The molecular mechanism of thrombospondin family members in cardiovascular diseases

Cardiovascular diseases have been identified as vital factors in global morbidity and mortality in recent years. The available evidence suggests that various cytokines and pathological proteins participate in these complicated and changeable diseases. The thrombospondin (TSP) family is a series of conserved, multidomain calcium-binding glycoproteins that cause cell-matrix and cell-cell effects via interactions with other extracellular matrix components and cell surface receptors. The TSP family has five members that can be divided into two groups (Group A and Group B) based on their different structures. TSP-1, TSP-2, and TSP-4 are the most studied proteins. Among recent studies and findings, we investigated the functions of several family members, especially TSP-5. We review the basic concepts of TSPs and summarize the relevant molecular mechanisms and cell interactions in the cardiovascular system. Targeting TSPs in CVD and other diseases has a remarkable therapeutic benefit.

Granzyme B Contributes to Choroidal Neovascularization and Age-Related Macular Degeneration Through Proteolysis of Thrombospondin-1

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of irreversible central vision loss in the elderly. The pathology of neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD), also known as wet AMD, is associated with an abnormal blood vessel growth in the eye and involves an imbalance of proangiogenic and antiangiogenic factors. Thrombospondin (TSP)-1 and TSP-2 are endogenous matricellular proteins that inhibit angiogenesis. TSP-1 is significantly diminished in eyes with AMD, although the mechanisms involved in its reduction are unknown. Granzyme B (GzmB) is a serine protease with an increased extracellular activity in the outer retina and choroid of human eyes with nAMD-related choroidal neovascularization (CNV). This study investigated whether TSP-1 and TSP-2 are GzmB substrates using in silico and cell-free cleavage assays and explored the relationship between GzmB and TSP-1 in human eyes with nAMD-related CNV and the effect of GzmB on TSP-1 in retinal pigment epithelial culture and an explant choroid sprouting assay (CSA). In this study, TSP-1 and TSP-2 were identified as GzmB substrates. Cell-free cleavage assays substantiated the GzmB proteolysis of TSP-1 and TSP-2 by showing dose-dependent and time-dependent cleavage products. TSP-1 and TSP-2 proteolysis were hindered by the inhibition of GzmB. In the retinal pigment epithelium and choroid of human eyes with CNV, we observed a significant inverse correlation between TSP-1 and GzmB, as indicated by lower TSP-1 and higher GzmB immunoreactivity. In CSA, the vascular sprouting area increased significantly with GzmB treatment and reduced significantly with TSP-1 treatment. Western blot showed significantly reduced expression of TSP-1 in GzmB-treated retinal pigment epithelial cell culture and CSA supernatant compared with that in controls. Together, our findings suggest that the proteolysis of antiangiogenic factors such as TSP-1 by extracellular GzmB might represent a mechanism through which GzmB may contribute to nAMD-related CNV. Future studies are needed to investigate whether pharmacologic inhibition of extracellular GzmB can mitigate nAMD-related CNV by preserving intact TSP-1.

Neuroinflammation with increased glymphatic flow in a murine model of decompression sickness

This project investigated glial-based lymphatic (glymphatic) function and its role in a murine model of decompression sickness (DCS). DCS pathophysiology is traditionally viewed as being related to gas bubble formation from insoluble gas on decompression. However, a body of work implicates a role for a subset of inflammatory extracellular vesicles, 0.1 to 1 µm microparticles (MPs) that are elevated in human and rodent models in response to high gas pressure and rise further after decompression. Herein, we describe immunohistochemical and Western blot evidence showing that following high air pressure exposure, there are elevations of astrocyte NF-κB and microglial-ionized calcium-binding adaptor protein-1 (IBA-1) along with fluorescence contrast and MRI findings of an increase in glymphatic flow. Concomitant elevations of central nervous system-derived MPs coexpressing thrombospondin-1 (TSP) drain to deep cervical nodes and then to blood where they cause neutrophil activation. A new set of blood-borne MPs are generated that express filamentous actin at the surface that exacerbate neutrophil activation. Blood-brain barrier integrity is disrupted due to activated neutrophil sequestration that causes further astrocyte and microglial perturbation. When postdecompression node or blood MPs are injected into naïve mice, the same spectrum of abnormalities occur and they are blocked with coadministration of antibody to TSP. We conclude that high pressure/decompression causes neuroinflammation with an increased glymphatic flow. The resulting systemic liberation of TSP-expressing MPs sustains the neuroinflammatory cycle lasting for days.NEW & NOTEWORTHY A murine model of central nervous system (CNS) decompression sickness demonstrates that high gas pressure activates astrocytes and microglia triggering inflammatory microparticle (MP) production. Thrombospondin-expressing MPs are released from the CNS via enhanced glymphatic flow to the systemic circulation where they activate neutrophils. Secondary production of neutrophil-derived MPs causes further cell activation and neutrophil adherence to the brain microvasculature establishing a feed-forward neuroinflammatory cycle.

Discrete Correlation Summation Clustering Reveals Differential Regulation of Liver Metabolism by Thrombospondin-1 in Low-Fat and High-Fat Diet-Fed Mice

Thrombospondin-1 (TSP1) is a matricellular protein with many important roles in mediating carcinogenesis, fibrosis, leukocyte recruitment, and metabolism. We have previously shown a role of diet in the absence of TSP1 in liver metabolism in the context of a colorectal cancer model. However, the metabolic implications of TSP1 regulation by diet in the liver metabolism are currently understudied. Therefore Discrete correlation summation (DCS) was used to re-interrogate data and determine the metabolic alterations of TSP1 deficiency in the liver, providing new insights into the role of TSP1 in liver injury and the progression of liver pathologies such as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). DCS analysis provides a straightforward approach to rank covariance and data clustering when analyzing complex data sets. Using this approach, our previous liver metabolite data was re-analyzed by comparing wild-type (WT) and Thrombospondin-1 null (Thbs1-/-) mice, identifying changes driven by genotype and diet. Principal component analysis showed clustering of animals by genotype regardless of diet, indicating that TSP1 deficiency alters metabolite handling in the liver. High-fat diet consumption significantly altered over 150 metabolites in the Thbs1-/- livers versus approximately 90 in the wild-type livers, most involved in amino acid metabolism. The absence of Thbs1 differentially regulated tryptophan and tricarboxylic acid cycle metabolites implicated in the progression of NAFLD. Overall, the lack of Thbs1 caused a significant shift in liver metabolism with potential implications for liver injury and the progression of NAFLD.

Counter Regulation of Tumor Angiogenesis by Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor and Thrombospondin-1

Considerable progress has been made in our understanding of the process of angiogenesis in the context of normal and tumor tissue over the last fifty years. Angiogenesis, like most physiological processes, is carefully controlled by dynamic and opposing effects of positive factors, such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and negative factors, such as thrombospondin-1. In most cases, the progression of a small mass of cancerous cells to a life-threatening tumor depends upon the initiation of angiogenesis and involves the dysregulation of the angiogenic balance. Whereas our newfound appreciation for the role of angiogenesis in cancer has opened up new avenues for treatment, the success of these treatments, which have focused almost exclusively on antagonizing the VEGF pathway, has been limited to date. It is anticipated that this situation will improve as more therapeutics that target other pathways are developed, more strategies for combination therapies are advanced, more detailed stratification of patient populations occurs, and a better understanding of resistance to anti-angiogenic therapy is gained.

A role for Collagen VII in matrix protein secretion

Lack of type VII collagen (C7) disrupts cellular proteostasis yet the mechanism remains undescribed. By studying the relationship between C7 and the extracellular matrix (ECM)-associated proteins thrombospondin-1 (TSP1), type XII collagen (C12) and tissue transglutaminase (TGM2) in primary human dermal fibroblasts from multiple donors with or without the genetic disease recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB) (n=31), we demonstrate that secretion of each of these proteins is increased in the presence of C7. In dermal fibroblasts isolated from patients with RDEB, where C7 is absent or defective, association with the COPII outer coat protein SEC31 and ultimately secretion of each of these ECM-associated proteins is reduced and intracellular levels are increased. In RDEB fibroblasts, overall collagen secretion (as determined by the levels of hydroxyproline in the media) is unchanged while traffic from the ER to Golgi of TSP1, C12 and TGM2 occurs in a type I collagen (C1) dependent manner. In normal fibroblasts association of TSP1, C12 and TGM2 with the ER exit site transmembrane protein Transport ANd Golgi Organization-1 (TANGO1) as determined by proximity ligation assays, requires C7. In the absence of wild-type C7, or when ECM-associated proteins are overexpressed, C1 proximity and intracellular levels increase resulting in elevated cellular stress responses and elevated TGFβ signaling. Collectively, these data demonstrate a role for C7 in loading COPII vesicle cargo and provides a mechanism for disrupted proteostasis, elevated cellular stress and increased TGFβ signaling in patients with RDEB. Furthermore, our data point to a threshold of cargo loading that can be exceeded with increased protein levels leading to pathological outcomes in otherwise normal cells.

