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Tang L, Chen B, Wang B, Xu J, Yan H, Shan Y, Zhao X. Mediation of FOXA2/IL-6/IL-6R/STAT3 signaling pathway mediates benzo[a]pyrene-induced airway epithelial mesenchymal transformation in asthma. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 357:124384. [PMID: 38901818 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.124384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2024] [Revised: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 06/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
Benzo [a]pyrene (BaP), a toxic pollutant, increases the incidence and severity of asthma. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the effects of BaP in asthma remain unclear. In terms of research methods, we used BaP to intervene in the animal model of asthma and the human bronchial epithelial (16HBE) cells, and the involved mechanisms were found from the injury, inflammation, and airway epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) in asthma. We also constructed small interfering RNAs and overexpression plasmids to knockdown/overexpress IL-6R and FOXA2 in 16HBE cells and a serotype 9 adeno-associated viral vector for lung tissue overexpression of FOXA2 in mice to determine the mechanism of action of BaP-exacerbated asthma airway EMT. We observed that BaP aggravated inflammatory cell infiltration into the lungs, reduced the Penh value, increased collagen fibres in the lung tissue, and increased serum IgE levels in asthmatic mice. After BaP intervention, the expression of FOXA2 in the lung tissue of asthmatic mice decreased, the production and secretion of IL-6 were stimulated, and STAT3 phosphorylation and nuclear translocation increased, leading to changes in EMT markers. However, EMT decreased after increasing FOXA2 expression and decreasing that of IL-6R and was further enhanced after low FOXA2 expression. Our results revealed that BaP exacerbated airway epithelial cell injury and interfered with FOXA2, activating the IL-6/IL-6R/STAT3 signaling pathway to promote airway EMT in asthma. These findings provide toxicological evidence for the mechanism underlying the contribution of BaP to the increased incidence of asthma and its exacerbations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingling Tang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210023, China
| | - Bailei Chen
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Pediatric Respiratory Disease, Institute of Pediatrics, Medical Metabolomics Center, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210023, China
| | - Bohan Wang
- Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210004, China
| | - Jing Xu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Pediatric Respiratory Disease, Institute of Pediatrics, Medical Metabolomics Center, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210023, China
| | - Hua Yan
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Pediatric Respiratory Disease, Institute of Pediatrics, Medical Metabolomics Center, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210023, China
| | - Yiwen Shan
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Pediatric Respiratory Disease, Institute of Pediatrics, Medical Metabolomics Center, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210023, China
| | - Xia Zhao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Pediatric Respiratory Disease, Institute of Pediatrics, Medical Metabolomics Center, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210023, China; Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210004, China.
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Qu G, Liu Y, Ouyang J, Xiao L, Liu X. Effects of MAL gene knockout on lung tissue morphology and on E-cad and α-SMA expression in asthma mouse models. J Asthma 2024:1-10. [PMID: 38875021 DOI: 10.1080/02770903.2024.2355982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate the effects of myelin- and lymphocyte-associated protein (MAL) gene knockout on the morphological structure of lung tissue and the expression of E-cadherin (E-cad) and alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) in an asthmatic mouse model. METHODS Twenty-four specific pathogen-free (SPF) C57BL/6J mice were divided into four groups: the wild-type normal (WT/SAL), wild-type asthmatic (WT/OVA), gene knockout normal (MAL-/-/SAL), and gene knockout asthmatic (MAL-/-/OVA) groups. The establishment of the asthma mouse models was confirmed by evaluating behavioral symptoms and histopathological H&E and Masson staining. Western blotting and RT-qPCR were used to measure E-cad and α-SMA expression levels in lung tissues. RESULTS H&E staining of mouse lung tissues from WT/OVA, MAL-/-/SAL, and MAL-/-/OVA groups revealed a thickened