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Chia ZJ, Cao YN, Little PJ, Kamato D. Transforming growth factor-β receptors: versatile mechanisms of ligand activation. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2024:10.1038/s41401-024-01235-6. [PMID: 38351317 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-024-01235-6] [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: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/28/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling is initiated by activation of transmembrane TGF-β receptors (TGFBR), which deploys Smad2/3 transcription factors to control cellular responses. Failure or dysregulation in the TGF-β signaling pathways leads to pathological conditions. TGF-β signaling is regulated at different levels along the pathways and begins with the liberation of TGF-β ligand from its latent form. The mechanisms of TGFBR activation display selectivity to cell types, agonists, and TGF-β isoforms, enabling precise control of TGF-β signals. In addition, the cell surface compartments used to release active TGF-β are surprisingly vibrant, using thrombospondins, integrins, matrix metalloproteinases and reactive oxygen species. The scope of TGFBR activation is further unfolded with the discovery of TGFBR activation initiated by other signaling pathways. The unique combination of mechanisms works in series to trigger TGFBR activation, which can be explored as therapeutic targets. This comprehensive review provides valuable insights into the diverse mechanisms underpinning TGFBR activation, shedding light on potential avenues for therapeutic exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng-Jie Chia
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, 4102, Australia
- Discovery Biology, School of Environment and Science, Griffith University, Brisbane, QLD, 4111, Australia
- Griffith Institute for Drug Discovery, Griffith University, Brisbane, QLD, 4111, Australia
| | - Ying-Nan Cao
- Department of Pharmacy, Guangzhou Xinhua University, Guangzhou, 510520, China
| | - Peter J Little
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, 4102, Australia
- Department of Pharmacy, Guangzhou Xinhua University, Guangzhou, 510520, China
| | - Danielle Kamato
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, 4102, Australia.
- Discovery Biology, School of Environment and Science, Griffith University, Brisbane, QLD, 4111, Australia.
- Griffith Institute for Drug Discovery, Griffith University, Brisbane, QLD, 4111, Australia.
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2
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Fox SC, Waskiewicz AJ. Transforming growth factor beta signaling and craniofacial development: modeling human diseases in zebrafish. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1338070. [PMID: 38385025 PMCID: PMC10879340 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1338070] [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: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Humans and other jawed vertebrates rely heavily on their craniofacial skeleton for eating, breathing, and communicating. As such, it is vital that the elements of the craniofacial skeleton develop properly during embryogenesis to ensure a high quality of life and evolutionary fitness. Indeed, craniofacial abnormalities, including cleft palate and craniosynostosis, represent some of the most common congenital abnormalities in newborns. Like many other organ systems, the development of the craniofacial skeleton is complex, relying on specification and migration of the neural crest, patterning of the pharyngeal arches, and morphogenesis of each skeletal element into its final form. These processes must be carefully coordinated and integrated. One way this is achieved is through the spatial and temporal deployment of cell signaling pathways. Recent studies conducted using the zebrafish model underscore the importance of the Transforming Growth Factor Beta (TGF-β) and Bone Morphogenetic Protein (BMP) pathways in craniofacial development. Although both pathways contain similar components, each pathway results in unique outcomes on a cellular level. In this review, we will cover studies conducted using zebrafish that show the necessity of these pathways in each stage of craniofacial development, starting with the induction of the neural crest, and ending with the morphogenesis of craniofacial elements. We will also cover human skeletal and craniofacial diseases and malformations caused by mutations in the components of these pathways (e.g., cleft palate, craniosynostosis, etc.) and the potential utility of zebrafish in studying the etiology of these diseases. We will also briefly cover the utility of the zebrafish model in joint development and biology and discuss the role of TGF-β/BMP signaling in these processes and the diseases that result from aberrancies in these pathways, including osteoarthritis and multiple synostoses syndrome. Overall, this review will demonstrate the critical roles of TGF-β/BMP signaling in craniofacial development and show the utility of the zebrafish model in development and disease.
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3
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Ahuja S, Zaheer S. Multifaceted TGF-β signaling, a master regulator: From bench-to-bedside, intricacies, and complexities. Cell Biol Int 2024; 48:87-127. [PMID: 37859532 DOI: 10.1002/cbin.12097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Physiological embryogenesis and adult tissue homeostasis are regulated by transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), an evolutionarily conserved family of secreted polypeptide factors, acting in an autocrine and paracrine manner. The role of TGF-β in inflammation, fibrosis, and cancer is complex and sometimes even contradictory, exhibiting either inhibitory or promoting effects depending on the stage of the disease. Under pathological conditions, especially fibrosis and cancer, overexpressed TGF-β causes extracellular matrix deposition, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, cancer-associated fibroblast formation, and/or angiogenesis. In this review article, we have tried to dive deep into the mechanism of action of TGF-β in inflammation, fibrosis, and carcinogenesis. As TGF-β and its downstream signaling mechanism are implicated in fibrosis and carcinogenesis blocking this signaling mechanism appears to be a promising avenue. However, targeting TGF-β carries substantial risk as this pathway is implicated in multiple homeostatic processes and is also known to have tumor-suppressor functions. There is a need for careful dosing of TGF-β drugs for therapeutic use and patient selection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sana Ahuja
- Department of Pathology, Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi, India
| | - Sufian Zaheer
- Department of Pathology, Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi, India
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4
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Kim K, Kim YS, Jang JW, Lee GM. Enhancing the production of recombinant human TGF-β1 through an understanding of TGF-β1 synthesis, signaling, and endocytosis in CHO cells. Biotechnol J 2024; 19:e2300269. [PMID: 37985244 DOI: 10.1002/biot.202300269] [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: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
To enhance the production of recombinant human transforming growth factor-beta1 (rhTGF-β1) in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells, rhTGF-β1 was first characterized for endocytosis, signaling pathway, and overall maturation process. The mature rhTGF-β1 used for clinical application was internalized into CHO cells and inhibited the growth of CHO cells in a dose-dependent manner. However, mature rhTGF-β1 was mostly produced in the form of latent rhTGF-β1 in cultures of recombinant CHO (rCHO) cells producing rhTGF-β1 (CHO-rhTGF-β1). The concentration of active mature rhTGF-β1 in the culture supernatant of CHO-rhTGF-β1 cells was not high enough to compromise yield. In addition, a significant amount of unprocessed precursors was produced by CHO-rhTGF-β1 cells. Overexpression of PACEsol, a soluble form of furin, in CHO-rhTGF-β1 cells was effective for the proteolytic cleavage of unprocessed precursors. The highest mature rhTGF-β1 concentration (6.4 μg mL-1 ) was obtained with the PACEsol-expressing clone, which was approximately 45% higher than that of the parental clone (P < 0.01). Thus, a comprehensive understanding of the intrinsic properties of rhTGF-β1 with respect to the overall maturation process, signaling pathway, and endocytosis is essential for effectively enhancing the production of mature rhTGF-β1 in CHO cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyungsoo Kim
- Department of Biological Sciences, KAIST, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Sik Kim
- Institute of Biomaterial and Medical Engineering, Cellumed, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ju Woong Jang
- Institute of Biomaterial and Medical Engineering, Cellumed, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Gyun Min Lee
- Department of Biological Sciences, KAIST, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
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5
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Carter EP, Yoneten KK, Gavara N, Tyler EJ, Gauthier V, Murray ER, ten Dijke P, Cameron AJ, Pearce O, Grose RP. Opposing roles for ADAMTS2 and ADAMTS14 in myofibroblast differentiation and function. J Pathol 2024; 262:90-104. [PMID: 37929635 PMCID: PMC10953099 DOI: 10.1002/path.6214] [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: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Crosstalk between cancer and stellate cells is pivotal in pancreatic cancer, resulting in differentiation of stellate cells into myofibroblasts that drives tumour progression. To assess cooperative mechanisms in a 3D context, we generated chimeric spheroids using human and mouse cancer and stellate cells. Species-specific deconvolution of bulk-RNA sequencing data revealed cell type-specific transcriptomes underpinning invasion. This dataset highlighted stellate-specific expression of transcripts encoding the collagen-processing enzymes ADAMTS2 and ADAMTS14. Strikingly, loss of ADAMTS2 reduced, while loss of ADAMTS14 promoted, myofibroblast differentiation and invasion independently of their primary role in collagen-processing. Functional and proteomic analysis demonstrated that these two enzymes regulate myofibroblast differentiation through opposing roles in the regulation of transforming growth factor β availability, acting on the protease-specific substrates, Serpin E2 and fibulin 2, for ADAMTS2 and ADAMTS14, respectively. Showcasing a broader complexity for these enzymes, we uncovered a novel regulatory axis governing malignant behaviour of the pancreatic cancer stroma. © 2023 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward P Carter
- Centre for Tumour Biology, Barts Cancer InstituteQueen Mary University of LondonLondonUK
- Department of Life SciencesUniversity of BathBathUK
- Centre for Therapeutic Innovation, Faculty of ScienceUniversity of BathBathUK
| | - Kubra K Yoneten
- Centre for Tumour Biology, Barts Cancer InstituteQueen Mary University of LondonLondonUK
| | - Nuria Gavara
- Unitat de Biofísica i Bioenginyeria, Facultat de Medicina i Ciències de la SalutUniversitat de BarcelonaBarcelonaSpain
| | - Eleanor J Tyler
- Centre for Tumour Microenvironment, Barts Cancer InstituteQueen Mary University of LondonLondonUK
| | - Valentine Gauthier
- Centre for Tumour Microenvironment, Barts Cancer InstituteQueen Mary University of LondonLondonUK
| | - Elizabeth R Murray
- Centre for Tumour Biology, Barts Cancer InstituteQueen Mary University of LondonLondonUK
| | - Peter ten Dijke
- Oncode Institute and Department of Cell and Chemical BiologyLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
| | - Angus J Cameron
- Centre for Tumour Biology, Barts Cancer InstituteQueen Mary University of LondonLondonUK
| | - Oliver Pearce
- Centre for Tumour Microenvironment, Barts Cancer InstituteQueen Mary University of LondonLondonUK
| | - Richard P Grose
- Centre for Tumour Biology, Barts Cancer InstituteQueen Mary University of LondonLondonUK
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6
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IMATSUJI SAYAKA, UJIE YUKIKO, ODAKE HIROYUKI, IMOTO MASAYA, ITOH SUSUMU, TASHIRO ETSU. Cisplatin-induced activation of TGF-β signaling contributes to drug resistance. Oncol Res 2023; 32:139-150. [PMID: 38188677 PMCID: PMC10767239 DOI: 10.32604/or.2023.030190] [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: 03/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Growing evidence suggests an association between epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), a hallmark of tumor malignancy, and chemoresistance to a number of anti-cancer drugs. However, the mechanism of EMT induction in the process of acquiring anti-cancer drug resistance remains unclear. To address this issue, we obtained a number of cisplatin-resistant clones from LoVo cells and found that almost all of them lost cell-cell contacts. In these clones, the epithelial marker E-cadherin was downregulated, whereas the mesenchymal marker N-cadherin was upregulated. Moreover, the expression of EMT-related transcription factors, including Slug, was elevated. On the other hand, the upregulation of other mesenchymal marker Vimentin was weak, suggesting that the mesenchymal-like phenotypic changes occurred in these cisplatin-resistant clones. These mesenchymal-like features of cisplatin-resistant clones were partially reversed to parental epithelial-like features by treatment with transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) receptor kinase inhibitors, indicating that TGF-β signaling is involved in cisplatin-induced the mesenchymal-like phenotypic changes. Moreover, cisplatin was observed to enhance the secretion of TGF-β into the culture media without influencing TGF-β gene transcription. These results suggest that cisplatin may induce the mesenchymal-like phenotypic changes by enhancing TGF-β secretion, ultimately resulting in drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- SAYAKA IMATSUJI
- Department of Biosciences and Informatics, Faculty of Science and Technology, Keio University, Yokohama, 223-8522, Japan
| | - YUKIKO UJIE
- Department of Biosciences and Informatics, Faculty of Science and Technology, Keio University, Yokohama, 223-8522, Japan
| | - HIROYUKI ODAKE
- Department of Biosciences and Informatics, Faculty of Science and Technology, Keio University, Yokohama, 223-8522, Japan
