1
|
Medina-Lombardero S, Bain C, Charlton L, Pellicoro A, Rocliffe H, Cash J, Reuben R, Crichton ML. The biomechanics of wounds at physiologically relevant levels: Understanding skin's stress-shielding effect for the quantitative assessment of healing. Mater Today Bio 2024; 25:100963. [PMID: 38312802 PMCID: PMC10835282 DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2024.100963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Wounds are responsible for the decrease in quality of life of billions of people around the world. Their assessment relies on subjective parameters which often delays optimal treatments and results in increased healthcare costs. In this work, we sought to understand and quantify how wounds at different healing stages (days 1, 3, 7 and 14 post wounding) change the mechanical properties of the tissues that contain them, and how these could be measured at clinically relevant strain levels, as a step towards quantitative wound tracking technologies. To achieve this, we used digital image correlation and mechanical testing on a mouse model of wound healing to map the global and local tissue strains. We found no significant differences in the elastic and viscoelastic properties of wounded vs unwounded skin when samples were measured in bulk, presumably as these were masked by the protective mechanisms of skin, which redistributes the applied loads to mitigate high stresses and reduce tissue damage. By measuring local strain values and observing the distinct patterns they formed, it was possible to establish a connection between the healing phase of the tissue (determined by the time post-injury and the observed histological features) and the overall mechanical behaviour. Importantly, these parameters were measured from the surface of the tissue, using physiologically relevant strains without increasing the tissue's damage. Adaptations of these approaches for clinical use have the potential to aid in the identification of skin healing problems, such as excessive inflammation or lack of mechanical progression over time. An increase, decrease, or lack of change in the elasticity and viscoelasticity parameters, can be indicative of wound state, thus ultimately leading to improved diagnostic outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Medina-Lombardero
- School of Engineering and Physical Sciences, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, EH14 4AS, United Kingdom
| | - Connor Bain
- School of Engineering and Physical Sciences, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, EH14 4AS, United Kingdom
| | - Laura Charlton
- School of Engineering, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH9 3RF, United Kingdom
| | - Antonella Pellicoro
- Centre for Inflammation Research, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ, United Kingdom
| | - Holly Rocliffe
- Centre for Inflammation Research, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ, United Kingdom
| | - Jenna Cash
- Centre for Inflammation Research, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ, United Kingdom
| | - Robert Reuben
- School of Engineering and Physical Sciences, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, EH14 4AS, United Kingdom
| | - Michael L. Crichton
- School of Engineering and Physical Sciences, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, EH14 4AS, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Hiebert P, Antoniazzi G, Aronoff M, Werner S, Wennemers H. A lysyl oxidase-responsive collagen peptide illuminates collagen remodeling in wound healing. Matrix Biol 2024; 128:11-20. [PMID: 38382767 DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2024.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
Tissue repair and fibrosis involve the dynamic remodeling of collagen, and accurate detection of these sites is of utmost importance. Here, we use a collagen peptide sensor (1) to visualize collagen formation and remodeling during wound healing in mice and humans. We show that the probe binds selectively to sites of collagen formation and remodeling at different stages of healing. Compared to conventional methods, the peptide sensor localizes preferentially to areas of collagen synthesis and remodeling at the wound edge and not in matured fibrillar collagen. We also demonstrate its applicability for in vivo wound imaging and for discerning differential remodeling in wounds of transgenic mice with altered collagen dynamics. Our findings show the value of 1 as a diagnostic tool to rapidly identify the sites of matrix remodeling in tissue sections, which will aid in the conception of new therapeutic strategies for fibrotic disorders and defective tissue repair.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paul Hiebert
- Department of Biology, Institute of Molecular Health Sciences, ETH Zurich, Otto-Stern-Weg 7, Zurich 8093, Switzerland
| | - Giuseppe Antoniazzi
- Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, Laboratory of Organic Chemistry, ETH Zurich, Vladimir-Prelog Weg 3, Zurich 8093, Switzerland
| | - Matthew Aronoff
- Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, Laboratory of Organic Chemistry, ETH Zurich, Vladimir-Prelog Weg 3, Zurich 8093, Switzerland
| | - Sabine Werner
- Department of Biology, Institute of Molecular Health Sciences, ETH Zurich, Otto-Stern-Weg 7, Zurich 8093, Switzerland.
| | - Helma Wennemers
- Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, Laboratory of Organic Chemistry, ETH Zurich, Vladimir-Prelog Weg 3, Zurich 8093, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Chen Y, Chen K, Zhong S, Wang J, Yu Z, Sun X, Wang Y, Liu Y, Zhang Z. Transdermal Transfersome Nanogels Control Hypertrophic Scar Formation via Synergy of Macrophage Phenotype-Switching and Anti-Fibrosis Effect. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2305468. [PMID: 38064170 PMCID: PMC10870058 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202305468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Hypertrophic scar (HS), which results from prolonged inflammation and excessive fibrosis in re-epithelialized wounds, is one of the most common clinical challenges. Consequently, sophisticated transdermal transfersome nanogels (TA/Fu-TS) are prepared to control HS formation by synergistically inhibiting inflammation and suppressing fibrosis. TA/Fu-TSs have unique structures comprising hydrophobic triamcinolone acetonide (TA) in lipid multilayers and hydrophilic 5-fluorouracil in aqueous cores, and perform satisfactorily with regard to transdermal co-delivery to macrophages and HS fibroblasts in emerging HS tissues. According to the in vitro/vivo results, TA/Fu-TSs not only promote macrophage phenotype-switching to inhibit inflammation by interleukin-related pathways, but also suppress fibrosis to remodel extracellular matrix by collagen-related pathways. Therefore, TA/Fu-TSs overcome prolonged inflammation and excessive fibrosis in emerging HS tissues, and provide an effective therapeutic strategy for controlling HS formation via their synergy of macrophage phenotype-switching and anti-fibrosis effect.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yunsheng Chen
- Department of BurnShanghai Burn InstituteRuijin HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine197 Ruijin 2nd RoadShanghai200025China
| | - Kun Chen
- Department of Burn and Plastic SurgeryBeijing Children's HospitalCapital Medical UniversityNational Center for Children's HealthBeijing100045China
- Shunyi Maternal and Children's Hospital of Beijing Children's HospitalBeijing101300China
| | - Shan Zhong
- Department of BurnShanghai Burn InstituteRuijin HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine197 Ruijin 2nd RoadShanghai200025China
| | - Jiaqiang Wang
- Department of BurnShanghai Burn InstituteRuijin HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine197 Ruijin 2nd RoadShanghai200025China
| | - Zhixi Yu
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive SurgeryShanghai Ninth People's HospitalSchool of MedicineShanghai Jiao Tong University639 Zhizaoju RdShanghai200011China
| | - Xiyang Sun
- Hongqiao International Institute of MedicineTongren HospitalSchool of MedicineShanghai Jiao Tong University1111 XianXia RoadShanghai200336China
| | - Yue Wang
- Department of Ear ReconstructionPlastic Surgery HospitalChinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College33 Badachu RoadBeijing100144China
| | - Yan Liu
- Department of BurnShanghai Burn InstituteRuijin HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine197 Ruijin 2nd RoadShanghai200025China
| | - Zheng Zhang
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive SurgeryShanghai Ninth People's HospitalSchool of MedicineShanghai Jiao Tong University639 Zhizaoju RdShanghai200011China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Pinjusic K, Ambrosini G, Lourenco J, Fournier N, Iseli C, Guex N, Egorova O, Nassiri S, Constam DB. Inhibition of anti-tumor immunity by melanoma cell-derived Activin-A depends on STING. Front Immunol 2024; 14:1335207. [PMID: 38304252 PMCID: PMC10830842 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1335207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
The transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) family member activin A (hereafter Activin-A) is overexpressed in many cancer types, often correlating with cancer-associated cachexia and poor prognosis. Activin-A secretion by melanoma cells indirectly impedes CD8+ T cell-mediated anti-tumor immunity and promotes resistance to immunotherapies, even though Activin-A can be proinflammatory in other contexts. To identify underlying mechanisms, we here analyzed the effect of Activin-A on syngeneic grafts of Braf mutant YUMM3.3 mouse melanoma cells and on their microenvironment using single-cell RNA sequencing. We found that the Activin-A-induced immune evasion was accompanied by a proinflammatory interferon signature across multiple cell types, and that the associated increase in tumor growth depended at least in part on pernicious STING activity within the melanoma cells. Besides corroborating a role for proinflammatory signals in facilitating immune evasion, our results suggest that STING holds considerable potential as a therapeutic target to mitigate tumor-promoting Activin-A signaling at least in melanoma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katarina Pinjusic
- Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), SV ISREC, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Giovanna Ambrosini
- Bioinformatics Competence Center, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Bioinformatics Competence Center, Université de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Joao Lourenco
- Translational Data Science Facility, Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, AGORA Cancer Research Center, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Nadine Fournier
- Translational Data Science Facility, Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, AGORA Cancer Research Center, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Christian Iseli
- Bioinformatics Competence Center, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Bioinformatics Competence Center, Université de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Nicolas Guex
- Bioinformatics Competence Center, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Bioinformatics Competence Center, Université de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Olga Egorova
- Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), SV ISREC, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Sina Nassiri
- Translational Data Science Facility, Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, AGORA Cancer Research Center, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Daniel B Constam
- Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), SV ISREC, Lausanne, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Yampolsky M, Bachelet I, Fuchs Y. Reproducible strategy for excisional skin-wound-healing studies in mice. Nat Protoc 2024; 19:184-206. [PMID: 38030941 DOI: 10.1038/s41596-023-00899-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Wound healing is a complex physiological process involving various cell types and signaling pathways. The capability to observe the dynamics of wound repair offers valuable insights into the effects of genetic modifications, pharmaceutical interventions or other experimental manipulations on the skin-repair process. Here, we provide a comprehensive protocol for a full-thickness, excisional skin-wound-healing assay in mice, which can easily be performed by any scientist who has received an animal welfare course certificate and can be completed within ~3 h, depending on the number of animals. Crucially, we highlight the importance of considering key aspects of the assay that can dramatically contribute to the reliability and reproducibility of these experiments. We thoroughly discuss the experimental design, necessary preparations, wounding technique and analysis. In addition, we discuss the use of lineage-tracing techniques to monitor cell migration, differentiation and the contribution of different cell populations to the repair process. Overall, we explore key aspects of the skin-wound-healing assay, supplying a detailed procedure and guidelines essential for decreasing variability and obtaining reliable and reproducible results.