Disintegrin and Metalloproteinases (ADAMs [A Disintegrin and Metalloproteinase] and ADAMTSs [ADAMs With a Thrombospondin Motif]) in Aortic Aneurysm

Aortic aneurysm is a complex pathology that can be lethal if not detected in time. Although several molecular mechanisms and pathways have been identified to be involved in aortic aneurysm development and growth, the current lack of an effective pharmacological treatment highlights the need for a more thorough understanding of the factors that regulate the remodeling of the aortic wall in response to triggers that lead to aneurysm formation. This task is further complicated by the regional heterogeneity of the aorta and that thoracic and abdominal aortic aneurysm are distinct pathologies with different risk factors and distinct course of progression. ADAMs (a disintegrin and metalloproteinases) and ADAMTS (ADAMs with a thrombospondin motif) are proteinases that share similarities with other proteinases but possess unique and diverse properties that place them in a category of their own. In this review, we discuss what is known on how ADAMs and ADAMTSs are altered in abdominal aortic aneurysm and thoracic aortic aneurysm in patients, in different animal models, and their role in regulating the function of different vascular and inflammatory cell types. A full understanding of the role of ADAMs and ADAMTSs in aortic aneurysm will help reveal a more complete understanding of the underlying mechanism driving aneurysm formation, which will help towards developing an effective treatment in preventing or limiting the growth of aortic aneurysm.

High Level of Staufen1 Expression Confers Longer Recurrence Free Survival to Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Patients by Promoting THBS1 mRNA Degradation

Stau1 is a pluripotent RNA-binding protein that is responsible for the post-transcriptional regulation of a multitude of transcripts. Here, we observed that lung cancer patients with a high Stau1 expression have a longer recurrence free survival. Strikingly, Stau1 did not impair cell proliferation in vitro, but rather cell migration and cell adhesion. In vivo, Stau1 depletion favored tumor progression and metastases development. In addition, Stau1 depletion strongly impaired vessel maturation. Among a panel of candidate genes, we specifically identified the mRNA encoding the cell adhesion molecule Thrombospondin 1 (THBS1) as a new target for Staufen-mediated mRNA decay. Altogether, our results suggest that regulation of THBS1 expression by Stau1 may be a key process involved in lung cancer progression.

Altitude, Exercise, and Skeletal Muscle Angio-Adaptive Responses to Hypoxia: A Complex Story

Hypoxia, defined as a reduced oxygen availability, can be observed in many tissues in response to various physiological and pathological conditions. As a hallmark of the altitude environment, ambient hypoxia results from a drop in the oxygen pressure in the atmosphere with elevation. A hypoxic stress can also occur at the cellular level when the oxygen supply through the local microcirculation cannot match the cells’ metabolic needs. This has been suggested in contracting skeletal myofibers during physical exercise. Regardless of its origin, ambient or exercise-induced, muscle hypoxia triggers complex angio-adaptive responses in the skeletal muscle tissue. These can result in the expression of a plethora of angio-adaptive molecules, ultimately leading to the growth, stabilization, or regression of muscle capillaries. This remarkable plasticity of the capillary network is referred to as angio-adaptation. It can alter the capillary-to-myofiber interface, which represent an important determinant of skeletal muscle function. These angio-adaptive molecules can also be released in the circulation as myokines to act on distant tissues. This review addresses the respective and combined potency of ambient hypoxia and exercise to generate a cellular hypoxic stress in skeletal muscle. The major skeletal muscle angio-adaptive responses to hypoxia so far described in this context will be discussed, including existing controversies in the field. Finally, this review will highlight the molecular complexity of the skeletal muscle angio-adaptive response to hypoxia and identify current gaps of knowledges in this field of exercise and environmental physiology.

Angiogenic Secretion Profile of Valvular Interstitial Cells Varies With Cellular Sex and Phenotype

Angiogenesis is a hallmark of fibrocalcific aortic valve disease (CAVD). An imbalance of pro- and anti-angiogenic factors is thought to play a role in driving this disease process, and valvular interstitial cells (VICs) may act as a significant source of these factors. CAVD is also known to exhibit sexual dimorphism in its presentation, and previous work suggested that VICs may exhibit cellular-scale sex differences in the context of angiogenesis. The current study sought to investigate the production of angiogenesis-related factors by male and female VICs possessing quiescent (qVIC) or activated (aVIC) phenotypes. Production of several pro-angiogenic growth factors was elevated in porcine aVICs relative to qVICs, with sex differences found in both the total amounts secreted and their distribution across media vs. lysate. Porcine valvular endothelial cells (VECs) were also sex-separated in culture and found to behave similarly with respect to metabolic activity, viability, and tubulogenesis, but male VECs exhibited higher proliferation rates than female VECs. VECs responded to sex-matched media conditioned by VICs with increased tubulogenesis, but decreased proliferation, particularly upon treatment with aVIC-derived media. It is likely that this attenuation of proliferation resulted from a combination of decreased basic fibroblast growth factor and increased thrombospondin-2 (TSP2) secreted by aVICs. Overall, this study indicates that VICs regulate angiogenic VEC behavior via an array of paracrine molecules, whose secretion and sequestration are affected by both VIC phenotype and sex. Moreover, strong sex differences in TSP2 secretion by VICs may have implications for understanding sexual dimorphism in valve fibrosis, as TSP2 is also a powerful regulator of fibrosis.

Extracellular Matrix Biomarkers in Colorectal Cancer

The cellular microenvironment composition and changes therein play an extremely important role in cancer development. Changes in the extracellular matrix (ECM), which constitutes a majority of the tumor stroma, significantly contribute to the development of the tumor microenvironment. These alterations within the ECM and formation of the tumor microenvironment ultimately lead to tumor development, invasion, and metastasis. The ECM is composed of various molecules such as collagen, elastin, laminin, fibronectin, and the MMPs that cleave these protein fibers and play a central role in tissue remodeling. When healthy cells undergo an insult like DNA damage and become cancerous, if the ECM does not support these neoplastic cells, further development, invasion, and metastasis fail to occur. Therefore, ECM-related cancer research is indispensable, and ECM components can be useful biomarkers as well as therapeutic targets. Colorectal cancer specifically, is also affected by the ECM and many studies have been conducted to unravel the complex association between the two. Here we summarize the importance of several ECM components in colorectal cancer as well as their potential roles as biomarkers.

Astrocyte-Derived Thrombospondin Induces Cortical Synaptogenesis in a Sex-Specific Manner

The regulation of synaptic connectivity in the brain is vital to proper functioning and development of the CNS. Formation of neural networks in the CNS has been shown to be heavily influenced by astrocytes, which secrete factors, including thrombospondin (TSP) family proteins, that promote synaptogenesis. However, whether this process is different between males and females has not been thoroughly investigated. In this study, we found that cortical neurons purified from newborn male rats showed a significantly more robust synaptogenic response compared with female-derived cells when exposed to factors secreted from astrocytes. This difference was driven largely by the neuronal response to TSP2, which increased synapses in male neurons while showing no effect on female neurons. Blockade of endogenous 17β-estradiol (E2) production with letrozole normalized the TSP response between male and female cells, indicating a level of regulation by estrogen signaling. Our results suggest that male and female neurons show a divergent response to TSP synaptogenic signaling, contributing to sex differences in astrocyte-mediated synaptic connectivity.

