Development of Matrix Metalloproteinases-Mediated Extracellular Matrix Remodeling in Regenerative Medicine: A Mini Review

A versatile platform based on matrix metalloproteinase-sensitive peptides for novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies in arthritis

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), coupled with other proteinases and glycanases, can degrade proteoglycans, collagens, and other extracellular matrix (ECM) components in inflammatory and non-inflammatory arthritis, making them important pathogenic molecules and ideal disease indicators and pharmaceutical intervention triggers. For MMP responsiveness, MMP-sensitive peptides (MSPs) are among the most easily synthesized and cost-effective substrates, with free terminal amine and/or carboxyl groups extensively employed in multiple designs. We hereby provide a comprehensive review over the mechanisms and advances in MSP applications for the management of arthritis. These applications include early and precise diagnosis of MMP activity via fluorescence probe technologies; acting as nanodrug carriers to enable on-demand drug release triggered by pathological microenvironments; and facilitating cartilage engineering through MMP-mediated degradation, which promotes cell migration, matrix synthesis, and tissue integration. Specifically, the ultra-sensitive MSP diagnostic probes could significantly advance the early diagnosis and detection of osteoarthritis (OA), while MSP-based drug carriers for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can intelligently release anti-inflammatory drugs effectively during flare-ups, or even before symptoms manifest. The continuous progress in MSP development may acceleratedly lead to novel management regimens for arthropathy in the future.

Matrix metalloproteinase-driven epithelial-mesenchymal transition: implications in health and disease

Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a process in which epithelial cells, defined by apical-basal polarity and tight intercellular junctions, acquire migratory and invasive properties characteristic of mesenchymal cells. Under normal conditions, EMT directs essential morphogenetic events in embryogenesis and supports tissue repair. When dysregulated, EMT contributes to pathological processes such as organ fibrosis, chronic inflammation, and cancer progression and metastasis. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs)-a family of zinc-dependent proteases that degrade structural components of the extracellular matrix-sit at the nexus of this transition by dismantling basement membranes, activating pro-EMT signaling pathways, and cleaving adhesion molecules. When normally regulated, MMPs promote balanced ECM turnover and support the cyclical remodeling necessary for proper development, wound healing, and tissue homeostasis. When abnormally regulated, MMPs drive excessive ECM turnover, thereby promoting EMT-related pathologies, including tumor progression and fibrotic disease. This review provides an integrated overview of the molecular mechanisms by which MMPs both initiate and sustain EMT under physiological and disease conditions. It discusses how MMPs can potentiate EMT through TGF-β and Wnt/β-catenin signaling, disrupt cell-cell junction proteins, and potentiate the action of hypoxia-inducible factors in the tumor microenvironment. It discusses how these pathologic processes remodel tissues during fibrosis, and fuel cancer cell invasion, metastasis, and resistance to therapy. Finally, the review explores emerging therapeutic strategies that selectively target MMPs and EMT, ranging from CRISPR/Cas-mediated interventions to engineered tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs), and demonstrates how such approaches may suppress pathological EMT without compromising its indispensable roles in normal biology.

Integrated transcriptomic profiling reveals a STING-mediated Type II Interferon signature in SOD1-mutant amyotrophic lateral sclerosis models

Inflammation is a hallmark of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), particularly in cases with SOD1 mutations. Using integrative transcriptomics, we analyzed gene expression changes in mouse models throughout progression, human induced-pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs), and post-mortem spinal cord tissue from ALS patients. We identified a conserved upregulation of interferon (IFN) genes and IFN-stimulating genes (ISGs) in both mouse models and human ALS, with a predominance Type I IFNs (IFN-α/β) in mice and Type II IFNs (IFN-γ) in humans. In mouse models, we observed robust and sustained upregulation of Type I and II ISGs, including ATF3, beginning at disease onset stage and persisting throughout disease progression. Single-cell transcriptomics further pinpointed vascular endothelial cells as a major source of ISGs. Furthermore, we found that the STING-TBK1 axis is essential for the induction of Type II ISGs in ALS, as its deletion impaired their expression. Our study uncovers a conserved ISGs signature across ALS models and patients, highlighting the potential role of innate immune activation in ALS pathogenesis. These findings suggest that ISGs may serve as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for ALS.

Fibrosis in PCLS: comparing TGF-β and fibrotic cocktail

INTRODUCTION

Fibrotic cocktail (FC) is a combination of pro-fibrotic and pro-inflammatory mediators that induces early fibrotic changes in organotypic lung models. We hypothesised that transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1) alone induces a pro-fibrotic effect similar to FC. Our aim was to compare the pro-fibrotic effects of TGF-β1 with FC in human precision-cut lung slices (PCLS).