Collapse
|
6
|
Farhangniya M, Samadikuchaksaraei A. A Review of Genes Involved in Wound Healing. Med J Islam Repub Iran 2023; 37:140. [PMID: 38318414 PMCID: PMC10843200 DOI: 10.47176/mjiri.37.140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Gene therapy holds immense potential in the field of wound healing. However, we still do not recognize this procedure well enough to give oversight effectively to improve healing processes. A wide range of information has been achieved from the database for gene expression profiling by clinical trials, So we performed this study to gain a better understanding of the mechanisms behind wound healing and how it could be utilized to develop new therapies and treatments. Methods In this study, we have been focusing on wound-healing genes, conducting a thorough review to explore the various genes and pathways involved in this process. For this purpose, a total of 320 articles were collected. All experimental studies, systematic or narrative reviews, studies and clinical trials included in this paper were searched on PubMed, Medline, Embase, Science Direct, and Scopus databases in English using the following terms: Wound Healing, wound regeneration, Gene Transfer, and Gene Therapy were used to search the mentioned databases. Unfortunately, we didn't find a large sample cohort study on this topic. A total amount of 330 articles were collected based on the guidelines of the PRISMA method. Both inclusion and exclusion criteria were settled. Results During the last decade, different models of gene delivery have been introduced, which include viral transfection and Non-viral techniques. In this regard, TIMP-2 protein and VEGF mutants such as VEGF165, CARP, and HIF-1 are the genes that accelerate the rate of tissue repair. Conclusion The process of wound healing is mainly related to the change of expression of genes that have a role in the parts of inflammation and repair. In our study, some of the most suitable genes involved in the wound-healing process are mentioned.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mansoureh Farhangniya
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Samadikuchaksaraei
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Allied Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Narayanan G, Halim A, Hu A, Avin KG, Lu T, Zehnder D, Hato T, Chen NX, Moe SM, Lim K. Molecular Phenotyping and Mechanisms of Myocardial Fibrosis in Advanced Chronic Kidney Disease. KIDNEY360 2023; 4:1562-1579. [PMID: 37858297 PMCID: PMC10695648 DOI: 10.34067/kid.0000000000000276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Key Points Myocardial fibrosis in hearts from patients with CKD is characterized by increased trimeric tensile collagen type I and decreased elastic collagen type III compared with hearts from hypertensive or healthy donors, suggesting a unique fibrotic phenotype. Myocardial fibrosis in CKD is driven by alterations in extracellular matrix proteostasis, including dysregulation of metalloproteinases and cross-linking enzymes. CKD-associated mineral stressors uniquely induce a fibronectin-independent mechanism of fibrillogenesis characterized by formation of trimeric collagen compared with proinflammatory/fibrotic cytokines. Background Myocardial fibrosis is a major life-limiting problem in CKD. Despite this, the molecular phenotype and metabolism of collagen fibrillogenesis in fibrotic hearts of patients with advanced CKD have been largely unstudied. Methods We analyzed explanted human left ventricular (LV) heart tissues in a three-arm cross-sectional cohort study of deceased donor patients on hemodialysis (HD, n =18), hypertension with preserved renal function (HTN, n =8), and healthy controls (CON, n =17), ex vivo . RNA-seq and protein analysis was performed on human donor hearts and cardiac fibroblasts treated with mineral stressors (high phosphate and high calcium). Further mechanistic studies were performed using primary cardiac fibroblasts, in vitro treated with mineral stressors, proinflammatory and profibrotic cytokines. Results Of the 43 donor participants, there was no difference in age (P > 0.2), sex (P > 0.8), or body mass index (P > 0.1) between the groups. Hearts from the HD group had extensive fibrosis (P < 0.01). All LV tissues expressed only the trimeric form of collagen type I. HD hearts expressed increased collagen type I (P < 0.03), elevated collagen type I:III ratio (P < 0.05), and decreased MMP1 (P < 0.05) and MMP2 (P < 0.05). RNA-seq revealed no significant differential gene expression of extracellular matrix proteins of interest in HD hearts, but there was significant upregulation of LH2, periostin, α -SMA, and TGF-β 1 gene expression in mineral stressor–treated cardiac fibroblasts. Both mineral stressors (P < 0.009) and cytokines (P < 0.03) increased collagen type I:III ratio. Mineral stressors induced trimeric collagen type I, but cytokine treatment induced only dimeric collagen type I in cardiac fibroblasts. Mineral stressors downregulated fibronectin (P < 0.03) and MMP2 zymogen (P < 0.01) but did not significantly affect expression of periostin, MMP1, or cross-linking enzymes. TGF-β upregulated fibronectin (P < 0.01) and periostin (P < 0.02) only. Conclusions Myocardial fibrosis in advanced CKD hearts is characterized by increased trimeric collagen type I and dysregulated collagen metabolism, and is differentially regulated by components of uremia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gayatri Narayanan
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Arvin Halim
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Alvin Hu
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
- Department of Medicine, Indiana University Health Ball Memorial Hospital, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Keith G. Avin
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
- Department of Physical Therapy, Indiana University School of Health and Human Sciences, Indiana University, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Tzongshi Lu
- Renal Division, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Daniel Zehnder
- Department of Nephrology and Department of Acute Medicine, North Cumbria University Hospital NHS Trust, Carlisle, United Kingdom
| | - Takashi Hato
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Neal X. Chen
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Sharon M. Moe
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Kenneth Lim
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Petrov PB, Considine JM, Izzi V, Naba A. Matrisome AnalyzeR - a suite of tools to annotate and quantify ECM molecules in big datasets across organisms. J Cell Sci 2023; 136:jcs261255. [PMID: 37555624 PMCID: PMC10499032 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.261255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a complex meshwork of proteins that forms the scaffold of all tissues in multicellular organisms. It plays crucial roles in all aspects of life - from orchestrating cell migration during development, to supporting tissue repair. It also plays critical roles in the etiology or progression of diseases. To study this compartment, we have previously defined the compendium of all genes encoding ECM and ECM-associated proteins for multiple organisms. We termed this compendium the 'matrisome' and further classified matrisome components into different structural or functional categories. This nomenclature is now largely adopted by the research community to annotate '-omics' datasets and has contributed to advance both fundamental and translational ECM research. Here, we report the development of Matrisome AnalyzeR, a suite of tools including a web-based application and an R package. The web application can be used by anyone interested in annotating, classifying and tabulating matrisome molecules in large datasets without requiring programming knowledge. The companion R package is available to more experienced users, interested in processing larger datasets or in additional data visualization options.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Petar B. Petrov
- Infotech Institute, University of Oulu, FI-90014 Oulu, Finland
| | - James M. Considine
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Valerio Izzi
- Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine & Faculty of Medicine, BioIM Unit, University of Oulu, FI-90014 Oulu, Finland
- Foundation for the Finnish Cancer Institute, Tukholmankatu 8, Fl-00290 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Alexandra Naba
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
- University of Illinois Cancer Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Ye Z, Wang S, Shan C, Zhu Q, Xue Y, Zhang K. The serum levels of activin A and bone morphogenetic protein-4 and -6 in patients with fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2023; 18:111. [PMID: 37165433 PMCID: PMC10170814 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-023-02708-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP) is an ultrarare and disabling genetic disorder of connective tissue characterized by congenital malformation of the great toes, and progressive heterotopic ossification (HO) in soft connective tissues. A gain-of-function mutation of activin A receptor type I (ACVR1) enables ACVR1 to recognize activin A as an agonist with bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signalling that leads to HO. Previous studies confirmed that activin A stimulates BMP signalling in vitro and drives HO in mouse models of FOP. However, the roles for BMP4 and BMP6 in FOP are supported only by correlative evidence in vitro. Thus, it remains unclear whether the circulating levels of activin A, BMP4 and BMP6 correlate with flare-ups in FOP patients. Hence, we investigated the protein levels of activin A, BMP4 and BMP6 in the serum of FOP patients. RESULTS We recruited 16 untreated FOP patients and 16 age- and sex- matched healthy control subjects in this study. The 16 FOP patients were retrospectively divided into the flare-up group (n = 8) and remission group (n = 8) depending on whether they had flare-ups or worsening of any joint movement in the last 6 months. The serum activin A, BMP4 and BMP6 levels were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The serum activin A, BMP4 and BMP6 levels were slightly higher in FOP patients (median: 434.05 pg/mL, 459.48 pg/mL and 67.84 pg/mL) versus healthy control subjects (median: 364.14 pg/mL, 450.39 pg/mL and 55.36 pg/mL). However, there were no statistically significant differences between the two groups (p > 0.05 for all items), nor were there significant differences between the flare-up and remission groups of FOP (p > 0.05 for all items). Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses showed that age, sex, and serum activin A, BMP4 and BMP6 levels were not related to flare-up in FOP patients. CONCLUSIONS There were no significant differences in the serum levels of activin A, BMP4 and BMP6 in FOP patients compared with healthy control subjects. Serum activin A, BMP4 and BMP6 proteins might not be the stimulators for FOP flare-up, and may not be biomarkers for FOP diagnosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhengqin Ye
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, No. 389, Xincun Road, Shanghai, 200065, China
| | - Siyi Wang
- Medical School of Nantong University, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, 19 Qixiu Road, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chang Shan
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, No. 389, Xincun Road, Shanghai, 200065, China
| | - Qi Zhu
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, No. 389, Xincun Road, Shanghai, 200065, China
| | - Ying Xue
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, No. 389, Xincun Road, Shanghai, 200065, China
| | - Keqin Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, No. 389, Xincun Road, Shanghai, 200065, China.