bronchial wall, irregular lumen edge, locally fallen mucosal epithelium, and inflammatory cell infiltration compared with those of the WT/SAL group. In the WT and MAL-/- groups, the proportion of Masson-stained tissues in the OVA group was greater than that in the SAL group (p < 0.05). Compared with those in the WT/SAL group, the expression levels of α-SMA mRNA and protein were increased, while those of E-cad were decreased in the WT/OVA group (p < 0.01). Similarly, compared with those in the MAL-/-/SAL group, the expression levels of E-cad mRNA and protein were increased, while those of α-SMA were decreased in the MAL-/-/OVA group (p < 0.01). All these differences were statistically significant (p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS The MAL gene contributes to EMT inhibition and the stability of the airway barrier under normal physiological conditions by regulating E-cad and α-SMA expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaojie Qu
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
- The Third Affiliated Hospital, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Yulu Liu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Xiangdong Hospital Affiliated with Hunan Normal University, Zhuzhou, Hunan, China
| | - Jieyuan Ouyang
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Linlin Xiao
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Xin Liu
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
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Yuan J, Wang M, Wang C, Zhang L. Epithelial cell dysfunction in chronic rhinosinusitis: the epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2023; 19:959-968. [PMID: 37386882 DOI: 10.1080/1744666x.2023.2232113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a type of epithelial cell dysfunction, which is widely present in the nasal mucosa of patients with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS), especially CRS with nasal polyps, and contributes to pathogenesis of the disease. EMT is mediated via complex mechanisms associated with multiple signaling pathways. AREAS COVERED We have summarized the underlying mechanisms and signaling pathways promoting EMT in CRS. Strategies or drugs/agents targeting the genes and pathways related to the regulation of EMT are also discussed for their potential use in the treatment of CRS and asthma. A literature search of studies published in English from 2000 to 2023 was conducted using the PubMed database, employing CRS, EMT, signaling, mechanisms, targeting agents/drugs, as individual or combinations of search terms. EXPERT OPINION EMT in nasal epithelium not only leads to epithelial cell dysfunction but also plays an important role in nasal tissue remodeling in CRS. A comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms underlying EMT and the development of drugs/agents targeting these mechanisms may provide new treatment strategies for CRS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Yuan
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Beijing TongRen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Nasal Diseases, Beijing Laboratory of Allergic Diseases, Beijing Institute of Otolaryngology, Beijing, China
| | - Ming Wang
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Beijing TongRen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Nasal Diseases, Beijing Laboratory of Allergic Diseases, Beijing Institute of Otolaryngology, Beijing, China
| | - Chengshuo Wang
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Beijing TongRen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Nasal Diseases, Beijing Laboratory of Allergic Diseases, Beijing Institute of Otolaryngology, Beijing, China
| | - Luo Zhang
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Beijing TongRen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Nasal Diseases, Beijing Laboratory of Allergic Diseases, Beijing Institute of Otolaryngology, Beijing, China
- Department of Allergy, Beijing TongRen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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Lin H, Yi J. CTRP3 regulates NF-κB and TGFβ1/Smad3 pathways to alleviate airway inflammation and remodeling in asthmatic mice induced by OVA. Allergol Immunopathol (Madr) 2023; 51:31-39. [PMID: 37422777 DOI: 10.15586/aei.v51i4.867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Asthma is a common illness with chronic airway inflammation. C1q/tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-related protein 3 (CTRP3) plays a vital role ininflammatory response, but its effect on asthma is imprecise. Herein, we analyzed the functions of CTRP3 in asthma. METHODS The BALB/c mice were randomized into four groups: control, ovalbumin (OVA), OVA+vector, and OVA+CTRP3. The asthmatic mice