1
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Zhao X, Hu L, Liu G, Yin X, Gong Q, Li Y, Li Q, Zhou Y, Sun Y, Guo C, Du Z. Fibronectin binds integrin α5β1 to regulate macular neovascularization through the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Exp Eye Res 2024; 242:109880. [PMID: 38552713 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2024.109880] [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: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a progressive, degenerative disease of the macula. The formation of macular neovascularization (MNV) and subretinal fibrosis of AMD is the most classic cause of the loss of vision in older adults worldwide. While the underlying causes of MNV and subretinal fibrosis remain elusive, the common feature of many common retinal diseases is changes the proportions of protein deposition in extracellular matrix (ECM) when compared to normal tissue. In ECM, fibronectin (FN) is a crucial component and plays a pivotal part not only in fibrotic diseases but also in the process of angiogenesis. The study aims to understand the role of ligand FN and its common integrin receptor α5β1 on MNV, and to understand the molecular mechanism involved. To study this, the laser-induced MNV mouse model and the rhesus macaque choroid-retinal endothelial cell line (RF/6A) chemical hypoxia mode were established, and the FN-α5β1 expression levels were detected by immunohistochemistry (IHC) and quantitative real-time PCR analysis (qRT-PCR). Fibronectin expression was silenced using small interfering RNA (siRNA) targeting FN. The tube formation and vitro scratch assays were used to assess the ability to form blood vessels and cell migration. To measure the formation of MNV, immunofluorescence, and Western blot assays were used. These results revealed that the expressions of FN and integrin α5β1 were distinctly increased in the laser-induced MNV mouse model and in the RF/6A cytochemically induced hypoxia model, and the expression tendency was identical. After the use of FN siRNA, the tube formation and migration abilities of the RF/6A cells were lower, the ability of endothelial cells to proliferate was confined and the scope of damage caused by the laser in animal models was significantly cut down. In addition, FN gene knockdown dramatically inhibited the expression of Wnt/β-catenin signal. The interaction of FN with the integrin receptor α5β1 in the constructed model, which may act through the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, was confirmed in this study. In conclusion, FN may be a potential new molecular target for the prevention and treatment of subretinal fibrosis and MNV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoran Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, 16 Jiangsu Road, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Liting Hu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, 16 Jiangsu Road, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Guibo Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, 16 Jiangsu Road, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Xiaoni Yin
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, 16 Jiangsu Road, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Qingyun Gong
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, 16 Jiangsu Road, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Ying Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Linyi People's Hospital, Jiefang Road Number 27, Lanshan District, Linyi, 276003, Shandong, China
| | - Qinghua Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, 16 Jiangsu Road, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Yuzheng Zhou
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, 16 Jiangsu Road, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Yibin Sun
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, 16 Jiangsu Road, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Chunyan Guo
- People's Hospital of Dingxi, Dingxi, 743000, Gansu Province, China.
| | - Zhaodong Du
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, 16 Jiangsu Road, Qingdao, 266003, China.