- Institute of Osteoporosis and Metabolic Bone Diseases, School of Medicine, Tongji University, No. 389, Xincun Road, Shanghai, 200065, China.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Petrov PB, Considine JM, Izzi V, Naba A. Matrisome AnalyzeR: A suite of tools to annotate and quantify ECM molecules in big datasets across organisms. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.04.18.537378. [PMID: 37131773 PMCID: PMC10153148 DOI: 10.1101/2023.04.18.537378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a complex meshwork of proteins that forms the scaffold of all tissues in multicellular organisms. It plays critical roles in all aspects of life: from orchestrating cell migration during development, to supporting tissue repair. It also plays critical roles in the etiology or progression of diseases. To study this compartment, we defined the compendium of all genes encoding ECM and ECM-associated proteins for multiple organisms. We termed this compendium the "matrisome" and further classified matrisome components into different structural or functional categories. This nomenclature is now largely adopted by the research community to annotate -omics datasets and has contributed to advance both fundamental and translational ECM research. Here, we report the development of Matrisome AnalyzeR, a suite of tools including a web-based application ( https://sites.google.com/uic.edu/matrisome/tools/matrisome-analyzer ) and an R package ( https://github.com/Matrisome/MatrisomeAnalyzeR ). The web application can be used by anyone interested in annotating, classifying, and tabulating matrisome molecules in large datasets without requiring programming knowledge. The companion R package is available to more experienced users, interested in processing larger datasets or in additional data visualization options. SUMMARY STATEMENT Matrisome AnalyzeR is a suite of tools, including a web-based app and an R package, designed to facilitate the annotation and quantification of extracellular matrix components in big datasets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Petar B. Petrov
- Infotech Institute, University of Oulu, FI-90014 Oulu, Finland
| | - James M. Considine
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Valerio Izzi
- Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine & Faculty of Medicine, BioIM Unit, University of Oulu, FI-90014 Oulu, Finland
- Foundation for the Finnish Cancer Institute, Tukholmankatu 8, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Alexandra Naba
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
- University of Illinois Cancer Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Phase-specific signatures of wound fibroblasts and matrix patterns define cancer-associated fibroblast subtypes. Matrix Biol 2023; 119:19-56. [PMID: 36914141 DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2023.03.003] [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: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/13/2023]
Abstract
Healing wounds and cancers present remarkable cellular and molecular parallels, but the specific roles of the healing phases are largely unknown. We developed a bioinformatics pipeline to identify genes and pathways that define distinct phases across the time-course of healing. Their comparison to cancer transcriptomes revealed that a resolution phase wound signature is associated with increased severity in skin cancer and enriches for extracellular matrix-related pathways. Comparisons of transcriptomes of early- and late-phase wound fibroblasts vs skin cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) identified an "early wound" CAF subtype, which localizes to the inner tumor stroma and expresses collagen-related genes that are controlled by the RUNX2 transcription factor. A "late wound" CAF subtype localizes to the outer tumor stroma and expresses elastin-related genes. Matrix imaging of primary melanoma tissue microarrays validated these matrix signatures and identified collagen- vs elastin-rich niches within the tumor microenvironment, whose spatial organization predicts survival and recurrence. These results identify wound-regulated genes and matrix patterns with prognostic potential in skin cancer.
Collapse
|
12
|
Pensalfini M, Tepole AB. Mechano-biological and bio-mechanical pathways in cutaneous wound healing. PLoS Comput Biol 2023; 19:e1010902. [PMID: 36893170 PMCID: PMC10030043 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1010902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Injuries to the skin heal through coordinated action of fibroblast-mediated extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition, ECM remodeling, and wound contraction. Defects involving the dermis result in fibrotic scars featuring increased stiffness and altered collagen content and organization. Although computational models are crucial to unravel the underlying biochemical and biophysical mechanisms, simulations of the evolving wound biomechanics are seldom benchmarked against measurements. Here, we leverage recent quantifications of local tissue stiffness in murine wounds to refine a previously-proposed systems-mechanobiological finite-element model. Fibroblasts are considered as the main cell type involved in ECM remodeling and wound contraction. Tissue rebuilding is coordinated by the release and diffusion of a cytokine wave, e.g. TGF-β, itself developed in response to an earlier inflammatory signal triggered by platelet aggregation. We calibrate a model of the evolving wound biomechanics through a custom-developed hierarchical Bayesian inverse analysis procedure. Further calibration is based on published biochemical and morphological murine wound healing data over a 21-day healing period. The calibrated model recapitulates the temporal evolution of: inflammatory signal, fibroblast infiltration, collagen buildup, and wound contraction. Moreover, it enables in silico hypothesis testing, which we explore by: (i) quantifying the alteration of wound contraction profiles corresponding to the measured variability in local wound stiffness; (ii) proposing alternative constitutive links connecting the dynamics of the biochemical fields to the evolving mechanical properties; (iii) discussing the plausibility of a stretch- vs. stiffness-mediated mechanobiological coupling. Ultimately, our model challenges the current understanding of wound biomechanics and mechanobiology, beside offering a versatile tool to explore and eventually control scar fibrosis after injury.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marco Pensalfini
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, United States of America
- Institute for Mechanical Systems (IMES), Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Laboratori de Càlcul Numèric (LaCàN), Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya-BarcelonaTech, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Adrian Buganza Tepole
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, United States of America
- Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Promotion of Lymphangiogenesis by Targeted Delivery of VEGF-C Improves Diabetic Wound Healing. Cells 2023; 12:cells12030472. [PMID: 36766814 PMCID: PMC9913977 DOI: 10.3390/cells12030472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic wounds represent a major therapeutic challenge. Lymphatic vessel function is impaired in chronic ulcers but the role of lymphangiogenesis in wound healing has remained unclear. We found that lymphatic vessels are largely absent from chronic human wounds as evaluated in patient biopsies. Excisional wound healing studies were conducted using transgenic mice with or without an increased number of cutaneous lymphatic vessels, as well as antibody-mediated inhibition of lymphangiogenesis. We found that a lack of lymphatic vessels mediated a proinflammatory wound microenvironment and delayed wound closure, and that the VEGF-C/VEGFR3 signaling axis is required for wound lymphangiogenesis. Treatment of diabetic mice (db/db mice) with the F8-VEGF-C fusion protein that targets the alternatively spliced extra domain A (EDA) of fibronectin, expressed in remodeling tissue, promoted wound healing, and potently induced wound lymphangiogenesis. The treatment also reduced tissue inflammation and exerted beneficial effects on the wound microenvironment, including myofibroblast density and collagen deposition. These findings indicate that activating the lymphatic vasculature might represent a new therapeutic strategy for treating chronic non-healing wounds.
Collapse
|
14
|
Schuster R, Younesi F, Ezzo M, Hinz B. The Role of Myofibroblasts in Physiological and Pathological Tissue Repair. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Biol 2023; 15:cshperspect.a041231. [PMID: 36123034 PMCID: PMC9808581 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a041231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Myofibroblasts are the construction workers of wound healing and repair damaged tissues by producing and organizing collagen/extracellular matrix (ECM) into scar tissue. Scar tissue effectively and quickly restores the mechanical integrity of lost tissue architecture but comes at the price of lost tissue functionality. Fibrotic diseases caused by excessive or persistent myofibroblast activity can lead to organ failure. This review defines myofibroblast terminology, phenotypic characteristics, and functions. We will focus on the central role of the cell, ECM, and tissue mechanics in regulating tissue repair by controlling myofibroblast action. Additionally, we will discuss how therapies based on mechanical intervention potentially ameliorate wound healing outcomes. Although myofibroblast physiology and pathology affect all organs, we will emphasize cutaneous wound healing and hypertrophic scarring as paradigms for normal tissue repair versus fibrosis. A central message of this review is that myofibroblasts can be activated from multiple cell sources, varying with local environment and type of injury, to either restore tissue integrity and organ function or create an inappropriate mechanical environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ronen Schuster
- Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, M5S 3E2 Ontario, Canada
| | - Fereshteh Younesi
- Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, M5S 3E2 Ontario, Canada.,Laboratory of Tissue Repair and Regeneration, Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science of the St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario M5B 1T8, Canada
| | - Maya Ezzo
- Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, M5S 3E2 Ontario, Canada.,Laboratory of Tissue Repair and Regeneration, Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science of the St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario M5B 1T8, Canada
| | - Boris Hinz
- Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, M5S 3E2 Ontario, Canada.,Laboratory of Tissue Repair and Regeneration, Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science of the St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario M5B 1T8, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Hiebert P, Martyts A, Schwestermann J, Janke K, Hafner J, Boukamp P, Mazza E, Werner S. Activation of Nrf2 in fibroblasts promotes a skin aging phenotype via an Nrf2-miRNA-collagen axis. Matrix Biol 2022; 113:39-60. [PMID: 36367485 DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2022.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Aging is associated with progressive skin fragility and a tendency to tear, which can lead to severe clinical complications. The transcription factor NRF2 is a key regulator of the cellular antioxidant response, and pharmacological NRF2 activation is a promising strategy for the prevention of age-related diseases. Using a combination of molecular and cellular biology, histology, imaging and biomechanical studies we show, however, that constitutive genetic activation of Nrf2 in fibroblasts of mice suppresses collagen and elastin expression, resulting in reduced skin strength as seen in aged mice. Mechanistically, the "aging matrisome" results in part from direct Nrf2-mediated overexpression of a network of microRNAs that target mRNAs of major skin collagens and other matrix components. Bioinformatics and functional studies revealed high NRF2 activity in aged human fibroblasts in 3D skin equivalents and human skin biopsies, highlighting the translational relevance of the functional mouse data. Together, these results identify activated NRF2 as a promoter of age-related molecular and biomechanical skin features.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paul Hiebert
- Department of Biology, Institute of Molecular Health Sciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich 8093, Switzerland.
| | - Anastasiya Martyts
- Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering, Institute for Mechanical Systems, ETH Zurich, Zurich 8092, Switzerland
| | - Jonas Schwestermann
- Department of Biology, Institute of Molecular Health Sciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich 8093, Switzerland
| | - Katharina Janke
- Department of Environmentally-Induced Skin and Lung Aging, IUF - Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, Düsseldorf 40225, Germany
| | - Jürg Hafner
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich 8091, Switzerland
| | - Petra Boukamp
- Department of Environmentally-Induced Skin and Lung Aging, IUF - Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, Düsseldorf 40225, Germany
| | - Edoardo Mazza
- Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering, Institute for Mechanical Systems, ETH Zurich, Zurich 8092, Switzerland
| | - Sabine Werner
- Department of Biology, Institute of Molecular Health Sciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich 8093, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
PD-L1-directed PlGF/VEGF blockade synergizes with chemotherapy by targeting CD141 + cancer-associated fibroblasts in pancreatic cancer. Nat Commun 2022; 13:6292. [PMID: 36272973 PMCID: PMC9588060 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-33991-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has a poor 5-year overall survival rate. Patients with PDAC display limited benefits after undergoing chemotherapy or immunotherapy modalities. Herein, we reveal that chemotherapy upregulates placental growth factor (PlGF), which directly activates cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) to induce fibrosis-associated collagen deposition in PDAC. Patients with poor prognosis have high PIGF/VEGF expression and an increased number of PIGF/VEGF receptor-expressing CAFs, associated with enhanced collagen deposition. We also develop a multi-paratopic VEGF decoy receptor (Ate-Grab) by fusing the single-chain Fv of atezolizumab (anti-PD-L1) to VEGF-Grab to target PD-L1-expressing CAFs. Ate-Grab exerts anti-tumor and anti-fibrotic effects in PDAC models via the PD-L1-directed PlGF/VEGF blockade. Furthermore, Ate-Grab synergizes with gemcitabine by relieving desmoplasia. Single-cell RNA sequencing identifies that a CD141+ CAF population is reduced upon Ate-Grab and gemcitabine combination treatment. Overall, our results elucidate the mechanism underlying chemotherapy-induced fibrosis in PDAC and highlight a combinatorial therapeutic strategy for desmoplastic cancers.