| | - MASAYA IMOTO
- Department of Biosciences and Informatics, Faculty of Science and Technology, Keio University, Yokohama, 223-8522, Japan
- Department of Neurology, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, 113-8421, Japan
| | - SUSUMU ITOH
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Showa Pharmaceutical University, Tokyo, 194-8543, Japan
| | - ETSU TASHIRO
- Department of Biosciences and Informatics, Faculty of Science and Technology, Keio University, Yokohama, 223-8522, Japan
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Showa Pharmaceutical University, Tokyo, 194-8543, Japan
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7
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Oezel L, Wohltmann M, Gondorf N, Wille J, Güven I, Windolf J, Thelen S, Jaekel C, Grotheer V. Dupuytren's Disease Is Mediated by Insufficient TGF-β1 Release and Degradation. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15097. [PMID: 37894778 PMCID: PMC10606262 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242015097] [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: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Dupuytren's disease (DD) is a fibroproliferative disorder affecting the palmar fascia, causing functional restrictions of the hand and thereby limiting patients' daily lives. The disturbed and excessive myofibroblastogenesis, causing DD, is mainly induced by transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1. But, the extent to which impaired TGF-β1 release or TGF-β signal degradation is involved in pathologically altered myofibroblastogenesis in DD has been barely examined. Therefore, the complex in which TGF-β1 is secreted in the extracellular matrix to elicit its biological activity, and proteins such as plasmin, integrins, and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), which are involved in the TGF-β1 activation, were herein analyzed in DD-fibroblasts (DD-FBs). Additionally, TGF-β signal degradation via caveolin-1 was examined with 5-fluoruracil (5-FU) in detail. Gene expression analysis was performed via Western blot, PCR, and immunofluorescence analyses. As a surrogate parameter for disturbed myofibroblastogenesis, 𝛼-smooth-muscle-actin (𝛼-SMA) expression was evaluated. It was demonstrated that latency-associated peptide (LAP)-TGF-β and latent TGF-β-binding protein (LTBP)-1 involved in TGF-β-complex building were significantly upregulated in DD. Plasmin a serinprotease responsible for the TGF-β release was significantly downregulated. The application of exogenous plasmin was able to inhibit disturbed myofibroblastogenesis, as measured via 𝛼-SMA expression. Furthermore, a reduced TGF-β1 degradation was also involved in the pathological phenotype of DD, because caveolin-1 expression was significantly downregulated, and if rescued, myofibroblastogenesis was also inhibited. Therefore, our study demonstrates that a deficient release and degradation of TGF-β1 are important players in the pathological phenotype of DD and should be addressed in future research studies to improve DD therapy or other related fibrotic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Carina Jaekel
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich-Heine-University, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; (L.O.); (M.W.); (N.G.); (J.W.); (I.G.); (J.W.); (S.T.); (V.G.)
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8
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Kudryashova TV, Zaitsev S, Jiang L, Buckley BJ, McGuckin JP, Goncharov D, Zhyvylo I, Lin D, Newcomb G, Piper B, Bogamuwa S, Saiyed A, Teos L, Ranson M, Wolters PJ, Kelso MJ, Poncz M, DeLisser HM, Cines DB, Goncharova EA, Farkas L, Stepanova V. PAI-1 Deficiency Drives Pulmonary Vascular Smooth Muscle Remodeling and Pulmonary Hypertension. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.09.21.558893. [PMID: 37790328 PMCID: PMC10542168 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.21.558893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a progressive and potentially a rapidly fatal disease characterized by vasoconstriction and remodeling of small pulmonary arteries (PA) leading to increased pulmonary vascular resistance and right heart failure. Central to the remodeling process is a switch of the smooth muscle cells in small PAs (PASMC) to a proliferative, apoptosis-resistant phenotype. There is reason to suspect that the plasminogen activator system may play an important role in the remodeling program in PAH based on its roles in vascular post-injury restenosis, fibrosis, angiogenesis and tumorigenesis. Plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) is the primary physiological inhibitor of the plasminogen activators - urokinase-type and tissue-type (uPA and tPA, respectively). Immunohisto- chemical and immunoblot analyses revealed that PAI-1 was deficient in smooth muscle areas of small remodeled PAs and early-passage PASMC from subjects with PAH compared to non-PAH controls. PAI1-/- male and female mice developed spontaneous pulmonary vascular remodeling and pulmonary hypertension (PH) as evidenced by significant increase in PA medial thickness, systolic right ventricular pressure, and right ventricular hypertrophy. Lastly, the uPA inhibitors upamostat (WX-671) and amiloride analog BB2-30F down-regulated mTORC1 and SMAD3, restored PAI-1 levels, reduced proliferation, and induced apoptosis in human PAH PASMC. We examined the effect of inhibition of uPA catalytic activity by BB2-30F on the development of SU5416/Hypoxia (SuHx)-induced PH in mice. Vehicletreated SuHx-exposed mice had up-regulated mTORC1 in small PAs, developed pulmonary vascular remodeling and PH, as evidenced by significant increase of PA MT, sRVP, RV hypertrophy, and a significant decrease in the pulmonary artery acceleration time/pulmonary ejection time (PAAT/PET) ratio compared to age- and sex-matched normoxia controls, whereas BB2-30F-treated group was protected from all these pathological changes. Taken together, our data strongly suggest that PAI-1 down- regulation in PASMC from human PAH lungs promotes PASMC hyper-proliferation, remodeling, and spontaneous PH due to unopposed uPA activation. Further studies are needed to determine the potential benefits of targeting the PAI-1/uPA imbalance to attenuate the progression and/or reverse pulmonary vascular remodeling and PH.
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Mohassel P, Rooney J, Zou Y, Johnson K, Norato G, Hearn H, Nalls MA, Yun P, Ogata T, Silverstein S, Sleboda DA, Roberts TJ, Rifkin DB, Bönnemann CG. Collagen type VI regulates TGFβ bioavailability in skeletal muscle. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.06.22.545964. [PMID: 38586035 PMCID: PMC10996771 DOI: 10.1101/2023.06.22.545964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Collagen VI-related disorders (COL6-RDs) are a group of rare muscular dystrophies caused by pathogenic variants in collagen VI genes (COL6A1, COL6A2, and COL6A3). Collagen type VI is a heterotrimeric, microfibrillar component of the muscle extracellular matrix (ECM), predominantly secreted by resident fibroadipogenic precursor cells in skeletal muscle. The absence or mislocalizatoion of collagen VI in the ECM underlies the non-cell autonomous dysfunction and dystrophic changes in skeletal muscle with an as of yet elusive direct mechanistic link between the ECM and myofiber dysfunction. Here, we conduct a comprehensive natural history and outcome study in a novel mouse model of COL6-RDs (Col6a2-/- mice) using standardized (Treat-NMD) functional, histological, and physiologic parameter. Notably, we identify a conspicuous dysregulation of the TGFβ pathway early in the disease process and propose that the collagen VI deficient matrix is not capable of regulating the dynamic TGFβ bioavailability at baseline and also in response to muscle injury. Thus, we propose a new mechanism for pathogenesis of the disease that links the ECM regulation of TGFβ with downstream skeletal muscle abnormalities, paving the way for developing and validating therapeutics that target this pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Payam Mohassel
- National Institutes of Health, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Neuromuscular and Neurogenetic Disorders of Childhood Section, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jachinta Rooney
- National Institutes of Health, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Neuromuscular and Neurogenetic Disorders of Childhood Section, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Yaqun Zou
- National Institutes of Health, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Neuromuscular and Neurogenetic Disorders of Childhood Section, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Kory Johnson
- Bioinformatics Section, Intramural Information Technology & Bioinformatics Program, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Gina Norato
- Clinical Trials Unit, National Institutes of Health, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Hailey Hearn
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Matthew A Nalls
- National Institutes of Health, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Neuromuscular and Neurogenetic Disorders of Childhood Section, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Pomi Yun
- National Institutes of Health, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Neuromuscular and Neurogenetic Disorders of Childhood Section, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Tracy Ogata
- National Institutes of Health, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Neuromuscular and Neurogenetic Disorders of Childhood Section, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Sarah Silverstein
- National Institutes of Health, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Neuromuscular and Neurogenetic Disorders of Childhood Section, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - David A Sleboda
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Thomas J Roberts
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Daniel B Rifkin
- Department of Cell Biology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Carsten G Bönnemann
- National Institutes of Health, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Neuromuscular and Neurogenetic Disorders of Childhood Section, Bethesda, MD, USA
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10
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Kumar AA, Vine KL, Ranson M. Recent Advances in Targeting the Urokinase Plasminogen Activator with Nanotherapeutics. Mol Pharm 2023. [PMID: 37119285 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.3c00055] [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: 05/01/2023]
Abstract
The aberrant proteolytic landscape of the tumor microenvironment is a key contributor of cancer progression. Overexpression of urokinase plasminogen activator (uPA) and/or its associated cell-surface receptor (uPAR) in tumor versus normal tissue is significantly associated with worse clinicopathological features and poorer patient survival across multiple cancer types. This is linked to mechanisms that facilitate tumor cell invasion and migration, via direct and downstream activation of various proteolytic processes that degrade the extracellular matrix─ultimately leading to metastasis. Targeting uPA has thus long been considered an attractive anticancer strategy. However, poor bioavailability of several uPA-selective small-molecule inhibitors has limited early clinical progress. Nanodelivery systems have emerged as an exciting method to enhance the pharmacokinetic (PK) profile of existing chemotherapeutics, allowing increased circulation time, improved bioavailability, and targeted delivery to tumor tissue. Combining uPA inhibitors with nanoparticle-based delivery systems thus offers a remarkable opportunity to overcome existing PK challenges associated with conventional uPA inhibitors, while leveraging potent candidates into novel targeted nanotherapeutics for an improved anticancer response in uPA positive tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashna A Kumar
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
| | - Kara L Vine
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
| | - Marie Ranson
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
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11
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Ali S, Rehman MU, Yatoo AM, Arafah A, Khan A, Rashid S, Majid S, Ali A, Ali MN. TGF-β signaling pathway: Therapeutic targeting and potential for anti-cancer immunity. Eur J Pharmacol 2023; 947:175678. [PMID: 36990262 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2023.175678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ) is a pleiotropic secretory cytokine exhibiting both cancer-inhibitory and promoting properties. It transmits its signals via Suppressor of Mother against Decapentaplegic (SMAD) and non-SMAD pathways and regulates cell proliferation, differentiation, invasion, migration, and apoptosis. In non-cancer and early-stage cancer cells, TGFβ signaling suppresses cancer progression via inducing apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, or anti-proliferation, and promoting cell differentiation. On the other hand, TGFβ may also act as an oncogene in advanced stages of tumors, wherein it develops immune-suppressive tumor microenvironments and induces the proliferation of cancer cells, invasion, angiogenesis, tumorigenesis, and metastasis. Higher TGFβ expression leads to the instigation and development of cancer. Therefore, suppressing TGFβ signals may present a potential treatment option for inhibiting tumorigenesis and metastasis. Different inhibitory molecules, including ligand traps, anti-sense oligo-nucleotides, small molecule receptor-kinase inhibitors, small molecule inhibitors, and vaccines, have been developed and clinically trialed for blocking the TGFβ signaling pathway. These molecules are not pro-oncogenic response-specific but block all signaling effects induced by TGFβ. Nonetheless, targeting the activation of TGFβ signaling with maximized specificity and minimized toxicity can enhance the efficacy of therapeutic approaches against this signaling pathway. The molecules that are used to target TGFβ are non-cytotoxic to cancer cells but designed to curtail the over-activation of invasion and metastasis driving TGFβ signaling in stromal and cancer cells. Here, we discussed the critical role of TGFβ in tumorigenesis, and metastasis, as well as the outcome and the promising achievement of TGFβ inhibitory molecules in the treatment of cancer.