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2
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Guerrero-Barberà G, Burday N, Costell M. Shaping Oncogenic Microenvironments: Contribution of Fibronectin. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1363004. [PMID: 38660622 PMCID: PMC11039881 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1363004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a complex network of proteins and glycans, dynamically remodeled and specifically tailored to the structure/function of each organ. The malignant transformation of cancer cells is determined by both cell intrinsic properties, such as mutations, and extrinsic variables, such as the mixture of surrounding cells in the tumor microenvironment and the biophysics of the ECM. During cancer progression, the ECM undergoes extensive remodeling, characterized by disruption of the basal lamina, vascular endothelial cell invasion, and development of fibrosis in and around the tumor cells resulting in increased tissue stiffness. This enhanced rigidity leads to aberrant mechanotransduction and further malignant transformation potentiating the de-differentiation, proliferation and invasion of tumor cells. Interestingly, this fibrotic microenvironment is primarily secreted and assembled by non-cancerous cells. Among them, the cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) play a central role. CAFs massively produce fibronectin together with type I collagen. This review delves into the primary interactions and signaling pathways through which fibronectin can support tumorigenesis and metastasis, aiming to provide critical molecular insights for better therapy response prediction.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Mercedes Costell
- Departament of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institut Universitari de Biotecnologia i Biomedicina, Universitat de València, Valencia, Spain
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3
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Kaur B, Miglioranza Scavuzzi B, F Abcouwer S, N Zacks D. A simplified protocol to induce hypoxia in a standard incubator: A focus on retinal cells. Exp Eye Res 2023; 236:109653. [PMID: 37793495 PMCID: PMC10732591 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2023.109653] [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: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
Hypoxia chambers have traditionally been used to induce hypoxia in cell cultures. Cellular responses to hypoxia can also be mimicked with the use of chemicals such as cobalt chloride (CoCl2), which stabilizes hypoxia-inducible factor alpha-subunit proteins. In studies of ocular cells using primary cells and cell lines, such as Müller glial cell (MGC) lines, photoreceptor cell lines, retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cell lines and retinoblastoma cell lines oxygen levels employed in hypoxia chambers range typically between 0.2% and 5% oxygen. For chemical induction of hypoxic response in these cells, the CoCl2 concentrations used typically range from 100 to 600 μM. Here, we describe simplified protocols for stabilizing cellular hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) in cell culture using either a hypoxia chamber or CoCl2. In addition, we also provide a detailed methodology to confirm hypoxia induction by the assessment of protein levels of HIF-1α, which accumulates in response to hypoxic conditions. Furthermore, we provide a summary of conditions applied in previous studies of ocular cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhavneet Kaur
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
| | - Bruna Miglioranza Scavuzzi
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
| | - Steven F Abcouwer
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
| | - David N Zacks
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
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4
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Peng Z, Hao M, Tong H, Yang H, Huang B, Zhang Z, Luo KQ. The interactions between integrin α 5β 1 of liver cancer cells and fibronectin of fibroblasts promote tumor growth and angiogenesis. Int J Biol Sci 2022; 18:5019-5037. [PMID: 35982891 PMCID: PMC9379399 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.72367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) progression is closely related to pathological fibrosis, which involves heterotypic intercellular interactions (HIIs) between liver cancer cells and fibroblasts. Here, we studied them in a direct coculture model, and identified fibronectin from fibroblasts and integrin-α5β1 from liver cancer cells as the primary responsible molecules utilizing CRISPR/Cas9 gene-editing technology. Coculture led to the formation of 3D multilayer microstructures, and obvious fibronectin remodeling was caused by upregulated integrin-α5β1, which greatly promoted cell growth in 3D microstructures. Integrin-α5 was more sensitive and specific than integrin-β1 in this process. Subsequent mechanistic exploration revealed the activation of integrin-Src-FAK, AKT and ERK signaling pathways. Importantly, the growth-promoting effect of HIIs was verified in a xenograft tumor model, in which more blood vessels were observed in bigger tumors derived from the coculture group than that derived from monocultured groups. Hence, we conducted triculture by introducing human umbilical vein endothelial cells, which aligned to and differentiated along multilayer microstructures in an integrin-α5β1 dependent manner. Furthermore, fibronectin, integrin-α5, and integrin-β1 were upregulated in 52 HCC tumors, and fibronectin was related to microvascular invasion. Our findings identify fibronectin, integrin-α5, and integrin-β1 as tumor microenvironment-related targets and provide a basis for combination targeted therapeutic strategies for future HCC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Peng
