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Segarra-Queralt M, Crump K, Pascuet-Fontanet A, Gantenbein B, Noailly J. The interplay between biochemical mediators and mechanotransduction in chondrocytes: Unravelling the differential responses in primary knee osteoarthritis. Phys Life Rev 2024; 48:205-221. [PMID: 38377727 DOI: 10.1016/j.plrev.2024.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
In primary or idiopathic osteoarthritis (OA), it is unclear which factors trigger the shift of articular chondrocyte activity from pro-anabolic to pro-catabolic. In fact, there is a controversy about the aetiology of primary OA, either mechanical or inflammatory. Chondrocytes are mechanosensitive cells, that integrate mechanical stimuli into cellular responses in a process known as mechanotransduction. Mechanotransduction occurs thanks to the activation of mechanosensors, a set of specialized proteins that convert physical cues into intracellular signalling cascades. Moderate levels of mechanical loads maintain normal tissue function and have anti-inflammatory effects. In contrast, mechanical over- or under-loading might lead to cartilage destruction and increased expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Simultaneously, mechanotransduction processes can regulate and be regulated by pro- and anti-inflammatory soluble mediators, both local (cells of the same joint, i.e., the chondrocytes themselves, infiltrating macrophages, fibroblasts or osteoclasts) and systemic (from other tissues, e.g., adipokines). Thus, the complex process of mechanotransduction might be altered in OA, so that cartilage-preserving chondrocytes adopt a different sensitivity to mechanical signals, and mechanic stimuli positively transduced in the healthy cartilage may become deleterious under OA conditions. This review aims to provide an overview of how the biochemical exposome of chondrocytes can alter important mechanotransduction processes in these cells. Four principal mechanosensors, i.e., integrins, Ca2+ channels, primary cilium and Wnt signalling (canonical and non-canonical) were targeted. For each of these mechanosensors, a brief summary of the response to mechanical loads under healthy or OA conditions is followed by a concise overview of published works that focus on the further regulation of the mechanotransduction pathways by biochemical factors. In conclusion, this paper discusses and explores how biological mediators influence the differential behaviour of chondrocytes under mechanical loads in healthy and primary OA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Segarra-Queralt
- BCN MedTech, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, C/ de la Mercè, 12, Barcelona, 08002, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Katherine Crump
- Tissue Engineering for Orthopaedics & Mechanobiology, Bone & Joint Program, Department for BioMedical Research (DBMR), Medical Faculty, University of Bern, Murtenstrasse 35, Bern, 3008, Bern, Switzerland; Graduate School for Cellular and Biomedical Sciences (GCB), University of Bern, Mittelstrasse 43, Bern, 3012, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Andreu Pascuet-Fontanet
- BCN MedTech, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, C/ de la Mercè, 12, Barcelona, 08002, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Benjamin Gantenbein
- Tissue Engineering for Orthopaedics & Mechanobiology, Bone & Joint Program, Department for BioMedical Research (DBMR), Medical Faculty, University of Bern, Murtenstrasse 35, Bern, 3008, Bern, Switzerland; Department of Orthopedic Surgery & Traumatology, Inselspital, University of Bern, Freiburgstrasse 18, Bern, 3010, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Jérôme Noailly
- BCN MedTech, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, C/ de la Mercè, 12, Barcelona, 08002, Catalonia, Spain.
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Pinto-Cardoso R, Bessa-Andrês C, Correia-de-Sá P, Bernardo Noronha-Matos J. Could hypoxia rehabilitate the osteochondral diseased interface? Lessons from the interplay of hypoxia and purinergic signals elsewhere. Biochem Pharmacol 2023:115646. [PMID: 37321413 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Revised: 06/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The osteochondral unit comprises the articular cartilage (90%), subchondral bone (5%) and calcified cartilage (5%). All cells present at the osteochondral unit that is ultimately responsible for matrix production and osteochondral homeostasis, such as chondrocytes, osteoblasts, osteoclasts and osteocytes, can release adenine and/or uracil nucleotides to the local microenvironment. Nucleotides are released by these cells either constitutively or upon plasma membrane damage, mechanical stress or hypoxia conditions. Once in the extracellular space, endogenously released nucleotides can activate membrane-bound purinoceptors. Activation of these receptors is fine-tuning regulated by nucleotides' breakdown by enzymes of the ecto-nucleotidase cascade. Depending on the pathophysiological conditions, both the avascular cartilage and the subchondral bone subsist to significant changes in oxygen tension, which has a tremendous impact on tissue homeostasis. Cell stress due to hypoxic conditions directly influences the expression and activity of several purinergic signalling players, namely nucleotide release channels (e.g. Cx43), NTPDase enzymes and purinoceptors. This review gathers experimental evidence concerning the interplay between hypoxia and the purinergic signalling cascade contributing to osteochondral unit homeostasis. Reporting deviations to this relationship resulting from pathological alterations of articular joints may ultimately unravel novel therapeutic targets for osteochondral rehabilitation. At this point, one can only hypothesize how hypoxia mimetic conditions can be beneficial to the ex vivo expansion and differentiation of osteo- and chondro-progenitors for auto-transplantation and tissue regenerative purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Pinto-Cardoso
- Laboratório de Farmacologia e Neurobiologia; Center for Drug Discovery and Innovative Medicines (MedInUP), Departamento de Imuno-Fisiologia e Farmacologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar - Universidade do Porto (ICBAS-UP)
| | - Catarina Bessa-Andrês
- Laboratório de Farmacologia e Neurobiologia; Center for Drug Discovery and Innovative Medicines (MedInUP), Departamento de Imuno-Fisiologia e Farmacologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar - Universidade do Porto (ICBAS-UP)
| | - Paulo Correia-de-Sá
- Laboratório de Farmacologia e Neurobiologia; Center for Drug Discovery and Innovative Medicines (MedInUP), Departamento de Imuno-Fisiologia e Farmacologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar - Universidade do Porto (ICBAS-UP)
| | - José Bernardo Noronha-Matos
- Laboratório de Farmacologia e Neurobiologia; Center for Drug Discovery and Innovative Medicines (MedInUP), Departamento de Imuno-Fisiologia e Farmacologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar - Universidade do Porto (ICBAS-UP).
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Zappalà A, Romano IR, D’Angeli F, Musumeci G, Lo Furno D, Giuffrida R, Mannino G. Functional Roles of Connexins and Gap Junctions in Osteo-Chondral Cellular Components. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24044156. [PMID: 36835567 PMCID: PMC9967557 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24044156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Gap junctions (GJs) formed by connexins (Cxs) play an important role in the intercellular communication within most body tissues. In this paper, we focus on GJs and Cxs present in skeletal tissues. Cx43 is the most expressed connexin, participating in the formation of both GJs for intercellular communication and hemichannels (HCs) for communication with the external environment. Through GJs in long dendritic-like cytoplasmic processes, osteocytes embedded in deep lacunae are able to form a functional syncytium not only with neighboring osteocytes but also with bone cells located at the bone surface, despite the surrounding mineralized matrix. The functional syncytium allows a coordinated cell activity through the wide propagation of calcium waves, nutrients and anabolic and/or catabolic factors. Acting as mechanosensors, osteocytes are able to transduce mechanical stimuli into biological signals that spread through the syncytium to orchestrate bone remodeling. The fundamental role of Cxs and GJs is confirmed by a plethora of investigations that have highlighted how up- and downregulation of Cxs and GJs critically influence skeletal development and cartilage functions. A better knowledge of GJ and Cx mechanisms in physiological and pathological conditions might help in developing therapeutic approaches aimed at the treatment of human skeletal system disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agata Zappalà
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Ivana Roberta Romano
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Floriana D’Angeli
- Department of Human Sciences and Quality of Life Promotion, San Raffaele Roma Open University, 00166 Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Musumeci
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Debora Lo Furno
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
- Correspondence: (D.L.F.); (R.G.)
| | - Rosario Giuffrida
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
- Correspondence: (D.L.F.); (R.G.)
| | - Giuliana Mannino
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, 98122 Messina, Italy
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Zheng J, Wyse Jackson T, Fortier LA, Bonassar LJ, Delco ML, Cohen I. STRAINS: A big data method for classifying cellular response to stimuli at the tissue scale. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0278626. [PMID: 36480531 PMCID: PMC9731430 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0278626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cellular response to stimulation governs tissue scale processes ranging from growth and development to maintaining tissue health and initiating disease. To determine how cells coordinate their response to such stimuli, it is necessary to simultaneously track and measure the spatiotemporal distribution of their behaviors throughout the tissue. Here, we report on a novel SpatioTemporal Response Analysis IN Situ (STRAINS) tool that uses fluorescent micrographs, cell tracking, and machine learning to measure such behavioral distributions. STRAINS is broadly applicable to any tissue where fluorescence can be used to indicate changes in cell behavior. For illustration, we use STRAINS to simultaneously analyze the mechanotransduction response of 5000 chondrocytes-over 20 million data points-in cartilage during the 50 ms to 4 hours after the tissue was subjected to local mechanical injury, known to initiate osteoarthritis. We find that chondrocytes exhibit a range of mechanobiological responses indicating activation of distinct biochemical pathways with clear spatial patterns related to the induced local strains during impact. These results illustrate the power of this approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingyang Zheng
- Department of Physics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Thomas Wyse Jackson
- Department of Physics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States of America
| | - Lisa A. Fortier
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States of America
| | - Lawrence J. Bonassar
- Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States of America
- Sibley School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States of America
| | - Michelle L. Delco
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States of America
| | - Itai Cohen
- Department of Physics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States of America
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5
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Gille J, Körner V, Oheim R, Paech A, Mittelstädt H, Schulz AP, Schagemann J. Dynamic Postural Stability after Cartilage Repair in the Knee. Open Orthop J 2022. [DOI: 10.2174/18743250-v16-e2206300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background:
Articular cartilage has an exceptionally poor capacity for healing, but Autologous Matrix Induced Chondrogenesis is a procedure with a substantial body of literature that demonstrates its performance in chondral and osteochondral repair. However, data concerning dynamic postural stability after cartilage repair procedures is lacking.
Objective:
Therefore, the present study was designed to assess postural stability following cartilage repair in the knee.
