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Kiełbowski K, Plewa P, Bratborska AW, Bakinowska E, Pawlik A. JAK Inhibitors in Rheumatoid Arthritis: Immunomodulatory Properties and Clinical Efficacy. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:8327. [PMID: 39125897 PMCID: PMC11311960 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25158327] [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: 06/19/2024] [Revised: 07/20/2024] [Accepted: 07/28/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a highly prevalent autoimmune disorder. The pathogenesis of the disease is complex and involves various cellular populations, including fibroblast-like synoviocytes, macrophages, and T cells, among others. Identification of signalling pathways and molecules that actively contribute to the development of the disease is crucial to understanding the mechanisms involved in the chronic inflammatory environment present in affected joints. Recent studies have demonstrated that the Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT) pathway regulates the behaviour of immune cells and contributes to the progression of RA. Several JAK inhibitors, such as tofacitinib, baricitinib, upadacitinib, and filgocitinib, have been developed, and their efficacy and safety in patients with RA have been comprehensively investigated in a number of clinical trials. Consequently, JAK inhibitors have been approved and registered as a treatment for patients with RA. In this review, we discuss the involvement of JAK/STAT signalling in the pathogenesis of RA and summarise the potential beneficial effects of JAK inhibitors in cells implicated in the pathogenesis of the disease. Moreover, we present the most important phase 3 clinical trials that evaluated the use of these agents in patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kajetan Kiełbowski
- Department of Physiology, Pomeranian Medical University, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland; (K.K.); (E.B.)
| | - Paulina Plewa
- Institute of Biology, University of Szczecin, 71-412 Szczecin, Poland;
| | | | - Estera Bakinowska
- Department of Physiology, Pomeranian Medical University, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland; (K.K.); (E.B.)
| | - Andrzej Pawlik
- Department of Physiology, Pomeranian Medical University, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland; (K.K.); (E.B.)
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Wang Z, Wang J, Lan T, Zhang L, Yan Z, Zhang N, Xu Y, Tao Q. Role and mechanism of fibroblast-activated protein-α expression on the surface of fibroblast-like synoviocytes in rheumatoid arthritis. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1135384. [PMID: 37006278 PMCID: PMC10064071 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1135384] [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: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibroblast-activated protein-α (FAP) is a type II integrated serine protease expressed by activated fibroblasts during fibrosis or inflammation. Fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLSs) in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) synovial sites abundantly and stably overexpress FAP and play important roles in regulating the cellular immune, inflammatory, invasion, migration, proliferation, and angiogenesis responses in the synovial region. Overexpression of FAP is regulated by the initial inflammatory microenvironment of the disease and epigenetic signaling, which promotes RA development by regulating FLSs or affecting the signaling cross-linking FLSs with other cells at the local synovium and inflammatory stimulation. At present, several treatment options targeting FAP are in the process of development. This review discusses the basic features of FAP expressed on the surface of FLSs and its role in RA pathophysiology and advances in targeted therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zihan Wang
- Traditional Chinese Medicine Department of Rheumatism, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
- Graduate school, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Jinping Wang
- Traditional Chinese Medicine Department of Rheumatism, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Tianyi Lan
- Graduate school, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Liubo Zhang
- Graduate school, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Zeran Yan
- Traditional Chinese Medicine Department of Rheumatism, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Nan Zhang
- Traditional Chinese Medicine Department of Rheumatism, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yuan Xu
- Traditional Chinese Medicine Department of Rheumatism, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Yuan Xu, ; Qingwen Tao,
| | - Qingwen Tao
- Traditional Chinese Medicine Department of Rheumatism, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Yuan Xu, ; Qingwen Tao,
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Chen W, Fang Y, Wang H, Tan X, Zhu X, Xu Z, Jiang H, Wu X, Hong W, Wang X, Tu J, Wei W. Role of chemokine receptor 2 in rheumatoid arthritis: A research update. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 116:109755. [PMID: 36724626 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.109755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a multisystemic and inflammatory autoimmune disease characterized by joint destruction. The C-C motif chemokine receptor 2 (CCR2) is mainly expressed in monocytes and T cells, initiating their migration to sites of inflammation, ultimately leading to cartilage damage and bone destruction. CCR2 has long been considered a prospective target for treating autoimmune diseases. However, clinical studies on inhibitors or neutralizing antibodies against CCR2 in RA have exhibited limited efficacy. Recent evidence indicates that CCR2 may play different roles in RA. Hence, a comprehensive understanding regarding the role of CCR2 may facilitate the development of targeted drugs and provide novel insights for improving CCL2-mediated inflammatory diseases. This review summarizes the biological characteristics of CCR2, the related signaling pathways, and recent developments in CCR2-targeting therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weile Chen
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Yilong Fang
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Huihui Wang
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Xuewen Tan
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Xiangling Zhu
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Zhen Xu
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Haifeng Jiang
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Xuming Wu
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Wenming Hong
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Xinming Wang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Jiajie Tu
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Hefei, China.