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao SAR, China
| | - Meng Hao
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao SAR, China
| | - Haibo Tong
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao SAR, China
| | - Hongmei Yang
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao SAR, China
| | - Bin Huang
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao SAR, China
| | - Zhigang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Kathy Qian Luo
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao SAR, China.,Ministry of Education-Frontiers Science Center for Precision Oncology, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao SAR, China
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5
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Bernier-Latmani J, Mauri C, Marcone R, Renevey F, Durot S, He L, Vanlandewijck M, Maclachlan C, Davanture S, Zamboni N, Knott GW, Luther SA, Betsholtz C, Delorenzi M, Brisken C, Petrova TV. ADAMTS18 + villus tip telocytes maintain a polarized VEGFA signaling domain and fenestrations in nutrient-absorbing intestinal blood vessels. Nat Commun 2022; 13:3983. [PMID: 35810168 PMCID: PMC9271081 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-31571-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The small intestinal villus tip is the first point of contact for lumen-derived substances including nutrients and microbial products. Electron microscopy studies from the early 1970s uncovered unusual spatial organization of small intestinal villus tip blood vessels: their exterior, epithelial-facing side is fenestrated, while the side facing the villus stroma is non-fenestrated, covered by pericytes and harbors endothelial nuclei. Such organization optimizes the absorption process, however the molecular mechanisms maintaining this highly specialized structure remain unclear. Here we report that perivascular LGR5+ villus tip telocytes (VTTs) are necessary for maintenance of villus tip endothelial cell polarization and fenestration by sequestering VEGFA signaling. Mechanistically, unique VTT expression of the protease ADAMTS18 is necessary for VEGFA signaling sequestration through limiting fibronectin accumulation. Therefore, we propose a model in which LGR5+ ADAMTS18+ telocytes are necessary to maintain a “just-right” level and location of VEGFA signaling in intestinal villus blood vasculature to ensure on one hand the presence of sufficient endothelial fenestrae, while avoiding excessive leakiness of the vessels and destabilization of villus tip epithelial structures. The molecular mechanisms ensuring the specialized structure of small intestinal villus tip blood vessels are incompletely understood. Here the authors show that ADAMTS18+ telocytes maintain a “just-right” level and location of VEGFA signaling on intestinal villus blood vessels, thereby ensuring the presence of endothelial fenestrae for nutrient absorption, while avoiding excessive leakiness and destabilization of villus tip epithelial structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremiah Bernier-Latmani
- Department of Oncology, Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research Lausanne and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Cristina Mauri
- Department of Oncology, Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research Lausanne and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Rachel Marcone
- Bioinformatics Core Facility, SIB Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - François Renevey
- Department of Immunobiology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Stephan Durot
- Institute of Molecular Systems Biology ETH, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Liqun He
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Rudbeck Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Michael Vanlandewijck
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Rudbeck Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.,Department of Medicine-Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Catherine Maclachlan
- Bio Electron Microscopy Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, EPFL, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Suzel Davanture
- Department of Oncology, Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research Lausanne and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Nicola Zamboni
- Institute of Molecular Systems Biology ETH, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Graham W Knott
- Bio Electron Microscopy Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, EPFL, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Sanjiv A Luther
- Department of Immunobiology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Christer Betsholtz
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Rudbeck Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.,Department of Medicine-Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Mauro Delorenzi
- Department of Oncology, Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research Lausanne and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.,Bioinformatics Core Facility, SIB Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Cathrin Brisken
- Swiss Institute for Experimental Cancer Research (ISREC), School of Life Sciences, EPFL, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Tatiana V Petrova
- Department of Oncology, Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research Lausanne and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland. .,Swiss Institute for Experimental Cancer Research (ISREC), School of Life Sciences, EPFL, Lausanne, Switzerland.
