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Kim JE, Jo MJ, Cho E, Ahn SY, Kwon YJ, Gim JA, Ko GJ. The Effect of DNA Methylation in the Development and Progression of Chronic Kidney Disease in the General Population: An Epigenome-Wide Association Study Using the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study Database. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:1489. [PMID: 37510393 PMCID: PMC10379047 DOI: 10.3390/genes14071489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although knowledge of the genetic factors influencing kidney disease is increasing, epigenetic profiles, which are associated with chronic kidney disease (CKD), have not been fully elucidated. We sought to identify the DNA methylation status of CpG sites associated with reduced kidney function and examine whether the identified CpG sites are associated with CKD development. METHOD We analyzed DNA methylation patterns of 440 participants in the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study (KoGES) with estimated glomerular filtration rates (eGFRs) ≥ 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 at baseline. CKD development was defined as a decrease in the eGFR of <60 at any time during an 8-year follow-up period ("CKD prediction" analysis). In addition, among the 440 participants, 49 participants who underwent a second methylation profiling were assessed for an association between a decline in kidney function and changes in the degree of methylation of CpG sites during the 8 years ("kidney function slope" analysis). RESULTS In the CKD prediction analysis, methylation profiles of a total of 403,129 CpG sites were evaluated at baseline in 440 participants, and increased and decreased methylation of 268 and 189 CpG sites, respectively, were significantly correlated with the development of CKD in multivariable logistic regression. During kidney function slope analysis using follow-up methylation profiles of 49 participants, the percent methylation changes in 913 CpG sites showed a linear relationship with the percent change in eGFR during 8 years. During functional enrichment analyses for significant CpG sites found in the CKD prediction and kidney function slope analyses, we found that those CpG sites represented MAPK, PI3K/Akt, and Rap1 pathways. In addition, three CpG sites from three genes, NPHS2, CHCHD4, and AHR, were found to be significant in the CKD prediction analysis and related to a decline in kidney function. CONCLUSION It is suggested that DNA methylation on specific genes is associated with the development of CKD and the deterioration of kidney function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji-Eun Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University Guro Hospital, Seoul 08308, Republic of Korea
| | - Min-Jee Jo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University Guro Hospital, Seoul 08308, Republic of Korea
| | - Eunjung Cho
- Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University Guro Hospital, Seoul 08308, Republic of Korea
| | - Shin-Young Ahn
- Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University Guro Hospital, Seoul 08308, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Joo Kwon
- Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University Guro Hospital, Seoul 08308, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong-An Gim
- Medical Science Research Center, Korea University College of Medicine, Korea University Guro Hospital, Seoul 08308, Republic of Korea
| | - Gang-Jee Ko
- Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University Guro Hospital, Seoul 08308, Republic of Korea
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2
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Akt1 is involved in renal fibrosis and tubular apoptosis in a murine model of acute kidney injury-to-chronic kidney disease transition. Exp Cell Res 2023; 424:113509. [PMID: 36773738 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2023.113509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2022] [Revised: 01/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
Abstract
Maladaptive repair after acute kidney injury (AKI) can predispose patients to chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, the molecular mechanism underlying the AKI-to-CKD transition remains unclear. The Akt signaling pathway has been reported to be involved in the pathological processes of both AKI and CKD. In this study, we investigated the role of Akt1 in a murine model of the AKI-to-CKD transition. Wild-type (WT) and Akt1-/- mice were subjected to unilateral ischemia-reperfusion injury (UIRI), with their kidneys harvested after two days and two, four, and six weeks after UIRI. The dynamic changes in tubulointerstitial fibrosis, markers of tubular epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and tubular apoptosis were investigated. Akt1 of the three Akt isoforms was activated during the AKI-to-CKD transition. After UIRI, tubulointerstitial fibrosis and tubular EMT were significantly increased in WT mice, but were attenuated in Akt1-/- mice. The expression of the transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1/Smad was increased in both WT and Akt1-/- mice, but was not different between the two groups. The levels of phosphorylated glycogen synthase kinase (GSK)-3β, Snail, and β-catenin in the Akt1-/- mice were lower than those in the WT mice. The number of apoptotic tubular cells and the expression of cleaved caspase-3/Bax were both lower in Akt1-/- mice than in WT mice. Genetic deletion of Akt1 was associated with attenuation of tubulointerstitial fibrosis, tubular EMT, and tubular apoptosis during the AKI-to-CKD transition. These findings were associated with TGF-β1/Akt1/GSK-3β/(Snail and β-catenin) signaling independent of TGF-β1/Smad signaling. Thus, Akt1 signaling could serve as a potential therapeutic target for inhibiting the AKI-to-CKD transition.
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3
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Liu X, Cui Y, Li J, Guan C, Cai S, Ding J, Shen J, Guan Y. Phosphatase and Tensin Homology Deleted on Chromosome 10 Inhibitors Promote Neural Stem Cell Proliferation and Differentiation. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:907695. [PMID: 35774615 PMCID: PMC9237411 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.907695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Phosphatase and tensin homology deleted on chromosome 10 (PTEN) is a tumor suppressor gene. Its encoded protein has phosphatase and lipid phosphatase activities, which regulate the growth, differentiation, migration, and apoptosis of cells. The catalytic activity of PTEN is crucial for controlling cell growth under physiological and pathological conditions. It not only affects the survival and proliferation of tumor cells, but also inhibits a variety of cell regeneration processes. The use of PTEN inhibitors is being explored as a potentially beneficial therapeutic intervention for the repair of injuries to the central nervous system. PTEN influences the proliferation and differentiation of NSCs by regulating the expression and phosphorylation of downstream molecular protein kinase B (Akt) and the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR). However, the role of PTEN inhibitors in the Akt/mTOR signaling pathway in NSC proliferation and differentiation is unclear. Dipotassium bisperoxo (picolinoto) oxovanadate (V) [bpv(pic)] is a biologically active vanadium compound that blocks PTEN dephosphorylation and suppresses its activity, and has been used as a PTEN lipid phosphatase inhibitor. Here, bpv(pic) intervention was found to significantly increase the number of rat NSCs, as determined by bromodeoxyuridine staining and the cell counting kit-8, and to increase the percentage of neurons undergoing differentiation, as shown by immunofluorescence staining. Bpv(pic) intervention also significantly increased PTEN and mTOR expression, as shown by real-time PCR analysis and western blotting. In conclusion, PTEN inhibitor bpv(pic) promotes the proliferation and differentiation of NSCs into neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojiang Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Affiliated Haian Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Yiqiu Cui
- Department of Neurosurgery, Affiliated Haian Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Jun Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Affiliated Haian Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Cheng Guan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Affiliated Haian Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Shu Cai
- Department of Neurosurgery, Affiliated Haian Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Jinrong Ding
- Department of Neurosurgery, Affiliated Haian Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Jianhong Shen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Yixiang Guan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Affiliated Haian Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
- *Correspondence: Yixiang Guan,
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4
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Morin C, Moyret-Lalle C, Mertani HC, Diaz JJ, Marcel V. Heterogeneity and dynamic of EMT through the plasticity of ribosome and mRNA translation. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2022; 1877:188718. [PMID: 35304296 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2022.188718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2022] [Revised: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Growing evidence exposes translation and its translational machinery as key players in establishing and maintaining physiological and pathological biological processes. Examining translation may not only provide new biological insight but also identify novel innovative therapeutic targets in several fields of biology, including that of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). EMT is currently considered as a dynamic and reversible transdifferentiation process sustaining the transition from an epithelial to mesenchymal phenotype, known to be mainly driven by transcriptional reprogramming. However, it seems that the characterization of EMT plasticity is challenging, relying exclusively on transcriptomic and epigenetic approaches. Indeed, heterogeneity in EMT programs was reported to depend on the biological context. Here, by reviewing the involvement of translational control, translational machinery and ribosome biogenesis characterizing the different types of EMT, from embryonic and adult physiological to pathological contexts, we discuss the added value of integrating translational control and its machinery to depict the heterogeneity and dynamics of EMT programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chloé Morin
- Inserm U1052, CNRS UMR5286, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, Université de Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Centre Léon Bérard, F-69373 Lyon Cedex 08, France; Institut Convergence PLAsCAN, 69373 Lyon cedex 08, France; DevWeCan Labex Laboratory, 69373 Lyon cedex 08, France
| | - Caroline Moyret-Lalle
- Inserm U1052, CNRS UMR5286, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, Université de Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Centre Léon Bérard, F-69373 Lyon Cedex 08, France; Institut Convergence PLAsCAN, 69373 Lyon cedex 08, France; DevWeCan Labex Laboratory, 69373 Lyon cedex 08, France
| | - Hichem C Mertani
- Inserm U1052, CNRS UMR5286, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, Université de Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Centre Léon Bérard, F-69373 Lyon Cedex 08, France; Institut Convergence PLAsCAN, 69373 Lyon cedex 08, France; DevWeCan Labex Laboratory, 69373 Lyon cedex 08, France
| | - Jean-Jacques Diaz
- Inserm U1052, CNRS UMR5286, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, Université de Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Centre Léon Bérard, F-69373 Lyon Cedex 08, France; Institut Convergence PLAsCAN, 69373 Lyon cedex 08, France; DevWeCan Labex Laboratory, 69373 Lyon cedex 08, France
| | - Virginie Marcel
- Inserm U1052, CNRS UMR5286, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, Université de Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Centre Léon Bérard, F-69373 Lyon Cedex 08, France; Institut Convergence PLAsCAN, 69373 Lyon cedex 08, France; DevWeCan Labex Laboratory, 69373 Lyon cedex 08, France.
