1
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Ellingsen DG, Sikkeland LIB, Lund MB, Skaugset NP, Ulvestad B. A study of inflammatory biomarkers in crystalline silica exposed rock drillers. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2024; 97:587-595. [PMID: 38702427 DOI: 10.1007/s00420-024-02070-2] [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: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Crystalline silica (CS) exposure can cause serious lung disease in humans, but mechanisms of pulmonary toxicity have not been completely elucidated. AIMS To assess pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory biomarkers and biomarkers related to the development of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and fibrosis in serum of rock drillers exposed to CS. METHODS Rock drillers (N = 123) exposed to CS and non-specified particulate matter (PM) were compared to 48 referents without current or past exposure to PM in a cross-sectional study. RESULTS The rock drillers had been exposed to CS for 10.7 years on average. Geometric mean (GM) current exposure was estimated to 36 µg/m3. Their GM concentration of matrix metalloproteinase 12 (MMP-12) was significantly higher (16 vs. 13 ng/L; p = 0.04), while interleukin (IL) 6 and IL-8 were significantly lower compared to the referents. Also pentraxin 3 was significantly lower (3558 vs. 4592 ng/L; p = 0.01) in the rock drillers. A dose-response relationship was observed between cumulative exposure to CS and MMP-12, the highest exposed subgroup having significantly higher MMP-12 concentrations than the referents. CONCLUSION Exposure to CS may increase circulating MMP-12 concentrations in a dose-response related fashion. The results may also suggest a down-regulation of pro-inflammatory pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dag G Ellingsen
- National Institute of Occupational Health, Pb 5330, Majorstuen, Oslo, N-0304, Norway.
| | - Liv Ingunn Bjoner Sikkeland
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - May Britt Lund
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Nils Petter Skaugset
- National Institute of Occupational Health, Pb 5330, Majorstuen, Oslo, N-0304, Norway
| | - Bente Ulvestad
- National Institute of Occupational Health, Pb 5330, Majorstuen, Oslo, N-0304, Norway
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2
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Rezaei A, Ghafari ME, Sohrabi Y, Aliasghari F, Yousefinejad S, Soleimani E, Jafari S. Systemic inflammation indices as hematological biomarkers of inflammatory response in non-silicotic workers exposed to respirable silica dust. Toxicol Lett 2024; 395:26-39. [PMID: 38513876 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2024.03.005] [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: 08/23/2023] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
This cross-sectional study was performed to assess whether systemic inflammatory indices, including systemic inflammation response index (SIRI), systemic immune‑inflammation index (SII), and aggregate index of systemic inflammation (AISI), can be considered as possible inflammatory markers in silica-exposed workers with no diagnosis of silicosis. We studied 371 non-silicotic workers exposed to respirable silica dust (RSD) and 1422 reference workers. The workers' exposure to RSD were assessed and the inflammatory indices were compared between subgroups of the exposed workers based on the severity and duration of exposure. Correlations between inflammatory indices and the pulmonary function parameters were investigated. Also, the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and Youden index were used to determine the cut-off values of the SII, SIRI, and AISI. Significant dose-response relationships were observed between duration of exposure and all indices except monocytes and LMR. No significant interaction was observed between duration of exposure to RSD and smoking. Borderline significant correlations were observed between AISI and SIRI with forced expiratory volume (FEV1) and FEV1 to forced vital capacity (FVC) ratio. Higher AUCs were obtained for SII and AISI, respectively. The cut-off values for these biomarkers to be considered abnormal were > 348.48 for SII, > 183.78 for AISI, and > 0.768 for SIRI. Overall, the present study showed for the first time, that SII, AISI, and SIRI might be considered as available, easy-to-obtain, and non-expensive markers of inflammation in non-silicotic workers with a long duration of exposure to RSD who are at risk of developing silicosis in subsequent years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amirmohammad Rezaei
- Department of Occupational Health, School of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Ebrahim Ghafari
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Faculty of Health, Qom University of Medical Sciences, Qom, Iran
| | - Younes Sohrabi
- Department of Occupational Health and Safety Engineering, Shoushtar Faculty of Medical Sciences, Shoushtar, Iran
| | - Fereshteh Aliasghari
- Department of Nutrition, School of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Saeed Yousefinejad
- Department of Occupational Health, School of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Esmaeel Soleimani
- Department of Occupational Health, School of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
| | - Saeed Jafari
- Department of Occupational Health, School of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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3
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Liu TT, Sun HF, Han YX, Zhan Y, Jiang JD. The role of inflammation in silicosis. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1362509. [PMID: 38515835 PMCID: PMC10955140 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1362509] [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: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Silicosis is a chronic illness marked by diffuse fibrosis in lung tissue resulting from continuous exposure to SiO2-rich dust in the workplace. The onset and progression of silicosis is a complicated and poorly understood pathological process involving numerous cells and molecules. However, silicosis poses a severe threat to public health in developing countries, where it is the most prevalent occupational disease. There is convincing evidence supporting that innate and adaptive immune cells, as well as their cytokines, play a significant role in the development of silicosis. In this review, we describe the roles of immune cells and cytokines in silicosis, and summarize current knowledge on several important inflammatory signaling pathways associated with the disease, aiming to provide novel targets and strategies for the treatment of silicosis-related inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Yun Zhan
- Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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4
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Zhao M, Wang M, Chen X, Gao Y, Chen Q, Wang L, Bao Q, Sun D, Du W, Xu Y, Xie L, Jiang X, Zhang L, Peng L, Zhang B, Yao Y. Targeting progranulin alleviated silica particles-induced pulmonary inflammation and fibrosis via decreasing Il-6 and Tgf-β1/Smad. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 465:133199. [PMID: 38103296 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.133199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Long term exposure to silica particles leads to various diseases, among which silicosis is of great concern. Silicosis is an interstitial lung disease caused by inhalation of silica particles in production environments. However, the mechanisms underlying silicosis remains unclear. Our previous studies revealed that progranulin (Pgrn) promoted the expression of pro-inflammatory factors in alveolar macrophages treated with silica particles and the secretion of extracellular matrix of pulmonary fibroblasts. Nevertheless, the role of Pgrn in silica particles-induced silicosis in vivo was unknown. This study found that silica particles increased Pgrn expression in silicosis patients. Pgrn deficiency reduced lung inflammation and fibrosis in silica particles-induced silicosis mouse models. Subsequently, based on transcriptional sequencing and interleukin (Il) -6 knockout mouse models, results demonstrated that Pgrn deficiency might decrease silicosis inflammation by reducing the production of Il-6, thereby modulating pulmonary fibrosis in the early stage of silicosis mouse models. Furthermore, another mechanism through which Pgrn deficiency reduced fibrosis in silicosis mouse models was the regulation of the transforming growth factor (Tgf) -β1/Smad signaling pathway. Conclusively, Pgrn contributed to silicosis inflammation and fibrosis induced by silica particles, indicating that Pgrn could be a promising therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manyu Zhao
- Molecular Toxicology Laboratory of Sichuan Provincial Education office, Institute of Systems Epidemiology, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Mengzhu Wang
- Molecular Toxicology Laboratory of Sichuan Provincial Education office, Institute of Systems Epidemiology, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Xuxi Chen
- Molecular Toxicology Laboratory of Sichuan Provincial Education office, Institute of Systems Epidemiology, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Ying Gao
- Molecular Toxicology Laboratory of Sichuan Provincial Education office, Institute of Systems Epidemiology, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Qing Chen
- Molecular Toxicology Laboratory of Sichuan Provincial Education office, Institute of Systems Epidemiology, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Liqun Wang
- Molecular Toxicology Laboratory of Sichuan Provincial Education office, Institute of Systems Epidemiology, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Qixue Bao
- Molecular Toxicology Laboratory of Sichuan Provincial Education office, Institute of Systems Epidemiology, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Donglei Sun
- Molecular Toxicology Laboratory of Sichuan Provincial Education office, Institute of Systems Epidemiology, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Wen Du
- Molecular Toxicology Laboratory of Sichuan Provincial Education office, Institute of Systems Epidemiology, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; West China Occupational Pneumoconiosis Cohort Study (WCOPCS) working group, Research Center For Prevention and Therapy of Occupational Disease, West China-PUMC C.C. Chen Institute of Health, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yunyi Xu
- Molecular Toxicology Laboratory of Sichuan Provincial Education office, Institute of Systems Epidemiology, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Linshen Xie
- Molecular Toxicology Laboratory of Sichuan Provincial Education office, Institute of Systems Epidemiology, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; West China Occupational Pneumoconiosis Cohort Study (WCOPCS) working group, Research Center For Prevention and Therapy of Occupational Disease, West China-PUMC C.C. Chen Institute of Health, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Xia Jiang
- Molecular Toxicology Laboratory of Sichuan Provincial Education office, Institute of Systems Epidemiology, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; West China Occupational Pneumoconiosis Cohort Study (WCOPCS) working group, Research Center For Prevention and Therapy of Occupational Disease, West China-PUMC C.C. Chen Institute of Health, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Ling Zhang
- Molecular Toxicology Laboratory of Sichuan Provincial Education office, Institute of Systems Epidemiology, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; West China Occupational Pneumoconiosis Cohort Study (WCOPCS) working group, Research Center For Prevention and Therapy of Occupational Disease, West China-PUMC C.C. Chen Institute of Health, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Lijun Peng
- Molecular Toxicology Laboratory of Sichuan Provincial Education office, Institute of Systems Epidemiology, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; West China Occupational Pneumoconiosis Cohort Study (WCOPCS) working group, Research Center For Prevention and Therapy of Occupational Disease, West China-PUMC C.C. Chen Institute of Health, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Ben Zhang
- Molecular Toxicology Laboratory of Sichuan Provincial Education office, Institute of Systems Epidemiology, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; West China Occupational Pneumoconiosis Cohort Study (WCOPCS) working group, Research Center For Prevention and Therapy of Occupational Disease, West China-PUMC C.C. Chen Institute of Health, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; Departments of Cardiology, Neurology, and Oncology, Hainan General Hospital and Hainan Affiliated Hospital, Hainan Medical University, Haikou 570311, China.