| | - Wei Wei
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Hefei, China.
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4
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Tucci G, Garufi C, Pacella I, Zagaglioni M, Pinzon Grimaldos A, Ceccarelli F, Conti F, Spinelli FR, Piconese S. Baricitinib therapy response in rheumatoid arthritis patients associates to STAT1 phosphorylation in monocytes. Front Immunol 2022; 13:932240. [PMID: 35958600 PMCID: PMC9357974 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.932240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Baricitinib is a Janus kinase (JAK) 1 and 2 inhibitor approved for treating rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The JAK/STAT system is essential in the intracellular signaling of different cytokines and in the activation process of the monocyte lineage. This study verifies the effects of baricitinib on STAT phosphorylation in monocytes of RA patients and evaluates the correlation between STAT phosphorylation and response to therapy. We evaluated the disease activity of patients (DAS28CRP) at baseline (T0) and after 4 and 12 weeks (T1–T3) of treatment with baricitinib, dividing them into responders (n = 7) and non-responders (n = 7) based on the reduction of DAS28CRP between T0 and T1 of at least 1.2 points. Through flow cytometry, STAT1 phosphorylation was analyzed at T0/T1/T3 in monocytes, at basal conditions and after IL2, IFNα, and IL6 stimulation. We showed that monocyte frequency decreased from T0 to T1 only in responders. Regarding the phosphorylation of STAT1, we observed a tendency for higher basal pSTAT1 in monocytes of non-responder patients and, after 4 weeks, a significant reduction of cytokine-induced pSTAT1 in monocytes of responders compared with non-responders. The single IFNα stimulation only partially recapitulated the differences in STAT1 phosphorylation between the two patient subgroups. Finally, responders showed an increased IFN signature at baseline compared with non-responders. These results may suggest that monocyte frequency and STAT1 phosphorylation in circulating monocytes could represent early markers of response to baricitinib therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gloria Tucci
- Department of Internal Clinical Sciences, Anesthesiology and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Cristina Garufi
- Department of Internal Clinical Sciences, Anesthesiology and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Ilenia Pacella
- Department of Internal Clinical Sciences, Anesthesiology and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Marta Zagaglioni
- Department of Internal Clinical Sciences, Anesthesiology and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Pinzon Grimaldos
- Department of Internal Clinical Sciences, Anesthesiology and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Fulvia Ceccarelli
- Department of Internal Clinical Sciences, Anesthesiology and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Conti
- Department of Internal Clinical Sciences, Anesthesiology and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Romana Spinelli
- Department of Internal Clinical Sciences, Anesthesiology and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Piconese
- Department of Internal Clinical Sciences, Anesthesiology and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Unità di Neuroimmunologia, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Rome, Italy
- Laboratory Affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia—Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Rome, Italy
- *Correspondence: Silvia Piconese,
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Wu JY, Chen YJ, Fu XQ, Li JK, Chou JY, Yin CL, Bai JX, Wu Y, Wang XQ, Li ASM, Wong LY, Yu ZL. Chrysoeriol suppresses hyperproliferation of rheumatoid arthritis fibroblast-like synoviocytes and inhibits JAK2/STAT3 signaling. BMC Complement Med Ther 2022; 22:73. [PMID: 35296317 PMCID: PMC8928618 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-022-03553-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS) have cancer cell-like characteristics, such as abnormal proliferation and resistance to apoptosis, and play a pathogenic role in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Hyperproliferation of RA-FLS that can be triggered by the activation of interleukin-6/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (IL-6/STAT3) signaling destructs cartilage and bone in RA patients. Chrysoeriol is a flavone found in medicinal herbs such as Chrysanthemi Indici Flos (the dried capitulum of Chrysanthemum indicum L.). These herbs are commonly used in treating RA. Chrysoeriol has been shown to exert anti-inflammatory effects and inhibit STAT3 signaling in our previous studies. This study aimed to determine whether chrysoeriol inhibits hyperproliferation of RA-FLS, and whether inhibiting STAT3 signaling is one of the underlying mechanisms. Methods IL-6/soluble IL-6 receptor (IL-6/sIL-6R)-stimulated RA-FLS were used to evaluate the effects