1
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Fortier SM, Walker NM, Penke LR, Baas JD, Shen Q, Speth JM, Huang SK, Zemans RL, Bennett AM, Peters-Golden M. MAPK phosphatase 1 inhibition of p38α within lung myofibroblasts is essential for spontaneous fibrosis resolution. J Clin Invest 2024; 134:e172826. [PMID: 38512415 PMCID: PMC11093610 DOI: 10.1172/jci172826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis following tissue injury is distinguished from normal repair by the accumulation of pathogenic and apoptosis-resistant myofibroblasts (MFs), which arise primarily by differentiation from resident fibroblasts. Endogenous molecular brakes that promote MF dedifferentiation and clearance during spontaneous resolution of experimental lung fibrosis may provide insights that could inform and improve the treatment of progressive pulmonary fibrosis in patients. MAPK phosphatase 1 (MKP1) influences the cellular phenotype and fate through precise and timely regulation of MAPK activity within various cell types and tissues, yet its role in lung fibroblasts and pulmonary fibrosis has not been explored. Using gain- and loss-of-function studies, we found that MKP1 promoted lung MF dedifferentiation and restored the sensitivity of these cells to apoptosis - effects determined to be mainly dependent on MKP1's dephosphorylation of p38α MAPK (p38α). Fibroblast-specific deletion of MKP1 following peak bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis largely abrogated its subsequent spontaneous resolution. Such resolution was restored by treating these transgenic mice with the p38α inhibitor VX-702. We conclude that MKP1 is a critical antifibrotic brake whose inhibition of pathogenic p38α in lung fibroblasts is necessary for fibrosis resolution following lung injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean M. Fortier
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Natalie M. Walker
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Loka R. Penke
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Jared D. Baas
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Qinxue Shen
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Jennifer M. Speth
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Steven K. Huang
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Rachel L. Zemans
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Anton M. Bennett
- Department of Pharmacology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Marc Peters-Golden
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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2
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Barbayianni I, Kanellopoulou P, Fanidis D, Nastos D, Ntouskou ED, Galaris A, Harokopos V, Hatzis P, Tsitoura E, Homer R, Kaminski N, Antoniou KM, Crestani B, Tzouvelekis A, Aidinis V. SRC and TKS5 mediated podosome formation in fibroblasts promotes extracellular matrix invasion and pulmonary fibrosis. Nat Commun 2023; 14:5882. [PMID: 37735172 PMCID: PMC10514346 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-41614-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The activation and accumulation of lung fibroblasts resulting in aberrant deposition of extracellular matrix components, is a pathogenic hallmark of Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis, a lethal and incurable disease. In this report, increased expression of TKS5, a scaffold protein essential for the formation of podosomes, was detected in the lung tissue of Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis patients and bleomycin-treated mice. Τhe profibrotic milieu is found to induce TKS5 expression and the formation of prominent podosome rosettes in lung fibroblasts, that are retained ex vivo, culminating in increased extracellular matrix invasion. Tks5+/- mice are found resistant to bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis, largely attributed to diminished podosome formation in fibroblasts and decreased extracellular matrix invasion. As computationally predicted, inhibition of src kinase is shown to potently attenuate podosome formation in lung fibroblasts and extracellular matrix invasion, and bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis, suggesting pharmacological targeting of podosomes as a very promising therapeutic option in pulmonary fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilianna Barbayianni
- Institute for Fundamental Biomedical Research, Biomedical Sciences Research Center Alexander Fleming, Athens, Greece
| | - Paraskevi Kanellopoulou
- Institute for Fundamental Biomedical Research, Biomedical Sciences Research Center Alexander Fleming, Athens, Greece
| | - Dionysios Fanidis
- Institute for Fundamental Biomedical Research, Biomedical Sciences Research Center Alexander Fleming, Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitris Nastos
- Institute for Fundamental Biomedical Research, Biomedical Sciences Research Center Alexander Fleming, Athens, Greece
| | - Eleftheria-Dimitra Ntouskou
- Institute for Fundamental Biomedical Research, Biomedical Sciences Research Center Alexander Fleming, Athens, Greece
| | - Apostolos Galaris
- Institute for Fundamental Biomedical Research, Biomedical Sciences Research Center Alexander Fleming, Athens, Greece
| | - Vaggelis Harokopos
- Institute for Fundamental Biomedical Research, Biomedical Sciences Research Center Alexander Fleming, Athens, Greece
| | - Pantelis Hatzis
- Institute for Fundamental Biomedical Research, Biomedical Sciences Research Center Alexander Fleming, Athens, Greece
| | - Eliza Tsitoura
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Robert Homer
- Department of Pathology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Naftali Kaminski
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Katerina M Antoniou
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Bruno Crestani
- Department of Pulmonology, Bichat-Claude Bernard Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Argyrios Tzouvelekis
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Vassilis Aidinis
- Institute for Fundamental Biomedical Research, Biomedical Sciences Research Center Alexander Fleming, Athens, Greece.