α2δ-1 switches the phenotype of synaptic AMPA receptors by physically disrupting heteromeric subunit assembly

Many neurological disorders show an increased prevalence of GluA2-lacking, Ca2+-permeable AMPA receptors (CP-AMPARs), which dramatically alters synaptic function. However, the molecular mechanism underlying this distinct synaptic plasticity remains enigmatic. Here, we show that nerve injury potentiates postsynaptic, but not presynaptic, CP-AMPARs in the spinal dorsal horn via α2δ-1. Overexpressing α2δ-1, previously regarded as a Ca2+ channel subunit, augments CP-AMPAR levels at the cell surface and synapse. Mechanistically, α2δ-1 physically interacts with both GluA1 and GluA2 via its C terminus, inhibits the GluA1/GluA2 heteromeric assembly, and increases GluA2 retention in the endoplasmic reticulum. Consequently, α2δ-1 diminishes the availability and synaptic expression of GluA1/GluA2 heterotetramers in the spinal cord in neuropathic pain. Inhibiting α2δ-1 with gabapentin or disrupting the α2δ-1-AMPAR complex fully restores the intracellular assembly and synaptic dominance of heteromeric GluA1/GluA2 receptors. Thus, α2δ-1 is a pivotal AMPAR-interacting protein that controls the subunit composition and Ca2+ permeability of postsynaptic AMPARs.

Major Reservoir for Heparin-Releasable TFPIα (Tissue Factor Pathway Inhibitor α) Is Extracellular Matrix

[Figure: see text].

METTL3 Regulates Angiogenesis by Modulating let-7e-5p and miRNA-18a-5p Expression in Endothelial Cells

[Figure: see text].

Endothelial Cell Behavior Is Determined by Receptor Clustering Induced by Thrombospondin-1

The thrombospondins (TSPs) are a family of multimeric extracellular matrix proteins that dynamically regulate cellular behavior and response to stimuli. In so doing, the TSPs directly and indirectly affect biological processes such as embryonic development, wound healing, immune response, angiogenesis, and cancer progression. Many of the direct effects of Thrombospondin 1 (TSP-1) result from the engagement of a wide range of cell surface receptors including syndecans, low density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1 (LRP1), CD36, integrins, and CD47. Different or even opposing outcomes of TSP-1 actions in certain pathologic contexts may occur, depending on the structural/functional domain involved. To expedite response to external stimuli, these receptors, along with vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2) and Src family kinases, are present in specific membrane microdomains, such as lipid rafts or tetraspanin-enriched microdomains. The molecular organization of these membrane microdomains and their constituents is modulated by TSP-1. In this review, we will describe how the presence of TSP-1 at the plasma membrane affects endothelial cell signal transduction and angiogenesis.

Platelet TSP-1 controls prostate cancer-induced osteoclast differentiation and bone marrow-derived cell mobilization through TGFβ-1

The development of distant metastasis is the leading cause of prostate cancer (CaP)-related death, with the skeleton being the primary site of metastasis. While the progression of primary tumors and the growth of bone metastatic tumors are well described, the mechanisms controlling pre-metastatic niche formation and homing of CaP to bone remain unclear. Through prior studies, we demonstrated that platelet secretion was required for ongoing tumor growth and pre-metastatic tumor-induced bone formation. Platelets stimulated bone marrow-derived cell (BMDC) mobilization to tumors supporting angiogenesis. We hypothesized that proteins released by the platelet α granules were responsible for inducing changes in the pre-metastatic bone niche. We found that the classically anti-angiogenic protein thrombospondin (TSP)-1 was significantly increased in the platelets of mice with RM1 murine CaP tumors. To determine the role of increased TSP-1, we implanted tumors in TSP-1 null animals and assessed changes in tumor growth and pre-metastatic niche. TSP-1 loss resulted in increased tumor size and enhanced angiogenesis by immunohistochemistry. Conversely, TSP-1 deletion reduced BMDC mobilization and enhanced osteoclast formation resulting in decreased tumor-induced bone formation as measured by microcomputed tomography. We hypothesized that changes in the pre-metastatic niche were due to the retention of TGF-β1 in the platelets of mice after TSP-1 deletion. To assess the importance of platelet-derived TGF-β1, we implanted RM1 CaP tumors in mice with platelet factor 4-driven deletion of TGF-β1 in platelets and megakaryocytes. Like TSP-1 deletion, loss of platelet TGF-β1 resulted in increased angiogenesis with a milder effect on tumor size and BMDC release. Within the bone microenvironment, platelet TGF-β1 deletion prevented tumor-induced bone formation due to increased osteoclastogenesis. Thus, we demonstrate that the TSP-1/TGF-β1 axis regulates pre-metastatic niche formation and tumor-induced bone turnover. Targeting the platelet release of TSP-1 or TGF-β1 represents a potential method to interfere with the process of CaP metastasis to bone.

Thrombospondin-2 spatiotemporal expression in skeletal fractures

Fracture healing is a complex process that relies heavily on the carefully orchestrated expansion and differentiation of periosteal mesenchymal progenitor cells (MSC). Identification of new markers for periosteal MSCs is essential for the development of fracture therapeutics. Expression of the matricellular protein thrombospondin-2 (TSP2) increases during early fracture healing; however, it is currently unknown what cell population expresses TSP2. Using a TSP2 GFP reporter mouse and a stabilized murine fracture model, we characterized the expression of TSP2 during the inflammatory, soft callus formation, and hard callus formation phases of fracture healing. In addition, using TSP2 GFP positive cells harvested from reporter mouse cells, we characterized the cell population using flow cytometry and colony formation assays. In uninjured diaphyseal bone, we observed TSP2 expression in the cells located along the inner periosteum. We also observed a population of TSP2 expressing cells in undifferentiated regions of early fracture callus and along the periphery of the callus. Later in callus development, TSP2 cells were broadly distributed in the undifferentiated callus, but GFP was not expressed by chondrocytes. Flow cytometry confirmed that the majority of TSP2 expressing cells were positive for traditional murine MSC markers. Our in vitro assays further supported these findings by demonstrating all adherent and colony-forming cells expressed TSP2. Taken together, our results suggest that TSP2 is expressed by undifferentiated MSCs, but downregulated in chondrocytes. Clinical significance: expression of the matricellular protein TSP2 is a promising new marker to identify MSCs in early fracture healing.

Identification of scavenger receptors and thrombospondin-type-1 repeat proteins potentially relevant for plastid recognition in Sacoglossa

Functional kleptoplasty is a photosymbiotic relationship, in which photosynthetically active chloroplasts serve as an intracellular symbiont for a heterotrophic host. Among Metazoa, functional kleptoplasty is only found in marine sea slugs belonging to the Sacoglossa and recently described in Rhabdocoela worms. Although functional kleptoplasty has been intensively studied in Sacoglossa, the fundamentals of the specific recognition of the chloroplasts and their subsequent incorporation are unknown. The key to ensure the initiation of any symbiosis is the ability to specifically recognize the symbiont and to differentiate a symbiont from a pathogen. For instance, in photosymbiotic cnidarians, several studies have shown that the host innate immune system, in particular scavenger receptors (SRs) and thrombospondin-type-1 repeat (TSR) protein superfamily, is playing a major role in the process of recognizing and differentiating symbionts from pathogens. In the present study, SRs and TSRs of three Sacoglossa sea slugs, Elysia cornigera, Elysia timida, and Elysia chlorotica, were identified by translating available transcriptomes into potential proteins and searching for receptor specific protein and/or transmembrane domains. Both receptors classes are highly diverse in the slugs, and many new domain arrangements for each receptor class were found. The analyses of the gene expression of these three species provided a set of species-specific candidate genes, that is, SR-Bs, SR-Es, C-type lectins, and TSRs, that are potentially relevant for the recognition of kleptoplasts. The results set the base for future experimental studies to understand if and how these candidate receptors are indeed involved in chloroplast recognition.

