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Zhou Z, Liu J, Xiong T, Liu Y, Tuan RS, Li ZA. Engineering Innervated Musculoskeletal Tissues for Regenerative Orthopedics and Disease Modeling. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2310614. [PMID: 38200684 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202310614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2023] [Revised: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Musculoskeletal (MSK) disorders significantly burden patients and society, resulting in high healthcare costs and productivity loss. These disorders are the leading cause of physical disability, and their prevalence is expected to increase as sedentary lifestyles become common and the global population of the elderly increases. Proper innervation is critical to maintaining MSK function, and nerve damage or dysfunction underlies various MSK disorders, underscoring the potential of restoring nerve function in MSK disorder treatment. However, most MSK tissue engineering strategies have overlooked the significance of innervation. This review first expounds upon innervation in the MSK system and its importance in maintaining MSK homeostasis and functions. This will be followed by strategies for engineering MSK tissues that induce post-implantation in situ innervation or are pre-innervated. Subsequently, research progress in modeling MSK disorders using innervated MSK organoids and organs-on-chips (OoCs) is analyzed. Finally, the future development of engineering innervated MSK tissues to treat MSK disorders and recapitulate disease mechanisms is discussed. This review provides valuable insights into the underlying principles, engineering methods, and applications of innervated MSK tissues, paving the way for the development of targeted, efficacious therapies for various MSK conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhilong Zhou
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China
| | - Jun Liu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China
- Center for Neuromusculoskeletal Restorative Medicine, Hong Kong Science Park, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China
| | - Tiandi Xiong
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China
- Center for Neuromusculoskeletal Restorative Medicine, Hong Kong Science Park, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China
| | - Yuwei Liu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China
- Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518000, P. R. China
| | - Rocky S Tuan
- Center for Neuromusculoskeletal Restorative Medicine, Hong Kong Science Park, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China
- Institute for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China
| | - Zhong Alan Li
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China
- Center for Neuromusculoskeletal Restorative Medicine, Hong Kong Science Park, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China
- Shenzhen Research Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518057, P. R. China
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Xiong W, Han Z, Ding S, Wang H, Du Y, Cui W, Zhang M. In Situ Remodeling of Efferocytosis via Lesion-Localized Microspheres to Reverse Cartilage Senescence. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2400345. [PMID: 38477444 PMCID: PMC11109622 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202400345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
Efferocytosis, an intrinsic regulatory mechanism to eliminate apoptotic cells, will be suppressed due to the delayed apoptosis process in aging-related diseases, such as osteoarthritis (OA). In this study, cartilage lesion-localized hydrogel microspheres are developed to remodel the in situ efferocytosis to reverse cartilage senescence and recruit endogenous stem cells to accelerate cartilage repair. Specifically, aldehyde- and methacrylic anhydride (MA)-modified hyaluronic acid hydrogel microspheres (AHM), loaded with pro-apoptotic liposomes (liposomes encapsulating ABT263, A-Lipo) and PDGF-BB, namely A-Lipo/PAHM, are prepared by microfluidic and photo-cross-linking techniques. By a degraded porcine cartilage explant OA model, the in situ cartilage lesion location experiment illustrated that aldehyde-functionalized microspheres promote affinity for degraded cartilage. In vitro data showed that A-Lipo induced apoptosis of senescent chondrocytes (Sn-chondrocytes), which can then be phagocytosed by the efferocytosis of macrophages, and remodeling efferocytosis facilitated the protection of normal chondrocytes and maintained the chondrogenic differentiation capacity of MSCs. In vivo experiments confirmed that hydrogel microspheres localized to cartilage lesion reversed cartilage senescence and promoted cartilage repair in OA. It is believed this in situ efferocytosis remodeling strategy can be of great significance for tissue regeneration in aging-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Xiong
- Department of Foot and Ankle SurgeryBeijing Tongren HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijing100730P. R. China
- Department of OrthopaedicsShanghai Key Laboratory for Prevention and Treatment of Bone and Joint DiseasesShanghai Institute of Traumatology and OrthopaedicsRuijin HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine197 Ruijin 2nd RoadShanghai200025P. R. China
| | - Zeyu Han
- Department of Foot and Ankle SurgeryBeijing Tongren HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijing100730P. R. China
- Department of OrthopaedicsShanghai Key Laboratory for Prevention and Treatment of Bone and Joint DiseasesShanghai Institute of Traumatology and OrthopaedicsRuijin HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine197 Ruijin 2nd RoadShanghai200025P. R. China
| | - Sheng‐Long Ding
- Department of Foot and Ankle SurgeryBeijing Tongren HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijing100730P. R. China