Methods:
20 adults had undergone Autologous Matrix Induced Chondrogenesis for the treatment of full-thickness cartilage defects, with minimum 36 months of follow-up. Clinical outcomes were evaluated by patient reported outcome measures while dynamic postural stability was assessed using the star excursion balance test. The untreated, contralateral limbs served as controls.
Results:
At a mean follow-up of 43 months, patients reported a Visual Analog Score for pain of 1.6±2.2, a mean Lysholm score of 78.5±17.9 and a mean Knee Osteoarthritis Outcome Score of 143.3±16.1. The star excursion balance test showed no significant difference between limbs.
Conclusion:
With no difference in dynamic postural stability, our results indicate that this treatment provides a positive clinical outcome, with no deficits in postural stability when compared to the contralateral, untreated leg.
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Willantarra I, Leung S, Choi YS, Chhana A, McGlashan SR. Chondrocyte-specific response to stiffness-mediated primary cilia formation and centriole positioning. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2022; 323:C236-C247. [PMID: 35649254 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00135.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Mechanical stress and the stiffness of the extracellular matrix are key drivers of tissue development and homeostasis. Aberrant mechanosensation is associated with a wide range of pathologies, including osteoarthritis. Matrix (or substrate) stiffness plays a major role in cell spreading, adhesion, proliferation and differentiation. However, how specific cells sense substrate stiffness still remains unclude. The primary cilium is an essential cellular organelle that senses and integrates mechanical and chemical signals from the extracellular environment. We hypothesised that the primary cilium dynamically alters its length and position to fine-tune cell mechanosignalling based on substrate stiffness alone. We used a hydrogel system of varying substrate stiffness to examine the role of stiffness on cilia frequency, length and centriole position as well as cell and nuclei area over time. Contrary to other cell types, we show that chondrocyte primary cilia shorten on softer substrates demonstrating tissue-specific mechanosensing which is aligned with the tissue stiffness the cells originate from. We further show that stiffness determines centriole positioning to either the basal or apical membrane during attachment and spreading, with centriole positioned towards the basal membrane on stiffer substrates. These phenomena are mediated by force generation actin-myosin stress fibres in a time-dependent manner. Finally we show on stiff substrates, that primary cilia are involved in tension-mediated cell spreading. We propose that substrate stiffness plays a role in cilia positioning, regulating cellular responses to external forces, and may be a key driver of mechanosignalling-associated diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivanna Willantarra
- Department of Anatomy and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Sophia Leung
- Department of Anatomy and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Yu Suk Choi
- School of Human Sciences, University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Ashika Chhana
- Department of Anatomy and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Sue R McGlashan
- Department of Anatomy and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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7
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Hodgkinson T, Amado IN, O'Brien FJ, Kennedy OD. The role of mechanobiology in bone and cartilage model systems in characterizing initiation and progression of osteoarthritis. APL Bioeng 2022. [DOI: 10.1063/5.0068277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Tom Hodgkinson
- Department of Anatomy and Regenerative Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Isabel N. Amado
- Department of Anatomy and Regenerative Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Fergal J. O'Brien
- Department of Anatomy and Regenerative Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
- Advanced Materials Bio-Engineering Research Centre (AMBER), Dublin, Ireland
- Trinity Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Oran D. Kennedy
- Department of Anatomy and Regenerative Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
- Advanced Materials Bio-Engineering Research Centre (AMBER), Dublin, Ireland
- Trinity Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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8
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Lithium chloride-induced primary cilia recovery enhances biosynthetic response of chondrocytes to mechanical stimulation. Biomech Model Mechanobiol 2022; 21:605-614. [DOI: 10.1007/s10237-021-01551-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
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9
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An S, Zheng S, Cai Z, Chen S, Wang C, Li Y, Deng Z. Connexin43 in Musculoskeletal System: New Targets for Development and Disease Progression. Aging Dis 2022; 13:1715-1732. [DOI: 10.14336/ad.2022.0421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
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10
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Larrañaga-Vera A, Marco-Bonilla M, Largo R, Herrero-Beaumont G, Mediero A, Cronstein B. ATP transporters in the joints. Purinergic Signal 2021; 17:591-605. [PMID: 34392490 PMCID: PMC8677878 DOI: 10.1007/s11302-021-09810-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Extracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP) plays a central role in a wide variety of joint diseases. ATP is generated intracellularly, and the concentration of the extracellular ATP pool is determined by the regulation of its transport out of the cell. A variety of ATP transporters have been described, with connexins and pannexins the most commonly cited. Both form intercellular channels, known as gap junctions, that facilitate the transport of various small molecules between cells and mediate cell-cell communication. Connexins and pannexins also form pores, or hemichannels, that are permeable to certain molecules, including ATP. All joint tissues express one or more connexins and pannexins, and their expression is altered in some pathological conditions, such as osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA), indicating that they may be involved in the onset and progression of these pathologies. The aging of the global population, along with increases in the prevalence of obesity and metabolic dysfunction, is associated with a rising frequency of joint diseases along with the increased costs and burden of related illness. The modulation of connexins and pannexins represents an attractive therapeutic target in joint disease, but their complex regulation, their combination of gap-junction-dependent and -independent functions, and their interplay between gap junction and hemichannel formation are not yet fully elucidated. In this review, we try to shed light on the regulation of these proteins and their roles in ATP transport to the extracellular space in the context of joint disease, and specifically OA and RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ane Larrañaga-Vera
- Department of Medicine, Division of Translational Medicine, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Miguel Marco-Bonilla
- Bone and Joint Research Unit, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz UAM, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Raquel Largo
- Bone and Joint Research Unit, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz UAM, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Aránzazu Mediero
- Bone and Joint Research Unit, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz UAM, 28040, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Bruce Cronstein
- Department of Medicine, Division of Translational Medicine, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, USA
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Ishii T, Warabi E, Mann GE. Mechanisms underlying unidirectional laminar shear stress-mediated Nrf2 activation in endothelial cells: Amplification of low shear stress signaling by primary cilia. Redox Biol 2021; 46:102103. [PMID: 34425388 PMCID: PMC8379703 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2021.102103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Revised: 08/07/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Endothelial cells are sensitive to mechanical stress and respond differently to oscillatory flow versus unidirectional flow. This review highlights the mechanisms by which a wide range of unidirectional laminar shear stress induces activation of the redox sensitive antioxidant transcription factor nuclear factor-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) in cultured endothelial cells. We propose that fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and 15-Deoxy-Δ12,14-prostaglandin J2 (15d-PGJ2) are potential Nrf2 activators induced by laminar shear stress. Shear stress-dependent secretion of FGF-2 and its receptor-mediated signaling is tightly controlled, requiring neutrophil elastase released by shear stress, αvβ3 integrin and the cell surface glycocalyx. We speculate that primary cilia respond to low laminar shear stress (<10 dyn/cm2), resulting in secretion of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), which facilitates αvβ3 integrin-dependent FGF-2 secretion. Shear stress induces generation of heparan-binding epidermal growth factor-like growth factor (HB-EGF), which contributes to FGF-2 secretion and gene expression. Furthermore, HB-EGF signaling modulates FGF-2-mediated NADPH oxidase 1 activation that favors casein kinase 2 (CK2)-mediated phosphorylation/activation of Nrf2 associated with caveolin 1 in caveolae. Higher shear stress (>15 dyn/cm2) induces vesicular exocytosis of BDNF from endothelial cells, and we propose that BDNF via the p75NTR receptor could induce CK2-mediated Nrf2 activation. Unidirectional laminar shear stress upregulates gene expression of FGF-2 and BDNF and generation of 15d-PGJ2, which cooperate in sustaining Nrf2 activation to protect endothelial cells against oxidative damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tetsuro Ishii
- School of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8577, Japan.
| | - Eiji Warabi
- School of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8577, Japan.
| | - Giovanni E Mann
- King's British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, School of Cardiovascular Medicine & Sciences, King's College London, 150 Stamford Street, London, SE1 9NH, UK.