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6
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Influence of carrier materials and coatings on retinal pigment epithelium cultivation and functions. Exp Eye Res 2022; 219:109063. [DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2022.109063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Revised: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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7
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Justo T, Smart N, Dhoot GK. Context Dependent Sulf1/Sulf2 Functional Divergence in Endothelial Cell Activity. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23073769. [PMID: 35409127 PMCID: PMC8999074 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Signalling activities are tightly regulated to control cellular responses. Heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs) at the cell membrane and extracellular matrix regulate ligand availability and interaction with a range of key receptors. SULF1 and SULF2 enzymes modify HSPG sulfation by removing 6-O sulfates to regulate cell signalling but are considered functionally identical. Our in vitro mRNA and protein analyses of two diverse human endothelial cell lines, however, highlight their markedly distinct regulatory roles of maintaining specific HSPG sulfation patterns through feedback regulation of HS 6-O transferase (HS6ST) activities and highly divergent roles in vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and Transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) cell signalling activities. Unlike Sulf2, Sulf1 over-expression in dermal microvascular HMec1 cells promotes TGFβ and VEGF cell signalling by simultaneously upregulating HS6ST1 activity. In contrast, Sulf1 over-expression in venous ea926 cells has the opposite effect as it attenuates both TGFβ and VEGF signalling while Sulf2 over-expression maintains the control phenotype. Exposure of these cells to VEGF-A, TGFβ1, and their inhibitors further highlights their endothelial cell type-specific responses and integral growth factor interactions to regulate cell signalling and selective feedback regulation of HSPG sulfation that additionally exploits alternative Sulf2 RNA-splicing to regulate net VEGF-A and TGFβ cell signalling activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiago Justo
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, London NW1 OTU, UK;
| | - Nicola Smart
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy & Genetics, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3PT, UK;
| | - Gurtej K. Dhoot
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, London NW1 OTU, UK;
- Correspondence:
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8
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Zhong Z, Li HY, Zhong H, Lin W, Lin S, Zhou T. All-trans retinoic acid regulating angiopoietins-1 and alleviating extracellular matrix accumulation in interstitial fibrosis rats. Ren Fail 2021; 43:658-663. [PMID: 33820492 PMCID: PMC8032328 DOI: 10.1080/0886022x.2021.1910046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2020] [Revised: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
All-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) is one of essentially active metabolite of vitamin A, and plays an important role in diverse physiological processes, such as cellular growth and function. Renal interstitial fibrosis (RIF) is a common pathological characteristic of chronic renal disease causing end-stage renal disease currently lacking effective treatment. Low level of Angiopoietins-1 (Angpt-1) is associated with extracellular matrix accumulation and fibrosis diseases. This study was performed to assess the association of ATRA with Angpt-1 in RIF disease. Rats were divided into three groups: group of sham (SHO group), group of unilateral ureteral obstruction group (UUO group), UUO mice administrated daily at the dose of ATRA (ATRA group). Masson-staining was used to detect the histologic lesion. Immunohistochemistry and Western-blot were applied to determine the targeted proteins. RIF score was significantly increased in UUO rats when compared with that of SHO group, and the fibrosis score was notably reduced in ATRA group. Transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), collagen IV (Col-IV) and fibronectin (FN) expressions in UUO group were significantly up-regulated, whereas Angpt-1 expression was significantly down-regulated compared with the SHO group. ATRA treatment reduced TGF-β1, Col-IV and FN expressions and improved Angpt-1 expression compared with the UUO group. The protein expression of Angpt-1 in kidney tissue of UUO group was negatively correlated with RIF index and protein expressions of Col-IV, FN and TGF-β1. In conclusion, low expression of Angpt-1 was associated with the RIF disease and ATRA treatment can increase the Angpt-1 and alleviate the RIF lesion in UUO rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiqing Zhong
- Department of Nephrology, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Hong-Yan Li
- Department of Nephrology, Huadu District People's Hospital of Guangzhou, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hongzhen Zhong
- Department of Nephrology, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Wenshan Lin
- Department of Nephrology, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Shujun Lin
- Department of Nephrology, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Tianbiao Zhou
- Department of Nephrology, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
- CONTACT Tianbiao Zhou Department of Nephrology, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Shantou University Medical College, No. 69 Dongxia Road, Shantou, 515041, China