Collapse
|
17
|
Weng W, Chi J, Wang X, Shi K, Ye F, Zhao Y. Ellipsoidal porous patch with anisotropic cell inducing ability for inhibiting skin scar formation. ENGINEERED REGENERATION 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.engreg.2022.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
|
18
|
Yerly L, Pich-Bavastro C, Di Domizio J, Wyss T, Tissot-Renaud S, Cangkrama M, Gilliet M, Werner S, Kuonen F. Integrated multi-omics reveals cellular and molecular interactions governing the invasive niche of basal cell carcinoma. Nat Commun 2022; 13:4897. [PMID: 35986012 PMCID: PMC9391376 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-32670-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumors invade the surrounding tissues to progress, but the heterogeneity of cell types at the tumor-stroma interface and the complexity of their potential interactions hampered mechanistic insight required for efficient therapeutic targeting. Here, combining single-cell and spatial transcriptomics on human basal cell carcinomas, we define the cellular contributors of tumor progression. In the invasive niche, tumor cells exhibit a collective migration phenotype, characterized by the expression of cell-cell junction complexes. In physical proximity, we identify cancer-associated fibroblasts with extracellular matrix-remodeling features. Tumor cells strongly express the cytokine Activin A, and increased Activin A-induced gene signature is found in adjacent cancer-associated fibroblast subpopulations. Altogether, our data identify the cell populations and their transcriptional reprogramming contributing to the spatial organization of the basal cell carcinoma invasive niche. They also demonstrate the power of integrated spatial and single-cell multi-omics to decipher cancer-specific invasive properties and develop targeted therapies. The role of reciprocal tumour-stroma interactions in tumour invasion remains poorly characterised. Here, single-cell and spatial transcriptomics identifies the cell populations and their transcriptional reprogramming contributing to the spatial organization of the basal cell carcinoma invasive niche.
Collapse
|
19
|
Importance of Fibrosis in the Pathogenesis of Uterine Leiomyoma and the Promising Anti-fibrotic Effects of Dipeptidyl Peptidase-4 and Fibroblast Activation Protein Inhibitors in the Treatment of Uterine Leiomyoma. Reprod Sci 2022; 30:1383-1398. [PMID: 35969363 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-022-01064-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
Uterine fibroid or leiomyoma is the most common benign uterus tumor. The tumor is primarily composed of smooth muscle (fibroid) cells, myofibroblast, and a significant amount of extracellular matrix components. It mainly affects women of reproductive age. They are uncommon before menarche and usually disappear after menopause. The fibroids have excessive extracellular matrix components secreted by activated fibroblast cells (myofibroblast). Myofibroblast has the characteristics of fibroblast and smooth muscle cells. These cells possess contractile capability due to the expression of contractile proteins which are normally found only in muscle tissues. The rigid nature of the tumor is responsible for many side effects associated with uterine fibroids. The current drug treatment strategies are primarily hormone-driven and not anti-fibrotic. This paper emphasizes the fibrotic background of uterine fibroids and the mechanisms behind the deposition of excessive extracellular matrix components. The transforming growth factor-β, hippo, and focal adhesion kinase-mediated signaling pathways activate the fibroblast cells and deposit excessive extracellular matrix materials. We also exemplify how dipeptidyl peptidase-4 and fibroblast activation protein inhibitors could be beneficial in reducing the fibrotic process in leiomyoma. Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 and fibroblast activation protein inhibitors prevent the fibrotic process in organs such as the kidneys, lungs, liver, and heart. These inhibitors are proven to inhibit the signaling pathways mentioned above at various stages of their activation. Based on literature evidence, we constructed a narrative review on the mechanisms that support the beneficial effects of dipeptidyl peptidase-4 and fibroblast activation protein inhibitors for treating uterine fibroids.
Collapse
|
20
|
Vu R, Jin S, Sun P, Haensel D, Nguyen QH, Dragan M, Kessenbrock K, Nie Q, Dai X. Wound healing in aged skin exhibits systems-level alterations in cellular composition and cell-cell communication. Cell Rep 2022; 40:111155. [PMID: 35926463 PMCID: PMC9901190 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.111155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Revised: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Delayed and often impaired wound healing in the elderly presents major medical and socioeconomic challenges. A comprehensive understanding of the cellular/molecular changes that shape complex cell-cell communications in aged skin wounds is lacking. Here, we use single-cell RNA sequencing to define the epithelial, fibroblast, immune cell types, and encompassing heterogeneities in young and aged skin during homeostasis and identify major changes in cell compositions, kinetics, and molecular profiles during wound healing. Our comparative study uncovers a more pronounced inflammatory phenotype in aged skin wounds, featuring neutrophil persistence and higher abundance of an inflammatory/glycolytic Arg1Hi macrophage subset that is more likely to signal to fibroblasts via interleukin (IL)-1 than in young counterparts. We predict systems-level differences in the number, strength, route, and signaling mediators of putative cell-cell communications in young and aged skin wounds. Our study exposes numerous cellular/molecular targets for functional interrogation and provides a hypothesis-generating resource for future wound healing studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Remy Vu
- Department of Biological Chemistry, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA,The NSF-Simons Center for Multiscale Cell Fate Research, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92627, USA,These authors contributed equally
| | - Suoqin Jin
- School of Mathematics and Statistics, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China,Department of Mathematics, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA,These authors contributed equally
| | - Peng Sun
- Department of Biological Chemistry, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA,The NSF-Simons Center for Multiscale Cell Fate Research, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92627, USA,These authors contributed equally
| | - Daniel Haensel
- Department of Biological Chemistry, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA,The NSF-Simons Center for Multiscale Cell Fate Research, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92627, USA,Present address: Program in Epithelial Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Quy Hoa Nguyen
- Department of Biological Chemistry, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Morgan Dragan
- Department of Biological Chemistry, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA,The NSF-Simons Center for Multiscale Cell Fate Research, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92627, USA
| | - Kai Kessenbrock
- Department of Biological Chemistry, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Qing Nie
- The NSF-Simons Center for Multiscale Cell Fate Research, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92627, USA,Department of Mathematics, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA,Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA,Correspondence: (Q.N.), (X.D.)
| | - Xing Dai
- Department of Biological Chemistry, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA,The NSF-Simons Center for Multiscale Cell Fate Research, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92627, USA,Lead contact,Correspondence: (Q.N.), (X.D.)
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Zhang Q, Shi L, He H, Liu X, Huang Y, Xu D, Yao M, Zhang N, Guo Y, Lu Y, Li H, Zhou J, Tan J, Xing M, Luo G. Down-Regulating Scar Formation by Microneedles Directly via a Mechanical Communication Pathway. ACS NANO 2022; 16:10163-10178. [PMID: 35617518 PMCID: PMC9331171 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.1c11016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Excessive extracellular matrix deposition drives fibroblasts into a state of high mechanical stress, exacerbating pathological fibrosis and hypertrophic scar formation, leading to tissue dysfunction. This study reports a minimally invasive and convenient approach to obtaining scarless tissue using a silk fibroin microneedle patch (SF MNs). We found that by tuning the MN size and density only, the biocompatible MNs significantly decreased the scar elevation index in the rabbit ear hypertrophic scar model and increased ultimate tensile strength close to regular skin. To advance our understanding of this recent approach, we built a fibroblast-populated collagen lattice system and finite element model to study MN-mediated cellular behavior of fibroblasts. We found that the MNs reduced the fibroblasts generated contraction and mechanical stress, as indicated by decreased expression of the mechanical sensitive gene ANKRD1. Specifically, SF MNs attenuated the integrin-FAK signaling and consequently down-regulated the expression of TGF-β1, α-SMA, collagen I, and fibronectin. It resulted in a low-stress microenvironment that helps to reduce scar formation significantly. Microneedles' physical intervention via the mechanotherapeutic strategy is promising for scar-free wound healing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qing Zhang
- Institute
of Burn Research, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined
Injury, Southwest Hospital, Third Military
Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Lin Shi
- Institute
of Burn Research, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined
Injury, Southwest Hospital, Third Military
Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Hong He
- Ministry
of Education & Key Disciplines Laboratory of Novel Micro-Nano
Devices and System Technology, Chongqing
University, Chongqing 400044, China
| | - Xingmou Liu
- Institute
of Burn Research, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined
Injury, Southwest Hospital, Third Military
Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing 400038, China
- Chongqing
Key Laboratory of Complex Systems and Bionic Control, Chongqing University of Posts and Telecommunications, Chongqing 400065, China
| | - Yong Huang
- Institute
of Burn Research, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined
Injury, Southwest Hospital, Third Military
Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Dan Xu
- Department
of Pathology, Southwest Hospital, Third
Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Mengyun Yao
- Institute
of Burn Research, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined
Injury, Southwest Hospital, Third Military
Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Ning Zhang
- Institute
of Burn Research, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined
Injury, Southwest Hospital, Third Military
Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Yicheng Guo
- Institute
of Burn Research, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined
Injury, Southwest Hospital, Third Military
Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Yifei Lu
- Institute
of Burn Research, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined
Injury, Southwest Hospital, Third Military
Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Haisheng Li
- Institute
of Burn Research, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined
Injury, Southwest Hospital, Third Military
Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Junyi Zhou
- Institute
of Burn Research, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined
Injury, Southwest Hospital, Third Military
Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Jianglin Tan
- Institute
of Burn Research, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined
Injury, Southwest Hospital, Third Military
Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Malcolm Xing
- Department
of Mechanical Engineering, University of
Manitoba, Winnipeg, R3T 2N2, Canada
| | - Gaoxing Luo
- Institute
of Burn Research, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined
Injury, Southwest Hospital, Third Military
Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing 400038, China
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Mechanomodulatory Biomaterials Prospects in Scar Prevention and Treatment. Acta Biomater 2022; 150:22-33. [DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2022.07.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Revised: 06/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
|
23
|
Gomez-Florit M, Labrador-Rached CJ, Domingues RM, Gomes ME. The tendon microenvironment: Engineered in vitro models to study cellular crosstalk. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2022; 185:114299. [PMID: 35436570 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2022.114299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Tendinopathy is a multi-faceted pathology characterized by alterations in tendon microstructure, cellularity and collagen composition. Challenged by the possibility of regenerating pathological or ruptured tendons, the healing mechanisms of this tissue have been widely researched over the past decades. However, so far, most of the cellular players and processes influencing tendon repair remain unknown, which emphasizes the need for developing relevant in vitro models enabling to study the complex multicellular crosstalk occurring in tendon microenvironments. In this review, we critically discuss the insights on the interaction between tenocytes and the other tendon resident cells that have been devised through different types of existing in vitro models. Building on the generated knowledge, we stress the need for advanced models able to mimic the hierarchical architecture, cellularity and physiological signaling of tendon niche under dynamic culture conditions, along with the recreation of the integrated gradients of its tissue interfaces. In a forward-looking vision of the field, we discuss how the convergence of multiple bioengineering technologies can be leveraged as potential platforms to develop the next generation of relevant in vitro models that can contribute for a deeper fundamental knowledge to develop more effective treatments.