| | - Yuqin Yao
- Molecular Toxicology Laboratory of Sichuan Provincial Education office, Institute of Systems Epidemiology, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; West China Occupational Pneumoconiosis Cohort Study (WCOPCS) working group, Research Center For Prevention and Therapy of Occupational Disease, West China-PUMC C.C. Chen Institute of Health, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
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5
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW There has been a rapid increase in silicosis cases, particularly related to artificial stone. The key to management is avoidance of silica exposure. Despite this, many develop progressive disease and there are no routinely recommended treatments. This review provides a summary of the literature pertaining to pharmacological therapies for silicosis and examines the plausibility of success of such treatments given the disease pathogenesis. RECENT FINDINGS In-vitro and in-vivo models demonstrate potential efficacy for drugs, which target inflammasomes, cytokines, effector cells, fibrosis, autophagy, and oxidation. SUMMARY There is some evidence for potential therapeutic targets in silicosis but limited translation into human studies. Treatment of silicosis likely requires a multimodal approach, and there is considerable cross-talk between pathways; agents that modulate both inflammation, fibrosis, autophagy, and ROS production are likely to be most efficacious.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayley Barnes
- Monash Centre for Occupational and Environmental Health, Monash University
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Alfred Health
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne
| | - Maggie Lam
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Michelle D Tate
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ryan Hoy
- Monash Centre for Occupational and Environmental Health, Monash University
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Alfred Health
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6
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Blanco-Pérez JJ, Fernández-González-Cuevas L, Cala-García J, Rosas I. The Polyhedric Reality of Silicosis. Arch Bronconeumol 2023; 59:705-706. [PMID: 37394354 DOI: 10.1016/j.arbres.2023.05.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Ivan Rosas
- Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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7
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Lombardi EMS, Mizutani RF, Terra-Filho M, Ubiratan de Paula S. Biomarkers related to silicosis and pulmonary function in individuals exposed to silica. Am J Ind Med 2023; 66:984-995. [PMID: 37615855 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.23528] [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: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The identification of markers that can facilitate the early diagnosis of silicosis has remained challenging. We evaluated the association of inflammatory markers with the presence of silicosis and lung function impairment in individuals exposed to silica. METHODS Individuals exposed and not exposed to silica were assessed by occupational history, clinical findings, lung function, chest imaging findings, and inflammatory markers. RESULTS Among 297 men evaluated, 51 were unexposed controls (G1), 149 were exposed to silica without silicosis (G2), and 97 were exposed to silica with silicosis (G3). Inflammatory marker levels were higher in G3 than in G2 and G1. Platelet/lymphocyte ratio (PLR), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), soluble tumor necrosis factor II (sTNFRII), and macrophage inflammatory protein-4 (MIP-4) were associated with silicosis, and LDH, neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR), sTNFRII, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (sVCAM-1), and fibrinogen were negatively associated with lung function. CONCLUSION Blood inflammatory markers are associated with silicosis and impaired lung function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa M S Lombardi
- Divisao de Pneumologia, Instituto do Coraçao (InCor), Hospital das Clinicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rafael F Mizutani
- Divisao de Pneumologia, Instituto do Coraçao (InCor), Hospital das Clinicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Santos Ubiratan de Paula
- Divisao de Pneumologia, Instituto do Coraçao (InCor), Hospital das Clinicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
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8
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Mouliou DS. C-Reactive Protein: Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, False Test Results and a Novel Diagnostic Algorithm for Clinicians. Diseases 2023; 11:132. [PMID: 37873776 PMCID: PMC10594506 DOI: 10.3390/diseases11040132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The current literature provides a body of evidence on C-Reactive Protein (CRP) and its potential role in inflammation. However, most pieces of evidence are sparse and controversial. This critical state-of-the-art monography provides all the crucial data on the potential biochemical properties of the protein, along with further evidence on its potential pathobiology, both for its pentameric and monomeric forms, including information for its ligands as well as the possible function of autoantibodies against the protein. Furthermore, the current evidence on its potential utility as a biomarker of various diseases is presented, of all cardiovascular, respiratory, hepatobiliary, gastrointestinal, pancreatic, renal, gynecological, andrological, dental, oral, otorhinolaryngological, ophthalmological, dermatological, musculoskeletal, neurological, mental, splenic, thyroid conditions, as well as infections, autoimmune-supposed conditions and neoplasms, including other possible factors that have been linked with elevated concentrations of that protein. Moreover, data on molecular diagnostics on CRP are discussed, and possible etiologies of false test results are highlighted. Additionally, this review evaluates all current pieces of evidence on CRP and systemic inflammation, and highlights future goals. Finally, a novel diagnostic algorithm to carefully assess the CRP level for a precise diagnosis of a medical condition is illustrated.