of chrysoeriol. CCK-8 assay and crystal violet staining were used to examine cell proliferation. Annexin V-FITC/PI double staining was used to detect cell apoptosis. Western blotting was employed to determine protein levels. Results Chrysoeriol suppressed hyperproliferation of, and evoked apoptosis in, IL-6/sIL-6R-stimulated RA-FLS. The apoptotic effect of chrysoeriol was verified by its ability to cleave caspase-3 and caspase-9. Mechanistic studies revealed that chrysoeriol inhibited activation/phosphorylation of Janus kinase 2 (JAK2, Tyr1007/1008) and STAT3 (Tyr705); decreased STAT3 nuclear level and down-regulated protein levels of Bcl-2 and Mcl-1 that are transcriptionally regulated by STAT3. Over-activation of STAT3 significantly diminished anti-proliferative effects of chrysoeriol in IL-6/sIL-6R-stimulated RA-FLS. Conclusions We for the first time demonstrated that chrysoeriol suppresses hyperproliferation of RA-FLS, and suppression of JAK2/STAT3 signaling contributes to the underlying mechanisms. This study provides pharmacological and chemical justifications for the traditional use of chrysoeriol-containing herbs in treating RA, and provides a pharmacological basis for developing chrysoeriol into a novel anti-RA agent. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12906-022-03553-w.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Ying Wu
- Research and Development Centre for Natural Health Products, HKBU Shenzhen Institute of Research and Continuing Education, Shenzhen, China.,School of Chinese Medicine, Consun Chinese Medicines Research Centre for Renal Diseases, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China.,Centre for Cancer and Inflammation Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ying-Jie Chen
- Research and Development Centre for Natural Health Products, HKBU Shenzhen Institute of Research and Continuing Education, Shenzhen, China.,School of Chinese Medicine, Consun Chinese Medicines Research Centre for Renal Diseases, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China.,Centre for Cancer and Inflammation Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Xiu-Qiong Fu
- Research and Development Centre for Natural Health Products, HKBU Shenzhen Institute of Research and Continuing Education, Shenzhen, China.,School of Chinese Medicine, Consun Chinese Medicines Research Centre for Renal Diseases, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China.,Centre for Cancer and Inflammation Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Jun-Kui Li
- Research and Development Centre for Natural Health Products, HKBU Shenzhen Institute of Research and Continuing Education, Shenzhen, China.,School of Chinese Medicine, Consun Chinese Medicines Research Centre for Renal Diseases, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China.,Centre for Cancer and Inflammation Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ji-Yao Chou
- Research and Development Centre for Natural Health Products, HKBU Shenzhen Institute of Research and Continuing Education, Shenzhen, China.,School of Chinese Medicine, Consun Chinese Medicines Research Centre for Renal Diseases, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China.,Centre for Cancer and Inflammation Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Cheng-Le Yin
- Research and Development Centre for Natural Health Products, HKBU Shenzhen Institute of Research and Continuing Education, Shenzhen, China.,School of Chinese Medicine, Consun Chinese Medicines Research Centre for Renal Diseases, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China.,Centre for Cancer and Inflammation Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Jing-Xuan Bai
- Research and Development Centre for Natural Health Products, HKBU Shenzhen Institute of Research and Continuing Education, Shenzhen, China.,School of Chinese Medicine, Consun Chinese Medicines Research Centre for Renal Diseases, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China.,Centre for Cancer and Inflammation Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ying Wu
- Research and Development Centre for Natural Health Products, HKBU Shenzhen Institute of Research and Continuing Education, Shenzhen, China.,School of Chinese Medicine, Consun Chinese Medicines Research Centre for Renal Diseases, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China.,Centre for Cancer and Inflammation Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Xiao-Qi Wang
- Research and Development Centre for Natural Health Products, HKBU Shenzhen Institute of Research and Continuing Education, Shenzhen, China.,School of Chinese Medicine, Consun Chinese Medicines Research Centre for Renal Diseases, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China.,Centre for Cancer and Inflammation Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Amy Sze-Man Li
- Research and Development Centre for Natural Health Products, HKBU Shenzhen Institute of Research and Continuing Education, Shenzhen, China.,School of Chinese Medicine, Consun Chinese Medicines Research Centre for Renal Diseases, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China.,Centre for Cancer and Inflammation Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Lut Yi Wong
