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Jiang Y, Dou H, Wang X, Song T, Jia Y, Yue Y, Li L, He F, Kong L, Wu Z, Huang X, Liang Y, Jiao B, Jiao B. Analysis of seasonal H3N2 influenza virus epidemic characteristics and whole genome features in Jining City from 2018 to 2023. J Med Virol 2024; 96:e29846. [PMID: 39138641 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.29846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2024] [Revised: 07/08/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024]
Abstract
Seasonal H3N2 influenza virus, known for its rapid evolution, poses a serious threat to human health. This study focuses on analyzing the influenza virus trends in Jining City (2018-2023) and understanding the evolving nature of H3N2 strains. Data on influenza-like cases were gathered from Jining City's sentinel hospitals: Jining First People's Hospital and Rencheng Maternal and Child Health Hospital, using the Chinese Influenza Surveillance Information System. Over the period from 2018 to 2023, 7844 throat swab specimens were assessed using real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR for influenza virus nucleic acid detection. For cases positive for seasonal H3N2 influenza virus, virus isolation was followed by whole genome sequencing. Evolutionary trees were built for the eight gene segments, and protein variation analysis was performed. From 2018 to 2023, influenza-like cases in Jining City represented 6.99% (237 299/3 397 247) of outpatient visits, peaking in December and January. Influenza virus was detected in 15.67% (1229/7844) of cases, primarily from December to February. Notably, no cases were found in the 2020-2021 season. Full genome sequencing was conducted on 70 seasonal H3N2 strains, revealing distinct evolutionary branches across seasons. Significant antigenic site variations in the HA protein were noted. No resistance mutations to inhibitors were found, but some strains exhibited mutations in PA, NS1, PA-X, and PB1-F2. Influenza trends in Jining City saw significant shifts in the 2020-2021 and 2022-2023 seasons. Seasonal H3N2 exhibited rapid evolution. Sustained vigilance is imperative for vaccine updates and antiviral selection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yajuan Jiang
- Department of Laboratory, Jining Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Jining, China
| | - Huixin Dou
- Department of Laboratory, Jining Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Jining, China
- School of Bioengineering, Qilu University of Technology, Jinan, China
| | - Xiaoyu Wang
- Department of Laboratory, Jining Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Jining, China
| | - Tongyun Song
- Department of Laboratory, Rencheng Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Jining, China
| | - Yongjian Jia
- Department of Laboratory, Jining Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Jining, China
| | - Ying Yue
- Department of Infectious Disease Control, Jining Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Jining, China
| | - Libo Li
- Department of Infectious Disease Control, Jining Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Jining, China
| | - Feifei He
- Computer Information Technology, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, Arizona, USA
| | - Lingming Kong
- Department of AI and Bioinformatics, Nanjing Chengshi BioTech (TheraRNA) Co., Ltd., Nanjing, China
| | - Zengding Wu
- Department of AI and Bioinformatics, Nanjing Chengshi BioTech (TheraRNA) Co., Ltd., Nanjing, China
| | - Xiankun Huang
- Department of Laboratory, Jining Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Jining, China
| | - Yumin Liang
- Department of Laboratory, Jining Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Jining, China
| | - Boyan Jiao
- Department of Laboratory, Jining Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Jining, China
| | - Baihai Jiao
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Connecticut Health Center, Division of Nephrology, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
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Zhao X, Li Y, Yu J, Teng H, Wu S, Wang Y, Zhou H, Li F. Role of mitochondria in pathogenesis and therapy of renal fibrosis. Metabolism 2024; 155:155913. [PMID: 38609039 DOI: 10.1016/j.metabol.2024.155913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
Renal fibrosis, specifically tubulointerstitial fibrosis, represents the predominant pathological consequence observed in the context of progressive chronic kidney conditions. The pathogenesis of renal fibrosis encompasses a multifaceted interplay of mechanisms, including but not limited to interstitial fibroblast proliferation, activation, augmented production of extracellular matrix (ECM) components, and impaired ECM degradation. Notably, mitochondria, the intracellular organelles responsible for orchestrating biological oxidation processes in mammalian cells, assume a pivotal role within this intricate milieu. Mitochondrial dysfunction, when manifest, can incite a cascade of events, including inflammatory responses, perturbed mitochondrial autophagy, and associated processes, ultimately culminating in the genesis of renal fibrosis. This comprehensive review endeavors to furnish an exegesis of mitochondrial pathophysiology and biogenesis, elucidating the precise mechanisms through which mitochondrial aberrations contribute to the onset and progression of renal fibrosis. We explored how mitochondrial dysfunction, mitochondrial cytopathy and mitochondrial autophagy mediate ECM deposition and renal fibrosis from a multicellular perspective of mesangial cells, endothelial cells, podocytes, macrophages and fibroblasts. Furthermore, it succinctly encapsulates the most recent advancements in the realm of mitochondrial-targeted therapeutic strategies aimed at mitigating renal fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaodong Zhao
- Department of Urology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Yunkuo Li
- Department of Urology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Jinyu Yu
- Department of Urology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Haolin Teng
- Department of Urology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Shouwang Wu
- Department of Urology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Yishu Wang
- Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Honglan Zhou
- Department of Urology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China.