| | - Haoran Wang
- Department of OrthopaedicsShanghai Key Laboratory for Prevention and Treatment of Bone and Joint DiseasesShanghai Institute of Traumatology and OrthopaedicsRuijin HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine197 Ruijin 2nd RoadShanghai200025P. R. China
| | - Yawei Du
- Department of OrthopaedicsShanghai Key Laboratory for Prevention and Treatment of Bone and Joint DiseasesShanghai Institute of Traumatology and OrthopaedicsRuijin HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine197 Ruijin 2nd RoadShanghai200025P. R. China
| | - Wenguo Cui
- Department of OrthopaedicsShanghai Key Laboratory for Prevention and Treatment of Bone and Joint DiseasesShanghai Institute of Traumatology and OrthopaedicsRuijin HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine197 Ruijin 2nd RoadShanghai200025P. R. China
| | - Ming‐Zhu Zhang
- Department of Foot and Ankle SurgeryBeijing Tongren HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijing100730P. R. China
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Li Q, Liu H, Yin G, Xie Q. Efferocytosis: Current status and future prospects in the treatment of autoimmune diseases. Heliyon 2024; 10:e28399. [PMID: 38596091 PMCID: PMC11002059 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e28399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2024] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Billions of apoptotic cells are swiftly removed from the human body daily. This clearance process is regulated by efferocytosis, an active anti-inflammatory process during which phagocytes engulf and remove apoptotic cells. However, impaired clearance of apoptotic cells is associated with the development of various autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and inflammatory bowel disease. In this review, we conducted a comprehensive search of relevant studies published from January 1, 2000, to the present, focusing on efferocytosis, autoimmune disease pathogenesis, regulatory mechanisms governing efferocytosis, and potential treatments targeting this process. Our review highlights the key molecules involved in different stages of efferocytosis-namely, the "find me," "eat me," and "engulf and digest" phases-while elucidating their relevance to autoimmune disease pathology. Furthermore, we explore the therapeutic potential of modulating efferocytosis to restore immune homeostasis and mitigate autoimmune responses. By providing theoretical underpinnings for the targeting of efferocytosis in the treatment of autoimmune diseases, this review contributes to the advancement of therapeutic strategies in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qianwei Li
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China
| | - Huan Liu
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China
| | - Geng Yin
- Department of General Practice, General Practice Medical Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China
| | - Qibing Xie
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China
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Li PL, Chen DF, Li XT, Hao RC, Zhao ZD, Li ZL, Yin BF, Tang J, Luo YW, Wu CT, Nie JJ, Zhu H. Microgel-based carriers enhance skeletal stem cell reprogramming towards immunomodulatory phenotype in osteoarthritic therapy. Bioact Mater 2024; 34:204-220. [PMID: 38235309 PMCID: PMC10792171 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2023.12.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Skeletal stem cells (SSC) have gained attentions as candidates for the treatment of osteoarthritis due to their osteochondrogenic capacity. However, the immunomodulatory properties of SSC, especially under delivery operations, have been largely ignored. In the study, we found that Pdpn+ and Grem1+ SSC subpopulations owned immunoregulatory potential, and the single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) data suggested that the mechanical activation of microgel carriers on SSC induced the generation of Pdpn+Grem1+Ptgs2+ SSC subpopulation, which was potent at suppressing macrophage inflammation. The microgel carriers promoted the YAP nuclear translocation, and the activated YAP protein was necessary for the increased expression of Ptgs2 and PGE2 in microgels-delivered SSC, which further suppressed the expression of TNF-ɑ, IL-1β and promoted the expression of IL-10 in macrophages. SSC delivered with microgels yielded better preventive effects on articular lesions and macrophage activation in osteoarthritic rats than SSC without microgels. Chemically blocking the YAP and Ptgs2 in microgels-delivered SSC partially abolished the enhanced protection on articular tissues and suppression on osteoarthritic macrophages. Moreover, microgel carriers significantly prolonged SSC retention time in vivo without increasing SSC implanting into osteoarthritic joints. Together, our study demonstrated that microgel carriers enhanced SSC reprogramming towards immunomodulatory phenotype to regulate macrophage phenotype transformation for effectively osteoarthritic therapy by promoting YAP protein translocation into nucleus. The study not only complement and perfect the immunological mechanisms of SSC-based therapy at the single-cell level, but also provide new insight for microgel carriers in stem cell-based therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei-Lin Li
- Department of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Road Taiping 27, Beijing, 100850, PR China
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Radiobiology, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, 100850, PR China
| | - Da-Fu Chen
- Laboratory of Bone Tissue Engineering, Beijing Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, National Center for Orthopaedics, Beijing Research Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedics, Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Road Xinjiekou 31, Beijing, 100035, PR China
| | - Xiao-Tong Li