Collapse
|
24
|
Chen YI, Chang CC, Hsu MF, Jeng YM, Tien YW, Chang MC, Chang YT, Hu CM, Lee WH. Homophilic ATP1A1 binding induces activin A secretion to promote EMT of tumor cells and myofibroblast activation. Nat Commun 2022; 13:2945. [PMID: 35618735 PMCID: PMC9135720 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-30638-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumor cells with diverse phenotypes and biological behaviors are influenced by stromal cells through secretory factors or direct cell-cell contact. Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is characterized by extensive desmoplasia with fibroblasts as the major cell type. In the present study, we observe enrichment of myofibroblasts in a juxta-tumoral position with tumor cells undergoing epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) that facilitates invasion and correlates with a worse clinical prognosis in PDAC patients. Direct cell-cell contacts forming heterocellular aggregates between fibroblasts and tumor cells are detected in primary pancreatic tumors and circulating tumor microemboli (CTM). Mechanistically, ATP1A1 overexpressed in tumor cells binds to and reorganizes ATP1A1 of fibroblasts that induces calcium oscillations, NF-κB activation, and activin A secretion. Silencing ATP1A1 expression or neutralizing activin A secretion suppress tumor invasion and colonization. Taken together, these results elucidate the direct interplay between tumor cells and bound fibroblasts in PDAC progression, thereby providing potential therapeutic opportunities for inhibiting metastasis by interfering with these cell-cell interactions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Ing Chen
- Genomics Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chin-Chun Chang
- Genomics Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
- Master Program for Cancer Biology and Drug Discovery, China Medical University and Academia Sinica, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Min-Fen Hsu
- Genomics Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yung-Ming Jeng
- Department of Pathology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Graduate Institute of Pathology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Wen Tien
- Department of Surgery, National Taiwan University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Chu Chang
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Ting Chang
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Mei Hu
- Genomics Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan.
| | - Wen-Hwa Lee
- Genomics Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan.
- Drug Development Center, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Liu Z, Yang J, Chen Y, Chen C, Wang J, Lee YM, Zheng W, Shang R, Tang Y, Zhang X, Hu X, Huang Y, Peng S, Liou YC, He W, Luo G. P311 Facilitates the Angiogenesis and Wound Healing Function of MSCs by Increasing VEGF Production. Front Immunol 2022; 13:821932. [PMID: 35154140 PMCID: PMC8831272 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.821932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
As a potential clinical therapeutic cell for injured tissue repair, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have attracted increasing attention. Enhancing the pro-healing function of MSCs has gradually become an essential topic in improving the clinical efficacy of MSCs. Recently, studies have shown that neuronal protein 3.1 (P311) plays a crucial role in promoting skin wound healing, suggesting P311 gene modification may improve the pro-healing function of MSCs. In this study, we demonstrated that increasing the in vivo expression of P311 could significantly enhance the ability of MSCs to lessen the number of inflammatory cells, increase the expression of IL10, reduce the levels of TNF-α and IFN-γ, increase collagen deposition, promote angiogenesis, and ultimately accelerate skin wound closure and improve the quality of wound healing. Importantly, we uncovered that P311 enhanced the pro-angiogenesis function of MSCs by increasing the production of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, we revealed that the mTOR signalling pathway was closely related to the regulation of P311 on VEGF production in MSCs. Together, our data displayed that P311 gene modification in MSCs augments their capabilities to promote skin wound closure, which might bring the dawn for its clinical application in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhihui Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Institute of Burn Research, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China.,Department of Disease Proteomics, Chongqing Key Laboratory for Disease Proteomics, Chongqing, China
| | - Jiacai Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Institute of Burn Research, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China.,Department of Disease Proteomics, Chongqing Key Laboratory for Disease Proteomics, Chongqing, China
| | - Yunxia Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Institute of Burn Research, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China.,Department of Disease Proteomics, Chongqing Key Laboratory for Disease Proteomics, Chongqing, China
| | - Cheng Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Institute of Burn Research, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China.,Department of Disease Proteomics, Chongqing Key Laboratory for Disease Proteomics, Chongqing, China
| | - Jue Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Institute of Burn Research, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China.,Department of Disease Proteomics, Chongqing Key Laboratory for Disease Proteomics, Chongqing, China
| | - Yew Mun Lee
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.,National University of Singapore (NUS) Graduate School for Integrative Sciences and Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Wenxia Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Institute of Burn Research, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China.,Department of Disease Proteomics, Chongqing Key Laboratory for Disease Proteomics, Chongqing, China
| | - Ruoyu Shang
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Institute of Burn Research, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China.,Department of Disease Proteomics, Chongqing Key Laboratory for Disease Proteomics, Chongqing, China
| | - Yuanyang Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Institute of Burn Research, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China.,Academy of Biological Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaorong Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Institute of Burn Research, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China.,Department of Disease Proteomics, Chongqing Key Laboratory for Disease Proteomics, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaohong Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Institute of Burn Research, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China.,Department of Disease Proteomics, Chongqing Key Laboratory for Disease Proteomics, Chongqing, China
| | - Yong Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Institute of Burn Research, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China.,Department of Disease Proteomics, Chongqing Key Laboratory for Disease Proteomics, Chongqing, China
| | - Shiya Peng
- Department of Dermatology, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yih-Cherng Liou
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.,National University of Singapore (NUS) Graduate School for Integrative Sciences and Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Weifeng He
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Institute of Burn Research, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China.,Department of Disease Proteomics, Chongqing Key Laboratory for Disease Proteomics, Chongqing, China
| | - Gaoxing Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Institute of Burn Research, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China.,Department of Disease Proteomics, Chongqing Key Laboratory for Disease Proteomics, Chongqing, China
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Ahlers JMD, Falckenhayn C, Holzscheck N, Solé-Boldo L, Schütz S, Wenck H, Winnefeld M, Lyko F, Grönniger E, Siracusa A. Single-Cell RNA Profiling of Human Skin Reveals Age-Related Loss of Dermal Sheath Cells and Their Contribution to a Juvenile Phenotype. Front Genet 2022; 12:797747. [PMID: 35069694 PMCID: PMC8776708 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.797747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The dermal sheath (DS) is a population of mesenchyme-derived skin cells with emerging importance for skin homeostasis. The DS includes hair follicle dermal stem cells, which exhibit self-renewal and serve as bipotent progenitors of dermal papilla (DP) cells and DS cells. Upon aging, stem cells exhibit deficiencies in self-renewal and their number is reduced. While the DS of mice has been examined in considerable detail, our knowledge of the human DS, the pathways contributing to its self-renewal and differentiation capacity and potential paracrine effects important for tissue regeneration and aging is very limited. Using single-cell RNA sequencing of human skin biopsies from donors of different ages we have now analyzed the transcriptome of 72,048 cells, including 50,149 fibroblasts. Our results show that DS cells that exhibit stem cell characteristics were lost upon aging. We further show that HES1, COL11A1, MYL4 and CTNNB1 regulate DS stem cell characteristics. Finally, the DS secreted protein Activin A showed paracrine effects on keratinocytes and dermal fibroblasts, promoting proliferation, epidermal thickness and pro-collagen production. Our work provides a detailed description of human DS identity on the single-cell level, its loss upon aging, its stem cell characteristics and its contribution to a juvenile skin phenotype.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Llorenç Solé-Boldo
- Division of Epigenetics, DKFZ-ZMBH Alliance, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Sabrina Schütz
- Division of Epigenetics, DKFZ-ZMBH Alliance, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Horst Wenck
- Beiersdorf AG, Research and Development, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Marc Winnefeld
- Beiersdorf AG, Research and Development, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Frank Lyko
- Division of Epigenetics, DKFZ-ZMBH Alliance, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Elke Grönniger
- Beiersdorf AG, Research and Development, Hamburg, Germany
| | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Peng W, Kepsch A, Kracht TO, Hasan H, Wijayarathna R, Wahle E, Pleuger C, Bhushan S, Günther S, Kauerhof AC, Planinić A, Fietz D, Schuppe HC, Wygrecka M, Loveland KL, Ježek D, Meinhardt A, Hedger MP, Fijak M. Activin A and CCR2 regulate macrophage function in testicular fibrosis caused by experimental autoimmune orchitis. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 79:602. [PMID: 36434305 PMCID: PMC9700630 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04632-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Experimental autoimmune-orchitis (EAO), a rodent model of chronic testicular inflammation and fibrosis, replicates pathogenic changes seen in some cases of human spermatogenic disturbances. During EAO, increased levels of pro-inflammatory and pro-fibrotic mediators such as TNF, CCL2, and activin A are accompanied by infiltration of leukocytes into the testicular parenchyma. Activin A levels correlate with EAO severity, while elevated CCL2 acting through its receptor CCR2 mediates leukocyte trafficking and recruits macrophages. CCR2 + CXCR4 + macrophages producing extracellular matrix proteins contribute widely to fibrogenesis. Furthermore, testicular macrophages (TMs) play a critical role in organ homeostasis. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the role of the activin A/CCL2-CCR2/macrophage axis in the development of testicular fibrosis. Following EAO induction, we observed lower levels of organ damage, collagen deposition, and leukocyte infiltration (including fibronectin+, collagen I+ and CXCR4+ TMs) in Ccr2-/- mice than in WT mice. Furthermore, levels of Il-10, Ccl2, and the activin A subunit Inhba mRNAs were lower in Ccr2-/- EAO testes. Notably, fibronectin+ TMs were also present in biopsies from patients with impaired spermatogenesis and fibrotic alterations. Overexpression of the activin A antagonist follistatin reduced tissue damage and collagen I+ TM accumulation in WT EAO testes, while treating macrophages with activin A in vitro increased the expression of Ccr2, Fn1, Cxcr4, and Mmp2 and enhanced migration along a CCL2 gradient; these effects were abolished by follistatin. Taken together, our data indicate that CCR2 and activin A promote fibrosis during testicular inflammation by regulating macrophage function. Inhibition of CCR2 or activin A protects against damage progression, offering a promising avenue for therapeutic intervention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Peng
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus Liebig University of Giessen, Aulweg 123, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - Artem Kepsch
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus Liebig University of Giessen, Aulweg 123, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - Till O Kracht
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus Liebig University of Giessen, Aulweg 123, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - Hiba Hasan
