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Xu C, Zhang H, Yang C, Wang Y, Wang K, Wang R, Zhang W, Li C, Tian C, Han C, Li M, Liu X, Wang Y, Li Y, Zhang J, Li Y, Luo L, Shang Y, Zhang L, Chen Y, Shen K, Hu D. miR-125b-5p delivered by adipose-derived stem cell exosomes alleviates hypertrophic scarring by suppressing Smad2. BURNS & TRAUMA 2024; 12:tkad064. [PMID: 38765787 PMCID: PMC11102599 DOI: 10.1093/burnst/tkad064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Background Hypertrophic scarring is the most serious and unmet challenge following burn and trauma injury and often leads to pain, itching and even loss of function. However, the demand for ideal scar prevention and treatment is difficult to satisfy. We aimed to discover the effects and mechanisms of adipose-derived stem cell (ADSC) exosomes in hypertrophic scarring. Methods ADSC exosomes were isolated from the culture supernatant of ADSCs and identified by nanoparticle tracking analysis, transmission electron microscopy and western blotting. The effect of ADSC exosomes on wound healing and scar formation was detected by the wound model of BALB/c mice. We isolated myofibroblasts from hypertrophic scar tissue and detected the cell viability, proliferation and migration of myofibroblasts. In addition, collagen formation and fibrosis-related molecules were also detected. To further disclose the mechanism of ADSC exosomes on fibrosis in myofibroblasts, we detected the expression of Smad2 in hypertrophic scar tissue and normal skin and the regulatory mechanism of ADSC exosomes on Smad2. Injection of bleomycin was performed in male BALB/c mice to establish an in vivo fibrosis model while ADSC exosomes were administered to observe their protective effect. The tissue injury of mice was observed via hematoxylin and eosin and Masson staining and related testing. Results In this study, we found that ADSC exosomes could not only speed up wound healing and improve healing quality but also prevent scar formation. ADSC exosomes inhibited expression of fibrosis-related molecules such as α-smooth muscle actin, collagen I (COL1) and COL3 and inhibited the transdifferentiation of myofibroblasts. In addition, we verified that Smad2 is highly expressed in both hypertrophic scar tissue and hypertrophic fibroblasts, while ADSC exosomes downregulated the expression of Smad2 in hypertrophic fibroblasts. Further regulatory mechanism analysis revealed that microRNA-125b-5p (miR-125b-5p) is highly expressed in ADSC exosomes and binds to the 3' untranslated region of Smad2, thus inhibiting its expression. In vivo experiments also revealed that ADSC exosomes could alleviate bleomycin-induced skin fibrosis and downregulate the expression of Smad2. Conclusions We found that ADSC exosomes could alleviate hypertrophic scars via the suppression of Smad2 by the specific delivery of miR-125b-5p.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaolei Xu
- Department of Burns and Cutaneous Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China
| | - Hao Zhang
- Department of Burns and Cutaneous Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China
| | - Chen Yang
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Burns and Cosmetology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China
| | - Ying Wang
- Department of Burns and Cutaneous Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China
| | - Kejia Wang
- Department of Burns and Cutaneous Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China
| | - Rui Wang
- Department of Aerospace Medical Training, School of Aerospace Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Burns and Cosmetology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China
| | - Chao Li
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Burns and Cosmetology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China
| | - Chenyang Tian
- Department of Burns and Cutaneous Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China
| | - Chao Han
- Department of Burns and Cutaneous Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China
| | - Mengyang Li
- Department of Burns and Cutaneous Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China
| | - Xu Liu
- Department of Burns and Cutaneous Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China
| | - Yunwei Wang
- Department of Burns and Cutaneous Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Burns and Cutaneous Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China
| | - Jian Zhang
- Department of Burns and Cutaneous Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China
| | - Yu Li
- Department of Burns and Cutaneous Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China
| | - Liang Luo
- Department of Burns and Cutaneous Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China
| | - Yage Shang
- Department of Burns and Cutaneous Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China
| | - Lixia Zhang
- Department of Burns and Cutaneous Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China
| | - Yuxi Chen
- Department of Burns and Cutaneous Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China
| | - Kuo Shen
- Department of Burns and Cutaneous Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China
| | - Dahai Hu
- Department of Burns and Cutaneous Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China