- Department of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Road Taiping 27, Beijing, 100850, PR China
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Radiobiology, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, 100850, PR China
| | - Rui-Cong Hao
- Department of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Road Taiping 27, Beijing, 100850, PR China
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Radiobiology, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, 100850, PR China
| | - Zhi-Dong Zhao
- Department of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Road Taiping 27, Beijing, 100850, PR China
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Radiobiology, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, 100850, PR China
- People's Liberation Army General Hospital, Road Fuxing 28, Beijing, 100853, PR China
| | - Zhi-Ling Li
- Department of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Road Taiping 27, Beijing, 100850, PR China
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Radiobiology, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, 100850, PR China
| | - Bo-Feng Yin
- Department of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Road Taiping 27, Beijing, 100850, PR China
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Radiobiology, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, 100850, PR China
| | - Jie Tang
- Department of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Road Taiping 27, Beijing, 100850, PR China
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Radiobiology, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, 100850, PR China
| | - Yu-Wen Luo
- Laboratory of Bone Tissue Engineering, Beijing Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, National Center for Orthopaedics, Beijing Research Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedics, Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Road Xinjiekou 31, Beijing, 100035, PR China
| | - Chu-Tse Wu
- Department of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Road Taiping 27, Beijing, 100850, PR China
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Radiobiology, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, 100850, PR China
| | - Jing-Jun Nie
- Laboratory of Bone Tissue Engineering, Beijing Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, National Center for Orthopaedics, Beijing Research Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedics, Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Road Xinjiekou 31, Beijing, 100035, PR China
| | - Heng Zhu
- Department of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Road Taiping 27, Beijing, 100850, PR China
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Radiobiology, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, 100850, PR China
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Guan X, Wang Y, Li W, Mu W, Tang Y, Wang M, Seyam A, Yang Y, Pan L, Hou T. The Role of Macrophage Efferocytosis in the Pathogenesis of Apical Periodontitis. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:3854. [PMID: 38612664 PMCID: PMC11011522 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25073854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2024] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Macrophages (Mφs) play a crucial role in the homeostasis of the periapical immune micro-environment caused by bacterial infection. Mφ efferocytosis has been demonstrated to promote the resolution of multiple infected diseases via accelerating Mφ polarization into M2 type. However, the Mφ efferocytosis-apical periodontitis (AP) relationship has not been elucidated yet. This study aimed to explore the role of Mφ efferocytosis in the pathogenesis of AP. Clinical specimens were collected to determine the involvement of Mφ efferocytosis in the periapical region via immunohistochemical and immunofluorescence staining. For a further understanding of the moderator effect of Mφ efferocytosis in the pathogenesis of AP, both an in vitro AP model and in vivo AP model were treated with ARA290, a Mφ efferocytosis agonist. Histological staining, micro-ct, flow cytometry, RT-PCR and Western blot analysis were performed to detect the inflammatory status, alveolar bone loss and related markers in AP models. The data showed that Mφ efferocytosis is observed in the periapical tissues and enhancing the Mφ efferocytosis ability could effectively promote AP resolution via facilitating M2 Mφ polarization. Collectively, our study demonstrates the functional importance of Mφ efferocytosis in AP pathology and highlights that accelerating Mφ efferocytosis via ARA290 could serve as an adjuvant therapeutic strategy for AP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyue Guan
- Key Laboratory of Shaanxi Province for Craniofacial Precision Medicine Research, College of Stomatology, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710004, China (A.S.)
- Clinical Research Center of Shaanxi Province for Dental and Maxillofacial Diseases, College of Stomatology, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710004, China
- Department of Cariology and Endodontics, College of Stomatology, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710004, China
| | - Yuting Wang
- Key Laboratory of Shaanxi Province for Craniofacial Precision Medicine Research, College of Stomatology, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710004, China (A.S.)
- Clinical Research Center of Shaanxi Province for Dental and Maxillofacial Diseases, College of Stomatology, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710004, China
- Department of Cariology and Endodontics, College of Stomatology, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710004, China
| | - Wenlan Li
- Key Laboratory of Shaanxi Province for Craniofacial Precision Medicine Research, College of Stomatology, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710004, China (A.S.)
