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Li X, Zhao X, Yin R, Yuan M, Zhang Y, Li X. TGF-β2-induced alterations of m6A methylation in hTERT RPE-1 cells. Exp Eye Res 2024; 241:109839. [PMID: 38395214 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2024.109839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is a major type of RNA modification implicated in various pathophysiological processes. Transforming growth factor β2 (TGF-β2) induces epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in retinal pigmental epithelial (RPE) cells and promotes the progression of proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR). However, the role of m6A methylation in the EMT of human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) retinal pigmental epithelium (RPE)-1 cells has not been clarified. Here, we extracted RNA from RPE cells subjected to 0 or 20 ng/mL TGF-β2 for 72 h and identified differentially methylated genes (DMGs) by m6A-Seq and differentially expressed genes (DEGs) by RNA-Seq. We selected the genes related to EMT by conjoint m6A-Seq/RNA-Seq analysis and verified them by qRT-PCR. We then confirmed the function of m6A methylation in the EMT of RPE cells by knocking down the methyltransferase METTL3 and the m6A reading protein YTHDF1. Sequencing yielded 5814 DMGs and 1607 DEGs. Conjoint analysis selected 467 genes altered at the m6A and RNA levels that are closely associated with the EMT-related TGF-β, AGE-RAGE, PI3K-Akt, P53, and Wnt signaling pathways. We also identified ten core EMT genes ACTG2, BMP6, CDH2, LOXL2, SNAIL1, SPARC, BMP4, EMP3, FOXM1, and MYC. Their RNA levels were evaluated by qRT-PCR and were consistent with the sequencing results. We observed that METTL3 knockdown enhanced RPE cell migration and significantly upregulated the EMT markers N-cadherin (encoded by CDH2), fibronectin (FN), Snail family transcription repressor (SLUG), and vimentin. However, YTHDF1 knockdown had the opposite effects and decreased both cell migration and the N-cadherin, FN, and SLUG expression levels. The present study clarified TGF-β2-induced m6A- and RNA-level differences in RPE cells, indicated that m6A methylation might regulate EMT marker expression, and showed that m6A could regulate TGF-β2-induced EMT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Li
- Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Zhengzhou, China; Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Eye Institute, Henan Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Zhengzhou, China; People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China; People's Hospital of Henan University, Zhengzhou, China; Henan Academy of Innovations in Medical Science, Eye Institute, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xueru Zhao
- Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Zhengzhou, China; Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Eye Institute, Henan Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Zhengzhou, China; People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China; People's Hospital of Henan University, Zhengzhou, China; Henan Academy of Innovations in Medical Science, Eye Institute, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ruijie Yin
- Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Zhengzhou, China; Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Eye Institute, Henan Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Zhengzhou, China; People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China; People's Hospital of Henan University, Zhengzhou, China; Henan Academy of Innovations in Medical Science, Eye Institute, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Min Yuan
- Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Zhengzhou, China; Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Eye Institute, Henan Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Zhengzhou, China; People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China; People's Hospital of Henan University, Zhengzhou, China; Henan Academy of Innovations in Medical Science, Eye Institute, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yongya Zhang
- Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Zhengzhou, China; People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xiaohua Li
- Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Zhengzhou, China; Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Eye Institute, Henan Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Zhengzhou, China; People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China; People's Hospital of Henan University, Zhengzhou, China; Henan Academy of Innovations in Medical Science, Eye Institute, Zhengzhou, China.