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3
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Golec M, Kamdar M, Barteit S. Comprehensive Ontology of Fibroproliferative Diseases: Protocol for a Semantic Technology Study. JMIR Res Protoc 2023; 12:e48645. [PMID: 37566458 PMCID: PMC10457705 DOI: 10.2196/48645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fibroproliferative or fibrotic diseases (FDs), which represent a significant proportion of age-related pathologies and account for over 40% of mortality in developed nations, are often underrepresented in focused research. Typically, these conditions are studied individually, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), rather than as a collective entity, thereby limiting the holistic understanding and development of effective treatments. To address this, we propose creating and publicizing a comprehensive fibroproliferative disease ontology (FDO) to unify the understanding of FDs. OBJECTIVE This paper aims to delineate the study protocol for the creation of the FDO, foster transparency and high quality standards during its development, and subsequently promote its use once it becomes publicly available. METHODS We aim to establish an ontology encapsulating the broad spectrum of FDs, constructed in the Web Ontology Language format using the Protégé ontology editor, adhering to ontology development life cycle principles. The modeling process will leverage Protégé in accordance with a methodologically defined process, involving targeted scoping reviews of MEDLINE and PubMed information, expert knowledge, and an ontology development process. A hybrid top-down and bottom-up strategy will guide the identification of core concepts and relations, conducted by a team of domain experts based on systematic iterations of scientific literature reviews. RESULTS The result will be an exhaustive FDO accommodating a wide variety of crucial biomedical concepts, augmented with synonyms, definitions, and references. The FDO aims to encapsulate diverse perspectives on the FD domain, including those of clinicians, health informaticians, medical researchers, and public health experts. CONCLUSIONS The FDO is expected to stimulate broader and more in-depth FD research by enabling reasoning, inference, and the identification of relationships between concepts for application in multiple contexts, such as developing specialized software, fostering research communities, and enhancing domain comprehension. A common vocabulary and understanding of relationships among medical professionals could potentially expedite scientific progress and the discovery of innovative solutions. The publicly available FDO will form the foundation for future research, technological advancements, and public health initiatives. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) PRR1-10.2196/48645.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcin Golec
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Maulik Kamdar
- Center for Advanced Clinical Solutions, Optum Health, Eden Prairie, MN, United States
| | - Sandra Barteit
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
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4
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Hall C, Law JP, Reyat JS, Cumberland MJ, Hang S, Vo NTN, Raniga K, Weston CJ, O'Shea C, Townend JN, Gehmlich K, Ferro CJ, Denning C, Pavlovic D. Chronic activation of human cardiac fibroblasts in vitro attenuates the reversibility of the myofibroblast phenotype. Sci Rep 2023; 13:12137. [PMID: 37495732 PMCID: PMC10372150 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-39369-y] [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: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Activation of cardiac fibroblasts and differentiation to myofibroblasts underlies development of pathological cardiac fibrosis, leading to arrhythmias and heart failure. Myofibroblasts are characterised by increased α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) fibre expression, secretion of collagens and changes in proliferation. Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) and increased mechanical stress can initiate myofibroblast activation. Reversibility of the myofibroblast phenotype has been observed in murine cells but has not been explored in human cardiac fibroblasts. In this study, chronically activated adult primary human ventricular cardiac fibroblasts and human induced pluripotent stem cell derived cFbs (hiPSC-cFbs) were used to investigate the potential for reversal of the myofibroblast phenotype using either subculture on soft substrates or TGF-β receptor inhibition. Culture on softer plates (25 or 2 kPa Young's modulus) did not alter proliferation or reduce expression of α-SMA and collagen 1. Similarly, culture of myofibroblasts in the presence of TGF-β inhibitor did not reverse myofibroblasts back to a quiescent phenotype. Chronically activated hiPSC-cFbs also showed attenuated response to TGF-β receptor inhibition and inability to reverse to quiescent fibroblast phenotype. Our data demonstrate substantial loss of TGF-β signalling plasticity as well as a loss of feedback from the surrounding mechanical environment in chronically activated human myofibroblasts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin Hall
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Jonathan P Law
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Jasmeet S Reyat
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Max J Cumberland
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Shaun Hang
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Nguyen T N Vo
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Kavita Raniga
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Chris J Weston
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Christopher O'Shea
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Jonathan N Townend
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
- Department of Cardiology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2GW, UK
| | - Katja Gehmlich
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Charles J Ferro
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
- Department of Renal Medicine, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2GW, UK
| | - Chris Denning
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK.
| | - Davor Pavlovic
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK.
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5
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Shen S, Wei J, Kang W, Wang T. Elucidating shared biomarkers and pathways in kidney stones and diabetes: insights into novel therapeutic targets and the role of resveratrol. J Transl Med 2023; 21:491. [PMID: 37480086 PMCID: PMC10360253 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04356-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The pathogenic mechanisms shared between kidney stones and diabetes at the transcriptional level remain elusive, and the molecular mechanisms by which resveratrol exerts its protective effects against these conditions require further investigation. METHODS To address these gaps in knowledge, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of microarray and RNA-seq datasets to elucidate shared biomarkers and biological pathways involved in the pathogenesis of kidney stones and diabetes. An assortment of bioinformatic approaches was employed to illuminate the common molecular markers and associated pathways, thereby contributing to the identification of innovative therapeutic targets. Further investigation into the molecular mechanisms of resveratrol in preventing these conditions was conducted using molecular docking simulation and first-principles calculations. RESULTS The study identified 11 potential target genes associated with kidney stones and diabetes through the intersection of genes from weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) and differentially expressed genes (DEGs) screening. Among these, Interleukin 11 (IL11) emerged as a pivotal hub gene and a potential diagnostic biomarker for both conditions, particularly in males. Expression analysis of IL11 demonstrated elevated levels in kidney stones and diabetes groups compared to controls. Additionally, IL11 exhibited correlations with specific cell types and differential expression in normal and pathological conditions. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) highlighted significant disparities in biological processes, pathways, and immune signatures associated with IL11. Moreover, molecular docking simulation of resveratrol towards IL11 and a first-principles investigation of Ca adsorption on the resveratrol surface provided structural evidence for the development of resveratrol-based drugs for these conditions. CONCLUSIONS Overall, this investigation illuminates the discovery of common molecular mechanisms underlying kidney stones and diabetes, unveils potential diagnostic biomarkers, and elucidates the significance of IL11 in these conditions. It also provides insights into IL11 as a promising therapeutic target and highlights the role of resveratrol. Nonetheless, further research is warranted to enhance our understanding of IL11 targeting mechanisms and address any limitations in the study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanlin Shen
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250014, China
| | - Jiafeng Wei
- Department of Urology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, 250021, China
| | - Weiting Kang
- Department of Urology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, 250021, China
| | - Tengteng Wang
- Department of Urology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, 250021, China.