- Clinical Research Center of Shaanxi Province for Dental and Maxillofacial Diseases, College of Stomatology, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710004, China
- Department of Cariology and Endodontics, College of Stomatology, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710004, China
| | - Wenli Mu
- Key Laboratory of Shaanxi Province for Craniofacial Precision Medicine Research, College of Stomatology, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710004, China (A.S.)
- Clinical Research Center of Shaanxi Province for Dental and Maxillofacial Diseases, College of Stomatology, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710004, China
- Department of Cariology and Endodontics, College of Stomatology, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710004, China
| | - Yifei Tang
- Key Laboratory of Shaanxi Province for Craniofacial Precision Medicine Research, College of Stomatology, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710004, China (A.S.)
- Clinical Research Center of Shaanxi Province for Dental and Maxillofacial Diseases, College of Stomatology, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710004, China
- Department of Cariology and Endodontics, College of Stomatology, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710004, China
| | - Mingfei Wang
- Key Laboratory of Shaanxi Province for Craniofacial Precision Medicine Research, College of Stomatology, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710004, China (A.S.)
- Clinical Research Center of Shaanxi Province for Dental and Maxillofacial Diseases, College of Stomatology, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710004, China
- Department of Cariology and Endodontics, College of Stomatology, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710004, China
| | - Abdelrahman Seyam
- Key Laboratory of Shaanxi Province for Craniofacial Precision Medicine Research, College of Stomatology, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710004, China (A.S.)
- Clinical Research Center of Shaanxi Province for Dental and Maxillofacial Diseases, College of Stomatology, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710004, China
- Department of Cariology and Endodontics, College of Stomatology, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710004, China
| | - Yao Yang
- Key Laboratory of Shaanxi Province for Craniofacial Precision Medicine Research, College of Stomatology, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710004, China (A.S.)
- Clinical Research Center of Shaanxi Province for Dental and Maxillofacial Diseases, College of Stomatology, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710004, China
- Department of Cariology and Endodontics, College of Stomatology, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710004, China
| | - Lifei Pan
- Key Laboratory of Shaanxi Province for Craniofacial Precision Medicine Research, College of Stomatology, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710004, China (A.S.)
- Clinical Research Center of Shaanxi Province for Dental and Maxillofacial Diseases, College of Stomatology, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710004, China
- Department of Cariology and Endodontics, College of Stomatology, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710004, China
| | - Tiezhou Hou
- Key Laboratory of Shaanxi Province for Craniofacial Precision Medicine Research, College of Stomatology, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710004, China (A.S.)
- Clinical Research Center of Shaanxi Province for Dental and Maxillofacial Diseases, College of Stomatology, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710004, China
- Department of Cariology and Endodontics, College of Stomatology, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710004, China
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Blackler G, Lai-Zhao Y, Klapak J, Philpott HT, Pitchers KK, Maher AR, Fiset B, Walsh LA, Gillies ER, Appleton CT. Targeting STAT6-mediated synovial macrophage activation improves pain in experimental knee osteoarthritis. Arthritis Res Ther 2024; 26:73. [PMID: 38509602 PMCID: PMC10953260 DOI: 10.1186/s13075-024-03309-6] [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: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pain from osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the top causes of disability worldwide, but effective treatment is lacking. Nociceptive factors are released by activated synovial macrophages in OA, but depletion of synovial macrophages paradoxically worsens inflammation and tissue damage in previous studies. Rather than depleting macrophages, we hypothesized that inhibiting macrophage activation may improve pain without increasing tissue damage. We aimed to identify key mechanisms mediating synovial macrophage activation and test the role of STAT signaling in macrophages on pain outcomes in experimental knee OA. METHODS We induced experimental knee OA in rats via knee destabilization surgery, and performed RNA sequencing analysis on sorted synovial tissue macrophages to identify macrophage activation mechanisms. Liposomes laden with STAT1 or STAT6 inhibitors, vehicle (control), or clodronate (depletion control) were delivered selectively to synovial macrophages via serial intra-articular injections up to 12 weeks after OA induction. Treatment effects on knee and hindpaw mechanical pain sensitivity were measured during OA development, along with synovitis, cartilage damage, and synovial macrophage infiltration using histopathology and immunofluorescence. Lastly, crosstalk between drug-treated synovial tissue and articular chondrocytes was assessed in co-culture. RESULTS The majority of pathways identified by transcriptomic analyses in OA synovial macrophages involve