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Hu W, Huang Y, Kou P, Huang X. Increased serum cystatin C levels in patients with idiopathic epiretinal membrane. Clin Exp Optom 2024; 107:318-323. [PMID: 37218573 DOI: 10.1080/08164622.2023.2215381] [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: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
CLINICAL RELEVANCE Increased serum cystatin C may play a role in the pathogenesis of idiopathic epiretinal membrane (IERM). Physicians should be aware of this relationship and should refer patients to the ophthalmology clinic for screening. BACKGROUND To evaluate the serum cystatin C level in patients with IERM, and its associations with visual acuity. METHODS Sixty-eight patients with IERM and sixty-nine controls were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. Based on the results of optical coherence tomography, patients with IERM were divided into four stages (I, II, III and IV). Serum cystatin C was measured in all participants. Serum cystatin C levels were compared between the control group and IERM group and between the IERM group with different optical coherence tomography stages. Multiple linear regression was used to evaluate the relationship between serum cystatin C and IERM stages and best corrected visual acuity. RESULTS Serum cystatin C level was higher in the IERM group than in the control group (P < 0.001). There were statistically significant differences in serum cystatin C among different stages of IERM (PI vs II = 0.011, PI vs IV < 0.001 and PIII vs IV = 0.040, respectively). There were significant differences in best corrected visual acuity among different stages of IERM (PI vs III = 0.018, PI vs IV < 0.001, PII vs IV < 0.001 and PIII vs IV < 0.001, respectively). Regression analysis showed a positive correlation between serum cystatin C and best corrected visual acuity (t = 2.238 P = 0.029). The cut-off value of receiver operation characteristic curve of serum cystatin C for IERM was 0.775. CONCLUSION This study revealed that serum cystatin C may be involved in the pathogenesis of IERM and can predict its occurrence. Elevated serum cystatin C appears to be associated with the severity of the disease and relatively poor vision acuity in IERM patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiwen Hu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan, People's Republic of China
| | - Yikeng Huang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Pengyuan Kou
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan, People's Republic of China
| | - Xionggao Huang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan, People's Republic of China
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Ham SM, Song MJ, Yoon HS, Lee DH, Chung JH, Lee ST. SPARC Is Highly Expressed in Young Skin and Promotes Extracellular Matrix Integrity in Fibroblasts via the TGF-β Signaling Pathway. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12179. [PMID: 37569556 PMCID: PMC10419001 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241512179] [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: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The matricellular secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine (SPARC; also known as osteonectin), is involved in the regulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) synthesis, cell-ECM interactions, and bone mineralization. We found decreased SPARC expression in aged skin. Incubating foreskin fibroblasts with recombinant human SPARC led to increased type I collagen production and decreased matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) secretion at the protein and mRNA levels. In a three-dimensional culture of foreskin fibroblasts mimicking the dermis, SPARC significantly increased the synthesis of type I collagen and decreased its degradation. In addition, SPARC also induced receptor-regulated SMAD (R-SMAD) phosphorylation. An inhibitor of transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) receptor type 1 reversed the SPARC-induced increase in type I collagen and decrease in MMP-1, and decreased SPARC-induced R-SMAD phosphorylation. Transcriptome analysis revealed that SPARC modulated expression of genes involved in ECM synthesis and regulation in fibroblasts. RT-qPCR confirmed that a subset of differentially expressed genes is induced by SPARC. These results indicated that SPARC enhanced ECM integrity by activating the TGF-β signaling pathway in fibroblasts. We inferred that the decline in SPARC expression in aged skin contributes to process of skin aging by negatively affecting ECM integrity in fibroblasts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seung Min Ham
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea;
| | - Min Ji Song
- Department of Dermatology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea; (M.J.S.); (H.-S.Y.); (D.H.L.); (J.H.C.)
- Laboratory of Cutaneous Aging Research, Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Human-Environment Interface Biology, Seoul National University, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun-Sun Yoon
- Department of Dermatology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea; (M.J.S.); (H.-S.Y.); (D.H.L.); (J.H.C.)
- Laboratory of Cutaneous Aging Research, Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Human-Environment Interface Biology, Seoul National University, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
- Department of Dermatology, Seoul National University Boramae Hospital, Seoul 07061, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong Hun Lee
- Department of Dermatology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea; (M.J.S.); (H.-S.Y.); (D.H.L.); (J.H.C.)
- Laboratory of Cutaneous Aging Research, Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Human-Environment Interface Biology, Seoul National University, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Ho Chung
- Department of Dermatology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea; (M.J.S.); (H.-S.Y.); (D.H.L.); (J.H.C.)