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6
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Xiao C, Li Q, Xiao J, Chen X, Yuan J, Li S, Li W, Gao D, Li L, Liu Y, Shen F. miR-9 targeting RUNX1 improves LPS-induced alveolar hypercoagulation and fibrinolysis inhibition through NF-κB inactivation in ARDS. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 120:110318. [PMID: 37201407 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.110318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 05/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a clinical and pathophysiological complex syndrome with high mortality. Alveolar hypercoagulation and fibrinolytic inhibition constitute the core part of the pathophysiology of ARDS. miR-9 (microRNA-9a-5p) plays an important role in the pathogenesis of ARDS, but whether it regulates alveolar pro-coagulation and fibrinolysis inhibition in ARDS remains to be elucidated. We aimed to determine the contributing role of miR-9 on alveolar hypercoagulation and fibrinolysis inhibition in ARDS. METHODS In the ARDS animal model, we first observed the miR-9 and runt-related transcription factor 1 (RUNX1) expression in lung tissue, the effects of miR-9 on alveolar hypercoagulation and fibrinolytic inhibition in ARDS rats, and the efficacy of miR-9 on acute lung injury. In the cell, alveolar epithelial cells type II (AECII) were treated with LPS, and the levels of miR-9 and RUNX1 were detected. Then we observed the effects of miR-9 on procoagulant and fibrinolysis inhibitor factors in cells. Finally, we explored whether the efficacies of miR-9 were associated with RUNX1; we also preliminarily examined the miR-9 and RUNX1 levels in plasma in patients with ARDS. RESULTS In ARDS rats, miR-9 expression decreased, but RUNX1 expression increased in the pulmonary tissue of ARDS rats. miR-9 displayed to attenuate lung injury and pulmonary wet/dry ratio. Study results in vivo demonstrated that miR-9 ameliorated alveolar hypercoagulation and fibrinolysis inhibition and attenuated the collagen III expressions in tissue. miR-9 also inhibited NF-κB signaling pathway activation in ARDS. In LPS-induced AECII, the expression changes of both miR-9 and RUNX1 were similar to those in pulmonary tissue in the animal ARDS model. miR-9 effectively inhabited tissue factor (TF), plasma activator inhibitor (PAI-1) expressions, and NF-κB activation in LPS-treated ACEII cells. Besides, miR-9 directly targeted RUNX1, inhibiting TF and PAI-1 expression and attenuating NF-κB activation in LPS-treated AECII cells. Clinically, we preliminarily found that the expression of miR-9 was significantly reduced in ARDS patients compared to non-ARDS patients. CONCLUSION Our experimental data indicate that by directly targeting RUNX1, miR-9 improves alveolar hypercoagulation and fibrinolysis inhibition via suppressing NF-κB pathway activation in LPS-induced rat ARDS, implying that miR-9/RUNX1 is expected to be a new therapeutic target for ARDS treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuan Xiao
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, the Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China.
| | - Qing Li
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, the Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China.
| | - Jingjing Xiao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Guizhou Provincial People's Hospital, Guiyang, China.
| | - Xianjun Chen
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, the Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China.
| | - Jia Yuan
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, the Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China.
| | - Shuwen Li
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, the Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China.
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, the Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China.
| | - Daixiu Gao
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, the Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China.
| | - Lu Li
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, the Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China.
| | - Ying Liu
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, the Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China.
| | - Feng Shen
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, the Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China.
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7
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Morris JL, Letson HL, Biros E, McEwen PC, Dobson GP. Female rats have a different healing phenotype than males after anterior cruciate ligament rupture with no intervention. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:976980. [DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.976980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Little is known on the sex-specific healing responses after an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture. To address this, we compared male and female Sprague-Dawley rats following non-surgical ACL rupture. Hematology, inflammation, joint swelling, range of motion, and pain-sensitivity were analyzed at various times over 31-days. Healing was assessed by histopathology and gene expression changes in the ACL remnant and adjacent joint tissues. In the first few days, males and females showed similar functional responses after rupture, despite contrasting hematology and systemic inflammatory profiles. Sex-specific differences were found in inflammatory, immune and angiogenic potential in the synovial fluid. Histopathology and increased collagen and fibronectin gene expression revealed significant tissue remodeling in both sexes. In the ACL remnant, however, Acta2 gene expression (α-SMA production) was 4-fold higher in males, with no change in females, indicating increased fibroblast-to-myofibroblast transition with higher contractile elements (stiffness) in males. Females had 80% lower Pparg expression, which further suggests reduced cellular differentiation potential in females than males. Sex differences were also apparent in the infrapatellar fat pad and articular cartilage. We conclude females and males showed different patterns of healing post-ACL rupture over 31-days, which may impact timing of reconstruction surgery, and possibly clinical outcome.