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9
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Wang Y, Cheng D, Li Z, Sun W, Zhou S, Peng L, Xiong H, Jia X, Li W, Han L, Liu Y, Ni C. IL33-mediated NPM1 promotes fibroblast-to-myofibroblast transition via ERK/AP-1 signaling in silica-induced pulmonary fibrosis. Toxicol Sci 2023; 195:71-86. [PMID: 37399107 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfad061] [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] [Indexed: 07/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Silicosis is a global occupational pulmonary disease due to the accumulation of silica dust in the lung. Lacking effective clinical drugs makes the treatment of this disease quite challenging in clinics largely because the pathogenic mechanisms remain obscure. Interleukin 33 (IL33), a pleiotropic cytokine, could promote wound healing and tissue repair via the receptor ST2. However, the mechanisms governing the involvement of IL33 in silicosis progression remain to be further explored. Here, we demonstrated that the IL33 levels in the lung sections were significantly overexpressed after bleomycin and silica treatment. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assay, knockdown, and reverse experiments were performed in lung fibroblasts to prove gene interaction following exogenous IL33 treatment or cocultured with silica-treated lung epithelial cells. Mechanistically, we illustrated that silica-stimulated lung epithelial cells secreted IL33 and further promoted the activation, proliferation, and migration of pulmonary fibroblasts by activating the ERK/AP-1/NPM1 signaling pathway in vitro. And more, treatment with NPM1 siRNA-loaded liposomes markedly protected mice from silica-induced pulmonary fibrosis in vivo. In conclusion, the involvement of NPM1 in the progression of silicosis is regulated by the IL33/ERK/AP-1 signaling axis, which is the potential therapeutic target candidate in developing novel antifibrotic strategies for pulmonary fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Wang
- Department of Occupational Medical and Environmental Health, Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Demin Cheng
- Department of Occupational Medical and Environmental Health, Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Ziwei Li
- Department of Occupational Medical and Environmental Health, Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Wenqing Sun
- Department of Occupational Medical and Environmental Health, Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Siyun Zhou
- Department of Occupational Medical and Environmental Health, Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Lan Peng
- Department of Occupational Medical and Environmental Health, Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Haojie Xiong
- Department of Occupational Medical and Environmental Health, Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Xinying Jia
- Department of Occupational Medical and Environmental Health, Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Occupational Medical and Environmental Health, Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
- Institute of Occupational Disease Prevention, Jiangsu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanjing 210028, China
| | - Lei Han
- Institute of Occupational Disease Prevention, Jiangsu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanjing 210028, China
| | - Yi Liu
- Department of Occupational Medical and Environmental Health, Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
- Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Chunhui Ni
- Department of Occupational Medical and Environmental Health, Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
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10
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Li Y, He S, Zhao Y, Jiang H, Lyu Z. Unraveling the mechanism of tetrandrine combined with Buyang Huanwu Decoction against silicosis using network pharmacology and molecular docking analyses. Medicine (Baltimore) 2023; 102:e34716. [PMID: 37565873 PMCID: PMC10419795 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000034716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Silicosis is an incurable chronic disease characterized by lung fibrosis and inflammation. The combination of tetrandrine and Buyang Huanwu Decoction (BYHWD) has a curative effect on silicosis. However, the mechanism of action and the key active constituent in BYHWD are still unclear. The present study employed network pharmacology and molecular docking to determine the mechanism of action and the key active components of BYHWD of Tetrandrine in combination with BYHWD for silicosis. The primary elements and targets of BYHWD were obtained from the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology and analysis platform. The targets associated with tetrandrine and silicosis were identified and extracted from the Comparative Toxicogenomics Database and GeneCards database. The potential targets for the treatment of silicosis using a combination of Tetrandrine and BYHWD were identified by considering the overlapping targets between compound drugs and silicosis. These targets were then utilized to construct protein-protein interaction networks, compound drug-ingredient-target networks, and perform enrichment analyses. The top 5 active ingredients present in the compound drug-ingredient-target network are tetrandrine, quercetin, luteolin, kaempferol, and beta-carotene. Similarly, the top 6 hub genes in the protein-protein interaction network are FGF2, MMP-9, MMP-1, IL-10, IL-17A, and IL-6. The molecular docking suggested that the active components may easily access the active pocket of the hub gene. The in-silico investigation suggested that quercetin might be the active component in BYHWD responsible for therapeutic effectiveness against silicosis. This study identified the active compound and potential molecular mechanism underlying the therapeutic effects of BYHWD in combination with tetrandrine for treating silicosis. Notably, we found that quercetin may serve as the key compound in BYHWD for the treatment of silicosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Li
- The School of Clinical Medicine, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Song He
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
| | - Youdan Zhao
- Department of Senior Cadres Ward, Zhongshan Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Hongzhan Jiang
- Nursing College, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
| | - Zhi Lyu
- The School of Clinical Medicine, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
- Department of Senior Cadres Ward, Zhongshan Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
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11
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Milovanović APS, Milovanović A, Srebro D, Pajic J, Stanković S, Petrović T. Serum Concentration of Prostaglandin E2 as a Diagnostic Biomarker in Patients With Silicosis: A Case-Control Study. J Occup Environ Med 2023; 65:546-552. [PMID: 36977359 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000002848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/30/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Silicosis is a prevalent incurable pneumoconiosis caused by inhalation of silica dust. Study aimed to investigate inflammatory, hematological, and biochemical parameters as additional biomarkers for diagnosing or monitoring silicosis. METHODS Research enrolled 14 workers with silicosis and 7 healthy controls (without exposure and silicosis). The serum level of prostaglandin E2, C-reactive protein, fibrinogen, biochemical, and hematological parameters were measured. The receiver operating characteristic curve was used to determine diagnostic sensitivity of each biomarker. RESULTS Patients with silicosis have a significantly higher level of prostaglandin E2, erythrocyte, hemoglobin, and hematocrit than patients without silicosis. Prostaglandin E2, hemoglobin, and the erythrocyte count are significant in separating the silicosis cases from healthy controls. CONCLUSIONS Prostaglandin E2 might be an adjuvant peripheral diagnostic biomarker for silicosis, while hematological parameters (erythrocytes, hemoglobin, and hematocrit) might be prognostic biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandar P S Milovanović
- From the University of Belgrade, Faculty of Medicine; Belgrade, Serbia (A.P.S.M., A.M., D.S., T.P.); Serbian Institute of Occupational Health "Dr Dragomir Karajovic," Belgrade, Serbia (A.P.S.M. J.P., T.P.); Clinic for Rehabilitation, University Clinical Center of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia (A.M.); University of Kragujevac, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Kragujevac, Serbia (S.S.); and Center for Medical Biochemistry, University Clinical Center of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia (S.S.)