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Ma F, Liu H, Xia T, Zhang Z, Ma S, Hao Y, Shen J, Jiang Y, Li N. HSFAS mediates fibroblast proliferation, migration, trans-differentiation and apoptosis in hypertrophic scars via interacting with ADAMTS8. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2024; 56:440-451. [PMID: 38006215 PMCID: PMC10984868 DOI: 10.3724/abbs.2023274] [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: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Hypertrophic scar (HS) is one of the most common sequelae of patients, especially after burns and trauma. The roles of regulatory long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in mediating HS remain underexplored. Human hypertrophic scar-derived fibroblasts (HSFBs) have been shown to exert more potent promoting effects on extracellular matrix (ECM) accumulation than normal skin-derived fibroblasts (NSFBs) and are associated with enhanced HS formation. The purpose of this study is to search for lncRNAs enriched in HSFBs and investigate their roles and mechanisms. LncRNA MSTRG.59347.16 is one of the most highly expressed lncRNAs in HS detected by lncRNA-seq and qRT-PCR and named as hypertrophic scar fibroblast-associated lncRNA (HSFAS). HSFAS overexpression significantly induces fibroblast proliferation, migration, and myofibroblast trans-differentiation and inhibits apoptosis in HSFBs, while knockdown of HSFAS results in augmented apoptosis and attenuated proliferation, migration, and myofibroblast trans-differentiation of HSFBs. Mechanistically, HSFAS suppresses the expression of A disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs 8 (ADAMTS8). ADAMTS8 knockdown rescues downregulated HSFAS-mediated fibroblast proliferation, migration, myofibroblast trans-differentiation and apoptosis. Thus, our findings uncover a previously unknown lncRNA-dependent regulatory pathway for fibroblast function. Targeted intervention in the HSFAS-ADAMTS8 pathway is a potential therapy for HS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Ma
- School of Basic MedicineNingxia Medical UniversityYinchuan750004China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Metabolic Cardiovascular Diseases ResearchNingxia Medical UniversityYinchuan750004China
- Ningxia Key Laboratory of Vascular Injury and Repair ResearchNingxia Medical UniversityYinchuan750004China
| | - Honglin Liu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Metabolic Cardiovascular Diseases ResearchNingxia Medical UniversityYinchuan750004China
- Ningxia Key Laboratory of Vascular Injury and Repair ResearchNingxia Medical UniversityYinchuan750004China
- Clinical Medical SchoolNingxia Medical UniversityYinchuan750004China
| | - Tongtong Xia
- NHC Key Laboratory of Metabolic Cardiovascular Diseases ResearchNingxia Medical UniversityYinchuan750004China
| | - Zhenghao Zhang
- School of Basic MedicineNingxia Medical UniversityYinchuan750004China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Metabolic Cardiovascular Diseases ResearchNingxia Medical UniversityYinchuan750004China
- Ningxia Key Laboratory of Vascular Injury and Repair ResearchNingxia Medical UniversityYinchuan750004China
| | - Shengchao Ma
- NHC Key Laboratory of Metabolic Cardiovascular Diseases ResearchNingxia Medical UniversityYinchuan750004China
- Ningxia Key Laboratory of Vascular Injury and Repair ResearchNingxia Medical UniversityYinchuan750004China
- Clinical Medical SchoolNingxia Medical UniversityYinchuan750004China
| | - Yinju Hao
- NHC Key Laboratory of Metabolic Cardiovascular Diseases ResearchNingxia Medical UniversityYinchuan750004China
| | - Jiangyong Shen
- General Hospital of Ningxia Medical UniversityYinchuan750004China
| | - Yideng Jiang
- School of Basic MedicineNingxia Medical UniversityYinchuan750004China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Metabolic Cardiovascular Diseases ResearchNingxia Medical UniversityYinchuan750004China
- Ningxia Key Laboratory of Vascular Injury and Repair ResearchNingxia Medical UniversityYinchuan750004China
| | - Nan Li
- NHC Key Laboratory of Metabolic Cardiovascular Diseases ResearchNingxia Medical UniversityYinchuan750004China
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Thomasy SM, Leonard BC, Greiner MA, Skeie JM, Raghunathan VK. Squishy matters - Corneal mechanobiology in health and disease. Prog Retin Eye Res 2024; 99:101234. [PMID: 38176611 PMCID: PMC11193890 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2023.101234] [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: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
The cornea, as a dynamic and responsive tissue, constantly interacts with mechanical forces in order to maintain its structural integrity, barrier function, transparency and refractive power. Cells within the cornea sense and respond to various mechanical forces that fundamentally regulate their morphology and fate in development, homeostasis and pathophysiology. Corneal cells also dynamically regulate their extracellular matrix (ECM) with ensuing cell-ECM crosstalk as the matrix serves as a dynamic signaling reservoir providing biophysical and biochemical cues to corneal cells. Here we provide an overview of mechanotransduction signaling pathways then delve into the recent advances in corneal mechanobiology, focusing on the interplay between mechanical forces and responses of the corneal epithelial, stromal, and endothelial cells. We also identify species-specific differences in corneal biomechanics and mechanotransduction to facilitate identification of optimal animal models to study corneal wound healing, disease, and novel therapeutic interventions. Finally, we identify key knowledge gaps and therapeutic opportunities in corneal mechanobiology that are pressing for the research community to address especially pertinent within the domains of limbal stem cell deficiency, keratoconus and Fuchs' endothelial corneal dystrophy. By furthering our understanding corneal mechanobiology, we can contextualize discoveries regarding corneal diseases as well as innovative treatments for them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara M Thomasy