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12
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Pedersen RS, Nissen NI, Jensen C, Thorlacius-Ussing J, Manon-Jensen T, Olesen ML, Langholm LL, Diab HMH, Jorgensen LN, Hansen CP, Chen IM, Johansen JS, Karsdal MA, Willumsen N. Plasma Kallikrein-Activated TGF-β Is Prognostic for Poor Overall Survival in Patients with Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma and Associates with Increased Fibrogenesis. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12091315. [PMID: 36139154 PMCID: PMC9496221 DOI: 10.3390/biom12091315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Revised: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a hard-to-treat cancer due to the collagen-rich (fibrotic) and immune-suppressed microenvironment. A major driver of this phenomenon is transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β). TGF-β is produced in an inactive complex with a latency-associated protein (LAP) that can be cleaved by plasma kallikrein (PLK), hereby releasing active TGF-β. The aim of this study was to evaluate LAP cleaved by PLK as a non-invasive biomarker for PDAC and tumor fibrosis. An ELISA was developed for the quantification of PLK-cleaved LAP-TGF-β in the serum of 34 patients with PDAC (stage 1−4) and 20 healthy individuals. Biomarker levels were correlated with overall survival (OS) and compared to serum type III collagen (PRO-C3) and type VI collagen (PRO-C6) pro-peptides. PLK-cleaved LAP-TGF-β was higher in patients with PDAC compared to healthy individuals (p < 0.0001). High levels (>median) of PLK-cleaved LAP-TGF-β were associated with poor OS in patients with PDAC independent of age and stage (HR 2.57, 95% CI: 1.22−5.44, p = 0.0135). High levels of PLK-cleaved LAP-TGF-β were associated with high PRO-C3 and PRO-C6, indicating a relationship between the PLK-cleaved LAP-TGF-β fragment, TGF-β activity, and tumor fibrosis. If these preliminary results are validated, circulating PLK-cleaved LAP-TGF-β may be a biomarker for future clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rasmus S. Pedersen
- Nordic Bioscience, 2730 Herlev, Denmark
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
- Correspondence:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Hadi M. H. Diab
- Digestive Disease Center, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, University of Copenhagen, 2400 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lars N. Jorgensen
- Digestive Disease Center, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, University of Copenhagen, 2400 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Carsten P. Hansen
- Department of Surgery, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Inna M. Chen
- Department of Oncology, Herlev and Gentofte Hospital, University of Copenhagen, 2730 Herlev, Denmark
| | - Julia S. Johansen
- Department of Oncology, Herlev and Gentofte Hospital, University of Copenhagen, 2730 Herlev, Denmark
- Department of Medicine, Herlev and Gentofte Hospital, University of Copenhagen, 2730 Herlev, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
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13
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Into the Tissues: Extracellular Matrix and Its Artificial Substitutes: Cell Signalling Mechanisms. Cells 2022; 11:cells11050914. [PMID: 35269536 PMCID: PMC8909573 DOI: 10.3390/cells11050914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Revised: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The existence of orderly structures, such as tissues and organs is made possible by cell adhesion, i.e., the process by which cells attach to neighbouring cells and a supporting substance in the form of the extracellular matrix. The extracellular matrix is a three-dimensional structure composed of collagens, elastin, and various proteoglycans and glycoproteins. It is a storehouse for multiple signalling factors. Cells are informed of their correct connection to the matrix via receptors. Tissue disruption often prevents the natural reconstitution of the matrix. The use of appropriate implants is then required. This review is a compilation of crucial information on the structural and functional features of the extracellular matrix and the complex mechanisms of cell–cell connectivity. The possibilities of regenerating damaged tissues using an artificial matrix substitute are described, detailing the host response to the implant. An important issue is the surface properties of such an implant and the possibilities of their modification.
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14
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Wang HL, Wang L, Zhao CY, Lan HY. Role of TGF-Beta Signaling in Beta Cell Proliferation and Function in Diabetes. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12030373. [PMID: 35327565 PMCID: PMC8945211 DOI: 10.3390/biom12030373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Beta (β) cell dysfunction or loss is the common pathological feature in all types of diabetes mellitus (diabetes). Resolving the underlying mechanism may facilitate the treatment of diabetes by preserving the β cell population and function. It is known that TGF-β signaling plays diverse roles in β cell development, function, proliferation, apoptosis, and dedifferentiation. Inhibition of TGF-β signaling expands β cell lineage in the development. However, deletion of Tgfbr1 has no influence on insulin demand-induced but abolishes inflammation-induced β cell proliferation. Among canonical TGF-β signaling, Smad3 but not Smad2 is the predominant repressor of β cell proliferation in response to systemic insulin demand. Deletion of Smad3 simultaneously improves β cell function, apoptosis, and systemic insulin resistance with the consequence of eliminated overt diabetes in diabetic mouse models, revealing Smad3 as a key mediator and ideal therapeutic target for type-2 diabetes. However, Smad7 shows controversial effects on β cell proliferation and glucose homeostasis in animal studies. On the other hand, overexpression of Tgfb1 prevents β cells from autoimmune destruction without influence on β cell function. All these findings reveal the diverse regulatory roles of TGF-β signaling in β cell biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Lian Wang
- Research Center for Integrative Medicine, The Affiliated Traditional Medicine Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China; (H.-L.W.); (L.W.)
- School of Clinical Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Li Wang
- Research Center for Integrative Medicine, The Affiliated Traditional Medicine Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China; (H.-L.W.); (L.W.)
| | - Chang-Ying Zhao
- Department of Endocrinology, The Affiliated Traditional Medicine Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China;
| | - Hui-Yao Lan
- Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China
- Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital Joint Research Laboratory on Immunological and Genetic Kidney Diseases, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +852-37-636-061
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15
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Tagirasa R, Yoo E. Role of Serine Proteases at the Tumor-Stroma Interface. Front Immunol 2022; 13:832418. [PMID: 35222418 PMCID: PMC8873516 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.832418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
During tumor development, invasion and metastasis, the intimate interaction between tumor and stroma shapes the tumor microenvironment and dictates the fate of tumor cells. Stromal cells can also influence anti-tumor immunity and response to immunotherapy. Understanding the molecular mechanisms that govern this complex and dynamic interplay, thus is important for cancer diagnosis and therapy. Proteolytic enzymes that are expressed and secreted by both cancer and stromal cells play important roles in modulating tumor-stromal interaction. Among, several serine proteases such as fibroblast activation protein, urokinase-type plasminogen activator, kallikrein-related peptidases, and granzymes have attracted great attention owing to their elevated expression and dysregulated activity in the tumor microenvironment. This review highlights the role of serine proteases that are mainly derived from stromal cells in tumor progression and associated theranostic applications.
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16
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Weng D, Han T, Dong J, Zhang M, Mi Y, He Y, Li X, Zhu X. Angiogenin and MMP-2 as potential biomarkers in the differential diagnosis of gestational trophoblastic diseases. Medicine (Baltimore) 2022; 101:e28768. [PMID: 35119039 PMCID: PMC8812619 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000028768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gestational trophoblastic diseases (GTDs) are characterized by vascular abnormalities of the trophoblast, but their pathogenesis is unknown. Angiogenin (ANG) and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2, which are molecules implicated in the angiogenic process, may play some role in this process. MATERIAL AND METHODS We determined ANG and MMP-2 in the placental tissues of 26 patients who had a benign mole (BM), 12 patients with gestational trophoblast neoplasia (GTN) (1 invasive hydatidiform mole, 10 choriocarcinomas, and 1 placental-site trophoblastic tumor), and 28 normal chorionic villi (NCV) subjects using immunohistochemistry staining. We obtained the serum samples from 20 patients with GTDs and 20 early pregnant women and evaluated them by the enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. RESULTS ANG expression in GTN (66.7%) and BM (100%) samples were both significantly higher (strong/intermediate staining) than in NCV (60.7%) samples (P < .001). Similarly, the immunoreactivities of MMP-2 in the GTN (66.7%) and BM (80.8%) samples were significantly elevated compared to that of the NCV (57.1%) samples (P < .001). The levels of ANG and MMP-2 in the maternal serum of the GTN group were both significantly higher than those of the control group (P < .001). ANG and MMP-2 expressions were associated with gestation age, clinical stage, and FIGO stage. A positive correlation between ANG and MMP-2 expression was observed (rs = 0.725; P < .01). CONCLUSION ANG and MMP-2 levels were significantly elevated in the placental tissues and maternal serum from patients with GTDs. Further studies with more patients may clarify the vascular abnormalities in GTDs and determine potential biomarkers in the differential diagnosis of GTDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Weng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hainan Hospital of PLA General Hospital, Sanya, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shaanxi Provincial Maternal and Child Health's Hospital, Xi’an, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Tao Han
- Department of Orthopedics, Hainan Hospital of PLA General Hospital, Sanya, China
| | - Jin Dong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shaanxi Provincial Maternal and Child Health's Hospital, Xi’an, China
| | - Ming Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shaanxi Provincial Maternal and Child Health's Hospital, Xi’an, China
| | - Yang Mi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shaanxi Provincial Maternal and Child Health's Hospital, Xi’an, China
| | - Yiping He
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern Women's and Children's Hospital, Xi’an, China
| | - Xiaojuan Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern Women's and Children's Hospital, Xi’an, China
| | - Xiaoming Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hainan Hospital of PLA General Hospital, Sanya, China
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17
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Identification and characterization of genetic variants of TGFB1 in patients with congenital heart disease. Meta Gene 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mgene.2021.100987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
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18
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Su H, Ren W, Zhang D. Research progress on exosomal proteins as diagnostic markers of gastric cancer (review article). Clin Exp Med 2022; 23:203-218. [DOI: 10.1007/s10238-022-00793-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
AbstractGastric cancer (GC) is one of the most common types of tumors and the most common cause of cancer mortality worldwide. The diagnosis of GC is critical to its prevention and treatment. Available tumor markers are the crucial step for GC diagnosis. Recent studies have shown that proteins in exosomes are potential diagnostic and prognostic markers for GC. Exosomes, secreted by cells, are cup-shaped with a diameter of 30–150 nm under the electron microscope. They are also surrounded by lipid bilayers and are widely found in various body fluids. Exosomes contain proteins, lipids and nucleic acid. The examination of exosomal proteins has the advantages of quickness, easy sampling, and low pain and cost, as compared with the routine inspection method of GC, which may lead to marked developments in GC diagnosis. This article summarized the exosomal proteins with a diagnostic and prognostic potential in GC, as well as exosomal proteins involved in GC progression.