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12
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Plasma Cytokine Profiling Reveals Differences between Silicotic Patients with Simple Silicosis and Those with Progressive Massive Fibrosis Caused by Engineered Stone. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24021541. [PMID: 36675056 PMCID: PMC9860830 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24021541] [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: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Engineered stone silicosis has become an occupational epidemic disease that progresses rapidly to progressive massive fibrosis with respiratory failure and death, and there is no effective treatment. Silica deposition in the lung triggers a series of inflammatory reactions with the participation of multiple cytokines and cellular mediators whose role in the development and progression of the disease is largely unknown. We hypothesized that differences in plasma cytokine levels exist between patients diagnosed with simple silicosis (SS) and patients diagnosed with progressive massive fibrosis (PMF). Plasma samples from 91 ES silicosis patients, diagnosed and classified by chest radiography and/or high-resolution computed tomography with SS (n = 53) and PMF (n = 38), were assayed by multiplex assays for levels of 34 cytokines. Additionally, a healthy volunteer control group (n = 22) was included. Plasma levels of a high number of cytokines were significantly higher in subjects with silicosis than in healthy control subjects. Moreover, the levels of IL-1RA, IL-8, IL-10, IL-16, IL-18, TNF-α, MIP-1α, G-CSF and VEGF were significantly elevated in PMF compared to SS patients. This study shows that plasma cytokine levels differ between healthy people and silicosis patients, and some of them are also significantly elevated in patients with PMF compared with patients with SS, which could indicate their involvement in the severity of the disease, be considered as biomarkers and could be explored as future therapeutic targets for the disease.
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13
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Macrophage-derived exosomal lncRNA MSTRG.91634.7 inhibits fibroblasts activation by targeting PINK1 in silica-induced lung fibrosis. Toxicol Lett 2023; 372:36-44. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2022.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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Căluțu IM, Smărăndescu RA, Rașcu A. Biomonitoring Exposure and Early Diagnosis in Silicosis: A Comprehensive Review of the Current Literature. Biomedicines 2022; 11:biomedicines11010100. [PMID: 36672608 PMCID: PMC9855648 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11010100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2022] [Revised: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Silicosis is a particular form of lung fibrosis attributable to occupational exposure to crystalline silica. The occupational exposure to crystalline silica also increases the risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cancer and lung infections, especially pulmonary tuberculosis. Silicosis is currently diagnosed in previously exposed workers by standard chest X-ray, when lesions are visible and irreversible. Therefore, it would be necessary to find specific and non-invasive markers that could detect silicosis in earlier stages, before the occurrence of X-ray opacities. In this narrative review, we present several diagnostic, monitoring and predictive biomarkers with high potential in the management of silicosis, such as: pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines (TNF (Tumour necrosis factor-α), IL-1 (Interleukin-1), IL-6, IL-10), CC16 (Clara cell 16, an indirect marker of epithelial cell destruction), KL-6 (Krebs von den Lungen 6, an indirect marker of alveolar epithelial damage), neopterin (indicator of cellular immunity) and MUC5B gene (Mucin 5B, a gel-forming mucin in mucus). Studies have shown that all the aforementioned markers have a high potential for early diagnosis or evaluation of progression in silicosis and represent promising alternatives to radiology. We consider that a multicentric study is needed to evaluate these biomarkers in correlation with occupational history, histopathological examination, imaging signs and pulmonary functions tests on large groups of subjects to better evaluate the accuracy of the presented biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iulia-Maria Căluțu
- Doctoral School, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Raluca-Andreea Smărăndescu
- Doctoral School, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
- Correspondence:
| | - Agripina Rașcu
- Clinical Department 5, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Colentina Clinical Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania
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15
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Ganesan N, Ronsmans S, Hoet P. Differential immunological effects of silica nanoparticles on peripheral blood mononuclear cells of silicosis patients and controls. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1025028. [PMID: 36311760 PMCID: PMC9606771 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1025028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Silicosis is a fibrotic disease caused by the inhalation of respirable silica particles, which are typically engulfed by alveolar macrophages and subsequently induce the release of inflammatory cytokines. Various animal experimental and human studies have focused on modeling silicosis, to assess the interactions of macrophages and other cell types with silica particles. There is still, however, limited knowledge on the differential response upon silica-exposure between silicosis patients and controls. We focused on studying the responsiveness of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) to silica nanoparticles (SiNPs) - Ludox and NM-200 - of silicosis patients and controls. The proliferative capacity of T- CD3+ and B- CD19+ cells, were evaluated via