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8
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Kletukhina S, Mutallapova G, Titova A, Gomzikova M. Role of Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Extracellular Vesicles in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231911212. [PMID: 36232511 PMCID: PMC9569825 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231911212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2022] [Revised: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive interstitial fibrotic disease that leads to disability and death within 5 years of diagnosis. Pulmonary fibrosis is a disease with a multifactorial etiology. The concept of aberrant regeneration of the pulmonary epithelium reveals the pathogenesis of IPF, according to which repeated damage and death of alveolar epithelial cells is the main mechanism leading to the development of progressive IPF. Cell death provokes the migration, proliferation and activation of fibroblasts, which overproduce extracellular matrix, resulting in fibrotic deformity of the lung tissue. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and extracellular vesicles (EVs) are promising therapies for pulmonary fibrosis. MSCs, and EVs derived from MSCs, modulate the activity of immune cells, inhibit the expression of profibrotic genes, reduce collagen deposition and promote the repair of damaged lung tissue. This review considers the molecular mechanisms of the development of IPF and the multifaceted role of MSCs in the therapy of IPF. Currently, EVs-MSCs are regarded as a promising cell-free therapy tool, so in this review we discuss the results available to date of the use of EVs-MSCs for lung tissue repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sevindzh Kletukhina
- Laboratory of Intercellular Communication, Kazan Federal University, 420008 Kazan, Russia
| | - Guzel Mutallapova
- Laboratory of Intercellular Communication, Kazan Federal University, 420008 Kazan, Russia
| | - Angelina Titova
- Morphology and General Pathology Department, Kazan Federal University, 420008 Kazan, Russia
| | - Marina Gomzikova
- Laboratory of Intercellular Communication, Kazan Federal University, 420008 Kazan, Russia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +7-917-8572269
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9
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Penke LR, Speth JM, Huang SK, Fortier SM, Baas J, Peters-Golden M. KLF4 is a therapeutically tractable brake on fibroblast activation which promotes resolution of pulmonary fibrosis. JCI Insight 2022; 7:160688. [PMID: 35852857 PMCID: PMC9462506 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.160688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
There is a paucity of information about potential molecular brakes on the activation of fibroblasts that drive tissue fibrosis. The transcription factor Krüppel-like factor 4 (KLF4) is best known as a determinant of cell stemness and a tumor suppressor. We found that its expression was diminished in fibroblasts from fibrotic lung. Gain- and loss-of-function studies showed that KLF4 inhibited fibroblast proliferation, collagen synthesis, and differentiation to myofibroblasts, while restoring their sensitivity to apoptosis. Conditional deletion of KLF4 from fibroblasts potentiated the peak degree of pulmonary fibrosis and abrogated the subsequent spontaneous resolution in a model of transient fibrosis. A small molecule inducer of KLF4 was able to restore its expression in fibrotic fibroblasts and elicit resolution in an experimental model characterized by more clinically relevant persistent pulmonary fibrosis. These data identify KLF4 as a pivotal brake on fibroblast activation whose induction represents a therapeutic approach in fibrosis of the lung and perhaps other organs.
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10
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Chen B, Mu C, Zhang Z, He X, Liu X. The Love-Hate Relationship Between TGF-β Signaling and the Immune System During Development and Tumorigenesis. Front Immunol 2022; 13:891268. [PMID: 35720407 PMCID: PMC9204485 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.891268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Since TGF-β was recognized as an essential secreted cytokine in embryogenesis and adult tissue homeostasis a decade ago, our knowledge of the role of TGF-β in mammalian development and disease, particularly cancer, has constantly been updated. Mounting evidence has confirmed that TGF-β is the principal regulator of the immune system, as deprivation of TGF-β signaling completely abrogates adaptive immunity. However, enhancing TGF-β signaling constrains the immune response through multiple mechanisms, including boosting Treg cell differentiation and inducing CD8+ T-cell apoptosis in the disease context. The love-hate relationship between TGF-β signaling and the immune system makes it challenging to develop effective monotherapies targeting TGF-β, especially for cancer treatment. Nonetheless, recent work on combination therapies of TGF-β inhibition and immunotherapy have provide insights into the development of TGF-β-targeted therapies, with favorable outcomes in patients with advanced cancer. Hence, we summarize the entanglement between TGF-β and the immune system in the developmental and tumor contexts and recent progress on hijacking crucial TGF-β signaling pathways as an emerging area of cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baode Chen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Key Laboratory of Clinical In Vitro Diagnostic Techniques of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Chenglin Mu
- Institute for Intelligent Bio/Chem Manufacturing (iBCM), Zhejiang University (ZJU)-Hangzhou Global Scientific and Technological Innovation Center, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhiwei Zhang
- Institute for Intelligent Bio/Chem Manufacturing (iBCM), Zhejiang University (ZJU)-Hangzhou Global Scientific and Technological Innovation Center, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xuelin He
- Kidney Disease Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xia Liu
- Institute for Intelligent Bio/Chem Manufacturing (iBCM), Zhejiang University (ZJU)-Hangzhou Global Scientific and Technological Innovation Center, Hangzhou, China
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11
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Li C, Wang B. Mesenchymal Stem/Stromal Cells in Progressive Fibrogenic Involvement and Anti-Fibrosis Therapeutic Properties. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:902677. [PMID: 35721482 PMCID: PMC9198494 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.902677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis refers to the connective tissue deposition and stiffness usually as a result of injury. Fibrosis tissue-resident mesenchymal cells, including fibroblasts, myofibroblast, smooth muscle cells, and mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs), are major players in fibrogenic processes under certain contexts. Acknowledging differentiation potential of MSCs to the aforementioned other types of mesenchymal cell lineages is essential for better understanding of MSCs’ substantial contributions to progressive fibrogenesis. MSCs may represent a potential therapeutic option for fibrosis resolution owing to their unique pleiotropic functions and therapeutic properties. Currently, clinical trial efforts using MSCs and MSC-based products are underway but clinical data collected by the early phase trials are insufficient to offer better support for the MSC-based anti-fibrotic therapies. Given that MSCs are involved in the coagulation through releasing tissue factor, MSCs can retain procoagulant activity to be associated with fibrogenic disease development. Therefore, MSCs’ functional benefits in translational applications need to be carefully balanced with their potential risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenghai Li
- Stem Cell Program of Clinical Research Center, People’s Hospital of Zhengzhou University and Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Stem Cell Differentiation and Modification, Henan University, Zhengzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Chenghai Li, ; Bin Wang,
| | - Bin Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, People’s Hospital of Zhengzhou University and Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Chenghai Li, ; Bin Wang,