Thrombospondin-5 and fluvastatin promote angiogenesis and are protective against endothelial cell apoptosis

The thrombospondins (TSPs), multifunctional matricellular proteins, are known mediators of endothelial cell (EC) angiogenesis and apoptosis. TSP-1, an antiangiogenic molecule, is important in the progression of vascular disease, in part by inducing EC apoptosis. TSP-2, although less studied, also induces EC apoptosis and inhibits angiogenesis. The effects of TSP-5 are largely unexplored in ECs, but TSP-5 is believed to be protective against arterial disease. Statin drugs have been shown to have beneficial pleiotropic effects, including decreasing EC apoptosis, increasing angiogenesis, and blocking TSP signaling. We hypothesized TSP-5 will be proangiogenic and antiapoptotic, and statin pretreatment would reverse the proapoptotic and antiangiogenic phenotype of TSP-1 and TSP-2. ECs were exposed to serum-free medium, TSP-1, TSP-2, or TSP-5 with or without fluvastatin pretreatment. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction was performed on 96 apoptosis and 96 angiogenesis-related genes using microfluidic card assays. Angiogenesis was measured using Matrigel assays, while apoptosis was measured by fluorescent caspase assay. TSP-5 suppressed apoptotic genes and had a mixed effect on the angiogenic genes; however, TSP-5 did not alter apoptois but was proangiogenic. Pretreatment with fluvastatin downregulated proapoptotic genes and apoptosis and upregulated proangiogenic genes and angiogenesis. Findings indicate TSP-5 and fluvastatin have a protective effect on ECs, being proangiogenic and reversing the antiangiogenic effects of TSP-1 and TSP-2. In conclusion, TSP-5 and fluvastatin may be beneficial for inducing angiogenesis in the setting of ischemia.

Synthetic poly(2-acrylamido-2-methylpropanesulfonic acid) gel induces chondrogenic differentiation of ATDC5 cells via a novel protein reservoir function

We previously demonstrated that a synthetic negatively charged poly(2-acrylamido-2-methylpropanesulfonic acid) (PAMPS) gel induced chondrogenic differentiation of ATDC5 cells. In this study, we clarified the underlying molecular mechanism, in particular, focusing on the events that occurred at the interface between the gel and the cells. Gene expression profiling revealed that the expression of extracellular components was enhanced in the ATDC5 cells that were cultured on the PAMPS gel, suggesting that extracellular proteins secreted from the ATDC5 cells might be adsorbed in the PAMPS gel, thereby contributing to the induction of chondrogenic differentiation. Therefore, we created "Treated-PAMPS gel," which adsorbed various proteins secreted from the cultured ATDC5 cells during 7 days. Proteomic analysis identified 27 proteins, including extracellular matrix proteins such as Types I, III, and V collagens and thrombospondin (THBS) in the Treated-PAMPS gel. The Treated-PAMPS gel preferentially induced expression of chondrogenic markers, namely, aggrecan and Type II collagen, in the ATDC5 cells compared with the untreated PAMPS gel. Addition of recombinant THBS1 to the ATDC5 cells significantly enhanced the PAMPS-induced chondrogenic differentiation, whereas knockdown of THBS1 completely abolished this response. In conclusion, we demonstrated that the PAMPS gel has the potential to induce chondrogenic differentiation through novel reservoir functions, and the adsorbed THBS plays a significant role in the induction.

Profile of Indian Patients With Membranous Nephropathy

Introduction

The majority of primary membranous nephropathy (MN) cases are no longer considered idiopathic with the discovery of the podocytic autoantigens: phospholipase A2 receptor (PLA2R) and thrombospondin type 1 domain-containing 7A (THSD7A). Limited data on PLA2R-related MN in Indians exist in literature, and THSD7A-related MN remains undocumented in this population. We aimed to characterize the baseline PLA2R and THSD7A profile of adult and pediatric membranous nephropathy (MN) in a large Indian single-institution cohort.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of all cases of MN (primary and secondary) between 2014 and 2017 was performed with PLA2R direct immunofluorescence and THSD7A immunohistochemistry on the biopsies and anti-PLA2R enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) on baseline sera.

Results

MN constituted 10% of kidney biopsies received in the study period. A total of 216 cases with adequate tissue underwent PLA2R direct immunofluorescence, and 110 of them had available sera for PLA2R ELISA. Combining both testing methods, the prevalence of PLA2R-related primary MN was 72.8%, with moderate concordance between the 2 methods (kappa 0.61). PLA2R was also detected in 16.7% cases of secondary MN, most commonly lupus MN. THSD7A immunohistochemistry performed on 176 cases showed a prevalence of 3.4% in primary MN. One case of lupus MN was also positive for THSD7A. Dual positivity (PLA2R and THSD7A) was noted in 2 cases. The large pediatric cohort tested showed a prevalence of 44% of PLA2R based on tissue testing, whereas 1 case demonstrated THSD7A positivity.

Conclusion

This study in a large cohort of Indian patients demonstrates prevalence rates of PLA2R- and THSD7A-related MN similar to world literature, including the substantial cohort of pediatric MN. It also confirms variation in MN in the form of outliers within PLA2R (related to tissue and serum testing), dual positivity for PLA2R and THSD7A, and PLA2R/THSD7A-positive secondary MN.

Regulation of Synaptic Development by Astrocyte Signaling Factors and Their Emerging Roles in Substance Abuse

Astrocytes have critical functions throughout the central nervous system (CNS) and have emerged as regulators of synaptic development and function. With their highly complex morphologies, they are able to interact with thousands of synapses via peripheral astrocytic processes (PAPs), ensheathing neuronal axons and dendrites to form the tripartite synapse. In this way, astrocytes engage in crosstalk with neurons to mediate a variety of CNS processes including the regulation of extracellular matrix protein signaling, formation and maintenance of the blood-brain barrier (BBB), axon growth and guidance, homeostasis of the synaptic microenvironment, synaptogenesis, and the promotion of synaptic diversity. In this review, we discuss several key astrocyte signaling factors (thrombospondins, netrins, apolipoproteins, neuregulins, bone morphogenetic proteins, and neuroligins) in the maintenance and regulation of synapse formation. We also explore how these astrocyte signaling factors are impacted by and contribute to substance abuse, particularly alcohol and cocaine use.

C-Mannosylation of Toxoplasma gondii proteins promotes attachment to host cells and parasite virulence

C-Mannosylation is a common modification of thrombospondin type 1 repeats present in metazoans and recently identified also in apicomplexan parasites. This glycosylation is mediated by enzymes of the DPY19 family that transfer α-mannoses to tryptophan residues in the sequence WX ₂WX ₂C, which is part of the structurally essential tryptophan ladder. Here, deletion of the dpy19 gene in the parasite Toxoplasma gondii abolished C-mannosyltransferase activity and reduced levels of the micronemal protein MIC2. The loss of C-mannosyltransferase activity was associated with weakened parasite adhesion to host cells and with reduced parasite motility, host cell invasion, and parasite egress. Interestingly, the C-mannosyltransferase-deficient Δdpy19 parasites were strongly attenuated in virulence and induced protective immunity in mice. This parasite attenuation could not simply be explained by the decreased MIC2 level and strongly suggests that absence of C-mannosyltransferase activity leads to an insufficient level of additional proteins. In summary, our results indicate that T. gondii C-mannosyltransferase DPY19 is not essential for parasite survival, but is important for adhesion, motility, and virulence.

ADAMs and ADAMTSs

Proteolysis has emerged as a key post-translational regulator of the function of molecules on the cell surface and in the extracellular milieu. In principle, proteolysis can activate or inactivate a substrate, or can change its functional properties. ADAMs (a disintegrin and metalloprotease) and ADAMTS (a disintegrin-like and metalloprotease domain with thrombospondin type 1 repeats) proteases are related members of a superfamily of metallo-endopeptidases that also includes MMPs and astacins. ADAMs are integral membrane proteins that typically cleave other membrane anchored proteins, whereas ADAMTS proteases lack a membrane anchor, and process both cell-surface and secreted molecules, the latter mostly extracellular matrix (ECM) components. ADAMs are implicated in fertilization, neurogenesis, in regulating the function of ligands for the EGF-receptor, and in the release of proteins such as the pro-inflammatory cytokine TNFα from the plasma membrane. ADAMTS proteases have key roles in embryonic development, including lung development, the molecular maturation of von Willebrand factor and procollagen as well as organization of fibrillin microfibrils in ECM, and are implicated in the pathogenesis of diverse lung and airway disorders. Here, we provide a general overview of the biochemical properties and physiological functions of ADAMs and ADAMTS proteases and describe their relevance to lung and airway disorders.