Carboxyfluorescein succinimidyl ester (CFSE) assay. The activation status of lymphocyte subsets and response to silica were also evaluated by comparing the extent of micro-granuloma or aggregate formation with the cytokine secretion profiles between both groups of individuals. The proliferative capacity of CD19+ cells was elevated in silicotic patients as opposed to controls. Subsets of regulatory T cells (CD4+ CD25+ and CD8+ CD25+) and immunoglobulins IgM and IgG were also significantly increased in patients. The number and the size of aggregates formed were higher with SiNPs stimulation in patients compared to controls. Multivariable analysis also elucidated the role of key cytokines like interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-6 and interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), which were upregulated in SiNP-stimulated PBMCs of patients compared to controls. Our ex vivo model thus has potential to provide insights into the immunological effects of silica particles in lymphocytes of silicosis patients and controls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nirosha Ganesan
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Unit of Environment & Health, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases and Thoracic Surgery (BREATHE), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Steven Ronsmans
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Unit of Environment & Health, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Clinic for Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Department of Respiratory Diseases, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Peter Hoet
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Unit of Environment & Health, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases and Thoracic Surgery (BREATHE), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- *Correspondence: Peter Hoet,
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16
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García-Núñez A, Jiménez-Gómez G, Hidalgo-Molina A, Córdoba-Doña JA, León-Jiménez A, Campos-Caro A. Inflammatory indices obtained from routine blood tests show an inflammatory state associated with disease progression in engineered stone silicosis patients. Sci Rep 2022; 12:8211. [PMID: 35581230 PMCID: PMC9114118 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-11926-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Patients with silicosis caused by occupational exposure to engineered stone (ES) present a rapid progression from simple silicosis (SS) to progressive massive fibrosis (PMF). Patient classification follows international rules based on radiology and high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT), but limited studies, if any, have explored biomarkers from routine clinical tests that can be used as predictors of disease status. Our objective was thus to investigate circulating biomarker levels and systemic inflammatory indices in ES silicosis patients whose exposure to ES dust ended several years ago. Ninety-one adult men, ex-workers in the manufacturing of ES, 53 diagnosed with SS and 38 with PMF, and 22 healthy male volunteers (HC) as controls not exposed to ES dust, were recruited. The following circulating levels of biomarkers like lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), angiotensin-converting-enzyme (ACE), protein C reactive (PCR), rheumatoid factor, alkaline phosphatase and fibrinogen were obtained from clinical reports after being measured from blood samples. As biochemical markers, only LDH (HC = 262 ± 48.1; SS = 315.4 ± 65.4; PMF = 337.6 ± 79.3 U/L), ACE (HC = 43.1 ± 18.4; SS = 78.2 ± 27.2; PMF = 86.1 ± 23.7 U/L) and fibrinogen (HC = 182.3 ± 49.1; SS = 212.2 ± 43.5; PMF = 256 ± 77.3 U/L) levels showed a significant sequential increase, not been observed for the rest of biomarkers, in the HC → SS → PMF direction. Moreover, several systemic inflammation indices neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), systemic inflammation response index (SIRI), systemic immune-inflammation index (SII), aggregate index of systemic inflammation (AISI) derived from whole blood cell counts showed significant differences between the HC, SS and PMF groups. All these biomarkers were analyzed using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, and the results provided moderately high sensitivity and specificity for discriminating between ES silicosis patient groups and healthy controls. Our study reveals that some inflammatory biomarkers, easily available from routine blood analysis, are present in ES silicosis patients even several years after cessation of exposure to ES silica dust and they could help to know the progression of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandro García-Núñez
- Biomedical Research and Innovation Institute of Cadiz (INiBICA), 11009, Cádiz, Spain.,Research Unit, Puerta del Mar University Hospital, 11009, Cádiz, Spain
| | - Gema Jiménez-Gómez
- Biomedical Research and Innovation Institute of Cadiz (INiBICA), 11009, Cádiz, Spain.,Research Unit, Puerta del Mar University Hospital, 11009, Cádiz, Spain
| | - Antonio Hidalgo-Molina
- Biomedical Research and Innovation Institute of Cadiz (INiBICA), 11009, Cádiz, Spain.,Pulmonology, Allergy and Thoracic Surgery Department, Puerta del Mar University Hospital, 11009, Cádiz, Spain
| | - Juan Antonio Córdoba-Doña
- Biomedical Research and Innovation Institute of Cadiz (INiBICA), 11009, Cádiz, Spain.,Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Jerez University Hospital, 11407, Jerez de la Frontera, Spain
| | - Antonio León-Jiménez
- Biomedical Research and Innovation Institute of Cadiz (INiBICA), 11009, Cádiz, Spain.,Pulmonology, Allergy and Thoracic Surgery Department, Puerta del Mar University Hospital, 11009, Cádiz, Spain
| | - Antonio Campos-Caro
- Biomedical Research and Innovation Institute of Cadiz (INiBICA), 11009, Cádiz, Spain. .,Research Unit, Puerta del Mar University Hospital, 11009, Cádiz, Spain. .,Genetics Area, Biomedicine, Biotechnology and Public Health Department, School of Marine and Environmental Sciences, University of Cadiz, 11510, Cádiz, Spain.