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9
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Deng S, Gong X, Long Z, Bao B, Meng F, Feng J, Kuang H, Li H, Wang B, Wang J. Xuefu Zhuyu decoction improves asthma-induced asthenozoospermia based on network pharmacology and in vivo experiment. Andrologia 2021; 53:e14198. [PMID: 34375006 DOI: 10.1111/and.14198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Revised: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to verify that Xuefu Zhuyu decoction (XFZYD) can improve asthenozoospermia caused by asthma, and explore its potential mechanism. Ovalbumin solution is used to induce asthma rat models. Sperm concentration and motility are used to evaluate semen quality. Immunohistochemistry (IHC), Western blotting and real-time reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) are used to detect proteins and mRNA related to rat testis tissue. Haematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining was used to observe changes in testicular tissues. Through network pharmacology, eriodictyol, 18-β-glycyrrhetinic acid, naringenin, chrysin and Hispidulin were prominent active ingredients of XFZYD. We found that XFZYD regulates the expression levels of albumin (ALB), vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA), interleukin 6 (IL-6) protein and mRNA, thereby improving the histopathological morphology of the testis, increasing the concentration and motility of spermatozoa. We suggest that future research can increase the detection of hormones and oxidative stress and other related indicators, so as to conduct more in-depth exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheng Deng
- First Clinical Medical College, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.,Department of Andrology, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Xuefeng Gong
- First Clinical Medical College, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.,Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhongwen Long
- First Clinical Medical College, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.,Department of Andrology, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Binghao Bao
- First Clinical Medical College, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.,Department of Andrology, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Fanchao Meng
- First Clinical Medical College, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.,Department of Andrology, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Junlong Feng
- First Clinical Medical College, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.,Department of Andrology, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Hao Kuang
- First Clinical Medical College, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.,Department of Andrology, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Haisong Li
- Department of Andrology, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Bin Wang
- Department of Andrology, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Jisheng Wang
- First Clinical Medical College, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.,Department of Andrology, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.,Department of Cardiology, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
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10
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Yemanyi F, Raghunathan V. Lysophosphatidic Acid and IL-6 Trans-signaling Interact via YAP/TAZ and STAT3 Signaling Pathways in Human Trabecular Meshwork Cells. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2021; 61:29. [PMID: 33216119 PMCID: PMC7683860 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.61.13.29] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) and soluble interleukin-6 receptor (sIL6R) are elevated in primary open angle glaucoma (POAG). LPA and IL6 modulate in response to biomechanical stimuli and converge on similar fibrotic phenotypes. Thus, we determined whether LPA and IL6 trans-signaling (IL6/sIL6R) interact via Yes-associated protein (YAP)/Transcriptional coactivator with a PDZ-binding motif (TAZ) or Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) pathways in human trabecular meshwork (hTM) cells. Methods Confluent primary hTM cells were serum starved for 24 hours, and treated with vehicle, LPA (20 µM), IL6 (100 ng/mL)/sIL6R (200 ng/mL), or both (LPA + IL6/sIL6R) for 24 hours, with or without a YAP inhibitor (verteporfin; 2 µM) or STAT3 inhibitor (2 µM). Expression of key receptors and ligands, signaling mediators, actomyosin machinery, cell contractility, and extracellular matrix (ECM) targets of both signaling pathways was determined by immunocytochemistry, RT-qPCR, and Western blotting. Results LPA and IL6 trans-signaling coupling overexpressed/activated receptors and ligands, glycoprotein-130, IL6, and autotaxin; signaling mediators, YAP, TAZ, Pan-TEAD, and phosphorylated STAT3 (pSTAT3); actomyosin and contractile machinery components, myosin light chain 2 (MLC2), phosphorylated MLC2, rho-associated protein kinase 1, filamentous actin, and α-smooth muscle actin; and fibrotic ECM proteins, collagen I and IV, fibronectin, laminin, cysteine-rich angiogenic inducer 61, and connective tissue growth factor in hTM cells; mostly beyond LPA or IL6 trans-signaling alone. Verteporfin inhibited YAP, TAZ, and pSTAT3, with concomitant abrogation of aforementioned fibrotic targets; the STAT3 inhibitor was only partially effective. Conclusions These data suggest synergistic crosstalk between LPA and IL6 trans-signaling, mediated by YAP, TAZ, and pSTAT3. By completely inhibiting these mediators, verteporfin may be more efficacious in ameliorating LPA and/or IL6 trans-signaling–induced ocular hypertensive phenotypes in hTM cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix Yemanyi