TSP1 and TSP2 deficiencies affect LOX protein distribution in the femoral diaphysis and pro-peptide removal in marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells in vitro

Thrombospondin-1 and 2 have each been implicated in collagen fibrillogenesis. We addressed the possibility that deficits in lysyl oxidase (LOX) contribute to the extracellular matrix (ECM) phenotype of TSP-deficient bone. We examined detergent insoluble (mature cross-linked) and soluble (newly secreted) ECM fractions prepared from diaphyseal cortical bone. Detergent-insoluble hydroxyproline content, an indicator of cross-linked collagen content and LOX function, was reduced in female TSP-deficient bones. In male diaphyses, only TSP2 deficiency affected insoluble hydroxyproline content. Western blot suggested that removal of the LOX-pro-peptide (LOPP), an indication of LOX activation, was not affected by TSP status. Instead, the distribution of pro-LOX and mature LOX between immature and mature ECM was altered by TSP-status. LOX was also examined in primary marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) treated with ascorbate. Relative LOPP levels were elevated compared to WT in MSC conditioned medium from female TSP-deficient mice. When cells were serum starved to limit LOX pro-peptide removal, pro-LOX levels were elevated in TSP2-/- cells compared to wild-type. This phenotype was associated with a transient increase in BMP1 levels in TSP2-/- conditioned medium. TSP2 was detected in bone tissue and osteoblast cell culture. TSP1 was only detected in insoluble ECM prepared from WT diaphyseal bone samples. Our data suggest that the trimeric thrombospondins contribute to bone matrix quality by regulating the distribution of pro and mature LOX between newly secreted, immature ECM and mature, cross-linked ECM.

Thrombospondin 1 and Its Diverse Roles as a Regulator of Extracellular Matrix in Fibrotic Disease

Thrombospondin 1 (TSP1) is a matricellular extracellular matrix protein that has diverse roles in regulating cellular processes important for the pathogenesis of fibrotic diseases. We will present evidence for the importance of TSP1 control of latent transforming growth factor beta activation in renal fibrosis with an emphasis on diabetic nephropathy. Other functions of TSP1 that affect renal fibrosis, including regulation of inflammation and capillary density, will be addressed. Emerging roles for TSP1 N-terminal domain regulation of collagen matrix assembly, direct effects of TSP1-collagen binding, and intracellular functions of TSP1 in mediating endoplasmic reticulum stress responses in extracellular matrix remodeling and fibrosis, which could potentially affect renal fibrogenesis, will also be discussed. Finally, we will address possible strategies for targeting TSP1 functions to treat fibrotic renal disease.

Thrombospondin-1 Mediates Axon Regeneration in Retinal Ganglion Cells

Neuronal subtypes show diverse injury responses, but the molecular underpinnings remain elusive. Using transgenic mice that allow reliable visualization of axonal fate, we demonstrate that intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) are both resilient to cell death and highly regenerative. Using RNA sequencing (RNA-seq), we show genes that are differentially expressed in ipRGCs and that associate with their survival and axon regeneration. Strikingly, thrombospondin-1 (Thbs1) ranked as the most differentially expressed gene, along with the well-documented injury-response genes Atf3 and Jun. THBS1 knockdown in RGCs eliminated axon regeneration. Conversely, RGC overexpression of THBS1 enhanced regeneration in both ipRGCs and non-ipRGCs, an effect that was dependent on syndecan-1, a known THBS1-binding protein. All structural domains of the THBS1 were not equally effective; the trimerization and C-terminal domains promoted regeneration, while the THBS type-1 repeats were dispensable. Our results identify cell-type-specific induction of Thbs1 as a novel gene conferring high regenerative capacity.

The α2δ-1-NMDA Receptor Complex Is Critically Involved in Neuropathic Pain Development and Gabapentin Therapeutic Actions

α2δ-1, commonly known as a voltage-activated Ca²⁺ channel subunit, is a binding site of gabapentinoids used to treat neuropathic pain and epilepsy. However, it is unclear how α2δ-1 contributes to neuropathic pain and gabapentinoid actions. Here, we show that Cacna2d1 overexpression potentiates presynaptic and postsynaptic NMDAR activity of spinal dorsal horn neurons to cause pain hypersensitivity. Conversely, Cacna2d1 knockdown or ablation normalizes synaptic NMDAR activity increased by nerve injury. α2δ-1 forms a heteromeric complex with NMDARs in rodent and human spinal cords. The α2δ-1-NMDAR interaction predominantly occurs through the C terminus of α2δ-1 and promotes surface trafficking and synaptic targeting of NMDARs. Gabapentin or an α2δ-1 C terminus-interfering peptide normalizes NMDAR synaptic targeting and activity increased by nerve injury. Thus, α2δ-1 is an NMDAR-interacting protein that increases NMDAR synaptic delivery in neuropathic pain. Gabapentinoids reduce neuropathic pain by inhibiting forward trafficking of α2δ-1-NMDAR complexes.

Hyperactivity with Disrupted Attention by Activation of an Astrocyte Synaptogenic Cue

Hyperactivity and disturbances of attention are common behavioral disorders whose underlying cellular and neural circuit causes are not understood. We report the discovery that striatal astrocytes drive such phenotypes through a hitherto unknown synaptic mechanism. We found that striatal medium spiny neurons (MSNs) triggered astrocyte signaling via γ-aminobutyric acid B (GABAB) receptors. Selective chemogenetic activation of this pathway in striatal astrocytes in vivo resulted in acute behavioral hyperactivity and disrupted attention. Such responses also resulted in upregulation of the synaptogenic cue thrombospondin-1 (TSP1) in astrocytes, increased excitatory synapses, enhanced corticostriatal synaptic transmission, and increased MSN action potential firing in vivo. All of these changes were reversed by blocking TSP1 effects. Our data identify a form of bidirectional neuron-astrocyte communication and demonstrate that acute reactivation of a single latent astrocyte synaptogenic cue alters striatal circuits controlling behavior, revealing astrocytes and the TSP1 pathway as therapeutic targets in hyperactivity, attention deficit, and related psychiatric disorders.

Evaluation of second trimester amniotic fluid ADAMTS4, ADAMTS5, interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α levels in patients with gestational diabetes mellitus

AIM

To test the hypothesis that altered A Disintegrin and Metalloproteinase Domains with Thrombospondins motifs (ADAMTS) is implicated in the etiopathogenesis of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM).

METHODS

All pregnant women who underwent elective amniocentesis for karyotype analysis between January 1, 2016, and January 1, 2018, were included in this study. From this cohort, the study group consisting of 20 patients diagnosed with GDM was selected and compared against a control group consisting of 20 age- and body mass index (BMI)-matched patients without GDM. ADAMTS4, ADAMTS5, interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) levels were compared in the second trimester amniotic fluid of patients with GDM and normoglycemic pregnant women.

RESULTS

No significant differences were observed between GDM and control groups regarding age, BMI, gestational age at amniocentesis and indication for amniocentesis. Mean amniotic fluid ADAMTS4 and ADAMTS5 levels were significantly increased in the GDM group compared with the control group (253.5 ± 18.7 pg/mL and 188.5 ± 21.3 pg/mL, P < 0.001; 192.9 ± 16.4 pg/mL and 154.8 ± 19.9 pg/mL, P = 0.021, respectively). Significant increases in IL-6 and TNF-α levels were also detected in the amniotic fluid of GDM patients relative to controls (136.2 ± 17.3 pg/mL and 98.3 ± 11.5 pg/mL, P < 0.001; 154.2 ± 12.5 pg/mL and 86.2 ± 10.8 pg/mL, P < 0.001, respectively).

CONCLUSION

The data presented here suggest that increased levels of ADAMTS4, ADAMTS5, IL-6 and TNF-α may play an important role in the progression of GDM.

Structure and function insights garnered from in silico modeling of the thrombospondin type-1 domain-containing 7A antigen

The thrombospondin type-1 domain containing 7A (THSD7A) protein is known to be one of the antigens responsible for the autoimmune disorder idiopathic membranous nephropathy. The structure of this antigen is currently unsolved experimentally. Here we present a homology model of the extracellular portion of the THSD7A antigen. The structure was evaluated for folding patterns, epitope site prediction, and function was predicted. Results show that this protein contains 21 extracellular domains and with the exception of the first two domains, has a regular repeating pattern of TSP-1-like followed by F-spondin-like domains. Our results indicate the presence of a novel Trp-ladder sequence of WxxxxW in the TSP-1-like domains. Of the 21 domains, 18 were shown to have epitope binding sites as predicted by epitopia. Several of the F-spondin-like domains have insertions in the canonical TSP fold, most notably the coiled coil region in domain 4, which may be utilized in protein-protein binding interactions, suggesting that this protein functions as a heparan sulfate binding site.