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17
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Zhao M, Wang L, Wang M, Bao Q, Qian R, Peng L, Fang A, Du W, Xie L, Zhang Z, Yao Y, Zhang B. Alveolar macrophage-derived progranulin mediated pro-inflammatory Il-6 expression via regulating Creb1 in silicosis model. Int Immunopharmacol 2022; 107:108705. [PMID: 35338960 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2022.108705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Revised: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Progranulin (PGRN) is a secreted factor involved in inflammatory diseases. However, the function of PGRN in silica-induced lung inflammation has not been elucidated. In this study, we demonstrated that PGRN in serum and lung tissues was markedly increased in silicosis mouse model. And immunohistochemistry results showed that PGRN was mainly expressed in alveolar macrophages, which was further confirmed in silica-treated alvelar macrophages cell line (MH-S) in vitro. PGRN promoted pro-inflammatory cytokines transcription such as interleukin (Il)-6, tumor necrosis factor-α (Tnf-α) and Il-1β in MH-S cells, and the increasing of Il-6 was most obvious. Knockdown of PGRN blocked the silica-induced elevation of intracellular Il-6 in MH-S cells. Furthermore, we also found that PGRN could increase the phosphorylation of Cyclic AMP-responsive element-binding protein 1 (Creb1), a transcriptional regulator of Il-6. Inhibition of p-Creb1 by the phosphorylation inhibitor of Creb1 (666-15) decreased PGRN-induced intracellular Il-6 production in MH-S cells. In conclusion, PGRN was highly increased in silicosis mouse model and upregulated inflammatory cytokines expression. These findings suggested that PGRN might be a key mediator in silica-induced inflammation and provided a new clue for the diagnosis and drug therapy of silicosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manyu Zhao
- Department of Environment and Occupational Health, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Liqun Wang
- Department of Hygienic Toxicology, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Mengzhu Wang
- Department of Environment and Occupational Health, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Qixue Bao
- Department of Environment and Occupational Health, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Rui Qian
- Department of Hygienic Toxicology, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Lijun Peng
- Department of Occupational Disease, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Research Center For Prevention and Therapy of Occupational Disease, West China-PUMC C.C. Chen Institute of Health, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Aiping Fang
- Department of Occupational Disease, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Research Center For Prevention and Therapy of Occupational Disease, West China-PUMC C.C. Chen Institute of Health, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Wen Du
- Department of Occupational Disease, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Research Center For Prevention and Therapy of Occupational Disease, West China-PUMC C.C. Chen Institute of Health, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Linshen Xie
- Department of Occupational Disease, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Research Center For Prevention and Therapy of Occupational Disease, West China-PUMC C.C. Chen Institute of Health, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Zunzhen Zhang
- Department of Environment and Occupational Health, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Yuqin Yao
- Department of Environment and Occupational Health, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China; Department of Hygienic Toxicology, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China; Department of Occupational Disease, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Research Center For Prevention and Therapy of Occupational Disease, West China-PUMC C.C. Chen Institute of Health, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
| | - Ben Zhang
- Department of Environment and Occupational Health, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China; Department of Occupational Disease, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Research Center For Prevention and Therapy of Occupational Disease, West China-PUMC C.C. Chen Institute of Health, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China.