STAT signaling. As expected, macrophage depletion reduced pain, but increased synovial tissue fibrosis and vascularization. In contrast, STAT6 inhibition in macrophages led to marked, sustained improvements in mechanical pain sensitivity and synovial inflammation without worsening synovial or cartilage pathology. During co-culture, STAT6 inhibitor-treated synovial tissue had minimal effects on healthy chondrocyte gene expression, whereas STAT1 inhibitor-treated synovium induced changes in numerous cartilage turnover-related genes. CONCLUSION These results suggest that STAT signaling is a major mediator of synovial macrophage activation in experimental knee OA. STAT6 may be a key mechanism mediating the release of nociceptive factors from macrophages and the development of mechanical pain sensitivity. Whereas therapeutic depletion of macrophages paradoxically increases inflammation and fibrosis, blocking STAT6-mediated synovial macrophage activation may be a novel strategy for OA-pain management without accelerating tissue damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Garth Blackler
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Western University, London, ON, N6A 5B5, Canada
| | - Yue Lai-Zhao
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Western University, London, ON, N6A 5B5, Canada
- Bone and Joint Institute, Western University, London, ON, N6A 5B5, Canada
| | - Joseph Klapak
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Western University, London, ON, N6A 5B5, Canada
| | - Holly T Philpott
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Western University, London, ON, N6A 5B5, Canada
- Bone and Joint Institute, Western University, London, ON, N6A 5B5, Canada
| | - Kyle K Pitchers
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Western University, London, ON, N6A 5B5, Canada
| | - Andrew R Maher
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Western University, London, ON, N6A 5B5, Canada
| | - Benoit Fiset
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Research Centre, McGill University, Montreal, QC, H3A 1A3, Canada
| | - Logan A Walsh
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Research Centre, McGill University, Montreal, QC, H3A 1A3, Canada
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, QC, H3A 0C7, Canada
| | - Elizabeth R Gillies
- Department of Chemistry, Western University, London, ON, N6A 5B5, Canada
- Department of Chemical and Biochemical Engineering, Western University, London, ON, N6A 5B5, Canada
| | - C Thomas Appleton
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Western University, London, ON, N6A 5B5, Canada.
- Bone and Joint Institute, Western University, London, ON, N6A 5B5, Canada.
- Department of Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, N6A 5C1, Canada.
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7
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Zheng S, Li Y, Yin L, Lu M. Identification of sulfur metabolism-related gene signature in osteoarthritis and TM9SF2's sustenance effect on M2 macrophages' phagocytic activity. J Orthop Surg Res 2024; 19:62. [PMID: 38218914 PMCID: PMC10787471 DOI: 10.1186/s13018-023-04384-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic and low-grade inflammatory disease associated with metabolism disorder and multiple cell death types in the synovial tissues. Sulfur metabolism has not been studied in OA. METHODS First, we calculated the single sample gene set enrichment analysis score of sulfur metabolism-associated annotations (i.e., cysteine metabolism process, regulation of sulfur metabolism process, and disulfidptosis) between healthy and synovial samples from patients with OA. Sulfur metabolism-related differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were analyzed in OA. Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator COX regression were used to identify the sulfur metabolism-associated gene signature for diagnosing OA. Correlation and immune cell deconvolution analyses were used to explore the correlated functions and cell specificity of the signature gene, TM9SF2. TM9SF2's effect on the phagocytosis of macrophages M2 was analyzed by coculturing macrophages with IgG-coated beads or apoptotic Jurkat cells. RESULTS A diagnostic six gene signature (i.e., MTHFD1, PDK4, TM9SF2, POU4F1, HOXA2, NCKAP1) was identified based on the ten DEGs, validated using GSE12021 and GSE1919 datasets. TM9SF2 was upregulated in the synovial tissues of OA at both mRNA and protein levels. The relationship between TM9SF2 and several functional annotations, such as antigen processing and presentation, lysosome, phagosome, Fcγ-mediated phagocytosis, and tyrosine metabolism, was identified. TM9SF2 and macrophages M2 were significantly correlated. After silencing TM9SF2 in THP-1-derived macrophages M2, a significantly reduced phagocytosis and attenuated activation of PLC-γ1 were observed. CONCLUSION A sulfur metabolism-associated six-gene signature for OA diagnosis was constructed and upregulation of the phagocytosis-associated gene, TM9SF2, was identified. The findings are expected to deepen our understanding of the molecular mechanism underlying OA development and be used as potential therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuang Zheng
- Department of Rheumatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No.218 Ji Xi Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China.
| | - Yetian Li
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No.218 Ji Xi Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Li Yin
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No.218 Ji Xi Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Ming Lu
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No.218 Ji Xi Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China.