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19
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Rasmussen LJH, Petersen JEV, Eugen-Olsen J. Soluble Urokinase Plasminogen Activator Receptor (suPAR) as a Biomarker of Systemic Chronic Inflammation. Front Immunol 2021; 12:780641. [PMID: 34925360 PMCID: PMC8674945 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.780641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Systemic chronic inflammation (SCI) is persistent, health-damaging, low-grade inflammation that plays a major role in immunosenescence and in development and progression of many diseases. But currently, there are no recognized standard biomarkers to assess SCI levels alone, and SCI is typically measured by combining biomarkers of acute inflammation and infection, e.g., CRP, IL-6, and TNFα. In this review, we highlight 10 properties and characteristics that are shared by the blood protein soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (suPAR) and SCI, supporting the argument that suPAR is a biomarker of SCI: (1) Expression and release of suPAR is upregulated by immune activation; (2) uPAR and suPAR exert pro-inflammatory functions; (3) suPAR is associated with the amount of circulating immune cells; (4) Blood suPAR levels correlate with the levels of established inflammatory biomarkers; (5) suPAR is minimally affected by acute changes and short-term influences, in contrast to many currently used markers of systemic inflammation; (6) Like SCI, suPAR is non-specifically associated with multiple diseases; (7) suPAR and SCI both predict morbidity and mortality; (8) suPAR and SCI share the same risk factors; (9) suPAR is associated with risk factors and outcomes of inflammation above and beyond other inflammatory biomarkers; (10) The suPAR level can be reduced by anti-inflammatory interventions and treatment of disease. Assessing SCI has the potential to inform risk for morbidity and mortality. Blood suPAR is a newer biomarker which may, in fact, be a biomarker of SCI since it is stably associated with inflammation and immune activation; shares the same risk factors as many age-related diseases; is both elevated by and predicts age-related diseases. There is strong evidence that suPAR is a prognostic marker of adverse events, morbidity, and mortality. It is associated with immune activity and prognosis across diverse conditions, including kidney disease, cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes, and inflammatory disorders. Thus, we think it likely represents a common underlying disease-process shared by many diseases; that is, SCI. We review the supporting literature and propose a research agenda that can help test the hypothesis that suPAR indexes SCI, with the potential of becoming the new gold standard for measuring SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Line Jee Hartmann Rasmussen
- Department of Clinical Research, Copenhagen University Hospital Amager and Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Jens Emil Vang Petersen
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Jesper Eugen-Olsen
- Department of Clinical Research, Copenhagen University Hospital Amager and Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark
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20
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Belitškin D, Pant SM, Munne P, Suleymanova I, Belitškina K, Hongisto HA, Englund J, Raatikainen T, Klezovitch O, Vasioukhin V, Li S, Wu Q, Monni O, Kuure S, Laakkonen P, Pouwels J, Tervonen TA, Klefström J. Hepsin regulates TGFβ signaling via fibronectin proteolysis. EMBO Rep 2021; 22:e52532. [PMID: 34515392 PMCID: PMC8567232 DOI: 10.15252/embr.202152532] [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: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor‐beta (TGFβ) is a multifunctional cytokine with a well‐established role in mammary gland development and both oncogenic and tumor‐suppressive functions. The extracellular matrix (ECM) indirectly regulates TGFβ activity by acting as a storage compartment of latent‐TGFβ, but how TGFβ is released from the ECM via proteolytic mechanisms remains largely unknown. In this study, we demonstrate that hepsin, a type II transmembrane protease overexpressed in 70% of breast tumors, promotes canonical TGFβ signaling through the release of latent‐TGFβ from the ECM storage compartment. Mammary glands in hepsin CRISPR knockout mice showed reduced TGFβ signaling and increased epithelial branching, accompanied by increased levels of fibronectin and latent‐TGFβ1, while overexpression of hepsin in mammary tumors increased TGFβ signaling. Cell‐free and cell‐based experiments showed that hepsin is capable of direct proteolytic cleavage of fibronectin but not latent‐TGFβ and, importantly, that the ability of hepsin to activate TGFβ signaling is dependent on fibronectin. Altogether, this study demonstrates a role for hepsin as a regulator of the TGFβ pathway in the mammary gland via a novel mechanism involving proteolytic downmodulation of fibronectin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denis Belitškin
- Research Programs Unit/Translational Cancer Medicine Research Program and Medicum, Faculty of Medicine, Biomedicum Helsinki, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Shishir M Pant
- Research Programs Unit/Translational Cancer Medicine Research Program and Medicum, Faculty of Medicine, Biomedicum Helsinki, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Pauliina Munne
- Research Programs Unit/Translational Cancer Medicine Research Program and Medicum, Faculty of Medicine, Biomedicum Helsinki, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Ilida Suleymanova
- Research Programs Unit/Translational Cancer Medicine Research Program and Medicum, Faculty of Medicine, Biomedicum Helsinki, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Kati Belitškina
- Pathology Department, North Estonia Medical Centre, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Hanna-Ala Hongisto
- Research Programs Unit/Translational Cancer Medicine Research Program and Medicum, Faculty of Medicine, Biomedicum Helsinki, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Johanna Englund
- Research Programs Unit/Translational Cancer Medicine Research Program and Medicum, Faculty of Medicine, Biomedicum Helsinki, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Tiina Raatikainen
- Research Programs Unit/Translational Cancer Medicine Research Program and Medicum, Faculty of Medicine, Biomedicum Helsinki, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Olga Klezovitch
- Division of Human Biology, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Valeri Vasioukhin
- Division of Human Biology, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Shuo Li
- Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Qingyu Wu
- Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Outi Monni
- Research Programs Unit/Applied Tumor Genomics Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, Biomedicum Helsinki, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Satu Kuure
- GM-Unit, Laboratory Animal Centre, Helsinki Institute of Life Science (HiLIFE), University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Pirjo Laakkonen
- Laboratory Animal Center, Helsinki Institute of Life Science (HiLIFE), University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Jeroen Pouwels
- Research Programs Unit/Translational Cancer Medicine Research Program and Medicum, Faculty of Medicine, Biomedicum Helsinki, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Topi A Tervonen
- Research Programs Unit/Translational Cancer Medicine Research Program and Medicum, Faculty of Medicine, Biomedicum Helsinki, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Juha Klefström
- Research Programs Unit/Translational Cancer Medicine Research Program and Medicum, Faculty of Medicine, Biomedicum Helsinki, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Finnish Cancer Institute & FICAN South, Helsinki University Hospital (HUS), Helsinki, Finland
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21
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Biological Mechanisms and Therapeutic Opportunities in Mammographic Density and Breast Cancer Risk. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13215391. [PMID: 34771552 PMCID: PMC8582527 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13215391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Revised: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Mammographic density is an important risk factor for breast cancer; women with extremely dense breasts have a four to six fold increased risk of breast cancer compared to women with mostly fatty breasts, when matched with age and body mass index. High mammographic density is characterised by high proportions of stroma, containing fibroblasts, collagen and immune cells that suggest a pro-tumour inflammatory microenvironment. However, the biological mechanisms that drive increased mammographic density and the associated increased risk of breast cancer are not yet understood. Inflammatory factors such as monocyte chemotactic protein 1, peroxidase enzymes, transforming growth factor beta, and tumour necrosis factor alpha have been implicated in breast development as well as breast cancer risk, and also influence functions of stromal fibroblasts. Here, the current knowledge and understanding of the underlying biological mechanisms that lead to high mammographic density and the associated increased risk of breast cancer are reviewed, with particular consideration to potential immune factors that may contribute to this process.