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Wu Z, Zhou C, Yuan Q, Zhang D, Xie J, Zou S. CTGF facilitates cell-cell communication in chondrocytes via PI3K/Akt signalling pathway. Cell Prolif 2021; 54:e13001. [PMID: 33522639 PMCID: PMC7941231 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.13001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Revised: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Purposes Gap junction intercellular communication (GJIC) is essential for articular cartilage to respond appropriately to physical or biological stimuli and maintain homeostasis. Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), identified as an endochondral ossification genetic factor, plays a vital role in cell proliferation, migration and adhesion. However, how CTGF regulates GJIC in chondrocytes is still unknown. This study aims to explore the effects of CTGF on GJIC in chondrocytes and its potential biomechanism. Materials and methods qPCR was performed to determine the expression of gene profile in the CCN family in chondrocytes. After CTGF treatment, CCK‐8 assay and scratch assay were performed to explore cell proliferation and migration. A scrape loading/dye transfer assay was adopted to visualize GJIC in living chondrocytes. Western blot analysis was done to detect the expression of Cx43 and PI3K/Akt signalling. Immunofluorescence staining was used to show protein distribution. siRNA targeting CTGF was used to detect the influence on cell‐cell communication. Results The CTGF (CCN2) was shown to be the highest expressed member of the CCN family in chondrocytes. CTGF facilitated functional gap junction intercellular communication in chondrocytes through up‐regulation of Cx43 expressions. CTGF activated PI3K/Akt signalling to promote Akt phosphorylation and translocation. Suppressing CTGF also reduced the expression of Cx43. The inhibition of PI3K/Akt signalling decreased the expressions of Cx43 and thus impaired gap junction intercellular communication enhanced by CTGF. Conclusions For the first time, we provide evidence to show CTGF facilitates cell communication in chondrocytes via PI3K/Akt signalling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuping Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Chenchen Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Quan Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Demao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jing Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Shujuan Zou
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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13
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Cai L, Liu W, Cui Y, Liu Y, Du W, Zheng L, Pi C, Zhang D, Xie J, Zhou X. Biomaterial Stiffness Guides Cross-talk between Chondrocytes: Implications for a Novel Cellular Response in Cartilage Tissue Engineering. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2020; 6:4476-4489. [PMID: 33455172 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.0c00367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The exquisite cartilage architecture maintains an orderly dynamic equilibrium as a result of the interplay between chondrocyte functions and the unique extracellular matrix (ECM) microenvironment. Numerous studies have demonstrated that extracellular cues, including topological, mechanical, and biochemical properties of the underlying substrates, dictate the chondrocyte behaviors. Consequently, developing advanced biomaterials with the desired characteristics which could achieve the biointerface between cells and the surrounded matrix close to the physiological conditions becomes a great hotspot in bioengineering. However, how the substrate stiffness influences the intercellular communication among chondrocytes is still poorly reported. We used polydimethylsiloxane with varied stiffnesses as a cell culture substrate to elucidate a novel cell-to-cell communication in a collective of chondrocytes. First, morphological images collected using scanning electron microscopy revealed that the tunable substrate stiffnesses directed the changes in intercellular links among chondrocytes. Next, fibronectin, which played a vital role in the connection of ECM components or linkage of ECM to chondrocytes, was shown to be gathered along cell-cell contact areas and was changed with the tunable substrate stiffnesses. Furthermore, transmembrane junctional proteins including connexin 43 (Cx43) and pannexin 1 (Panx1), which are responsible for gap junction formation in cell-to-cell communication, were mediated by the tunable substrate stiffnesses. Finally, through a scrape loading/dye transfer assay, we revealed cell-to-cell communication changes in a living chondrocyte population in response to the tunable substrate stiffnesses via cell-to-cell fluorescent molecule transport. Taken together, this novel cell-to-cell communication regulated by biomaterial stiffness could help us to increase the understanding of cell behaviors under biomechanical control and may ultimately lead to refining cell-based cartilage tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linyi Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Wenjing Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yujia Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Wei Du
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Liwei Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Caixia Pi
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Demao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Jing Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Xuedong Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
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Szustak M, Gendaszewska-Darmach E. Extracellular Nucleotides Selectively Induce Migration of Chondrocytes and Expression of Type II Collagen. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21155227. [PMID: 32718031 PMCID: PMC7432683 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21155227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2020] [Revised: 07/20/2020] [Accepted: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The migration of chondrocytes from healthy to injured tissues is one of the most important challenges during cartilage repair. Additionally, maintenance of the chondrogenic phenotype remains another limitation, especially during monolayer culture in vitro. Using both the differentiated and undifferentiated chondrogenic ATDC5 cell line, we showed that extracellular nucleotides are able to increase the migration rate of chondrocytes without affecting their chondrogenic phenotype. We checked the potency of natural nucleotides (ATP, ADP, UTP, and UDP) as well as their stable phosphorothioate analogs, containing a sulfur atom in the place of one nonbridging oxygen atom in a phosphate group. We also detected P2y1, P2y2, P2y4, P2y6, P2y12, P2y13, and P2y14 mRNA transcripts for nucleotide receptors, demonstrating that P2y1 and P2y13 are highly upregulated in differentiated ATDC5 cells. We showed that ADPβS, UDPβS, and ADP are the best stimulators of migration of differentiated chondrocytes. Additionally, ADP and ADPβS positively affected the expression of type II collagen, a structural component of the cartilage matrix.
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Disorganization of chondrocyte columns in the growth plate does not aggravate experimental osteoarthritis in mice. Sci Rep 2020; 10:10745. [PMID: 32612184 PMCID: PMC7329885 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-67518-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 06/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a multifactorial joint disease mainly affecting articular cartilage (AC) with a relevant biomechanical component. During endochondral ossification growth plate (GP) chondrocytes arrange in columns. GPs do not ossify in skeletally mature rodents. In neonatal mice, an altered joint loading induces GP chondrocyte disorganization. We aimed to study whether experimental OA involves GP disorganization in adult mice and to assess if it may have additional detrimental effects on AC damage. Knee OA was induced by destabilization of the medial meniscus (DMM) in wild-type (WT) adult mice, and in Tamoxifen-inducible Ellis-van-Creveld syndrome protein (Evc) knockouts (EvccKO), used as a model of GP disorganization due to Hedgehog signalling disruption. Chondrocyte column arrangement was assessed in the tibial GP and expressed as Column Index (CI). Both DMM-operated WT mice and non-operated-EvccKO showed a decreased CI, indicating GP chondrocyte column disarrangement, although in the latter, it was not associated to AC damage. The most severe GP chondrocyte disorganization occurred in DMM-EvccKO mice, in comparison to the other groups. However, this altered GP structure in DMM-EvccKO mice did not exacerbate AC damage. Further studies are needed to confirm the lack of interference of GP alterations on the analysis of AC employing OA mice.
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K + and Ca 2+ Channels Regulate Ca 2+ Signaling in Chondrocytes: An Illustrated Review. Cells 2020; 9:cells9071577. [PMID: 32610485 PMCID: PMC7408816 DOI: 10.3390/cells9071577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2020] [Revised: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
An improved understanding of fundamental physiological principles and progressive pathophysiological processes in human articular joints (e.g., shoulders, knees, elbows) requires detailed investigations of two principal cell types: synovial fibroblasts and chondrocytes. Our studies, done in the past 8–10 years, have used electrophysiological, Ca2+ imaging, single molecule monitoring, immunocytochemical, and molecular methods to investigate regulation of the resting membrane potential (ER) and intracellular Ca2+ levels in human chondrocytes maintained in 2-D culture. Insights from these published papers are as follows: (1) Chondrocyte preparations express a number of different ion channels that can regulate their ER. (2) Understanding the basis for ER requires knowledge of (a) the presence or absence of ligand (ATP/histamine) stimulation and (b) the extraordinary ionic composition and ionic strength of synovial fluid. (3) In our chondrocyte preparations, at least two types of Ca2+-activated K+ channels are expressed and can significantly hyperpolarize ER. (4) Accounting for changes in ER can provide insights into the functional roles of the ligand-dependent Ca2+ influx through store-operated Ca2+ channels. Some of the findings are illustrated in this review. Our summary diagram suggests that, in chondrocytes, the K+ and Ca2+ channels are linked in a positive feedback loop that can augment Ca2+ influx and therefore regulate lubricant and cytokine secretion and gene transcription.
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Tao F, Jiang T, Tao H, Cao H, Xiang W. Primary cilia: Versatile regulator in cartilage development. Cell Prolif 2020; 53:e12765. [PMID: 32034931 PMCID: PMC7106963 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.12765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2019] [Revised: 11/21/2019] [Accepted: 12/29/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cartilage is a connective tissue in the skeletal system and has limited regeneration ability and unique biomechanical reactivity. The growth and development of cartilage can be affected by different physical, chemical and biological factors, such as mechanical stress, inflammation, osmotic pressure, hypoxia and signalling transduction. Primary cilia are multifunctional sensory organelles that regulate diverse signalling transduction and cell activities. They are crucial for the regulation of cartilage development and act in a variety of ways, such as react to mechanical stress, mediate signalling transduction, regulate cartilage‐related diseases progression and affect cartilage tumorigenesis. Therefore, research on primary cilia‐mediated cartilage growth and development is currently extremely popular. This review outlines the role of primary cilia in cartilage development in recent years and elaborates on the potential regulatory mechanisms from different aspects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fenghua Tao
- Department of Orthopedics, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Ting Jiang
- Department of Neurological Rehabilitation, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Hai Tao
- Department of Orthopedics, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Hui Cao
- Department of Orthopedics, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Wei Xiang
- Department of Orthopedics, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
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18
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Corciulo C, Cronstein BN. Signaling of the Purinergic System in the Joint. Front Pharmacol 2020; 10:1591. [PMID: 32038258 PMCID: PMC6993121 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.01591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2019] [Accepted: 12/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The joint is a complex anatomical structure consisting of different tissues, each with a particular feature, playing together to give mobility and stability at the body. All the joints have a similar composition including cartilage for reducing the friction of the movement and protecting the underlying bone, a synovial membrane that produces synovial fluid to lubricate the joint, ligaments to limit joint movement, and tendons for the interaction with muscles. Direct or indirect damage of one or more of the tissues forming the joint is the foundation of different pathological conditions. Many molecular mechanisms are involved in maintaining the joint homeostasis as well as in triggering disease development. The molecular pathway activated by the purinergic system is one of them.The purinergic signaling defines a group of receptors and intermembrane channels activated by adenosine, adenosine diphosphate, adenosine 5’-triphosphate, uridine triphosphate, and uridine diphosphate. It has been largely described as a modulator of many physiological and pathological conditions including rheumatic diseases. Here we will give an overview of the purinergic system in the joint describing its expression and function in the synovium, cartilage, ligament, tendon, and bone with a therapeutic perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Corciulo
- Division of Translational Medicine, Department of Medicine, NYU School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States.,Krefting Research Centre-Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Nutrition, Institute of Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Bruce N Cronstein