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5
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A hotspot mutation targeting the R-RAS2 GTPase acts as a potent oncogenic driver in a wide spectrum of tumors. Cell Rep 2022; 38:110522. [PMID: 35294890 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.110522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2021] [Revised: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
A missense change in RRAS2 (Gln72 to Leu), analogous to the Gln61-to-Leu mutation of RAS oncoproteins, has been identified as a long-tail hotspot mutation in cancer and Noonan syndrome. However, the relevance of this mutation for in vivo tumorigenesis remains understudied. Here we show, using an inducible knockin mouse model, that R-Ras2Q72L triggers rapid development of a wide spectrum of tumors when somatically expressed in adult tissues. These tumors show limited overlap with those originated by classical Ras oncogenes. R-Ras2Q72L-driven tumors can be classified into different subtypes according to therapeutic susceptibility. Importantly, the most relevant R-Ras2Q72L-driven tumors are dependent on mTORC1 but independent of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase-, MEK-, and Ral guanosine diphosphate (GDP) dissociation stimulator. This pharmacological vulnerability is due to the extensive rewiring by R-Ras2Q72L of pathways that orthogonally stimulate mTORC1 signaling. These findings demonstrate that RRAS2Q72L is a bona fide oncogenic driver and unveil therapeutic strategies for patients with cancer and Noonan syndrome bearing RRAS2 mutations.
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6
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Yuan H, Wu X, Wang X, Yuan C. Chinese herbal decoction astragalus and angelica exerts its therapeutic effect on renal interstitial fibrosis through the inhibition of MAPK, PI3K-Akt and TNF signaling pathways. Genes Dis 2022; 9:510-521. [PMID: 35224164 PMCID: PMC8843878 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2020.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Revised: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 06/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Astragalus and Angelica decoction (A&A) has been clinically used as a classical traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formula in China for many years for the treatment of kidney diseases, especially renal interstitial fibrosis (RIF). However, the mechanisms underlying the therapeutic effects of A&A on RIF remains poorly understood. In the present study, systematic network pharmacology and effective experimental verification were utilized for the first time to elucidate the pharmacological efficacy and potential mechanism. The outcomes indicated that 22 active components and 87 target genes of A&A were identified and cross-referenced with RIF-associated genes, contributing to confirmation of 74 target genes of A&A for RIF. Pathway and functional enrichment analyses revealed that A&A had substantial effects on MAPK, PI3K-Akt and TNF signaling pathways. In addition, seven core targets with relatively higher betweenness and degree were identified in the constructed Chinese medicine material-chemical component-target-signal pathway network. Moreover, we verified the potential therapeutic effect of A&A in vivo (using a mouse model of RIF), confirming that A&A could effectively protect the kidney by regulating these target genes. The therapeutic effect of A&A on RIF could be attributed to its role in regulating the cell cycle, limiting the apoptosis, and inhibiting the inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Yuan
- College of Medical Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei 443002, PR China
- BGI Education Center, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518083, PR China
| | - Xuelian Wu
- College of Medical Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei 443002, PR China
| | - Xiaomin Wang
- Chumeiren Medical Cosmetic Clinic, WuJiaGang District, Yichang, Hubei 443002, PR China
| | - Chengfu Yuan
- College of Medical Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei 443002, PR China
- Corresponding author. College of Medical Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei 443002, PR China. Fax: +86 717 6396818.
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7
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Hettiarachchi SU, Li YH, Roy J, Zhang F, Puchulu-Campanella E, Lindeman SD, Srinivasarao M, Tsoyi K, Liang X, Ayaub EA, Nickerson-Nutter C, Rosas IO, Low PS. Targeted inhibition of PI3 kinase/mTOR specifically in fibrotic lung fibroblasts suppresses pulmonary fibrosis in experimental models. Sci Transl Med 2021; 12:12/567/eaay3724. [PMID: 33115948 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.aay3724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2019] [Revised: 11/24/2019] [Accepted: 06/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a lethal disease with an average life expectancy of 3 to 5 years. IPF is characterized by progressive stiffening of the lung parenchyma due to excessive deposition of collagen, leading to gradual failure of gas exchange. Although two therapeutic agents have been approved from the FDA for IPF, they only slow disease progression with little impact on outcome. To develop a more effective therapy, we have exploited the fact that collagen-producing myofibroblasts express a membrane-spanning protein, fibroblast activation protein (FAP), that exhibits limited if any expression on other cell types. Because collagen-producing myofibroblasts are only found in fibrotic tissues, solid tumors, and healing wounds, FAP constitutes an excellent marker for targeted delivery of drugs to tissues undergoing pathologic fibrosis. We demonstrate here that a low-molecular weight FAP ligand can be used to deliver imaging and therapeutic agents selectively to FAP-expressing cells. Because induction of collagen synthesis is associated with phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) activation, we designed a FAP-targeted PI3K inhibitor that selectively targets FAP-expressing human IPF lung fibroblasts and potently inhibited collagen synthesis. Moreover, we showed that administration of the inhibitor in a mouse model of IPF inhibited PI3K activation in fibrotic lungs, suppressed production of hydroxyproline (major building block of collagen), reduced collagen deposition, and increased mouse survival. Collectively, these studies suggest that a FAP-targeted PI3K inhibitor might be promising for treating IPF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suraj U Hettiarachchi
- Department of Chemistry and Institute for Drug Discovery, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Yen-Hsing Li
- Department of Chemistry and Institute for Drug Discovery, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Jyoti Roy
- Department of Chemistry and Institute for Drug Discovery, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Fenghua Zhang
- Department of Chemistry and Institute for Drug Discovery, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Estela Puchulu-Campanella
- Department of Chemistry and Institute for Drug Discovery, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Spencer D Lindeman
- Department of Chemistry and Institute for Drug Discovery, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Madduri Srinivasarao
- Department of Chemistry and Institute for Drug Discovery, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Konstantin Tsoyi
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA.,Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Xiaoliang Liang
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA.,Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Ehab A Ayaub
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | | | - Ivan O Rosas
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA.,Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Philip S Low
- Department of Chemistry and Institute for Drug Discovery, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA.