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8
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Maerz T. Is synovitis inevitable after ACL injury? Osteoarthritis Cartilage 2023; 31:1531-1533. [PMID: 37597654 DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2023.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/21/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Tristan Maerz
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
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Knights AJ, Farrell EC, Ellis OM, Song MJ, Appleton CT, Maerz T. Synovial macrophage diversity and activation of M-CSF signaling in post-traumatic osteoarthritis. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.10.03.559514. [PMID: 37873464 PMCID: PMC10592932 DOI: 10.1101/2023.10.03.559514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
Objective Synovium is home to immune and stromal cell types that orchestrate inflammation following a joint injury; in particular, macrophages are central protagonists in this process. We sought to define the cellular and temporal dynamics of the synovial immune niche in a mouse model of post-traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA), and to identify stromal-immune crosstalk mechanisms that coordinate macrophage function and phenotype. Design We induced PTOA in mice using a non-invasive tibial compression model of anterior cruciate ligament rupture (ACLR). Single cell RNA-seq and flow cytometry were used to assess immune cell populations in healthy (Sham) and injured (7d and 28d post-ACLR) synovium. Characterization of synovial macrophage polarization states was performed, alongside computational modeling of macrophage differentiation, as well as implicated transcriptional regulators and stromal-immune communication axes. Results Immune cell types are broadly represented in healthy synovium, but experience drastic expansion and speciation in PTOA, most notably in the macrophage portion. We identified several polarization states of macrophages in synovium following joint injury, underpinned by distinct transcriptomic signatures, and regulated in part by stromal-derived macrophage colony-stimulating factor signaling. The transcription factors Pu.1, Cebpα, Cebpβ, and Jun were predicted to control differentiation of systemically derived monocytes into pro-inflammatory synovial macrophages. Conclusions We defined different synovial macrophage subpopulations present in healthy and injured mouse synovium. Nuanced characterization of the distinct functions, origins, and disease kinetics of macrophage subtypes in PTOA will be critical for targeting these highly versatile cells for therapeutic purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Easton C. Farrell
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Olivia M. Ellis
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Michelle J. Song
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - C. Thomas Appleton
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Western University, London ON, Canada
- Bone and Joint Institute, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Tristan Maerz
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine – Division of Rheumatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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Zhao W, Ma L, Deng D, Zhang T, Han L, Xu F, Huang S, Ding Y, Chen X. M2 macrophage polarization: a potential target in pain relief. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1243149. [PMID: 37705982 PMCID: PMC10497114 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1243149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Pain imposes a significant urden on patients, affecting them physically, psychologically, and economically. Despite numerous studies on the pathogenesis of pain, its clinical management remains suboptimal, leading to the under-treatment of many pain patients. Recently, research on the role of macrophages in pain processes has been increasing, offering potential for novel therapeutic approaches. Macrophages, being indispensable immune cells in the innate immune system, exhibit remarkable diversity and plasticity. However, the majority of research has primarily focused on the contributions of M1 macrophages in promoting pain. During the late stage of tissue damage or inflammatory invasion, M1 macrophages typically transition into M2 macrophages. In recent years, growing evidence has highlighted the role of M2 macrophages in pain relief. In this review, we summarize the mechanisms involved in M2 macrophage polarization and discuss their emerging roles in pain relief. Notably, M2 macrophages appear to be key players in multiple endogenous pathways that promote pain relief. We further analyze potential pathways through which M2 macrophages may alleviate pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjing Zhao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Institute of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology and Resuscitation, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, China
| | - Lulin Ma
- Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Institute of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology and Resuscitation, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, China
| | - Daling Deng
- Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Institute of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology and Resuscitation, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, China
| | - Tianhao Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Institute of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology and Resuscitation, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, China
| | - Linlin Han
- Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Institute of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology and Resuscitation, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, China
| | - Feng Xu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Institute of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology and Resuscitation, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, China
| | - Shiqian Huang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Institute of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology and Resuscitation, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, China
| | - Yuanyuan Ding
- Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Institute of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology and Resuscitation, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiangdong Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Institute of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology and Resuscitation, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, China
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