Pentraxin 3 regulates synaptic function by inducing AMPA receptor clustering via ECM remodeling and β1-integrin

Control of synapse number and function in the developing central nervous system is critical to the formation of neural circuits. Astrocytes play a key role in this process by releasing factors that promote the formation of excitatory synapses. Astrocyte‐secreted thrombospondins (TSPs) induce the formation of structural synapses, which however remain post‐synaptically silent, suggesting that completion of early synaptogenesis may require a two‐step mechanism. Here, we show that the humoral innate immune molecule Pentraxin 3 (PTX3) is expressed in the developing rodent brain. PTX3 plays a key role in promoting functionally‐active CNS synapses, by increasing the surface levels and synaptic clustering of AMPA glutamate receptors. This process involves tumor necrosis factor‐induced protein 6 (TSG6), remodeling of the perineuronal network, and a β1‐integrin/ERK pathway. Furthermore, PTX3 activity is regulated by TSP1, which directly interacts with the N‐terminal region of PTX3. These data unveil a fundamental role of PTX3 in promoting the first wave of synaptogenesis, and show that interplay of TSP1 and PTX3 sets the proper balance between synaptic growth and synapse function in the developing brain.

Dysregulated Marginal Zone B Cell Compartment in a Mouse Model of Sjögren's Syndrome with Ocular Inflammation

The risk of developing lymphoma in patients with Sjögren’s syndrome (SS) is 44 times higher than in the normal population with the most common lymphomas derived from marginal zone B (MZB) cells. Current understanding of the role of MZB cells in SS is primarily based on salivary gland pathology, while their contextual association with lacrimal glands and ocular manifestations largely remains unknown. We examined this possibility using a SS mouse model (thrombospondin-1 deficient (TSP1^−/−)) with well-characterized ocular disease. We determined the frequency, localization, and cytokine profiles of MZB cells and their association with an antibody response in TSP1^−/− mice treated with a TSP-derived peptide. A significantly increased frequency of MZB cells was detected in the spleens and lacrimal glands of TSP1^−/− mice in comparison to wild-type tissues as detected by immunostaining. An altered cytokine profile of TSP1^−/− MZB cells was supportive of T helper 17 (Th17)-related pathogenesis. A significantly reduced antibody response and the splenic MZB compartment against an eye-derived antigen were noted in TSP-derived peptide-treated mice. These changes correspond with the previously reported ability of the peptide to ameliorate SS-related ocular manifestations. Collectively, our results demonstrate dysregulation of MZB cells in TSP1^−/− mice and highlight their role in the context of SS-related chronic ocular surface disease.

The EGF-LIKE domain of thrombospondin-4 is a key determinant in the development of pain states due to increased excitatory synaptogenesis

Up-regulation of thrombospondin-4 (TSP4) or voltage-gated calcium channel subunit α₂δ₁ (Ca_vα₂δ₁) proteins in the spinal cord contributes to neuropathic pain development through an unidentified mechanism. We have previously shown that TSP4 interacts with Ca_vα₂δ₁ to promote excitatory synaptogenesis and the development of chronic pain states. However, the TSP4 determinants responsible for these changes are not known. Here, we tested the hypothesis that the Ca_vα₂δ₁-binding domains of TSP4 are synaptogenic and pronociceptive. We mapped the major Ca_vα₂δ₁-binding domains of TSP4 within the coiled-coil and epidermal growth factor (EGF)-like domains in vitro Intrathecal injection of TSP4 fragment proteins containing the EGF-like domain (EGF-LIKE) into naïve rodents was sufficient for inducing behavioral hypersensitivity similar to that produced by an equal molar dose of full-length TSP4. Gabapentin, a drug that binds to Ca_vα₂δ₁, blocked EGF-LIKE-induced behavioral hypersensitivity in a dose-dependent manner, supporting the notion that EGF-LIKE interacts with Ca_vα₂δ₁ and thereby mediates behavioral hypersensitivity. This notion was further supported by our findings that a peptide within EGF-LIKE (EGFD355-369) could block TSP4- or Ca_vα₂δ₁-induced behavioral hypersensitivity after intrathecal injections. Furthermore, only TSP4 proteins that contained EGF-LIKE could promote excitatory synaptogenesis between sensory and spinal cord neurons, which could be blocked by peptide EGFD355-369. Together, these findings indicate that EGF-LIKE is the molecular determinant that mediates aberrant excitatory synaptogenesis and chronic pain development. Blocking interactions between EGF-LIKE and Ca_vα₂δ₁ could be an alternative approach in designing target-specific pain medications.

Novel differences in gene expression and functional capabilities of myofibroblast populations in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), a chronic progressive interstitial pneumonia, is characterized by excessive fibroproliferation. Key effector cells in IPF are myofibroblasts that are recruited from three potential sources: resident fibroblasts, fibrocytes, and epithelial cells. We hypothesized that IPF myofibroblasts from different sources display unique gene expression differences and distinct functional characteristics. Primary human pulmonary fibroblasts (normal and IPF), fibrocytes, and epithelial cells were activated using the profibrotic factors TGF-β and TNF-α. The resulting myofibroblasts were characterized using cell proliferation, soluble collagen, and contractility assays, ELISA, and human fibrosis PCR arrays. Genes of significance in human whole lung were validated by immunohistochemistry on human lung sections. Fibroblast-derived myofibroblasts exhibited the greatest increase in expression of profibrotic genes and genes involved in extracellular matrix remodeling and signal transduction. Functional studies demonstrated that myofibroblasts derived from fibrocytes expressed mostly soluble collagen and chemokine (C-C) motif ligand (CCL) 18 but were the least proliferative of the myofibroblast progeny. Activated IPF fibroblasts displayed the highest levels of contractility and CCL2 production. This study identified novel differences in gene expression and functional characteristics of different myofibroblast populations. Further investigation into the myofibroblast phenotype may lead to potential therapeutic targets in future IPF research.

The contribution of cross-talk between the cell-surface proteins CD36 and CD47-TSP-1 in osteoclast formation and function

Antibody-mediated blockade of cluster of differentiation 47 (CD47)-thrombospondin-1 (TSP-1) interactions blocks osteoclast formation in vitro and attenuates parathyroid hormone (PTH)-induced hypercalcemia in vivo in mice. Hypercalcemia in this model reflects increased bone resorption. TSP-1 has two cell-associated binding partners, CD47 and CD36. The roles of these two molecules in mediating the effects of TSP1 in osteoclasts are unclear. Osteoclast formation was attenuated but not absent when preosteoclasts isolated from CD47^-/- mice were cocultured with WT osteoblasts. Suppressing CD36 in osteoclast progenitors also attenuated osteoclast formation. The hypercalcemic response to a PTH infusion was blunted in CD47^-/-/CD36^-/- (double knockout (DKO)) female mice but not CD47^-/- mice or CD36^-/- animals, supporting a role for both CD47 and CD36 in mediating this effect. Consistent with this, DKO osteoclasts had impaired resorptive activity when analyzed in vitro Inhibition of nitric oxide (NO) signaling is known to promote osteoclastogenesis, and TSP-1 suppresses NO production and signaling. An anti-TSP-1 antibody increased NO production in osteoclasts, and the inhibitory effect of anti-TSP-1 on osteoclastogenesis was completely rescued by l-nitroarginine methyl ester (l-NAME), a competitive NO synthase inhibitor. Supportive of an important role for CD36 in mediating the pro-osteoclastogenic effects of TSP-1, engaging CD36 with a synthetic agonist, p907, suppressed NO production in anti-TSP-1-treated cultures, allowing osteoclast maturation to occur. These results establish that CD36 and CD47 both participate in mediating the actions of TSP-1 in osteoclasts and establish a physiologically relevant cross-talk in bone tissue between these two molecules.

Molecular profile of inflammatory and megakaryocytic factors in pediatric myelodysplastic syndrome with acute myelofibrosis

Pediatric fibrotic myelodysplastic syndromes (ped-MDS-MF) and pediatric primary myelofibrosis (ped-PMF) are rare, and the molecular changes which mediate fibrosis have never been investigated. Histology and gene expression profile of 119 fibrosis/angiogenesis/inflammation/megakaryopoiesis-related factors in bone marrow biopsies were performed (two ped-MDS-MF and one ped-PMF). In one progressive ped-MDS, comparison of MF grade 0 (no myelofibrosis) and MF grade 2 (dense network of reticulin fibres) after 4 months showed that expression of fibrosis-related transcripts increased and dysplastic megakaryocytes formed a dense net of CD42b⁺ proplatelets. These changes were not observed in another ped-MDS-MF, whereas ped-PMF showed a similar proplatelet pattern. These findings indicate that fibrotic changes in ped-MDS may involve proplatelet-related and unrelated pathways.