- Research and Development Centre for Natural Health Products, HKBU Shenzhen Institute of Research and Continuing Education, Shenzhen, China.,School of Chinese Medicine, Consun Chinese Medicines Research Centre for Renal Diseases, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China.,Centre for Cancer and Inflammation Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Zhi-Ling Yu
- Research and Development Centre for Natural Health Products, HKBU Shenzhen Institute of Research and Continuing Education, Shenzhen, China. .,School of Chinese Medicine, Consun Chinese Medicines Research Centre for Renal Diseases, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China. .,Centre for Cancer and Inflammation Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong, China. .,JaneClare Transdermal TCM Therapy Laboratory, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China.
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Zhao MY, Zhang W, Rao GW. Targeting Janus Kinase (JAK) for Fighting Diseases: The Research of JAK Inhibitor Drugs. Curr Med Chem 2022; 29:5010-5040. [PMID: 35255783 DOI: 10.2174/1568026622666220307124142] [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: 08/11/2021] [Revised: 12/11/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Janus Kinase (JAK), a nonreceptor protein tyrosine kinase, has emerged as an excellent target through research and development since its discovery in the 1990s. As novel small-molecule targeted drugs, JAK inhibitor drugs have been successfully used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), myofibrosis (MF) and ulcerative colitis (UC). With the gradual development of JAK targets in the market, JAK inhibitors have also received very considerable feedback in the treatment of autoimmune diseases such as atopic dermatitis (AD), Crohn's disease (CD) and graft-versus host disease (GVHD). This article reviews the research progress of JAK inhibitor drugs: introducing the existing JAK inhibitors on the market and some JAK inhibitors in clinical trials currently. In addition, the synthesis of various types of JAK inhibitors were summarized, and the effects of different drug structures on drug inhibition and selectivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min-Yan Zhao
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, and Institute of Drug Development & Chemical Biology, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, P. R. China
| | - Wen Zhang
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, and Institute of Drug Development & Chemical Biology, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, P. R. China
| | - Guo-Wu Rao
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, and Institute of Drug Development & Chemical Biology, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, P. R. China
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7
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Garufi C, Maclean M, Gadina M, Spinelli FR. Affecting the effectors: JAK inhibitors modulation of immune cell numbers and functions in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2022; 18:309-319. [PMID: 35168456 DOI: 10.1080/1744666x.2022.2042254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The Janus kinase family includes four members - JAK1, JAK2, JAK3, TYK2 that are selectively associated with type I and II cytokine receptors. Jak-inhibitors (Jakinibs) are a new class of drugs for treating inflammatory diseases. Five Jakinibs are currently available for Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): tofacitinib, baricitinib, upadacitinib, filgotinib and peficitinib. Considering the role of cytokines and growth factors in immune cell survival and activation, the anti-proliferative and suppressive effects of Jakinibs on these cells are predictable. AREAS COVERED This review summarizes Jakinibs' effects of on immune populations in vitro and in vivo. In vitro, Jakinibs affected T and B lymphocytes, monocytes, neutrophils and dendritic cell proliferation. T helper, B cell differentiation and cytokine secretion was impaired. Accordingly, changes in the number of lymphocytes, natural killer (NK) cells and neutrophils have been reported during the randomized clinical trials with all the Jakinibs, reverting after drug withdrawal. EXPERT OPINION In vitro and in vivo studies showed that the numbers and the function of immune cells are influenced by Jakinibs. Nonetheless, their effects do not seem to represent a major safety issue as these changes do not correlate with the onset of serious infection despite the increased rates of herpes zoster reactivation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Garufi
- Sapienza Università di Roma, Dipartimento di Scienze Cliniche, Internistiche, Anestesiologiche e Cardiovascolari-Reumatologia, Roma, Italia
| | - Mary Maclean
