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Tan Q, Li F, Zhang K, Liu Z, Tian Y, Zhu T. Proteomics Analysis of Knee Subchondral Bone Identifies Differentially Expressed Proteins Associated with Osteoarthritis. J Proteome Res 2024; 23:738-748. [PMID: 38206579 PMCID: PMC10846524 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jproteome.3c00584] [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: 09/10/2023] [Revised: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent debilitating whole-joint disorder. Currently, a growing number of proteomic studies have been performed to evaluate molecular biomarkers in several tissues from OA patients; however, little is known about the protein profiles in subchondral bone of OA. In this study, proteomic analysis was performed on subchondral bone from patients with OA to identify differentially expressed proteins (DEPs). Bioinformatics tools were used to further investigate these DEPs. Thereafter, DEPs were validated in the samples from patients with OA, as well as in bilateral ovariectomy-induced OA (OVX-OA) rats using immunohistochemistry. A comprehensive subchondral bone proteome profile of patients with OA was constructed. Additionally, biological information analysis showed that a majority of DEPs participated in the dysregulation of the complement and coagulation cascades. The validation experiments suggested that SerpinA5, the protein involved in the complement and coagulation cascades, was significantly increased in severely damaged subchondral bone of patients with OA compared to the control group. Furthermore, the increase of SerpinA5 in OVX-OA rats compared to control rats was also confirmed. Our results indicated that the dysregulation of coagulation and complement pathways plays a role in the progression of OA, and it provides a promising therapeutic target of OA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qizhao Tan
- Department
of Orthopaedics, Peking University Third
Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
- Engineering
Research Center of Bone and Joint Precision Medicine, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Feng Li
- Department
of Orthopaedics, Peking University Third
Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
- Engineering
Research Center of Bone and Joint Precision Medicine, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Ke Zhang
- Department
of Orthopaedics, Peking University Third
Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
- Department
of Orthopaedics, Peking University International
Hospital, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Zhongjun Liu
- Department
of Orthopaedics, Peking University Third
Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Yun Tian
- Department
of Orthopaedics, Peking University Third
Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
- Engineering
Research Center of Bone and Joint Precision Medicine, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Tengjiao Zhu
- Department
of Orthopaedics, Peking University Third
Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
- Engineering
Research Center of Bone and Joint Precision Medicine, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100191, China
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2
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Yuan S, Guo D, Liang X, Zhang L, Zhang Q, Xie D. Relaxin in fibrotic ligament diseases: Its regulatory role and mechanism. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1131481. [PMID: 37123405 PMCID: PMC10134402 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1131481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibrotic ligament diseases (FLDs) are diseases caused by the pathological accumulation of periarticular fibrotic tissue, leading to functional disability around joint and poor life quality. Relaxin (RLX) has been reported to be involved in the development of fibrotic lung and liver diseases. Previous studies have shown that RLX can block pro-fibrotic process by reducing the excess extracellular matrix (ECM) formation and accelerating collagen degradation in vitro and in vivo. Recent studies have shown that RLX can attenuate connective tissue fibrosis by suppressing TGF-β/Smads signaling pathways to inhibit the activation of myofibroblasts. However, the specific roles and mechanisms of RLX in FLDs remain unclear. Therefore, in this review, we confirmed the protective effect of RLX in FLDs and summarized its mechanism including cells, key cytokines and signaling pathways involved. In this article, we outline the potential therapeutic role of RLX and look forward to the application of RLX in the clinical translation of FLDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Yuan
- Department of Joint Surgery and Sports Medicine, Center for Orthopedic Surgery, Orthopedic Hospital of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Dong Guo
- Department of Joint Surgery and Sports Medicine, Center for Orthopedic Surgery, Orthopedic Hospital of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xinzhi Liang
- Department of Joint Surgery and Sports Medicine, Center for Orthopedic Surgery, Orthopedic Hospital of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Luhui Zhang
- Department of Joint Surgery and Sports Medicine, Center for Orthopedic Surgery, Orthopedic Hospital of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qun Zhang
- Good Clinical Practice Development, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Bone and Joint Degeneration Diseases, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Denghui Xie, ; Qun Zhang,
| | - Denghui Xie
- Department of Joint Surgery and Sports Medicine, Center for Orthopedic Surgery, Orthopedic Hospital of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Bone and Joint Degeneration Diseases, Academy of Orthopedics, Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- *Correspondence: Denghui Xie, ; Qun Zhang,
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3
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Wieczfinska J, Pawliczak R. Relaxin Affects Airway Remodeling Genes Expression through Various Signal Pathways Connected with Transcription Factors. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23158413. [PMID: 35955554 PMCID: PMC9368845 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23158413] [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: 06/16/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis is one of the parameters of lung tissue remodeling in asthma. Relaxin has emerged as a natural suppressor of fibrosis, showing efficacy in the prevention of a multiple models of fibrosis. Therefore, the aim of this study was to analyze the aptitudes of relaxin, in the context of its immunomodulatory properties, in the development of airway remodeling. WI-38 and HFL1 fibroblasts, as well as epithelial cells (NHBE), were incubated with relaxin. Additionally, remodeling conditions were induced with two serotypes of rhinovirus (HRV). The expression of the genes contributing to airway remodeling were determined. Moreover, NF-κB, c-Myc, and STAT3 were knocked down to analyze the pathways involved in airway remodeling. Relaxin decreased the mRNA expression of collagen I and TGF-β and increased the expression of MMP-9 (p < 0.05). Relaxin also decreased HRV-induced expression of collagen I and α-SMA (p < 0.05). Moreover, all the analyzed transcription factors—NF-κB, c-Myc, and STAT3—have shown its influence on the pathways connected with relaxin action. Though relaxin requires further study, our results suggest that this natural compound offers great potential for inhibition of the development, or even reversing, of factors related to airway remodeling. The presented contribution of the investigated transcription factors in this process additionally increases its potential possibilities through a variety of its activity pathways.
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Vierhout M, Ayoub A, Naiel S, Yazdanshenas P, Revill SD, Reihani A, Dvorkin-Gheva A, Shi W, Ask K. Monocyte and macrophage derived myofibroblasts: Is it fate? A review of the current evidence. Wound Repair Regen 2021; 29:548-562. [PMID: 34107123 DOI: 10.1111/wrr.12946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Revised: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Since the discovery of the myofibroblast over 50 years ago, much has been learned about its role in wound healing and fibrosis. Its origin, however, remains controversial, with a number of progenitor cells being proposed. Macrophage-myofibroblast transition (MMT) is a recent term coined in 2014 that describes the mechanism through which macrophages, derived from circulating monocytes originating in the bone marrow, transformed into myofibroblasts and contributed to kidney fibrosis. Over the past years, several studies have confirmed the existence of MMT in various systems, suggesting that MMT could potentially occur in all fibrotic conditions and constitute a reasonable therapeutic target to prevent progressive fibrotic disease. In this perspective, we examined recent evidence supporting the notion of MMT in both human disease and experimental models across organ systems. Mechanistic insight from these studies and information from in vitro studies is provided. The findings substantiating plausible MMT showcased the co-expression of macrophage and myofibroblast markers, including CD68 or F4/80 (macrophage) and α-SMA (myofibroblast), in fibroblast-like cells. Furthermore, fate-mapping experiments in murine models exhibiting myeloid-derived myofibroblasts in the tissue further provide direct evidence for MMT. Additionally, we provide some evidence from single cell RNA sequencing experiments confirmed by fluorescent in situ hybridisation studies, showing monocyte/macrophage and myofibroblast markers co-expressed in lung tissue from patients with fibrotic lung disease. In conclusion, MMT is likely a significant contributor to myofibroblast formation in wound healing and fibrotic disease across organ systems. Circulating precursors including monocytes and the molecular mechanisms governing MMT could constitute valid targets and provide insight for the development of novel antifibrotic therapies; however, further understanding of these processes is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan Vierhout
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University and The Research Institute of St. Joe's Hamilton, Firestone Institute for Respiratory Health, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Anmar Ayoub
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University and The Research Institute of St. Joe's Hamilton, Firestone Institute for Respiratory Health, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Safaa Naiel
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University and The Research Institute of St. Joe's Hamilton, Firestone Institute for Respiratory Health, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Parichehr Yazdanshenas
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University and The Research Institute of St. Joe's Hamilton, Firestone Institute for Respiratory Health, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Spencer D Revill
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University and The Research Institute of St. Joe's Hamilton, Firestone Institute for Respiratory Health, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Amir Reihani
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University and The Research Institute of St. Joe's Hamilton, Firestone Institute for Respiratory Health, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Anna Dvorkin-Gheva
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, McMaster Immunology Research Centre, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Wei Shi
- Department of Surgery, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Kjetil Ask
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University and The Research Institute of St. Joe's Hamilton, Firestone Institute for Respiratory Health, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, McMaster Immunology Research Centre, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
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5
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Neophytou CM, Panagi M, Stylianopoulos T, Papageorgis P. The Role of Tumor Microenvironment in Cancer Metastasis: Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Opportunities. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13092053. [PMID: 33922795 PMCID: PMC8122975 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13092053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 126] [Impact Index Per Article: 42.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Metastasis, the process by which cancer cells escape primary tumor site and colonize distant organs, is responsible for most cancer-related deaths. The tumor microenvironment (TME), comprises different cell types, including immune cells and cancer-associated fibroblasts, as well as structural elements, such as collagen and hyaluronan that constitute the extracellular matrix (ECM). Intratumoral interactions between the cellular and structural components of the TME regulate the aggressiveness, and dissemination of malignant cells and promote immune evasion. At the secondary site, the TME also facilitates escape from dormancy to enhance metastatic tumor outgrowth. Moreover, the ECM applies mechanical forces on tumors that contribute to hypoxia and cancer cell invasiveness whereas also hinders drug delivery and efficacy in both primary and metastatic sites. In this review, we summarize the latest developments regarding the role of the TME in cancer progression and discuss ongoing efforts to remodel the TME to stop metastasis in its tracks. Abstract The tumor microenvironment (TME) regulates essential tumor survival and promotion functions. Interactions between the cellular and structural components of the TME allow cancer cells to become invasive and disseminate from the primary site to distant locations, through a complex and multistep metastatic cascade. Tumor-associated M2-type macrophages have growth-promoting and immunosuppressive functions; mesenchymal cells mass produce exosomes that increase the migratory ability of cancer cells; cancer associated fibroblasts (CAFs) reorganize the surrounding matrix creating migration-guiding tracks for cancer cells. In addition, the tumor extracellular matrix (ECM) exerts determinant roles in disease progression and cancer cell migration and regulates therapeutic responses. The hypoxic conditions generated at the primary tumor force cancer cells to genetically and/or epigenetically adapt in order to survive and metastasize. In the circulation, cancer cells encounter platelets, immune cells, and cytokines in the blood microenvironment that facilitate their survival and transit. This review discusses the roles of different cellular and structural tumor components in regulating the metastatic process, targeting approaches using small molecule inhibitors, nanoparticles, manipulated exosomes, and miRNAs to inhibit tumor invasion as well as current and future strategies to remodel the TME and enhance treatment efficacy to block the detrimental process of metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christiana M. Neophytou
- European University Research Center, Nicosia 2404, Cyprus;
- Tumor Microenvironment, Metastasis and Experimental Therapeutics Laboratory, Basic and Translational Cancer Research Center, Department of Life Sciences, European University Cyprus, Nicosia 1516, Cyprus
| | - Myrofora Panagi
- Cancer Biophysics Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Cyprus, Nicosia 2109, Cyprus; (M.P.); (T.S.)