- College of Optometry, University of Houston, Houston, Texas, United States
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11
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Usuelli M, Meyer T, Mezzenga R, Mitsi M. VEGF and VEGFR2 bind to similar pH-sensitive sites on fibronectin, exposed by heparin-mediated conformational changes. J Biol Chem 2021; 296:100584. [PMID: 33771558 PMCID: PMC8102423 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2021.100584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2020] [Revised: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Physical interactions between vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), a central player in blood endothelial cell biology, and fibronectin, a major fibrillar protein of the extracellular matrix, are important determinants of angiogenic activity in health and disease. Conditions signaling the need for new blood vessel growth, such as hypoxia and low extracellular pH, increase VEGF–fibronectin interactions. These interactions can be further fine-tuned through changes in the availability of the VEGF-binding sites on fibronectin, regulated by conformational changes induced by heparin and heparan sulfate chains within the extracellular matrix. These interactions may alter VEGF bioavailability, generate gradients, or alter the way VEGF is recognized by and activates its cell-surface receptors. Here, using equilibrium and kinetic studies, we discovered that fibronectin can also interact with the extracellular domain of the VEGF receptor 2 (VEGFR2). The VEGFR2-binding sites on fibronectin show great similarity to the VEGF-binding sites, as they were also exposed upon heparin-induced conformational changes in fibronectin, and the interaction was enhanced at acidic pH. Kinetic parameters and affinities for VEGF and VEGFR2 binding to fibronectin were determined by surface plasmon resonance measurements, revealing two populations of fibronectin-binding sites for each molecule. Our data also suggest that a VEGF/VEGFR2/fibronectin triple complex may be formed by VEGF or VEGFR2 first binding to fibronectin and subsequently recruiting the third binding partner. The formation of such a complex may lead to the activation of distinct angiogenic signaling pathways, offering new possibilities for clinical applications that target angiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mattia Usuelli
- Laboratory of Food and Soft Materials, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Timmy Meyer
- Laboratory of Food and Soft Materials, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Raffaele Mezzenga
- Laboratory of Food and Soft Materials, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Maria Mitsi
- Laboratory of Food and Soft Materials, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
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12
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Di Micco P, Di Micco G, Russo V, Poggiano MR, Salzano C, Bosevski M, Imparato M, Fontanella L, Fontanella A. Blood Targets of Adjuvant Drugs Against COVID19. J Blood Med 2020; 11:237-241. [PMID: 32694923 PMCID: PMC7338832 DOI: 10.2147/jbm.s256121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
While waiting for the vaccine and/or the best treatment for COVID19, several drugs have been identified as potential adjuvant drugs to counteract the viral action. Several drugs, in fact, have been suggested for their ancillary antiviral role. Viral proteases and peptidases, may interact with well-known drugs such as anticoagulants, antihypertensives, antiserotoninergics and immunomodulants. We here report a basic list of these drugs that include bioflavonoids, heparinoids, ACE inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers, antiserotoninergics, and monoclonal antibodies against cytokines that may interact with the viral cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierpaolo Di Micco
- Internal Medicine Department, Emergency Room Unit, Fatebenefratelli Hospital of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Vincenzo Russo
- University Cardiology Clinic, Faculty of Medicine, Skopje, Macedonia
| | - Maria Rita Poggiano
- Internal Medicine Department, Emergency Room Unit, Fatebenefratelli Hospital of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Ciro Salzano
- Internal Medicine Department, Emergency Room Unit, Fatebenefratelli Hospital of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Marijan Bosevski
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli" Monaldi Hospital, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Michele Imparato
- Internal Medicine Department, Emergency Room Unit, Fatebenefratelli Hospital of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Luca Fontanella
- Internal Medicine Department, Emergency Room Unit, Fatebenefratelli Hospital of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Andrea Fontanella
- Internal Medicine Department, Emergency Room Unit, Fatebenefratelli Hospital of Naples, Naples, Italy
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13