- Translational Immunology Section, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Massimo Gadina
- Translational Immunology Section, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Francesca Romana Spinelli
- Sapienza Università di Roma, Dipartimento di Scienze Cliniche, Internistiche, Anestesiologiche e Cardiovascolari-Reumatologia, Roma, Italia
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8
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Srivastava S, Samarpita S, Ganesan R, Rasool M. CYT387 Inhibits the Hyperproliferative Potential of Fibroblast-like Synoviocytes via Modulation of IL-6/JAK1/STAT3 Signaling in Rheumatoid Arthritis. Immunol Invest 2021; 51:1582-1597. [PMID: 34704880 DOI: 10.1080/08820139.2021.1994589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS) are the critical effector cells primarily involved in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) disease pathogenesis. Interleukin (IL)-6, a proinflammatory cytokine most abundantly expressed in the rheumatoid synovium, promotes Janus kinase (JAK)/signal transducer and transcriptional activator (STAT) signaling cascade activation in RA-FLS, thus leading to its aggressive phenotype, invasiveness, and joint destruction. Momelotinib (CYT387) is a selective small-molecule inhibitor of JAK1/2 and is clinically approved to treat myelofibrosis. However, the therapeutic efficacy of CYT387 in FLS mediated RA pathogenesis is less known. In the present study, we investigated the modulatory effect of CYT387 on IL6/JAK/STAT signaling cascade in FLS induced RA pathogenesis. CYT387 treatment inhibited IL-6 induced high proliferative and migratory potential of FLS cells isolated from adjuvant-induced arthritic (AA) rats. CYT387 reduced the expression of PRMT5, survivin, and HIF-1α mediated by IL-6/sIL-6R in AA-FLS in a dose-dependent manner. The IL-6/sIL-6R induced expression of angiogenic factors such as VEGF and PIGF in AA-FLS cells was found downregulated by CYT387 treatment. Importantly, CYT387 significantly reduced IL-6/sIL-6R dependent activation of JAK1 and STAT3 and increased SOCS3 expression in AA-FLS cells. Next, the S3I-201 mediated blockade of STAT3 activation supported the inhibitory effect of CYT387 on IL-6/JAK1/STAT3 signaling cascade in AA-FLS. Overall, this study proves that CYT387 inhibits proliferation, migration, and pathogenic disease potential of FLS isolated from adjuvant-induced arthritic (AA) rats via targeting IL-6/JAK1/STAT3 signaling cascade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susmita Srivastava
- Immunopathology Lab, School of BioSciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore, India
| | - Snigdha Samarpita
- Immunopathology Lab, School of BioSciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore, India
| | - Ramamoorthi Ganesan
- Immunology Program, Department of Clinical Science, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Mahaboobkhan Rasool
- Immunopathology Lab, School of BioSciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore, India
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9
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Quinone-rich fraction of Ardisia crispa (Thunb.) A. DC roots alters angiogenic cascade in collagen-induced arthritis. Inflammopharmacology 2021; 29:771-788. [PMID: 34091811 DOI: 10.1007/s10787-021-00816-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic joint disorder, of which, excessive angiogenesis is the well-established factor contributing to synovitis and joint destruction. Ardisia crispa (Primulaceae) is a medicinal herb with evidenced anti-angiogenic properties, attributed to 2-methoxy-6-undecyl-1,4-benzoquinone (BQ) found in its roots. However, it is still unclear how BQ is able to inhibit angiogenesis in RA. Hence, we investigated the anti-arthritic potential of quinone-rich fraction (QRF) separated from Ardisia crispa roots hexane extract (ACRH) by targeting angiogenesis on collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) in rats. The QRF was priorly identified by quantifying the BQ content in the fraction using GC-MS. Male Sprague-Dawley rats (n = 6) were initially immunised with type II collagen (150 µg) subcutaneously at the base of the tail on day 0. QRF (3, 10, and 30 mg/kg/day) and celecoxib (5 mg/kg/day) were orally administered for 13 consecutive days starting from day 14 post-induction, except for the vehicle and arthritic controls. QRF at all dosages moderately ameliorated the arthritic scores, ankle swelling, and hind paw oedema with no significant (p > 0.05) modulation on the bodyweights and organ weights (i.e., liver, kidney, and spleen). Treatment with QRF at 3, 10, and 30 mg/kg, significantly (p < 0.05) attenuated VEGF-A, PI3K, AKT, NF-κB, p38, STAT3, and STAT5 proteins and markedly restored the increased synovial microvessel densities (MVD) to the normal level in arthritic rats in a dose-independent manner. In conclusion, QRF conferred the anti-arthritic effect via angiogenesis inhibition in vivo, credited to the BQ content and synergism, at least in part, by other phytoconstituents.