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8
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Hu X, Xu Y, Zhang Z, Tang Z, Zhang J, Luo Y, Deng W, Dong Z, Zhao Y, Na N. TSC1 Affects the Process of Renal Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury by Controlling Macrophage Polarization. Front Immunol 2021; 12:637335. [PMID: 33767704 PMCID: PMC7985265 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.637335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2020] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Renal ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) contributes to acute kidney injury (AKI), increases morbidity and mortality, and is a significant risk factor for chronic kidney disease (CKD). Macrophage infiltration is a common feature after renal IRI, and infiltrating macrophages can be polarized into the following two distinct types: M1 macrophages, i.e., classically activated macrophages, which can not only inhibit infection but also accelerate renal injury, and M2 macrophages, i.e., alternatively activated macrophages, which have a repair phenotype that can promote wound healing and subsequent fibrosis. The role of TSC1, which is a negative regulator of mTOR signaling that regulates macrophage polarization in inflammation-linked diseases, has been well documented, but whether TSC1 contributes to macrophage polarization in the process of IRI is still unknown. Here, by using a mouse model of renal ischemia-reperfusion, we found that myeloid cell-specific TSC1 knockout mice (termed Lyz-TSC1 cKO mice) had higher serum creatinine levels, more severe histological damage, and greater proinflammatory cytokine production than wild-type (WT) mice during the early phase after renal ischemia-reperfusion. Furthermore, the Lyz-TSC1 cKO mice showed attenuated renal fibrosis during the repair phase of IRI with decreased levels of M2 markers on macrophages in the operated kidneys, which was further confirmed in a cell model of hypoxia-reoxygenation (H/R) in vitro. Mechanistically, by using RNA sequencing of sorted renal macrophages, we found that the expression of most M1-related genes was upregulated in the Lyz-TSC1 cKO group (Supplemental Table 1) during the early phase. However, C/EBPβ and CD206 expression was decreased during the repair phase compared to in the WT group. Overall, our findings demonstrate that the expression of TSC1 in macrophages contributes to the whole process of IRI but serves as an inflammation suppressor during the early phase and a fibrosis promoter during the repair phase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Hu
- Department of Kidney Transplantation, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yanan Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,Savaid Medical School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zhaoqi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,Savaid Medical School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zuofu Tang
- Department of Kidney Transplantation, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jinhua Zhang
- Department of Kidney Transplantation, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - You Luo
- Department of Kidney Transplantation, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Weiming Deng
- Department of Kidney Transplantation, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhanwen Dong
- Department of Kidney Transplantation, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yong Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,Savaid Medical School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Ning Na
- Department of Kidney Transplantation, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
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9
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Yamamoto Y, Iyoda M, Tachibana S, Matsumoto K, Wada Y, Suzuki T, Iseri K, Saito T, Fukuda-Hihara K, Shibata T. Erlotinib attenuates the progression of chronic kidney disease in rats with remnant kidney. Nephrol Dial Transplant 2019; 33:598-606. [PMID: 28992288 DOI: 10.1093/ndt/gfx264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2017] [Accepted: 06/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Increasing evidence indicates that epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) has a pathogenic role in renal fibrosis. Currently no effective treatment can completely halt the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD). This study was undertaken to investigate the renoprotective effects of erlotinib, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor that can block EGFR activity in the progression of CKD and the mechanisms involved. Methods Sprague Dawley rats with 5/6 nephrectomy were administered either erlotinib or vehicle from 2 weeks after surgery and for a period of 8 weeks. Blood pressure, proteinuria and serum creatinine were measured periodically. Renal morphological investigations were performed at sacrifice. In vitro, we used normal human mesangial cells (NHMCs) and human proximal tubular cells to investigate the inhibitory effects of erlotinib on renal fibrosis-associated signaling pathways by western blotting. Results Erlotinib treatment significantly blunted the progression of CKD as evidenced by reduced levels of serum creatinine, proteinuria and renal cortical profibrogenic genes and scores of glomerulosclerosis and tubulointerstitial damage. Tubulointerstitial macrophage infiltration and multiple pro-inflammatory cytokine gene expression levels were also attenuated by erlotinib treatment. In vitro, heparin-binding epidermal growth factor-like growth factor-induced Akt and extracellular-regulated kinase (ERK) 1/2 activation in normal human mesangial cells and human proximal tubular cells was inhibited by pretreatment with erlotinib. Conclusions EGFR blocking by erlotinib protected against renal fibrosis in 5/6 nephrectomized rats via inhibition of Akt and ERK 1/2 signaling pathways, which are associated with renal fibrosis. Erlotinib also has anti-inflammatory properties, which may contribute to its renoprotective effects. Erlotinib represents a potential novel therapeutic strategy for the treatment of CKD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasutaka Yamamoto
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Showa University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masayuki Iyoda
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Showa University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shohei Tachibana
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Showa University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kei Matsumoto
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Showa University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yukihiro Wada
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Showa University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Taihei Suzuki
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Showa University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ken Iseri
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Showa University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tomohiro Saito
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Showa University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kei Fukuda-Hihara
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Showa University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takanori Shibata
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Showa University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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10
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Zhang Z, Wen H, Weng J, Feng L, Liu H, Hu X, Zeng F. Silencing of EPCAM suppresses hepatic fibrosis and hepatic stellate cell proliferation in mice with alcoholic hepatitis via the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway. Cell Cycle 2019; 18:2239-2254. [PMID: 31378124 PMCID: PMC6738525 DOI: 10.1080/15384101.2019.1642067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Alcoholic hepatitis (AH) is a severe condition developed in patients with underlying alcoholic liver disease. Epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EPCAM) plays a role in hepatitis. Therefore, the current study aimed to explore the effect of EPCAM and its potential mechanism in AH. Bioinformatic analysis was performed to screen differentially expressed genes associated with AH. AH mouse models were established through a Lieber-DeCarli liquid diet containing 4% ethanol, which were co-treated with siRNA against EPCAM or the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway inhibitor in order to investigate the effects of EPCAM and the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway on hepatic fibrosis, hepatic stellate cell (HSC) proliferation and apoptosis. The relationship between EPCAM and the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway was investigated for the purposes of elucidating the potential mechanism of EPCAM in AH. EPCAM was predicted to regulate AH progression through the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway. Silencing EPCAM or inhibition of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway inhibited the hepatic fibrosis and HSC proliferation yet induced HSC apoptosis. Moreover, silencing EPCAM was found to repress the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway as evidenced by decreased levels of Bcl2 yet increased levels of caspase-3. Collectively, silencing EPCAM could hinder AH progression by inhibiting the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway, which might serve as a potential therapeutic target for AH treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, P. R. China,CONTACT Zhi Zhang
| | - Huiqing Wen
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Jun Weng
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery II, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Lei Feng
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery II, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Hongya Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Xiaojun Hu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Fanhong Zeng
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery II, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, P. R. China
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11
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Wu J, He Y, Luo Y, Zhang L, Lin H, Liu X, Liu B, Liang C, Zhou Y, Zhou J. MiR-145-5p inhibits proliferation and inflammatory responses of RMC through regulating AKT/GSK pathway by targeting CXCL16. J Cell Physiol 2017; 233:3648-3659. [PMID: 29030988 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.26228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2017] [Accepted: 10/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Junbiao Wu
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy; The Second Affiliated Hospital; Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine; Guangzhou Guangdong P.R. China
- Postdoctoral Scientific Research of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine; Guangzhou; Guangdong P.R. China
| | - Yu He
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences; Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine; Guangzhou Guangdong P.R. China
| | - Yining Luo
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy; The Second Affiliated Hospital; Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine; Guangzhou Guangdong P.R. China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Department of Nephrology; The Second Affiliated Hospital; Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine; Guangzhou Guangdong P.R. China
| | - Hua Lin
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy; The Second Affiliated Hospital; Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine; Guangzhou Guangdong P.R. China
| | - Xusheng Liu
- Department of Nephrology; The Second Affiliated Hospital; Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine; Guangzhou Guangdong P.R. China
| | - Bihao Liu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences; Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine; Guangzhou Guangdong P.R. China
| | - Chunling Liang
- Section of Immunology & Chinese Medicine; The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese; Guangzhou Guangdong P.R. China
| | - Yuan Zhou
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences; Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine; Guangzhou Guangdong P.R. China
| | - Jiuyao Zhou
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences; Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine; Guangzhou Guangdong P.R. China
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12
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Rapamycin Ameliorates Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis by Suppressing the mTOR-STAT3 Pathway. Neurochem Res 2017; 42:2831-2840. [DOI: 10.1007/s11064-017-2296-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2016] [Accepted: 09/15/2016] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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13
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Protective effect of 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 on effector CD4+ T cell induced injury in human renal proximal tubular epithelial cells. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0172536. [PMID: 28245293 PMCID: PMC5330482 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0172536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2016] [Accepted: 02/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The aim of this study was to investigate the protective effect of 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 [1,25(OH)2D3] on effector CD4+ T cells or on inflammatory cytokine-induced injury in human renal proximal tubular epithelial cells (HRPTEpiC). Methods First, we investigated the effect of 1,25(OH)2D3 on CD4+ T cell proliferation. Second, we examined the effect of 1,25(OH)2D3 on inflammatory cytokine secretion or fibrosis in HRPTEpiC induced by inflammatory cytokines or activated CD4+ T cells using ELISA and real-time PCR. Lastly, we compared urine inflammatory-cytokine (IL-6, IL-8) or KIM-1 levels in kidney transplant recipients low serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) group (< 20 ng/mL) (n = 40) and normal 25(OH)D group (n = 50). Results Pre-incubation with 1,25(OH)2D3 significantly reduced the percentages of Th1 and Th17 cells compared to that of Th0 condition (P < 0.05 for each). In contrast, 1,25(OH)2D3 increased the proportion of Th2 and Treg cells in a dose-dependent manner (P < 0.05 for each). Treatment of HRPTEpiC with inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-17, and TGF-β) or effector CD4+ T cells resulted in increased production of IL-6, IL-8, or KIM-1 from HRPTEpiC in a dose-dependent manner. However, treatment with 1,25(OH)2D3 significantly reduced the level of these cytokines (P < 0.05 for all). Western blot analysis demonstrated that the mTOR/STAT3/ERK pathway was downregulated by 1,25(OH)2D3 in HRPTEpiC. Furthermore, the concentrations of urine IL-6/creatinine (P < 0.05) and Kim-1/creatinine (P < 0.05) were higher in the low 25(OH)D group than in the normal 25(OH)D group in kidney transplant recipients. Conclusion The results of this study suggests that vitamin D may have a significant role in the regulation of inflammation in allograft tissue in kidney transplant recipients. Trial registration All participants provided written informed consent in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki. This study was approved by the Institutional Review Board of Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital (KC13TNMI0701).