| | - Faping Li
- Department of Urology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China.
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Torimoto K, Elliott K, Nakayama Y, Yanagisawa H, Eguchi S. Cardiac and perivascular myofibroblasts, matrifibrocytes, and immune fibrocytes in hypertension; commonalities and differences with other cardiovascular diseases. Cardiovasc Res 2024; 120:567-580. [PMID: 38395029 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvae044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Hypertension is a major cause of cardiovascular diseases such as myocardial infarction and stroke. Cardiovascular fibrosis occurs with hypertension and contributes to vascular resistance, aortic stiffness, and cardiac hypertrophy. However, the molecular mechanisms leading to fibroblast activation in hypertension remain largely unknown. There are two types of fibrosis: replacement fibrosis and reactive fibrosis. Replacement fibrosis occurs in response to the loss of viable tissue to form a scar. Reactive fibrosis occurs in response to an increase in mechanical and neurohormonal stress. Although both types of fibrosis are considered adaptive processes, they become maladaptive when the tissue loss is too large, or the stress persists. Myofibroblasts represent a subpopulation of activated fibroblasts that have gained contractile function to promote wound healing. Therefore, myofibroblasts are a critical cell type that promotes replacement fibrosis. Although myofibroblasts were recognized as the fibroblasts participating in reactive fibrosis, recent experimental evidence indicated there are distinct fibroblast populations in cardiovascular reactive fibrosis. Accordingly, we will discuss the updated definition of fibroblast subpopulations, the regulatory mechanisms, and their potential roles in cardiovascular pathophysiology utilizing new knowledge from various lineage tracing and single-cell RNA sequencing studies. Among the fibroblast subpopulations, we will highlight the novel roles of matrifibrocytes and immune fibrocytes in cardiovascular fibrosis including experimental models of hypertension, pressure overload, myocardial infarction, atherosclerosis, aortic aneurysm, and nephrosclerosis. Exploration into the molecular mechanisms involved in the differentiation and activation of those fibroblast subpopulations may lead to novel treatments for end-organ damage associated with hypertension and other cardiovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keiichi Torimoto
- Department of Cardiovascular Science, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Katherine Elliott
- Department of Cardiovascular Science, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Sol Sherry Thrombosis Research Center, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Yuki Nakayama
- Department of Cardiovascular Science, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Sol Sherry Thrombosis Research Center, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Hiromi Yanagisawa
- Life Science Center for Survival Dynamics, Tsukuba Advanced Research Alliance (TARA), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Satoru Eguchi
- Department of Cardiovascular Science, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Sol Sherry Thrombosis Research Center, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Yin Q, Liu W, Jiang Y, Feng Q, Wang X, Dou H, Liu Z, He F, Fan Y, Jiao B, Jiao B. Comprehensive genomic analysis of the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant BA.2.76 in Jining City, China, 2022. BMC Genomics 2024; 25:378. [PMID: 38632523 PMCID: PMC11022347 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-024-10246-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aims to analyze the molecular characteristics of the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) Omicron variant BA.2.76 in Jining City, China. METHODS Whole-genome sequencing was performed on 87 cases of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Evolutionary trees were constructed using bioinformatics software to analyze sequence homology, variant sites, N-glycosylation sites, and phosphorylation sites. RESULTS All 87 SARS-CoV-2 whole-genome sequences were classified under the evolutionary branch of the Omicron variant BA.2.76. Their similarity to the reference strain Wuhan-Hu-1 ranged from 99.72 to 99.74%. In comparison to the reference strain Wuhan-Hu-1, the 87 sequences exhibited 77-84 nucleotide differences and 27 nucleotide deletions. A total of 69 amino acid variant sites, 9 amino acid deletions, and 1 stop codon mutation were identified across 18 proteins. Among them, the spike (S) protein exhibited the highest number of variant sites, and the ORF8 protein showed a Q27 stop mutation. Multiple proteins displayed variations in glycosylation and phosphorylation sites. CONCLUSION SARS-CoV-2 continues to evolve, giving rise to new strains with enhanced transmission, stronger immune evasion capabilities, and reduced pathogenicity. The application of high-throughput sequencing technologies in the epidemic prevention and control of COVID-19 provides crucial insights into the evolutionary and variant characteristics of the virus at the genomic level, thereby holding significant implications for the prevention and control of the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Yin