- Laboratory of Cutaneous Aging Research, Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Human-Environment Interface Biology, Seoul National University, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
- Institute on Aging, Seoul National University, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung-Taek Lee
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea;
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Jiang S, Sun HF, Li S, Zhang N, Chen JS, Liu JX. SPARC: a potential target for functional nanomaterials and drugs. Front Mol Biosci 2023; 10:1235428. [PMID: 37577749 PMCID: PMC10419254 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2023.1235428] [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: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine (SPARC), also termed osteonectin or BM-40, is a matricellular protein which regulates cell adhesion, extracellular matrix production, growth factor activity, and cell cycle. Although SPARC does not perform a structural function, it, however, modulates interactions between cells and the surrounding extracellular matrix due to its anti-proliferative and anti-adhesion properties. The overexpression of SPARC at sites, including injury, regeneration, obesity, cancer, and inflammation, reveals its application as a prospective target and therapeutic indicator in the treatment and assessment of disease. This article comprehensively summarizes the mechanism of SPARC overexpression in inflammation and tumors as well as the latest research progress of functional nanomaterials in the therapy of rheumatoid arthritis and tumors by manipulating SPARC as a new target. This article provides ideas for using functional nanomaterials to treat inflammatory diseases through the SPARC target. The purpose of this article is to provide a reference for ongoing disease research based on SPARC-targeted therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shan Jiang
- School of Pharmacy, Heilongjiang University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Rehabilitation and Healthcare, Hunan University of Medicine, Huaihua, China
| | - Hui-Feng Sun
- School of Pharmacy, Heilongjiang University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Shuang Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Rehabilitation and Healthcare, Hunan University of Medicine, Huaihua, China
- College Pharmacy, Jiamusi University, Jiamusi, China
| | - Ning Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Heilongjiang University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Rehabilitation and Healthcare, Hunan University of Medicine, Huaihua, China
| | - Ji-Song Chen
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Rehabilitation and Healthcare, Hunan University of Medicine, Huaihua, China
| | - Jian-Xin Liu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Rehabilitation and Healthcare, Hunan University of Medicine, Huaihua, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of South China, Hengyang, China
- Institute of Innovation and Applied Research in Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
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Lee KN, Park KH, Ahn K, Im EM, Oh E, Cho I. Extracellular matrix-related and serine protease proteins in the amniotic fluid of women with early preterm labor: Association with spontaneous preterm birth, intra-amniotic inflammation, and microbial invasion of the amniotic cavity. Am J Reprod Immunol 2023; 90:e13736. [PMID: 37382175 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Revised: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM We aimed to determine whether altered levels of various extracellular matrix (ECM)-related and serine protease proteins in the amniotic fluid (AF) are associated with imminent spontaneous preterm birth (SPTB; ≤7 days) and intra-amniotic inflammation and/or microbial invasion of the amniotic cavity (IAI/MIAC) in women with early preterm labor (PTL). METHOD OF STUDY This retrospective cohort study included 252 women with singleton pregnancies undergoing transabdominal amniocentesis who demonstrated PTL (24-31 weeks). The AF was cultured for microorganism detection to characterize MIAC. IL-6 concentrations were determined in the AF samples to identify IAI (≥2.6 ng/mL). The following mediators were measured in the AF samples using ELISA: kallistatin, lumican, MMP-2, SPARC, TGFBI, and uPA. RESULTS Kallistatin, MMP-2, TGFBI, and uPA levels were significantly higher and SPARC and lumican levels were significantly lower in the AF of women who spontaneously delivered within 7 days than in the AF of those who delivered after 7 days; the levels of the first five mediators were independent of baseline clinical variables. In the multivariate analysis, elevated levels of kallistatin, MMP-2, TGFBI, and uPA and low levels of lumican and SPARC in the AF were significantly associated with IAI/MIAC and MIAC, even after adjusting for the gestational age at sampling. The areas under the curves of the aforementioned biomarkers ranged from 0.58 to 0.87 for the diagnoses of each of the corresponding endpoints. CONCLUSION ECM-related (SPARC, TGFBI, lumican, and MMP-2) and serine protease (kallistatin and uPA) proteins in the AF are involved in preterm parturition and regulation of intra-amniotic inflammatory/infectious responses in PTL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyong-No Lee
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, South Korea
| | - Kyo Hoon Park
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, South Korea
| | - Kwanghee Ahn
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, South Korea
| | - Eun Mi Im
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, South Korea
| | - Eunji Oh
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, South Korea
| | - Iseop Cho
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, South Korea
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Feldt J, Garriz A, Rodriguez Benavente MC, Woodward AM, Zoukhri D, Argüeso P. The Matricellular Protein SPARC Decreases in the Lacrimal Gland At Adulthood and During Inflammation. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2022; 63:8. [PMID: 36479944 PMCID: PMC9742964 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.63.13.8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine (SPARC) is a matricellular glycoprotein abundantly expressed in basement membranes and capsules surrounding a variety of organs and tissues. It mediates extracellular matrix organization and has been implicated in cell contraction. Here, we evaluated the expression of SPARC in the murine lacrimal gland at adulthood and during inflammation. Methods Lacrimal glands of young mice (4-6 weeks old) and adult mice (32-40 weeks old) were used for extraction of DNA, RNA, and protein. The presence of SPARC was assessed by quantitative PCR, ELISA, and immunofluorescence microscopy. 