- Division of Translational Medicine, Department of Medicine, NYU School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States.,Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, NYU School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
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19
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He J, Zheng S. NF-κB Phosphorylation Inhibition Prevents Articular Cartilage Degradation in Osteoarthritis Rats via 2-Aminoquinoline. Med Sci Monit 2020; 26:e920346. [PMID: 31978040 PMCID: PMC6998790 DOI: 10.12659/msm.920346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Osteoarthritis is a chronic degenerative disease of the joints that is common in older people worldwide. The characteristic features of osteoarthritis include cartilage degradation, synovitis, and remodelling of subchondral bone. The present study investigated the effect of 2-aminoquinoline on knee articular cartilage degradation in an osteoarthritis rat model. Material/Methods The rat model of osteoarthritis was established in Wistar rats by intra-articular injection of monosodium iodoacetate. The rats were randomly divided into 6 groups of 10 rats each: a normal control group, an untreated group, and 4 (5, 10, 15 and 20 mg/kg) treatment groups. The rats in treatment groups received 5, 10, 15, or 20 mg/kg doses of 2-aminoquinoline on day 2 of monosodium iodoacetate injection. Results The 2-aminoquinoline treatment of monosodium iodoacetate-injected rats markedly decreased weight-bearing asymmetry, inhibited edema formation, and improved paw withdrawal thresholds. The expression of inflammatory cytokines was markedly higher in the osteoarthritis rats. Treatment with 2-aminoquinoline led to a significant reduction in inflammatory cytokine expression in osteoarthritis rats in a dose-dependent manner. In osteoarthritis rats, the expressions of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), matrix metalloproteinase-13 (MMP-13), and substance P were also higher in comparison to the control group. The 2-aminoquinoline treatment supressed PGE2, MMP-13, and substance P levels in osteoarthritis rats. Moreover, the expression of phosphorylated nuclear factor kappaB (p-NF-κB) was markedly higher in the untreated rats. However, activation of NF-κB was downregulated in the osteoarthritis rats by treatment with 2-aminoquinoline. Conclusions The present study demonstrated that 2-aminoquinoline prevents articular cartilage damage in osteoarthritis rats through inhibition of inflammatory factors and downregulation of NF-κB activation, suggesting that 2-aminoquinoline would be effective in treatment of osteoarthritis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinlong He
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Western Medicine Orthopedics, Honghui Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China (mainland)
| | - Shicheng Zheng
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Western Medicine Orthopedics, Honghui Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China (mainland)
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20
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Tee CA, Yang Z, Yin L, Wu Y, Han J, Lee EH. Improved zonal chondrocyte production protocol integrating size-based inertial spiral microchannel separation and dynamic microcarrier culture for clinical application. Biomaterials 2019; 220:119409. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2019.119409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2019] [Revised: 07/30/2019] [Accepted: 08/02/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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21
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Martínez-Moreno D, Jiménez G, Gálvez-Martín P, Rus G, Marchal JA. Cartilage biomechanics: A key factor for osteoarthritis regenerative medicine. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2019; 1865:1067-1075. [PMID: 30910703 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2019.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2018] [Revised: 03/18/2019] [Accepted: 03/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a joint disorder that is highly extended in the global population. Several researches and therapeutic strategies have been probed on OA but without satisfactory long-term results in joint replacement. Recent evidences show how the cartilage biomechanics plays a crucial role in tissue development. This review describes how physics alters cartilage and its extracellular matrix (ECM); and its role in OA development. The ECM of the articular cartilage (AC) is widely involved in cartilage turnover processes being crucial in regeneration and joint diseases. We also review the importance of physicochemical pathways following the external forces in AC. Moreover, new techniques probed in cartilage tissue engineering for biomechanical stimulation are reviewed. The final objective of these novel approaches is to create a cellular implant that maintains all the biochemical and biomechanical properties of the original tissue for long-term replacements in patients with OA.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Martínez-Moreno
- Biopathology and Regenerative Medicine Institute (IBIMER), Centre for Biomedical Research, University of Granada, Granada E-18100, Spain; Excellence Research Unit "Modeling Nature" (MNat), University of Granada, Spain
| | - G Jiménez
- Biopathology and Regenerative Medicine Institute (IBIMER), Centre for Biomedical Research, University of Granada, Granada E-18100, Spain; Excellence Research Unit "Modeling Nature" (MNat), University of Granada, Spain; Biosanitary Research Institute of Granada (ibs.GRANADA), University Hospitals of Granada-University of Granada, Granada E-18071, Spain; Department of Human Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Granada, Granada E-18016, Spain
| | - P Gálvez-Martín
- Advanced Therapies Area, Pharmascience Division, Bioibérica S.A.U., E-08029 Barcelona, Spain; Department of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Granada, Granada E-18071, Spain
| | - G Rus
- Biopathology and Regenerative Medicine Institute (IBIMER), Centre for Biomedical Research, University of Granada, Granada E-18100, Spain; Excellence Research Unit "Modeling Nature" (MNat), University of Granada, Spain; Department of Structural Mechanics, University of Granada, Politécnico de Fuentenueva, Granada E-18071, Spain.
| | - J A Marchal
- Biopathology and Regenerative Medicine Institute (IBIMER), Centre for Biomedical Research, University of Granada, Granada E-18100, Spain; Excellence Research Unit "Modeling Nature" (MNat), University of Granada, Spain; Biosanitary Research Institute of Granada (ibs.GRANADA), University Hospitals of Granada-University of Granada, Granada E-18071, Spain; Department of Human Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Granada, Granada E-18016, Spain.
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22
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Zhou Y, Lv M, Li T, Zhang T, Duncan R, Wang L, Lu XL. Spontaneous calcium signaling of cartilage cells: from spatiotemporal features to biophysical modeling. FASEB J 2019; 33:4675-4687. [PMID: 30601690 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201801460r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Intracellular calcium ([Ca2+]i) oscillation is a fundamental signaling response of cartilage cells under mechanical loading or osmotic stress. Chondrocytes are usually considered as nonexcitable cells with no spontaneous [Ca2+]i signaling. This study proved that chondrocytes can exhibit robust spontaneous [Ca2+]i signaling without explicit external stimuli. The intensity of [Ca2+]i peaks from individual chondrocytes maintain a consistent spatiotemporal pattern, acting as a unique "fingerprint" for each cell. Statistical analysis revealed lognormal distributions of the temporal parameters of [Ca2+]i peaks, as well as strong linear correlations between their means and sds. Based on these statistical findings, we hypothesized that the spontaneous [Ca2+]i peaks may result from an autocatalytic process and that [Ca2+]i oscillation is controlled by a threshold-regulating mechanism. To test these 2 mechanisms, we established a multistage biophysical model by assuming the spontaneous [Ca2+]i signaling of chondrocytes as a combination of deterministic and stochastic processes. The theoretical model successfully explained the lognormal distribution of the temporal parameters and the fingerprint feature of [Ca2+]i peaks. In addition, by using antagonists for 10 pathways, we revealed that the initiation of spontaneous [Ca2+]i peaks in chondrocytes requires the presence of extracellular Ca2+, and that the PLC-inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate pathway, which controls the release of calcium from the endoplasmic reticulum, can affect the initiation of spontaneous [Ca2+]i peaks in chondrocytes. The purinoceptors and transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 channels on the plasma membrane also play key roles in the spontaneous [Ca2+]i signaling of chondrocytes. In contrast, blocking the T-type or L-type voltage-gated calcium channel promoted the spontaneous calcium signaling. This study represents a systematic effort to understand the features and initiation mechanisms of spontaneous [Ca2+]i signaling in chondrocytes, which are critical for chondrocyte mechanobiology.-Zhou, Y., Lv, M., Li, T., Zhang, T., Duncan, R., Wang, L., Lu, X. L. Spontaneous calcium signaling of cartilage cells: from spatiotemporal features to biophysical modeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yilu Zhou
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware, USA
| | - Mengxi Lv
- Center for Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware, USA
| | - Tong Li
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware, USA.,Department of Engineering Mechanics, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, China; and
| | - Tiange Zhang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware, USA
| | - Randall Duncan
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware, USA
| | - Liyun Wang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware, USA
| | - X Lucas Lu
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware, USA
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23
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Wang Q, Zhou C, Li X, Cai L, Zou J, Zhang D, Xie J, Lai W. TGF-β1 promotes gap junctions formation in chondrocytes via Smad3/Smad4 signalling. Cell Prolif 2018; 52:e12544. [PMID: 30444057 PMCID: PMC6495951 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.12544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2018] [Revised: 09/04/2018] [Accepted: 09/21/2018] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives Connexin‐mediated functional gap junction intercellular communication (GJIC) has a vital role in development, homeostasis and pathology. Transforming growth factor‐β1 (TGF‐β1), as one of the most vital factors in chondrocytes, promotes cartilage precursor cell differentiation and chondrocyte proliferation, migration and metabolism. However, how TGF‐β1 mediates GJIC in chondrocytes remains unclear. This study aims to determine the influence of TGF‐β1 on GJIC in mouse chondrocytes and its underlying mechanism. Methods qPCR and mRNA microarray were used to verify the expression of genes in the TGF‐β and connexin families in cartilage and chondrocytes. A scrape loading/dye transfer assay was performed to explore GJIC. Western blot analysis was used to detect connexin43 (Cx43) and Smad signalling components. Immunofluorescence staining was performed to characterize protein distribution. Results The TGF‐β1 mRNA was the highest expressed member of the TGFβ super family in cartilage. TGF‐β1 promoted functional GJIC through increased expression of Cx43. TGF‐β1‐mediated GJIC required the participation of TGF‐β type I receptor. TGF‐β1 activated Smad3 and Smad4 signalling to facilitate their nuclear translocation. The Smad3 and Smad4 signalling proteins bound to the promoter of Gja1 and thus initiated Cx43 gene expression. Conclusions For the first time, these results revealed a vital role of TGF‐β1 in cell‐cell communication in chondrocytes via gap junction formation. We describe the regulatory mechanism, the involvement of TGF‐β type I receptor and the nuclear translocation of Smad3/4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingxuan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, Orthodontics Department, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Chenchen Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, Orthodontics Department, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaobing Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, Orthodontics Department, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Linyi Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, Orthodontics Department, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jing Zou
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, Orthodontics Department, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Demao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, Orthodontics Department, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jing Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, Orthodontics Department, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Wenli Lai
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, Orthodontics Department, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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24