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12
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Rhein Improves Renal Fibrosis by Restoring Cpt1a-Mediated Fatty Acid Oxidation through SirT1/STAT3/twist1 Pathway. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27072344. [PMID: 35408745 PMCID: PMC9000220 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27072344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Revised: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/03/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The latest progress in the field of renal fibrosis mainly focuses on the new concept of “partial epithelial-mesenchymal transition (pEMT)” to explain the contribution of renal tubular epithelial (RTE) cells to renal fibrosis and the crucial role of fatty acid oxidation (FAO) dysfunction in RTE cells for the development of renal fibrosis. FAO depression is considered to be secondary or occur simultaneously with pEMT. We explored the relationship between pEMT and FAO and the effect of rhein on them. Intragastric administration of rhein significantly improved the levels of BUN, Scr, α-SMA, collagen 1A and histopathological changes in UUO-rats. Transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses revealed that abnormal signaling pathways were involved in EMT and FAO disorders. RTE cell experiments showed that TGF-β could inhibit the activity of Cpt1a, resulting in ATP depletion and lipid deposition. Cpt1a inhibitor induced EMT, while Cpt1 substrate or rhein inhibited EMT, indicating that Cpt1a-mediated FAO dysfunction is essential for RTE cells EMT. Further studies showed that Cpt1a activity were regulated by SirT1/STAT3/Twist1 pathway. Rhein inhibits RTE cell EMT by promoting Cpt1a-mediated FAO through the SirT1/STAT3/Twist1 pathway. Surprisingly and importantly, our experiments showed that FAO depression occurs before EMT, and EMT is one of the results of FAO depression.
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13
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Wilson AC, Chiles J, Ashish S, Chanda D, Kumar PL, Mobley JA, Neptune ER, Thannickal VJ, McDonald MLN. Integrated bioinformatics analysis identifies established and novel TGFβ1-regulated genes modulated by anti-fibrotic drugs. Sci Rep 2022; 12:3080. [PMID: 35197532 PMCID: PMC8866468 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-07151-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Although fibrosis may involve different organ systems, transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ) has been established as a master regulator of fibrosis across organs. Pirfenidone and Nintedanib are the only currently-approved drugs to treat fibrosis, specifically idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, but their mechanisms of action remain poorly understood. To identify novel drug targets and uncover potential mechanisms by which these drugs attenuate fibrosis, we performed an integrative 'omics analysis of transcriptomic and proteomic responses to TGFβ1-stimulated lung fibroblasts. Significant findings were annotated as associated with pirfenidone and nintedanib treatment in silico via Coremine. Integrative 'omics identified a co-expressed transcriptomic and proteomic module significantly correlated with TGFβ1 treatment that was enriched (FDR-p = 0.04) with genes associated with pirfenidone and nintedanib treatment. While a subset of genes in this module have been implicated in fibrogenesis, several novel TGFβ1 signaling targets were identified. Specifically, four genes (BASP1, HSD17B6, CDH11, and TNS1) have been associated with pirfenidone, while five genes (CLINT1, CADM1, MTDH, SYDE1, and MCTS1) have been associated with nintedanib, and MYDGF has been implicated with treatment using both drugs. Using the Clue Drug Repurposing Hub, succinic acid was highlighted as a metabolite regulated by the protein encoded by HSD17B6. This study provides new insights into the anti-fibrotic actions of pirfenidone and nintedanib and identifies novel targets for future mechanistic studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ava C. Wilson
- grid.265892.20000000106344187Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL USA ,grid.265892.20000000106344187Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL USA
| | - Joe Chiles
- grid.265892.20000000106344187Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL USA
| | - Shah Ashish
- grid.265892.20000000106344187Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL USA
| | - Diptiman Chanda
- grid.265892.20000000106344187Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL USA
| | - Preeti L. Kumar
- grid.265892.20000000106344187Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL USA
| | - James A. Mobley
- grid.265892.20000000106344187Division of Molecular and Translational Biomedicine, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL USA
| | - Enid R. Neptune
- grid.21107.350000 0001 2171 9311Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD USA
| | - Victor J. Thannickal
- grid.265892.20000000106344187Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL USA ,grid.265219.b0000 0001 2217 8588John W. Deming Department of Medicine, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA USA
| | - Merry-Lynn N. McDonald
- grid.265892.20000000106344187Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL USA ,grid.265892.20000000106344187Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL USA ,grid.265892.20000000106344187Department of Genetics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL USA
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14
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Wang J, Xi Y, Ma S, Qi J, Li J, Zhang R, Han C, Li L, Wang J, Liu H. Single-molecule long-read sequencing reveals the potential impact of posttranscriptional regulation on gene dosage effects on the avian Z chromosome. BMC Genomics 2022; 23:122. [PMID: 35148676 PMCID: PMC8832729 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-022-08360-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Mammalian sex chromosomes provide dosage compensation, but avian lack a global mechanism of dose compensation. Herein, we employed nanopore sequencing to investigate the genetic basis of gene expression and gene dosage effects in avian Z chromosomes at the posttranscriptional level. Results In this study, the gonad and head skin of female and male duck samples (n = 4) were collected at 16 weeks of age for Oxford nanopore sequencing. Our results revealed a dosage effect and local regulation of duck Z chromosome gene expression. Additionally, AS and APA achieve tissue-specific gene expression, and male-biased lncRNA regulates its Z-linked target genes, with a positive regulatory role for gene dosage effects on the duck Z chromosome. In addition, GO enrichment and KEGG pathway analysis showed that the dosage effects of Z-linked genes were mainly associated with the cellular response to hormone stimulus, melanin biosynthetic, metabolic pathways, and melanogenesis, resulting in sex differences. Conclusions Our data suggested that post transcriptional regulation (AS, APA and lncRNA) has a potential impact on the gene expression effects of avian Z chromosomes. Our study provides a new view of gene regulation underlying the dose effects in avian Z chromosomes at the RNA post transcriptional level. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12864-022-08360-8.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianmei Wang
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 613000, China
| | - Yang Xi
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 613000, China
| | - Shengchao Ma
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 613000, China
| | - Jingjing Qi
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 613000, China
| | - Junpeng Li
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 613000, China
| | - Rongping Zhang
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 613000, China
| | - Chunchun Han
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 613000, China
| | - Liang Li
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 613000, China
| | - Jiwen Wang
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 613000, China
| | - Hehe Liu
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 613000, China.