5-Methylcytosine and DNA methylation were evaluated using ELISA and bisulfite genomic sequencing, respectively. The effects of cytokines and inflammation in Sparc expression were evaluated in vitro and in the non-obese diabetic (NOD) mouse model of Sjögren's syndrome. Results The mRNA and protein levels of SPARC were downregulated in lacrimal glands of mature adult mice presenting age-related histological alterations such as increased deposition of lipofuscin and lipids. Epigenetic analyses indicated that glands in adult mice contain higher levels of global DNA methylation and show increased hypermethylation of specific CpG sites within the Sparc gene promoter. Analysis of smooth muscle actin (SMA)-green fluorescent protein (GFP) transgenic mice revealed that SPARC localizes primarily to myoepithelial cells within the gland. Treatment of myoepithelial cells with IL-1β or TNF-α and the development of inflammation in the NOD mice led to decreased transcription of Sparc. Conclusions SPARC is a novel matricellular glycoprotein expressed by myoepithelial cells in the lacrimal gland. Loss of SPARC during adulthood and chronic inflammation might have detrimental consequences on myoepithelial cell contraction and the secretion of tear fluid.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Feldt
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Mass. Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Angela Garriz
- Department of Comprehensive Care, Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Maria C. Rodriguez Benavente
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Mass. Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Ashley M. Woodward
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Mass. Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Driss Zoukhri
- Department of Comprehensive Care, Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, United States,Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Pablo Argüeso
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Mass. Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
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Ghanemi A, Yoshioka M, St-Amand J. Secreted Protein Acidic and Rich in Cysteine as an Exercise-Induced Gene: Towards Novel Molecular Therapies for Immobilization-Related Muscle Atrophy in Elderly Patients. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13061014. [PMID: 35741776 PMCID: PMC9223229 DOI: 10.3390/genes13061014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Revised: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Long periods of immobilization, among other etiologies, would result is muscle atrophy. Exercise is the best approach to reverse this atrophy. However, the limited or the non-ability to perform the required physical activity for such patients and the limited pharmacological options make developing novel therapeutic approaches a necessity. Within this context, secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine (SPARC) has been characterized as an exercise-induced gene. Whereas the knock-out of this gene leads to a phenotype that mimics number of the ageing-induced and sarcopenia-related changes including muscle atrophy, overexpressing SPARC in mice or adding it to muscular cell culture produces similar effects as exercise including enhanced muscle mass, strength and metabolism. Therefore, this piece of writing aims to provide evidence supporting the potential use of SPARC/SPARC as a molecular therapy for muscle atrophy in the context of immobilization especially for elderly patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdelaziz Ghanemi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Laval University, Quebec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada;
- Functional Genomics Laboratory, Endocrinology and Nephrology Axis, CHU de Québec-Université Laval Research Center, Quebec, QC G1V 4G2, Canada;
| | - Mayumi Yoshioka
- Functional Genomics Laboratory, Endocrinology and Nephrology Axis, CHU de Québec-Université Laval Research Center, Quebec, QC G1V 4G2, Canada;
| | - Jonny St-Amand
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Laval University, Quebec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada;
- Functional Genomics Laboratory, Endocrinology and Nephrology Axis, CHU de Québec-Université Laval Research Center, Quebec, QC G1V 4G2, Canada;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-(418)-654-2296
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Secreted Protein Acidic and Rich in Cysteine (Sparc) KO Leads to an Accelerated Ageing Phenotype Which Is Improved by Exercise Whereas SPARC Overexpression Mimics Exercise Effects in Mice. Metabolites 2022; 12:metabo12020125. [PMID: 35208200 PMCID: PMC8879002 DOI: 10.3390/metabo12020125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine (SPARC) is a matricellular glycoprotein implicated in various functions, including metabolism, tissue regeneration, and functional homeostasis. SPARC/Sparc declines with ageing but increases with exercise. We aim to verify two hypotheses: (1) SPARC deficiency leads to an ageing-like phenotype (metabolic decline, muscle loss, etc.), and (2) SPARC overexpression would mimic exercise, counteract ageing, and improve age-related changes. Our mice experiments are divided into two parts. First, we explore the consequences of Sparc knockout (KO) and compare them to the ageing effects. We also observe the effects of exercise. In the second part, we study the effects of SPARC overexpression and compare them to the exercise benefits. At the end, we make an analysis of the results to point out the analogies between Sparc KO and the ageing-like phenotype on the one hand and make comparisons between SPARC overexpression and exercise in the context of exercise counteracting ageing. The measurements were mainly related to tissue weights, adiposity, metabolism, and muscle strength. The main findings are that Sparc KO reduced glucose tolerance, muscle glucose transporter expression, and abdominal adipose tissue weight but increased glycogen content in the muscle. SPARC overexpression increased muscle strength, muscle mass, and expressions of the muscle glucose transporter and mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation but lowered the glycemia and the adiposity, especially in males. Collectively, these findings, and the data we have previously reported, show that Sparc KO mice manifest an ageing-like phenotype, whereas SPARC overexpression and exercise generate similar benefits. The benefits are towards counteracting both the SPARC deficiency-induced ageing-like phenotype as well as reversing the age-related changes. The potential applications of these findings are to build/optimize Sparc KO-based animal models of various health conditions and, on the other hand, to develop therapies based on introducing SPARC or targeting SPARC-related pathways to mimic exercise against age-related and metabolic disorders.