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10
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Wang Q, Zhou X, Yang L, Zhao Y, Chew Z, Xiao J, Liu C, Zheng X, Zheng Y, Shi Q, Liang Q, Wang Y, Wang H. The Natural Compound Notopterol Binds and Targets JAK2/3 to Ameliorate Inflammation and Arthritis. Cell Rep 2021; 32:108158. [PMID: 32937124 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2020.108158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Revised: 06/18/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The traditional Chinese medicinal herb Notopterygium incisum Ting ex H.T. Chang has anti-rheumatism activity, and a mass spectrometry assay of patients' serum after administration of the herb revealed that notopterol is the most abundant component enriched. However, the functions of notopterol and its molecular target in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) treatment remain unknown. Here, we show in different RA mouse strains that both oral and intraperitoneal administration of notopterol result in significant therapeutic effects. Mechanistically, notopterol directly binds Janus kinase (JAK)2 and JAK3 kinase domains to inhibit JAK/signal transducers and activators of transcription (JAK-STAT) activation, leading to reduced production of inflammatory cytokines and chemokines. Critically, combination therapy using both notopterol and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blocker results in enhanced therapeutic effects compared to using TNF blocker alone. We demonstrate that notopterol ameliorates RA pathology by targeting JAK-STAT signaling, raising the possibility that notopterol could be effective in treating other diseases characterized by aberrant JAK-STAT signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiong Wang
- Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China; State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Xin Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China; Cancer Center, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University, School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Long Yang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Shanghai Eighth People's Hospital, Shanghai 200235, China
| | - Yongjian Zhao
- Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Zhihuan Chew
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Jun Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Chang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China; Cancer Center, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University, School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Xin Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Yuxiao Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Qi Shi
- Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Qianqian Liang
- Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China.
| | - Yongjun Wang
- Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China.
| | - Hongyan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China; School of Life Science, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, China.
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11
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Wakabayashi K, Isozaki T, Tsubokura Y, Fukuse S, Kasama T. Eotaxin-1/CCL11 is involved in cell migration in rheumatoid arthritis. Sci Rep 2021; 11:7937. [PMID: 33846499 PMCID: PMC8041786 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-87199-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Eotaxin-1 (CCL11) induces the migration of different leukocyte types by interacting with CCR3. In rheumatoid arthritis (RA), fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS) are pathogenic effectors and a major CCR3-expressing cell. The aim of this study was to investigate the expression and function of CCL11 in RA FLS. The expression of CCL11 and CCR3 was evaluated by ELISA, immunofluorescence and quantitative PCR analysis. The CCL11 levels in serum and synovial fluids (SFs) from RA patients were significantly higher than those in serum from healthy controls and SFs from osteoarthritis patients. CCL11 and CCR3 were expressed in the RA synovial tissue lining layers. The secretion of CCL11 in RA FLS-conditioned medium and the mRNA expression of CCL11 and CCR3 were induced by TNF-α. Furthermore, CCL11 induced the mRNA expression of CCL11 and CCR3. Application of a CCR3 antagonist reduced TNF-α-induced CCL11 secretion from RA FLS. CCL11 induced the migration of RA FLS and monocytes. RA FLS migration was decreased by treatment with CCL11 siRNA. The migration of monocytes to medium conditioned with CCL11 siRNA-transfected and TNF-α-stimulated RA FLS was reduced. These data indicate that the self-amplification of CCL11 via CCR3 may play an important role in cell migration in RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuninobu Wakabayashi
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Showa University School of Medicine, 1-5-8 Hatanodai, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Takeo Isozaki
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Showa University School of Medicine, 1-5-8 Hatanodai, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yumi Tsubokura
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Showa University School of Medicine, 1-5-8 Hatanodai, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Sayaka Fukuse
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Showa University School of Medicine, 1-5-8 Hatanodai, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tsuyoshi Kasama