- Department of Laboratory, Jining Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Jining, China
| | - Wei Liu
- Department of Laboratory, Jining Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Jining, China
| | - Yajuan Jiang
- Department of Laboratory, Jining Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Jining, China
| | - Qiang Feng
- Department of Laboratory, Rencheng Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Jining, China
| | - Xiaoyu Wang
- Department of Laboratory, Jining Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Jining, China
| | - Huixin Dou
- Department of Laboratory, Jining Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Jining, China
| | - Zanzan Liu
- Department of Laboratory, Jining Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Jining, China
| | - Feifei He
- Computer Information Technology, Northern Arizona University, Arizona, USA
| | - Yingying Fan
- Department of Laboratory, Jining Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Jining, China.
| | - Baihai Jiao
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT, USA.
| | - Boyan Jiao
- Department of Laboratory, Jining Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Jining, China.
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Švec X, Štorkánová H, Trinh-Minh T, Tran MC, Štorkánová L, Hulejová H, Oreská S, Heřmánková B, Bečvář R, Pavelka K, Vencovský J, Klingelhöfer J, Hussain RI, Hallén J, Šenolt L, Distler JHW, Tomčík M. S100A4-neutralizing monoclonal antibody 6B12 counteracts the established experimental skin fibrosis induced by bleomycin. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2024; 63:817-825. [PMID: 37314987 PMCID: PMC10907816 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/kead295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Revised: 05/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Our previous studies have demonstrated that the Damage Associated Molecular Pattern (DAMP) protein, S100A4, is overexpressed in the involved skin and peripheral blood of patients with SSc. It is associated with skin and lung involvement, and disease activity. By contrast, lack of S100A4 prevented the development of experimental dermal fibrosis. Herein we aimed to evaluate the effect of murine anti-S100A4 mAb 6B12 in the treatment of preestablished experimental dermal fibrosis. METHODS The effects of 6B12 were assessed at therapeutic dosages in a modified bleomycin-induced dermal fibrosis mouse model by evaluating fibrotic (dermal thickness, proliferation of myofibroblasts, hydroxyproline content, phosphorylated Smad3-positive cell count) and inflammatory (leukocytes infiltrating the lesional skin, systemic levels of selected cytokines and chemokines) outcomes, and transcriptional profiling (RNA sequencing). RESULTS Treatment with 7.5 mg/kg 6B12 attenuated and might even reduce pre-existing dermal fibrosis induced by bleomycin as evidenced by reduction in dermal thickness, myofibroblast count and collagen content. These antifibrotic effects were mediated by the downregulation of TGF-β/Smad signalling and partially by reducing the number of leukocytes infiltrating the lesional skin and decrease in the systemic levels of IL-1α, eotaxin, CCL2 and CCL5. Moreover, transcriptional profiling demonstrated that 7.5 mg/kg 6B12 also modulated several profibrotic and proinflammatory processes relevant to the pathogenesis of SSc. CONCLUSION Targeting S100A4 by the 6B12 mAb demonstrated potent antifibrotic and anti-inflammatory effects on bleomycin-induced dermal fibrosis and provided further evidence for the vital role of S100A4 in the pathophysiology of SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Švec
- Institute of Rheumatology, Prague, Czech Republic
- 1st Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Hana Štorkánová
- Institute of Rheumatology, Prague, Czech Republic
- Department of Rheumatology, 1st Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Thuong Trinh-Minh
- Clinic for Rheumatology, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty of Heinrich-Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany
- Hiller Research Center, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty of Heinrich-Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Manh Cuong Tran
- Clinic for Rheumatology, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty of Heinrich-Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany
- Hiller Research Center, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty of Heinrich-Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | | | | | - Sabína Oreská
- Institute of Rheumatology, Prague, Czech Republic
- Department of Rheumatology, 1st Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Barbora Heřmánková
- Institute of Rheumatology, Prague, Czech Republic
- Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Radim Bečvář
- Institute of Rheumatology, Prague, Czech Republic
- Department of Rheumatology, 1st Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Karel Pavelka
- Institute of Rheumatology, Prague, Czech Republic
- Department of Rheumatology, 1st Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jiří Vencovský
- Institute of Rheumatology, Prague, Czech Republic
- Department of Rheumatology, 1st Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | | | - Rizwan I Hussain
- Arxx Therapeutics, Oslo, Norway
- Agiana Pharmaceuticals, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Ladislav Šenolt
- Institute of Rheumatology, Prague, Czech Republic
- Department of Rheumatology, 1st Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jörg H W Distler
- Clinic for Rheumatology, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty of Heinrich-Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany
- Hiller Research Center, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty of Heinrich-Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Michal Tomčík
- Institute of Rheumatology, Prague, Czech Republic
- Department of Rheumatology, 1st Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
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O'Reilly S. S100A4 a classical DAMP as a therapeutic target in fibrosis. Matrix Biol 2024; 127:1-7. [PMID: 38219976 DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2024.01.002] [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: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
Fibrosis regardless of aetiology is characterised by persistently activated myofibroblasts that are contractile and secrete excessive amounts of extracellular matrix molecules that leads to loss of organ function. Damage-Associated Molecular Patterns (DAMPs) are endogenous host-derived molecules that are released from cells dying or under stress that can be triggered by a variety of insults, either chemical or physical, leading to an inflammatory response. Among these DAMPs is S100A4, part of the S100 family of calcium binding proteins that participate in a variety of cellular processes. S100A4 was first described in context of cancer as a pro-metastatic factor. It is now appreciated that aside from its role in cancer promotion, S100A4 is intimately involved in tissue fibrosis. The extracellular form of S100A4 exerts its effects through multiple receptors including Toll-Like Receptor 4 and RAGE to evoke signalling cascades involving downstream mediators facilitating extracellular matrix deposition and myofibroblast generation and can play a role in persistent activation of myofibroblasts. S100A4 may be best understood as an amplifier of inflammatory and fibrotic processes. S100A4 appears critical in systemic sclerosis pathogenesis and blocking the extracellular form of S100A4 in vivo in various animal models of disease mitigates fibrosis and may even reverse established disease. This review appraises S100A4's position as a DAMP and its role in fibrotic conditions and highlight therapeutically targeting this protein to halt fibrosis, suggesting that it is a tractable target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven O'Reilly
- Biosciences, Durham University, South Road, Durham, United Kingdom.
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Kuroda K, Kiya K, Matsuzaki S, Takamura H, Otani N, Tomita K, Kawai K, Fujiwara T, Nakai K, Onishi A, Katayama T, Kubo T. Altered actin dynamics is possibly implicated in the inhibition of mechanical stimulation-induced dermal fibroblast differentiation into myofibroblasts. Exp Dermatol 2023; 32:2012-2022. [PMID: 37724850 DOI: 10.1111/exd.14933] [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: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023]
Abstract
The formation of hypertrophic scars and keloids is strongly associated with mechanical stimulation, and myofibroblasts are known to play a major role in abnormal scar formation. Wounds in patients with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) become inconspicuous and lack the tendency to form abnormal scars. We hypothesized that there would be a unique response to mechanical stimulation and subsequent scar formation in NF1. To test this hypothesis, we investigated the molecular mechanisms of differentiation into myofibroblasts in NF1-derived fibroblasts and neurofibromin-depleted fibroblasts and examined actin dynamics, which is involved in fibroblast differentiation, with a focus on the pathway linking LIMK2/cofilin to actin dynamics. In normal fibroblasts, expression of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), a marker of myofibroblasts, significantly increased after mechanical stimulation, whereas in NF1-derived and neurofibromin-depleted fibroblasts, α-SMA expression did not change. Phosphorylation of cofilin and subsequent actin polymerization did not increase in NF1-derived and neurofibromin-depleted fibroblasts after mechanical stimulation. Finally, in normal fibroblasts treated with Jasplakinolide, an actin stabilizer, α-SMA expression did not change after mechanical stimulation. Therefore, when neurofibromin was dysfunctional or depleted, subsequent actin polymerization did not occur in response to mechanical stimulation, which may have led to the unchanged expression of α-SMA. We believe this molecular pathway can be a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of abnormal scars.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuya Kuroda