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus Liebig University of Giessen, Aulweg 123, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - Rukmali Wijayarathna
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Eva Wahle
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus Liebig University of Giessen, Aulweg 123, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - Christiane Pleuger
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus Liebig University of Giessen, Aulweg 123, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - Sudhanshu Bhushan
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus Liebig University of Giessen, Aulweg 123, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - Stefan Günther
- ECCPS Bioinformatics and Deep Sequencing Platform, Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - A Christine Kauerhof
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus Liebig University of Giessen, Aulweg 123, 35392, Giessen, Germany
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Ana Planinić
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
- Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Daniela Fietz
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Justus Liebig University of Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Hans-Christian Schuppe
- Department of Urology, Paediatric Urology and Andrology, Justus Liebig University of Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Małgorzata Wygrecka
- Center for Infection and Genomics of the Lung, German Center for Lung Research, University of Giessen and Marburg Lung Center, Giessen, Germany
| | - Kate L Loveland
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Davor Ježek
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
- Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Andreas Meinhardt
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus Liebig University of Giessen, Aulweg 123, 35392, Giessen, Germany
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Mark P Hedger
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Monika Fijak
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus Liebig University of Giessen, Aulweg 123, 35392, Giessen, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Coentro JQ, May U, Prince S, Zwaagstra J, Ritvos O, Järvinen TAH, Zeugolis DI. Adapting the Scar-in-a-Jar to Skin Fibrosis and Screening Traditional and Contemporary Anti-Fibrotic Therapies. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2021; 9:756399. [PMID: 34765594 PMCID: PMC8576412 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2021.756399] [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: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Skin fibrosis still constitutes an unmet clinical need. Although pharmacological strategies are at the forefront of scientific and technological research and innovation, their clinical translation is hindered by the poor predictive capacity of the currently available in vitro fibrosis models. Indeed, customarily utilised in vitro scarring models are conducted in a low extracellular matrix milieu, which constitutes an oxymoron for the in-hand pathophysiology. Herein, we coupled macromolecular crowding (enhances and accelerates extracellular matrix deposition) with transforming growth factor β1 (TGFβ1; induces trans-differentiation of fibroblasts to myofibroblasts) in human dermal fibroblast cultures to develop a skin fibrosis in vitro model and to screen a range of anti-fibrotic families (corticosteroids, inhibitors of histone deacetylases, inhibitors of collagen crosslinking, inhibitors of TGFβ1 and pleiotropic inhibitors of fibrotic activation). Data obtained demonstrated that macromolecular crowding combined with TGFβ1 significantly enhanced collagen deposition and myofibroblast transformation. Among the anti-fibrotic compounds assessed, trichostatin A (inhibitors of histone deacetylases); serelaxin and pirfenidone (pleiotropic inhibitors of fibrotic activation); and soluble TGFβ receptor trap (inhibitor of TGFβ signalling) resulted in the highest decrease of collagen type I deposition (even higher than triamcinolone acetonide, the gold standard in clinical practice). This study further advocates the potential of macromolecular crowding in the development of in vitro pathophysiology models.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- João Q Coentro
- Regenerative, Modular and Developmental Engineering Laboratory (REMODEL) and Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) Centre for Research in Medical Devices (CÚRAM), National University of Ireland Galway (NUI Galway), Galway, Ireland
| | - Ulrike May
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Stuart Prince
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - John Zwaagstra
- Human Health Therapeutics Research Centre, National Research Council Canada, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | | | - Tero A H Järvinen
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland.,Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | - Dimitrios I Zeugolis
- Regenerative, Modular and Developmental Engineering Laboratory (REMODEL) and Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) Centre for Research in Medical Devices (CÚRAM), National University of Ireland Galway (NUI Galway), Galway, Ireland.,Regenerative, Modular and Developmental Engineering Laboratory (REMODEL), Charles Institute of Dermatology, Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research and School of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University College Dublin (UCD), Dublin, Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Agrin-Matrix Metalloproteinase-12 axis confers a mechanically competent microenvironment in skin wound healing. Nat Commun 2021; 12:6349. [PMID: 34732729 PMCID: PMC8566503 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-26717-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2020] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
An orchestrated wound healing program drives skin repair via collective epidermal cell proliferation and migration. However, the molecular determinants of the tissue microenvironment supporting wound healing remain poorly understood. Herein we discover that proteoglycan Agrin is enriched within the early wound-microenvironment and is indispensable for efficient healing. Agrin enhances the mechanoperception of keratinocytes by augmenting their stiffness, traction stress and fluidic velocity fields in retaliation to bulk substrate rigidity. Importantly, Agrin overhauls cytoskeletal architecture via enhancing actomyosin cables upon sensing geometric stress and force following an injury. Moreover, we identify Matrix Metalloproteinase-12 (MMP12) as a downstream effector of Agrin's mechanoperception. We also reveal a promising potential of a recombinant Agrin fragment as a bio-additive material that assimilates optimal mechanobiological and pro-angiogenic parameters by engaging MMP12 in accelerated wound healing. Together, we propose that Agrin-MMP12 pathway integrates a broad range of mechanical stimuli to coordinate a competent skin wound healing niche.
Collapse
|
30
|
Fearon AE, Slabber CF, Kuklin A, Bachofner M, Tortola L, Pohlmeier L, Pantasis S, Hornemann T, Chen L, Kopf M, Werner S. Fibroblast growth factor receptor 3 in hepatocytes protects from toxin-induced liver injury and fibrosis. iScience 2021; 24:103143. [PMID: 34646985 PMCID: PMC8497853 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2021.103143] [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: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 08/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The liver's remarkable regenerative capacity is orchestrated by several growth factors and cytokines. Fibroblast growth factor receptor 3 (Fgfr3) is frequently overexpressed in hepatocellular carcinoma and promotes cancer aggressiveness, whereas its role in liver homeostasis, repair and regeneration is unknown. We show here that Fgfr3 is expressed by hepatocytes in the healthy liver. Its major ligand, Fgf9, is mainly expressed by non-parenchymal cells and upregulated upon injury. Mice lacking Fgfr3 in hepatocytes exhibit increased tissue necrosis after acute toxin treatment and more excessive fibrosis after long-term injury. This was not a consequence of immunological alterations in the non-injured liver as revealed by comprehensive flow cytometry analysis. Rather, loss of Fgfr3 altered the expression of metabolic and pro-fibrotic genes in hepatocytes. These results identify a paracrine Fgf9-Fgfr3 signaling pathway that protects from toxin-induced cell death and the resulting liver fibrosis and suggests a potential use of FGFR3 ligands for therapeutic purposes. Fgfr3 is important for hepatocyte survival following CCl4-induced liver injury Fgfr3 in hepatocytes regulates expression of metabolic and pro-fibrotic genes Fgfr3 protects from extensive fibrosis after chronic CCl4 treatment Fgf receptors have unique, but also overlapping functions in hepatocytes
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abbie E Fearon
- Institute of Molecular Health Sciences, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH) Zurich, Otto-Stern-Weg 7, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Coenraad F Slabber
- Institute of Molecular Health Sciences, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH) Zurich, Otto-Stern-Weg 7, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Andrii Kuklin
- Institute of Molecular Health Sciences, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH) Zurich, Otto-Stern-Weg 7, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Marc Bachofner
- Institute of Molecular Health Sciences, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH) Zurich, Otto-Stern-Weg 7, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Luigi Tortola
- Institute of Molecular Health Sciences, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH) Zurich, Otto-Stern-Weg 7, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Lea Pohlmeier
- Institute of Molecular Health Sciences, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH) Zurich, Otto-Stern-Weg 7, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Sophia Pantasis
- Institute of Molecular Health Sciences, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH) Zurich, Otto-Stern-Weg 7, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Thorsten Hornemann
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry, University Hospital Zurich, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Lin Chen
- Center of Bone Metabolism and Repair, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Trauma Center, Institute of Surgery Research, Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400042, China
| | - Manfred Kopf
- Institute of Molecular Health Sciences, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH) Zurich, Otto-Stern-Weg 7, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Sabine Werner
- Institute of Molecular Health Sciences, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH) Zurich, Otto-Stern-Weg 7, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Abstract
One of the most important functions of the skin, i.e., protection from mechanical damage, is ensured by collagen fibers and their interaction with other elements in the extracellular matrix. Collagen fiber turnover is a complex multi-stage process. At each stage, a disruption may occur, leading to a decrease in the mechanical properties of the connective tissue. Clinically, collagen formation disorders manifest themselves as increased flabbiness and looseness of the skin and as early signs of facial aging. In addition to the clinical picture, it is important for cosmetologists and dermatologists to understand the etiology and pathogenesis of collagenopathies. In our review, we summarized and systematized the available information concerning the role of genetic and epigenetic factors in skin collagen fiber turnover. Furthermore, we focused on the functions of different types of collagens present in the skin. Understanding the etiology of impaired collagen formation can allow doctors to prescribe pathogenetically based treatments, achieve the most effective results, and minimize adverse reactions.
Collapse
|
32
|
Metabolic orchestration of the wound healing response. Cell Metab 2021; 33:1726-1743. [PMID: 34384520 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmet.2021.07.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2021] [Revised: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Wound healing requires cooperation between different cell types, among which macrophages play a central role. In particular, inflammatory macrophages are engaged in the initial response to wounding, and alternatively activated macrophages are essential for wound closure and the resolution of tissue repair. The links between temporal activation-induced changes in the metabolism of such macrophages and the influence this has on their functional states, along with the realization that metabolites play both intrinsic and extrinsic roles in the cells that produce them, has focused attention on the metabolism of wound healing. Here, we discuss macrophage metabolism during distinct stages of normal healing and its related pathologic processes, such as during cancer and fibrosis. Further, we frame these insights in a broader context of the current understanding of macrophage metabolic reprogramming linked to cellular activation and function. Finally, we discuss parallels between the metabolism of macrophages and fibroblasts, the latter being a key stromal cell type in wound healing, and consider the importance of the metabolic interplay between different cell types in the wound microenvironment.