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14
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Ogawa S, Ishimura T, Miyake H, Fujisawa M. Expression profile of mammalian target of rapamycin-related proteins in graft biopsy specimens: Significance for predicting interstitial fibrosis after kidney transplantation. Int J Urol 2017; 24:223-229. [PMID: 28173612 DOI: 10.1111/iju.13287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2016] [Accepted: 11/15/2016] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the influence of the expression profile of mammalian target of rapamycin-related proteins on the development of interstitial fibrosis after kidney transplantation. METHODS Immunohistochemical staining was carried out to evaluate the expression of five mammalian target of rapamycin-related proteins (phosphorylated-Akt, Ras homolog enriched in brain, phosphorylated-mammalian target of rapamycin, phosphorylated-p70 ribosomal S6 kinase and phosphorylated-4E binding protein 1) in graft biopsy specimens obtained from 77 patients at 3 months after kidney transplantation. The change of the estimated glomerular filtration rate and the change of the fibrosis index (defined as the change in the percent area of fibrosis on Masson's trichrome-stained sections of biopsy specimens) from 3 months to 3 years after kidney transplantation were determined. RESULTS There was a significant correlation between change of the estimated glomerular filtration and change of the fibrosis index in the 77 patients. Univariate analysis identified expression of phosphorylated-Akt, phosphorylated-mammalian target of rapamycin and phosphorylated-p70 ribosomal S6 kinase, as well as donor type and pre-transplant dialysis duration, as significant predictors of a change of the fibrosis index >10%. However, only phosphorylated-mammalian target of rapamycin expression, phosphorylated-p70 ribosomal S6 kinase expression and donor type were independently associated with a change of the fibrosis index >10% according to multivariate analysis. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that mammalian target of rapamycin-related proteins are involved in the development of interstitial fibrosis after kidney transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satoshi Ogawa
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
| | - Takeshi Ishimura
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
| | - Hideaki Miyake
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
| | - Masato Fujisawa
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
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15
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Shan L, Ding Y, Fu Y, Zhou L, Dong X, Chen S, Wu H, Nai W, Zheng H, Xu W, Bai X, Jia C, Dai M. mTOR Overactivation in Mesenchymal cells Aggravates CCl 4- Induced liver Fibrosis. Sci Rep 2016; 6:36037. [PMID: 27819329 PMCID: PMC5098141 DOI: 10.1038/srep36037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2016] [Accepted: 10/10/2016] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatic stellate cells are of mesenchymal cell type located in the space of Disse. Upon liver injury, HSCs transactivate into myofibroblasts with increase in expression of fibrillar collagen, especially collagen I and III, leading to liver fibrosis. Previous studies have shown mTOR signaling is activated during liver fibrosis. However, there is no direct evidence in vivo. The aim of this study is to examine the effects of conditional deletion of TSC1 in mesenchymal on pathogenesis of liver fibrosis. Crossing mice bearing the floxed TSC1 gene with mice harboring Col1α2-Cre-ER(T) successfully generated progeny with a conditional knockout of TSC1 (TSC1 CKO) in collagen I expressing mesenchymal cells. TSC1 CKO and WT mice were subjected to CCl4, oil or CCl4+ rapamycin treatment for 8 weeks. TSC1 CKO mice developed pronounced liver fibrosis relative to WT mice, as examined by ALT, hydroxyproline, histopathology, and profibrogenic gene. Absence of TSC1 in mesenchymal cells induced proliferation and prevented apoptosis in activated HSCs. However, there were no significant differences in oil-treated TSC1 CKO and WT mice. Rapamycin, restored these phenotypic changes by preventing myofibroblasts proliferation and enhancing their apoptosis. These findings revealed mTOR overactivation in mesenchymal cells aggravates CCl4− induced liver fibrosis and the rapamycin prevent its occurance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lanlan Shan
- Department of Health Management, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, China
| | - Yan Ding
- Department of Health Management, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, China
| | - You Fu
- Department of Health Management, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, China
| | - Ling Zhou
- Department of Oncology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, China
| | - Xiaoying Dong
- Department of Health Management, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, China
| | - Shunzhi Chen
- Department of Health Management, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, China
| | - Hongyuan Wu
- Department of Health Management, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, China
| | - Wenqing Nai
- Department of Health Management, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, China
| | - Hang Zheng
- Department of Oncology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, China
| | - Wanfu Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510623, China
| | - Xiaochun Bai
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, China
| | - Chunhong Jia
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, China
| | - Meng Dai
- Department of Health Management, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, China
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16
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Chen LJ, Xu YL, Song B, Yu HM, Oudit GY, Xu R, Zhang ZZ, Jin HY, Chang Q, Zhu DL, Zhong JC. Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 ameliorates renal fibrosis by blocking the activation of mTOR/ERK signaling in apolipoprotein E-deficient mice. Peptides 2016; 79:49-57. [PMID: 27018342 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2016.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2016] [Revised: 03/06/2016] [Accepted: 03/23/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) has been shown to prevent atherosclerotic lesions and renal inflammation. However, little was elucidated upon the effects and mechanisms of ACE2 in atherosclerotic kidney fibrosis progression. Here, we examined regulatory roles of ACE2 in renal fibrosis in the apolipoprotein E (ApoE) knockout (KO) mice. The ApoEKO mice were randomized to daily deliver either angiotensin (Ang) II (1.5mg/kg) and/or human recombinant ACE2 (rhACE2; 2mg/kg) for 2 weeks. Downregulation of ACE2 and upregulation of phosphorylated Akt, mTOR and ERK1/2 levels were observed in ApoEKO kidneys. Ang II infusion led to increased tubulointerstitial fibrosis in the ApoEKO mice with greater activation of the mTOR/ERK1/2 signaling. The Ang II-mediated renal fibrosis and structural injury were strikingly rescued by rhACE2 supplementation, associated with reduced mRNA expression of TGF-β1 and collagen I and elevated renal Ang-(1-7) levels. In cultured mouse kidney fibroblasts, exposure with Ang II (100nmolL(-1)) resulted in obvious elevations in superoxide generation, phosphorylated levels of mTOR and ERK1/2 as well as mRNA levels of TGF-β1, collagen I and fibronectin 1, which were dramatically prevented by rhACE2 (1mgmL(-1)) or mTOR inhibitor rapamycin (10μmolL(-1)). These protective effects of rhACE2 were eradicated by the Ang-(1-7)/Mas receptor antagonist A779 (1μmolL(-1)). Our results demonstrate the importance of ACE2 in amelioration of kidney fibrosis and renal injury in the ApoE-mutant mice via modulation of the mTOR/ERK signaling and renal Ang-(1-7)/Ang II balance, thus indicating potential therapeutic strategies by enhancing ACE2 action for preventing atherosclerosis and fibrosis-associated kidney disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lai-Jiang Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Pôle Sino-Français de Recherches en Science du Vivant et Génomique, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hypertension, Shanghai Institute of Hypertension, Shanghai 200025, China; Institute of Health Sciences, Shanghai Institute for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Ying-Le Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Pôle Sino-Français de Recherches en Science du Vivant et Génomique, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hypertension, Shanghai Institute of Hypertension, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Bei Song
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Pôle Sino-Français de Recherches en Science du Vivant et Génomique, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hypertension, Shanghai Institute of Hypertension, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Hui-Min Yu
- Department of Cardiology, Guangdong General Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences and Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Gavin Y Oudit
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Mazankowski Alberta Heart Institute, Edmonton T6G 2S2, Canada
| | - Ran Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Pôle Sino-Français de Recherches en Science du Vivant et Génomique, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hypertension, Shanghai Institute of Hypertension, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Zhen-Zhou Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Pôle Sino-Français de Recherches en Science du Vivant et Génomique, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hypertension, Shanghai Institute of Hypertension, Shanghai 200025, China; Institute of Health Sciences, Shanghai Institute for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Hai-Yan Jin
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Pôle Sino-Français de Recherches en Science du Vivant et Génomique, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hypertension, Shanghai Institute of Hypertension, Shanghai 200025, China; Department of Mental Health, Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Qing Chang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Pôle Sino-Français de Recherches en Science du Vivant et Génomique, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hypertension, Shanghai Institute of Hypertension, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Ding-Liang Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Pôle Sino-Français de Recherches en Science du Vivant et Génomique, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hypertension, Shanghai Institute of Hypertension, Shanghai 200025, China; Institute of Health Sciences, Shanghai Institute for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Jiu-Chang Zhong
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Pôle Sino-Français de Recherches en Science du Vivant et Génomique, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hypertension, Shanghai Institute of Hypertension, Shanghai 200025, China; Institute of Health Sciences, Shanghai Institute for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200025, China.