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22
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Liu Q, Chen G, Moore J, Guix I, Placantonokis D, Barcellos-Hoff MH. Exploiting Canonical TGFβ Signaling in Cancer Treatment. Mol Cancer Ther 2021; 21:16-24. [PMID: 34670783 PMCID: PMC8742762 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-20-0891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Revised: 05/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) is a pleiotropic cytokine that plays critical roles to define cancer cell phenotypes, construct the tumor microenvironment, and suppress anti-tumor immune responses. As such, TGFβ is a lynchpin for integrating cancer cell intrinsic pathways and communication among host cells in the tumor and beyond that together affect responses to genotoxic, targeted, and immune therapy. Despite decades of preclinical and clinical studies, evidence of clinical benefit from targeting TGFβ in cancer remains elusive. Here, we review the mechanisms by which TGFβ acts to oppose successful cancer therapy, the reported prognostic and predictive value of TGFβ biomarkers, and the potential impact of inhibiting TGFβ in precision oncology. Paradoxically, the diverse mechanisms by which TGFβ impedes therapeutic response are a principal barrier to implementing TGFβ inhibitors because it is unclear which TGFβ mechanism is functional in which patient. Companion diagnostic tools and specific biomarkers of TGFβ targeted biology will be the key to exploiting TGFβ biology for patient benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Liu
- Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Institute for Biomedical Engineering
| | - Genwen Chen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University
| | - Jade Moore
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California, San Francicsco
| | - Ines Guix
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California, San Francicsco
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23
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Trombetta-Lima M, Rosa-Fernandes L, Angeli CB, Moretti IF, Franco YM, Mousessian AS, Wakamatsu A, Lerario AM, Oba-Shinjo SM, Pasqualucci CA, Marie SKN, Palmisano G. Extracellular Matrix Proteome Remodeling in Human Glioblastoma and Medulloblastoma. J Proteome Res 2021; 20:4693-4707. [PMID: 34533964 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jproteome.1c00251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Medulloblastomas (MBs) and glioblastomas (GBMs) are high-incidence central nervous system tumors. Different origin sites and changes in the tissue microenvironment have been associated with the onset and progression. Here, we describe differences between the extracellular matrix (ECM) signatures of these tumors. We compared the proteomic profiles of MB and GBM decellularized tumor samples between each other and their normal decellularized brain site counterparts. Our analysis revealed that 19, 28, and 11 ECM proteins were differentially expressed in MBs, GBMs, and in both MBs and GBMs, respectively. Next, we validated key findings by using a protein tissue array with 53 MB and 55 GBM cases and evaluated the clinical relevance of the identified differentially expressed proteins through their analysis on publicly available datasets, 763 MB samples from the GSE50161 and GSE85217 studies, and 115 GBM samples from RNAseq-TCGA. We report a shift toward a denser fibrillary ECM as well as a clear alteration in the glycoprotein signature, which influences the tumor pathophysiology. MS data have been submitted to the PRIDE repository, project accession: PXD023350.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Trombetta-Lima
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Laboratory (LIM 15), Neurology Department, Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo 01246-903, Brazil.,Faculty of Science and Engineering, Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy (GRIP), University of Groningen, Groningen 9713 AV, The Netherlands
| | - Livia Rosa-Fernandes
- Parasitology Department, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas (ICBUSP), Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo 05508-000, Brazil
| | - Claudia B Angeli
- Parasitology Department, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas (ICBUSP), Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo 05508-000, Brazil
| | - Isabele F Moretti
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Laboratory (LIM 15), Neurology Department, Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo 01246-903, Brazil
| | - Yollanda M Franco
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Laboratory (LIM 15), Neurology Department, Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo 01246-903, Brazil
| | - Adaliana S Mousessian
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Laboratory (LIM 15), Neurology Department, Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo 01246-903, Brazil
| | - Alda Wakamatsu
- Hepatic Pathology Laboratory (LIM 14), Pathology Department, Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Sao Paulo 01246-903, Brazil
| | - Antonio M Lerario
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology, and Diabetes, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Sueli M Oba-Shinjo
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Laboratory (LIM 15), Neurology Department, Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo 01246-903, Brazil
| | - Carlos A Pasqualucci
- Brazilian Aging Brain Study Group, Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Sao Paulo 01246-903, Brazil
| | - Suely K N Marie
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Laboratory (LIM 15), Neurology Department, Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo 01246-903, Brazil
| | - Giuseppe Palmisano
- Parasitology Department, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas (ICBUSP), Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo 05508-000, Brazil
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24
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Gonias SL. Plasminogen activator receptor assemblies in cell signaling, innate immunity, and inflammation. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2021; 321:C721-C734. [PMID: 34406905 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00269.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Tissue-type plasminogen activator (tPA) and urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA) are serine proteases and major activators of fibrinolysis in mammalian systems. Because fibrinolysis is an essential component of the response to tissue injury, diverse cells, including cells that participate in the response to injury, have evolved receptor systems to detect tPA and uPA and initiate appropriate cell-signaling responses. Formation of functional receptor systems for the plasminogen activators requires assembly of diverse plasma membrane proteins, including but not limited to: the urokinase receptor (uPAR); integrins; N-formyl peptide receptor-2 (FPR2), receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs), the N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor (NMDA-R), and low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein-1 (LRP1). The cell-signaling responses elicited by tPA and uPA impact diverse aspects of cell physiology. This review describes rapidly evolving knowledge regarding the structure and function of plasminogen activator receptor assemblies. How these receptor assemblies regulate innate immunity and inflammation is then considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven L Gonias
- Department of Pathology, University of California, San Diego, California
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25
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Furlan AG, Spanou CES, Godwin ARF, Wohl AP, Zimmermann LMA, Imhof T, Koch M, Baldock C, Sengle G. A new MMP-mediated prodomain cleavage mechanism to activate bone morphogenetic proteins from the extracellular matrix. FASEB J 2021; 35:e21353. [PMID: 33629769 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202001264r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Revised: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Since their discovery as pluripotent cytokines extractable from bone matrix, it has been speculated how bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) become released and activated from the extracellular matrix (ECM). In contrast to TGF-βs, most investigated BMPs are secreted as bioactive prodomain (PD)-growth factor (GF) complexes (CPLXs). Recently, we demonstrated that PD-dependent targeting of BMP-7 CPLXs to the extracellular fibrillin microfibril (FMF) components fibrillin-1 and -2 represents a BMP sequestration mechanism by rendering the GF latent. Understanding how BMPs become activated from ECM scaffolds such as FMF is crucial to elucidate pathomechanisms characterized by aberrant BMP activation and ECM destruction. Here, we describe a new MMP-dependent BMP-7 activation mechanism from ECM-targeted pools via specific PD degradation. Using Edman sequencing and mutagenesis, we identified a new and conserved MMP-13 cleavage site within the BMP-7 PD. A degradation screen with different BMP family PDs and representative MMP family members suggested utilization of the identified site in a general MMP-driven BMP activation mechanism. Furthermore, sandwich ELISA and solid phase cleavage studies in combination with bioactivity assays, single particle TEM, and in silico molecular docking experiments provided evidence that PD cleavage by MMP-13 leads to BMP-7 CPLX disintegration and bioactive GF release.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariane G Furlan
- Center for Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Chara E S Spanou
- Center for Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Alan R F Godwin
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.,Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Alexander P Wohl
- Center for Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Laura-Marie A Zimmermann
- Center for Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Thomas Imhof
- Institute for Dental Research and Oral Musculoskeletal Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Manuel Koch
- Institute for Dental Research and Oral Musculoskeletal Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Clair Baldock
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.,Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Gerhard Sengle
- Center for Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Cologne Center for Musculoskeletal Biomechanics (CCMB), Cologne, Germany
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Treviño-Villarreal JH, Reynolds JS, Langston PK, Thompson A, Mitchell JR, Franco RA. Down-Regulation of a Profibrotic Transforming Growth Factor-β1/Cellular Communication Network Factor 2/Matrix Metalloprotease 9 Axis by Triamcinolone Improves Idiopathic Subglottic Stenosis. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2021; 191:1412-1430. [PMID: 34111429 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2021.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Revised: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 05/07/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Idiopathic subglottic stenosis (iSGS) is a progressive fibrotic disease characterized by life-threatening airway narrowing. Although the molecular underpinnings are unknown, previous reports showing that subglottic serial intralesional steroid injections (SILSIs) improve clinical outcomes suggest a steroid-sensitive pathway in iSGS. Herein, a prospective study was conducted to determine the changes in profibrotic markers during SILSI to identify steroid-sensitive profibrotic drivers. Seven newly diagnosed patients with iSGS were recruited for SILSI. Subglottic biopsies before and after SILSI treatments were evaluated for histologic and molecular markers by confocal microscopy and RT-qPCR. At baseline, iSGS subglottises contained abundant vimentin-positive/α-smooth muscle actin-negative fibroblasts, intermingled with a matrix of fibronectin and types I and VI collagen. Transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 was up-regulated primarily in glandular epithelium. Cellular communication network factor 2 (CCN2) was mainly up-regulated in stromal fibroblasts surrounding TGF-β1-positive glandular structures. SILSI improved iSGS by reducing fibroblast infiltration and increasing matrix remodeling. Mechanistically, SILSI counteracted the effects of TGF-β1 by inducing matrix metalloprotease 9 (MMP9) expression while repressing CCN2 expression, without affecting TGFβ1 levels. Treatment of primary iSGS-derived fibroblasts with TGF-β1 recapitulated aspects of the disease in vivo, demonstrating that the induction in CCN2 and repression of MMP9 are caused by changes in histone acetylation induced by TGF-β1. Triamcinolone counteracted the coregulation of these genes by impairing SMAD2/3 binding to promoter regions, and not through histone acetylation. In conclusion, this study shows that SILSI counteracts a dysregulated TGF-β1/CCN2/MMP9 axis involved in iSGS development.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Justin S Reynolds
- Department of Molecular Metabolism, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - P Kent Langston
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School and Evergrande Center for Immunologic Diseases, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Andrew Thompson
- Dana Farber Cancer Institute/Harvard Medical School Rodent Histopathology Core Facility, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - James R Mitchell
- Department of Molecular Metabolism, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Ramon A Franco
- Department of Molecular Metabolism, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts; Division of Laryngology, Department of Otolaryngology, Mass Eye and Ear and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.
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Cherifi C, Monteagudo S, Lories RJ. Promising targets for therapy of osteoarthritis: a review on the Wnt and TGF-β signalling pathways. Ther Adv Musculoskelet Dis 2021; 13:1759720X211006959. [PMID: 33948125 PMCID: PMC8053758 DOI: 10.1177/1759720x211006959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common chronic joint disorder worldwide, with a high personal burden for the patients and an important socio-economic impact. Current therapies are largely limited to pain management and rehabilitation and exercise strategies. For advanced cases, joint replacement surgery may be the only option. Hence, there is an enormous need for the development of effective and safe disease-modifying anti-OA drugs. A strong focus in OA research has been on the identification and role of molecular signalling pathways that contribute to the balance between anabolism and catabolism in the articular cartilage. In this context, most insights have been gained in understanding the roles of the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) and the Wingless-type (Wnt) signalling cascades. The emerging picture demonstrates a high degree of complexity with context-dependent events. TGF-β appears to protect cartilage under healthy conditions, but shifts in its receptor use and subsequent downstream signalling may be deleterious in aged individuals or in damaged cartilage. Likewise, low levels of Wnt activity appear important to sustain chondrocyte viability but excessive activation is associated with progressive joint damage. Emerging clinical data suggest some potential for the use of sprifermin, a recombinant forms of fibroblast growth factor 18, a distant TGF-β superfamily member, and for lorecivivint, a Wnt pathway modulator.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chahrazad Cherifi
- Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Silvia Monteagudo
- Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Rik J Lories
- Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, Box 813 O&N, Herestraat 49, Leuven 3000, Belgium; Division of Rheumatology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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Liu S, Ren J, Ten Dijke P. Targeting TGFβ signal transduction for cancer therapy. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2021; 6:8. [PMID: 33414388 PMCID: PMC7791126 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-020-00436-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 166] [Impact Index Per Article: 55.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2020] [Revised: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ) family members are structurally and functionally related cytokines that have diverse effects on the regulation of cell fate during embryonic development and in the maintenance of adult tissue homeostasis. Dysregulation of TGFβ family signaling can lead to a plethora of developmental disorders and diseases, including cancer, immune dysfunction, and fibrosis. In this review, we focus on TGFβ, a well-characterized family member that has a dichotomous role in cancer progression, acting in early stages as a tumor suppressor and in late stages as a tumor promoter. The functions of TGFβ are not limited to the regulation of proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and metastasis of cancer cells. Recent reports have related TGFβ to effects on cells that are present in the tumor microenvironment through the stimulation of extracellular matrix deposition, promotion of angiogenesis, and suppression of the anti-tumor immune reaction. The pro-oncogenic roles of TGFβ have attracted considerable attention because their intervention provides a therapeutic approach for cancer patients. However, the critical function of TGFβ in maintaining tissue homeostasis makes targeting TGFβ a challenge. Here, we review the pleiotropic functions of TGFβ in cancer initiation and progression, summarize the recent clinical advancements regarding TGFβ signaling interventions for cancer treatment, and discuss the remaining challenges and opportunities related to targeting this pathway. We provide a perspective on synergistic therapies that combine anti-TGFβ therapy with cytotoxic chemotherapy, targeted therapy, radiotherapy, or immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sijia Liu
- Oncode Institute and Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Einthovenweg 20, 2300 RC, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Jiang Ren
- Oncode Institute and Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Einthovenweg 20, 2300 RC, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Peter Ten Dijke
- Oncode Institute and Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Einthovenweg 20, 2300 RC, Leiden, The Netherlands.