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18
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Payton AD, Perryman AN, Hoffman JR, Avula V, Wells H, Robinette C, Alexis NE, Jaspers I, Rager JE, Rebuli ME. Cytokine signature clusters as a tool to compare changes associated with tobacco product use in upper and lower airway samples. Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol 2022; 322:L722-L736. [PMID: 35318855 PMCID: PMC9054348 DOI: 10.1152/ajplung.00299.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
This study compared baseline cytokine signatures in upper and lower airway samples and evaluated how groups of co-expressed cytokines change with tobacco product use. Matched nasal lavage fluid (NLF), nasal epithelial lining fluid (NELF), sputum, and circulating serum samples were collected from 14 non-smokers, 13 cigarette smokers, and 17 e-cigarette users. Samples were analyzed for 22 cytokines and cytokine signatures were compared across each sample, followed by identification of cytokine clusters with co-modulation patterns within each type of sample, which were subsequently evaluated for potential alterations associated with tobacco product use using eigenvector analyses. Findings included individual cytokine analyses that were carried out using crude, adjusted, and stratified models. Results were confirmed using a separate validation cohort of similar size and characteristics. Cytokine signatures in the respiratory tract were significantly correlated (NLF, NELF, and sputum) compared to randomly permutated signatures, while serum was not. Cytokines clusters identified in upper and lower airways samples were modified in association with tobacco product use, particularly e-cigarettes, showing significant changes in cytokines involved in host defense and chemotactic immune cell recruitment. Overall, analyses at the individual cytokine-level demonstrated less sensitivity and did not identify biologically meaningful differences between tobacco product use groups, highlighting the utility of cluster-based evaluations. NELF cytokine clusters and associated tobacco product disruptions were confirmed in an independent validation cohort. Hence, novel systems-level patterns uncovered changes induced by tobacco products, in particular, elevations in e-cigarette user nasal eigencytokines and identified that upper airway samples simulate cytokine patterns in lower airways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexis D Payton
- Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States.,The Institute for Environmental Health Solutions, School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Alexia N Perryman
- Curriculum in Toxicology and Environmental Medicine, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Jessica R Hoffman
- Curriculum for the Environment and Ecology, College of Arts and Sciences, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Vennela Avula
- Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States.,The Institute for Environmental Health Solutions, School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Heather Wells
- Center for Environmental Medicine, Asthma and Lung Biology, School of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Carole Robinette
- Center for Environmental Medicine, Asthma and Lung Biology, School of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Neil E Alexis
- Center for Environmental Medicine, Asthma and Lung Biology, School of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States.,Department of 12 Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Ilona Jaspers
- Curriculum in Toxicology and Environmental Medicine, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States.,Center for Environmental Medicine, Asthma and Lung Biology, School of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States.,Department of 12 Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States.,The Institute for Environmental Health Solutions, School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Julia E Rager
- Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States.,Curriculum in Toxicology and Environmental Medicine, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States.,Center for Environmental Medicine, Asthma and Lung Biology, School of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States.,The Institute for Environmental Health Solutions, School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Meghan E Rebuli
- Curriculum in Toxicology and Environmental Medicine, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States.,Center for Environmental Medicine, Asthma and Lung Biology, School of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States.,Department of 12 Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
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19
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Aloe CA, Leong TLT, Wimaleswaran H, Papagianis PC, McQualter JL, McDonald CF, Khor YH, Hoy RF, Ingle A, Bansal V, Goh NSL, Bozinovski S. Excess iron promotes emergence of foamy macrophages that overexpress ferritin in the lungs of silicosis patients. Respirology 2022; 27:427-436. [PMID: 35176813 PMCID: PMC9303595 DOI: 10.1111/resp.14230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Background and objective Inhalation of high concentrations of respirable crystalline silica (RCS) can lead to silicosis. RCS contains varying levels of iron, which can cause oxidative stress and stimulate ferritin production. This study evaluated iron‐related and inflammatory markers in control and silicosis patients. Methods A cohort of stone benchtop industry workers (n = 18) were radiologically classified by disease severity into simple or complicated silicosis. Peripheral blood and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) were collected to measure iron, ferritin, C‐reactive protein, serum amyloid A and serum silicon levels. Ferritin subunit expression in BAL and transbronchial biopsies was analysed by reverse transcription quantitative PCR. Lipid accumulation in BAL macrophages was assessed by Oil Red O staining. Results Serum iron levels were significantly elevated in patients with silicosis, with a strong positive association with serum ferritin levels. In contrast, markers of systemic inflammation were not increased in silicosis patients. Serum silicon levels were significantly elevated in complicated disease. BAL macrophages from silicosis patients were morphologically consistent with lipid‐laden foamy macrophages. Ferritin light chain (FTL) mRNA expression in BAL macrophages was also significantly elevated in simple silicosis patients and correlated with systemic ferritin. Conclusion Our findings suggest that elevated iron levels during the early phases of silicosis increase FTL expression in BAL macrophages, which drives elevated BAL and serum ferritin levels. Excess iron and ferritin were also associated with the emergence of a foamy BAL macrophage phenotype. Ferritin may represent an early disease marker for silicosis, where increased levels are independent of inflammation and may contribute to fibrotic lung remodelling. Silicosis is an aggressive and incurable lung disease. In this study, serum iron levels were increased in silicosis patients, and these levels were strongly associated with serum ferritin levels. Lipid‐laden bronchoalveolar lavage macrophages were identified as a major source of ferritin, whereas markers of inflammation were not increased. See relatedEditorial
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tracy Li-Tsein Leong
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia.,Institute for Breathing and Sleep, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Hari Wimaleswaran
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia.,Institute for Breathing and Sleep, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | | | | | - Christine Faye McDonald
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia.,Institute for Breathing and Sleep, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Yet Hong Khor
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia.,Institute for Breathing and Sleep, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Respiratory Research@Alfred, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ryan Francis Hoy
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Respiratory Medicine, Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Aviraj Ingle
- Sir Ian Potter NanoBioSensing Facility, NanoBiotechnology Research Laboratory, School of Science, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Vipul Bansal
- Sir Ian Potter NanoBioSensing Facility, NanoBiotechnology Research Laboratory, School of Science, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Nicole Soo Leng Goh
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia.,Institute for Breathing and Sleep, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Steven Bozinovski
- School of Health & Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
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