METHODS

PCLS from "healthy" lung tissue of cancer patients undergoing surgery (n = 7) were incubated with TGF-β1, FC or control for 72 h. Gene expression markers for myofibroblasts differentiation, extracellular matrix (ECM), as well as TGF-β receptors were assessed (RT-qPCR). ECM proteins expression in lysates and supernatant was assessed by ELISA and immunofluorescence.

RESULTS

We found that TGF-β1 significantly increased gene expression of ACTA2, COL1A1, CCN2, and VIM compared to control but also compared to FC. FC showed a significant increase of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) 7 and 1 compared to control, while TGF-β receptor 2 was lower after FC compared to TGF-β1 or control. FC or TGF-β1 showed similar fibronectin protein expression in lysates and supernatants, while type I collagen protein expression in lysates was significantly greater with TGF-β1 compared to control.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings show that TGF-β1 induces consistent pro-fibrotic changes in PCLS after 72 h. Compared to TGF-β1, FC treatment resulted in reduced gene expression of TGF-β receptor 2 and increased MMPs expression, potentially mitigating the early pro-fibrotic effects. Selecting specific pro-fibrotic stimuli may be preferable depending on the research question and time point of interest in lung fibrosis studies using PCLS.

The Therapeutic Efficacy and Molecular Mechanisms of Artemisia argyi Essential Oil in Treating Feline Herpesvirus Infection via Nasal Drops

This study aimed to explore the therapeutic potential and mechanisms of Artemisia argyi essential oil (AAEO) in managing feline herpesvirus type 1 (FeHV-1) infections. FeHV-1, the causative agent of feline viral rhinotracheitis (FVR), leads to severe respiratory and systemic complications in cats. In this study, 35 cats were divided into blank, FeHV-1 infection, and AAEO treatment groups (high, medium, and low doses). In vivo experiments demonstrated that AAEO alleviated clinical symptoms, reduced tissue damage, and modulated immune responses. The AAEO-treated groups showed higher survival rates, stabilized body temperatures, and less severe weight loss compared to the FeHV-1 group. Histopathological analysis revealed improved integrity in nasal, tracheal, and bronchial tissues. Transcriptomic and proteomic analyses identified critical pathways, such as IL-17 signaling, influenced by AAEO treatment, highlighting its role in suppressing inflammation and protecting tissue integrity. In vitro assays revealed that AAEO has concentration-dependent cytotoxicity in feline kidney cells (F81) and provides protective effects when used as a pre-treatment. These findings suggest that AAEO enhances host immune defenses and mitigates FeHV-1-induced damage through immune modulation and tissue protection.

Luteolin alleviates airway remodeling in asthma by inhibiting the epithelial-mesenchymal transition via β-catenin regulation

BACKGROUND

Asthma is a prevalent long-term inflammatory condition that causes airway inflammation and remodeling. Increasing evidence indicates that epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) holds a prominent implication in airway reconstruction in patients with asthma. Flavonoids obtained from Chinese Materia Medica (CMM), such as Luteolin (Lut), exhibit various beneficial effects in various asthma models. Lut has been shown to mitigate various asthma symptoms, including airway inflammation, hyperresponsiveness, bronchoconstriction, excessive mucus production, pulmonary autophagy, and neutrophilic asthma. However, whether flavonoids can suppress EMT-associated airway remodeling in asthma and the fundamental mechanisms involved remain unclear, with no studies specifically addressing Lut in this context.

PURPOSE

To evaluate the inhibition of airway remodeling in asthma by Lut and its potential mechanisms, while examining the significance of β-catenin in this process through cellular and animal studies.

METHODS

A BEAS-2B cell model stimulated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was established in vitro. Wound closure and Transwell assays were utilized to assess the cellular migratory ability. EMT- and fibrosis-related markers in LPS-stimulated cells were evaluated using RT-qPCR and western blotting. The status of the β-catenin/E-cadherin and β-catenin destruction complexes was evaluated using western blotting, immunofluorescence (IF) staining, and co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP) analysis. The regulatory function of Lut in β-catenin-dependent EMT was further validated by β-catenin overexpression with adenovirus transduction and siRNA-mediated knockdown of β-catenin. Moreover, the counts of different types of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) inflammatory cells from mice with asthma induced by ovalbumin (OVA) were evaluated in vivo using Congo red staining. Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E), Masson's trichrome, and periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) staining were used to evaluate collagen deposition, mucus production, and inflammation in murine lung tissues. Western blotting and immunohistochemistry (IHC) assays were used to assess EMT- and fibrosis-related markers in the lung tissues in vivo.