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Fan J, Zhang X, Jiang Y, Chen L, Sheng M, Chen Y. SPARC knockdown attenuated TGF-β1-induced fibrotic effects through Smad2/3 pathways in human pterygium fibroblasts. Arch Biochem Biophys 2021; 713:109049. [PMID: 34624278 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2021.109049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2021] [Revised: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine (SPARC), a matricellular glycoprotein, has been found to regulate processes involved in fibrotic diseases. The aim of this study was to investigate the anti-fibrotic effects of SPARC in primary human pterygium fibroblasts (HPFs) and elucidate the underlying mechanisms. METHODS The expression of SPARC in HPFs was knocked down by RNA interference-based approach. Subsequently, we examined the expression of profibrotic markers induced by transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), including type 1 collagen (COL1), α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), and fibronectin (FN). The changes in signaling pathways and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) were also detected by western blotting. The cellular migration ability, proliferation ability, apoptosis, and contractile phenotype were detected using the wound healing assay, Cell Counting Kit-8 assay, flow cytometry, and collagen gel contraction assay, respectively. The interaction between SPARC and TGF-β RII was detected by Co-IP RESULTS: Silencing of SPARC inhibited the basal and TGF-β1-induced expression of COL1, α-SMA, and FN in HPFs, and suppressed the expression of p-Smad2, p-Smad3, Smad4 and MMP2, MMP9. The downregulation of SPARC also attenuated the cell migration and contractile phenotype of HPFs. SPARC could bind to TGF-βRII under TGF-β1 treatment. However, knockdown of SPARC did not affect the proliferation and apoptosis of HPFs. CONCLUSION SPARC knockdown attenuated the fibrotic effect induced by TGF-β1 at least in part by inactivating the Smad2/3 pathways in HPFs. Therefore, SPARC may be a promising therapeutic target for the treatment of pterygium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianwu Fan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Yangpu Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200090, China; Center for Clinical Research and Translational Medicine, Yangpu Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200090, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Yangpu Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200090, China
| | - Yaping Jiang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Yangpu Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200090, China
| | - Li Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Yangpu Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200090, China
| | - Minjie Sheng
- Department of Ophthalmology, Yangpu Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200090, China.
| | - Yihui Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Yangpu Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200090, China.
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Targeting matrix stiffness-induced activation of retinal pigment epithelial cells through the RhoA/YAP pathway ameliorates proliferative vitreoretinopathy. Exp Eye Res 2021; 209:108677. [PMID: 34147507 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2021.108677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Revised: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to investigate whether excessive extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition-induced mechanical matrix stiffness plays a key role in promoting retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cell activation and the subsequent development of proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR). Human ARPE-19 cells were cultured on either 50 kappa (stiff) or 0.5 kappa (soft) gel-coated coverslips. Reverse and knockdown experiments were carried out to establish a model of matrix stiffness-induced activation in ARPE-19 cells in vitro. A PVR mouse model was established by the intravitreal injection of dispase. The effects of RhoA/YAP signalling blockade on matrix stiffness-induced ARPE-19 cell activation and PVR-induced retinal fibrosis were determined by using a combination of the Yes-associated protein (YAP) inhibitor verteporfin and the RhoA inhibitor C3 exoenzyme. Matrix stiffness stimulated YAP nuclear translocation and expression in ARPE-19 cells. The effect of YAP activation was dependent on F-actin cytoskeleton polymerization and RhoA activity, forming the RhoA/YAP signalling pathway. Upstream pharmacological blockade of RhoA by C3 exoenzyme or downstream blockade of YAP by verteporfin reduced the invasion, migration, and MMP expression of ARPE-19 cells and collagen gel contraction. Furthermore, blockade of RhoA/YAP signalling reduced PVR-induced retinal fibrogenesis and inhibited the TGF-β/Smad pathway in vivo. RhoA/YAP signalling modulates matrix stiffness-induced activation of ARPE-19 cells. Targeting this signalling pathway could alleviate PVR-induced retinal fibrosis and suggests attractive novel therapeutic strategies for intervening in the progression of PVR.