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15
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Li C, Zhao H, Cheng L, Wang B. Allogeneic vs. autologous mesenchymal stem/stromal cells in their medication practice. Cell Biosci 2021; 11:187. [PMID: 34727974 PMCID: PMC8561357 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-021-00698-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem/stromal cell (MSC)-based therapeutics is already available for treatment of a range of diseases or medical conditions. Autologous or allogeneic MSCs obtained from self or donors have their own advantages and disadvantages in their medical practice. Therapeutic benefits of using autologous vs. allogeneic MSCs are inconclusive. Transplanted MSCs within the body interact with their physical microenvironment or niche, physiologically or pathologically, and such cells in a newly established tissue microenvironment may be impacted by the pathological harmful environmental factors to alter their unique biological behaviors. Meanwhile, a temporary microenvironment/niche may be also altered by the resident or niche-surrounding MSCs. Therefore, the functional plasticity and heterogeneity of MSCs caused by different donors and subpopulations of MSCs may result in potential uncertainty in their safe and efficacious medical practice. Acknowledging a connection between MSCs' biology and their existing microenvironment, donor-controlled clinical practice for the long-term therapeutic benefit is suggested to further consider minimizing MSCs potential harm for MSC-based individual therapies. In this review, we summarize the advantages and disadvantages of autologous vs. allogeneic MSCs in their therapeutic applications. Among other issues, we highlight the importance of better understanding of the various microenvironments that may affect the properties of niche-surrounding MSCs and discuss the clinical applications of MSCs within different contexts for treatment of different diseases including cardiomyopathy, lupus and lupus nephritis, diabetes and diabetic complications, bone and cartilage repair, cancer and tissue fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenghai Li
- Stem Cell Program of Clinical Research Center, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 7 Weiwu Road, Zhengzhou, 450003, China.
| | - Hua Zhao
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 7 Weiwu Road, Zhengzhou, 450003, China
| | - Linna Cheng
- Institute of Hematology, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 7 Weiwu Road, Zhengzhou, 450003, China
| | - Bin Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 7 Weiwu Road, Zhengzhou, 450003, China.
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16
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Xu Y, Peng W, Han D, Feng F, Wang Z, Gu C, Zhou X, Wu Q. Maiwei Yangfei decoction prevents bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis in mice. Exp Ther Med 2021; 22:1306. [PMID: 34630661 PMCID: PMC8461617 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2021.10741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Maiwei Yangfei (MWYF) is a compound Chinese herb that is safe and effective in the clinical setting in patients with pulmonary fibrosis (PF). The aim of the present study was to assess the role of a (MWYF) decoction in a bleomycin (BLM)-induced PF mouse model and to investigate the underlying functional mechanism. Chemical components within the MWYF decoction were analysed using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. A total of 50 C57BL/6 mice were randomly assigned to one of the following five groups with 10 mice per group: Control, model, low dose MWYF (20 g/kg), medium dose MWYF (40 g/kg) and high dose MWYF (60 g/kg). A mouse PF model was established by the tracheal instillation of BLM (5 mg/kg) prior to MWYF treatment, except for mice in the control group. After 21 days of treatment with MWYF, the mice were sacrificed and the body weights were recorded. In addition, pulmonary tissues and bronchial alveolar lavage fluid were collected. TNF-α, IL-6, IL-17, hydroxyproline, pyridinoline and collagen I levels were determined using ELISA. Vimentin, α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), fibronectin, TGF-β1, Smad3, TNF-α, IL-6, IL-17, collagen I and collagen III were determined using western blotting. Vimentin and α-SMA levels were also determined using immunofluorescence analysis. Collagens I and III were detected using immunohistochemical analysis and TGF-β1 and Smad3 levels were determined using reverse transcription-quantitative PCR. Following treatment with MWYF decoction, the body weight of the mice in the PF group increased, the degree of pulmonary alveolitis and PF was reduced, collagen levels were reduced and the expression levels of α-SMA, vimentin and fibronectin were decreased. Although both protein and mRNA expression levels of TGF-β1 and Smad3 were reduced, they remained higher than those observed in the control group. To conclude, MWYF decoction delayed the development of BLM-induced PF in mice, where the functional mechanism was likely associated with the TGF-β1/Smad3 signalling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Xu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, P.R. China
| | - Wenpan Peng
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, P.R. China
| | - Di Han
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, P.R. China
| | - Fanchao Feng
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, P.R. China.,Department of Respiratory and Critical Medicine, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, P.R. China
| | - Zhichao Wang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, P.R. China
| | - Cheng Gu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, P.R. China
| | - Xianmei Zhou
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, P.R. China.,Department of Respiratory and Critical Medicine, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, P.R. China
| | - Qi Wu
- Department of Physiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221009, P.R. China
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17