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Koichiro Kiya
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Shinsuke Matsuzaki
- Department of Child Development and Molecular Brain Science, United Graduate School of Child Development, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
- Department of Radiological Sciences, Faculty of Medical Science Technology, Morinomiya University of Medical Sciences, Osaka, Japan
| | - Hironori Takamura
- Department of Child Development and Molecular Brain Science, United Graduate School of Child Development, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Naoya Otani
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Koichi Tomita
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Kenichiro Kawai
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Hyogo College of Medicine, Nishinomiya, Japan
| | - Toshihiro Fujiwara
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Hyogo College of Medicine, Nishinomiya, Japan
| | - Kunihiro Nakai
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University of Fukui Hospital, Fukui, Japan
| | - Ayako Onishi
- Inclusive Medical Science Research Institute, Morinomiya University of Medical Sciences, Osaka, Japan
| | - Taiichi Katayama
- Department of Child Development and Molecular Brain Science, United Graduate School of Child Development, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Tateki Kubo
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
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Denton CP, Xu S, Zhang F, Maclean RH, Clark KEN, Borchert S, Hussain RI, Klingelhöfer J, Hallén J, Ong VH. Clinical and pathogenic significance of S100A4 overexpression in systemic sclerosis. Ann Rheum Dis 2023; 82:1205-1217. [PMID: 37414521 DOI: 10.1136/ard-2023-223862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We have studied the damage-associated molecular pattern protein S100A4 as a driver of fibroblast activation in systemic sclerosis (SSc). METHODS S100A4 protein concentration was measured by ELISA in serum of SSc (n=94) and healthy controls (n=15). Protein expression in skin fibroblast cultures from diffuse cutaneous SSc (SScF, n=6) and healthy controls (normal fibroblasts (NF), n=6) was assessed. Recombinant S100A4 and a high affinity anti-S100A4 neutralising monoclonal antibody (AX-202) were tested on SScF and NF. RESULTS Median (range) S100A4 (ng/mL) was higher in serum of SSc (89.9 (15.0-240.0)) than healthy controls (71.4 (7.9-131.8); p=0.027). There was association with SSc-interstitial lung disease (p=0.025, n=55), scleroderma renal crisis (p=0.026, n=4). Median (range) S100A4 (ng/mL) was higher in culture supernatants of SScF (4.19 (0.52-8.42)) than NF controls (0.28 (0.02-3.29); p<0.0001). AX-202 reduced the constitutive profibrotic gene and protein expression phenotype of SScF. Genome-wide RNA sequencing analysis identified an S100A4 activated signature in NF overlapping the hallmark gene expression signature of SScF. Thus, 464 differentially expressed genes (false discovery rate (FDR) <0.001 and fold change (FC) >1.5) induced in NF by S100A4 were also constitutively overexpressed, and downregulated by AX-202, in SScF. Pathway mapping of these S100A4 dependent genes in SSc showed the most significant enriched Kegg pathways (FDR <0.001) were regulation of stem cell pluripotency (4.6-fold) and metabolic pathways (1.9-fold). CONCLUSION Our findings provide compelling evidence for a profibrotic role for S100A4 in SSc and suggest that serum level may be a biomarker of major organ manifestations and disease severity. This study supports examining the therapeutic potential of targeting S100A4 in SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Shiwen Xu
- Centre for Rheumatology, Division of Medicine, UCL, London, UK
| | - Fenge Zhang
- Centre for Rheumatology, Division of Medicine, UCL, London, UK
| | - Rory H Maclean
- Centre for Rheumatology, Division of Medicine, UCL, London, UK
| | | | | | | | | | - Jonas Hallén
- Research Department, Arxx Therapeutics, Oslo, Norway
| | - Voon H Ong
- Centre for Rheumatology, Division of Medicine, UCL, London, UK