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California - Davis, Davis, CA, United States; Department of Ophthalmology & Vision Science, School of Medicine, University of California - Davis, Davis, CA, United States; California National Primate Research Center, Davis, CA, United States.
| | - Brian C Leonard
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California - Davis, Davis, CA, United States; Department of Ophthalmology & Vision Science, School of Medicine, University of California - Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Mark A Greiner
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States; Iowa Lions Eye Bank, Coralville, IA, United States
| | - Jessica M Skeie
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States; Iowa Lions Eye Bank, Coralville, IA, United States
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Wang J, Lee RC. Tamoxifen Upregulates Collagenase Gene Expression in Human Dermal Fibroblasts. PLASTIC AND RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY-GLOBAL OPEN 2024; 12:e5609. [PMID: 38348464 PMCID: PMC10860976 DOI: 10.1097/gox.0000000000005609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2024]
Abstract
Background Tamoxifen is a known inhibitor of fibroblast transforming growth factor beta biosynthesis and wound scar formation. Tamoxifen is also known to be an estrogen antagonist and protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitor. Cells treated with tamoxifen and other PKC/calmodulin inhibitors depolymerize their membrane focal adhesion complexes and cytoskeletal protein structures. These effects result in substrate detachment, cell shape rounding, and upregulation of collagenase synthesis and extracellular matrix degradation. The purpose of our study was to test the hypothesis that tamoxifen treatment of human foreskin fibroblasts results in alteration of cytoskeletal protein organization, cell detachment and rounding, and increased collagenase synthesis similar to known PKC/calmodulin inhibitors such as H-7. Methods We characterized the effects of PKC/calmodulin inhibitors tamoxifen and H-7 on human dermal fibroblast morphology, cytoskeletal protein organization, and collagenase gene expression in monolayer culture and within collagen gels. Results We found that fibroblasts responded to tamoxifen by initiation of actin filament depolymerization followed by alteration from spindle to spheroidal shapes. This change in cell shape led to increased collagenase synthesis in cells treated with either tamoxifen or H-7 compared with controls. There was also a 23% increase of hydroxyproline release from tamoxifen-treated fibroblast-populated collagen matrices. Conclusions Tamoxifen may reduce scarring by inhibiting fibroblast PKC/calmodulin activity, which down-regulates pro-fibrotic transforming growth factor beta signaling and upregulates collagenase production. These effects mimic those of the known PKC/calmodulin inhibitor H-7. Overall, these findings suggest that tamoxifen and its analogues are promising agents for clinical investigation as small molecule regulators of fibrosis and scarring disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanne Wang
- From the Departments of Surgery, Medicine, and Integrated Biosciences, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Ill
| | - Raphael C. Lee
- From the Departments of Surgery, Medicine, and Integrated Biosciences, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Ill
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Chen J, Yang R, Yin J, Shi B, Huang H. Current insights in the preclinical study of palatal wound healing and oronasal fistula after cleft palate repair. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1271014. [PMID: 37900273 PMCID: PMC10601468 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1271014] [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: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Poor palatal wound healing after cleft palate repair could lead to unfavorable prognosis such as oronasal fistula (ONF), which might affect the patient's velopharyngeal function as well as their quality of life. Thus, restoring poor palatal wound healing for avoiding the occurrence of ONF should be considered the key to postoperative care after cleft palate repair. This review provided current insights in the preclinical study of poor palatal wound healing after cleft palate repair. This review comprehensively introduced the animal model establishment for palatal wound healing and related ONF, including the models by mice, rats, piglets, and dogs, and then demonstrated the aspects for investigating poor palatal wound healing and