model was established by OVA stimulation. Overexpression of CTRP3 was implemented by the transfection of corresponding adeno-associated virus 6 (AAV6). The contents of CTRP3, E-cadherin, N-cadherin, smooth muscle alpha-actin (α-SMA), phosphorylated (p)-p65/p65, transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGFβ1), and p-Smad3/Smad3 were determined by Western blot analysis. The quantity of total cells, eosinophils, neutrophils, and lymphocytes in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) was assessed by using a hemocytometer. The contents of tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-1β in BALF were examined by enzyme-linked immunesorbent serologic assay. The lung function indicators and airway resistance (AWR) were measured. The bronchial and alveolar structures were evaluated by hematoxylin and eosin staining and sirius red staining. RESULTS The CTRP3 was downregulated in mice of OVA groups; however, AAV6-CTRP3 treatment markedly upregulated the expression of CTRP3. Upregulation of CTRP3 diminished asthmatic airway inflammation by decreasing the number of inflammatory cells and the contents of proinflammatory factors. CTRP3 markedly lessened AWR and improved lung function in OVA-stimulated mice. Histological analysis found that CTRP3 alleviated OVA-induced airway remodeling in mice. Moreover, CTRP3 modulated NF-κB and TGFβ1/Smad3 pathways in OVA-stimulated mice. CONCLUSION CTRP3 alleviated airway inflammation and remodeling in OVA-induced asthmatic mice via regulating NF-κB and TGFβ1/Smad3 pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hai Lin
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
| | - Jinrong Yi
- Department of Anesthesiology, Ganzhou Women and Children's Health Care Hospital, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China;
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Cao TBT, Quoc QL, Yang EM, Moon JY, Shin YS, Ryu MS, Choi Y, Park HS. Tissue Inhibitor of Metalloproteinase-1 Enhances Eosinophilic Airway Inflammation in Severe Asthma. ALLERGY, ASTHMA & IMMUNOLOGY RESEARCH 2023; 15:451-472. [PMID: 37075799 PMCID: PMC10359643 DOI: 10.4168/aair.2023.15.4.451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Revised: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Severe asthma (SA) is characterized by persistent airway inflammation and remodeling, followed by lung function decline. The present study aimed to evaluate the role of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-1) in the pathogenesis of SA. METHODS We enrolled 250 adult asthmatics (54 with SA and 196 with non-SA) and 140 healthy controls (HCs). Serum TIMP-1 levels were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The release of TIMP-1 from airway epithelial cells (AECs) in response to stimuli as well as the effects of TIMP-1 on the activations of eosinophils and macrophages were evaluated in vitro and in vivo. RESULTS Significantly higher levels of serum TIMP-1 were noted in asthmatics than in HCs, in the SA group than in non-SA group, and in the type 2 SA group than in non-type 2 SA group (P < 0.01 for all). A negative correlation between serum TIMP-1 and FEV1% values (r = -0.400, P = 0.003) was noted in the SA group. In vitro study demonstrated that TIMP-1 was released from AECs in response to poly I:C, IL-13, eosinophil extracellular traps (EETs) and in coculture with eosinophils. TIMP-1-stimulated mice showed eosinophilic airway inflammation, which was not completely suppressed by steroid treatment. In vitro and in vivo functional studies showed that TIMP-1 directly activated eosinophils and macrophages, and induced the release of EETs and macrophages to polarize toward M2 subset, which was suppressed by anti-TIMP-1 antibody. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that TIMP-1 enhances eosinophilic airway inflammation and that serum TIMP-1 may be a potential biomarker and/or therapeutic target for type 2 SA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thi Bich Tra Cao
- Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Korea
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Korea
| | - Quang Luu Quoc
- Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Korea
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Korea
| | - Eun-Mi Yang
- Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Korea
| | - Ji-Young Moon
- Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Korea
| | - Yoo Seob Shin
- Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Korea
| | - Min Sook Ryu
- Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Korea
| | - Youngwoo Choi
- Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Korea
| | - Hae-Sim Park
- Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Korea
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Korea.