| | - Triantafyllos Stylianopoulos
- Cancer Biophysics Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Cyprus, Nicosia 2109, Cyprus; (M.P.); (T.S.)
| | - Panagiotis Papageorgis
- European University Research Center, Nicosia 2404, Cyprus;
- Tumor Microenvironment, Metastasis and Experimental Therapeutics Laboratory, Basic and Translational Cancer Research Center, Department of Life Sciences, European University Cyprus, Nicosia 1516, Cyprus
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +357-22-713158
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6
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Zhang Y, Yin N, Sun A, Wu Q, Hu W, Hou X, Zeng X, Zhu M, Liao Y. Transient Receptor Potential Channel 6 Knockout Ameliorates Kidney Fibrosis by Inhibition of Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 8:602703. [PMID: 33520986 PMCID: PMC7843578 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.602703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Kidney fibrosis is generally confirmed to have a significant role in chronic kidney disease, resulting in end-stage kidney failure. Epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) is an important molecular mechanism contributing to fibrosis. Tubular epithelial cells (TEC), the major component of kidney parenchyma, are vulnerable to different types of injuries and are a significant source of myofibroblast by EMT. Furthermore, TRPC6 knockout plays an anti-fibrotic role in ameliorating kidney damage. However, the relationship between TRPC6 and EMT is unknown. In this study, TRPC6−/− and wild-type (WT) mice were subjected to a unilateral ureteric obstruction (UUO) operation. Primary TEC were treated with TGF-β1. Western blot and immunofluorescence data showed that fibrotic injuries alleviated with the inhibition of EMT in TRPC6−/− mice compared to WT mice. The activation of AKT-mTOR and ERK1/2 pathways was down-regulated in the TRPC6−/− mice, while the loss of Na+/K+-ATPase and APQ1 was partially recovered. We conclude that TRPC6 knockout may ameliorate kidney fibrosis by inhibition of EMT through down-regulating the AKT-mTOR and ERK1/2 pathways. This could contribute to the development of effective therapeutic strategies on chronic kidney diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanhong Zhang
- Department of Anatomy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Department of Anatomy, College of Basic Medicine, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China.,Key Laboratory of Neurological Diseases of Ministry of Education, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Nina Yin
- Department of Anatomy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Department of Anatomy, College of Basic Medicine, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Anbang Sun
- Department of Anatomy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Key Laboratory of Neurological Diseases of Ministry of Education, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Qifang Wu
- Department of Anatomy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Key Laboratory of Neurological Diseases of Ministry of Education, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Wenzhu Hu
- Department of Anatomy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Key Laboratory of Neurological Diseases of Ministry of Education, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xin Hou
- Department of Anatomy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Key Laboratory of Neurological Diseases of Ministry of Education, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xixi Zeng
- Department of Anatomy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Key Laboratory of Neurological Diseases of Ministry of Education, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Min Zhu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yanhong Liao
- Department of Anatomy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Key Laboratory of Neurological Diseases of Ministry of Education, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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7
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Hauge A, Rofstad EK. Antifibrotic therapy to normalize the tumor microenvironment. J Transl Med 2020; 18:207. [PMID: 32434573 PMCID: PMC7240990 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-020-02376-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 05/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Most tumors develop abnormal fibrotic regions consisting of fibroblasts, immune cells, and a dense extracellular matrix (ECM) immersed in a viscous interstitial fluid, and an abundant fibrotic tumor microenvironment (TME) is associated with poor outcome of treatment. It has been hypothesized that the treatment of cancer may be improved by interventions aiming to normalize this TME. The approaches used in attempts to normalize the fibrotic TME can be categorized into three strategies of targeted antifibrotic therapy: targeting of components of the ECM, targeting of the producers of the ECM components-the activated cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), and targeting of the signaling pathways activating CAFs. To target the ECM, enzymes against components of the ECM have been used, including collagenase, relaxin, hyaluronidase, and lyxyl oxidase. Targeting of CAFs have been investigated by using agents aiming to eliminate or reprogram CAFs. CAFs are activated primarily by transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), hedgehog, or focal adhesion kinase signaling, and several agents have been used to target these signaling pathways, including angiotensin II receptor I blockers (e.g., losartan) to inhibit the TGF-β pathway. Taken together, these studies have revealed that antifibrotic therapy is a two-edged sword: while some studies suggest enhanced response to treatment after antifibrotic therapy, others suggest that antifibrotic therapy may lead to increased tumor growth, metastasis, and impaired outcome of treatment. There are several possible explanations of these conflicting observations. Most importantly, tumors contain different subpopulations of CAFs, and while some subpopulations may promote tumor growth and metastasis, others may inhibit malignant progression. Furthermore, the outcome of antifibrotic therapy may depend on stage of disease, duration of treatment, treatment-induced activation of alternative profibrotic signaling pathways, and treatment-induced recruitment of tumor-supporting immune cells. Nevertheless, losartan-induced suppression of TGF-β signaling appears to be a particularly promising strategy. Losartan is a widely prescribed antihypertensive drug and highly advantageous therapeutic effects have been observed after losartan treatment of pancreatic cancer. However, improved understanding of the mechanisms governing the development of fibrosis in tumors is needed before safe antifibrotic treatments can be established.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anette Hauge
- Group of Radiation Biology and Tumor Physiology, Department of Radiation Biology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Einar K Rofstad
- Group of Radiation Biology and Tumor Physiology, Department of Radiation Biology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.
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8
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Ng HH, Shen M, Samuel CS, Schlossmann J, Bennett RG. Relaxin and extracellular matrix remodeling: Mechanisms and signaling pathways. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2019; 487:59-65. [PMID: 30660699 PMCID: PMC7384500 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2019.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2018] [Revised: 01/15/2019] [Accepted: 01/16/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Fibrosis is associated with accumulation of excess fibrillar collagen, leading to tissue dysfunction. Numerous processes, including inflammation, myofibroblast activation, and endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition, play a role in the establishment and progression of fibrosis. Relaxin is a peptide hormone with well-known antifibrotic properties that result from its action on numerous cellular targets to reduce fibrosis. Relaxin activates multiple signal transduction pathways as a mechanism to suppress inflammation and myofibroblast activation in fibrosis. In this review, the general mechanisms underlying fibrotic diseases are described, along with the current state of knowledge regarding cellular targets of relaxin. Finally, an overview is presented summarizing the signaling pathways activated by relaxin and other relaxin family peptide receptor agonists to suppress fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hooi Hooi Ng
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA.
| | - Matthew Shen
- Cardiovascular Disease Theme, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia.
| | - Chrishan S Samuel
- Cardiovascular Disease Theme, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia.
| | - Jens Schlossmann
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Institute of Pharmacy, University Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany.
| | - Robert G Bennett
- Research Service, VA Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, Departments of Internal Medicine and Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA.
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9
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Ko JH, Kang YM, Yang JH, Kim JS, Lee WJ, Kim SH, Yang IH, Moon SH. Regulation of MMP and TIMP expression in synovial fibroblasts from knee osteoarthritis with flexion contracture using adenovirus-mediated relaxin gene therapy. Knee 2019; 26:317-329. [PMID: 30770167 DOI: 10.1016/j.knee.2019.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2017] [Revised: 12/07/2018] [Accepted: 01/17/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of relaxin (RLN) expression on fibrosis inhibition in synovial fibroblasts. MATERIALS AND METHODS Tissue cells from patients with knee osteoarthritis and >30° flexion contractures were utilised. Synovial fibroblasts were activated by TGF-β1 (two nanograms per millilitre) and then exposed to Ad-RLN as a therapeutic gene, adenovirus-lacZ construct as a marker gene, and SB505124 as an inhibitor for TGF-β1 signal for 48 h. The mRNA expression levels of collagens and MMPs were analysed by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. Also, fibronectin, phosphorylation of Smad2 and ERK1/2, alpha smooth muscle actin, TIMP-1, TIMP-2, MMP-1 and MMP-13 levels were estimated using western blotting, and the total collagen synthesis was assayed. RESULTS Ad-RLN-transduced synovial fibroblasts demonstrated 17%, 13%, and 48% reduction in collagen I, III and IV mRNA expression levels, respectively, and a 40% decrease in MMP-3, MMP-8, 20% decrease in MMP-9, MMP-13 mRNA expression, compared to non-Ad-RLN-transduced cells. In protein expression, Ad-RLN-transduced synovial fibroblasts demonstrated 46% increase in MMP-1, 5% decrease in MMP-2, 51% increase in MMP-9, and 22% increase in MMP-13, compared to non-Ad-RLN-transduced cells. Ad-RLN-transduced synovial fibroblasts showed a 25% decrease in TIMP-1 and 65% decrease in TIMP-2 protein expression at 48h, compared to non-Ad-RLN-transduced cells. Ad-RLN-transduced synovial fibroblasts demonstrated a 45% inhibition of fibronectin in protein expression level and 38% decrease in total collagen synthesis at 48h, compared to non-Ad-RLN-transduced cells. CONCLUSION Relaxin expression exerted anti-fibrogenic effects on synovial fibroblasts from patients with knee osteoarthritis and flexion contractures. Therefore, relaxin could be an alternative therapeutic agent during the initial stage of osteoarthritis with flexion contracture by exerting its anti-fibrogenic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jae Han Ko
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Yonsei Barun Orthopaedic Surgery Clinic, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Yonsei University, College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Mi Kang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Yonsei University, College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Ho Yang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Yonsei University, College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji Sup Kim
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Yonsei University, College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Catholic Kwandong University College of Medicine, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Won Jai Lee
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Yonsei University, College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Ho Kim
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Yonsei University, College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ick Hwan Yang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Yonsei University, College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong Hwan Moon
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Yonsei University, College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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10
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Bathgate RA, Kocan M, Scott DJ, Hossain MA, Good SV, Yegorov S, Bogerd J, Gooley PR. The relaxin receptor as a therapeutic target – perspectives from evolution and drug targeting. Pharmacol Ther 2018; 187:114-132. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2018.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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11
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Lam M, Royce SG, Samuel CS, Bourke JE. Serelaxin as a novel therapeutic opposing fibrosis and contraction in lung diseases. Pharmacol Ther 2018; 187:61-70. [PMID: 29447958 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2018.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The most common therapies for asthma and other chronic lung diseases are anti-inflammatory agents and bronchodilators. While these drugs oppose disease symptoms, they do not reverse established structural changes in the airways and their therapeutic efficacy is reduced with increasing disease severity. The peptide hormone, relaxin, is a Relaxin Family Peptide Receptor 1 (RXFP1) receptor agonist with unique combined effects in the lung that differentiates it from these existing therapies. Relaxin has previously been reported to have cardioprotective effects in acute heart failure as well anti-fibrotic actions in several organs. This review focuses on recent experimental evidence of the beneficial effects of chronic relaxin treatment in animal models of airways disease demonstrating inhibition of airway hyperresponsiveness and reversal of established fibrosis, consistent with potential therapeutic benefit. Of particular interest, accumulating evidence demonstrates that relaxin can also acutely oppose contraction by reducing the release of mast cell-derived bronchoconstrictors and by directly eliciting bronchodilation. When used in combination, chronic and acute treatment with relaxin has been shown to enhance responsiveness to both glucocorticoids and β2-adrenoceptor agonists respectively. While the mechanisms underlying these beneficial actions remain to be fully elucidated, translation of these promising combined preclinical findings is critical in the development of relaxin as a novel alternative or adjunct therapeutic opposing multiple aspects of airway pathology in lung diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maggie Lam
- Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Pharmacology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Simon G Royce
- Department of Medicine, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Chrishan S Samuel
- Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Pharmacology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jane E Bourke
- Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Pharmacology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia.