related treatments, including possible signaling pathways that could be involved in the formation of poor palatal wound healing, the related microbiota changes because of the deformity of palatal structure, and the studies for potential therapeutic strategies for palatal wound healing and ONF. The purpose of this review was to show the state of the art in preclinical studies about palatal wound healing after cleft palate repair and to show the promising aspects for better management of palatal wound healing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiali Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Renjie Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Eastern Clinic, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Jiayi Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Bing Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Hanyao Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
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Zhu H, He W, Ye P, Chen J, Wu X, Mu X, Wu Y, Pang H, Han F, Nie X. Piezo1 in skin wound healing and related diseases: Mechanotransduction and therapeutic implications. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 123:110779. [PMID: 37582313 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.110779] [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: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/17/2023]
Abstract
Skin wound healing is a multifaceted and intricate process involving inflammation, tissue proliferation, and scar formation, all of which are accompanied by the continuous application of mechanical forces. Mechanotransduction is the mechanism by which the skin receives and reacts to physical signals from the internal and external environment, converting them into intracellular biochemical signals. This intricate process relies on specialized proteins known as mechanotransducers, with Piezo1 being a critical mechanosensitive ion channel that plays a central role in this process. This article provides an overview of the structural characteristics of Piezo1 and summarizes its effects on corresponding cells or tissues at different stages of skin trauma, including how it regulates skin sensation and skin-related diseases. The aim is to reveal the potential diagnostic and therapeutic value of Piezo1 in skin trauma and skin-related diseases. Piezo1 has been reported to be a vital mediator of mechanosensation and transduction in various organs and tissues. Given its high expression in the skin, Piezo1, as a significant cell membrane ion channel, is essential in activating intracellular signaling cascades that trigger several cellular physiological functions, including cell migration and muscle contraction. These functions contribute to the regulation and improvement of wound healing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huan Zhu
- College of Pharmacy, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563006, China; Key Lab of the Basic Pharmacology of the Ministry of Education & Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563006, China.
| | - Wenjie He
- College of Pharmacy, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563006, China; Key Lab of the Basic Pharmacology of the Ministry of Education & Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563006, China.
| | - Penghui Ye
- College of Pharmacy, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563006, China; Key Lab of the Basic Pharmacology of the Ministry of Education & Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563006, China.
| | - Jitao Chen
- College of Pharmacy, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563006, China; Key Lab of the Basic Pharmacology of the Ministry of Education & Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563006, China.
| | - Xingqian Wu
- College of Pharmacy, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563006, China; Key Lab of the Basic Pharmacology of the Ministry of Education & Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563006, China.
| | - Xingrui Mu
- College of Pharmacy, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563006, China; Key Lab of the Basic Pharmacology of the Ministry of Education & Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563006, China.
| | - Youzhi Wu
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (AIBN), The University of Queensland (UQ), Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia.
| | - Huiwen Pang
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (AIBN), The University of Queensland (UQ), Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia.
| | - Felicity Han
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (AIBN), The University of Queensland (UQ), Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia.
| | - Xuqiang Nie
- College of Pharmacy, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563006, China; Key Lab of the Basic Pharmacology of the Ministry of Education & Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563006, China; School Medical Office, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563006, China; Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (AIBN), The University of Queensland (UQ), Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia; School of Biomedical Sciences, Translational Research Institute (TRI), Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, QLD 4102, Australia.