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Tota M, Łacwik J, Laska J, Sędek Ł, Gomułka K. The Role of Eosinophil-Derived Neurotoxin and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor in the Pathogenesis of Eosinophilic Asthma. Cells 2023; 12:cells12091326. [PMID: 37174726 PMCID: PMC10177218 DOI: 10.3390/cells12091326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Revised: 04/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Asthma is a chronic complex pulmonary disease characterized by airway inflammation, remodeling, and hyperresponsiveness. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and eosinophil-derived neurotoxin (EDN) are two significant mediators involved in the pathophysiology of asthma. In asthma, VEGF and EDN levels are elevated and correlate with disease severity and airway hyperresponsiveness. Diversity in VEGF polymorphisms results in the variability of responses to glucocorticosteroids and leukotriene antagonist treatment. Targeting VEGF and eosinophils is a promising therapeutic approach for asthma. We identified lichochalcone A, bevacizumab, azithromycin (AZT), vitamin D, diosmetin, epigallocatechin gallate, IGFBP-3, Neovastat (AE-941), endostatin, PEDF, and melatonin as putative add-on drugs in asthma with anti-VEGF properties. Further studies and clinical trials are needed to evaluate the efficacy of those drugs. AZT reduces the exacerbation rate and may be considered in adults with persistent symptomatic asthma. However, the long-term effects of AZT on community microbial resistance require further investigation. Vitamin D supplementation may enhance corticosteroid responsiveness. Herein, anti-eosinophil drugs are reviewed. Among them are, e.g., anti-IL-5 (mepolizumab, reslizumab, and benralizumab), anti-IL-13 (lebrikizumab and tralokinumab), anti-IL-4 and anti-IL-13 (dupilumab), and anti-IgE (omalizumab) drugs. EDN over peripheral blood eosinophil count is recommended to monitor the asthma control status and to assess the efficacy of anti-IL-5 therapy in asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maciej Tota
- Student Scientific Group of Adult Allergology, Clinical Department of Internal Medicine, Pneumology and Allergology, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-369 Wrocław, Poland
| | - Julia Łacwik
- Student Scientific Group of Microbiology and Immunology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia in Katowice, 40-055 Katowice, Poland
| | - Julia Laska
- Student Scientific Group of Microbiology and Immunology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia in Katowice, 40-055 Katowice, Poland
| | - Łukasz Sędek
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia in Katowice, 40-055 Katowice, Poland
| | - Krzysztof Gomułka
- Clinical Department of Internal Medicine, Pneumology and Allergology, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-369 Wrocław, Poland
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Godbole NM, Chowdhury AA, Chataut N, Awasthi S. Tight Junctions, the Epithelial Barrier, and Toll-like Receptor-4 During Lung Injury. Inflammation 2022; 45:2142-2162. [PMID: 35779195 DOI: 10.1007/s10753-022-01708-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Revised: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Lung epithelium is constantly exposed to the environment and is critically important for the orchestration of initial responses to infectious organisms, toxins, and allergic stimuli, and maintenance of normal gaseous exchange and pulmonary function. The integrity of lung epithelium, fluid balance, and transport of molecules is dictated by the tight junctions (TJs). The TJs are formed between adjacent cells. We have focused on the topic of the TJ structure and function in lung epithelial cells. This review includes a summary of the last twenty years of literature reports published on the disrupted TJs and epithelial barrier in various lung conditions and expression and regulation of specific TJ proteins against pathogenic stimuli. We discuss the molecular signaling and crosstalk among signaling pathways that control the TJ structure and function. The Toll-like receptor-4 (TLR4) recognizes the pathogen- and damage-associated molecular patterns released during lung injury and inflammation and coordinates cellular responses. The molecular aspects of TLR4 signaling in the context of TJs or the epithelial barrier are not fully known. We describe the current knowledge and possible networking of the TLR4-signaling with cellular and molecular mechanisms of TJs, lung epithelial barrier function, and resistance to treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nachiket M Godbole
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, 1110 N. Stonewall Avenue, Oklahoma City, OK, 73117, USA
| | - Asif Alam Chowdhury
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, 1110 N. Stonewall Avenue, Oklahoma City, OK, 73117, USA
| | - Neha Chataut
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, 1110 N. Stonewall Avenue, Oklahoma City, OK, 73117, USA
| | - Shanjana Awasthi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, 1110 N. Stonewall Avenue, Oklahoma City, OK, 73117, USA.