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29
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Bottino LZMF, Rodrigues-Junior DM, Farias ISD, Branco LM, Iyer NG, de Albuquerque GE, Vettore AL, Bortoluci KR. Extracellular vesicles derived from head and neck squamous cells carcinoma inhibit NLRP3 inflammasomes. CURRENT RESEARCH IN IMMUNOLOGY 2021; 2:175-183. [PMID: 35492395 PMCID: PMC9040134 DOI: 10.1016/j.crimmu.2021.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Revised: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The content of tumor-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) can regulate the tumor microenvironment and functionally acts in favor of cancer aggressiveness. To better elucidate the role of EVs in the interplay between immune system and tumor microenvironment, the purpose of this study was to analyze the effect of head and neck squamous cells carcinoma (HNSCC)-derived EVs on the modulation of inflammasomes - mediators of pyroptosis and secretion of inflammatory factors by macrophages. Our results showed that macrophages treated with the Vesicular Secretome Fraction (VSF) isolated from patient-derived HNSCC presented a reduction in the secretion of mature IL-1β and caspase-1 without affecting cell viability. An analysis of the protein content of HNSCC-derived VSF by antibody array revealed that some of the most expressed proteins share a correlation with Transforming Growth Factor-beta (TGF-β) activity. Since TGF-β is related to the inhibition of the NF-kB-related pathways, including those required for the priming phase of the inflammasomes, we sought to evalute the interference of the VSF in the induction of inflammasome components. In fact, HNSCC-derived VSF inhibited the induction of pro-IL-1β and pro-caspase-1 proteins and NLRP3 gene expression during the priming phase of inflammasome activation. Thus, our findings contribute to a better understanding of how tumor-derived EVs modulate inflammatory response by demonstrating their role in inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasomes. Vesicular Secretome Fraction (VSF) from HNSCC inhibits macrophage responses to the NLRP3 inflammasomes agonists. HNSCC-derived VSF is enriched with proteins correlated with the Transforming Growth Factor-b pathway. HNSCC-derived VSF affects the priming phase of inflammasome activation.
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Aujla PK, Kassiri Z. Diverse origins and activation of fibroblasts in cardiac fibrosis. Cell Signal 2020; 78:109869. [PMID: 33278559 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2020.109869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Cardiac fibroblasts (cFBs) have emerged as a heterogenous cell population. Fibroblasts are considered the main cell source for synthesis of the extracellular matrix (ECM) and as such a dysregulation in cFB function, activity, or viability can lead to disrupted ECM structure or fibrosis. Fibrosis can be initiated in response to different injuries and stimuli, and can be reparative (beneficial) or reactive (damaging). FBs need to be activated to myofibroblasts (MyoFBs) which have augmented capacity in synthesizing ECM proteins, causing fibrosis. In addition to the resident FBs in the myocardium, a number of other cells (pericytes, fibrocytes, mesenchymal, and hematopoietic cells) can transform into MyoFBs, further driving the fibrotic response. Multiple molecules including hormones, cytokines, and growth factors stimulate this process leading to generation of activated MyoFBs. Contribution of different cell types to cFBs and MyoFBs can result in an exponential increase in the number of MyoFBs and an accelerated pro-fibrotic response. Given the diversity of the cell sources, and the array of interconnected signalling pathways that lead to formation of MyoFBs and subsequently fibrosis, identifying a single target to limit the fibrotic response in the myocardium has been challenging. This review article will delineate the importance and relevance of fibroblast heterogeneity in mediating fibrosis in different models of heart failure and will highlight important signalling pathways implicated in myofibroblast activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Preetinder K Aujla
- Department of Physiology, Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Zamaneh Kassiri
- Department of Physiology, Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
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31
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Qin S, Jiang J, Lu Y, Nice EC, Huang C, Zhang J, He W. Emerging role of tumor cell plasticity in modifying therapeutic response. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2020; 5:228. [PMID: 33028808 PMCID: PMC7541492 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-020-00313-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2020] [Revised: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 08/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Resistance to cancer therapy is a major barrier to cancer management. Conventional views have proposed that acquisition of resistance may result from genetic mutations. However, accumulating evidence implicates a key role of non-mutational resistance mechanisms underlying drug tolerance, the latter of which is the focus that will be discussed here. Such non-mutational processes are largely driven by tumor cell plasticity, which renders tumor cells insusceptible to the drug-targeted pathway, thereby facilitating the tumor cell survival and growth. The concept of tumor cell plasticity highlights the significance of re-activation of developmental programs that are closely correlated with epithelial-mesenchymal transition, acquisition properties of cancer stem cells, and trans-differentiation potential during drug exposure. From observations in various cancers, this concept provides an opportunity for investigating the nature of anticancer drug resistance. Over the years, our understanding of the emerging role of phenotype switching in modifying therapeutic response has considerably increased. This expanded knowledge of tumor cell plasticity contributes to developing novel therapeutic strategies or combination therapy regimens using available anticancer drugs, which are likely to improve patient outcomes in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyuan Qin
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, and West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, 610041, Chengdu, People's Republic of China
| | - Jingwen Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, and West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, 610041, Chengdu, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi Lu
- School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology Shenzhen, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518055, People's Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Cell Microenvironment and Disease Research, Shenzhen, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Edouard C Nice
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Canhua Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, and West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, 610041, Chengdu, People's Republic of China.
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1166 Liutai Road, 611137, Chengdu, People's Republic of China.
| | - Jian Zhang
- School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology Shenzhen, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518055, People's Republic of China.
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Cell Microenvironment and Disease Research, Shenzhen, Guangdong, People's Republic of China.
| | - 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, People's Republic of China.
- Chongqing Key Laboratory for Disease Proteomics, Chongqing, People's Republic of China.
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Inflammation-induced colon cancer in uPA-deficient mice is associated with a deregulated expression of Notch signaling pathway components. Mol Cell Biochem 2019; 464:181-191. [PMID: 31758376 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-019-03659-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2019] [Accepted: 11/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Notch is an evolutionarily conserved signaling pathway with an important role in development and cell fate determination. Deregulation of Notch signaling has been associated with several pathological conditions, including cancer. Acting as an oncogene in some types of cancers and as a tumor suppressor in other, Notch effects seem to be highly context-dependent in solid tumors. In the present study, we aimed to investigate gene expression levels of Notch pathway constituents, including ligands, receptors, and target genes, during the early stages of inflammation-associated intestinal carcinogenesis. To achieve so, we used our recently developed mouse model, in which colon cancer arises in the absence of urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA) due to colitis induced by dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) treatment. Among the cell surface components, ligands Jag1/Jag2 and receptors Notch1/Notch2 were found to be significantly upregulated in the uPA-deficient protumorigenic inflammatory microenvironment. Moreover, several intracellular Notch modulators, i.e. Hes1, Hey1, and Klf4, were also shown to be deregulated with inflammation, yet irrespective of uPA status. Sox9 transcription factor, however, was significantly downregulated in the uPA-deficient/DSS-treated mice that developed colon adenomas as compared to the wild-type/DSS-treated group with no neoplasia identified. The latter finding supports a tumor suppressive role of Sox9 in intestinal carcinogenesis. Our results point towards an early activation of Notch signaling pathway at the receptor-ligand level in inflammation-associated colon neoplasmatogenesis developed in the absence of uPA. Interestingly, such activation may not be accompanied by deregulation of downstream Notch-target genes, possibly due to the effects of other inter-related signaling pathways.
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SILAC-Based Quantification of TGFBR2-Regulated Protein Expression in Extracellular Vesicles of Microsatellite Unstable Colorectal Cancers. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20174162. [PMID: 31454892 PMCID: PMC6747473 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20174162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2019] [Revised: 08/21/2019] [Accepted: 08/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Microsatellite unstable (MSI) colorectal cancers (CRCs) are characterized by mutational inactivation of Transforming Growth Factor Beta Receptor Type 2 (TGFBR2). TGFBR2-deficient CRCs present altered target gene and protein expression. Such cellular alterations modulate the content of CRC-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs). EVs function as couriers of proteins, nucleic acids, and lipids in intercellular communication. At a qualitative level, we have previously shown that TGFBR2 deficiency causes overall alterations in the EV protein content. To deepen the basic understanding of altered protein dynamics, this work aimed to determine TGFBR2-dependent EV protein signatures in a quantitative manner. Using a stable isotope labeling with amino acids in cell culture (SILAC) approach for mass spectrometry-based quantification, 48 TGFBR2-regulated proteins were identified in MSI CRC-derived EVs. Overall, TGFBR2 deficiency caused upregulation of several EV proteins related to the extracellular matrix and nucleosome as well as downregulation of proteasome-associated proteins. The present study emphasizes the general overlap of proteins between EVs and their parental CRC cells but also highlights the impact of TGFBR2 deficiency on EV protein composition. From a clinical perspective, TGFBR2-regulated quantitative differences of protein expression in EVs might nominate novel biomarkers for liquid biopsy-based MSI typing in the future.
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Kanno Y. The Role of Fibrinolytic Regulators in Vascular Dysfunction of Systemic Sclerosis. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20030619. [PMID: 30709025 PMCID: PMC6387418 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20030619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2018] [Revised: 01/28/2019] [Accepted: 01/29/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a connective tissue disease of autoimmune origin characterized by vascular dysfunction and extensive fibrosis of the skin and visceral organs. Vascular dysfunction is caused by endothelial cell (EC) apoptosis, defective angiogenesis, defective vasculogenesis, endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndoMT), and coagulation abnormalities, and exacerbates the disease. Fibrinolytic regulators, such as plasminogen (Plg), plasmin, α2-antiplasmin (α2AP), tissue-type plasminogen activator (tPA), urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA) and its receptor (uPAR), plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 (PAI-1), and angiostatin, are considered to play an important role in the maintenance of endothelial homeostasis, and are associated with the endothelial dysfunction of SSc. This review considers the roles of fibrinolytic factors in vascular dysfunction of SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yosuke Kanno
- Department of Clinical Pathological Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Science, Doshisha Women's College of Liberal Arts, 97-1 Kodo Kyo-tanabe, Kyoto 610-0395, Japan.
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Meng XM. Inflammatory Mediators and Renal Fibrosis. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2019; 1165:381-406. [PMID: 31399975 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-13-8871-2_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Renal inflammation is the initial, healthy response to renal injury. However, prolonged inflammation promotes the fibrosis process, which leads to chronic pathology and eventually end-stage kidney disease. There are two major sources of inflammatory cells: first, bone marrow-derived leukocytes that include neutrophils, macrophages, fibrocytes and mast cells, and second, locally activated kidney cells such as mesangial cells, podocytes, tubular epithelial cells, endothelial cells and fibroblasts. These activated cells produce many profibrotic cytokines and growth factors that cause accumulation and activation of myofibroblasts, and enhance the production of the extracellular matrix. In particular, activated macrophages are key mediators that drive acute inflammation into chronic kidney disease. They produce large amounts of profibrotic factors and modify the microenvironment via a paracrine effect, and they also transdifferentiate to myofibroblasts directly, although the origin of myofibroblasts in the fibrosing kidney remains controversial. Collectively, understanding inflammatory cell functions and mechanisms during renal fibrosis is paramount to improving diagnosis and treatment of chronic kidney disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Ming Meng
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China.