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Ezzo M, Hinz B. Novel approaches to target fibroblast mechanotransduction in fibroproliferative diseases. Pharmacol Ther 2023; 250:108528. [PMID: 37708995 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2023.108528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
The ability of cells to sense and respond to changes in mechanical environment is vital in conditions of organ injury when the architecture of normal tissues is disturbed or lost. Among the various cellular players that respond to injury, fibroblasts take center stage in re-establishing tissue integrity by secreting and organizing extracellular matrix into stabilizing scar tissue. Activation, activity, survival, and death of scar-forming fibroblasts are tightly controlled by mechanical environment and proper mechanotransduction ensures that fibroblast activities cease after completion of the tissue repair process. Conversely, dysregulated mechanotransduction often results in fibroblast over-activation or persistence beyond the state of normal repair. The resulting pathological accumulation of extracellular matrix is called fibrosis, a condition that has been associated with over 40% of all deaths in the industrialized countries. Consequently, elements in fibroblast mechanotransduction are scrutinized for their suitability as anti-fibrotic therapeutic targets. We review the current knowledge on mechanically relevant factors in the fibroblast extracellular environment, cell-matrix and cell-cell adhesion structures, stretch-activated membrane channels, stress-regulated cytoskeletal structures, and co-transcription factors. We critically discuss the targetability of these elements in therapeutic approaches and their progress in pre-clinical and/or clinical trials to treat organ fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya Ezzo
- Keenan Research Institute for Biomedical Science of the St. Michael's Hospital, and Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Boris Hinz
- Keenan Research Institute for Biomedical Science of the St. Michael's Hospital, and Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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Cuevas-Cervera M, Aguilar-Nuñez D, Aguilar-García M, García-Ríos MC, González-Muñoz A, Navarro-Ledesma S. Patellar Tendon Elasticity and Temperature Following after a 448 Kilohertz Radiofrequency Intervention on Active Healthy Subjects: An Open Controlled Clinical Trial. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:2976. [PMID: 37761343 PMCID: PMC10528375 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13182976] [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: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to analyze the changes in the elasticity and temperature of the patellar tendon produced by the application of a radiofrequency at 448 kHz (CRMR) just after and 7 days after the intervention. An open controlled clinical trial was used with participants being recruited from a private clinic. The experimental group (n = 22) received a 448 kHz CRMR treatment while the control group (n = 22) did not receive any type of intervention. Quantitative ultrasound strain elastography (SEL) and thermography were used to collect data from 4 different areas of the patellar tendon. These areas were measured at the start (T0), just after (T1), and seven days after (T2) the intervention. There were thermal changes immediately after the intervention (p < 0.001). In addition, when the measurements were collected just after the intervention and seven days after they were analyzed, significant changes (p < 0.001) in temperature were observed in the tendons of both groups. Finally, a low but significant association (r = 0.434, p < 0.04) was observed between the elastic properties of the tendon at its insertion in the patella and thermal changes just after the 448 kHz intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Cuevas-Cervera
- Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Campus of Melilla, University of Granada, Querol Street, 5, 52004 Melilla, Spain; (M.C.-C.); (M.A.-G.); (S.N.-L.)
- Biomedicine PhD Program, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Granada, Av. de la Ilustración, 60, 18071 Granada, Spain
| | - Daniel Aguilar-Nuñez
- Department of Nursing and Podiatry, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Malaga, 29071 Malaga, Spain;
| | - María Aguilar-García
- Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Campus of Melilla, University of Granada, Querol Street, 5, 52004 Melilla, Spain; (M.C.-C.); (M.A.-G.); (S.N.-L.)
| | - María Carmen García-Ríos
- Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Granada, Av. de la Ilustración, 60, 18071 Granada, Spain;
| | - Ana González-Muñoz
- Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Campus of Melilla, University of Granada, Querol Street, 5, 52004 Melilla, Spain; (M.C.-C.); (M.A.-G.); (S.N.-L.)