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11
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Ghanemi A, Yoshioka M, St-Amand J. Secreted Protein Acidic and Rich in Cysteine as A Regeneration Factor: Beyond the Tissue Repair. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:life11010038. [PMID: 33435573 PMCID: PMC7827108 DOI: 10.3390/life11010038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Revised: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Diverse pathologies (inflammation, tissues injuries, cancer, etc.) and physiological conditions (obesity, physical activity, etc.) induce the expression/secretion of the matricellular protein, secrete protein acidic and rich in cysteine (SPARC). SPARC contributes to the creation of an environment that is suitable for tissue regeneration through a variety of roles, including metabolic homeostasis, inflammation reduction, extracellular matrix remodeling and collagen maturation. Such a homeostatic environment optimizes tissue regeneration and improves tissues’ repair ability. These properties that SPARC has within the regeneration contexts could have a variety of applications, such as in obesity, cancer, sarcopenia, diabetes and bioengineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdelaziz Ghanemi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Laval University, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada;
- Functional Genomics Laboratory, Endocrinology and Nephrology Axis, CHU de Québec-Université Laval Research Center, Québec, QC G1V 4G2, Canada;
| | - Mayumi Yoshioka
- Functional Genomics Laboratory, Endocrinology and Nephrology Axis, CHU de Québec-Université Laval Research Center, Québec, QC G1V 4G2, Canada;
| | - Jonny St-Amand
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Laval University, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada;
- Functional Genomics Laboratory, Endocrinology and Nephrology Axis, CHU de Québec-Université Laval Research Center, Québec, QC G1V 4G2, Canada;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: + 1-(418)-525-4444 (ext. 46448); Fax: +1-(418)-654-2298
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12
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Zhang D, Xu J, Yang P, Wen Y, He H, Li J, Liang J, Zheng Y, Zhang Z, Wang X, Yu X, Wang E, Lei C, Chen H, Huang Y. Genetic variant of SPARC gene and its association with growth traits in Chinese cattle. Arch Anim Breed 2020; 63:31-37. [PMID: 32166110 PMCID: PMC7053509 DOI: 10.5194/aab-63-31-2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2019] [Accepted: 10/22/2019] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
SPARC is a cysteine-rich acidic secreted protein. It is a non-collagen component of bone, which is widely distributed in humans and animals and plays an important role. SPARC has been found in a variety of human cancers (breast cancer, stomach cancer, ovarian cancer, etc.) and diabetes-related research. Especially the muscle and fat metabolism are closely related. In this study, we used a DNA pool to detect a new SNP site (g.12454T > C). A total of 616 samples of four breeds of Qinchuan cattle (QC, n = 176 ), Xianan cattle (XN, n = 160 ), Pinan cattle (PN, n = 136 ) and Jiaxian cattle (JX, n = 144 ) were analyzed and identified with ARMS-PCR. In addition, we correlated SNP with growth traits and showed significant correlation with growth traits such as rump length, hip width, and body length ( p < 0.05 ). Moreover, we tested the SPARC gene expression level in different tissues belonging to XN adult cattle ( n = 3 ) and found its high expression in muscle tissues (relative to the kidney). Further, we found the SNP is able to increase the SPARC expression level in skeletal muscle ( n = 12 ). According to statistical data, this SNP site may be applied to a molecular marker of an early marker-assisted selection for early growth of beef cattle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danyang Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiawei Xu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, People's Republic of China
| | - Peng Yang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, People's Republic of China
| | - Yifan Wen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, People's Republic of China
| | - Hua He
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, People's Republic of China.,College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiaxiao Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, People's Republic of China
| | - Juntong Liang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, People's Republic of China
| | - Yining Zheng
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, People's Republic of China
| | - Zijing Zhang
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science, Henan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou, Henan, 45002, People's Republic of China
| | - Xianwei Wang
- Henan Provincial Animal Husbandry General Station, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450008, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiang Yu
- Henan Animal Health Supervision Institute, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450003, People's Republic of China
| | - Eryao Wang
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science, Henan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou, Henan, 45002, People's Republic of China
| | - Chuzhao Lei
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, People's Republic of China
| | - Hong Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, People's Republic of China
| | - Yongzhen Huang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, People's Republic of China
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13