RESULT

Six naturally derived flavonoids, including Lut, attenuated cell migration and prevented EMT in LPS-treated BEAS-2B cells. Moreover, Lut suppressed TGF-β1, MMP-9, fibronectin (FN), and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) levels in LPS-stimulated BEAS-2B cells. Additionally, Lut downregulated the levels of β-catenin by modulating the β-catenin/E-cadherin and β-catenin destruction complexes, highlighting the pivotal role of β-catenin in EMT inhibition by Lut in LPS-stimulated BEAS-2B cells. Furthermore, Lut suppressed airway inflammation and attenuated EMT-associated airway remodeling through β-catenin blockade in OVA-induced asthmatic mice. The bronchial wall thickness notably reduced from 37.24 ± 4.00 μm in the asthmatic model group to 30.06 ± 4.40 μm in the Lut low-dose group and 24.69 ± 2.87 μm in the Lut high-dose group.

CONCLUSION

According to our current understanding, this research is the first to reveal that Lut diminishes airway remodeling in asthma by inhibiting EMT via β-catenin regulation, thereby filling a research gap concerning Lut and flavonoids. These results provide a theoretical basis for treating asthma with anti-asthmatic CMM, as well as a candidate and complementary therapeutic approach to treat asthma.

Tumor microenvironment and cancer metastasis: molecular mechanisms and therapeutic implications

The tumor microenvironment (TME) plays a crucial role in cancer development and metastasis. This review summarizes the current research on how the TME promotes metastasis through molecular pathways, focusing on key components, such as cancer-associated fibroblasts, immune cells, endothelial cells, cytokines, and the extracellular matrix. Significant findings have highlighted that alterations in cellular communication within the TME enable tumor cells to evade immune surveillance, survive, and invade other tissues. This review highlights the roles of TGF-β and VEGF signaling in promoting angiogenesis and extracellular matrix remodeling, which facilitate metastasis. Additionally, we explored how metabolic reprogramming of tumor and stromal cells, influenced by nutrient availability in the TME, drives cancer progression. This study also evaluated the therapeutic strategies targeting these interactions to disrupt metastasis. By providing a multidisciplinary perspective, this study suggests that understanding the molecular basis of the TME can lead to more effective cancer therapies and identify potential avenues for future research. Future research on the TME should prioritize unraveling the molecular and cellular interactions within this complex environment, which could lead to novel therapeutic strategies and personalized cancer treatments. Moreover, advancements in technologies such as single-cell analysis, spatial transcriptomics, and epigenetic profiling offer promising avenues for identifying new therapeutic targets and improving the efficacy of immunotherapies, particularly in the context of metastasis.

Ceratonia siliqua L. pod Effects on Viability Gene Expression of Endometrial Mesenchymal Stromal/Stem Cells Isolated from Women with Endometriosis-Associated Infertility

BACKGROUND

This study aims to investigate the effects of carob (Ceratonia siliqua L.) pod extract (CPE) on the viability of human endometrial mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (EnMSCs) and its impact on mRNA and protein expressions of DNA methyltransferases (DNMT1, DNMT3A, and DNMT3B), histone deacetylase 1 (HDAC1), matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP2), and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) in endometriotic patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this experimental study, EnMSCs were derived from endometrium of patients with ovarian endometrioma (OMA-EnMSCs group) and deep infiltrative endometriosis (DIE) samples of 10 endometriosisassociated infertility (EAI) women (E-EnMSCs group) and compared to EnMSCs derived from the endometrium of an endometriosis-free, normal woman as the control group (C-EnMSCs). The metabolic activity of the control and case groups were evaluated by treating them with different concentrations of CPE. Cell viability was analysed by MTT. Real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and Western blot were used to evaluate the expression of specific genes at the mRNA and protein levels, respectively.

RESULTS

Treatment with 0.8 and 2 μg/mL of CPE downregulated COX-2 and HDAC1 in the E-EnMSC group compared to the C-EnMSCs group. Treatment with 0.8 μg/mL of CPE also decreased MMP2 and DNMT3B gene expressions. The COX-2 and DNMT3A genes were significantly upregulated after treatment with 2 μg/mL of CPE. Expressions of the COX-2, HDAC1, DNMT1, DNMT3A, and DNMT3B peptides decreased in the all three groups after treatment with 0.8 and 2 μg/mL of CPE. Gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS) analysis of CPE identified 14 bioactive compounds. Molecular docking showed the best position of each bioactive compound on the different target proteins that are involved in the process of apoptosis in EnMSCs.