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Peng Q, Shan D, Cui K, Li K, Zhu B, Wu H, Wang B, Wong S, Norton V, Dong Y, Lu YW, Zhou C, Chen H. The Role of Endothelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition in Cardiovascular Disease. Cells 2022; 11:1834. [PMID: 35681530 PMCID: PMC9180466 DOI: 10.3390/cells11111834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2022] [Revised: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndoMT) is the process of endothelial cells progressively losing endothelial-specific markers and gaining mesenchymal phenotypes. In the normal physiological condition, EndoMT plays a fundamental role in forming the cardiac valves of the developing heart. However, EndoMT contributes to the development of various cardiovascular diseases (CVD), such as atherosclerosis, valve diseases, fibrosis, and pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Therefore, a deeper understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying EndoMT in CVD should provide urgently needed insights into reversing this condition. This review summarizes a 30-year span of relevant literature, delineating the EndoMT process in particular, key signaling pathways, and the underlying regulatory networks involved in CVD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qianman Peng
- Vascular Biology Program, Department of Surgery, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (Q.P.); (D.S.); (K.C.); (K.L.); (B.Z.); (H.W.); (B.W.); (S.W.); (V.N.); (Y.D.); (Y.W.L.)
| | - Dan Shan
- Vascular Biology Program, Department of Surgery, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (Q.P.); (D.S.); (K.C.); (K.L.); (B.Z.); (H.W.); (B.W.); (S.W.); (V.N.); (Y.D.); (Y.W.L.)
| | - Kui Cui
- Vascular Biology Program, Department of Surgery, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (Q.P.); (D.S.); (K.C.); (K.L.); (B.Z.); (H.W.); (B.W.); (S.W.); (V.N.); (Y.D.); (Y.W.L.)
| | - Kathryn Li
- Vascular Biology Program, Department of Surgery, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (Q.P.); (D.S.); (K.C.); (K.L.); (B.Z.); (H.W.); (B.W.); (S.W.); (V.N.); (Y.D.); (Y.W.L.)
| | - Bo Zhu
- Vascular Biology Program, Department of Surgery, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (Q.P.); (D.S.); (K.C.); (K.L.); (B.Z.); (H.W.); (B.W.); (S.W.); (V.N.); (Y.D.); (Y.W.L.)
| | - Hao Wu
- Vascular Biology Program, Department of Surgery, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (Q.P.); (D.S.); (K.C.); (K.L.); (B.Z.); (H.W.); (B.W.); (S.W.); (V.N.); (Y.D.); (Y.W.L.)
| | - Beibei Wang
- Vascular Biology Program, Department of Surgery, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (Q.P.); (D.S.); (K.C.); (K.L.); (B.Z.); (H.W.); (B.W.); (S.W.); (V.N.); (Y.D.); (Y.W.L.)
| | - Scott Wong
- Vascular Biology Program, Department of Surgery, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (Q.P.); (D.S.); (K.C.); (K.L.); (B.Z.); (H.W.); (B.W.); (S.W.); (V.N.); (Y.D.); (Y.W.L.)
| | - Vikram Norton
- Vascular Biology Program, Department of Surgery, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (Q.P.); (D.S.); (K.C.); (K.L.); (B.Z.); (H.W.); (B.W.); (S.W.); (V.N.); (Y.D.); (Y.W.L.)
| | - Yunzhou Dong
- Vascular Biology Program, Department of Surgery, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (Q.P.); (D.S.); (K.C.); (K.L.); (B.Z.); (H.W.); (B.W.); (S.W.); (V.N.); (Y.D.); (Y.W.L.)
| | - Yao Wei Lu
- Vascular Biology Program, Department of Surgery, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (Q.P.); (D.S.); (K.C.); (K.L.); (B.Z.); (H.W.); (B.W.); (S.W.); (V.N.); (Y.D.); (Y.W.L.)
| | - Changcheng Zhou
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA;
| | - Hong Chen
- Vascular Biology Program, Department of Surgery, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (Q.P.); (D.S.); (K.C.); (K.L.); (B.Z.); (H.W.); (B.W.); (S.W.); (V.N.); (Y.D.); (Y.W.L.)