Quantification of the Extracellular Matrix Molecule Thrombospondin 1 and Its Pericellular Association in the Brain Using a Semiautomated Computerized Approach

The structure and functions of the extracellular matrix (ECM), its spatial distribution and pericellular association of ECM molecules remain poorly understood. Colocalization of ECM molecules with cell phenotypes through immunohistochemistry can provide crucial insights into their juxtacrine signaling role as well as their structural relevance to tissue architecture. As manual quantification of images introduces intra- and inter-user bias and is cumbersome for high-throughput approaches, we implemented an automated high-throughput method to quantify the spatial distribution and cellular association of one ECM molecule, thrombospondin 1 (TSP1) with two major cell phenotypes, neurons, and astrocytes. The distribution of TSP1 was homogeneous throughout the striatum and cortex along the anterior-posterior axis. TSP1 occupied 8.85% of the striatum and 7.40% in the cortex. TSP1 also associated with 94.58% and 88.45% of neurons in the striatum and cortex. The association with astrocytes was significantly lower at 47.55% and 28.09%. These findings highlight the key role that TSP1 plays in neuron physiology in a healthy brain, but also highlights key regional difference in astrocytes secreting ECM molecules. The semiautomated approach implemented here will improve the throughput and reliability of measuring the distribution and cellular colocalization of ECM molecules.

Distinct domains in the matricellular protein Lonely heart are crucial for cardiac extracellular matrix formation and heart function in Drosophila

The biomechanical properties of extracellular matrices (ECMs) are critical to many biological processes, including cell-cell communication and cell migration and function. The correct balance between stiffness and elasticity is essential to the function of numerous tissues, including blood vessels and the lymphatic system, and depends on ECM constituents (the "matrisome") and on their level of interconnection. However, despite its physiological relevance, the matrisome composition and organization remain poorly understood. Previously, we reported that the ADAMTS-like protein Lonely heart (Loh) is critical for recruiting the type IV collagen-like protein Pericardin to the cardiac ECM. Here, we utilized Drosophila as a simple and genetically amenable invertebrate model for studying Loh-mediated recruitment of tissue-specific ECM components such as Pericardin to the ECM. We focused on the functional relevance of distinct Loh domains to protein localization and Pericardin recruitment. Analysis of Loh deletion constructs revealed that one thrombospondin type 1 repeat (TSR1-1), which has an embedded WXXW motif, is critical for anchoring Loh to the ECM. Two other thrombospondin repeats, TSR1-2 and TSR1-4, the latter containing a CXXTCXXG motif, appeared to be dispensable for tethering Loh to the ECM but were crucial for proper interaction with and recruitment of Pericardin. Moreover, our results also suggested that Pericardin in the cardiac ECM primarily ensures the structural integrity of the heart, rather than increasing tissue flexibility. In conclusion, our work provides new insights into the roles of thrombospondin type 1 repeats and advances our understanding of cardiac ECM assembly and function.

Thrombospondin immune regulation and the kidney

Most therapeutic attempts to prevent the progression of kidney diseases have been based on interventions to inhibit the production of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β). Thrombospondins (TSPs) play an important role in activating TGF-β. In the healthy kidney, two TSPs are expressed, TSP1 and TSP2, which exert contrasting effects. While TSP1 is a major activator of TGF-β in renal cells and exerts pro-inflammatory effects both in vitro and in vivo, TSP2 lacks the ability for TGF-β activation but regulates matrix remodeling and inflammation in experimental kidney disease. The effects of TSPs in the kidney have been mostly investigated by using the murine model of unilateral ureteral obstruction. In this model, TSP1 expression is increased along with the development of interstitial fibrosis and TGF-β. Relief of the obstruction gradually improves renal function and decreases the expression in TSP1 and TGF-β1. Several inhibitors of TSP1 prevented progressive interstitial fibrosis in murine models of ureteral obstruction, suggesting that control of latent TGF-β activation by inhibiting TSP1 might represent a novel potential target for preventing renal interstitial fibrosis. However, further studies are needed to assess whether TSP1-mediated TGF-β activation can be safely used in humans. In fact, TSPs normally act to suppress tumors in vivo. Moreover, TGF-β can exert a pivotal function in the immune system, as it may induce the production of regulatory T cells and suppress B cell responses. Knowledge of the molecular mechanisms involved in TGF-β regulation may help in finding effective treatments of tissue fibrosis, cancer and autoimmune disease.

Protein Biomarkers for Early Detection of Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma: Progress and Challenges

Approximately 75% of patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma are diagnosed with advanced cancer, which cannot be safely resected. The most commonly used biomarker CA19-9 has inadequate sensitivity and specificity for early detection, which we define as Stage I/II cancers. Therefore, progress in next-generation biomarkers is greatly needed. Recent reports have validated a number of biomarkers, including combination assays of proteins and DNA mutations; however, the history of translating promising biomarkers to clinical utility suggests that several major hurdles require careful consideration by the medical community. The first set of challenges involves nominating and verifying biomarkers. Candidate biomarkers need to discriminate disease from benign controls with high sensitivity and specificity for an intended use, which we describe as a two-tiered strategy of identifying and screening high-risk patients. Community-wide efforts to share samples, data, and analysis methods have been beneficial and progress meeting this challenge has been achieved. The second set of challenges is assay optimization and validating biomarkers. After initial candidate validation, assays need to be refined into accurate, cost-effective, highly reproducible, and multiplexed targeted panels and then validated in large cohorts. To move the most promising candidates forward, ideally, biomarker panels, head-to-head comparisons, meta-analysis, and assessment in independent data sets might mitigate risk of failure. Much more investment is needed to overcome these challenges. The third challenge is achieving clinical translation. To moonshot an early detection test to the clinic requires a large clinical trial and organizational, regulatory, and entrepreneurial know-how. Additional factors, such as imaging technologies, will likely need to improve concomitant with molecular biomarker development. The magnitude of the clinical translational challenge is uncertain, but interdisciplinary cooperation within the PDAC community is poised to confront it.

CYP1B1: A key regulator of redox homeostasis

CYP1B1 is a member of the CYP1 subfamily of CYP superfamily of enzymes, which contains three members, CYP1A1, CYP1A2, and CYP1B1. CYP1B1 is expressed in both adult and fetal human extrahepatic tissues, including the parenchymal and stromal cells of most organs. Mutations in the CYP1B1 gene are linked to the development of primary congenital glaucoma in humans. However, the underlying mechanisms remain unknown. Using Cyp1b1-deficient mice, we showed that CYP1B1 is constitutively expressed in retinal vascular cells with a significant role in retinal neovascularization during oxygen-induced ischemic retinopathy. We also showed CYP1B1 is constitutively expressed in trabecular meshwork (TM) cells and its expression plays a significant role in the normal development and function of the TM tissue. We have observed that germline deletion of Cyp1b1 is associated with increased oxidative stress in the retinal vascular and TM cells in culture, and retinal and TM tissue in vivo. We showed increased oxidative stress was responsible for altered production of the extracellular matrix proteins and had a significant impact on cellular integrity and function of these tissues. Collectively, our studies have established an important role for CYP1B1 expression in modulation of tissue integrity and function through the regulation of cellular redox homeostasis and extracellular microenvironment.

Localization of thrombospondin-1 and its receptor CD36 in the ovary of the ostrich (Struthio camelus)

Angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels from pre-existing vasculature, plays a decisive role for the rapid growth of avian follicles. Compared to mammals, few data on the angiogenesis in the avian ovary are available. However, whereas several pro-angiogenic factors in the avian ovary have been recently studied in detail, little information is available on the localization of anti-angiogenic factors. The aim of this study was to determine the localization and possible function of the anti-angiogenic factor thrombospondin-1 (TSP-1) and its receptor CD36 in the ovary of the ostrich using immunohistochemistry and to correlate the results with ultrastructural data. Whereas the oocytes and granulosa cells of all follicular stages were negative for TSP-1, myofibroblasts of the theca externa and smooth muscle cells of blood vessels showed distinct reactions. A distinctly different staining pattern was observed for CD36. The oocytes were CD36 negative. No immunostaining for CD36 could be observed neither in the granulosa cells nor in the adjacent theca interna of vitellogenic follicles. In the theca externa, blood vessels protruding towards the oocyte showed CD36-positive endothelial cells. In conclusion, a fine balance between angiogenic and anti-angiogenic processes assures that a dense net of blood vessels develops during the rapid growth of a selected follicle. Anti-angiogenic molecules, such as TSP-1 and its receptor CD36 may, after the oocyte has reached its final size, inhibit further angiogenesis and limit the transport of yolk material to the mature oocyte. By this mechanism, the growth of the megalecithal oocyte during folliculogenesis may cease.