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Penke LRK, Speth J, Wettlaufer S, Draijer C, Peters-Golden M. Bortezomib Inhibits Lung Fibrosis and Fibroblast Activation Without Proteasome Inhibition. Am J Respir Cell Mol Biol 2021; 66:23-37. [PMID: 34236953 DOI: 10.1165/rcmb.2021-0112oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The FDA-approved proteasomal inhibitor bortezomib (BTZ) has attracted interest for its potential anti-fibrotic actions. However, neither its in vivo efficacy in lung fibrosis nor its dependence on proteasome inhibition has been conclusively defined. In this study, we assessed the therapeutic efficacy of BTZ in a mouse model of pulmonary fibrosis, developed an in vitro protocol to define its actions on diverse fibroblast activation parameters, determined its reliance on proteasome inhibition for these actions in vivo and in vitro and explored alternative mechanisms of action. The therapeutic administration of BTZ diminished the severity of pulmonary fibrosis without reducing proteasome activity in the lung. In experiments designed to mimic this lack of proteasome inhibition in vitro, BTZ reduced fibroblast proliferation, differentiation into myofibroblasts, and collagen synthesis. It promoted de-differentiation of myofibroblasts and overcame their characteristic resistance to apoptosis. Mechanistically, BTZ inhibited kinases important for fibroblast activation while inducing expression of dual-specificity phosphatase 1 or DUSP1, and knockdown of DUSP1 abolished its anti-fibrotic actions in fibroblasts. Collectively, these findings suggest that BTZ exhibits a multidimensional profile of robust inhibitory actions on lung fibroblasts as well as anti-fibrotic actions in vivo. Unexpectedly, these actions appear to be independent of proteasome inhibition, and instead attributable to induction of DUSP1.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jennifer Speth
- University of Michigan, 1259, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States
| | - Scott Wettlaufer
- University of Michigan, 1259, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States
| | | | - Marc Peters-Golden
- University of Michigan Health System, 21707, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States;
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18
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Fortier SM, Penke LR, King D, Pham TX, Ligresti G, Peters-Golden M. Myofibroblast dedifferentiation proceeds via distinct transcriptomic and phenotypic transitions. JCI Insight 2021; 6:144799. [PMID: 33561015 PMCID: PMC8026183 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.144799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Myofibroblasts are the major cellular source of collagen, and their accumulation - via differentiation from fibroblasts and resistance to apoptosis - is a hallmark of tissue fibrosis. Clearance of myofibroblasts by dedifferentiation and restoration of apoptosis sensitivity has the potential to reverse fibrosis. Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and mitogens such as FGF2 have each been shown to dedifferentiate myofibroblasts, but - to our knowledge - the resultant cellular phenotypes have neither been comprehensively characterized or compared. Here, we show that PGE2 elicited dedifferentiation of human lung myofibroblasts via cAMP/PKA, while FGF2 utilized MEK/ERK. The 2 mediators yielded transitional cells with distinct transcriptomes, with FGF2 promoting but PGE2 inhibiting proliferation and survival. The gene expression pattern in fibroblasts isolated from the lungs of mice undergoing resolution of experimental fibrosis resembled that of myofibroblasts treated with PGE2 in vitro. We conclude that myofibroblast dedifferentiation can proceed via distinct programs exemplified by treatment with PGE2 and FGF2, with dedifferentiation occurring in vivo most closely resembling the former.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Loka R. Penke
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine and
| | - Dana King
- BCRF Bioinformatics Core, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Tho X. Pham
- Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Giovanni Ligresti
- Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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19
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Hall C, Gehmlich K, Denning C, Pavlovic D. Complex Relationship Between Cardiac Fibroblasts and Cardiomyocytes in Health and Disease. J Am Heart Assoc 2021; 10:e019338. [PMID: 33586463 PMCID: PMC8174279 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.120.019338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Cardiac fibroblasts are the primary cell type responsible for deposition of extracellular matrix in the heart, providing support to the contracting myocardium and contributing to a myriad of physiological signaling processes. Despite the importance of fibrosis in processes of wound healing, excessive fibroblast proliferation and activation can lead to pathological remodeling, driving heart failure and the onset of arrhythmias. Our understanding of the mechanisms driving the cardiac fibroblast activation and proliferation is expanding, and evidence for their direct and indirect effects on cardiac myocyte function is accumulating. In this review, we focus on the importance of the fibroblast-to-myofibroblast transition and the cross talk of cardiac fibroblasts with cardiac myocytes. We also consider the current use of models used to explore these questions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin Hall
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences University of Birmingham United Kingdom
| | - Katja Gehmlich
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences University of Birmingham United Kingdom.,Division of Cardiovascular Medicine Radcliffe Department of Medicine and British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence Oxford University of Oxford United Kingdom
| | - Chris Denning
- Biodiscovery Institute University of Nottingham United Kingdom
| | - Davor Pavlovic
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences University of Birmingham United Kingdom
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20
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Hu F, Li M, Han F, Zhang Q, Zeng Y, Zhang W, Cheng X. Role of TRPM7 in cardiac fibrosis: A potential therapeutic target (Review). Exp Ther Med 2020; 21:173. [PMID: 33456540 PMCID: PMC7792474 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2020.9604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cardiac fibrosis is a hallmark of cardiac remodeling associated with nearly all forms of heart disease. Clinically, no effective therapeutic drugs aim to inhibit cardiac fibrosis, owing to the complex etiological heterogeneity and pathogenesis of this disease. A two-in-one protein structure, a ubiquitous expression profile and unique biophysical characteristics enable the involvement of transient receptor potential melastatin-subfamily member 7 (TRPM7) in the pathogenesis and development of fibrosis-related cardiac diseases, such as heart failure (HF), cardiomyopathies, arrhythmia and hyperaldosteronism. In response to a variety of stimuli, multiple bioactive molecules can activate TRPM7 and related signaling pathways, leading to fibroblast proliferation, differentiation and extracellular matrix production in cardiac fibroblasts. TRPM7-mediated Ca2+ signaling and TGF-β1 signaling pathways are critical for the formation of fibrosis. Accumulating evidence has demonstrated that TRPM7 is a potential pharmacological target for halting the development of fibrotic cardiac diseases. Reliable drug-like molecules for further development of high-affinity in vivo drugs targeting TRPM7 are urgently needed. The present review discusses the widespread and significant role of TRPM7 in cardiac fibrosis and focuses on its potential as a therapeutic target for alleviating heart fibrogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Hu