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9
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Angiogenesis, Lymphangiogenesis, and Inflammation in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): Few Certainties and Many Outstanding Questions. Cells 2022; 11:cells11101720. [PMID: 35626756 PMCID: PMC9139415 DOI: 10.3390/cells11101720] [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: 05/03/2022] [Revised: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is characterized by chronic inflammation, predominantly affecting the lung parenchyma and peripheral airways, that results in progressive and irreversible airflow obstruction. COPD development is promoted by persistent pulmonary inflammation in response to several stimuli (e.g., cigarette smoke, bacterial and viral infections, air pollution, etc.). Angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels, and lymphangiogenesis, the formation of new lymphatic vessels, are features of airway inflammation in COPD. There is compelling evidence that effector cells of inflammation (lung-resident macrophages and mast cells and infiltrating neutrophils, eosinophils, basophils, lymphocytes, etc.) are major sources of a vast array of angiogenic (e.g., vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A), angiopoietins) and/or lymphangiogenic factors (VEGF-C, -D). Further, structural cells, including bronchial and alveolar epithelial cells, endothelial cells, fibroblasts/myofibroblasts, and airway smooth muscle cells, can contribute to inflammation and angiogenesis in COPD. Although there is evidence that alterations of angiogenesis and, to a lesser extent, lymphangiogenesis, are associated with COPD, there are still many unanswered questions.
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Noureddine N, Chalubinski M, Wawrzyniak P. The Role of Defective Epithelial Barriers in Allergic Lung Disease and Asthma Development. J Asthma Allergy 2022; 15:487-504. [PMID: 35463205 PMCID: PMC9030405 DOI: 10.2147/jaa.s324080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The respiratory epithelium constitutes the physical barrier between the human body and the environment, thus providing functional and immunological protection. It is often exposed to allergens, microbial substances, pathogens, pollutants, and environmental toxins, which lead to dysregulation of the epithelial barrier and result in the chronic inflammation seen in allergic diseases and asthma. This epithelial barrier dysfunction results from the disturbed tight junction formation, which are multi-protein subunits that promote cell–cell adhesion and barrier integrity. The increasing interest and evidence of the role of impaired epithelial barrier function in allergy and asthma highlight the need for innovative approaches that can provide new knowledge in this area. Here, we review and discuss the current role and mechanism of epithelial barrier dysfunction in developing allergic diseases and the effect of current allergy therapies on epithelial barrier restoration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nazek Noureddine
- Division of Clinical Chemistry and Biochemistry, University Children’s Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Children’s Research Center, University Children’s Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Center for Integrative Human Physiology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Maciej Chalubinski
- Department of Immunology and Allergy, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
| | - Paulina Wawrzyniak
- Division of Clinical Chemistry and Biochemistry, University Children’s Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Children’s Research Center, University Children’s Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Correspondence: Paulina Wawrzyniak, Division of Clinical Chemistry and Biochemistry, University Children’s Hospital Zurich, Zurich, 8032, Switzerland, Tel +41 44 266 75 42, Email ;