Thrombospondin-1 Partly Mediates the Cartilage Protective Effect of Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Osteoarthritis

Objective

Assuming that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) respond to the osteoarthritic joint environment to exert a chondroprotective effect, we aimed at investigating the molecular response setup by MSCs after priming by osteoarthritic chondrocytes in cocultures.

Methods

We used primary human osteoarthritic chondrocytes and adipose stem cells (ASCs) in mono- and cocultures and performed a high-throughput secretome analysis. Among secreted proteins differentially induced in cocultures, we identified thrombospondin-1 (THBS1) as a potential candidate that could be involved in the chondroprotective effect of ASCs.

Results

Secretome analysis revealed significant induction of THBS1 in ASCs/chondrocytes cocultures at mRNA and protein levels. We showed that THBS1 was upregulated at late stages of MSC differentiation toward chondrocytes and that recombinant THBS1 (rTHBS1) exerted a prochondrogenic effect on MSC indicating a role of THBS1 during chondrogenesis. However, compared to control ASCs, siTHBS1-transfected ASCs did not decrease the expression of hypertrophic and inflammatory markers in osteoarthritic chondrocytes, suggesting that THBS1 was not involved in the reversion of osteoarthritic phenotype. Nevertheless, downregulation of THBS1 in ASCs reduced their immunosuppressive activity, which was consistent with the anti-inflammatory role of rTHBS1 on T lymphocytes. THBS1 function was then evaluated in the collagenase-induced OA model by comparing siTHBS1-transfected and control ASCs. The protective effect of ASCs evaluated by histological and histomorphological analysis of cartilage and bone was not seen with siTHBS1-transfected ASCs.

Conclusion

Our data suggest that THBS1 did not exert a direct protective effect on chondrocytes but might reduce inflammation, subsequently explaining the therapeutic effect of ASCs in OA.

Two Classes of Secreted Synaptic Organizers in the Central Nervous System

Research in the last two decades has identified many synaptic organizers in the central nervous system that directly regulate the assembly of pre- and/or postsynaptic molecules, such as synaptic vesicles, active zone proteins, and neurotransmitter receptors. They are classified into secreted factors and cell adhesion molecules, such as neurexins and neuroligins. Certain secreted factors are termed extracellular scaffolding proteins (ESPs) because they are components of the synaptic extracellular matrix and serve as a scaffold at the synaptic cleft. These include Lgi1, Cbln1, neuronal pentraxins, Hevin, thrombospondins, and glypicans. Diffusible secreted factors, such as Wnts, fibroblast growth factors, and semaphorins, tend to act from a distance. In contrast, ESPs remain at the synaptic cleft and often help synaptic adhesion and/or accumulation of postsynaptic receptors. Many fundamental questions remain about when, how, and why various synaptic organizers establish and modify the vast numbers of connections during development and throughout life.

Thrombospondin-1 (TSP-1), a new bone morphogenetic protein-2 and -4 (BMP-2/4) antagonist identified in pituitary cells

Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) regulate diverse cellular responses during embryogenesis and in adulthood including cell differentiation, proliferation, and death in various tissues. In the adult pituitary, BMPs participate in the control of hormone secretion and cell proliferation, suggesting a potential endocrine/paracrine role for BMPs, but some of the mechanisms are unclear. Here, using a bioactivity test based on embryonic cells (C3H10T1/2) transfected with a BMP-responsive element, we sought to determine whether pituitary cells secrete BMPs or BMP antagonists. Interestingly, we found that pituitary-conditioned medium contains a factor that inhibits action of BMP-2 and -4. Combining surface plasmon resonance and high-resolution mass spectrometry helped pinpoint this factor as thrombospondin-1 (TSP-1). Surface plasmon resonance and co-immunoprecipitation confirmed that recombinant human TSP-1 can bind BMP-2 and -4 and antagonize their effects on C3H10T1/2 cells. Moreover, TSP-1 inhibited the action of serum BMPs. We also report that the von Willebrand type C domain of TSP-1 is likely responsible for this BMP-2/4-binding activity, an assertion based on sequence similarity that TSP-1 shares with the von Willebrand type C domain of Crossveinless 2 (CV-2), a BMP antagonist and member of the chordin family. In summary, we identified for the first time TSP-1 as a BMP-2/-4 antagonist and presented a structural basis for the physical interaction between TSP-1 and BMP-4. We propose that TSP-1 could regulate bioavailability of BMPs, either produced locally or reaching the pituitary via blood circulation. In conclusion, our findings provide new insights into the involvement of TSP-1 in the BMP-2/-4 mechanisms of action.

Pancreatic β-cell protection from inflammatory stress by the endoplasmic reticulum proteins thrombospondin 1 and mesencephalic astrocyte-derived neutrotrophic factor (MANF)

Cytokine-induced endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress is one of the molecular mechanisms underlying pancreatic β-cell demise in type 1 diabetes. Thrombospondin 1 (THBS1) was recently shown to promote β-cell survival during lipotoxic stress. Here we show that ER-localized THBS1 is cytoprotective to rat, mouse, and human β-cells exposed to cytokines or thapsigargin-induced ER stress. THBS1 confers cytoprotection by maintaining expression of mesencephalic astrocyte-derived neutrotrophic factor (MANF) in β-cells and thereby prevents the BH3-only protein BIM (BCL2-interacting mediator of cell death)-dependent triggering of the mitochondrial pathway of apoptosis. Prolonged exposure of β-cells to cytokines or thapsigargin leads to THBS1 and MANF degradation and loss of this prosurvival mechanism. Approaches that sustain intracellular THBS1 and MANF expression in β-cells should be explored as a cytoprotective strategy in type 1 diabetes.

PLA2R and THSD7A: Disparate Paths to the Same Disease?

The phospholipase A2 receptor (PLA2R) and thrombospondin type-1 domain-containing 7A (THSD7A) are the two major autoantigens in primary membranous nephropathy (MN), and define two molecular subclasses of this disease. Both proteins are large transmembrane glycoproteins expressed by the podocyte, and both induce IgG4-predominant humoral immune responses that produce circulating autoantibodies that can be used clinically for diagnostic and monitoring purposes. The biologic roles of these proteins remain speculative, although several features of THSD7A suggest a role in adhesion. PLA2R-associated MN was initially found to associate with risk alleles within HLA-DQA1, but subsequent studies have shifted the focus to the HLA-DRB locus. Three distinct humoral epitope-containing regions have been defined within the extracellular portion of PLA2R, and it appears that the number of targeted epitopes may determine disease severity. Although similar information is not yet available for THSD7A-associated MN, this form of MN may have a unique association with malignancy. Finally, it appears likely that other autoantigens in primary MN exist. Although protocols similar to those that identified PLA2R and THSD7A may be successful in the identification of novel antigenic targets in MN, newer techniques such as laser-capture mass spectrometry or protein arrays may be helpful as well.

Astrocyte-mediated synapse remodeling in the pathological brain

Astrocytes, a major type of glia, reciprocally influence synaptic transmission and connectivity, forming the "tripartite synapses". Astrocytic metabotropic glutamate receptor (mGluR)-mediated Ca²⁺ waves and release of gliotransmitters or synaptogenic molecules mediate this neuron-glia interaction in the developing brain, but this signaling has been challenged for adult brain. However, cumulative evidence has suggested that mature astrocytes exhibit re-awakening of such immature phenotype in the pathological adult brain. This phenotypic change in astrocytes in response to injury may induce neural circuit and synapse plasticity. In this review article, we summarize astrocyte-mediated synapse remodeling during physiological development, discuss re-emergence of immature astrocytic signaling in adult pathological brain, and finally highlight its contribution to significant modification of synaptic connections correlating with functional progress of brain pathology.