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Meiyong Li
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Fengyu Han
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Qing Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, The Union Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430022, P.R. China
| | - Yuhao Zeng
- Department of Medical Education, The Second Clinical Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Weifang Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoshu Cheng
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China.,Center for Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular Diseases, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
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21
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Transforming Growth Factor-β Signaling in Fibrotic Diseases and Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10121666. [PMID: 33322749 PMCID: PMC7763058 DOI: 10.3390/biom10121666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Revised: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling is essential in embryo development and maintaining normal homeostasis. Extensive evidence shows that TGF-β activation acts on several cell types, including epithelial cells, fibroblasts, and immune cells, to form a pro-fibrotic environment, ultimately leading to fibrotic diseases. TGF-β is stored in the matrix in a latent form; once activated, it promotes a fibroblast to myofibroblast transition and regulates extracellular matrix (ECM) formation and remodeling in fibrosis. TGF-β signaling can also promote cancer progression through its effects on the tumor microenvironment. In cancer, TGF-β contributes to the generation of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) that have different molecular and cellular properties from activated or fibrotic fibroblasts. CAFs promote tumor progression and chronic tumor fibrosis via TGF-β signaling. Fibrosis and CAF-mediated cancer progression share several common traits and are closely related. In this review, we consider how TGF-β promotes fibrosis and CAF-mediated cancer progression. We also discuss recent evidence suggesting TGF-β inhibition as a defense against fibrotic disorders or CAF-mediated cancer progression to highlight the potential implications of TGF-β-targeted therapies for fibrosis and cancer.
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22
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Fertala J, Rivlin M, Wang ML, Beredjiklian PK, Steplewski A, Fertala A. Collagen-rich deposit formation in the sciatic nerve after injury and surgical repair: A study of collagen-producing cells in a rabbit model. Brain Behav 2020; 10:e01802. [PMID: 32924288 PMCID: PMC7559634 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.1802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2020] [Revised: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Posttraumatic scarring of peripheral nerves produces unwanted adhesions that block axonal growth. In the context of surgical nerve repair, the organization of the scar tissue adjacent to conduits used to span the gap between the stumps of transected nerves is poorly understood. The goal of this study was to elucidate the patterns of distribution of collagen-rich scar tissue and analyze the spatial organization of cells that produce fibrotic deposits around and within the conduit's lumen. METHODS Employing a rabbit model of sciatic nerve transection injury, we studied the formation of collagen-rich scar tissue both inside and outside conduits used to bridge the injury sites. Utilizing quantitative immunohistology and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy methods, we measured cellular and structural elements present in the extraneural and the intraneural scar of the proximal and distal nerve fragments. RESULTS Analysis of cells producing collagen-rich deposits revealed that alpha-smooth muscle actin-positive myofibroblasts were only present in the margins of the stumps. In contrast, heat shock protein 47-positive fibroblasts actively producing collagenous proteins were abundant within the entire scar tissue. The most prominent site of transected sciatic nerves with the highest number of cells actively producing collagen-rich scar was the proximal stump. CONCLUSION Our findings suggest the proximal region of the injury site plays a prominent role in pro-fibrotic processes associated with the formation of collagen-rich deposits. Moreover, they show that the role of canonical myofibroblasts in peripheral nerve regeneration is limited to wound contracture and that a distinct population of fibroblastic cells produce the collagenous proteins that form scar tissue. As scarring after nerve injury remains a clinical problem with poor outcomes due to incomplete nerve recovery, further elucidation of the cellular and spatial aspects of neural fibrosis will lead to more targeted treatments in the clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jolanta Fertala
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Michael Rivlin
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA.,Rothman Institute of Orthopaedics, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Mark L Wang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA.,Rothman Institute of Orthopaedics, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Pedro K Beredjiklian
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA.,Rothman Institute of Orthopaedics, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Andrzej Steplewski
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Andrzej Fertala
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Elster D, von Eyss B. Hippo signaling in regeneration and aging. Mech Ageing Dev 2020; 189:111280. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mad.2020.111280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Revised: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 06/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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