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17
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Muñoz-Félix JM, Fuentes-Calvo I, Cuesta C, Eleno N, Crespo P, López-Novoa JM, Martínez-Salgado C. Absence of K-Ras Reduces Proliferation and Migration But Increases Extracellular Matrix Synthesis in Fibroblasts. J Cell Physiol 2016; 231:2224-35. [PMID: 26873620 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.25340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2015] [Accepted: 02/10/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The involvement of Ras-GTPases in the development of renal fibrosis has been addressed in the last decade. We have previously shown that H- and N-Ras isoforms participate in the regulation of fibrosis. Herein, we assessed the role of K-Ras in cellular processes involved in the development of fibrosis: proliferation, migration, and extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins synthesis. K-Ras knockout (KO) mouse embryonic fibroblasts (K-ras(-/-) ) stimulated with transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) exhibited reduced proliferation and impaired mobility than wild-type fibroblasts. Moreover, an increase on ECM production was observed in K-Ras KO fibroblasts in basal conditions. The absence of K-Ras was accompanied by reduced Ras activation and ERK phosphorylation, and increased AKT phosphorylation, but no differences were observed in TGF-β1-induced Smad signaling. The MEK inhibitor U0126 decreased cell proliferation independently of the presence of K-ras but reduced migration and ECM proteins expression only in wild-type fibroblasts, while the PI3K-AKT inhibitor LY294002 decreased cell proliferation, migration, and ECM synthesis in both types of fibroblasts. Thus, our data unveil that K-Ras and its downstream effector pathways distinctively regulate key biological processes in the development of fibrosis. Moreover, we show that K-Ras may be a crucial mediator in TGF-β1-mediated effects in this cell type. J. Cell. Physiol. 231: 2224-2235, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- José M Muñoz-Félix
- Unidad de Fisiopatología Renal y Cardiovascular, Departamento de Fisiología y Farmacología, Instituto "Reina Sofía" de Investigación Nefrológica, Universidad de Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca (IBSAL), Salamanca, Spain
| | - Isabel Fuentes-Calvo
- Unidad de Fisiopatología Renal y Cardiovascular, Departamento de Fisiología y Farmacología, Instituto "Reina Sofía" de Investigación Nefrológica, Universidad de Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca (IBSAL), Salamanca, Spain
| | - Cristina Cuesta
- Unidad de Fisiopatología Renal y Cardiovascular, Departamento de Fisiología y Farmacología, Instituto "Reina Sofía" de Investigación Nefrológica, Universidad de Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca (IBSAL), Salamanca, Spain
| | - Nélida Eleno
- Unidad de Fisiopatología Renal y Cardiovascular, Departamento de Fisiología y Farmacología, Instituto "Reina Sofía" de Investigación Nefrológica, Universidad de Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca (IBSAL), Salamanca, Spain
| | - Piero Crespo
- Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Biología Molecular, Instituto de Biomedicina y Biotecnología de Cantabria, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas-IDICAN-Universidad de Cantabria, Santander, Spain
| | - José M López-Novoa
- Unidad de Fisiopatología Renal y Cardiovascular, Departamento de Fisiología y Farmacología, Instituto "Reina Sofía" de Investigación Nefrológica, Universidad de Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca (IBSAL), Salamanca, Spain
| | - Carlos Martínez-Salgado
- Unidad de Fisiopatología Renal y Cardiovascular, Departamento de Fisiología y Farmacología, Instituto "Reina Sofía" de Investigación Nefrológica, Universidad de Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca (IBSAL), Salamanca, Spain.,Instituto de Estudios de Ciencias de la Salud de Castilla y León (IECSCYL), Unidad de Investigación, Hospital Universitario de Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
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18
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Yang C, Cao Y, Zhang Y, Li L, Xu M, Long Y, Rong R, Zhu T. Cyclic helix B peptide inhibits ischemia reperfusion-induced renal fibrosis via the PI3K/Akt/FoxO3a pathway. J Transl Med 2015; 13:355. [PMID: 26554357 PMCID: PMC4641348 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-015-0699-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2015] [Accepted: 10/15/2015] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Renal fibrosis is a main cause of end-stage renal disease. Clinically, there is no beneficial treatment that can effectively reverse the progressive loss of renal function. We recently synthesized a novel proteolysis-resistant cyclic helix B peptide (CHBP) that exhibits promising renoprotective effects. In this study, we evaluated the effect of CHBP on renal fibrosis in an in vivo ischemia reperfusion injury (IRI) model and in vitro TGF-β-stimulated tubular epithelial cells (TCMK-1 and HK-2) model. In the IRI in vivo model, mice were randomly divided into sham (sham operation), IR and IR + CHBP groups (n = 6). CHBP (8 nmol/kg) was administered intraperitoneally at the onset of reperfusion, and renal fibrosis was evaluated at 12 weeks post-reperfusion. Our results showed that CHBP markedly attenuated the IRI-induced deposition of collagen I and
vimentin. In the in vitro model, CHBP reversed the TGF-β-induced down-regulation of E-cadherin and up-regulation of α-SMA and vimentin. Furthermore, CHBP inhibited the phosphorylation of Akt and Forkhead box O 3a (FoxO3a), whose anti-fibrotic effect could be reversed by the 3-phosphoinositide-dependent kinase-1 (PI3K) inhibitor wortmannin as well as FoxO3a siRNA. These findings demonstrate that CHBP attenuates renal fibrosis and the epithelial-mesenchymal transition of tubular cells, possibly through suppression of the PI3K/Akt pathway
and thereby the inhibition FoxO3a activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Yang
- Department of Urology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China. .,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, 180 Fenglin Road, Shanghai, 200032, China. .,Department of Plastic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| | - Ye Cao
- Department of Chinese Traditional Medicine, Shanghai University of Chinese Traditional Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China. .,The Faculty of Life Science and Computing, London Metropolitan University, London, N7 8DB, UK.
| | - Yi Zhang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, 180 Fenglin Road, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| | - Long Li
- Department of Urology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China. .,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, 180 Fenglin Road, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| | - Ming Xu
- Department of Urology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China. .,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, 180 Fenglin Road, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| | - Yaqiu Long
- CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China.
| | - Ruiming Rong
- Department of Urology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China. .,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, 180 Fenglin Road, Shanghai, 200032, China. .,Department of Transfusion, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| | - Tongyu Zhu
- Department of Urology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China. .,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, 180 Fenglin Road, Shanghai, 200032, China. .,Qingpu Branch Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, 1158 Gongyuan Road East, Shanghai, 201700, China.