CONCLUSION

In vitro and in silico analyses of CPE bioactive compounds show that they may downregulate the cell inflammatory pathway involved in the pathophysiology of endometriosis.

Assessing Breast Cancer through Tumor Microenvironment Mapping of Collagen and Other Biomolecule Spectral Fingerprints─A Review

Breast cancer is a major challenge in the field of oncology, with around 2.3 million cases and around 670,000 deaths globally based on the GLOBOCAN 2022 data. Despite having advanced technologies, breast cancer remains the major type of cancer among women. This review highlights various collagen signatures and the role of different collagen types in breast tumor development, progression, and metastasis, along with the use of photoacoustic spectroscopy to offer insights into future cancer diagnostic applications without the need for surgery or other invasive techniques. Through mapping of the tumor microenvironment and spotlighting key components and their absorption wavelengths, we emphasize the need for extensive preclinical and clinical investigations.

Interplay of Glucose Metabolism and Hippo Pathway in Chondrocytes: Pathophysiology and Therapeutic Targets

In this review, we explore the intricate relationship between glucose metabolism and mechanotransduction pathways, with a specific focus on the role of the Hippo signaling pathway in chondrocyte pathophysiology. Glucose metabolism is a vital element in maintaining proper chondrocyte function, but it has also been implicated in the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis (OA) via the induction of pro-inflammatory signaling pathways and the establishment of an intracellular environment conducive to OA. Alternatively, mechanotransduction pathways such as the Hippo pathway possess the capacity to respond to mechanical stimuli and have an integral role in maintaining chondrocyte homeostasis. However, these mechanotransduction pathways can be dysregulated and potentially contribute to the progression of OA. We discussed how alterations in glucose levels may modulate the Hippo pathway components via a variety of mechanisms. Characterizing the interaction between glucose metabolism and the Hippo pathway highlights the necessity of balancing both metabolic and mechanical signaling to maintain chondrocyte health and optimal functionality. Furthermore, this review demonstrates the scarcity of the literature on the relationship between glucose metabolism and mechanotransduction and provides a summary of current research dedicated to this specific area of study. Ultimately, increased research into this topic may elucidate novel mechanisms and relationships integrating mechanotransduction and glucose metabolism. Through this review we hope to inspire future research into this topic to develop innovative treatments for addressing the clinical challenges of OA.

Heat shock proteins as hallmarks of cancer: insights from molecular mechanisms to therapeutic strategies

Heat shock proteins are essential molecular chaperones that play crucial roles in stabilizing protein structures, facilitating the repair or degradation of damaged proteins, and maintaining proteostasis and cellular functions. Extensive research has demonstrated that heat shock proteins are highly expressed in cancers and closely associated with tumorigenesis and progression. The "Hallmarks of Cancer" are the core features of cancer biology that collectively define a series of functional characteristics acquired by cells as they transition from a normal state to a state of tumor growth, including sustained proliferative signaling, evasion of growth suppressors, resistance to cell death, enabled replicative immortality, the induction of angiogenesis, and the activation of invasion and metastasis. The pivotal roles of heat shock proteins in modulating the hallmarks of cancer through the activation or inhibition of various signaling pathways has been well documented. Therefore, this review provides an overview of the roles of heat shock proteins in vital biological processes from the perspective of the hallmarks of cancer and summarizes the small-molecule inhibitors that target heat shock proteins to regulate various cancer hallmarks. Moreover, we further discuss combination therapy strategies involving heat shock proteins and promising dual-target inhibitors to highlight the potential of targeting heat shock proteins for cancer treatment. In summary, this review highlights how targeting heat shock proteins could regulate the hallmarks of cancer, which will provide valuable information to better elucidate and understand the roles of heat shock proteins in oncology and the mechanisms of cancer occurrence and development and aid in the development of more efficacious and less toxic novel anticancer agents.

Co-delivery of Liposomal Ketoconazole and Bevacizumab for Synergistical Inhibition of Angiogenesis Against Endometrial Cancer

In this study, we designed a novel formulation based on liposomes for the co-delivery of cancer-derived exosome inhibitor (ketoconazole, Keto) and angiogenesis inhibitor (bevacizumab, mAb). The designed Combo-Lipo formulation was systematically characterized, exhibiting a uniform average particle size of 100 nm, as well as excellent serum and long-term physical stabilities. The cell viability assay revealed that Combo-Lipo treatment significantly reduced the viability of cancer cells compared to free drugs. Moreover, liposomes effectively inhibited angiogenic mediators and reduced tumor immune suppressive factors. The Combo-Lipo formulation demonstrated potent downregulation of angiogenic factors and synergistic effects in suppressing their production. Furthermore, liposomes inhibited tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), leading to decreased expression of tumor-promoting factors. Together, these findings highlighted the promising characteristics of Combo-Lipo as a therapeutic formulation, including optimal particle size, serum stability, and potent anti-cancer effects, as well as inhibition of angiogenic mediators and TAMs toward treating endometrial cancer.