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Gargani S, Lourou N, Arapatzi C, Tzanos D, Saridaki M, Dushku E, Chatzimike M, Sidiropoulos ND, Andreadou M, Ntafis V, Hatzis P, Kostourou V, Kontoyiannis DL. Inactivation of AUF1 in Myeloid Cells Protects From Allergic Airway and Tumor Infiltration and Impairs the Adenosine-Induced Polarization of Pro-Angiogenic Macrophages. Front Immunol 2022; 13:752215. [PMID: 35222366 PMCID: PMC8873154 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.752215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The four isoforms of the RNA-binding protein hnRNPD/AUF1 have been proposed to limit the use of inflammatory mRNAs in innate immune cells. Mice engineered to lack AUF1s in all tissues are sensitive to acute inflammatory assaults; however, they also manifest complex degenerations obscuring assessment of AUF1s’ roles in innate immune cells. Here, we restricted a debilitating AUF1 mutation to the mouse myeloid lineage and performed disease-oriented phenotypic analyses to assess the requirement of AUF1s in variable contexts of innate immune reactivity. Contrary to the whole-body mutants, the myeloid mutants of AUF1s did not show differences in their susceptibility to cytokine storms occurring during endotoxemia; neither in type-I cell-mediated reactions driving intestinal inflammation by chemical irritants. Instead, they were resistant to allergic airway inflammation and displayed reductions in inflammatory infiltrates and an altered T-helper balance. The ex-vivo analysis of macrophages revealed that the loss of AUF1s had a minimal effect on their proinflammatory gene expression. Moreover, AUF1s were dispensable for the classical polarization of cultured macrophages by LPS & IFNγ correlating with the unchanged response of mutant mice to systemic and intestinal inflammation. Notably, AUF1s were also dispensable for the alternative polarization of macrophages by IL4, TGFβ and IL10, known to be engaged in allergic reactions. In contrast, they were required to switch proinflammatory macrophages towards a pro-angiogenic phenotype induced by adenosine receptor signals. Congruent to this, the myeloid mutants of AUF1 displayed lower levels of vascular remodeling factors in exudates from allergen exposed lungs; were unable to support the growth and inflammatory infiltration of transplanted melanoma tumors; and failed to vascularize inert grafts unless supplemented with angiogenic factors. Mechanistically, adenosine receptor signals enhanced the association of AUF1s with the Vegfa, Il12b, and Tnf mRNAs to differentially regulate and facilitate the pro-angiogenic switch. Our data collectively demonstrates that AUF1s do not act as general anti-inflammatory factors in innate immune cells but have more specialized roles in regulons allowing specific innate immune cell transitions to support tissue infiltration and remodeling processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Gargani
- Biomedical Sciences Research Centre “Alexander Fleming”, Institute of Fundamental Biomedical Research, Vari, Greece
- Department of Genetics, Development and Molecular Biology, School of Biology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Niki Lourou
- Biomedical Sciences Research Centre “Alexander Fleming”, Institute of Fundamental Biomedical Research, Vari, Greece
- Department of Genetics, Development and Molecular Biology, School of Biology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Christina Arapatzi
- Biomedical Sciences Research Centre “Alexander Fleming”, Institute of Fundamental Biomedical Research, Vari, Greece
| | - Dimitris Tzanos
- Biomedical Sciences Research Centre “Alexander Fleming”, Institute of Fundamental Biomedical Research, Vari, Greece
| | - Marania Saridaki
- Biomedical Sciences Research Centre “Alexander Fleming”, Institute of Fundamental Biomedical Research, Vari, Greece
| | - Esmeralda Dushku
- Department of Genetics, Development and Molecular Biology, School of Biology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Margarita Chatzimike
- Biomedical Sciences Research Centre “Alexander Fleming”, Institute of Fundamental Biomedical Research, Vari, Greece
| | - Nikolaos D. Sidiropoulos
- Department of Genetics, Development and Molecular Biology, School of Biology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Margarita Andreadou
- Biomedical Sciences Research Centre “Alexander Fleming”, Institute of Fundamental Biomedical Research, Vari, Greece
| | - Vasileios Ntafis
- Biomedical Sciences Research Centre “Alexander Fleming”, Institute of Fundamental Biomedical Research, Vari, Greece
| | - Pantelis Hatzis
- Biomedical Sciences Research Centre “Alexander Fleming”, Institute of Fundamental Biomedical Research, Vari, Greece
| | - Vassiliki Kostourou
- Biomedical Sciences Research Centre “Alexander Fleming”, Institute of Fundamental Biomedical Research, Vari, Greece
| | - Dimitris L. Kontoyiannis
- Biomedical Sciences Research Centre “Alexander Fleming”, Institute of Fundamental Biomedical Research, Vari, Greece
- Department of Genetics, Development and Molecular Biology, School of Biology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
- *Correspondence: Dimitris L. Kontoyiannis, ;