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Marshall SA, McGuane JT, Soh YM, Gehring HM, Simpson E, Parry LJ. Abnormal extracellular matrix remodelling in the cervix of pregnant relaxin-deficient mice is not associated with reduced matrix metalloproteinase expression or activity. Reprod Fertil Dev 2018. [DOI: 10.1071/rd17544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Relaxin regulates cervical extracellular matrix (ECM) remodelling during pregnancy by modifying collagen and other ECM molecules by unknown mechanisms. We hypothesised that abnormal collagen remodelling in the cervix of pregnant relaxin-deficient (Rln1−/−) mice is due to excessive collagen (Col1a1 and Col3a1) and decreased matrix metalloproteinases (Mmp2, Mmp9, Mmp13 and Mmp7) and oestrogen receptors (Esr1 and Esr2). Quantitative polymerase chain reaction, gelatinase zymography, MMP activity assays and histological staining evaluated changes in ECM in pregnant wildtype (Rln1+/+) and Rln1−/− mice. Cervical Col1a1, Col3a1 and total collagen increased in Rln1−/− mice and were higher at term compared with Rln1+/+ mice. This was not correlated with a decrease in gelatinase (Mmp2, Mmp9) expression or activity, Mmp7 or Mmp13 expression, which were all significantly higher in Rln1−/− mice. In late pregnancy, circulating MMP2 and MMP9 were unchanged. Esr1 expression was highest in Rln1+/+ and Rln1−/− mice in late pregnancy, coinciding with a decrease in Esr2 in Rln1+/+ but not Rln1−/− mice. The relaxin receptor (Rxfp1) decreased slightly in late-pregnant Rln1+/+ mice, but was significantly higher in Rln1−/− mice. In summary, relaxin deficiency results in increased cervical collagen in late pregnancy, which is not explained by a reduction in Mmp expression or activity or decreased Rxfp1. However, an imbalance between Esr1 and Esr2 may be involved.
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Samuel CS, Royce SG, Hewitson TD, Denton KM, Cooney TE, Bennett RG. Anti-fibrotic actions of relaxin. Br J Pharmacol 2017; 174:962-976. [PMID: 27250825 PMCID: PMC5406285 DOI: 10.1111/bph.13529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2016] [Revised: 05/19/2016] [Accepted: 05/23/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis refers to the hardening or scarring of tissues that usually results from aberrant wound healing in response to organ injury, and its manifestations in various organs have collectively been estimated to contribute to around 45-50% of deaths in the Western world. Despite this, there is currently no effective cure for the tissue structural and functional damage induced by fibrosis-related disorders. Relaxin meets several criteria of an effective anti-fibrotic based on its specific ability to inhibit pro-fibrotic cytokine and/or growth factor-mediated, but not normal/unstimulated, fibroblast proliferation, differentiation and matrix production. Furthermore, relaxin augments matrix degradation through its ability to up-regulate the release and activation of various matrix-degrading matrix metalloproteinases and/or being able to down-regulate tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase activity. Relaxin can also indirectly suppress fibrosis through its other well-known (anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-hypertrophic, anti-apoptotic, angiogenic, wound healing and vasodilator) properties. This review will outline the organ-specific and general anti-fibrotic significance of exogenously administered relaxin and its mechanisms of action that have been documented in various non-reproductive organs such as the cardiovascular system, kidney, lung, liver, skin and tendons. In addition, it will outline the influence of sex on relaxin's anti-fibrotic actions, highlighting its potential as an emerging anti-fibrotic therapeutic. LINKED ARTICLES This article is part of a themed section on Recent Progress in the Understanding of Relaxin Family Peptides and their Receptors. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v174.10/issuetoc.
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Affiliation(s)
- C S Samuel
- Cardiovascular Disease Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of PharmacologyMonash UniversityMelbourneVic.Australia
| | - S G Royce
- Cardiovascular Disease Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of PharmacologyMonash UniversityMelbourneVic.Australia
| | - T D Hewitson
- Department of NephrologyRoyal Melbourne HospitalMelbourneVic.Australia
| | - K M Denton
- Cardiovascular Disease Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of PhysiologyMonash UniversityMelbourneVic.Australia
| | - T E Cooney
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Centre (UPMC) HamotEriePAUSA
| | - R G Bennett
- Research Service 151VA Nebraska‐Western Iowa Health Care SystemOmahaNEUSA
- Department of Internal MedicineUniversity of Nebraska Medical CenterOmahaNEUSA
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Kang YM, Lee HM, Moon SH, Kang H, Choi YR. Relaxin Modulates the Expression of MMPs and TIMPs in Fibroblasts of Patients with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Yonsei Med J 2017; 58:415-422. [PMID: 28120574 PMCID: PMC5290023 DOI: 10.3349/ymj.2017.58.2.415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2016] [Revised: 11/02/2016] [Accepted: 11/10/2016] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to investigate the anti-fibrotic effect of relaxin in subsynovial fibroblasts activated by transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β). MATERIALS AND METHODS To test the anti-fibrotic effect of an adenovirus-relaxin construct (Ad-RLN) on subsynovial fibroblasts in vitro, cells from subsynovial connective tissue of patients with carpal tunnel syndrome were activated with TGF-β1 and exposed to Ad-RLN (as a therapeutic gene) or adenovirus-lacZ construct (as a marker gene) for four hours. Subsynovial fibroblast cultures without adenoviral exposure served as controls. RESULTS We observed induction of gene expressions of collagen I, III and IV, as well as the abatement of alpha-smooth muscle actin (a-SMA) synthesis, Smad2 phosphorylation, and fibronectin at the protein level, in comparison to controls. In addition, protein expressions of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) I was significantly induced, whereas the protein expressions of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases (TIMP) I and IV were reduced due to relaxin expression. CONCLUSION RLN prevents excessive synthesis of extracellular matrix by reducing the expressions of its components, such as fibronectin, a-SMA, and phosphorylated Smad2, by increasing the expression of MMPs; and by decreasing the expression of TIMPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young Mi Kang
- BK21 PLUS Project for Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hwan Mo Lee
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Seong Hwan Moon
- BK21 PLUS Project for Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ho Kang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yun Rak Choi
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
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Zheng G, Cai J, Chen X, Chen L, Ge W, Zhou X, Zhou H. Relaxin Ameliorates Renal Fibrosis and Expression of Endothelial Cell Transition Markers in Rats of Isoproterenol-Induced Heart Failure. Biol Pharm Bull 2017; 40:960-966. [DOI: 10.1248/bpb.b16-00882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Gaoshu Zheng
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University
| | - Jiejie Cai
- Department of Intensive Care Unit, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University
| | - Xingxing Chen
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University
| | - Lingzhi Chen
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Wenzhou Central Hospital
| | - Wenhua Ge
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University
| | - Xi Zhou
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University
| | - Hao Zhou
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University
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To exploit the tumor microenvironment: Since the EPR effect fails in the clinic, what is the future of nanomedicine? J Control Release 2016; 244:108-121. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2016.11.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 752] [Impact Index Per Article: 94.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2016] [Revised: 10/26/2016] [Accepted: 11/07/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Konopka JA, DeBaun MR, Chang W, Dragoo JL. The Intracellular Effect of Relaxin on Female Anterior Cruciate Ligament Cells. Am J Sports Med 2016; 44:2384-92. [PMID: 27245459 DOI: 10.1177/0363546516646374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Female collegiate athletes with serum relaxin concentrations above 6.0 pg/mL have been shown to have more than 4 times increased risk for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears. However, the intracellular effect of relaxin on ACL cells has not been elucidated. HYPOTHESES The hypotheses were that relaxin binding to receptors on female ACL cells will result in (1) an increase in matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) and decrease in tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP) gene expression, (2) a decrease in collagen and alpha smooth muscle actin (αSMA) expression, (3) inhibition of transforming growth factor β1 (TGFβ1)-induced fibrosis, and (4) an increase in cyclic adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate (cAMP) production and that these changes will not be observed in male ACL cells. STUDY DESIGN Controlled laboratory study. METHODS Ligament cells from ACL tissue were isolated from 7 male and 7 female human donors and expanded in vitro. The cells were incubated with escalating concentrations of relaxin-2, as well as with TGFβ1 or 17β-estradiol in certain groups. Cells were then lysed and analyzed for MMP1 (collagenase-1), MMP3 (stromelysin-1), MMP13 (collagenase-3), TIMP1, type I collagen, type III collagen, and/or αSMA mRNA expression using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Intracellular cAMP levels were assessed via an enzyme-linked immunoassay. RESULTS ACL cells primed with estrogen and treated with 10 ng/mL and 100 ng/mL relaxin illustrated increased MMP1 expression (P = .012 and .006, respectively) and MMP3 expression (P = .005 and .001, respectively). Treatment with 100 ng/mL relaxin decreased αSMA expression (P = .001). When ACL tissue isolated from female donors with a history of oral contraceptive use was excluded from the analysis, 100 ng/mL of relaxin decreased type I collagen (P = .005) and type III collagen (P = .028) expression in cells primed with estrogen. Relaxin exhibited no significant effect on male-derived ACL cells. CONCLUSION Relaxin-2 significantly upregulated intracellular processes in human female ACL cells, but no effect was observed in male cells. Relaxin increased MMP (MMP1 and MMP3) and decreased αSMA and type I and III collagen expression, which may act to alter the structural integrity of the ACL tissue over time. CLINICAL RELEVANCE Female athletes with higher circulating relaxin levels may be more susceptible to ACL injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaclyn A Konopka
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California, USA
| | - Malcolm R DeBaun
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California, USA
| | - Wenteh Chang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California, USA
| | - Jason L Dragoo
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California, USA
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Wetzl V, Schinner E, Kees F, Hofmann F, Faerber L, Schlossmann J. Involvement of Cyclic Guanosine Monophosphate-Dependent Protein Kinase I in Renal Antifibrotic Effects of Serelaxin. Front Pharmacol 2016; 7:195. [PMID: 27462268 PMCID: PMC4940422 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2016.00195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2016] [Accepted: 06/17/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Kidney fibrosis has shown to be ameliorated through the involvement of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) and its dependent protein kinase I (cGKI). Serelaxin, the recombinant form of human relaxin-II, increases cGMP levels and has shown beneficial effects on kidney function in acute heart failure patients. Antifibrotic properties of serelaxin are supposed to be mediated via relaxin family peptide receptor 1 and subsequently enhanced nitric oxide/cGMP to inhibit transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling. This study examines the involvement of cGKI in the antifibrotic signaling of serelaxin. Methods and Results: Kidney fibrosis was induced by unilateral ureteral obstruction in wildtype (WT) and cGKI knock-out (KO) mice. After 7 days, renal antifibrotic effects of serelaxin were assessed. Serelaxin treatment for 7 days significantly increased cGMP in the kidney of WT and cGKI-KO. In WT, renal fibrosis was reduced through decreased accumulation of collagen1A1, total collagen, and fibronectin. The profibrotic connective tissue growth factor as well as myofibroblast differentiation were reduced and matrix metalloproteinases-2 and -9 were positively modulated after treatment. Moreover, Smad2 as well as extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1 (ERK1) phosphorylation were decreased, whereas phosphodiesterase (PDE) 5a phosphorylation was increased. However, these effects were not observed in cGKI-KO. Conclusion: Antifibrotic renal effects of serelaxin are mediated via cGMP/cGKI to inhibit Smad2- and ERK1-dependent TGF-β signaling and increased PDE5a phosphorylation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronika Wetzl
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of RegensburgRegensburg, Germany; Novartis Pharma GmbHNuremberg, Germany
| | - Elisabeth Schinner
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Regensburg Regensburg, Germany
| | - Frieder Kees
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Regensburg Regensburg, Germany
| | - Franz Hofmann
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Technical University of Munich Munich, Germany
| | - Lothar Faerber
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of RegensburgRegensburg, Germany; Novartis Pharma GmbHNuremberg, Germany
| | - Jens Schlossmann
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Regensburg Regensburg, Germany