- Clinica Ana Gonzalez, Avenida Hernan Nuñez de Toledo 6, 29018 Malaga, Spain
| | - Santiago Navarro-Ledesma
- Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Campus of Melilla, University of Granada, Querol Street, 5, 52004 Melilla, Spain; (M.C.-C.); (M.A.-G.); (S.N.-L.)
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Bordoni B, Escher AR, Girgenti GT, Tobbi F, Bonanzinga R. Osteopathic Approach for Keloids and Hypertrophic Scars. Cureus 2023; 15:e44815. [PMID: 37692181 PMCID: PMC10483258 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.44815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The skin is a complex organ, a system that influences and is influenced by the body system, with different skin layers always mechano-biologically active. In the presence of a lesion that damages the dermis, the skin undergoes sensory, morphological, and functional alterations. The subsequent adaptation is the formation of scar tissue, following distinct and overlapping biological phases. For reasons not yet fully elucidated, some healing processes lead to pathological scars, from which symptoms such as pain, itching, and functional limitations are derived. Currently, there is no gold standard treatment that fully meets the needs of different scars and can eliminate any symptoms that the patient suffers. One such treatment is manual medicine, which involves direct manual approaches to the site of injury. Reviewing the phases that allow the skin to be remodeled following an injury, this article reflects on the usefulness of resorting to these procedures, highlighting erroneous concepts on which the manual approach is based, compared to what the current literature highlights the cicatricial processes. Considering pathological scar adaptations, it would be better to follow a gentle manual approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Bordoni
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Foundation Don Carlo Gnocchi, Milan, ITA
| | - Allan R Escher
- Anesthesiology/Pain Medicine, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, USA
| | - Gregory T Girgenti
- Anesthesiology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, USA
| | - Filippo Tobbi
- Osteopathy, PGO (Post Graduate Osteopathic) Institute, Lesignano De' bagni, ITA
| | - Roberto Bonanzinga
- Osteopathy, PGO (Post Graduate Osteopathic) Institute, Lesignano De' bagni, ITA
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Zheng Y, Huang Q, Zhang Y, Geng L, Wang W, Zhang H, He X, Li Q. Multimodal roles of transient receptor potential channel activation in inducing pathological tissue scarification. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1237992. [PMID: 37705977 PMCID: PMC10497121 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1237992] [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: 06/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Transient receptor potential (TRP) channels are a class of transmembrane proteins that can sense a variety of physical/chemical stimuli, participate in the pathological processes of various diseases and have attracted increasing attention from researchers. Recent studies have shown that some TRP channels are involved in the development of pathological scarification (PS) and directly participate in PS fibrosis and re-epithelialization or indirectly activate immune cells to release cytokines and neuropeptides, which is subdivided into immune inflammation, fibrosis, pruritus and mechanical forces increased. This review elaborates on the characteristics of TRP channels, the mechanism of PS and how TRP channels mediate the development of PS, summarizes the important role of TRP channels in the different pathogenesis of PS and proposes that therapeutic strategies targeting TRP will be important for the prevention and treatment of PS. TRP channels are expected to become new targets for PS, which will make further breakthroughs and provide potential pharmacological targets and directions for the in-depth study of PS.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Xiang He
- Department of Dermatology, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated with Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Qiannan Li
- Department of Dermatology, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated with Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
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11
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Zhu L, Liu L, Wang A, Liu J, Huang X, Zan T. Positive feedback loops between fibroblasts and the mechanical environment contribute to dermal fibrosis. Matrix Biol 2023; 121:1-21. [PMID: 37164179 DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2023.05.001] [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: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 05/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Dermal fibrosis is characterized by excessive deposition of extracellular matrix in the dermis and affects millions of people worldwide and causes limited movement, disfigurement and psychological distress in patients. Fibroblast dysfunction of plays a central role in the pathogenesis of dermal fibrosis and is controlled by distinct factors. Recent studies support the hypothesis that fibroblasts can drive matrix deposition and stiffening, which in turn can exacerbate the functional dysregulation of fibroblasts. Ultimately, through a positive feedback loop, uncontrolled pathological fibrosis develops. This review aims to summarize the phenomenon and mechanism of the positive feedback loop in dermal fibrosis, and discuss potential therapeutic targets to help further elucidate the pathogenesis of dermal fibrosis and develop therapeutic strategies. In this review, fibroblast-derived compositional and structural changes in the ECM that lead to altered mechanical properties are briefly discussed. We focus on the mechanisms by which mechanical cues participate in dermal fibrosis progression. The mechanosensors discussed in the review include integrins, DDRs, proteoglycans, and mechanosensitive ion channels. The FAK, ERK, Akt, and Rho pathways, as well as transcription factors, including MRTF and YAP/TAZ, are also discussed. In addition, we describe stiffness-induced biological changes in the ECM on fibroblasts that contribute to the formation of a positive feedback loop. Finally, we discuss therapeutic strategies to treat the vicious cycle and present important suggestions for researchers conducting in-depth research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Zhu