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Qu L, Jiao B. The Interplay between Immune and Metabolic Pathways in Kidney Disease. Cells 2023; 12:1584. [PMID: 37371054 DOI: 10.3390/cells12121584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Kidney disease is a significant health problem worldwide, affecting an estimated 10% of the global population. Kidney disease encompasses a diverse group of disorders that vary in their underlying pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and outcomes. These disorders include acute kidney injury (AKI), chronic kidney disease (CKD), glomerulonephritis, nephrotic syndrome, polycystic kidney disease, diabetic kidney disease, and many others. Despite their distinct etiologies, these disorders share a common feature of immune system dysregulation and metabolic disturbances. The immune system and metabolic pathways are intimately connected and interact to modulate the pathogenesis of kidney diseases. The dysregulation of immune responses in kidney diseases includes a complex interplay between various immune cell types, including resident and infiltrating immune cells, cytokines, chemokines, and complement factors. These immune factors can trigger and perpetuate kidney inflammation, causing renal tissue injury and progressive fibrosis. In addition, metabolic pathways play critical roles in the pathogenesis of kidney diseases, including glucose and lipid metabolism, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and altered nutrient sensing. Dysregulation of these metabolic pathways contributes to the progression of kidney disease by inducing renal tubular injury, apoptosis, and fibrosis. Recent studies have provided insights into the intricate interplay between immune and metabolic pathways in kidney diseases, revealing novel therapeutic targets for the prevention and treatment of kidney diseases. Potential therapeutic strategies include modulating immune responses through targeting key immune factors or inhibiting pro-inflammatory signaling pathways, improving mitochondrial function, and targeting nutrient-sensing pathways, such as mTOR, AMPK, and SIRT1. This review highlights the importance of the interplay between immune and metabolic pathways in kidney diseases and the potential therapeutic implications of targeting these pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lili Qu
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT 06030-1405, USA
| | - Baihai Jiao
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT 06030-1405, USA
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Firl CEM, Halushka M, Fraser N, Masson M, Cuneo BF, Saxena A, Clancy R, Buyon J. Contribution of S100A4-expressing fibroblasts to anti-SSA/Ro-associated atrioventricular nodal calcification and soluble S100A4 as a biomarker of clinical severity. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1114808. [PMID: 37090702 PMCID: PMC10117984 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1114808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Fibrosis and dystrophic calcification disrupting conduction tissue architecture are histopathological lesions characterizing cardiac manifestations of neonatal lupus (cardiac-NL) associated with maternal anti-SSA/Ro antibodies. Objectives Increased appreciation of heterogeneity in fibroblasts encourages re-examination of existing models with the consideration of multiple fibroblast subtypes (and their unique functional differences) in mind. This study addressed fibroblast heterogeneity by examining expression of α-Smooth Muscle Actin (myofibroblasts) and of S100 Calcium-Binding Protein A4 (S100A4). Methods Using a previously established model of rheumatic scarring/fibrosis in vitro, supported by the evaluation of cord blood from cardiac-NL neonates and their healthy (anti-SSA/Ro-exposed) counterparts, and autopsy tissue from fetuses dying with cardiac-NL, the current study was initiated to more clearly define and distinguish the S100A4-positive fibroblast in the fetal cardiac environment. Results S100A4 immunostaining was observed in 4 cardiac-NL hearts with positional identity in the conduction system at regions of dystrophic calcification but not fibrotic zones, the latter containing only myofibroblasts. In vitro, fibroblasts cultured with supernatants of macrophages transfected with hY3 (noncoding ssRNA) differentiated into myofibroblasts or S100A4+ fibroblasts. Myofibroblasts expressed collagen while S100A4+ fibroblasts expressed pro-angiogenic cytokines and proteases that degrade collagen. Cord blood levels of S100A4 in anti-SSA/Ro-exposed neonates tracked disease severity and, in discordant twins, distinguished affected from unaffected. Conclusions These findings position the S100A4+ fibroblast alongside the canonical myofibroblast in the pathogenesis of cardiac-NL. Neonatal S100A4 levels support a novel biomarker of poor prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina E. M. Firl
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Marc Halushka
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Nicola Fraser
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Mala Masson
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Bettina F. Cuneo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschultz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Amit Saxena
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Robert Clancy
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Jill Buyon
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
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