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Sarwar M, Du XJ, Dschietzig TB, Summers RJ. The actions of relaxin on the human cardiovascular system. Br J Pharmacol 2016; 174:933-949. [PMID: 27239943 DOI: 10.1111/bph.13523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2016] [Revised: 04/01/2016] [Accepted: 04/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The insulin-like peptide relaxin, originally identified as a hormone of pregnancy, is now known to exert a range of pleiotropic effects including vasodilatory, anti-fibrotic, angiogenic, anti-apoptotic and anti-inflammatory effects in both males and females. Relaxin produces these effects by binding to a cognate receptor RXFP1 and activating a variety of signalling pathways including cAMP, cGMP and MAPKs as well as by altering gene expression of TGF-β, MMPs, angiogenic growth factors and endothelin receptors. The peptide has been shown to be effective in halting or reversing many of the adverse effects including fibrosis in animal models of cardiovascular disease including ischaemia/reperfusion injury, myocardial infarction, hypertensive heart disease and cardiomyopathy. Relaxin given to humans is safe and produces favourable haemodynamic changes. Serelaxin, the recombinant form of relaxin, is now in extended phase III clinical trials for the treatment of acute heart failure. Previous clinical studies indicated that a 48 h infusion of relaxin improved 180 day mortality, yet the mechanism underlying this effect is not clear. This article provides an overview of the cellular mechanism of effects of relaxin and summarizes its beneficial actions in animal models and in the clinic. We also hypothesize potential mechanisms for the clinical efficacy of relaxin, identify current knowledge gaps and suggest new ways in which relaxin could be useful therapeutically. LINKED ARTICLES This article is part of a themed section on Recent Progress in the Understanding of Relaxin Family Peptides and their Receptors. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v174.10/issuetoc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohsin Sarwar
- Drug Discovery Biology, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Parkville, Australia
| | - Xiao-Jun Du
- Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Thomas B Dschietzig
- Immundiagnostik AG, Bensheim, Germany.,Campus Mitte, Medical Clinic for Cardiology and Angiology, Charité-University Medicine Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,Relaxera Pharmazeutische Gesellschaft mbH & Co. KG, Bensheim, Germany
| | - Roger J Summers
- Drug Discovery Biology, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Parkville, Australia
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Kim JH, Lee SK, Lee SK, Kim JH, Fredericson M. Relaxin Receptor RXFP1 and RXFP2 Expression in Ligament, Tendon, and Shoulder Joint Capsule of Rats. J Korean Med Sci 2016; 31:983-8. [PMID: 27247510 PMCID: PMC4853680 DOI: 10.3346/jkms.2016.31.6.983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2015] [Accepted: 03/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Numerous musculoskeletal disorders are caused by thickened ligament, tendon stiffness, or fibrosis of joint capsule. Relaxin, a peptide hormone, can exert collagenolytic effect on ligamentous and fibrotic tissues. We hypothesized that local injection of relaxin could be used to treat entrapment neuropathy and adhesive capsulitis. Because hormonal effect depends on the receptor of the hormone on the target cell, it is important to confirm the presence of such hormonal receptor at the target tissue before the hormone therapy is initiated. The aim of this study was to determine whether there were relaxin receptors in the ligament, tendon, and joint capsular tissues of rats and to identify the distribution of relaxin receptors in these tissues. Transverse carpal ligaments (TCLs), inguinal ligaments, anterior cruciate ligaments (ACLs), Achilles tendons, and shoulder joint capsules were obtained from male Wistar rats. Western blot analysis was used to identify relaxin receptor isoforms RXFP1 and RXFP2. The distribution of relaxin receptors was determined by immunohistochemical staining. The RXFP1 isoform was found in all tissues examined. The RXFP2 isoform was present in all tissues but the TCLs. Its expression in ACLs tissues was relatively weak compared to that in other tissues. Our results revealed that RXFP1 and RXFP2 were distributed in distinctly different patterns according to the type of tissue (vascular endothelial cells, fibroblast-like cells) they were identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jae Hyung Kim
- Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Eulji University Hospital and Eulji University School of Medicine, Daejeon, Korea
| | | | - Seong Kyu Lee
- Department of Biochemistry, Eulji University School of Medicine, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Joo Heon Kim
- Department of Pathology, Eulji University School of Medicine, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Michael Fredericson
- Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
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Antifibrotic Actions of Serelaxin – New Roles for an Old Player. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2016; 37:485-497. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2016.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2015] [Revised: 02/16/2016] [Accepted: 02/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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22
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Wang C, Kemp-Harper BK, Kocan M, Ang SY, Hewitson TD, Samuel CS. The Anti-fibrotic Actions of Relaxin Are Mediated Through a NO-sGC-cGMP-Dependent Pathway in Renal Myofibroblasts In Vitro and Enhanced by the NO Donor, Diethylamine NONOate. Front Pharmacol 2016; 7:91. [PMID: 27065874 PMCID: PMC4815292 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2016.00091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2016] [Accepted: 03/21/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The anti-fibrotic hormone, relaxin, has been inferred to disrupt transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1/Smad2 phosphorylation (pSmad2) signal transduction and promote collagen-degrading gelatinase activity via a nitric oxide (NO)-dependent pathway. Here, we determined the extent to which NO, soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) and cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) were directly involved in the anti-fibrotic actions of relaxin using a selective NO scavenger and sGC inhibitor, and comparing and combining relaxin's effects with that of an NO donor. METHODS AND RESULTS Primary renal cortical myofibroblasts isolated from injured rat kidneys were treated with human recombinant relaxin (RLX; 16.8 nM), the NO donor, diethylamine NONOate (DEA/NO; 0.5-5 μM) or the combined effects of RLX (16.8 nM) and DEA/NO (5 μM) over 72 h. The effects of RLX (16.8 nM) and DEA/NO (5 μM) were also evaluated in the presence of the NO scavenger, hydroxocobalamin (HXC; 100 μM) or sGC inhibitor, ODQ (5 μM) over 72 h. Furthermore, the effects of RLX (30 nM), DEA/NO (5 μM) and RLX (30 nM) + DEA/NO (5 μM) on cGMP levels were directly measured, in the presence or absence of ODQ (5 μM). Changes in matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2, MMP-9 (cell media), pSmad2 and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA; a measure myofibroblast differentiation) (cell layer) were assessed by gelatin zymography and Western blotting, respectively. At the highest concentration tested, both RLX and DEA/NO promoted MMP-2 and MMP-9 levels by 25-33%, while inhibiting pSmad2 and α-SMA expression by up to 50% (all p < 0.05 vs. untreated and vehicle-treated cells). However, 5μM of DEA/NO was required to produce the effects seen with 16.8 nM of RLX over 72 h. The anti-fibrotic effects of RLX or DEA/NO alone were completely abrogated by HXC and ODQ (both p < 0.01 vs. RLX alone or DEA/NO alone), but were significantly enhanced when added in combination (all p < 0.05 vs. RLX alone). Additionally, the direct cGMP-promoting effects of RLX, DEA/NO and RLX+DEA/NO (which all increased cGMP levels by 12-16-fold over basal levels; all p < 0.01 vs. vehicle-treated cells) were significantly inhibited by pre-treatment of ODQ (all p < 0.05 vs. the respective treatments alone). CONCLUSION These findings confirmed that RLX mediates its TGF-β1-inhibitory and gelatinase-promoting effects via a NO-sGC-cGMP-dependent pathway, which was additively augmented by co-administration of DEA/NO.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Wang
- Cardiovascular Disease Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Pharmacology, Monash University Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Barbara K Kemp-Harper
- Cardiovascular Disease Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Pharmacology, Monash University Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Martina Kocan
- Drug Discovery Biology, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville VIC, Australia
| | - Sheng Yu Ang
- Drug Discovery Biology, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville VIC, Australia
| | - Tim D Hewitson
- Department of Nephrology, Royal Melbourne Hospital, ParkvilleVIC, Australia; Department of Medicine, Royal Melbourne Hospital, University of MelbourneParkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Chrishan S Samuel
- Cardiovascular Disease Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Pharmacology, Monash University Clayton, VIC, Australia
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Hossain MA, Kocan M, Yao ST, Royce SG, Nair VB, Siwek C, Patil NA, Harrison IP, Rosengren KJ, Selemidis S, Summers RJ, Wade JD, Bathgate RAD, Samuel CS. A single-chain derivative of the relaxin hormone is a functionally selective agonist of the G protein-coupled receptor, RXFP1. Chem Sci 2016; 7:3805-3819. [PMID: 30155023 PMCID: PMC6013806 DOI: 10.1039/c5sc04754d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2015] [Accepted: 02/24/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
A single-chain derivative of the relaxin hormone ameliorates fibrosis without side-effects.
Human gene-2 relaxin (H2 relaxin) is a pleiotropic hormone with powerful vasodilatory and anti-fibrotic properties which has led to its clinical evaluation and provisional FDA approval as a treatment for acute heart failure. The diverse effects of H2 relaxin are mediated via its cognate G protein coupled-receptor (GPCR), Relaxin Family Peptide Receptor (RXFP1), leading to stimulation of a combination of cell signalling pathways that includes cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) and extracellular-signal-regulated kinases (ERK)1/2. However, its complex two-chain (A and B), disulfide-rich insulin-like structure is a limitation to its facile preparation, availability and affordability. Furthermore, its strong activation of cAMP signaling is likely responsible for reported detrimental tumor-promoting actions that may preclude long-term use of this drug for treating human disease. Here we report the design and synthesis of a H2 relaxin B-chain-only analogue, B7-33, which was shown to bind to RXFP1 and preferentially activate the pERK pathway over cAMP in cells that endogenously expressed RXFP1. Thus, B7-33 represents the first functionally selective agonist of the complex GPCR, RXFP1. Importantly, this small peptide agonist prevented or reversed organ fibrosis and dysfunction in three pre-clinical rodent models of heart or lung disease with similar potency to H2 relaxin. The molecular mechanism behind the strong anti-fibrotic actions of B7-33 involved its activation of RXFP1-angiotensin II type 2 receptor heterodimers that induced selective downstream signaling of pERK1/2 and the collagen-degrading enzyme, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2. Furthermore, in contrast to H2 relaxin, B7-33 did not promote prostate tumor growth in vivo. Our results represent the first known example of the minimisation of a two-chain cyclic insulin-like peptide to a single-chain linear peptide that retains potent beneficial agonistic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Akhter Hossain
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health , The University of Melbourne , Victoria 3010 , Australia . ; ; .,School of Chemistry , The University of Melbourne , Victoria 3010 , Australia
| | - Martina Kocan
- Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences , Monash University , Victoria , Australia
| | - Song T Yao
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health , The University of Melbourne , Victoria 3010 , Australia . ; ;
| | - Simon G Royce
- Cardiovascular Disease Program , Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Pharmacology , Monash University , Victoria , Australia .
| | - Vinojini B Nair
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health , The University of Melbourne , Victoria 3010 , Australia . ; ; .,School of Chemistry , The University of Melbourne , Victoria 3010 , Australia
| | - Christopher Siwek
- Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences , Monash University , Victoria , Australia
| | - Nitin A Patil
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health , The University of Melbourne , Victoria 3010 , Australia . ; ; .,School of Chemistry , The University of Melbourne , Victoria 3010 , Australia
| | - Ian P Harrison
- Cardiovascular Disease Program , Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Pharmacology , Monash University , Victoria , Australia .
| | - K Johan Rosengren
- The University of Queensland , School of Biomedical Sciences , Brisbane , QLD 4072 , Australia
| | - Stavros Selemidis
- Cardiovascular Disease Program , Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Pharmacology , Monash University , Victoria , Australia .
| | - Roger J Summers
- Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences , Monash University , Victoria , Australia
| | - John D Wade
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health , The University of Melbourne , Victoria 3010 , Australia . ; ; .,School of Chemistry , The University of Melbourne , Victoria 3010 , Australia
| | - Ross A D Bathgate
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health , The University of Melbourne , Victoria 3010 , Australia . ; ; .,Department of Biochemistry , The University of Melbourne , Victoria 3010 , Australia
| | - Chrishan S Samuel
- Cardiovascular Disease Program , Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Pharmacology , Monash University , Victoria , Australia .