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Matsubara JA, Tian Y, Cui JZ, Zeglinski MR, Hiroyasu S, Turner CT, Granville DJ. Retinal Distribution and Extracellular Activity of Granzyme B: A Serine Protease That Degrades Retinal Pigment Epithelial Tight Junctions and Extracellular Matrix Proteins. Front Immunol 2020; 11:574. [PMID: 32318066 PMCID: PMC7155911 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.00574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2019] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Granzymes are a family of serine proteases first shown to be intracellular initiators of immune-mediated cell death in target pathogenic cells. In addition to its intracellular role, Granzyme B (GzmB) has important extracellular functions in immune regulation and extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation. Verified substrates of extracellular GzmB activity include tight junctional and ECM proteins. Interestingly, little is known about the activity of GzmB in the outer human retina, a tissue in which the degradation of the tight junctional contacts of retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells and within the external limiting membrane, as well as remodeling of the ECM in Bruch's membrane, cause the breakdown of the blood-retinal barrier and slowing of metabolite transport between neuroretina and choroidal blood supply. Such pathological changes in outer retina signal early events in the development of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a multifactorial, chronic inflammatory eye disease. This study is the first to focus on the distribution of GzmB in the outer retina of the healthy and diseased post-mortem human eye. Our results revealed that GzmB is present in RPE and choroidal mast cells. More immunoreactive cells are present in older (>65 years) compared to younger (<55 years) donor eyes, and choroidal immunoreactive cells are more numerous in eyes with choroidal neovascularization (CNV), while RPE immunoreactive cells are more numerous in eyes with soft drusen, an early AMD event. In vitro studies demonstrated that RPE-derived tight junctional and ECM proteins are cleaved by exogenous GzmB stimulation. These results suggest that the increased presence of GzmB immunoreactive cells in outer retina of older (healthy) eyes as well as in diseased eyes with CNV (from AMD) and eyes with soft drusen exacerbate ECM remodeling in the Bruch's membrane and degradation of the blood-retinal barrier. Currently there are no treatments that prevent remodeling of the Bruch's membrane and/or the loss of function of the outer blood-retinal barrier, known to promote early AMD changes, such as drusen deposition, RPE dysfunction and pro-inflammation. Specific inhibitors of GzmB, already in preclinical studies for non-ocular diseases, may provide new strategies to stop these early events associated with the development of AMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanne A Matsubara
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Yuan Tian
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Jing Z Cui
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Matthew R Zeglinski
- International Collaboration on Repair Discoveries (ICORD), University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Sho Hiroyasu
- International Collaboration on Repair Discoveries (ICORD), University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Christopher T Turner
- International Collaboration on Repair Discoveries (ICORD), University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - David J Granville
- International Collaboration on Repair Discoveries (ICORD), University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, BC, Canada
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14
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Chronic Hypoxia-Induced Microvessel Proliferation and Basal Membrane Degradation in the Bone Marrow of Rats Regulated through the IL-6/JAK2/STAT3/MMP-9 Pathway. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 2020:9204708. [PMID: 32047820 PMCID: PMC7003287 DOI: 10.1155/2020/9204708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2019] [Revised: 11/08/2019] [Accepted: 11/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Chronic hypoxia (CH) is characterized by long-term hypoxia that is associated with microvessel proliferation and basal membrane (BM) degradation in tissues. The IL-6/JAK2/STAT3/MMP-9 pathway has been described in a variety of human cancers and plays an essential role in microvessel proliferation and BM degradation. Therefore, this study investigated the role of the IL-6/JAK2/STAT3/MMP-9 pathway in hypoxia-mediated microvessel proliferation and BM degradation in the rat bone marrow. Eighty pathogen-free Sprague Dawley male rats were randomly divided into four groups (20 per group)—control group, CH group (exposed to hypoxia in a hypobaric chamber at a simulated altitude of 5000 m for 28 d), CH + STAT3 inhibitor group (7.5 mg/kg/d), and CH + DMSO group. Microvessel density (MVD) and BM degradation in the bone marrow were determined by immunofluorescence staining and transmission electron microscopy. Serum IL-6 levels were assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and the levels of P-JAK2, P-STAT3, and MMP-9 were assessed by western blot analysis and real-time reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR). Hypoxia increased serum IL-6 levels, which in turn increased JAK2 and STAT3 phosphorylation, which subsequently upregulated MMP-9. Overexpression of MMP-9 significantly promoted the elevation of MVD and BM degradation. Inhibition of STAT3 using an inhibitor, SH-4-54, significantly downregulated MMP-9 expression and decreased MVD and BM degradation. Surprisingly, STAT3 inhibition also decreased serum IL-6 levels and JAK2 phosphorylation. Our results suggest that the IL-6/JAK2/STAT3/MMP-9 pathway might be related to CH-induced microvessel proliferation and BM degradation in the bone marrow.
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