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Romano MR, Cennamo G, Montorio D, Del Prete S, Ferrara M, Cennamo G. Correlation between various trace elements and ultramicroscopic structure of epiretinal macular membranes and glial cells. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0204497. [PMID: 30265684 PMCID: PMC6162081 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0204497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2018] [Accepted: 09/10/2018] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Elements such as zinc, iron, copper, sulphur and phosphorus have been identified in retinal layers and implicated in vital retinal functions. Regarding mineral composition of epiretinal membranes (ERMs), literature is lacking. This study aimed to analyze both mineral composition and anatomical ultrastructure of ERMs to clarify the pathophysiology of this disease. METHODS Twenty ERMs (10 diabetic ERMs and 10 idiopathic ERMs) from 20 patients were harvested during pars plana vitrectomy. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) was used to investigate the anatomical ultrastructure of the peeled ERMs. Mineral composition was analyzed using energy-dispersive spectrometry (EDS). The most frequent elements were evaluated in relation to appearance of ERMs analyzed at SEM and at OCT images. RESULTS Sulphur was the most frequent element found (in 80% of the samples), followed by sodium (50%) and phosphorus (45%). The presence of these elements was not significantly different between diabetic and idiopathic ERMs (P >0.05). Using SEM we found a folded tissue in all ERMs, except in 4 ERMs, where we observed only a smooth tissue. There was a trend of sodium to be more frequent in ERMs with folded layers at SEM examination. CONCLUSIONS Several elements were identified in ERMs, and sulphur, sodium and phosphorus were the most frequent ones. This finding may help to understand their role in the physiopatology of epiretinal proliferation and in glial activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario R. Romano
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele—Milan, Italy
- * E-mail:
| | - Gilda Cennamo
- Department of Public Health, University Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Daniela Montorio
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive and Odontostomatological Science, University Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Salvatore Del Prete
- Interdepartment Electron Microscope Centre, University Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Mariantonia Ferrara
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive and Odontostomatological Science, University Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Giovanni Cennamo
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive and Odontostomatological Science, University Federico II, Naples, Italy
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14
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Wang J, Fu M, Liu K, Wang N, Zhang Z, Zhou M, Xu X. Matricellular Proteins Play a Potential Role in Acute Primary Angle Closure. Curr Eye Res 2018; 43:771-777. [PMID: 29558210 DOI: 10.1080/02713683.2018.1449222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To quantify levels of matricellular proteins in aqueous humor samples from acute primary angle closure (APAC) and non-glaucomatous cataract eyes and investigate their correlation with intraocular pressure (IOP) fluctuation. MATERIALS AND METHODS Aqueous humor samples were collected from 63 eyes including 29 current APAC eyes, 12 previous APAC eyes, and 22 cataract eyes. Concentrations of four main matricellular proteins (SPARC, tenascin-C, thrombospondin-2, and osteopontin) were measured using multiplexed immunoassay kits. Correlations between matricellular proteins and age, sex, and IOP were then detected using Spearman's rank correlation coefficient. RESULTS The levels of SPARC, thrombospondin-2, and osteopontin were significantly elevated in the APAC group as compared to the cataract group (p < 0.001, p < 0.001, and p = 0.009, respectively). Further separation of the APAC group into current and previous APAC groups showed that only the differences of SPARC and thrombospondin-2 between the current APAC and cataract groups were significant (both p < 0.001). All four matricellular proteins were found to have a positive correlation with IOP in the current APAC group but no correlation was found in the previous APAC or cataract groups. CONCLUSIONS The levels of matricellular proteins were significantly elevated in the current APAC eyes and positively correlated to IOP. Further studies are necessary to investigate the molecular mechanisms and histological evidence of pathogenesis in matricellular proteins in APAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Wang
- a Department of Ophthalmology , Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine , Shanghai , China.,b Shanghai Key Laboratory of Fundus Disease , Shanghai , China
| | - Mingshui Fu
- a Department of Ophthalmology , Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine , Shanghai , China.,b Shanghai Key Laboratory of Fundus Disease , Shanghai , China
| | - Kun Liu
- a Department of Ophthalmology , Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine , Shanghai , China.,b Shanghai Key Laboratory of Fundus Disease , Shanghai , China
| | - Ning Wang
- a Department of Ophthalmology , Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine , Shanghai , China.,b Shanghai Key Laboratory of Fundus Disease , Shanghai , China
| | - Zhihua Zhang
- a Department of Ophthalmology , Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine , Shanghai , China.,b Shanghai Key Laboratory of Fundus Disease , Shanghai , China
| | - Minwen Zhou
- a Department of Ophthalmology , Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine , Shanghai , China.,b Shanghai Key Laboratory of Fundus Disease , Shanghai , China
| | - Xun Xu