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Akdoğan Ö, Atak Yücel A, Gök Sargin Z, Sönmez C, Esendağli Yilmaz G, Özenirler S. Evaluation of Plasma Urokinase-Type Plasminogen Activator Receptor (UPAR) in Patients With Chronic Hepatitis B, C and Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) as Serological Fibrosis Marker. J Clin Exp Hepatol 2019; 9:29-33. [PMID: 30765936 PMCID: PMC6363952 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2018.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2017] [Accepted: 02/08/2018] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Progressive hepatic fibrosis is the main predictor of outcome and prognosis in chronic liver diseases. The importance of the coagulation cascade has been defined in liver fibrosis; however, the role of the fibrinolytic pathway has not been clear yet. We aimed to evaluate the association between the plasma levels of soluble urokinase Plasminogen Activator Receptor (uPAR) and the severity of liver fibrosis in chronic hepatitis B, C and Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD). METHODS 96 chronic hepatitis B, 22 chronic hepatitis C and 11 NAFLD patients together with 47 healthy controls were enrolled in the study. uPAR plasma levels were detected by Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) method. RESULTS The plasma levels of uPAR in patients with chronic hepatitis B and C significantly exceeded those of healthy controls (P < 0.001) while mean uPAR levels in patients with NAFLD were not different from healthy controls. Mean uPAR levels in chronic viral hepatitis patients with F1-F3 fibrosis and F4-F6 fibrosis were higher than those of control group (P < 0.001). Mean uPAR level in patients with F4-F6 fibrosis was significantly higher than that of patients with F1-F3 fibrosis (P < 0.001). CONCLUSION This is the first study that investigated uPAR as a fibrosis marker in NAFLD and chronic hepatitis B patients. It is suggested that plasma levels of uPAR are closely related to the fibrosis stage in chronic hepatitis B and C and that uPAR might be a noninvasive marker of liver fibrosis.
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Key Words
- ALT, Alanine Aminotransferase
- ECM, Extracellular Matrix
- ELISA, Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay
- HRP, Horseradish Peroxidase
- HSCs, Hepatic Stellate Cells
- MMPs, Matrix Metalloproteinases
- NAFLD, Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
- NIA, Necro-Inflammatory Activity
- OD, Optical Densities
- PAIs, Plasminogen Activator Inhibitors
- TGF-beta, Transforming Growth Factor-beta
- TIMPs, Tissue Inhibitors of Metalloproteinases
- hepatitis B
- hepatitis C
- non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
- tPA, tissue-type Plasminogen Activator
- uPA, urokinase-type Plasminogen Activator
- uPAR, urokinase Plasminogen Activator Receptor
- urokinease-type plasminogen activator receptor
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Affiliation(s)
- Özlem Akdoğan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Faculty of Medicine, Gazi University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Ayşegül Atak Yücel
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Gazi University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Zeynep Gök Sargin
- Department of Gastroenterology, Faculty of Medicine, Gazi University, Ankara, Turkey,Address for correspondence: Zeynep Gök Sargin, Department of Gastroenterology, Faculty of Medicine, Gazi University, 06510 Beşevler, Ankara, Turkey. Tel.: +90 3122027578; fax: +90 3122129016; mobile: +90 5078179704.
| | - Cemile Sönmez
- Sexually Transmitted Research Laboratory, National Public Health Institution of Turkey, Ankara, Turkey
| | | | - Seren Özenirler
- Department of Gastroenterology, Faculty of Medicine, Gazi University, Ankara, Turkey
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Huang X, Zhang T, Li G, Guo X, Liu X. Regulation of miR‐125a expression by rs12976445 single‐nucleotide polymorphism is associated with radiotherapy‐induced pneumonitis in lung carcinoma patients. J Cell Biochem 2018; 120:4485-4493. [PMID: 30302847 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.27736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2018] [Accepted: 08/30/2018] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Huang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University Harbin China
| | - Tianze Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University Harbin China
| | - Guanghua Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University Harbin China
| | - Xiaona Guo
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University Harbin China
| | - Xuesong Liu
- Nursing Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University Harbin China
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Immuno-driven and Mechano-mediated Neotissue Formation in Tissue Engineered Vascular Grafts. Ann Biomed Eng 2018; 46:1938-1950. [PMID: 29987541 DOI: 10.1007/s10439-018-2086-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2018] [Accepted: 06/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
In vivo development of a neovessel from an implanted biodegradable polymeric scaffold depends on a delicate balance between polymer degradation and native matrix deposition. Studies in mice suggest that this balance is dictated by immuno-driven and mechanotransduction-mediated processes, with neotissue increasingly balancing the hemodynamically induced loads as the polymer degrades. Computational models of neovessel development can help delineate relative time-dependent contributions of the immunobiological and mechanobiological processes that determine graft success or failure. In this paper, we compare computational results informed by long-term studies of neovessel development in immuno-compromised and immuno-competent mice. Simulations suggest that an early exuberant inflammatory response can limit subsequent mechano-sensing by synthetic intramural cells and thereby attenuate the desired long-term mechano-mediated production of matrix. Simulations also highlight key inflammatory differences in the two mouse models, which allow grafts in the immuno-compromised mouse to better match the biomechanical properties of the native vessel. Finally, the predicted inflammatory time courses revealed critical periods of graft remodeling. We submit that computational modeling can help uncover mechanisms of observed neovessel development and improve the design of the scaffold or its clinical use.
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Nüchel J, Ghatak S, Zuk AV, Illerhaus A, Mörgelin M, Schönborn K, Blumbach K, Wickström SA, Krieg T, Sengle G, Plomann M, Eckes B. TGFB1 is secreted through an unconventional pathway dependent on the autophagic machinery and cytoskeletal regulators. Autophagy 2018; 14:465-486. [PMID: 29297744 DOI: 10.1080/15548627.2017.1422850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
TGFB1 (transforming growth factor beta 1) is a potent cytokine playing a driving role in development, fibrosis and cancer. It is synthesized as prodomain-growth factor complex that requires tethering to LTBP (latent transforming growth factor beta binding protein) for efficient secretion into the extracellular space. Upon release, this large latent complex is sequestered by anchorage to extracellular matrix (ECM) networks, from which the mature growth factor needs to be activated in order to reach its receptors and initiate signaling. Here, we uncovered a novel intracellular secretion pathway by which the latent TGFB1 complex reaches the plasma membrane and is released from fibroblasts, the key effector cells during tissue repair, fibrosis and in the tumor stroma. We show that secretion of latent TGFB1, but not of other selected cytokines or of bulk cargo, is regulated by fibroblast-ECM communication through ILK (integrin linked kinase) that restricts RHOA activity by interacting with ARHGAP26/GRAF1. Latent TGFB1 interacts with GORASP2/GRASP55 and is detected inside MAP1LC3-positive autophagosomal intermediates that are secreted by a RAB8A-dependent pathway. Interestingly, TGFB1 secretion is fully abrogated in human and murine fibroblasts and macrophages that lack key components of the autophagic machinery. Our data demonstrate an unconventional secretion mode of TGFB1 adding another level of control of its bioavailability and activity in order to effectively orchestrate cellular programs prone to dysregulation as seen in fibrosis and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julian Nüchel
- a Center for Biochemistry , University of Cologne , Cologne , Germany
| | - Sushmita Ghatak
- b Department of Dermatology, University of Cologne , Cologne , Germany
| | - Alexandra V Zuk
- a Center for Biochemistry , University of Cologne , Cologne , Germany
| | - Anja Illerhaus
- b Department of Dermatology, University of Cologne , Cologne , Germany
| | - Matthias Mörgelin
- c Department of Infection Medicine , Biomedical Center, University of Lund , Lund , Sweden
| | - Katrin Schönborn
- b Department of Dermatology, University of Cologne , Cologne , Germany
| | - Katrin Blumbach
- b Department of Dermatology, University of Cologne , Cologne , Germany
| | - Sara A Wickström
- d Max Planck Institute for Biology of Ageing , Cologne , Germany.,e Cologne Cluster of Excellence in Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD) , Cologne , Germany
| | - Thomas Krieg
- b Department of Dermatology, University of Cologne , Cologne , Germany.,e Cologne Cluster of Excellence in Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD) , Cologne , Germany.,f Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne , University of Cologne , Cologne , Germany
| | - Gerhard Sengle
- a Center for Biochemistry , University of Cologne , Cologne , Germany.,f Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne , University of Cologne , Cologne , Germany
| | - Markus Plomann
- a Center for Biochemistry , University of Cologne , Cologne , Germany
| | - Beate Eckes
- b Department of Dermatology, University of Cologne , Cologne , Germany
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Schulz JN, Plomann M, Sengle G, Gullberg D, Krieg T, Eckes B. New developments on skin fibrosis - Essential signals emanating from the extracellular matrix for the control of myofibroblasts. Matrix Biol 2018; 68-69:522-532. [PMID: 29408278 DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2018.01.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2017] [Revised: 01/29/2018] [Accepted: 01/29/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Many different diseases are associated with fibrosis of the skin. The clinical symptoms can vary considerably with a broad range from isolated small areas to the involvement of the entire integument. Fibrosis is triggered by a multitude of different stimuli leading to activation of the immune and vascular system that then initiate fibroblast activation and formation of matrix depositing and remodeling myofibroblasts. Ultimately, myofibroblasts deposit excessive amounts of extracellular matrix with a pathological architecture and alterations in growth factor binding and biomechanical properties, which culminates in skin hardening and loss of mobility. Treatment depends certainly on the specific type and cause of the disease, for the autoimmune driven localized and systemic scleroderma therapeutic options are still limited, but recent research has pointed out diverse molecular targets and mechanisms that can be exploited for the development of novel antifibrotic therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Markus Plomann
- Center for Biochemistry, University of Cologne, Medical Faculty, Cologne, Germany
| | - Gerhard Sengle
- Center for Biochemistry, University of Cologne, Medical Faculty, Cologne, Germany; Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Donald Gullberg
- Department of Biomedicine, Centre for Cancer Biomarkers (CCBIO), University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Thomas Krieg
- Department of Dermatology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Translational Matrix Biology, University of Cologne, Medical Faculty, Cologne, Germany; Cluster of Excellence in Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Beate Eckes
- Department of Dermatology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Translational Matrix Biology, University of Cologne, Medical Faculty, Cologne, Germany.
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41
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Biotin-Chasing Assay to Evaluate uPAR Stability and Cleavage on the Surface of Cells. Methods Mol Biol 2018. [PMID: 29318541 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-7595-2_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register]
Abstract
The plasminogen activation system, i.e., the fibrinolytic system, is one of the major plasma proteolytic pathways. The proteolytic conversion of the zymogen plasminogen to the active serine protease plasmin is on the cell surface catalyzed by the serine protease urokinase-type plasminogen activator (urokinase, uPA). Upon binding to the urokinase receptor (uPAR, CD87), single-chain pro-uPA is processed to double-chain uPA which in turn specifically converts cell-bound plasminogen to plasmin. Plasmin is harnessed in many physiological processes, e.g., blood clots' resolution, or proteolytic activation of growth factors. Plasmin is essential also for migratory cells, for instance, activated immune cells; however, malignant cells hijack plasmin for invasion as well. The activation of plasminogen to plasmin is thus at the physiological level tightly controlled. One of the negative regulators of plasminogen activation has been identified in the cation-independent mannose 6-phosphate/insulin-like growth factor 2 receptor (M6P/IGF2R, CIMPR, CD222). M6P/IGF2R is a multifunctional receptor involved in protein sorting, internalization, and degradation, being considered a tumor suppressor. M6P/IGF2R binds both plasminogen and uPAR and facilitates in this way the proteolytic cleavage of uPAR resulting in the loss of the uPA binding on the cell surface. Hence, this molecular device contributes to the negative feedback loop in regulation of pericellular plasminogen activation and cell invasion.In this chapter, we describe the experimental approach, i.e., biotin-chasing assay, to evaluate uPAR stability and cleavage on the surface of cells.