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Díez J, Ruilope LM. Serelaxin for the treatment of acute heart failure: a review with a focus on end-organ protection. EUROPEAN HEART JOURNAL. CARDIOVASCULAR PHARMACOTHERAPY 2015; 2:119-30. [PMID: 27418970 PMCID: PMC4853824 DOI: 10.1093/ehjcvp/pvv046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2015] [Accepted: 10/26/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Acute heart failure (AHF) is a complex clinical syndrome characterized by fluid overload and haemodynamic abnormalities (short-term clinical consequences) and the development of end-organ damage (long-term consequences). Current therapies for the treatment of AHF, such as loop diuretics and vasodilators, help to relieve haemodynamic imbalance and congestion, but have not been shown to prevent (and may even contribute to) end-organ damage, or to provide long-term clinical benefit. Serelaxin is the recombinant form of human relaxin-2, a naturally occurring hormone involved in mediating haemodynamic changes during pregnancy. Preclinical and clinical studies have investigated the effects mediated by serelaxin and the suitability of this agent for the treatment of patients with AHF. Data suggest that serelaxin acts via multiple pathways to improve haemodynamics at the vascular, cardiac, and renal level and provide effective congestion relief. In addition, this novel agent may protect the heart, kidneys, and liver from damage by inhibiting inflammation, oxidative stress, cell death, and tissue fibrosis, and stimulating angiogenesis. Serelaxin may therefore improve both short- and long-term outcomes in patients with AHF. In this review, we examine the unique mechanisms underlying the potential benefits of serelaxin for the treatment of AHF, in particular, those involved in mediating end-organ protection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Díez
- Program of Cardiovascular Diseases, Centre for Applied Medical Research and Department of Cardiology and Cardiac Surgery, University of Navarra Clinic, University of Navarra, Av. Pío XII 55, Pamplona 31008, Spain
| | - Luis M Ruilope
- Research Institute, Hypertension Unit, Hospital 12 de Octubre and Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, University Autónoma, Madrid, Spain
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Zhou X, Chen X, Cai JJ, Chen LZ, Gong YS, Wang LX, Gao Z, Zhang HQ, Huang WJ, Zhou H. Relaxin inhibits cardiac fibrosis and endothelial-mesenchymal transition via the Notch pathway. DRUG DESIGN DEVELOPMENT AND THERAPY 2015; 9:4599-611. [PMID: 26316699 PMCID: PMC4541540 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s85399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Relaxin (RLX) can prevent cardiac fibrosis. We aimed to investigate the possible mechanism and signal transduction pathway of RLX inhibiting cardiac fibrosis. METHODS Isoproterenol (5 mg·kg(-1)·d(-1)) was used to establish the cardiac fibrosis model in rats, which were administered RLX. The cardiac function, related targets of cardiac fibrosis, and endothelial-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) were measured. Transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) was used to induce EndMT in human umbilical vein endothelial cells, which were pretreated with RLX, 200 ng·mL(-1), then with the inhibitor of Notch. Transwell cell migration was used to evaluate cell migration. CD31 and vimentin content was determined by immunofluorescence staining and Western blot analysis. Notch protein level was examined by Western blot analysis. RESULTS RLX improved cardiac function in rats with cardiac fibrosis; it reduced the content of collagen I and III, increased the microvascular density of the myocardium, and suppressed the EndMT in heart tissue. In vitro, RLX decreased the mobility of human umbilical vein endothelial cells induced by TGF-β, increased the expression of endothelial CD31, and decreased vimentin content. Compared to TGF-β and RLX co-culture alone, TGF-β + RLX + Notch inhibitor increased cell mobility and the EndMT, but decreased the levels of Notch-1, HES-1, and Jagged-1 proteins. CONCLUSION RLX may inhibit the cardiac fibrosis via EndMT by Notch-mediated signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- X Zhou
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - X Chen
- Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - J J Cai
- Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - L Z Chen
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Wenzhou Central Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Y S Gong
- Institute of Hypoxia Medicine, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - L X Wang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Z Gao
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - H Q Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - W J Huang
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - H Zhou
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, People's Republic of China
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Saliba Y, Karam R, Smayra V, Aftimos G, Abramowitz J, Birnbaumer L, Farès N. Evidence of a Role for Fibroblast Transient Receptor Potential Canonical 3 Ca2+ Channel in Renal Fibrosis. J Am Soc Nephrol 2015; 26:1855-76. [PMID: 25479966 PMCID: PMC4520158 DOI: 10.1681/asn.2014010065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2014] [Accepted: 09/23/2014] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Transient receptor potential canonical (TRPC) Ca(2+)-permeant channels, especially TRPC3, are increasingly implicated in cardiorenal diseases. We studied the possible role of fibroblast TRPC3 in the development of renal fibrosis. In vitro, a macromolecular complex formed by TRPC1/TRPC3/TRPC6 existed in isolated cultured rat renal fibroblasts. However, specific blockade of TRPC3 with the pharmacologic inhibitor pyr3 was sufficient to inhibit both angiotensin II- and 1-oleoyl-2-acetyl-sn-glycerol-induced Ca(2+) entry in these cells, which was detected by fura-2 Ca(2+) imaging. TRPC3 blockade or Ca(2+) removal inhibited fibroblast proliferation and myofibroblast differentiation by suppressing the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK1/2). In addition, pyr3 inhibited fibrosis and inflammation-associated markers in a noncytotoxic manner. Furthermore, TRPC3 knockdown by siRNA confirmed these pharmacologic findings. In adult male Wistar rats or wild-type mice subjected to unilateral ureteral obstruction, TRPC3 expression increased in the fibroblasts of obstructed kidneys and was associated with increased Ca(2+) entry, ERK1/2 phosphorylation, and fibroblast proliferation. Both TRPC3 blockade in rats and TRPC3 knockout in mice inhibited ERK1/2 phosphorylation and fibroblast activation as well as myofibroblast differentiation and extracellular matrix remodeling in obstructed kidneys, thus ameliorating tubulointerstitial damage and renal fibrosis. In conclusion, TRPC3 channels are present in renal fibroblasts and control fibroblast proliferation, differentiation, and activation through Ca(2+)-mediated ERK signaling. TRPC3 channels might constitute important therapeutic targets for improving renal remodeling in kidney disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youakim Saliba
- Physiology and Pathophysiology Research Laboratory, Pole of Technology and Health, Faculty of Medicine and
| | - Ralph Karam
- Physiology and Pathophysiology Research Laboratory, Pole of Technology and Health, Faculty of Medicine and
| | - Viviane Smayra
- Faculty of Medicine, Saint Joseph University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Georges Aftimos
- Department of Anatomopathology, National Institute of Pathology, Baabda, Lebanon; and
| | - Joel Abramowitz
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
| | - Lutz Birnbaumer
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
| | - Nassim Farès
- Physiology and Pathophysiology Research Laboratory, Pole of Technology and Health, Faculty of Medicine and
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Cyclic nucleotide signalling in kidney fibrosis. Int J Mol Sci 2015; 16:2320-51. [PMID: 25622251 PMCID: PMC4346839 DOI: 10.3390/ijms16022320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2014] [Revised: 11/14/2014] [Accepted: 01/14/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Kidney fibrosis is an important factor for the progression of kidney diseases, e.g., diabetes mellitus induced kidney failure, glomerulosclerosis and nephritis resulting in chronic kidney disease or end-stage renal disease. Cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) and cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) were implicated to suppress several of the above mentioned renal diseases. In this review article, identified effects and mechanisms of cGMP and cAMP regarding renal fibrosis are summarized. These mechanisms include several signalling pathways of nitric oxide/ANP/guanylyl cyclases/cGMP-dependent protein kinase and cAMP/Epac/adenylyl cyclases/cAMP-dependent protein kinase. Furthermore, diverse possible drugs activating these pathways are discussed. From these diverse mechanisms it is expected that new pharmacological treatments will evolve for the therapy or even prevention of kidney failure.
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Khawar IA, Kim JH, Kuh HJ. Improving drug delivery to solid tumors: priming the tumor microenvironment. J Control Release 2014; 201:78-89. [PMID: 25526702 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2014.12.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 342] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2014] [Revised: 12/15/2014] [Accepted: 12/16/2014] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Malignant transformation and growth of the tumor mass tend to induce changes in the surrounding microenvironment. Abnormality of the tumor microenvironment provides a driving force leading not only to tumor progression, including invasion and metastasis, but also to acquisition of drug resistance, including pharmacokinetic (drug delivery-related) and pharmacodynamic (sensitivity-related) resistance. Drug delivery systems exploiting the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect and active targeting moieties were expected to be able to cope with delivery-related drug resistance. However, recent evidence supports a considerable barrier role of tumors via various mechanisms, which results in imperfect or inefficient EPR and/or targeting effect. The components of the tumor microenvironment such as abnormal tumor vascular system, deregulated composition of the extracellular matrix, and interstitial hypertension (elevated interstitial fluid pressure) collectively or cooperatively hinder the drug distribution, which is prerequisite to the efficacy of nanoparticles and small-molecule drugs used in cancer medicine. Hence, the abnormal tumor microenvironment has recently been suggested to be a promising target for the improvement of drug delivery to improve therapeutic efficacy. Strategies to modulate the abnormal tumor microenvironment, referred to here as "solid tumor priming" (vascular normalization and/or solid stress alleviation leading to improvement in blood perfusion and convective molecular movement), have shown promising results in the enhancement of drug delivery and anticancer efficacy. These strategies may provide a novel avenue for the development of new chemotherapeutics and combination chemotherapeutic regimens as well as reassessment of previously ineffective agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iftikhar Ali Khawar
- Department of Biomedicine & Health Sciences, Graduate School, The Catholic University of Korea, 222, Banpo-daero, Seocho-gu, Seoul 137-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung Ho Kim
- Department of Biomedicine & Health Sciences, Graduate School, The Catholic University of Korea, 222, Banpo-daero, Seocho-gu, Seoul 137-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyo-Jeong Kuh
- Department of Biomedicine & Health Sciences, Graduate School, The Catholic University of Korea, 222, Banpo-daero, Seocho-gu, Seoul 137-701, Republic of Korea; Department of Medical LifeScience, School of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, 222, Banpo-daero, Seocho-gu, Seoul 137-701, Republic of Korea.