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Showa University School of Medicine, 1-5-8 Hatanodai, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo, Japan
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12
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Moura RA, Fonseca JE. JAK Inhibitors and Modulation of B Cell Immune Responses in Rheumatoid Arthritis. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 7:607725. [PMID: 33614673 PMCID: PMC7892604 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2020.607725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic, systemic immune-mediated inflammatory disease that can lead to joint destruction, functional disability and substantial comorbidity due to the involvement of multiple organs and systems. B cells have several important roles in RA pathogenesis, namely through autoantibody production, antigen presentation, T cell activation, cytokine release and ectopic lymphoid neogenesis. The success of B cell depletion therapy with rituximab, a monoclonal antibody directed against CD20 expressed by B cells, has further supported B cell intervention in RA development. Despite the efficacy of synthetic and biologic disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) in the treatment of RA, few patients reach sustained remission and refractory disease is a concern that needs critical evaluation and close monitoring. Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors or JAKi are a new class of oral medications recently approved for the treatment of RA. JAK inhibitors suppress the activity of one or more of the JAK family of tyrosine kinases, thus interfering with the JAK-Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription (STAT) signaling pathway. To date, there are five JAK inhibitors (tofacitinib, baricitinib, upadacitinib, peficitinib and filgotinib) approved in the USA, Europe and/ or Japan for RA treatment. Evidence from the literature indicates that JAK inhibitors interfere with B cell functions. In this review, the main results obtained in clinical trials, pharmacokinetic, in vitro and in vivo studies concerning the effects of JAK inhibitors on B cell immune responses in RA are summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita A Moura
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - João Eurico Fonseca
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.,Rheumatology Department, Hospital de Santa Maria, Centro Hospitalar Universitário Lisboa Norte (CHULN), Lisbon Academic Medical Centre, Lisbon, Portugal
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13
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Bonek K, Roszkowski L, Massalska M, Maslinski W, Ciechomska M. Biologic Drugs for Rheumatoid Arthritis in the Context of Biosimilars, Genetics, Epigenetics and COVID-19 Treatment. Cells 2021; 10:323. [PMID: 33557301 PMCID: PMC7914976 DOI: 10.3390/cells10020323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Revised: 01/24/2021] [Accepted: 01/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) affects around 1.2% of the adult population. RA is one of the main reasons for work disability and premature retirement, thus substantially increasing social and economic burden. Biological disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (bDMARDs) were shown to be an effective therapy especially in those rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients, who did not adequately respond to conventional synthetic DMARD therapy. However, despite the proven efficacy, the high cost of the therapy resulted in limitation of the widespread use and unequal access to the care. The introduction of biosimilars, which are much cheaper relative to original drugs, may facilitate the achievement of the therapy by a much broader spectrum of patients. In this review we present the properties of original biologic agents based on cytokine-targeted (blockers of TNF, IL-6, IL-1, GM-CSF) and cell-targeted therapies (aimed to inhibit T cells and B cells properties) as well as biosimilars used in rheumatology. We also analyze the latest update of bDMARDs' possible influence on DNA methylation, miRNA expression and histone modification in RA patients, what might be the important factors toward precise and personalized RA treatment. In addition, during the COVID-19 outbreak, we discuss the usage of biologicals in context of effective and safe COVID-19 treatment. Therefore, early diagnosing along with therapeutic intervention based on personalized drugs targeting disease-specific genes is still needed to relieve symptoms and to improve the quality of life of RA patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krzysztof Bonek
- Department of Rheumatology, National Institute of Geriatrics Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, 02-635 Warsaw, Poland; (K.B.); (L.R.)
| | - Leszek Roszkowski
- Department of Rheumatology, National Institute of Geriatrics Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, 02-635 Warsaw, Poland; (K.B.); (L.R.)
| | - Magdalena Massalska
- Department of Pathophysiology and Immunology, National Institute of Geriatrics Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, 02-635 Warsaw, Poland; (M.M.); (W.M.)
| | - Wlodzimierz Maslinski
- Department of Pathophysiology and Immunology, National Institute of Geriatrics Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, 02-635 Warsaw, Poland; (M.M.); (W.M.)
| | - Marzena Ciechomska
- Department of Pathophysiology and Immunology, National Institute of Geriatrics Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, 02-635 Warsaw, Poland; (M.M.); (W.M.)