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Sunil AA, Skaria T. Novel regulators of airway epithelial barrier function during inflammation: potential targets for drug repurposing. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2022; 26:119-132. [PMID: 35085478 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2022.2035720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Endogenous inflammatory signaling molecules resulting from deregulated immune responses, can impair airway epithelial barrier function and predispose individuals with airway inflammatory diseases to exacerbations and lung infections. Targeting the specific endogenous factors disrupting the airway barrier therefore has the potential to prevent disease exacerbations without affecting the protective immune responses. AREAS COVERED Here, we review the endogenous factors and specific mechanisms disrupting airway epithelial barrier during inflammation and reflect on whether these factors can be specifically targeted by repurposed existing drugs. Literature search was conducted using PubMed, drug database of US FDA and European Medicines Agency until and including September 2021. EXPERT OPINION IL-4 and IL-13 signaling are the major pathways disrupting the airway epithelial barrier during airway inflammation. However, blocking IL-4/IL-13 signaling may adversely affect protective immune responses and increase susceptibility of host to infections. An alternate approach to modulate airway epithelial barrier function involves targeting specific downstream component of IL-4/IL-13 signaling or different inflammatory mediators responsible for regulation of airway epithelial barrier. Airway epithelium-targeted therapy using inhibitors of HDAC, HSP90, MIF, mTOR, IL-17A and VEGF may be a potential strategy to prevent airway epithelial barrier dysfunction in airway inflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahsan Anjoom Sunil
- School of Biotechnology, National Institute of Technology Calicut, Calicut, Kerala, India
| | - Tom Skaria
- School of Biotechnology, National Institute of Technology Calicut, Calicut, Kerala, India
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Joseph C, Tatler AL. Pathobiology of Airway Remodeling in Asthma: The Emerging Role of Integrins. J Asthma Allergy 2022; 15:595-610. [PMID: 35592385 PMCID: PMC9112045 DOI: 10.2147/jaa.s267222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Airway remodeling is a complex clinical feature of asthma that involves long-term disruption and modification of airway architecture, which contributes significantly to airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) and lung function decline. It is characterized by thickening of the airway smooth muscle layer, deposition of a matrix below the airway epithelium, resulting in subepithelial fibrosis, changes within the airway epithelium, leading to disruption of the barrier, and excessive mucous production and angiogenesis within the airway wall. Airway remodeling contributes to stiffer and less compliant airways in asthma and leads to persistent, irreversible airflow obstruction. Current asthma treatments aim to reduce airway inflammation and exacerbations but none are targeted towards airway remodeling. Inhibiting the development of airway remodeling or reversing established remodeling has the potential to dramatically improve symptoms and disease burden in asthmatic patients. Integrins are a family of transmembrane heterodimeric proteins that serve as the primary receptors for extracellular matrix (ECM) components, mediating cell-cell and cell-ECM interactions to initiate intracellular signaling cascades. Cells present within the lungs, including structural and inflammatory cells, express a wide and varying range of integrin heterodimer combinations and permutations. Integrins are emerging as an important regulator of inflammation, repair, remodeling, and fibrosis in the lung, particularly in chronic lung diseases such as asthma. Here, we provide a comprehensive summary of the current state of knowledge on integrins in the asthmatic airway and how these integrins promote the remodeling process, and emphasize their potential involvement in airway disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chitra Joseph
- Centre for Respiratory Research, National Institute for Health Research Biomedical Research Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Amanda L Tatler
- Centre for Respiratory Research, National Institute for Health Research Biomedical Research Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
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