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Huuskes BM, Wise AF, Cox AJ, Lim EX, Payne NL, Kelly DJ, Samuel CS, Ricardo SD. Combination therapy of mesenchymal stem cells and serelaxin effectively attenuates renal fibrosis in obstructive nephropathy. FASEB J 2014; 29:540-53. [PMID: 25395452 DOI: 10.1096/fj.14-254789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) results from the development of fibrosis, ultimately leading to end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Although human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can accelerate renal repair following acute injury, the establishment of fibrosis during CKD may affect their potential to influence regeneration capacity. Here we tested the novel combination of MSCs with the antifibrotic serelaxin to repair and protect the kidney 7 d post-unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO), when fibrosis is established. Male C57BL6 mice were sham-operated or UUO-inured (n = 4-6) and received vehicle, MSCs (1 × 10(6)), serelaxin (0.5 mg/kg per d), or the combination of both. In vivo tracing studies with luciferin/enhanced green fluorescent protein (eGFP)-tagged MSCs showed specific localization in the obstructed kidney where they remained for 36 h. Combination therapy conferred significant protection from UUO-induced fibrosis, as indicated by hydroxyproline analysis (P < 0.001 vs. vehicle, P < 0.05 vs. MSC or serelaxin alone). This was accompanied by preserved structural architecture, decreased tubular epithelial injury (P < 0.01 vs. MSCs alone), macrophage infiltration, and myofibroblast localization in the kidney (both P < 0.01 vs. vehicle). Combination therapy also stimulated matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 activity over either treatment alone (P < 0.05 vs. either treatment alone). These results suggest that the presence of an antifibrotic in conjunction with MSCs ameliorates established kidney fibrosis and augments tissue repair to a greater extent than either treatment alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brooke M Huuskes
- *Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology and Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, St. Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia; and Australia Regenerative Medicine Institute (ARMI) and Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Andrea F Wise
- *Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology and Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, St. Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia; and Australia Regenerative Medicine Institute (ARMI) and Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Alison J Cox
- *Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology and Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, St. Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia; and Australia Regenerative Medicine Institute (ARMI) and Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ee X Lim
- *Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology and Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, St. Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia; and Australia Regenerative Medicine Institute (ARMI) and Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Natalie L Payne
- *Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology and Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, St. Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia; and Australia Regenerative Medicine Institute (ARMI) and Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Darren J Kelly
- *Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology and Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, St. Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia; and Australia Regenerative Medicine Institute (ARMI) and Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Chrishan S Samuel
- *Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology and Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, St. Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia; and Australia Regenerative Medicine Institute (ARMI) and Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sharon D Ricardo
- *Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology and Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, St. Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia; and Australia Regenerative Medicine Institute (ARMI) and Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
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Chow BSM, Kocan M, Bosnyak S, Sarwar M, Wigg B, Jones ES, Widdop RE, Summers RJ, Bathgate RA, Hewitson TD, Samuel CS. Relaxin requires the angiotensin II type 2 receptor to abrogate renal interstitial fibrosis. Kidney Int 2014; 86:75-85. [DOI: 10.1038/ki.2013.518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2013] [Revised: 09/23/2013] [Accepted: 10/17/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Kang YM, Choi YR, Yun CO, Park JO, Suk KS, Kim HS, Park MS, Lee BH, Lee HM, Moon SH. Down-regulation of collagen synthesis and matrix metalloproteinase expression in myofibroblasts from Dupuytren nodule using adenovirus-mediated relaxin gene therapy. J Orthop Res 2014; 32:515-23. [PMID: 24293067 DOI: 10.1002/jor.22535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2013] [Accepted: 11/09/2013] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Dupuytren's disease is a fibroproliferative connective tissue disorder characterized by contracture of the palmer fascia of the hand. Relaxin (RLN) is a multifunctional factor which contributes to the remodeling of the pelvic ligament by inhibiting fibrosis and inflammatory activities. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of the RLN gene on the inhibition of fibrosis in myofibroblastic cells. Myofibroblast cells with adenovirus LacZ (Ad-LacZ) as a marker gene or adenovirus relaxin (Ad-RLN) as therapeutic gene showed transgene expressions in beta-galactosidase assay and Western blot analysis. Myofibroblastic cells with Ad-RLN demonstrated a 22% and 48% reduction in collagen I and III mRNA expressions respectively, a 50% decrease in MMP-1, 70% decrease in MMP-2, 80% decrease in MMP-9, and a 15% reduction in MMP-13 protein expression compared with cultures with viral control and saline control. In addition, myofibroblastic cells with Ad-RLN showed a 40% decrease in TIMP 1 and a 15% increase in TIMP 3 protein expression at 48 h compared to cultures with viral control and saline control. Also, myofibroblastic cell with Ad-RLN demonstrated a 74% inhibition of fibronectin and a 52% decrease in total collagen synthesis at 48 h compared with cultures with viral control and saline control. In conclusion, the RLN gene render antifibrogenic effect on myofibroblastic cells from Dupuytren's nodule via direct inhibition of collagen synthesis not through collagenolytic pathway such as MMP-1, -13, TIMP 1, and 3. Therefore relaxin can be an alternative therapeutic strategy in initial stage of Dupuytren's disease by its antifibrogenic effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young-Mi Kang
- BK21 PLUS Project for Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of, Korea
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Bennett RG, Heimann DG, Singh S, Simpson RL, Tuma DJ. Relaxin decreases the severity of established hepatic fibrosis in mice. Liver Int 2014; 34:416-26. [PMID: 23870027 PMCID: PMC3843971 DOI: 10.1111/liv.12247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2013] [Accepted: 06/09/2013] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Hepatic fibrosis is characterized by excess collagen deposition, decreased extracellular matrix degradation and activation of the hepatic stellate cells. The hormone relaxin has shown promise in the treatment of fibrosis in a number of tissues, but the effect of relaxin on established hepatic fibrosis is unknown. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of relaxin on an in vivo model after establishing hepatic fibrosis METHODS Male mice were made fibrotic by carbon tetrachloride treatment for 4 weeks, followed by treatment with two doses of relaxin (25 or 75 μg/kg/day) or vehicle for 4 weeks, with continued administration of carbon tetrachloride. RESULTS Relaxin significantly decreased total hepatic collagen and smooth muscle actin content at both doses, and suppressed collagen I expression at the higher dose. Relaxin increased the expression of the matrix metalloproteinases MMP13 and MMP3, decreased the expression of MMP2 and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 2 (TIMP2) and increased the overall level of collagen-degrading activity. Relaxin decreased TGFβ-induced Smad2 nuclear localization in mouse hepatic stellate cells. CONCLUSIONS The results suggest that relaxin reduced collagen deposition and HSC activation in established hepatic fibrosis despite the presence of continued hepatic insult. This reduced fibrosis was associated with increased expression of the fibrillar collagen-degrading enzyme MMP13, decreased expression of TIMP2, and enhanced collagen-degrading activity, and impaired TGFβ signalling, consistent with relaxin's effects on activated fibroblastic cells. The results suggest that relaxin may be an effective treatment for the treatment of established hepatic fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert G. Bennett
- Research Service, VA Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, USA
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, USA
- Department of Pharmacology & Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, USA
| | - Dean G. Heimann
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, USA
| | - Sudhir Singh
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, USA
| | - Ronda L. Simpson
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, USA
| | - Dean J. Tuma
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, USA
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Dehghan F, Muniandy S, Yusof A, Salleh N. Sex-steroid regulation of relaxin receptor isoforms (RXFP1 & RXFP2) expression in the patellar tendon and lateral collateral ligament of female WKY rats. Int J Med Sci 2014; 11:180-91. [PMID: 24465164 PMCID: PMC3894403 DOI: 10.7150/ijms.6283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2013] [Accepted: 11/25/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED The incidence of non-contact knee injury was found higher in female than in male and is related to the phases of the menstrual cycle. This raised the possibility that female sex-steroids are involved in the mechanism underlying this injury via affecting the expression of the receptors for relaxin, a peptide hormone known to modulate ligament laxity. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the effect of sex-steroids on relaxin receptor isoforms (RXFP1 & RXFP2) expression in the ligaments and tendons of the knee. METHODS Ovariectomized adult female WKY rats were treated with different doses of estrogen (0.2, 2, 20 μg/kg), progesterone (4mg) and testosterone (125 & 250μg/kg) for three consecutive days. At the end of the treatment, the animals were sacrificed and the patellar tendon and lateral collateral ligament were harvested for mRNA and protein expression analyses by Real Time PCR and Western blotting respectively. RESULTS RXFP1, the main isoform expressed in these knee structures and RXFP2 showed a dose-dependent increase in expression with estrogen. Progesterone treatment resulted in an increase while testosterone caused a dose-dependent decrease in the mRNA and protein expression of both relaxin receptor isoforms. DISCUSSION Progesterone and high dose estrogen up-regulate while testosterone down-regulates RXFP1 and RXFP2 expression in the patellar tendon and lateral collateral ligament of rat's knee. CONCLUSION Relaxin receptor isoforms up-regulation by progesterone and high dose estrogen could provide the basis for the reported increase in knee laxity while down-regulation of these receptor isoforms by testosterone could explain low incidence of non-contact knee injury in male.
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Affiliation(s)
- Firouzeh Dehghan
- 1. Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Sekaran Muniandy
- 2. Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Ashril Yusof
- 3. Department of Physiology, Sport Center, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Naguib Salleh
- 1. Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Relaxin attenuates silica-induced pulmonary fibrosis by regulating collagen type I and MMP-2. Int Immunopharmacol 2013; 17:537-42. [DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2013.07.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2013] [Revised: 07/12/2013] [Accepted: 07/29/2013] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Sasser JM. The emerging role of relaxin as a novel therapeutic pathway in the treatment of chronic kidney disease. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2013; 305:R559-65. [PMID: 23883673 DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00528.2012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Emerging evidence supports a potential therapeutic role of relaxin in fibrotic diseases, including chronic kidney disease. Relaxin is a pleiotropic hormone, best characterized for its role in the reproductive system; however, recent studies have demonstrated a role of relaxin in the cardiorenal system. Both relaxin and its receptor, RXFP1, are expressed in the kidney, and relaxin has been shown to play a role in renal vasodilation, in sodium excretion, and as an antifibrotic agent. Together, these findings suggest that the kidney is a target organ of relaxin. Therefore, the purpose of this review is to describe the functional and structural impacts of relaxin treatment on the kidney and to discuss evidence that relaxin prevents disease progression in several experimental models of kidney disease. In addition, this review will present potential mechanisms that are involved in the therapeutic actions of relaxin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer M Sasser
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
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Abstract
Chronic and acute renal diseases, irrespective of the initiating cause, have inflammation and immune system activation as a common underlying mechanism. The purpose of this review is to provide a broad overview of immune cells and inflammatory proteins that contribute to the pathogenesis of renal disease, and to discuss some of the physiological changes that occur in the kidney as a result of immune system activation. An overview of common forms of acute and chronic renal disease is provided, followed by a discussion of common therapies that have anti-inflammatory or immunosuppressive effects in the treatment of renal disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- John D Imig
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA.