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14
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Innate immune response in systemic autoimmune diseases: a potential target of therapy. Inflammopharmacology 2020; 28:1421-1438. [DOI: 10.1007/s10787-020-00762-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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15
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Emori T, Kasahara M, Sugahara S, Hashimoto M, Ito H, Narumiya S, Higashi Y, Fujii Y. Role of JAK-STAT signaling in the pathogenic behavior of fibroblast-like synoviocytes in rheumatoid arthritis: Effect of the novel JAK inhibitor peficitinib. Eur J Pharmacol 2020; 882:173238. [PMID: 32561292 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2020.173238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2019] [Revised: 05/27/2020] [Accepted: 05/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) fibroblast-like synoviocytes (RA-FLS) play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of RA. RA-FLS display passive pro-inflammatory responses and self-directed aggressive responses, such as pro-inflammatory mediator production, reduced apoptosis and formation of a thickened synovial lining. Evidence suggests a role for Janus kinase (JAK)-signal transducer and transcriptional activator (STAT) signaling in the passive response but the aggressive behavior of RA-FLS is poorly understood. The pharmacologic effects of the novel JAK inhibitor, peficitinib, on cytokine-induced intracellular signaling and self-directed aggressive behavior of RA-FLS (e.g., increased expression of apoptosis-resistant genes and sodium nitroprusside-induced apoptosis) were investigated and compared with approved JAK inhibitors. RA-FLS assembly to form a lining-like structure and pro-inflammatory mediator production was investigated in three-dimensional (3D)-micromass culture. Peficitinib inhibited STAT3 phosphorylation in RA-FLS following induction by interferon (IFN)-α2b, IFN-γ, interleukin (IL)-6, oncostatin M, and leukemia inhibitory factor in a concentration-related manner, and was comparable to approved JAK inhibitors, tofacitinib and baricitinib. Peficitinib and tofacitinib suppressed autocrine phosphorylation of STAT3 and expression of apoptosis-resistant genes, and promoted cell death. In 3D-micromass culture, peficitinib reduced multi-layered RA-FLS cells to a thin monolayer, an effect less pronounced with tofacitinib. Both compounds attenuated production of vascular endothelial growth factor-A, matrix metalloproteinases, IL-6 and tumor necrosis factor superfamily-11. This study confirmed the pathogenic role of uncontrolled JAK-STAT signaling in the aggressive and passive responses of RA-FLS that are critical for RA progression. The novel JAK inhibitor peficitinib suppressed the pro-inflammatory behavior of RA-FLS, accelerated cell death and abrogated thickening of the synovium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Emori
- Drug Discovery Research, Astellas Pharma Inc., 21 Miyukiga-oka, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8585, Japan.
| | - Michiko Kasahara
- Drug Discovery Research, Astellas Pharma Inc., 21 Miyukiga-oka, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8585, Japan; Alliance Laboratory for Advanced Medical Research, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, 606-8507, Japan.
| | - Shingo Sugahara
- Drug Discovery Research, Astellas Pharma Inc., 21 Miyukiga-oka, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8585, Japan.
| | - Motomu Hashimoto
- Department of Advanced Medicine for Rheumatic Diseases, 54 Kawara-cho, Shougo-in, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8507, Japan.
| | - Hiromu Ito
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, 54 Kawara-cho, Shougo-in, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8507, Japan.
| | - Shuh Narumiya
- Alliance Laboratory for Advanced Medical Research, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, 606-8507, Japan.
| | - Yasuyuki Higashi
- Drug Discovery Research, Astellas Pharma Inc., 21 Miyukiga-oka, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8585, Japan.
| | - Yasutomo Fujii
- Drug Discovery Research, Astellas Pharma Inc., 21 Miyukiga-oka, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8585, Japan.
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