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Jaiswal RK, Varshney AK, Yadava PK. Diversity and functional evolution of the plasminogen activator system. Biomed Pharmacother 2018; 98:886-898. [PMID: 29571259 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2018.01.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2017] [Revised: 12/29/2017] [Accepted: 01/03/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The urokinase plasminogen activator system is a family of serine proteases which consists of uPA (urokinase plasminogen activator), uPAR (urokinase type plasminogen activator receptor) and PAI-1 (plasminogen activator inhibitor 1). In addition to their significant roles in activation, these proteases act as key regulators of the tumor microenvironment and are involved in the metastatic process in many cancers. High levels of uPA system proteases in many human cancer predicts poor patient prognosis and strongly indicated a key role of uPA system in cancer metastasis. Individual components of uPA system are found to be differentially expressed in cancer cells compared to normal cells and therefore are potential therapeutic targets. In this review, we present the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying the role of uPA system in cancer progression. Epithelial to mesenchymal transitions (EMT) is the main cause of the cancer cell metastasis. We have also attempted to relate the role of uPA signaling in EMT of cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rishi Kumar Jaiswal
- Applied Molecular Biology Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi 110067, India
| | - Akhil Kumar Varshney
- Applied Molecular Biology Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi 110067, India
| | - Pramod Kumar Yadava
- Applied Molecular Biology Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi 110067, India.
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43
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Schrenk S, Cenzi C, Bertalot T, Conconi MT, Di Liddo R. Structural and functional failure of fibrillin‑1 in human diseases (Review). Int J Mol Med 2017; 41:1213-1223. [PMID: 29286095 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2017.3343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2017] [Accepted: 11/29/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibrillins (FBNs) are key relay molecules that form the backbone of microfibrils in elastic and non‑elastic tissues. Interacting with other components of the extracellular matrix (ECM), these ubiquitous glycoproteins exert pivotal roles in tissue development, homeostasis and repair. In addition to mechanical support, FBN networks also exhibit regulatory activities on growth factor signalling, ECM formation, cell behaviour and the immune response. Consequently, mutations affecting the structure, assembly and stability of FBN microfibrils have been associated with impaired biomechanical tissue properties, altered cell‑matrix interactions, uncontrolled growth factor or cytokine activation, and the development of fibrillinopathies and associated severe complications in multiple organs. Beyond a panoramic overview of structural cues of the FBN network, the present review will also describe the pathological implications of FBN disorders in the development of inflammatory and fibrotic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Schrenk
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Padova, I‑35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Carola Cenzi
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Padova, I‑35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Thomas Bertalot
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Padova, I‑35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Maria Teresa Conconi
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Padova, I‑35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Rosa Di Liddo
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Padova, I‑35131 Padova, Italy
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44
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Afaloniati H, Karagiannis GS, Hardas A, Poutahidis T, Angelopoulou K. Inflammation-driven colon neoplasmatogenesis in uPA-deficient mice is associated with an increased expression of Runx transcriptional regulators. Exp Cell Res 2017; 361:257-264. [DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2017.10.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2017] [Revised: 10/23/2017] [Accepted: 10/24/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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45
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Liu S, Chen S, Zeng J. TGF‑β signaling: A complex role in tumorigenesis (Review). Mol Med Rep 2017; 17:699-704. [PMID: 29115550 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2017.7970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2016] [Accepted: 03/07/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumor progression can be affected by various cellular components of tumor cells and/or by tumor microenvironmental factors. The tumor microenvironment comprises a variety of nonmalignant stromal cells and inflammatory cytokines, which are pivotal in tumor promotion and progression. The transforming growth factor‑β (TGF‑β) ligands (TGF‑β1, 2 and 3) are secreted inflammatory cytokines, which are known to be involved in various aspects of tumor development through two transmembrane serine‑threonine kinase receptors, TGFβR1 and TGFβR2. TGF‑β promotes or inhibits tumorigenesis depending on the concurrent gene mutations and tissue microenvironment present through the small mothers against decapentaplegic (Smad) and non‑Smad pathways. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the role of the TGF‑β pathway in tumor initiation and progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuang Liu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing 401331, P.R. China
| | - Shuang Chen
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, P.R. China
| | - Jun Zeng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing 401331, P.R. China
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46
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Raju GT, Lakkakula BVKS, Murthy J, Kannan MA, Paul SFD. Transmission analysis of TGFB1 gene polymorphisms in non-syndromic cleft lip with or without cleft palate. Int J Pediatr Otorhinolaryngol 2017; 100:14-17. [PMID: 28802359 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijporl.2017.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2017] [Revised: 06/10/2017] [Accepted: 06/14/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Transforming growth factor beta1 (TGF-β1) plays a significant role in craniofacial development. Previous linkage studies reported that the TGF-β1-locus at 19q13.1 harbour predisposing genes for non-syndromic oral clefts. In the present study case parents triads were evaluated to find the transmission effects of genetic variants in TGF- β1 towards non-syndromic cleft lip or palate (NSCL/P). METHODS Using allelic discrimination method148 families (case-parent triads) were assessed for single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in TGF-β1 gene. The SNPs were checked for mendelian errors and Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium (HWE). Transmission disequilibrium test and haplotype frequencies were estimated. RESULTS The TGF-β1 SNPs showed very low minor allele frequencies (MAFs) and observed heterozygosity (Hobs). The transmission disequilibrium test (TDT) and parent-of-origin likelihood ratio tests (PO-LRT) were not significant for any of the SNPs tested. Strong linkage disequilibrium (r2 = 0.722) was found between rs1800469 and rs1800470 SNPs. Haplotype analysis ignoring parent of origin showed strong evidence of excess transmission but it is not significant (p-value = 0.293). CONCLUSION Transmission of minor alleles were not observed from either parent indicating that the TGF-β1 gene polymorphisms by themselves do not confer risk for non-syndromic oral clefts but, rather, modify the stability and the activation process of TGF-β1. As the number of families included in the study are less, results must be considered still preliminary and require replication using more families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ginila T Raju
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Sri Ramachandra University, Chennai, India
| | - Bhaskar V K S Lakkakula
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Sri Ramachandra University, Chennai, India; Sickle Cell Institute Chhattisgarh, Raipur, India
| | - Jyotsna Murthy
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Sri Ramachandra University, Chennai, India
| | | | - Solomon F D Paul
- Department of Human Genetics, Sri Ramachandra University, Chennai, India.
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47
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Santibanez JF, Obradović H, Kukolj T, Krstić J. Transforming growth factor-β, matrix metalloproteinases, and urokinase-type plasminogen activator interaction in the cancer epithelial to mesenchymal transition. Dev Dyn 2017; 247:382-395. [PMID: 28722327 DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.24554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2017] [Revised: 07/06/2017] [Accepted: 07/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) is a pleiotropic factor that acts as a tumor suppressor in the early stages, while it exerts tumor promoting activities in advanced stages of cancer development. One of the hallmarks of cancer progression is the capacity of cancer cells to migrate and invade surrounding tissues with subsequent metastasis to different organs. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) together with urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA) and its receptor (uPAR), whose main original function described is the proteolytic degradation of the extracellular matrix, play key cellular roles in the enhancement of cell malignancy during cancer progression. TGF-β tightly regulates the expression of several MMPs and uPA/uPAR in cancer cells, which in return can participate in TGF-β activation, thus contributing to tumor malignancy. TGF-β is one of the master factors in the induction of cancer-associated epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), and recently both MMPs and uPA/uPAR have also been shown to be implicated in the cancer-associated EMT process. In this review, we analyze the main molecular mechanisms underlying MMPs and uPA/uPAR regulation by TGF-β, as well as their mutual implication in the development of EMT in cancer cells. Developmental Dynamics 247:382-395, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan F Santibanez
- Group for Molecular Oncology, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Republic of Serbia.,Centro Integrativo de Biología y Química Aplicada (CIBQA), Universidad Bernardo O'Higgins, Santiago, Chile
| | - Hristina Obradović
- Laboratory for Experimental Hematology and Stem Cells, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Republic of Serbia
| | - Tamara Kukolj
- Laboratory for Experimental Hematology and Stem Cells, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Republic of Serbia
| | - Jelena Krstić
- Laboratory for Experimental Hematology and Stem Cells, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Republic of Serbia.,Institute of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
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Walton KL, Johnson KE, Harrison CA. Targeting TGF-β Mediated SMAD Signaling for the Prevention of Fibrosis. Front Pharmacol 2017; 8:461. [PMID: 28769795 PMCID: PMC5509761 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2017.00461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 357] [Impact Index Per Article: 51.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2017] [Accepted: 06/27/2017] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis occurs when there is an imbalance in extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition and degradation. Excessive ECM deposition results in scarring and thickening of the affected tissue, and interferes with tissue and organ homeostasis – mimicking an exaggerated “wound healing” response. Many transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) ligands are potent drivers of ECM deposition, and additionally, have a natural affinity for the ECM, creating a concentrated pool of pro-fibrotic factors at the site of injury. Consequently, TGF-β ligands are upregulated in many human fibrotic conditions and, as such, are attractive targets for fibrosis therapy. Here, we will discuss the contribution of TGF-β proteins in the pathogenesis of fibrosis, and promising anti-fibrotic approaches that target TGF-β ligands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly L Walton
- Growth Factor Therapeutics Laboratory, Department of Physiology, Monash University, ClaytonVIC, Australia
| | - Katharine E Johnson
- Growth Factor Therapeutics Laboratory, Department of Physiology, Monash University, ClaytonVIC, Australia
| | - Craig A Harrison
- Growth Factor Therapeutics Laboratory, Department of Physiology, Monash University, ClaytonVIC, Australia
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49
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Svenningsen P, Hinrichs GR, Zachar R, Ydegaard R, Jensen BL. Physiology and pathophysiology of the plasminogen system in the kidney. Pflugers Arch 2017; 469:1415-1423. [DOI: 10.1007/s00424-017-2014-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2017] [Revised: 06/09/2017] [Accepted: 06/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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50
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Liu W, Hajjar KA. The annexin A2 system and angiogenesis. Biol Chem 2017; 397:1005-16. [PMID: 27366903 DOI: 10.1515/hsz-2016-0166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2016] [Accepted: 06/28/2016] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
The formation of new blood vessels from pre-existing vasculature, the process known as angiogenesis, is highly regulated by pro- and anti-angiogenic signaling molecules including growth factors and proteases. As an endothelial cell-surface co-receptor for plasminogen and tissue plasminogen activator, the annexin A2 (ANXA2) complex accelerates plasmin generation and facilitates fibrinolysis. Plasmin can subsequently activate a downstream proteolytic cascade involving multiple matrix metalloproteinases. Thus, in addition to maintaining blood vessel patency, the ANXA2 complex can also promote angiogenesis via its pro-fibrinolytic activity. The generation of ANXA2-deficient mice allowed us to first observe the pro-angiogenic role of ANXA2 in vivo. Further investigations have provided additional details regarding the mechanism for ANXA2 regulation of retinal and corneal angiogenesis. Other studies have reported that ANXA2 supports angiogenesis in specific tumor-related settings. Here, we summarize results from in vivo studies that illustrate the pro-angiogenic role of ANXA2, and discuss the critical questions that may lead to an advanced understanding of the molecular mechanisms for ANXA2-mediated angiogenesis. Finally, highlights from studies on ANXA2-interacting agents offer potential therapeutic opportunities for the application of ANXA2-centered pharmaceuticals in angiogenesis-related disorders.
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