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Bathgate RAD, Halls ML, van der Westhuizen ET, Callander GE, Kocan M, Summers RJ. Relaxin family peptides and their receptors. Physiol Rev 2013; 93:405-80. [PMID: 23303914 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00001.2012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 353] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
There are seven relaxin family peptides that are all structurally related to insulin. Relaxin has many roles in female and male reproduction, as a neuropeptide in the central nervous system, as a vasodilator and cardiac stimulant in the cardiovascular system, and as an antifibrotic agent. Insulin-like peptide-3 (INSL3) has clearly defined specialist roles in male and female reproduction, relaxin-3 is primarily a neuropeptide involved in stress and metabolic control, and INSL5 is widely distributed particularly in the gastrointestinal tract. Although they are structurally related to insulin, the relaxin family peptides produce their physiological effects by activating a group of four G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), relaxin family peptide receptors 1-4 (RXFP1-4). Relaxin and INSL3 are the cognate ligands for RXFP1 and RXFP2, respectively, that are leucine-rich repeat containing GPCRs. RXFP1 activates a wide spectrum of signaling pathways to generate second messengers that include cAMP and nitric oxide, whereas RXFP2 activates a subset of these pathways. Relaxin-3 and INSL5 are the cognate ligands for RXFP3 and RXFP4 that are closely related to small peptide receptors that when activated inhibit cAMP production and activate MAP kinases. Although there are still many unanswered questions regarding the mode of action of relaxin family peptides, it is clear that they have important physiological roles that could be exploited for therapeutic benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- R A D Bathgate
- Drug Discovery Biology, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences & Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
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Chow BSM, Chew EGY, Zhao C, Bathgate RAD, Hewitson TD, Samuel CS. Relaxin signals through a RXFP1-pERK-nNOS-NO-cGMP-dependent pathway to up-regulate matrix metalloproteinases: the additional involvement of iNOS. PLoS One 2012; 7:e42714. [PMID: 22936987 PMCID: PMC3425563 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0042714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2012] [Accepted: 07/11/2012] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The hormone, relaxin, inhibits aberrant myofibroblast differentiation and collagen deposition by disrupting the TGF-β1/Smad2 axis, via its cognate receptor, Relaxin Family Peptide Receptor 1 (RXFP1), extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)1/2 phosphorylation (pERK) and a neuronal nitric oxide (NO) synthase (nNOS)-NO-cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP)-dependent pathway. However, the signalling pathways involved in its additional ability to increase matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) expression and activity remain unknown. This study investigated the extent to which the NO pathway was involved in human gene-2 (H2) relaxin's ability to positively regulate MMP-1 and its rodent orthologue, MMP-13, MMP-2 and MMP-9 (the main collagen-degrading MMPs) in TGF-β1-stimulated human dermal fibroblasts and primary renal myofibroblasts isolated from injured rats; by gelatin zymography (media) and Western blotting (cell layer). H2 relaxin (10-100 ng/ml) significantly increased MMP-1 (by ~50%), MMP-2 (by ~80%) and MMP-9 (by ~80%) in TGF-β1-stimulated human dermal fibroblasts; and MMP-13 (by ~90%), MMP-2 (by ~130%) and MMP-9 (by ~115%) in rat renal myofibroblasts (all p<0.01 vs untreated cells) over 72 hours. The relaxin-induced up-regulation of these MMPs, however, was significantly blocked by a non-selective NOS inhibitor (L-nitroarginine methyl ester (hydrochloride); L-NAME; 75-100 µM), and specific inhibitors to nNOS (N-propyl-L-arginine; NPLA; 0.2-2 µM), iNOS (1400W; 0.5-1 µM) and guanylyl cyclase (ODQ; 5 µM) (all p<0.05 vs H2 relaxin alone), but not eNOS (L-N-(1-iminoethyl)ornithine dihydrochloride; L-NIO; 0.5-5 µM). However, neither of these inhibitors affected basal MMP expression at the concentrations used. Furthermore, of the NOS isoforms expressed in renal myofibroblasts (nNOS and iNOS), H2 relaxin only stimulated nNOS expression, which in turn, was blocked by the ERK1/2 inhibitor (PD98059; 1 µM). These findings demonstrated that H2 relaxin signals through a RXFP1-pERK-nNOS-NO-cGMP-dependent pathway to mediate its anti-fibrotic actions, and additionally signals through iNOS to up-regulate MMPs; the latter being suppressed by TGF-β1 in myofibroblasts, but released upon H2 relaxin-induced inhibition of the TGF-β1/Smad2 axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryna Suet Man Chow
- Florey Neuroscience Institutes, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Elaine Guo Yan Chew
- Florey Neuroscience Institutes, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Chongxin Zhao
- Florey Neuroscience Institutes, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ross A. D. Bathgate
- Florey Neuroscience Institutes, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Tim D. Hewitson
- Department of Nephrology, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Chrishan S. Samuel
- Florey Neuroscience Institutes, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
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Halls ML. Constitutive formation of an RXFP1-signalosome: a novel paradigm in GPCR function and regulation. Br J Pharmacol 2012; 165:1644-1658. [PMID: 21557732 DOI: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2011.01470.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The classical second messenger cAMP is important in diverse physiological processes, where its spatial and temporal compartmentalization allows precise control over multiple cellular events. Within this context, G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) govern specialized pools of cAMP, which are functionally specific for the unique cellular effects attributed to a particular system. The relaxin receptor, RXFP1, is a GPCR that exerts pleiotropic physiological effects including a potent anti-fibrotic response, increased cancer metastases, and has efficacy as a vasodilator in heart failure. On a cellular level, relaxin stimulation of RXFP1 results in the activation of multiple G-protein pathways affecting cAMP accumulation. Specificity and diversity in the cAMP signal generated by RXFP1 is controlled by differential G-protein coupling dependent upon the background of cellular expression, and cAMP compartmentalization. Further complexity in cAMP signalling results from the constitutive assembly of an RXFP1-signalosome, which specifically responds to low concentrations of relaxin, and activates a distinct cAMP pathway. The RXFP1-signalosome is a higher-order protein complex that facilitates receptor sensitivity to attomolar concentration of peptide, exhibits constitutive activity and dual coupling to G-proteins and β-arrestins and reveals a concentration-biased agonism mediated by relaxin. The specific and directed formation of GPCR-centered signalosomes allows an even greater spatial and temporal control of cAMP, thus rationalizing the considerable physiological scope of this ubiquitous second messenger.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle L Halls
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
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Hewitson TD, Zhao C, Wigg B, Lee SW, Simpson ER, Boon WC, Samuel CS. Relaxin and castration in male mice protect from, but testosterone exacerbates, age-related cardiac and renal fibrosis, whereas estrogens are an independent determinant of organ size. Endocrinology 2012; 153:188-99. [PMID: 22028442 DOI: 10.1210/en.2011-1311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
This study determined the effects of castration and hormone replacement therapy on the age-related cardiac and renal pathology of male relaxin gene-knockout (RlnKO) and age-matched wild-type (RlnWT) mice and that of aged male aromatase knockout (ArKO) mice, which lack estrogens and have 5-10 times the androgen levels of male wild-type mice. One-month-old RlnWT and RlnKO mice were bilaterally gonadectomized or sham operated and maintained until 12 months. Subgroups of castrated animals received testosterone or 17β-estradiol treatment from 9 to 12 months. Male ArKO mice and aromatase wild-type mice were aged to 12 months. Collected heart and kidney tissues were assessed for changes in organ size and fibrosis. Castration reduced body, heart, left ventricle, and kidney weights in both RlnKO and RlnWT mice, and the cardiac/renal fibrosis that was seen in sham RlnKO animals (all P < 0.05 vs. respective sham). Testosterone normalized organ weights and organ weight to body weight ratio of castrated animals and increased cardiac/renal collagen concentration to levels measured in or beyond that of sham RlnKO mice (all P < 0.05 vs. respective castrated mice). Furthermore, expression of TGF-β1, mothers against decapentaplegic homolog 2 (Smad2), and myofibroblast differentiation paralleled the above changes (all P < 0.05 vs. respective castrated mice), whereas matrix metalloproteinase-13 was decreased in testosterone-treated RlnKO mice. Conversely, 17β-estradiol only restored changes in organ size. Consistent with these findings, intact ArKO mice demonstrated increased cardiac/renal fibrosis in the absence of changes in organ size. These findings suggest that relaxin and castration protect, whereas androgens exacerbate, cardiac and renal fibrosis during ageing, whereas estrogens, in synergy with relaxin, regulates age-related changes in organ size.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tim D Hewitson
- Howard Florey Institute, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
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Hirate Y, Yamaguchi M, Kasai K. Effects of relaxin on relapse and periodontal tissue remodeling after experimental tooth movement in rats. Connect Tissue Res 2011; 53:207-19. [PMID: 22141456 DOI: 10.3109/03008207.2011.628060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
The relapse of teeth that have moved during orthodontic treatment is a major clinical issue with respect to the goals of successful treatment. Relaxin has an influence on many physiologic processes, such as collagen turnover. In this study, we determined the effects of relaxin on the relapse and remodeling of periodontal tissue after experimental tooth movement in rats, and we explored the molecular mechanism underlying these processes. To induce experimental tooth movement in rats, 10 g of orthodontic force was applied to the molars. After 14 days, the spring was removed, and then animals began receiving relaxin at a dose of 500 ng/ml for 1 week. The results were evaluated by micro-computed tomography and immunofluorescence staining. In addition, the effects of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-1 and MMP-8 production were investigated in human periodontal ligament (hPDL) cells in vitro. The expression of MMP-1 and MMP-8 was analyzed by real-time polymerase chain reaction and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Furthermore, we demonstrated the signaling pathways involved in relaxin-regulated MMPs expression. The relapse distances and percentages were significantly decreased in the experimental group compared with the controls in vivo. A double-immunofluorescence analysis for Col-I/MMP-1 and Col-I/MMP-8 detected the expression of relaxin in the PDL. Relaxin significantly increased the MMP-1 and MMP-8 expression in a time-dependent manner in hPDL cells in vitro. Furthermore, a p38 inhibitor (SB203580) significantly inhibited the MMP-1 and MMP-8 expression. Our results indicated that relaxin modulates the collagen metabolism, and this hormone may therefore be useful to prevent orthodontic relapse following orthodontic treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yurie Hirate
- Department of Orthodontics, Nihon University School of Dentistry at Matsudo, Chiba, Japan
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Wnt/β-catenin pathway forms a negative feedback loop during TGF-β1 induced human normal skin fibroblast-to-myofibroblast transition. J Dermatol Sci 2011; 65:38-49. [PMID: 22041457 DOI: 10.1016/j.jdermsci.2011.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2011] [Revised: 07/17/2011] [Accepted: 09/30/2011] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fibroblast-to-myofibroblast transition is a key event during wound healing and hypertrophic scar formation. Previous studies suggested Wnt/β-catenin signaling might be involved in the wound healing. However, its specific role in skin fibroblast-to-myofibroblast transition remains unclear. OBJECTIVE To investigate the specific role of β-catenin during the transforming growth factor-β1 induced normal skin myofibroblasts transition. METHODS By real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction, Western-blot and immunocytochemistry, the activation of Wnt/β-catenin pathway in cultured human normal skin fibroblasts during TGF-β1 induced fibroblast-to-myofibroblast transition was investigated. The effects of β-catenin on myofibroblasts transition were also investigated when SB-216763, over-expression and siRNA of β-catenin were utilized. In addition, fibroblasts populated collagen lattices contraction assays were conducted to examine the effects of β-catenin on the contractility of the fibroblasts induced by TGF-β1. Furthermore, the effects of β-catenin on the expression of α-smooth muscle actin and collagen types I and III in hypertrophic scar derived fibroblasts were studied. RESULTS The expression of Wnts mRNA and β-catenin protein was up-regulated by TGF-β1 stimulation during the myofibroblasts transition. Both of SB-216763 and β-catenin over-expression was paralleled with decreased expression of α-smooth muscle actin, collagen types I and III, while siRNA targeting β-catenin leads to up-regulation of α-smooth muscle actin, collagen types I and III. The increased contractility and α-smooth muscle actin expression of the fibroblasts in the collagen lattices induced by TGF-β1 was inhibited by SB-216763. In addition, the expression levels of α-smooth muscle actin, collagen types I and III in hypertrophic scar derived fibroblasts were also down-regulated by SB-216763. CONCLUSION Specifically in normal skin fibroblasts, β-catenin might be involved in the myofibroblasts transition and negatively regulate the TGF-β1-induced myofibroblast transition.