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19
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Huang Y, Chen JB, Yang B, Shen H, Liang JJ, Luo Q. RhoA/ROCK pathway regulates hypoxia-induced myocardial cell apoptosis. ASIAN PAC J TROP MED 2014; 7:884-8. [DOI: 10.1016/s1995-7645(14)60154-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2014] [Revised: 09/10/2014] [Accepted: 10/15/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
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20
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Lan A, Du J. Potential role of Akt signaling in chronic kidney disease. Nephrol Dial Transplant 2014; 30:385-94. [PMID: 24891436 DOI: 10.1093/ndt/gfu196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Renal fibrosis, particularly tubulointerstitial fibrosis, is the common final outcome of almost all chronic kidney diseases. However, the mechanisms involved in the development of renal fibrosis are poorly understood. The Akt (also known as protein kinase B, PKB) family is serine/threonine protein kinases that play critical roles in regulating growth, proliferation, survival, metabolism and other cellular activities. Cytokines, high-glucose medium, transforming growth factor-β1 or advanced glycation end-products activate Akt in different renal cells. Increased Akt activation has been found in experimental tubulointerstitial fibrosis. In addition, Akt activation is also an important node in diverse signaling cascades involved in kidney damage. These data give evidence for a role for Akt in renal fibrosis, but no reviews are available on the role of Akt in the process. Thus, our aim is to review the role of Akt activation and signaling in renal fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aiping Lan
- The Key Laboratory of Remodeling-related Cardiovascular Diseases, Ministry of Education, Beijing An Zhen Hospital, Institute of Heart Lung and Blood Vessel Diseases, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Jie Du
- The Key Laboratory of Remodeling-related Cardiovascular Diseases, Ministry of Education, Beijing An Zhen Hospital, Institute of Heart Lung and Blood Vessel Diseases, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100029, China
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21
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Fuentes-Calvo I, Crespo P, Santos E, López-Novoa JM, Martínez-Salgado C. The small GTPase N-Ras regulates extracellular matrix synthesis, proliferation and migration in fibroblasts. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2013; 1833:2734-2744. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2013.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2012] [Revised: 07/09/2013] [Accepted: 07/10/2013] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
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Runyan CE, Liu Z, Schnaper HW. Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase and Rab5 GTPase inversely regulate the Smad anchor for receptor activation (SARA) protein independently of transforming growth factor-β1. J Biol Chem 2012; 287:35815-24. [PMID: 22942286 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m112.380493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
SARA has been shown to be a regulator of epithelial cell phenotype, with reduced expression during TGF-β1-mediated epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. Examination of the pathways that might play a role in regulating SARA expression identified phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) pathway inhibition as sufficient to reduce SARA expression. The mechanism of PI3K inhibition-mediated SARA down-regulation differs from that induced by TGF-β1 in that, unlike TGF-β1, PI3K-dependent depletion of SARA was apparent within 6 h and did not occur at the mRNA or promoter level but was blocked by inhibition of proteasome-mediated degradation. This effect was independent of Akt activity because neither reducing nor enhancing Akt activity modulated the expression of SARA. Therefore, this is likely a direct effect of p85α action, and co-immunoprecipitation of SARA and p85α confirmed that these proteins interact. Both SARA and PI3K have been shown to be associated with endosomes, and either LY294002 or p85α knockdown enlarged SARA-containing endocytic vesicles. Inhibition of clathrin-mediated endocytosis blocked SARA down-regulation, and a localization-deficient mutant SARA was protected against down-regulation. As inhibiting PI3K can activate the endosomal fusion-regulatory small GTPase Rab5, we expressed GTPase-deficient Rab5 and observed endosomal enlargement and reduced SARA protein expression, similar to that seen with PI3K inhibition. Importantly, either interference with PI3K via LY294002 or p85α knockdown, or constitutive activity of the Rab5 pathway, enhanced the expression of smooth muscle α-actin. Together, these data suggest that although TGF-β1 can induce epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition through reduction in SARA expression, SARA is also basally regulated by its interaction with PI3K.
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Affiliation(s)
- Constance E Runyan
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois 60611, USA.
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The functional role of PI3K in maintenance of blood pressure and baroreflex suppression in (mRen2)27 and mRen2.Lewis rat. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol 2012; 58:367-73. [PMID: 21697727 DOI: 10.1097/fjc.0b013e31822555ca] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
The phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)-dependent signaling pathway in brain of spontaneously hypertensive rats, but not Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats, contributes to elevated mean arterial pressure (MAP). The role of PI3K in the regulation of blood pressure or autonomic function in the nucleus tractus solitarii (NTS) is yet to be established in other Ang II-dependent models of hypertension. Thus, we microinjected PI3K inhibitors, wortmannin or LY294002, into the NTS, and measured MAP, baroreflex sensitivity (BRS) for heart rate (HR) control, and HR variability (HRV) in mRen2.Lewis congenic and (mRen2)27 transgenic rats. Bilateral NTS microinjections of wortmannin (100 nmol/L; 50 nL) reduced MAP in (mRen2)27 and mRen2.Lewis rats (33 ± 5 mm Hg, n = 7, and 32 ± 6 mm Hg, n = 9, respectively) for approximately 90 minutes. Spectral and sequence analysis showed improvements in spontaneous BRS and HRV (50%-100%) after treatment in both hypertensive strains. Injections of wortmannin into NTS of Hannover Sprague-Dawley or Lewis control rats failed to alter MAP, BRS, or HRV. In mRen2.Lewis, but not in control Lewis rats, LY294002 (50 μmole/L) reduced MAP and increased BRS and HRV similar to wortmannin. Thus, the pharmacologic blockade of the PI3K signaling pathway in NTS reveals an important contribution to resting MAP and BRS in rats with overexpression of the Ren2 gene.
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Ceri M, Unverdi S, Dogan M, Unverdi H, Karaca G, Kocak G, Kurultak I, Akbal E, Can M, Duranay M. Effect of sirolimus on the regression of peritoneal sclerosis in an experimental rat model. Int Urol Nephrol 2012; 44:977-82. [PMID: 22528580 DOI: 10.1007/s11255-012-0167-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2011] [Accepted: 03/20/2012] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory agents have recently become increasingly popular in the treatment of encapsulating peritoneal sclerosis (EPS). The aim of our study was to investigate the effects of sirolimus on EPS in a rat model. METHODS We separated 32 non-uremic rats into four groups: 1 control group, 2 ml isotonic saline injected IP daily for 3 weeks; 2 chlorhexidine gluconate (CG) group, 2 ml 0,1 % CG and 15 % ethanol dissolved in saline injected IP daily for 3 weeks; 3 resting group, CG (weeks 0-3) plus peritoneal rest (weeks 3-6); 4 sirolimus group, CG (weeks 0-3), plus 0.2 ml (1 mg/ml) sirolimus (weeks 3-6). Pathological samples were examined by using hematoxylin eosin (HE) and Masson's trichrome stains. Peritoneal thickness, fibrosis, vascular changes, and inflammation were evaluated by light microscopy. Finally, tissue metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunoassay. RESULTS In the CG group, there was a significant increase in peritoneal thickness, inflammatory activity, and fibrosis score compared to the control group (p < 0.05). We also observed a lower fibrosis score and less peritoneal thickening in the sirolimus group compared to the resting and CG groups (p < 0.05). There was no difference in histopathologic findings, except for the inflammatory activity in the sirolimus group, compared to the control group. Although the CG group had higher tissue MMP-2 levels than the control group, the tissue MMP-2 levels were not significantly different from the other groups. CONCLUSIONS Sirolimus has a beneficial effect on peritoneal fibrosis induced by CG. This suggests that sirolimus may have therapeutic value in the management of EPS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mevlut Ceri
- Department of Nephrology, Ankara Education and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey.
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Rapamycin ameliorates kidney fibrosis by inhibiting the activation of mTOR signaling in interstitial macrophages and myofibroblasts. PLoS One 2012; 7:e33626. [PMID: 22470459 PMCID: PMC3314672 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0033626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2011] [Accepted: 02/14/2012] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Interstitial fibrosis is an inevitable outcome of all kinds of progressive chronic kidney disease (CKD). Emerging data indicate that rapamycin can ameliorate kidney fibrosis by reducing the interstitial infiltrates and accumulation of extra cellular matrix (ECM). However, the cellular mechanism that regulates those changes has not been well understood yet. In this study, we revealed the persistent activation of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling in the interstitial macrophages and myofibroblasts, but rarely in injured proximal epithelial cells, CD4+ T cells, neutrophils, or endothelial cells, during the development of kidney fibrosis. Administration of rapamycin to unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) mice significantly suppressed the immunoreactivity of mTOR signaling, which decreased the inflammatory responses and ECM accumulation in the obstructed kidneys. Isolated macrophages from rapamycin-treated obstructed kidneys presented less inflammatory activity than vehicle groups. In vitro study confirmed that rapamycin significantly inhibited the fibrogenic activation of cultured fibroblasts (NIH3T3 cells), which was induced by the stimulation of TGF-β(1). Further experiment revealed that rapamycin did not directly inhibit the fibrogenesis of HK2 cells with aristolochic acid treatment. Our findings clarified that rapamycin can ameliorate kidney fibrosis by blocking the mTOR signaling in interstitial macrophages and myofibroblasts.