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Maleckar MM, Clark RB, Votta B, Giles WR. The Resting Potential and K + Currents in Primary Human Articular Chondrocytes. Front Physiol 2018; 9:974. [PMID: 30233381 PMCID: PMC6131720 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2018.00974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2018] [Accepted: 07/03/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Human transplant programs provide significant opportunities for detailed in vitro assessments of physiological properties of selected tissues and cell types. We present a semi-quantitative study of the fundamental electrophysiological/biophysical characteristics of human chondrocytes, focused on K+ transport mechanisms, and their ability to regulate to the resting membrane potential, Em. Patch clamp studies on these enzymatically isolated human chondrocytes reveal consistent expression of at least three functionally distinct K+ currents, as well as transient receptor potential (TRP) currents. The small size of these cells and their exceptionally low current densities present significant technical challenges for electrophysiological recordings. These limitations have been addressed by parallel development of a mathematical model of these K+ and TRP channel ion transfer mechanisms in an attempt to reveal their contributions to Em. In combination, these experimental results and simulations yield new insights into: (i) the ionic basis for Em and its expected range of values; (ii) modulation of Em by the unique articular joint extracellular milieu; (iii) some aspects of TRP channel mediated depolarization-secretion coupling; (iv) some of the essential biophysical principles that regulate K+ channel function in “chondrons.” The chondron denotes the chondrocyte and its immediate extracellular compartment. The presence of discrete localized surface charges and associated zeta potentials at the chondrocyte surface are regulated by cell metabolism and can modulate interactions of chondrocytes with the extracellular matrix. Semi-quantitative analysis of these factors in chondrocyte/chondron function may yield insights into progressive osteoarthritis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary M Maleckar
- Simula Research Laboratory, Center for Biomedical Computing and Center for Cardiological Innovation, Oslo, Norway.,Allen Institute for Cell Science, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Robert B Clark
- Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | | | - Wayne R Giles
- Faculties of Kinesiology and Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
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25
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Zhu G, Chen Z, Dai B, Zheng C, Jiang H, Xu Y, Sheng X, Guo J, Dan Y, Liang S, Li G. Chronic lead exposure enhances the sympathoexcitatory response associated with P2X4 receptor in rat stellate ganglia. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2018; 33:631-639. [PMID: 29457680 DOI: 10.1002/tox.22547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2017] [Revised: 01/25/2018] [Accepted: 02/03/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Chronic lead exposure causes peripheral sympathetic nerve stimulation, including increased blood pressure and heart rate. Purinergic receptors are involved in the sympathoexcitatory response induced by myocardial ischemia injury. However, whether P2X4 receptor participates in sympathoexcitatory response induced by chronic lead exposure and the possible mechanisms are still unknown. The aim of this study was to explore the change of the sympathoexcitatory response induced by chronic lead exposure via the P2X4 receptor in the stellate ganglion (SG). Rats were given lead acetate through drinking water freely at doses of 0 g/L (control group), 0.5 g/L (low lead group), and 2 g/L (high lead group) for 1 year. Our results demonstrated that lead exposure caused autonomic nervous dysfunction, including blood pressure and heart rate increased and heart rate variability (HRV) decreased. Western blotting results indicated that after lead exposure, the protein expression levels in the SG of P2X4 receptor, IL-1β and Cx43 were up-regulated, the phosphorylation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) was activated. Real-time PCR results showed that the mRNA expression of P2X4 receptor in the SG was higher in lead exposure group than that in the control group. Double-labeled immunofluorescence results showed that P2X4 receptor was co-expressed with glutamine synthetase (GS), the marker of satellite glial cells (SGCs). These changes were positively correlated with the dose of lead exposure. The up-regulated expression of P2X4 receptor in SGCs of the SG maybe enhance the sympathoexcitatory response induced by chronic lead exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaochun Zhu
- Department of Anatomy, Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Zhenying Chen
- The Fourth Clinical, Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Bo Dai
- The Fourth Clinical, Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Chaoran Zheng
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Huaide Jiang
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Yurong Xu
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Xuan Sheng
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Jingjing Guo
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Yu Dan
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Shangdong Liang
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Guilin Li
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
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26
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P2X7 ionotropic receptor is functionally expressed in rabbit articular chondrocytes and mediates extracellular ATP cytotoxicity. Purinergic Signal 2018; 14:245-258. [PMID: 29845461 DOI: 10.1007/s11302-018-9611-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2017] [Accepted: 05/14/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Extracellular ATP regulates various cellular functions by engaging multiple subtypes of P2 purinergic receptors. In many cell types, the ionotropic P2X7 receptor mediates pathological events such as inflammation and cell death. However, the importance of this receptor in chondrocytes remains largely unexplored. Here, we report the functional identification of P2X7 receptor in articular chondrocytes and investigate the involvement of P2X7 receptors in ATP-induced cytotoxicity. Chondrocytes were isolated from rabbit articular cartilage, and P2X7 receptor currents were examined using the whole-cell patch-clamp technique. ATP-induced cytotoxicity was evaluated by measuring caspase-3/7 activity, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) leakage, and prostagrandin E2 (PGE2) release using microscopic and fluorimetric/colorimetric evaluation. Extracellular ATP readily evoked a cationic current without obvious desensitization. This ATP-activated current was dose related, but required millimolar concentrations. A more potent P2X7 receptor agonist, BzATP, also activated this current but at 100-fold lower concentrations. ATP-induced currents were largely abolished by selective P2X7 antagonists, suggesting a predominant role for the P2X7 receptor. RT-PCR confirmed the presence of P2X7 in chondrocytes. Heterologous expression of a rabbit P2X7 clone successfully reproduced the ATP-induced current. Exposure of chondrocytes to ATP increased caspase-3/7 activities, an effect that was totally abrogated by P2X7 receptor antagonists. Extracellular ATP also enhanced LDH release, which was partially attenuated by the P2X7 inhibitor. The P2X7 receptor-mediated elevation in apoptotic caspase signaling was accompanied by increased PGE2 release and was attenuated by inhibition of either phospholipase A2 or cyclooxygenase-2. This study provides direct evidence for the presence of functional P2X7 receptors in articular chondrocytes. Our results suggest that the P2X7 receptor is a potential therapeutic target in chondrocyte death associated with cartilage injury and disorders including osteoarthritis.
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Guilak F, Nims RJ, Dicks A, Wu CL, Meulenbelt I. Osteoarthritis as a disease of the cartilage pericellular matrix. Matrix Biol 2018; 71-72:40-50. [PMID: 29800616 DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2018.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 242] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2018] [Revised: 05/21/2018] [Accepted: 05/21/2018] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Osteoarthritis is a painful joint disease characterized by progressive degeneration of the articular cartilage as well as associated changes to the subchondral bone, synovium, and surrounding joint tissues. While the effects of osteoarthritis on the cartilage extracellular matrix (ECM) have been well recognized, it is now becoming apparent that in many cases, the onset of the disease may be initially reflected in the matrix region immediately surrounding the chondrocytes, termed the pericellular matrix (PCM). Growing evidence suggests that the PCM - which along with the enclosed chondrocytes are termed the "chondron" - acts as a critical transducer or "filter" of biochemical and biomechanical signals for the chondrocyte, serving to help regulate the homeostatic balance of chondrocyte metabolic activity in response to environmental signals. Indeed, it appears that alterations in PCM properties and cell-matrix interactions, secondary to genetic, epigenetic, metabolic, or biomechanical stimuli, could in fact serve as initiating or progressive factors for osteoarthritis. Here, we discuss recent advances in the understanding of the role of the PCM, with an emphasis on the reciprocity of changes that occur in this matrix region with disease, as well as how alterations in PCM properties could serve as a driver of ECM-based diseases such as osteoarthritis. Further study of the structure, function, and composition of the PCM in normal and diseased conditions may provide new insights into the understanding of the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis, and presumably new therapeutic approaches for this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farshid Guilak
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Washington University, Saint Louis, MO 63110, United States; Shriners Hospitals for Children - St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63110, United States; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University, Saint Louis, MO 63110, United States.
| | - Robert J Nims
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Washington University, Saint Louis, MO 63110, United States; Shriners Hospitals for Children - St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63110, United States
| | - Amanda Dicks
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Washington University, Saint Louis, MO 63110, United States; Shriners Hospitals for Children - St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63110, United States; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University, Saint Louis, MO 63110, United States
| | - Chia-Lung Wu
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Washington University, Saint Louis, MO 63110, United States; Shriners Hospitals for Children - St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63110, United States
| | - Ingrid Meulenbelt
- Department of Molecular Epidemiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
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Pérez Armendariz EM, Norcini M, Hernández-Tellez B, Castell-Rodríguez A, Coronel-Cruz C, Alquicira RG, Sideris A, Recio-Pinto E. Neurons and satellite glial cells in adult rat lumbar dorsal root ganglia express connexin 36. Acta Histochem 2018; 120:168-178. [PMID: 29224922 DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2017.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2017] [Revised: 11/02/2017] [Accepted: 11/15/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Previous studies have shown that following peripheral nerve injury there was a downregulation of the gap junction protein connexin 36 (Cx36) in the spinal cord; however, it is not known whether Cx36 protein is expressed in the dorsal root ganglia (DRGs), nor if its levels are altered following peripheral nerve injuries. Here we address these aspects in the adult rat lumbar DRG. Cx36 mRNA was detected using qRT-PCR, and Cx36 protein was identified in DRG sections using immunohistochemistry (IHC) and immunofluorescence (IF). Double staining revealed that Cx36 co-localizes with both anti-β-III tubulin, a neuronal marker, and anti-glutamine synthetase, a satellite glial cell (SGC) marker. In neurons, Cx36 staining was mostly uniform in somata and fibers of all sizes and its intensity increased at the cell membranes. This labeling pattern was in contrast with Cx36 IF dots mainly found at junctional membranes in islet beta cells used as a control tissue. Co-staining with anti-Cx43 and anti-Cx36 showed that whereas mostly uniform staining of Cx36 was found throughout neurons and SGCs, Cx43 IF puncta were localized to SGCs. Cx36 mRNA was expressed in normal lumbar DRG, and it was significantly down-regulated in L4 DRG of rats that underwent sciatic nerve injury resulting in persistent hypersensitivity. Collectively, these findings demonstrated that neurons and SGCs express Cx36 protein in normal DRG, and suggested that perturbation of Cx36 levels may contribute to chronic neuropathic pain resulting from a peripheral nerve injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Martha Pérez Armendariz
- Departamento de Biología Celular y Tisular, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Torre de Investigación 5to piso, Avenida Universidad 3000, Circuito Interior, Ciudad Universitaria, Colonia Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, CU, D.F., 04510, Mexico.
| | - Monica Norcini
- Department of Anesthesiology, NYULMC, 180 Varick Street, Room 677, New York, NY 10014, USA.
| | - Beatriz Hernández-Tellez
- Departamento de Biología Celular y Tisular, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Torre de Investigación 5to piso, Avenida Universidad 3000, Circuito Interior, Ciudad Universitaria, Colonia Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, CU, D.F., 04510, Mexico.
| | - Andrés Castell-Rodríguez
- Departamento de Biología Celular y Tisular, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Torre de Investigación 5to piso, Avenida Universidad 3000, Circuito Interior, Ciudad Universitaria, Colonia Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, CU, D.F., 04510, Mexico.
| | - Cristina Coronel-Cruz
- Departamento de Biología Celular y Tisular, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Torre de Investigación 5to piso, Avenida Universidad 3000, Circuito Interior, Ciudad Universitaria, Colonia Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, CU, D.F., 04510, Mexico.
| | - Raquel Guerrero Alquicira
- Departamento de Biología Celular y Tisular, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Torre de Investigación 5to piso, Avenida Universidad 3000, Circuito Interior, Ciudad Universitaria, Colonia Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, CU, D.F., 04510, Mexico.
| | - Alexandra Sideris
- Department of Anesthesiology, NYULMC, 180 Varick Street, Room 677, New York, NY 10014, USA.
| | - Esperanza Recio-Pinto
- Department of Anesthesiology, NYULMC, 180 Varick Street, Room 677, New York, NY 10014, USA; Departments of Anesthesiology, Biochemistry & Molecular Pharmacology, NYULMC, 180 Varick Street, Room 677, New York, NY 10014 USA.