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Huang X, Gai Y, Yang N, Lu B, Samuel CS, Thannickal VJ, Zhou Y. Relaxin regulates myofibroblast contractility and protects against lung fibrosis. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2011; 179:2751-65. [PMID: 21983071 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2011.08.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2011] [Revised: 07/18/2011] [Accepted: 08/22/2011] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Myofibroblasts are specialized contractile cells that participate in tissue fibrosis and remodeling, including idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Mechanotransduction, a process by which mechanical stimuli are converted into biochemical signals, regulates myofibroblast differentiation. Relaxin is a peptide hormone that mediates antifibrotic effects through regulation of collagen synthesis and turnover. In this study, we demonstrate enhanced myofibroblast contraction in bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis in mice and in fibroblastic foci of human subjects with IPF, using phosphorylation of the regulatory myosin light chain (MLC(20)) as a biomarker of in vivo cellular contractility. Compared with wild-type mice, relaxin knockout mice express higher lung levels of phospho-MLC(20) and develop more severe bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis. Exogenous relaxin inhibits MLC(20) phosphorylation and bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis in both relaxin knockout and wild-type mice. Ex vivo studies of IPF lung myofibroblasts demonstrate decreases in MLC(20) phosphorylation and reduced contractility in response to relaxin. Characterization of the signaling pathway reveals that relaxin regulates MLC(20) dephosphorylation and lung myofibroblast contraction by inactivating RhoA/Rho-associated protein kinase through a nitric oxide/cGMP/protein kinase G-dependent mechanism. These studies identify a novel antifibrotic role of relaxin involving the inhibition of the contractile phenotype of lung myofibroblasts and suggest that targeting myofibroblast contractility with relaxin-like peptides may be of therapeutic benefit in the treatment of fibrotic lung disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangwei Huang
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
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Hossain MA, Rosengren KJ, Samuel CS, Shabanpoor F, Chan LJ, Bathgate RAD, Wade JD. The minimal active structure of human relaxin-2. J Biol Chem 2011; 286:37555-65. [PMID: 21878627 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m111.282194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
H2 relaxin is a peptide hormone associated with a number of therapeutically relevant physiological effects, including regulation of collagen metabolism and multiple vascular control pathways. It is currently in phase III clinical trials for the treatment of acute heart failure due to its ability to induce vasodilation and influence renal function. It comprises 53 amino acids and is characterized by two separate polypeptide chains (A-B) that are cross-linked by three disulfide bonds. This size and complex structure represents a considerable challenge for the chemical synthesis of H2 relaxin, a major limiting factor for the exploration of modifications and derivatizations of this peptide, to optimize effect and drug-like characteristics. To address this issue, we describe the solid phase peptide synthesis and structural and functional evaluation of 24 analogues of H2 relaxin with truncations at the termini of its peptide chains. We show that it is possible to significantly truncate both the N and C termini of the B-chain while still retaining potent biological activity. This suggests that these regions are not critical for interactions with the H2 relaxin receptor, RXFP1. In contrast, truncations do reduce the activity of H2 relaxin for the related receptor RXFP2 by improving RXFP1 selectivity. In addition to new mechanistic insights into the function of H2 relaxin, this study identifies a critical active core with 38 amino acids. This minimized core shows similar antifibrotic activity as native H2 relaxin when tested in human BJ3 cells and thus represents an attractive receptor-selective lead for the development of novel relaxin therapeutics.
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Bialek J, Kunanuvat U, Hombach-Klonisch S, Spens A, Stetefeld J, Sunley K, Lippert D, Wilkins JA, Hoang-Vu C, Klonisch T. Relaxin Enhances the Collagenolytic Activity and In Vitro Invasiveness by Upregulating Matrix Metalloproteinases in Human Thyroid Carcinoma Cells. Mol Cancer Res 2011; 9:673-87. [DOI: 10.1158/1541-7786.mcr-10-0411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Hossain MA, Chow Suet Man B, Zhao C, Xu Q, Du XJ, Wade JD, Samuel CS. H3 Relaxin Demonstrates Antifibrotic Properties via the RXFP1 Receptor. Biochemistry 2011; 50:1368-75. [DOI: 10.1021/bi1013968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Qi Xu
- Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute, St. Kilda Road Central, Melbourne, Victoria 8008, Australia
| | - Xiao-Jun Du
- Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute, St. Kilda Road Central, Melbourne, Victoria 8008, Australia
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Hewitson TD, Ho WY, Samuel CS. Antifibrotic properties of relaxin: in vivo mechanism of action in experimental renal tubulointerstitial fibrosis. Endocrinology 2010; 151:4938-48. [PMID: 20826562 DOI: 10.1210/en.2010-0286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
This study examined the efficacy and in vivo mechanism of action of the antifibrotic hormone, relaxin, in a mouse model of unilateral ureteric obstruction (UUO). Kidney fibrosis was assessed in recombinant human gene-2 relaxin-treated animals maintained for 3 and 9 d after UUO. Results were compared with untreated and unoperated animals (d 0). Total collagen, collagen subtypes (I, IV), TGF-β2 production, mothers against decapentaplegic homolog 2 (Smad2) phosphorylation, myofibroblast differentiation, mitosis, and apoptosis were all progressively increased by UUO (all P<0.05 vs. d 0 group at d 3 and d 9), whereas TGF-β1 production was increased and vascular endothelial growth factor expression (angiogenesis) decreased at d 9 (both P<0.05 vs. d 0). A progressive increase in matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 after UUO suggested that it was reactive to the increased fibrogenesis. Conversely, MMP-9 was decreased at d 9, whereas its inhibitor tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 progressively decreased after UUO. Human gene-2 relaxin pretreatment of animals from 4 d prior to UUO ameliorated the increase in total collagen, collagen IV, Smad2 phosphorylation, and myofibroblasts at both time points (all P<0.05 vs. untreated groups) and inhibited TGF-β2 production and cell proliferation (both P<0.05 vs. untreated groups) with a trend toward normalizing vascular endothelial growth factor expression at d 9, with no effect on TGF-β1 production or apoptosis. The relaxin-mediated regulation of MMPs and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases in this model was not consistent with its antifibrotic properties. The beneficial effects of relaxin were lost when treatment was stopped. These findings establish that relaxin can inhibit both early and established phases of tubulointerstitial fibrosis, primarily by suppressing cell proliferation, myofibroblast differentiation, and collagen production. Not all of these effects paralleled changes to TGF-β-Smad signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tim D Hewitson
- Howard Florey Institute, The University of Melbourne, and Department of Nephrology, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria 3050, Australia.
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Detection of RXFP1 receptors in skin biopsies from children with congenital adrenal hyperplasia: a preliminary report. J Pediatr Urol 2010; 6:389-95. [PMID: 19897422 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpurol.2009.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2009] [Accepted: 10/05/2009] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Relaxin may potentiate the effect of topical estrogen treatment to eradicate post-incisional scarring in congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) patients undergoing genitoplasty. The aim of this study was to determine whether CAH skin is capable of responding to relaxin. PATIENTS AND METHODS Skin biopsies were obtained from four female CAH patients (aged 2-9 years; Prader 4-5, salt-wasting, 21-hydroxylase deficiency, Caucasian) during routine genitoplasty surgery and screened for relaxin receptors. All received corticosteroid and mineralocorticoid replacement therapy. Specimens were sectioned, mounted and screened for the presence of the putative H2 relaxin receptor using conventional two-antibody immunohistochemistry. Tissue controls were processed concurrently. RESULTS Tissue controls evidenced appropriate staining. Biopsies from CAH patients stained positively for RXFP1 expression while some variation between specimens was evident. Staining occurred adjacent to the basement membrane of the epithelium, localized to germinative basal keratinocytes. CONCLUSION Based on a limited patient sample, germinative keratinocytes in CAH patients appear competent to respond to relaxin perhaps topically applied. Given that relaxin downregulates collagen accretion and upregulates collagenases, its use may potentiate the effects of estradiol and abrogate post-incisional wound scarring. More research is needed to confirm or refute this thesis.
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Singh S, Bennett RG. Relaxin signaling activates peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2010; 315:239-45. [PMID: 19712722 PMCID: PMC2814924 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2009.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2009] [Revised: 08/10/2009] [Accepted: 08/18/2009] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Relaxin is a polypeptide hormone that triggers multiple signaling pathways through its receptor RXFP1 (relaxin family peptide receptor 1). Many of relaxin's functions, including vascular and antifibrotic effects, are similar to those induced by activation of PPARgamma. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that relaxin signaling through RXFP1 would activate PPARgamma activity. In cells overexpressing RXFP1 (HEK-RXFP1), relaxin increased transcriptional activity through a PPAR response element (PPRE) in a concentration-dependent manner. In cells lacking RXFP1, relaxin had no effect. Relaxin increased both the baseline activity and the response to the PPARgamma agonists rosiglitazone and 15d-PGJ(2), but not to agonists of PPARalpha or PPARdelta. In HEK-RXFP1 cells infected with adenovirus expressing PPARgamma, relaxin increased transcriptional activity through PPRE, and this effect was blocked with an adenovirus expressing a dominant-negative PPARgamma. Knockdown of PPARgamma using siRNA resulted in a decrease in the response to both relaxin and rosiglitazone. Both relaxin and rosiglitazone increased expression of the PPARgamma target genes CD36 and LXRalpha in HEK-RXFP1 and in THP-1 cells naturally expressing RXFP1. Relaxin did not increase PPARgamma mRNA or protein levels. Treatment of cells with GW9662, an inhibitor of PPARgamma ligand binding, effectively blocked rosiglitazone-induced PPARgamma activation, but had no effect on relaxin activation of PPARgamma. These results suggest that relaxin activates PPARgamma activity, and increases the overall response in the presence of PPARgamma agonists. This activation is dependent on the presence of RXFP1. Furthermore, relaxin activates PPARgamma via a ligand-independent mechanism. These studies represent the first report that relaxin can activate the transcriptional activity of PPARgamma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sudhir Singh
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
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Hossain MA, Samuel CS, Binder C, Hewitson TD, Tregear GW, Wade JD, Bathgate RAD. The chemically synthesized human relaxin-2 analog, B-R13/17K H2, is an RXFP1 antagonist. Amino Acids 2009; 39:409-16. [DOI: 10.1007/s00726-009-0454-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2009] [Accepted: 12/17/2009] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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