Collapse
|
33
|
Systems of conductive skin for power transfer in clinical applications. EUROPEAN BIOPHYSICS JOURNAL: EBJ 2021; 51:171-184. [PMID: 34477935 PMCID: PMC8964546 DOI: 10.1007/s00249-021-01568-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Revised: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
The primary aim of this article is to review the clinical challenges related to the supply of power in implanted left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) by means of transcutaneous drivelines. In effect of that, we present the preventive measures and post-operative protocols that are regularly employed to address the leading problem of driveline infections. Due to the lack of reliable wireless solutions for power transfer in LVADs, the development of new driveline configurations remains at the forefront of different strategies that aim to power LVADs in a less destructive manner. To this end, skin damage and breach formation around transcutaneous LVAD drivelines represent key challenges before improving the current standard of care. For this reason, we assess recent strategies on the surface functionalization of LVAD drivelines, which aim to limit the incidence of driveline infection by directing the responses of the skin tissue. Moreover, we propose a class of power transfer systems that could leverage the ability of skin tissue to effectively heal short diameter wounds. In this direction, we employed a novel method to generate thin conductive wires of controllable surface topography with the potential to minimize skin disruption and eliminate the problem of driveline infections. Our initial results suggest the viability of the small diameter wires for the investigation of new power transfer systems for LVADs. Overall, this review uniquely compiles a diverse number of topics with the aim to instigate new research ventures on the design of power transfer systems for IMDs, and specifically LVADs.
Collapse
|
34
|
Plikus MV, Wang X, Sinha S, Forte E, Thompson SM, Herzog EL, Driskell RR, Rosenthal N, Biernaskie J, Horsley V. Fibroblasts: Origins, definitions, and functions in health and disease. Cell 2021; 184:3852-3872. [PMID: 34297930 PMCID: PMC8566693 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2021.06.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 305] [Impact Index Per Article: 101.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2021] [Revised: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Fibroblasts are diverse mesenchymal cells that participate in tissue homeostasis and disease by producing complex extracellular matrix and creating signaling niches through biophysical and biochemical cues. Transcriptionally and functionally heterogeneous across and within organs, fibroblasts encode regional positional information and maintain distinct cellular progeny. We summarize their development, lineages, functions, and contributions to fibrosis in four fibroblast-rich organs: skin, lung, skeletal muscle, and heart. We propose that fibroblasts are uniquely poised for tissue repair by easily reentering the cell cycle and exhibiting a reversible plasticity in phenotype and cell fate. These properties, when activated aberrantly, drive fibrotic disorders in humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maksim V Plikus
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA; Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA; NSF-Simons Center for Multiscale Cell Fate Research, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA; Center for Complex Biological Systems, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA.
| | - Xiaojie Wang
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA; Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA; NSF-Simons Center for Multiscale Cell Fate Research, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Sarthak Sinha
- Department of Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Elvira Forte
- The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA; National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London SW7 2BX, UK
| | - Sean M Thompson
- School of Molecular Biosciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, USA
| | - Erica L Herzog
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA.
| | - Ryan R Driskell
- School of Molecular Biosciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, USA; Center for Reproductive Biology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, USA.
| | - Nadia Rosenthal
- The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA; National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London SW7 2BX, UK.
| | - Jeff Biernaskie
- Department of Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada; Department of Surgery, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada; Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada; Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada.
| | - Valerie Horsley
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA; Department of Dermatology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Aronoff MR, Hiebert P, Hentzen NB, Werner S, Wennemers H. Imaging and targeting LOX-mediated tissue remodeling with a reactive collagen peptide. Nat Chem Biol 2021; 17:865-871. [PMID: 34253910 DOI: 10.1038/s41589-021-00830-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Collagens are fibrous proteins that are integral to the strength and stability of connective tissues. During collagen maturation, lysyl oxidases (LOX) initiate the cross-linking of fibers, but abnormal LOX activity is associated with impaired tissue function as seen in fibrotic and malignant diseases. Visualizing and targeting this dynamic process in healthy and diseased tissue is important, but so far not feasible. Here we present a probe for the simultaneous monitoring and targeting of LOX-mediated collagen cross-linking that combines a LOX-activity sensor with a collagen peptide to chemoselectively target endogenous aldehydes generated by LOX. This synergistic probe becomes covalently anchored and lights up in vivo and in situ in response to LOX at the sites where cross-linking occurs, as demonstrated by staining of normal skin and cancer sections. We anticipate that our reactive collagen-based sensor will improve understanding of collagen remodeling and provide opportunities for the diagnosis of fibrotic and malignant diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Paul Hiebert
- Institute of Molecular Health Sciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Nina B Hentzen
- Laboratory of Organic Chemistry, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Sabine Werner
- Institute of Molecular Health Sciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Helma Wennemers
- Laboratory of Organic Chemistry, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Clark KEN, Campochiaro C, Csomor E, Taylor A, Nevin K, Galwey N, Morse MA, Singh J, Teo YV, Ong VH, Derrett-Smith E, Wisniacki N, Flint SM, Denton CP. Molecular basis for clinical diversity between autoantibody subsets in diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis. Ann Rheum Dis 2021; 80:1584-1593. [PMID: 34230031 DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2021-220402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Clinical heterogeneity is a cardinal feature of systemic sclerosis (SSc). Hallmark SSc autoantibodies are central to diagnosis and associate with distinct patterns of skin-based and organ-based complications. Understanding molecular differences between patients will benefit clinical practice and research and give insight into pathogenesis of the disease. We aimed to improve understanding of the molecular differences between key diffuse cutaneous SSc subgroups as defined by their SSc-specific autoantibodies METHODS: We have used high-dimensional transcriptional and proteomic analysis of blood and the skin in a well-characterised cohort of SSc (n=52) and healthy controls (n=16) to understand the molecular basis of clinical diversity in SSc and explore differences between the hallmark antinuclear autoantibody (ANA) reactivities. RESULTS Our data define a molecular spectrum of SSc based on skin gene expression and serum protein analysis, reflecting recognised clinical subgroups. Moreover, we show that antitopoisomerase-1 antibodies and anti-RNA polymerase III antibodies specificities associate with remarkably different longitudinal change in serum protein markers of fibrosis and divergent gene expression profiles. Overlapping and distinct disease processes are defined using individual patient pathway analysis. CONCLUSIONS Our findings provide insight into clinical diversity and imply pathogenetic differences between ANA-based subgroups. This supports stratification of SSc cases by ANA antibody subtype in clinical trials and may explain different outcomes across ANA subgroups in trials targeting specific pathogenic mechanisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Corrado Campochiaro
- Centre for Rheumatology and Connective Tissue Diseases, UCL Division of Medicine, London, UK
| | - Eszter Csomor
- Clinical Pharmacology & Experimental Medicine, GlaxoSmithKline Research and Development, Stevenage, UK
| | - Adam Taylor
- Clinical Pharmacology & Experimental Medicine, GlaxoSmithKline Research and Development, Stevenage, UK
| | - Katherine Nevin
- Clinical Pharmacology & Experimental Medicine, GlaxoSmithKline Research and Development, Stevenage, UK
| | - Nicholas Galwey
- Clinical Pharmacology & Experimental Medicine, GlaxoSmithKline Research and Development, Stevenage, UK
| | - Mary A Morse
- Clinical Pharmacology & Experimental Medicine, GlaxoSmithKline Research and Development, Stevenage, UK
| | - Jennifer Singh
- Clinical Pharmacology & Experimental Medicine, GlaxoSmithKline Research and Development, Stevenage, UK
| | - Yee Voan Teo
- Clinical Pharmacology & Experimental Medicine, GlaxoSmithKline Research and Development, Stevenage, UK
| | - Voon H Ong
- Centre for Rheumatology and Connective Tissue Diseases, UCL Division of Medicine, London, UK
| | - Emma Derrett-Smith
- Centre for Rheumatology and Connective Tissue Diseases, UCL Division of Medicine, London, UK
| | - Nicolas Wisniacki
- Clinical Pharmacology & Experimental Medicine, GlaxoSmithKline Research and Development, Stevenage, UK
| | - Shaun M Flint
- Clinical Pharmacology & Experimental Medicine, GlaxoSmithKline Research and Development, Stevenage, UK
| | - Christopher P Denton
- Centre for Rheumatology and Connective Tissue Diseases, UCL Division of Medicine, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Abstract
Numerous individuals suffer from impaired wound healing, such as chronic ulcers, severe burns and immune disorders, resulting in both public health and economic burdens. Skin is the first line of defense and the largest organ of the human body, however, an incomplete understanding of underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms of dermal repair leads to a lack of effective therapy for healing impaired wounds. There are strong clinical and social needs for improved therapeutic approaches to enhance endogenous tissue repair and regenerative capacity. The purpose of this review is to illuminate the cellular and molecular aspects of the healing process and highlight potential therapeutic strategies to accelerate translational research and the development of clinical therapies in dermal wounds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fan Yang
- Department of Traumatic Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science & Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiangjun Bai
- Department of Traumatic Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science & Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaojing Dai
- MD Anderson Cancer Center, The Advanced Technology Genomics Core, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Yong Li
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery & Biomedical Engineering, Western Michigan University Homer Stryker MD School of Medicine, Kalamazoo, MI 49008, USA
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Wang X, Song W, Zhang F, Huang R. Dihydroartemisinin Inhibits TGF-β-Induced Fibrosis in Human Tenon Fibroblasts via Inducing Autophagy. DRUG DESIGN DEVELOPMENT AND THERAPY 2021; 15:973-981. [PMID: 33688170 PMCID: PMC7937381 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s280322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Background The formation of hypertrophic scars (HS) can result in the failure of glaucoma surgery, and fibrosis is known to be closely associated with the progression of HS. Dihydroartemisinin (DHA) has been reported to inhibit the progression of fibrosis; however, whether DHA can alleviate the formation of HS remains unclear. Methods In the present study, in order to examine the effects of DHA on the progression of HS, human Tenon's capsule fibroblasts (HTFs) were isolated from patients who underwent glaucoma surgery. In addition, Western blot analysis, microtubule associated protein 1 light chain 3 α staining and reverse transcription-quantitative PCR were performed to detect protein and mRNA expression levels in the HTFs, respectively. Cell proliferation was detected by Ki67 staining. Flow cytometry was used to examine apoptosis and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in the HTFs. Results The results revealed that TGF-β promoted the proliferation and fibrosis of HTFs; however, DHA significantly reversed the effects of TGF-β by increasing cell autophagy. In addition, DHA notably induced the apoptosis of TGF-β-stimulated HTFs by increasing the ROS levels, while these increases were partially reversed by 3-methyladenine. Furthermore, DHA notably increased the expression of microRNA (miR)-145-5p in HTFs in a dose-dependent manner. Conclusion The present study demonstrated that DHA inhibits the TGF-β-induced fibrosis of HTFs by inducing autophagy. These findings may aid in the development of novel agents for the prevention of the formation of HS following glaucoma surgery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyuan Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, 150001, People's Republic of China
| | - Wuqi Song
- Department of Microbiology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, 150001, People's Republic of China
| | - Fengmin Zhang
- Department of Microbiology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, 150001, People's Republic of China
| | - Renping Huang
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, 150001, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Wu Q, Yang Z, Huang Y, Wang L, Weng R, Yang J. Effect of Activin A on activation status of monocytes in acute-phase Kawasaki disease. Clin Exp Med 2021; 21:407-414. [PMID: 33630201 DOI: 10.1007/s10238-021-00695-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Kawasaki disease is a kind of self-limited systemic vasculitis involving middle and small arteries, which usually occurs in children under 5 years old. Excessive inflammatory response caused by activation of monocytes is one of the important mechanisms of Kawasaki disease. Activated monocytes secrete large amounts of inflammatory mediators such as TNF-α and IL-1β. Activin A, a member of transforming growth factor-β superfamily, is a multifunctional growth and transforming factor. Several experimental evidences pinpoint that Activin A can regulate multiple biological function of the immune system. However, whether Activin A is involved in regulation of activation of monocytes in Kawasaki disease was not well characterized. Here, this study showed that the expression of Activin A in serum decreased in acute-phase Kawasaki disease. Furthermore, Activin A inhibits activin type IIA receptor, activin type IB receptor, CD86 and CD80 expression in over-activated monocytes. In addition, Activin A inhibited Smad3 expression and NF-κB signaling pathways. Specific function and mechanism of Activin A in acute-phase Kawasaki disease need further study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qian Wu
- Shenzhen Graduate School, School of Chemical Biology and Biotechnology, State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, Key Laboratory of Chemical Genome, Peking University, Shenzhen, 518055, China.,Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Shenzhen Children's Hospital, 7019 Yitian Road, Shenzhen, 518026, China
| | - Zhi Yang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Shenzhen Children's Hospital, 7019 Yitian Road, Shenzhen, 518026, China
| | - Yanyan Huang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Shenzhen Children's Hospital, 7019 Yitian Road, Shenzhen, 518026, China
| | - Linlin Wang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Shenzhen Children's Hospital, 7019 Yitian Road, Shenzhen, 518026, China
| | - Ruohang Weng
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Shenzhen Children's Hospital, 7019 Yitian Road, Shenzhen, 518026, China
| | - Jun Yang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Shenzhen Children's Hospital, 7019 Yitian Road, Shenzhen, 518026, China.