- a Department of Ophthalmology , Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine , Shanghai , China.,b Shanghai Key Laboratory of Fundus Disease , Shanghai , China
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15
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Cehofski LJ, Kruse A, Magnusdottir SO, Alsing AN, Nielsen JE, Kirkeby S, Honoré B, Vorum H. Dexamethasone intravitreal implant downregulates PDGFR-α and upregulates caveolin-1 in experimental branch retinal vein occlusion. Exp Eye Res 2018; 171:174-182. [PMID: 29505751 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2018.02.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2017] [Revised: 02/14/2018] [Accepted: 02/28/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
A dexamethasone (DEX) intravitreal implant (OZURDEX) provides an effective treatment of inflammation secondary to branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO). Retinal proteome changes which mediate the beneficial effects of the implant remain poorly understood. To study retinal proteome changes in BRVO following an intervention with a DEX implant this study combined an experimental model of BRVO with proteomic techniques. In eight Danish Landrace pigs experimental BRVO was induced in both eyes using argon laser. After inducing BRVO a DEX implant was injected into the right eye of each animal while the left control eye was given an identical injection without an implant. Fifteen days after BRVO and DEX implant intervention the retinas were excised and analyzed with tandem mass tag based mass spectrometry. A total of 26 significantly changed proteins were identified. DEX intervention reduced the retinal levels of platelet-derived growth factor receptor-α (PDGFR-α) and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR-2). DEX treatment resulted in increased levels of caveolin-1, peptidyl-prolyl cis-trans isomerase FKBP5 and transgelin. Changes in PDGFR-α and caveolin-1 were confirmed with immunohistochemistry. In BRVO treated with the DEX implant a strong reaction for caveolin-1 was observed in the innermost retinal layers. DEX implant intervention may inhibit PDGF signaling by decreasing the retinal level of PDGFR-α while an increased content of caveolin-1 may help maintain the integrity of the blood-retinal barrier.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lasse Jørgensen Cehofski
- Department of Ophthalmology, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark; Biomedical Research Laboratory, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark.
| | - Anders Kruse
- Department of Ophthalmology, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Sigriður Olga Magnusdottir
- Biomedical Research Laboratory, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Alexander Nørgård Alsing
- Department of Ophthalmology, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark; Biomedical Research Laboratory, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | | | - Svend Kirkeby
- Department of Odontology, School of Dentistry, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Bent Honoré
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark; Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Henrik Vorum
- Department of Ophthalmology, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
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16
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Al-Dabbagh N, Al-Shahrani H, Al-Dohayan N, Mustafa M, Arfin M, Al-Asmari AK. The SPARC-related modular calcium binding protein 2 ( SMOC2) gene polymorphism in primary glaucoma: a case-control study. Clin Ophthalmol 2017; 11:549-555. [PMID: 28356709 PMCID: PMC5367611 DOI: 10.2147/opth.s126459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary glaucomas are among the most common eye diseases that may potentially result in bilateral blindness. Both genetics and environmental factors are reported to be involved in the etiology of primary glaucomas. Secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine (SPARC)-related modular calcium binding protein 2 (SMOC2) is a matricellular glycoprotein encoded by the SMOC2 gene and known to regulate the expression of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), which play an important role in the pathogenesis of primary glaucomas. The frequencies of alleles and genotypes of SMOC2 variants were examined in 406 Saudi subjects, including primary open angle glaucoma (POAG, n=140) and primary angle closure glaucoma (PACG, n=64) patients and 202 matched healthy controls using the polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) technique. Genotyping of SMOC2 polymorphism (rs13208776) revealed a significantly higher frequency of the heterozygous genotype GA (P<0.01) and a lower frequency of wild type GG genotype (P=0.05) in glaucoma patients compared to the controls. Upon stratification of the patients on the basis of types of glaucoma, PACG patients had a significantly higher frequency of GA genotype as compared to the controls (P<0.01), whereas there was no significant difference between the POAG patient and control groups in frequencies of SMOC2 alleles and genotypes. Further, there was no significant difference in frequency distribution of alleles and genotypes between male and female patients. This study indicates that the GA genotype of SMOC2 (G>A) polymorphism is significantly associated with PACG and may be a risk factor. However, further large-scale studies in the Saudi population as well as in other ethnic populations are needed to confirm this association.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Md Mustafa
- Research Center, Prince Sultan Military Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Misbahul Arfin
- Research Center, Prince Sultan Military Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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