Harnessing Decellularized Extracellular Matrix for Enhanced Fidelity in Colorectal Cancer Organoid and Cell-Derived Xenograft Models

This study evaluates the efficacy of a decellularized intestine tissue-derived extracellular matrix (Intestine ECM) as a scaffold for culturing colorectal cancer (CRC) organoids and establishing cell-derived xenograft (CDX) models, comparing its performance to traditional Matrigel. Intestine ECM demonstrates comparable support for organoid formation and cellular function, highlighting its potential as a more physiologically relevant and reproducible platform. Our findings suggest that Intestine ECM enhances the mimetic environment for colon epithelium, supporting comparable growth and improved differentiation compared to Matrigel. Moreover, when used as a delivery carrier, Intestine ECM significantly increases the growth rate of CDX models using patient-derived primary colorectal cancer cells. This enhancement demonstrates Intestine ECM's role not only as a scaffold but also as a vital component of the tumor microenvironment, facilitating more robust tumorigenesis. These findings advocate for the broader application of Intestine ECM in cancer model systems, potentially leading to more accurate preclinical evaluations and the development of targeted cancer therapies.

Cell-homing and immunomodulatory composite hydrogels for effective wound healing with neovascularization

Wound healing in cases of excessive inflammation poses a significant challenge due to compromised neovascularization. Here, we propose a multi-functional composite hydrogel engineered to overcome such conditions through recruitment and activation of macrophages with adapted degradation of the hydrogel. The composite hydrogel (G-TSrP) is created by combining gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) and nanoparticles (TSrP) composed of tannic acid (TA) and Sr2+. These nanoparticles are prepared using a one-step mineralization process assisted by metal-phenolic network formation. G-TSrP exhibits the ability to eliminate reactive oxygen species and direct polarization of macrophages toward M2 phenotype. It has been observed that the liberation of TA and Sr2+ from G-TSrP actively facilitate the recruitment and up-regulation of the expression of extracellular matrix remodeling genes of macrophages, and thereby, coordinate in vivo adapted degradation of the G-TSrP. Most significantly, G-TSrP accelerates angiogenesis despite the TA's inhibitory properties, which are counteracted by the released Sr2+. Moreover, G-TSrP enhances wound closure under inflammation and promotes normal tissue formation with strong vessel growth. Genetic analysis confirms macrophage-mediated wound healing by the composite hydrogel. Collectively, these findings pave the way for the development of biomaterials that promote wound healing by creating regenerative environment.

Contribution of Matrix Metalloproteinase-2 Genotypes to Taiwan Pterygium Risk

BACKGROUND/AIM

In the literature, the studies about the role of matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) in pterygium diagnosis are mainly based on its protein expression. The role of MMP-2 variants has never been examined. The aim of this study was to examine the association of MMP-2 genotypes with pterygium risk.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

MMP-2 rs243865 and rs2285053 were genotyped in 140 pterygium cases and 280 non-pterygium controls by typical polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) genotyping technology.

RESULTS

The genotypic frequency of MMP-2 rs243865 CC, CT and TT were 86.4%, 12.9% and 0.7% in the pterygium group and 81.1%, 17.1% and 1.8% in the non-pterygium group (p for trend=0.3389). The variant CT and TT carriers had a 0.70- and 0.38-fold pterygium risk (95%CI=0.39-1.26 and 0.04-3.25, p=0.2982 and 0.6686, respectively). As for MMP-2 rs2285053, the genotypic frequency of CC, CT and TT were 67.1%, 28.6% and 4.3% in the pterygium group, non-significantly different from those in non-pterygium group (p for trend=0.7081). The CT and TT carriers had a 0.88- and 0.71-fold pterygium risk (95%CI=0.56-1.38 and 0.27-1.88, p=0.6612 and 0.6456, respectively). The allelic analysis results showed that MMP-2 rs243865 variant T allele was not associated with pterygium risk (7.1% versus 10.4%, OR=0.67, 95%CI=0.39-1.13, p=0.1649). As for MMP-2 rs2285053, the T allele was not associated with pterygium risk either (18.6% versus 21.1%, OR=0.85, 95%CI=0.59-1.23, p=0.4136).

CONCLUSION

The genotypes at MMP-2 rs243865 or rs2285053 played minor role in determining individual susceptibility for pterygium among Taiwanese.