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Wu Q, Weng R, Xu Y, Wang L, Huang Y, Yang J. Activin a suppresses peripheral CD8 + T lymphocyte activity in acute-phase Kawasaki disease. BMC Immunol 2021; 22:17. [PMID: 33622252 PMCID: PMC7903692 DOI: 10.1186/s12865-021-00407-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Kawasaki disease is an autoimmune disease characterized by systemic vasculitis of unknown aetiology and most commonly occurs in children under 5 years old. Previous studies have found that the over-activation of lymphocytes is an important mechanism of Kawasaki disease. Activin A, also known as immunosuppressive factor P, is a multifunctional growth and transforming factor. However, whether activin A is involved in the regulation of peripheral lymphocytes activity in Kawasaki disease is unclear. Thus, we aimed to investigate the effect of activin A on the activity of peripheral lymphocytes in acute-phase Kawasaki disease. METHODS Seven patients with Kawasaki disease and seven healthy controls were studied. Peripheral blood lymphocytes were isolated by Ficoll density gradient centrifugation. The activation of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells and CD19+ B cells was investigated by flow cytometry. The expression of activin type IIA receptors was investigated by flow cytometry. RESULTS Immune imbalance in CD4 and CD8 lymphocytes were detected in acute-phase Kawasaki disease. The expression of activin type IIA receptors on CD8+ T cells and CD19+ B cells was increased in acute-phase Kawasaki disease and decreased following treatment with activin A. Activin A suppressed the expression of CD25 and CD69 on CD8+ T cells and the expression of CD69 on CD19+ B cells. CONCLUSIONS The expression of activin type IIA receptor was increased on CD8+ T cells and CD19+ B cells in Kawasaki disease. Activin A suppressed the expression of CD25, CD69 and activin type IIA receptors on peripheral CD8+ T lymphocyte. Activin A plays different roles in different lymphocyte subsets and suppresses peripheral CD8+ T lymphocyte activity in acute-phase Kawasaki disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qian Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, Key Laboratory of Chemical Genome, Peking University, Shenzhen Graduate School, School of Chemical Biology & Biotechnology, Shenzhen, 518055, China.,Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Shenzhen Children's Hospital, 7019 Yitian Road, Shenzhen, 518026, China
| | - Ruohang Weng
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Shenzhen Children's Hospital, 7019 Yitian Road, Shenzhen, 518026, China
| | - Yongbin Xu
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Shenzhen Children's Hospital, 7019 Yitian Road, Shenzhen, 518026, China
| | - Linlin Wang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Shenzhen Children's Hospital, 7019 Yitian Road, Shenzhen, 518026, China
| | - Yanyan Huang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Shenzhen Children's Hospital, 7019 Yitian Road, Shenzhen, 518026, China
| | - Jun Yang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Shenzhen Children's Hospital, 7019 Yitian Road, Shenzhen, 518026, China.
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Luo G, Sun Y, Zhang J, Xu Z, Lu W, Wang H, Zhang Y, Li H, Mao Z, Ye S, Cheng B, Fang X. Nanodefensin-encased hydrogel with dual bactericidal and pro-regenerative functions for advanced wound therapy. Am J Cancer Res 2021; 11:3642-3660. [PMID: 33664853 PMCID: PMC7914350 DOI: 10.7150/thno.53089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Accepted: 12/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Host defense peptides (HDPs) have emerged as a novel therapeutic paradigm for wound management; however, their clinical applications remain a challenge owing to their poor pharmacological properties and lack of suitable pharmaceutical formulations. Nanodefensin (ND), a nanoengineered human α-defensin 5 (HD5), has shown improved pharmacological properties relative to the parent compound. In this study, we engineered a nanodefensin-encased hydrogel (NDEFgel), investigated the effects of NDEFgel on wound healing, and elucidated underlying mechanisms. Method: ND was chemically synthesized and tested functions by in vitro antimicrobial and scratch assays and western blotting. Different NDEFgels were evaluated by in vitro characterizations including degradation, drug release and antimicrobial activity. In full-thickness excisional murine models, the optimal NDEFgel was directly applied onto wound sites, and the efficacy was assessed. Moreover, the underlying mechanisms of pro-regenerative effect developed by NDEFgel were also explored. Results: Apart from bactericidal effects, ND modulated fibroblast behaviors by promoting migration and differentiation. Among the tested hydrogels, the Pluronic F127 (Plu) hydrogel represented the most desirable carrier for ND delivery owing to its favorable controlled release and compatibility with ND. Local treatment of NDEFgel on the wound bed resulted in accelerated wound regeneration and attenuated bacterial burden. We further demonstrated that NDEFgel therapy significantly upregulated genes related to collagen deposition and fibroblasts, and increased the expression of myofibroblasts and Rac1. We therefore found that Rac1 is a critical factor in the ND-induced modulation of fibroblast behaviors in vitro through a Rac1-dependent cytoskeletal rearrangement. Conclusion: Our results indicate that NDEFgel may be a promising dual-action therapeutic option for advanced wound management in the future.
Collapse
|
42
|
Pensalfini M, Rotach M, Hopf R, Bielicki A, Santoprete R, Mazza E. How cosmetic tightening products modulate the biomechanics and morphology of human skin. Acta Biomater 2020; 115:299-316. [PMID: 32853810 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2020.08.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Revised: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The active and passive mechanical behavior of a cosmetic tightening product for skin anti-aging is investigated based on a wide range of in vivo and in vitro measurements. The experimental data are used to inform a numerical model of the attained cosmetic effect, which is then implemented in a commercial finite-element framework and used to analyze the mechanisms that regulate the biomechanical interaction between the native tissue and the tightening film. Such a film reduces wrinkles and enhances skin consistency by increasing its stiffness by 48-107% and reducing inelastic, non-recoverable deformations (-47%). The substrate deformability influences both the extent of tightening and the reduction of wrinkle amplitude. The present findings allow, for the first time, to rationalize the mechanisms of action of cosmetic products with a tightening action and provide quantitative evidence for further optimization of this fascinating class of biomaterials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Pensalfini
- Institute for Mechanical Systems, Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering, ETH Zurich, Leonhardstrasse 21, Zurich 8092, Switzerland; Laboratori de Càlcul Numèric, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya-BarcelonaTech, Carrer de Jordi Girona 1-3, Barcelona 08034, Spain.
| | - M Rotach
- Institute for Mechanical Systems, Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering, ETH Zurich, Leonhardstrasse 21, Zurich 8092, Switzerland
| | - R Hopf
- Institute for Mechanical Systems, Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering, ETH Zurich, Leonhardstrasse 21, Zurich 8092, Switzerland; Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Überlandstrasse 129, Dübendorf 8600, Switzerland.
| | - A Bielicki
- L'Oréal Research & Innovation, Avenue Eugène Schueller 1, Aulnay-sous-Bois 93601, France.
| | - R Santoprete
- L'Oréal Research & Innovation, Avenue Eugène Schueller 1, Aulnay-sous-Bois 93601, France.
| | - E Mazza
- Institute for Mechanical Systems, Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering, ETH Zurich, Leonhardstrasse 21, Zurich 8092, Switzerland; Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Überlandstrasse 129, Dübendorf 8600, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Wound Repair, Scar Formation, and Cancer: Converging on Activin. Trends Mol Med 2020; 26:1107-1117. [PMID: 32878730 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2020.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Revised: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Wound repair is a highly regulated process that requires the interaction of various cell types. It has been shown that cancers use the mechanisms of wound healing to promote their own growth. Therefore, it is of importance to identify common regulators of wound repair and tumor formation and to unravel their functions and mechanisms of action. An exciting example is activin, which acts on multiple cell types in wounds and tumors, thereby promoting healing, but also scar formation and tumorigenesis. Here, we summarize current knowledge on the role of activin in these processes and highlight the therapeutic potential of activin or activin antagonists for the treatment of impaired healing or excessive scarring and cancer, respectively.
Collapse
|