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Varela-Eirin M, Loureiro J, Fonseca E, Corrochano S, Caeiro JR, Collado M, Mayan MD. Cartilage regeneration and ageing: Targeting cellular plasticity in osteoarthritis. Ageing Res Rev 2018; 42:56-71. [PMID: 29258883 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2017.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 136] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2017] [Revised: 10/20/2017] [Accepted: 12/15/2017] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Ageing processes play a major contributing role for the development of Osteoarthritis (OA). This prototypic degenerative condition of ageing is the most common form of arthritis and is accompanied by a general decline, chronic pain and mobility deficits. The disease is primarily characterized by articular cartilage degradation, followed by subchondral bone thickening, osteophyte formation, synovial inflammation and joint degeneration. In the early stages, osteoarthritic chondrocytes undergo phenotypic changes that increase cell proliferation and cluster formation and enhance the production of matrix-remodelling enzymes. In fact, chondrocytes exhibit differentiation plasticity and undergo phenotypic changes during the healing process. Current studies are focusing on unravelling whether OA is a consequence of an abnormal wound healing response. Recent investigations suggest that alterations in different proteins, such as TGF-ß/BMPs, NF-Kß, Wnt, and Cx43, or SASP factors involved in signalling pathways in wound healing response, could be directly implicated in the initiation of OA. Several findings suggest that osteoarthritic chondrocytes remain in an immature state expressing stemness-associated cell surface markers. In fact, the efficacy of new disease-modifying OA drugs that promote chondrogenic differentiation in animal models indicates that this may be a drug-sensible state. In this review, we highlight the current knowledge regarding cellular plasticity in chondrocytes and OA. A better comprehension of the mechanisms involved in these processes may enable us to understand the molecular pathways that promote abnormal repair and cartilage degradation in OA. This understanding would be advantageous in identifying novel targets and designing therapies to promote effective cartilage repair and successful joint ageing by preventing functional limitations and disability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Varela-Eirin
- CellCOM research group, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de A Coruña (INIBIC), Servizo Galego de Saúde (SERGAS), Universidade da Coruña (UDC), Xubias de Arriba, 84, 15006 A Coruña, Spain
| | - Jesus Loureiro
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology, Complexo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela (CHUS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela (USC), Choupana s/n, 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Eduardo Fonseca
- CellCOM research group, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de A Coruña (INIBIC), Servizo Galego de Saúde (SERGAS), Universidade da Coruña (UDC), Xubias de Arriba, 84, 15006 A Coruña, Spain
| | | | - Jose R Caeiro
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology, Complexo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela (CHUS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela (USC), Choupana s/n, 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Manuel Collado
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Complexo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela (CHUS), SERGAS, Choupana s/n, 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Maria D Mayan
- CellCOM research group, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de A Coruña (INIBIC), Servizo Galego de Saúde (SERGAS), Universidade da Coruña (UDC), Xubias de Arriba, 84, 15006 A Coruña, Spain.
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Gago-Fuentes R, Bechberger JF, Varela-Eirin M, Varela-Vazquez A, Acea B, Fonseca E, Naus CC, Mayan MD. The C-terminal domain of connexin43 modulates cartilage structure via chondrocyte phenotypic changes. Oncotarget 2018; 7:73055-73067. [PMID: 27682878 PMCID: PMC5341963 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.12197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2016] [Accepted: 09/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Chondrocytes in cartilage and bone cells population express connexin43 (Cx43) and gap junction intercellular communication (GJIC) is essential to synchronize cells for coordinated electrical, mechanical, metabolic and chemical communication in both tissues. Reduced Cx43 connectivity decreases chondrocyte differentiation and defective Cx43 causes skeletal defects. The carboxy terminal domain (CTD) of Cx43 is located in the cytoplasmic side and is key for protein functions. Here we demonstrated that chondrocytes from the CTD-deficient mice, K258stop/Cx43KO and K258stop/K258stop, have reduced GJIC, increased rates of proliferation and reduced expression of collagen type II and proteoglycans. We observed that CTD-truncated mice were significantly smaller in size. Together these results demonstrated that the deletion of the CTD negatively impacts cartilage structure and normal chondrocyte phenotype. These findings suggest that the proteolytic cleavage of the CTD under pathological conditions, such as under the activation of metalloproteinases during tissue injury or inflammation, may account for the deleterious effects of Cx43 in cartilage and bone disorders such as osteoarthritis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raquel Gago-Fuentes
- CellCOM-SB Research Group, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de A Coruña (INIBIC), CH-Universitario A Coruña (XXIAC), University of A Coruña, Servizo Galego de Saúde (SERGAS), Xubias de Arriba, 84 15006 A Coruña, Spain
| | - John F Bechberger
- Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, The Life Sciences Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, V6T 1Z3
| | - Marta Varela-Eirin
- CellCOM-SB Research Group, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de A Coruña (INIBIC), CH-Universitario A Coruña (XXIAC), University of A Coruña, Servizo Galego de Saúde (SERGAS), Xubias de Arriba, 84 15006 A Coruña, Spain
| | - Adrian Varela-Vazquez
- CellCOM-SB Research Group, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de A Coruña (INIBIC), CH-Universitario A Coruña (XXIAC), University of A Coruña, Servizo Galego de Saúde (SERGAS), Xubias de Arriba, 84 15006 A Coruña, Spain
| | - Benigno Acea
- CellCOM-SB Research Group, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de A Coruña (INIBIC), CH-Universitario A Coruña (XXIAC), University of A Coruña, Servizo Galego de Saúde (SERGAS), Xubias de Arriba, 84 15006 A Coruña, Spain
| | - Eduardo Fonseca
- CellCOM-SB Research Group, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de A Coruña (INIBIC), CH-Universitario A Coruña (XXIAC), University of A Coruña, Servizo Galego de Saúde (SERGAS), Xubias de Arriba, 84 15006 A Coruña, Spain
| | - Christian C Naus
- Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, The Life Sciences Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, V6T 1Z3
| | - Maria D Mayan
- CellCOM-SB Research Group, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de A Coruña (INIBIC), CH-Universitario A Coruña (XXIAC), University of A Coruña, Servizo Galego de Saúde (SERGAS), Xubias de Arriba, 84 15006 A Coruña, Spain
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Mobasheri A, Matta C, Uzielienè I, Budd E, Martín-Vasallo P, Bernotiene E. The chondrocyte channelome: A narrative review. Joint Bone Spine 2018; 86:29-35. [PMID: 29452304 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbspin.2018.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2017] [Accepted: 01/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Chondrocytes are the main cells in the extracellular matrix (ECM) of articular cartilage and possess a highly differentiated phenotype that is the hallmark of the unique physiological functions of this specialised load-bearing connective tissue. The plasma membrane of articular chondrocytes contains a rich and diverse complement of membrane proteins, known as the membranome, which defines the cell surface phenotype of the cells. The membranome is a key target of pharmacological agents and is important for chondrocyte function. It includes channels, transporters, enzymes, receptors, and anchors for intracellular, cytoskeletal and ECM proteins and other macromolecular complexes. The chondrocyte channelome is a sub-compartment of the membranome and includes a complete set of ion channels and porins expressed in these cells. Many of these are multi-functional proteins with "moonlighting" roles, serving as channels, receptors and signalling components of larger molecular assemblies. The aim of this review is to summarise our current knowledge of the fundamental aspects of the chondrocyte channelome, discuss its relevance to cartilage biology and highlight its possible role in the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis (OA). Excessive and inappropriate mechanical loads, an inflammatory micro-environment, alternative splicing of channel components or accumulation of basic calcium phosphate crystals can result in an altered chondrocyte channelome impairing its function. Alterations in Ca2+ signalling may lead to defective synthesis of ECM macromolecules and aggravated catabolic responses in chondrocytes, which is an important and relatively unexplored aspect of the complex and poorly understood mechanism of OA development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Mobasheri
- Department of Veterinary Pre-Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey, United Kingdom; Arthritis Research UK Centre for Sport, Exercise and Osteoarthritis, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, United Kingdom; Department of Regenerative Medicine, State Research Institute Centre for Innovative Medicine, Vilnius, Lithuania.
| | - Csaba Matta
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Ilona Uzielienè
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, State Research Institute Centre for Innovative Medicine, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Emma Budd
- Department of Veterinary Pre-Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey, United Kingdom
| | - Pablo Martín-Vasallo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Eiva Bernotiene
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, State Research Institute Centre for Innovative Medicine, Vilnius, Lithuania
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32
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Gadjanski I. Mimetic Hierarchical Approaches for Osteochondral Tissue Engineering. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2018; 1058:143-170. [PMID: 29691821 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-76711-6_7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED In order to engineer biomimetic osteochondral (OC) construct, it is necessary to address both the cartilage and bone phase of the construct, as well as the interface between them, in effect mimicking the developmental processes when generating hierarchical scaffolds that show gradual changes of physical and mechanical properties, ideally complemented with the biochemical gradients. There are several components whose characteristics need to be taken into account in such biomimetic approach, including cells, scaffolds, bioreactors as well as various developmental processes such as mesenchymal condensation and vascularization, that need to be stimulated through the use of growth factors, mechanical stimulation, purinergic signaling, low oxygen conditioning, and immunomodulation. This chapter gives overview of these biomimetic OC system components, including the OC interface, as well as various methods of fabrication utilized in OC biomimetic tissue engineering (TE) of gradient scaffolds. Special attention is given to addressing the issue of achieving clinical size, anatomically shaped constructs. Besides such neotissue engineering for potential clinical use, other applications of biomimetic OC TE including formation of the OC tissues to be used as high-fidelity disease/healing models and as in vitro models for drug toxicity/efficacy evaluation are covered. HIGHLIGHTS Biomimetic OC TE uses "smart" scaffolds able to locally regulate cell phenotypes and dual-flow bioreactors for two sets of conditions for cartilage/bone Protocols for hierarchical OC grafts engineering should entail mesenchymal condensation for cartilage and vascular component for bone Immunomodulation, low oxygen tension, purinergic signaling, time dependence of stimuli application are important aspects to consider in biomimetic OC TE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivana Gadjanski
- BioSense Institute, University of Novi Sad, Dr Zorana Djindjica, Novi Sad, Serbia. .,Belgrade Metropolitan University, Tadeusa Koscuska 63, Belgrade, Serbia.