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Lechen Liu
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Aoli Wang
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jinwen Liu
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xin Huang
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Tao Zan
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
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12
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Zhou S, Xie M, Su J, Cai B, Li J, Zhang K. New insights into balancing wound healing and scarless skin repair. J Tissue Eng 2023; 14:20417314231185848. [PMID: 37529248 PMCID: PMC10388637 DOI: 10.1177/20417314231185848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Scars caused by skin injuries after burns, wounds, abrasions and operations have serious physical and psychological effects on patients. In recent years, the research of scar free wound repair has been greatly expanded. However, understanding the complex mechanisms of wound healing, in which various cells, cytokines and mechanical force interact, is critical to developing a treatment that can achieve scarless wound healing. Therefore, this paper reviews the types of wounds, the mechanism of scar formation in the healing process, and the current research progress on the dual consideration of wound healing and scar prevention, and some strategies for the treatment of scar free wound repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengxi Zhou
- School of Life Science, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, P. R. China
| | - Mengbo Xie
- School of Life Science, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, P. R. China
| | - Jingjing Su
- School of Life Science, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, P. R. China
| | - Bingjie Cai
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, P. R. China
| | - Jingan Li
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, P. R. China
| | - Kun Zhang
- School of Life Science, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, P. R. China
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Chen D, Zhang Y, Long W, Chai L, Myint TP, Zhou W, Zhou L, Wang M, Guo L. Visible light-driven photodynamic therapy for hypertrophic scars with MOF armored microneedles patch. Front Chem 2023; 11:1128255. [PMID: 36874068 PMCID: PMC9978826 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2023.1128255] [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: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is widely used for the treatment of hypertrophic scars in clinical practice. However, the low transdermal delivery of photosensitizers in scar tissue and protective autophagy induced by Photodynamic therapy greatly reduces the therapeutic efficiency. Therefore, it is necessary to deal with these difficulties for overcoming obstacles in Photodynamic therapy treatment. In this study, a photosensitizer with photocatalytic performance was designed and synthesized using innovative MOFs (metal-organic frameworks). Additionally, the MOFs, together with an autophagy inhibitor chloroquine (CQ), was loaded in a high mechanical strength microneedle patch (MNP) for transdermal delivery. With these functionalized MNP, photosensitizers and chloroquine were delivered deep inside hypertrophic scars. Inhibition of autophagy increases the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) under high-intensity visible-light irradiation. Multiprong approaches have been used to remove obstacles in Photodynamic therapy and successfully enhance its anti-scarring effect. In vitro experiments indicated that the combined treatment increased the toxicity of hypertrophic scar fibroblasts (HSFs), downregulated the level of collagen type I expression as well as transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1)expression, decreased the autophagy marker protein LC3II/I ratio, increased the expression of P62. In vivo experiments showed that the MNP had good puncture performance, and significant therapeutic effects were observed in the rabbit ear scar model. These results indicate that functionalized MNP has high potential clinical value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danyang Chen
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yixuan Zhang
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Wei Long
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Langjie Chai
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Thazin Phoone Myint
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Wei Zhou
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Ling Zhou
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Min Wang
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Liang Guo
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
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