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Fuentes-Calvo I, Blázquez-Medela AM, Eleno N, Santos E, López-Novoa JM, Martínez-Salgado C. H-Ras isoform modulates extracellular matrix synthesis, proliferation, and migration in fibroblasts. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2011; 302:C686-97. [PMID: 22094331 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00103.2011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Ras GTPases are ubiquitous plasma membrane transducers of extracellular stimuli. In addition to their role as oncogenes, Ras GTPases are key regulators of cell function. Each of the Ras isoforms exhibits specific modulatory activity on different cellular pathways. This has prompted researchers to determine the pathophysiological roles of each isoform. There is a proven relationship between the signaling pathways of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) and Ras GTPases. To assess the individual role of H-Ras oncogene in basal and TGF-β1-mediated extracellular matrix (ECM) synthesis, proliferation, and migration in fibroblasts, we analyzed these processes in embryonic fibroblasts obtained from H-Ras knockout mice (H-ras(-/-)). We found that H-ras(-/-) fibroblasts exhibited a higher basal phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt activation than wild-type (WT) fibroblasts, whereas MEK/ERK 1/2 activation was similar in both types of cells. Fibronectin and collagen synthesis were higher in H-ras(-/-) fibroblasts and proliferation was lower in H-ras(-/-) than in WT fibroblasts. Moreover, H-Ras appeared indispensable to maintain normal fibroblast motility, which was highly restricted in H-ras(-/-) cells. These results suggest that H-Ras (through downregulation of PI3K/Akt activation) could modulate fibroblast activity by reducing ECM synthesis and upregulating both proliferation and migration. TGF-β1 strongly increased ERK and Akt activation in WT but not in H-ras(-/-) fibroblasts, suggesting that H-Ras is necessary to increase ERK 1/2 activation and to maintain PI3K downregulation in TGF-β1-stimulated fibroblasts. TGF-β1 stimulated ECM synthesis and proliferation, although ECM synthesis was higher and proliferation lower in H-ras(-/-) than in WT fibroblasts. Hence, H-Ras activation seems to play a key role in the regulation of these effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Fuentes-Calvo
- Unidad de Fisiopatología Renal y Cardiovascular, Instituto “Reina Sofía” de Investigación Nefrológica, Departamento de Fisiología y Farmacología, Universidad de Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
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Grande MT, Arévalo M, Núñez A, Cannata-Andía JB, Santos E, López-Novoa JM. Targeted genomic disruption of H-ras and N-ras has no effect on early renal changes after unilateral ureteral ligation. World J Urol 2011; 27:787-97. [PMID: 19288266 DOI: 10.1007/s00345-009-0399-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2008] [Accepted: 02/23/2009] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess the contribution of two different Ras monomeric GTPases isoforms H- and N-Ras in the early changes associated to obstructive nephropathy induced by unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO). METHODS UUO was performed in N-ras (N-ras−/−) and H-ras (H-ras−/−) knock-out mice and control (H-ras+/+/N-ras+/+) mice of C57Bl/6 background. Fibronectin, α-smooth muscle actin, cleaved caspase-3, ki-67, Ras-GTP, pERK, and pAkt expression was analyzed by western blot and/or immunohistochemistry. Ras isoforms activation and caspase activity were determined by both western blot and ELISA. RESULTS Three days after UUO, obstructed (O) kidneys of H-ras−/−, N-ras−/−and H-ras+/+/N-ras+/+mice showed no significant differences in activated total ras, pERK1/2, pAkt, total Akt levels, fibronectin, α-SMA expression, cell proliferation, and activated caspase-3. The morphological alterations in the O kidneys, revealed by histological and immunohistochemical studies, were also similar in H-ras−/−, N-ras−/−, and H-ras+/+/N-ras+/+mice. CONCLUSIONS These data suggest that the activation of H-ras and N-ras isoforms does not play a major role in the early renal damage induced by UUO.
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Affiliation(s)
- María T Grande
- Departamento de Fisiología y Farmacología, Instituto Reina Sofía de Investigación Nefrológica, Universidad de Salamanca, Edificio Departamental, Campus Miguel de Unamuno, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
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Siegel N, Rosner M, Unbekandt M, Fuchs C, Slabina N, Dolznig H, Davies JA, Lubec G, Hengstschläger M. Contribution of human amniotic fluid stem cells to renal tissue formation depends on mTOR. Hum Mol Genet 2010; 19:3320-31. [PMID: 20542987 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddq236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Human amniotic fluid stem cells (hAFSCs) can be grown in large quantities, have a low risk for tumour development and harbour a high differentiation potential. They are a very promising new fetal stem cell type for cell-based therapy approaches and for studying differentiation processes without raising the ethical concerns associated with embryonic stem cells. Recently, a protocol for studies on renal development has been established in which murine embryonic kidneys are dissociated into single-cell suspension and then reaggregated to form organotypic renal structures. Using this approach, we formed chimeric renal structures via mixing murine embryonic kidney cells with monoclonal hAFSCs. We demonstrate here that hAFSCs harbour the potential to contribute to renal tissue formation accompanied by induction of specific renal marker expression. As part of the two kinase complexes mTORC1 and mTORC2, mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) is the key component of an important signalling pathway, which is involved in the regulation of differentiation and in the development of a wide variety of human genetic diseases many with characteristic kidney symptoms. Modulating endogenous mTOR activity via specific siRNA approaches revealed that contribution of hAFSCs to renal tissue formation is regulated by mTORC1 and mTORC2. These findings (i) demonstrate renal differentiation potential of hAFSCs, (ii) prove chimeric cultures of mixtures of murine embryonic kidney cells and hAFSCs to be a powerful tool to study the effects of gene knockdowns for renal structure formation and (iii) provide new insights into the role of the mTOR pathway for renal development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicol Siegel
- Institute of Medical Genetics, Medical University of Vienna, Währinger Strasse 10, 1090 Vienna, Austria
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The molecular mediators of type 2 epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) and their role in renal pathophysiology. Expert Rev Mol Med 2010; 12:e17. [PMID: 20504380 DOI: 10.1017/s1462399410001481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Common to all forms of chronic kidney disease is the progressive scarring of the tubulo-interstitial space, associated with the acquisition and accumulation of activated myofibroblasts. Many of these myofibroblasts are generated when tubular epithelial cells progressively lose their epithelial characteristics (cell-cell contact, microvilli, tight-junction proteins, apical-basal polarity) and acquire features of a mesenchymal lineage, including stress fibres, filopodia and augmented matrix synthesis. This process, known as epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), plays an important role in progressive kidney disease. For EMT to occur in tubular cells, the transcriptional activation (and derepression) of genes required to sustain mesenchymal-type structures and functions (e.g. vimentin, alpha-smooth muscle actin) must occur alongside repression (or deactivation) of genes that act to maintain the epithelial phenotype (e.g. E-cadherin, bone morphogenic protein 7). Several factors have been suggested as potential initiators of EMT. With a few key exceptions, these triggers require the induction of transforming growth factor beta (TGF-beta) and downstream mediators, including SMADs, CTGF, ILK and SNAI1. Activation of TGF-beta receptors is also able to stimulate a range of additional pathways (so-called non-SMAD activation), including RhoA, mitogen-activated protein kinase and phosphoinositide 3-kinase signalling cascades, that also contribute to EMT and renal fibrogenesis. This review examines in detail the molecular mediators of EMT in tubular cells and its potential role as a long-lasting mediator of metabolic stress.