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Abstract
Connexons form the basis of hemichannels and gap junctions. They are composed of six tetraspan proteins called connexins. Connexons can function as individual hemichannels, releasing cytosolic factors (such as ATP) into the pericellular environment. Alternatively, two hemichannel connexons from neighbouring cells can come together to form gap junctions, membrane-spanning channels that facilitate cell-cell communication by enabling signalling molecules of approximately 1 kDa to pass from one cell to an adjacent cell. Connexins are expressed in joint tissues including bone, cartilage, skeletal muscle and the synovium. Indicative of their importance as gap junction components, connexins are also known as gap junction proteins, but individual connexin proteins are gaining recognition for their channel-independent roles, which include scaffolding and signalling functions. Considerable evidence indicates that connexons contribute to the function of bone and muscle, but less is known about the function of connexons in other joint tissues. However, the implication that connexins and gap junctional channels might be involved in joint disease, including age-related bone loss, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, emphasizes the need for further research into these areas and highlights the therapeutic potential of connexins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry J Donahue
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Virginia Commonwealth University, 601 West Main Street, Richmond, Virginia 23284, USA
| | - Roy W Qu
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Cell Biology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California at Davis, One Shields Avenue, Davis, California 95616, USA
| | - Damian C Genetos
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Cell Biology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California at Davis, One Shields Avenue, Davis, California 95616, USA
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Steward AJ, Kelly DJ, Wagner DR. Purinergic Signaling Regulates the Transforming Growth Factor-β3-Induced Chondrogenic Response of Mesenchymal Stem Cells to Hydrostatic Pressure. Tissue Eng Part A 2017; 22:831-9. [PMID: 27137792 DOI: 10.1089/ten.tea.2015.0047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Although hydrostatic pressure (HP) is known to regulate chondrogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (MSCs), improved insight into the mechanotransduction of HP may form the basis for novel tissue engineering strategies. Previously, we demonstrated that matrix stiffness and calcium ion (Ca(++)) mobility regulate the mechanotransduction of HP; however, the mechanisms, by which these Ca(++) signaling pathways are initiated, are currently unknown. The purinergic pathway, in which adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is released and activates P-receptors to initiate Ca(++) signaling, plays a key role in the mechanotransduction of compression, but has yet to be investigated with regard to HP. Therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate the interplay between purinergic signaling, matrix stiffness, and the chondrogenic response of MSCs to HP. Porcine bone marrow-derived MSCs were seeded into soft or stiff agarose hydrogels and subjected to HP (10 MPa at 1 Hz for 4 h/d for 21 days) or kept in free swelling conditions. Stiff constructs were incubated with pharmacological inhibitors of extracellular ATP, P2 receptors, or hemichannels, or without any inhibitors as a control. As with other loading modalities, HP significantly increased ATP release in the control group; however, inhibition of hemichannels completely abrogated this response. The increase in sulfated glycosaminoglycan (sGAG) synthesis and vimentin reorganization observed in the control group in response to HP was suppressed in the presence of all three inhibitors, suggesting that purinergic signaling is involved in the mechanoresponse of MSCs to HP. Interestingly, ATP was released from both soft and stiff hydrogels in response to HP, but HP only enhanced chondrogenesis in the stiff hydrogels, indicating that matrix stiffness may act downstream of purinergic signaling to regulate the mechanoresponse of MSCs to HP. Addition of exogenous ATP did not replicate the effects of HP on chondrogenesis, suggesting that mechanisms other than purinergic signaling also regulate the response of MSCs to HP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew J Steward
- 1 Bioengineering Graduate Program, Department of Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering, University of Notre Dame , Notre Dame, Indiana.,2 Trinity Centre for Bioengineering, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute , Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Daniel J Kelly
- 2 Trinity Centre for Bioengineering, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute , Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland .,3 Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, School of Engineering, Trinity College Dublin , Dublin, Ireland .,4 Advanced Materials and Bioengineering Research Centre (AMBER), Trinity College Dublin , Dublin, Ireland
| | - Diane R Wagner
- 5 Department of Mechanical Engineering, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis , Indianapolis, Indiana.,6 Department of Biomedical Engineering, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis , Indianapolis, Indiana
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Ismail HM, Didangelos A, Vincent TL, Saklatvala J. Rapid Activation of Transforming Growth Factor β-Activated Kinase 1 in Chondrocytes by Phosphorylation and K 63 -Linked Polyubiquitination Upon Injury to Animal Articular Cartilage. Arthritis Rheumatol 2017; 69:565-575. [PMID: 27768832 PMCID: PMC5347887 DOI: 10.1002/art.39965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2016] [Accepted: 10/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Objective Mechanical injury to cartilage predisposes to osteoarthritis (OA). Wounding of the articular cartilage surface causes rapid activation of MAP kinases and NF‐κB, mimicking the response to inflammatory cytokines. This study was undertaken to identify the upstream signaling mechanisms involved. Methods Cartilage was injured by dissecting it from the articular surface of porcine metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joints or by avulsing murine proximal femoral epiphyses. Protein phosphorylation was assayed by Western blotting of cartilage lysates. Immunolocalization of phosphorylated activating transcription factor 2 (ATF‐2) and NF‐κB/p65 was detected by confocal microscopy. Messenger RNA (mRNA) was measured by quantitative reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR). Receptor associated protein 80 (RAP‐80) ubiquitin interacting motif agarose was used in a pull‐down assay to obtain K63‐polyubiquitinated proteins. Ubiquitin linkages on immunoprecipitated transforming growth factor β–activated kinase 1 (TAK‐1) were analyzed with deubiquitinases. Results Sharp injury to porcine cartilage caused rapid activation of JNK and NF‐κB pathways and the upstream kinases MKK‐4, IKK, and TAK‐1. Pharmacologic inhibition of TAK‐1 in porcine cartilage abolished JNK and NF‐κB activation and reduced the injury‐dependent inflammatory gene response. High molecular weight species of phosphorylated TAK‐1 were induced by injury, indicating its ubiquitination. An overall increase in K63‐linked polyubiquitination was detected upon injury, and TAK‐1 was specifically linked to K63‐ but not K48‐polyubiquitin chains. In mice, avulsion of wild‐type femoral epiphyses caused similar intracellular signaling that was reduced in cartilage‐specific TAK‐1–null mice. Epiphyseal cartilage of MyD88‐null and TRAF‐6–null mice responded to injury, suggesting the involvement of a ubiquitin E3 ligase other than TRAF‐6. Conclusion Activation of TAK‐1 by phosphorylation and K63‐linked polyubiquitination by injury indicates its role in driving cell activation. Further studies are needed to identify the upstream ubiquitination mechanisms, including the E3 ligase involved.
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Esseltine JL, Shao Q, Brooks C, Sampson J, Betts DH, Séguin CA, Laird DW. Connexin43 Mutant Patient-Derived Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells Exhibit Altered Differentiation Potential. J Bone Miner Res 2017; 32:1368-1385. [PMID: 28177159 DOI: 10.1002/jbmr.3098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2016] [Revised: 01/26/2017] [Accepted: 02/01/2017] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
We present for the first time the generation of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) from a patient with a connexin-linked disease. The importance of gap junctional intercellular communication in bone homeostasis is exemplified by the autosomal dominant developmental disorder oculodentodigital dysplasia (ODDD), which is linked to mutations in the GJA1 (Cx43) gene. ODDD is characterized by craniofacial malformations, ophthalmic deficits, enamel hypoplasia, and syndactyly. In addition to harboring a Cx43 p.V216L mutation, ODDD iPSCs exhibit reduced Cx43 mRNA and protein abundance when compared to control iPSCs and display impaired channel function. Osteogenic differentiation involved an early, and dramatic downregulation of Cx43 followed by a slight upregulation during the final stages of differentiation. Interestingly, osteoblast differentiation was delayed in ODDD iPSCs. Moreover, Cx43 subcellular localization was altered during chondrogenic differentiation of ODDD iPSCs compared to controls and this may have contributed to the more compact cartilage pellet morphology found in differentiated ODDD iPSCs. These studies highlight the importance of Cx43 expression and function during osteoblast and chondrocyte differentiation, and establish a potential mechanism for how ODDD-associated Cx43 mutations may have altered cell lineages involved in bone and cartilage development. © 2017 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica L Esseltine
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario. London, ON, Canada
| | - Qing Shao
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario. London, ON, Canada
| | - Courtney Brooks
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Jacinda Sampson
- Department of Neurology, Stanford University Medical Center, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Dean H Betts
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Cheryle A Séguin
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Dale W Laird
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario. London, ON, Canada.,Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
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Clark RB, Schmidt TA, Sachse FB, Boyle D, Firestein GS, Giles WR. Cellular electrophysiological principles that modulate secretion from synovial fibroblasts. J Physiol 2017; 595:635-645. [PMID: 27079855 DOI: 10.1113/jp270209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2015] [Accepted: 03/02/2016] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a progressive disease that affects both pediatric and adult populations. The cellular basis for RA has been investigated extensively using animal models, human tissues and isolated cells in culture. However, many aspects of its aetiology and molecular mechanisms remain unknown. Some of the electrophysiological principles that regulate secretion of essential lubricants (hyaluronan and lubricin) and cytokines from synovial fibroblasts have been identified. Data sets describing the main types of ion channels that are expressed in human synovial fibroblast preparations have begun to provide important new insights into the interplay among: (i) ion fluxes, (ii) Ca2+ release from the endoplasmic reticulum, (iii) intercellular coupling, and (iv) both transient and longer duration changes in synovial fibroblast membrane potential. A combination of this information, knowledge of similar patterns of responses in cells that regulate the immune system, and the availability of adult human synovial fibroblasts are likely to provide new pathophysiological insights.
