension and Medical Service, Veterans Affairs Salt Lake City Healthcare System, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Marcello Tonelli
- Department of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Carmine Zoccali
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension and Renal Transplantation, Ospedali Riuniti, Reggio Calabria, Italy
| | - Kamyar Kalantar-Zadeh
- Harold Simmons Center for Kidney Disease Research and Epidemiology, Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, University of California Irvine Medical Center, Orange, California, USA.,Nephrology Section, Tibor Rubin Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Long Beach, California, USA.,Department of Epidemiology, UCLA Fielding School of Public Health, Los Angeles, California, USA
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26
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BET-bromodomain inhibitors modulate epigenetic patterns at the diacylglycerol kinase alpha enhancer associated with radiation-induced fibrosis. Radiother Oncol 2017; 125:168-174. [PMID: 28916223 DOI: 10.1016/j.radonc.2017.08.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2017] [Revised: 08/18/2017] [Accepted: 08/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Fibrosis is a frequent adverse effect of radiotherapy and no effective treatments are currently available to prevent or reverse fibrotic disease. We have previously identified altered epigenetic patterns at a gene enhancer of the diacylglycerol kinase alpha (DGKA) locus in normal skin fibroblasts derived from fibrosis patients. An open chromatin pattern related to radiation-inducibility of DGKA is associated with onset of radiation-induced fibrosis. Here, we explore epigenetic modulation of DGKA as a way to mitigate predisposition to fibrosis. MATERIAL AND METHODS We studied the effect of the BET-bromodomain inhibitors (JQ1, PFI-1) on DGKA inducibility in primary fibroblasts. Hence, DGKA transcription was additionally induced by the radiomimetic drug bleomycin, and DGKA mRNA expression, histone H3K27 acetylation and downstream markers of profibrotic fibroblast activation after BET-bromodomain inhibition were determined. RESULTS BET-bromodomain inhibition suppressed induction of DGKA in bleomycin-treated fibroblasts, reduced H3K27ac at the DGKA enhancer and repressed collagen marker gene expression. Alterations in fibroblast morphology and reduction of collagen deposition were observed. CONCLUSION For the DGKA enhancer, we show that BET-bromodomain inhibitors can alter the epigenetic landscape of fibroblasts, thus counteracting profibrotic transcriptional events. Interference with epigenetic patterns of fibrosis predisposition may provide novel preventive therapies that improve radiotherapy.
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Suarez-Alvarez B, Rodriguez RM, Ruiz-Ortega M, Lopez-Larrea C. BET Proteins: An Approach to Future Therapies in Transplantation. Am J Transplant 2017; 17:2254-2262. [PMID: 28173625 DOI: 10.1111/ajt.14221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2016] [Revised: 01/13/2017] [Accepted: 01/31/2017] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
In order to develop new efficient therapies for organ transplantation, it is essential to acquire a comprehensive knowledge of the molecular mechanisms and processes, such as immune activation, chronic inflammation, and fibrosis, which lead to rejection and long-term graft loss. Recent efforts have shed some light on the epigenetic regulation associated with these processes. In this context, the bromo and extraterminal (BET) family of bromodomain proteins (BRD2, BRD3, BRD4, and BRDT) have emerged as major epigenetic players, connecting chromatin structure with gene expression changes. These proteins recognize acetylated lysines in histones and master transcription factors to recruit regulatory complex and, finally, modify the transcriptional program. Recent studies indicate that BET proteins are essential in the NF-kB-mediated inflammatory response, during the activation and differentiation of Th17-immune cells, and in profibrotic processes. Here, we review this new body of data and highlight the efficiency of BET inhibitors in several models of diseases. The promising results obtained from these preclinical models indicate that it may be time to translate these outcomes to the transplantation field, where epigenetics will be of increasing value in the coming years.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Suarez-Alvarez
- Department of Immunology, Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias, Oviedo, Spain
| | - R M Rodriguez
- Department of Immunology, Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias, Oviedo, Spain
| | - M Ruiz-Ortega
- Cellular Biology of Renal Disease Laboratory, Nephrology Department, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - C Lopez-Larrea
- Department of Immunology, Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias, Oviedo, Spain
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Abstract
Fibrosis is defined as excess deposition of extracellular matrix, resulting in tissue scarring and organ dysfunction. It is estimated that 45% of deaths in the developed world are due to fibrosis-induced organ failure. Despite the well-accepted role of fibrosis in the pathogenesis of numerous diseases, there are only two US Food and Drug Administration–approved anti-fibrotic therapies, both of which are currently restricted to the treatment of pulmonary fibrosis. Thus, organ fibrosis represents a massive unmet medical need. Here, we review recent findings suggesting that an epigenetic regulatory protein, BRD4, is a nodal effector of organ fibrosis, and we highlight the potential of small-molecule BRD4 inhibitors for the treatment of diverse fibrotic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew S Stratton
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology and Consortium for Fibrosis Research & Translation, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Saptarsi M Haldar
- Gladstone Institutes and Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, University of California San Francisco School of Medicine, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Timothy A McKinsey
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology and Consortium for Fibrosis Research & Translation, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
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Frank-Bertoncelj M, Klein K, Gay S. Interplay between genetic and epigenetic mechanisms in rheumatoid arthritis. Epigenomics 2017; 9:493-504. [PMID: 28322583 DOI: 10.2217/epi-2016-0142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Genetic and environmental factors contribute to the risk for rheumatoid arthritis (RA), with epigenetics serving as a possible interface through which risk factors contribute to RA. High-throughput technologies for interrogating genome and epigenome, and the availability of genetic and epigenetic datasets across a diversity of cell types, enable the identification of candidate causal genetic variants for RA to study their function in core RA processes. To date, RA risk variants were studied in the immune cells but not joint resident cells, for example, synovial fibroblasts. Synovial fibroblasts from different joints are distinct, anatomically specialized cells, defined by joint-specific transcriptomes, epigenomes and phenotypes. Cell type-specific analysis of epigenetic changes, together with genetic fine mapping and interrogation of chromatin 3D interactions may identify new disease relevant pathways, potential therapeutic targets and biomarkers for RA progression or therapy response.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kerstin Klein
- Center of Experimental Rheumatology, University Hospital Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Steffen Gay
- Center of Experimental Rheumatology, University Hospital Zurich, Switzerland
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