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Dalla Costa AP, Clemente CFMZ, Carvalho HF, Carvalheira JB, Nadruz W, Franchini KG. FAK mediates the activation of cardiac fibroblasts induced by mechanical stress through regulation of the mTOR complex. Cardiovasc Res 2009; 86:421-31. [PMID: 20038548 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvp416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS Cardiac fibroblasts are activated by mechanical stress, but the underlying mechanisms involved remain poorly understood. In this study, we investigated whether focal adhesion kinase (FAK) plays a role in the activation of cardiac fibroblasts in response to cyclic stretch. METHODS AND RESULTS Neonatal (NF-P3/80--third passage, 80% confluence) and adult (AF-P1/80--first passage, 80% confluence) rat cardiac fibroblasts were exposed to cyclic stretch (biaxial, 1 Hz), which enhanced FAK phosphorylation at Tyr397. Proliferation (anti-5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine and anti-Ki67 nuclear labelling), differentiation into myofibroblasts (expression of alpha-smooth muscle actin--alpha-SMA), and the activity of matrix metalloproteinase-2 were equally enhanced in stretched NF-P3/80 and AF-P1/80. Treatment with the integrin inhibitor RGD peptide impaired FAK phosphorylation and increased apoptosis (TUNEL) in non-stretched and stretched NF-P3/80, whereas FAK silencing induced by small interfering RNA modestly enhanced apoptosis only in stretched cells. RGD peptide or FAK silencing suppressed the activation of NF-P3/80 invoked by cyclic stretch. In addition, NF-P3/80 depleted of FAK were defective in AKT Ser473, TSC-2 Thr1462, and S6 kinase Thr389 phosphorylation induced by cyclic stretch. The activation of NF-P3/80 invoked by cyclic stretch was prevented by pre-treatment with the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitor rapamycin, whereas supplementation with the amino acid, leucine, activated S6K and rescued the stretch-induced activation of NF-P3/80 depleted of FAK. CONCLUSIONS These findings demonstrate a critical role for the mTOR complex, downstream from FAK, in mediating the activation of cardiac fibroblasts in response to mechanical stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Paula Dalla Costa
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine and Department of Cell Biology, State University of Campinas, Campinas, SP, Brazil
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Abstract
Chronic kidney disease may be stimulated by many different etiologies, but its progression involves a common, yet complex, series of events that lead to the replacement of normal tissue with scar. These events include altered physiology within the kidney leading to abnormal hemodynamics, chronic hypoxia, inflammation, cellular dysfunction, and activation of fibrogenic biochemical pathways. The end result is the replacement of normal structures with extracellular matrix. Treatments presently are focused on delaying or preventing such progression, and are largely nonspecific. In pediatrics, such therapy is complicated further by pathophysiological issues that render children a unique population.
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Therapeutic role of sirolimus in non-transplant kidney disease. Pharmacol Ther 2009; 123:187-206. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2009.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2009] [Accepted: 03/24/2009] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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Samuel CS, Mookerjee I, Halls ML, Summers RJ, Chew E, Bathgate RAD, Tregear GW, Hewitson TD. Investigations into the Inhibitory Effects of Relaxin on Renal Myofibroblast Differentiation. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2009; 1160:294-9. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1749-6632.2008.03823.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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Mookerjee I, Hewitson TD, Halls ML, Summers RJ, Mathai ML, Bathgate RAD, Tregear GW, Samuel CS. Relaxin inhibits renal myofibroblast differentiation via RXFP1, the nitric oxide pathway, and Smad2. FASEB J 2008; 23:1219-29. [PMID: 19073841 DOI: 10.1096/fj.08-120857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The hormone relaxin inhibits renal myofibroblast differentiation by interfering with TGF-beta1/Smad2 signaling. However, the pathways involved in the relaxin-TGF-beta1/Smad2 interaction remain unknown. This study investigated the signaling mechanisms by which human gene-2 (H2) relaxin regulates myofibroblast differentiation in vitro by examining its effects on mixed populations of fibroblasts and myofibroblasts propagated from injured rat kidneys. Cultures containing approximately 60-70% myofibroblasts were used to determine which relaxin receptors, G-proteins, and signaling pathways were involved in the H2 relaxin-mediated regulation of alpha-smooth muscle actin (alpha-SMA; a marker of myofibroblast differentiation). H2 relaxin only inhibited alpha-SMA immunostaining and collagen concentration in the presence of relaxin family peptide receptor 1 (RXFP1). H2 relaxin also induced a transient rise in cAMP in the presence of G(i/o) inhibition, and a sustained increase in extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)-1/2 phosphorylation. Furthermore, inhibition of neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS), NO, and cGMP significantly blocked the inhibitory effects of relaxin on alpha-SMA and Smad2 phosphorylation, while the NO inhibitor, L-nitroarginine methyl ester (hydrochloride) (L-NAME) significantly blocked the inhibitory actions of relaxin on collagen concentration in vivo. These findings suggest that relaxin signals through RXFP1, and a nNOS-NO-cGMP-dependent pathway to inhibit Smad2 phosphorylation and interfere with TGF-beta1-mediated renal myofibroblast differentiation and collagen production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ishanee Mookerjee
- Howard Florey Institute, University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Abstract
Chronic unilateral ureteral obstruction is a well characterized model of renal injury leading to tubulointerstitial fibrosis and distinct patterns of cell proliferation and apoptosis in the obstructed kidney. In this study we assessed the contribution of the mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK)-ERK1/2 and the phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase (PI3K)-Akt pathways to early renal changes following unilateral obstruction. Increased activation of small Ras GTPase and its downstream effectors ERK1/2 and Akt was detected in ligated kidneys. The use of specific pharmacological inhibitors to either ERK1/2 or Akt activation led to decreased levels of fibroblast-myofibroblast markers in the interstitium while inhibition of PI3K reduced the number of proliferating cells and the amount of interstitial extracellular matrix deposition. Treatment with an ERK1/2 inhibitor diminished the number of apoptotic tubule and interstitial cells. Our results suggest a role for the MAPK-ERK1/2 and PI3K-Akt systems in early changes induced by ureteral obstruction and that inhibition of these signaling pathways may provide a novel approach to prevent progression of renal fibrosis.
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Ide T, Kitajima Y, Miyoshi A, Ohtsuka T, Mitsuno M, Ohtaka K, Miyazaki K. The hypoxic environment in tumor-stromal cells accelerates pancreatic cancer progression via the activation of paracrine hepatocyte growth factor/c-Met signaling. Ann Surg Oncol 2007; 14:2600-7. [PMID: 17534684 DOI: 10.1245/s10434-007-9435-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2007] [Accepted: 04/05/2007] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pancreatic cancer is one of the representative solid tumors, in which the hypoxic microenvironment plays a crucial role in malignant progression. We previously demonstrated that tumor-stromal interaction under hypoxia enhances the invasiveness of pancreatic cancer cells through hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)/c-Met signaling. METHODS We investigated the immunohistochemical expression of hypoxia inducible factor-1alpha (HIF-1alpha) c-Met, and HGF in both cancer and stromal cells using 41 pancreatic cancer tissue specimens, and tried to identify any correlations with the clinical features and survival. RESULTS Positive staining for HIF-1alpha was observed in both pancreatic cancer and the surrounding stromal cells in more than 30% of the cases, and it significantly correlated with lymph node metastasis (P < .05). A significant correlation was observed between the expression of HIF-1alpha and HGF in stromal cells (P < .05). In addition, the c-Met expression in cancer cells was found to significantly correlate with the HGF expression in not only cancer but also stromal cells. The disease-free survival rates of the patients with HIF-1alpha in cancer, stromal, c-Met in cancer, and an HGF expression in stromal cells was significantly worse than those without such expressions (P < .05). CONCLUSIONS These data suggest that the HGF/c-Met signaling via HIF-1alpha ?may therefore negatively affect the prognosis in patients with pancreatic cancer, and targeting tumor stroma under hypoxia might thus be potentially useful as a novel therapy for this cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takao Ide
- Department of Surgery, Saga University Faculty of Medicine, Saga, Japan
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Kang HR, Lee CG, Homer RJ, Elias JA. Semaphorin 7A plays a critical role in TGF-beta1-induced pulmonary fibrosis. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007; 204:1083-93. [PMID: 17485510 PMCID: PMC2118575 DOI: 10.1084/jem.20061273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 141] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Semaphorin (SEMA) 7A regulates neuronal and immune function. In these studies, we tested the hypothesis that SEMA 7A is also a critical regulator of tissue remodeling. These studies demonstrate that SEMA 7A and its receptors, plexin C1 and β1 integrins, are stimulated by transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 in the murine lung. They also demonstrate that SEMA 7A plays a critical role in TGF-β1–induced fibrosis, myofibroblast hyperplasia, alveolar remodeling, and apoptosis. TGF-β1 stimulated SEMA 7A via a largely Smad 3–independent mechanism and stimulated SEMA 7A receptors, matrix proteins, CCN proteins, fibroblast growth factor 2, interleukin 13 receptor components, proteases, antiprotease, and apoptosis regulators via Smad 2/3–independent and SEMA 7A–dependent mechanisms. SEMA 7A also played an important role in the pathogenesis of bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis. TGF-β1 and bleomycin also activated phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) and protein kinase B (PKB)/AKT via SEMA 7A–dependent mechanisms, and PKB/AKT inhibition diminished TGF-β1–induced fibrosis. These observations demonstrate that SEMA 7A and its receptors are induced by TGF-β1 and that SEMA 7A plays a central role in a PI3K/PKB/AKT-dependent pathway that contributes to TGF-β1–induced fibrosis and remodeling. They also demonstrate that the effects of SEMA 7A are not specific for transgenic TGF-β1, highlighting the importance of these findings for other fibrotic stimuli.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hye-Ryun Kang
- Section of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine and 2Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06519, USA
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