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Affiliation(s)
- R B Clark
- Faculties of Kinesiology and Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada, T2N 1N4
| | - T A Schmidt
- Faculties of Kinesiology and Engineering, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada, T2N 1N4
| | - F B Sachse
- Department of Bioengineering and Nora Eccles Harrison Cardiovascular Research and Training Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - D Boyle
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - G S Firestein
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - W R Giles
- Faculties of Kinesiology and Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada, T2N 1N4
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Cucchiarini M, de Girolamo L, Filardo G, Oliveira JM, Orth P, Pape D, Reboul P. Basic science of osteoarthritis. J Exp Orthop 2016; 3:22. [PMID: 27624438 PMCID: PMC5021646 DOI: 10.1186/s40634-016-0060-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2016] [Accepted: 09/09/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent, disabling disorder of the joints that affects a large population worldwide and for which there is no definitive cure. This review provides critical insights into the basic knowledge on OA that may lead to innovative end efficient new therapeutic regimens. While degradation of the articular cartilage is the hallmark of OA, with altered interactions between chondrocytes and compounds of the extracellular matrix, the subchondral bone has been also described as a key component of the disease, involving specific pathomechanisms controlling its initiation and progression. The identification of such events (and thus of possible targets for therapy) has been made possible by the availability of a number of animal models that aim at reproducing the human pathology, in particular large models of high tibial osteotomy (HTO). From a therapeutic point of view, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) represent a promising option for the treatment of OA and may be used concomitantly with functional substitutes integrating scaffolds and drugs/growth factors in tissue engineering setups. Altogether, these advances in the fundamental and experimental knowledge on OA may allow for the generation of improved, adapted therapeutic regimens to treat human OA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magali Cucchiarini
- Center of Experimental Orthopaedics, Saarland University Medical Center and Saarland University, Kirrbergerstr. Bldg 37, D-66421, Homburg, Germany.
| | - Laura de Girolamo
- Orthopaedic Biotechnology Laboratory, Galeazzi Orthopaedic Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Filardo
- Orthopaedic and Traumatologic I Clinic, Biomechanics Laboratory, Rizzoli Orthopaedic Institute, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - J Miguel Oliveira
- 3B's Research Group - Biomaterials, Biodegradables and Biomimetics, Univ. Minho, Headquarters of the European Institute of Excellence on Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Avepark - Parque de Ciência e Tecnologia, Zona Industrial da Gandra, Barco GMR, Barco, Guimarães, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associated Laboratory, Barco, Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Patrick Orth
- Center of Experimental Orthopaedics, Saarland University Medical Center and Saarland University, Kirrbergerstr. Bldg 37, D-66421, Homburg, Germany
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Saarland University Medical Center and Saarland University, Homburg, Saar, Germany
| | - Dietrich Pape
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Centre Hospitalier de Luxembourg, Luxembourg ville, Luxembourg
- Sports Medicine Research Laboratory, Public Research Centre for Health, Luxembourg, Centre Médical de la Fondation Norbert Metz, Luxembourg ville, Luxembourg
| | - Pascal Reboul
- UMR 7365 CNRS-Université de Lorraine, IMoPA, Biopôle de l'Université de Lorraine, Campus Biologie-Santé, Vandoeuvre-lès-Nancy, France
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Hu H, Yang B, Li Y, Zhang S, Li Z. Blocking of the P2X7 receptor inhibits the activation of the MMP-13 and NF-κB pathways in the cartilage tissue of rats with osteoarthritis. Int J Mol Med 2016; 38:1922-1932. [PMID: 27748894 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2016.2770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2016] [Accepted: 09/20/2016] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
P2X purinoceptor 7 (P2X7) receptor (P2X7R) is known to play a significant role in inflammation and pain-causing diseases, including osteoarthritis (OA). However, the mechanisms of action of P2X7R and its role in OA remain unclear. The articular cartilage is the crucial region in which pathological changes occur in OA, involving the dysregulation of degradation and maintenance mechanisms. In this study, we aimed to reveal the molecular mechanisms of action of P2X7R in articular cartilage in OA-induced pain and inflammation by using AZD9056, an antagonist of P2X7R. We created an animal model of OA by using Wistar rats administered (by intra-articular injection) monosodium iodoacetate (MIA), and the rats with OA were then treated with the P2X7R antagonist, AZD9056. We found that treatment with AZD9056 exerted pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects. Importantly, we found that the upregulated expression of interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), matrix metalloproteinase-13 (MMP-13), substance P (SP) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) which was induced by MIA in cartilage tissues was reversed by AZD9056. Western blot analysis was used to examine the expression of inhibitor of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) kinase (IKK)α, IKKβ, inhibitor of NF-κB (IκB)α, NF-κB p65 and their phosphorylation forms; they were found to be significantly increased in the knee cartilage tissues from rats with OA; however, opposite effects were observed by the injection of AZD9056. These results implied that P2X7R was associated with the activation of the NF-κB pathway in the development of OA. Our results also revealed that helenalin, an NF-κB pathway inhibitor, decreased the expression of P2X7R, IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, SP, PGE2 and MMP-13, which was induced by MIA, in the knee cartilage tissues of rats with OA. On the whole, our findings suggest that P2X7R regulates the MMP-13 and NF-κB pathways in cartilage tissue and mediate OA-induced pain and inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongbo Hu
- Second Department of Orthopaedics, Weinan Central Hospital, Weinan, Shaanxi 714000, P.R. China
| | - Baohui Yang
- Department of Οrthopaedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710004, P.R. China
| | - Yumin Li
- Second Department of Orthopaedics, Weinan Central Hospital, Weinan, Shaanxi 714000, P.R. China
| | - Subin Zhang
- Second Department of Orthopaedics, Weinan Central Hospital, Weinan, Shaanxi 714000, P.R. China
| | - Zheng Li
- Second Department of Orthopaedics, Weinan Central Hospital, Weinan, Shaanxi 714000, P.R. China
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Decoding the intervertebral disc: Unravelling the complexities of cell phenotypes and pathways associated with degeneration and mechanotransduction. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2016; 62:94-103. [PMID: 27208724 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2016.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2016] [Accepted: 05/17/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Back pain is the most common cause of pain and disability worldwide. While its etiology remains unknown, it is typically associated with intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration. Despite the prevalence of back pain, relatively little is known about the specific cellular pathways and mechanisms that contribute to the development, function and degeneration of the IVD. Consequently, current treatments for back pain are largely limited to symptomatic interventions. However, major progress is being made in multiple research directions to unravel the biology and pathology of the IVD, raising hope that effective disease-modifying interventions will soon be developed. In this review, we will discuss our current knowledge and gaps in knowledge on the developmental origin of the IVD, the phenotype of the distinct cell types found within the IVD tissues, molecular targets in IVD degeneration identified using bioinformatics strategies, and mechanotransduction pathways that influence IVD cell fate and function.
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Asmar A, Barrett-Jolley R, Werner A, Kelly R, Stacey M. Membrane channel gene expression in human costal and articular chondrocytes. Organogenesis 2016; 12:94-107. [PMID: 27116676 PMCID: PMC4981366 DOI: 10.1080/15476278.2016.1181238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Chondrocytes are the uniquely resident cells found in all types of cartilage and key to their function is the ability to respond to mechanical loads with changes of metabolic activity. This mechanotransduction property is, in part, mediated through the activity of a range of expressed transmembrane channels; ion channels, gap junction proteins, and porins. Appropriate expression of ion channels has been shown essential for production of extracellular matrix and differential expression of transmembrane channels is correlated to musculoskeletal diseases such as osteoarthritis and Albers-Schönberg. In this study we analyzed the consistency of gene expression between channelomes of chondrocytes from human articular and costal (teenage and fetal origin) cartilages. Notably, we found 14 ion channel genes commonly expressed between articular and both types of costal cartilage chondrocytes. There were several other ion channel genes expressed only in articular (6 genes) or costal chondrocytes (5 genes). Significant differences in expression of BEST1 and KCNJ2 (Kir2.1) were observed between fetal and teenage costal cartilage. Interestingly, the large Ca2+ activated potassium channel (BKα, or KCNMA1) was very highly expressed in all chondrocytes examined. Expression of the gap junction genes for Panx1, GJA1 (Cx43) and GJC1 (Cx45) was also observed in chondrocytes from all cartilage samples. Together, this data highlights similarities between chondrocyte membrane channel gene expressions in cells derived from different anatomical sites, and may imply that common electrophysiological signaling pathways underlie cellular control. The high expression of a range of mechanically and metabolically sensitive membrane channels suggest that chondrocyte mechanotransduction may be more complex than previously thought.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Asmar
- a Frank Reidy Research Center for Bioelectrics, Old Dominion University , Norfolk , VA , USA
| | - R Barrett-Jolley
- b Department of Musculoskeletal Biology , University of Liverpool , England , UK
| | - A Werner
- c Department of Pathology , Eastern Virginia Medical School and Med Director of Laboratories, Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters , Norfolk , VA , USA
| | - R Kelly
- d Department of Surgery , Eastern Virginia Medical School and Pediatric Surgery Division, Children's Hospital of the King's Daughters , Norfolk , VA , USA
| | - M Stacey
- a Frank Reidy Research Center for Bioelectrics, Old Dominion University , Norfolk , VA , USA
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Matta C, Fodor J, Csernoch L, Zákány R. Purinergic signalling-evoked intracellular Ca(2+) concentration changes in the regulation of chondrogenesis and skeletal muscle formation. Cell Calcium 2016; 59:108-16. [PMID: 26925979 DOI: 10.1016/j.ceca.2016.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2015] [Revised: 12/16/2015] [Accepted: 01/23/2016] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
It is now widely recognised that changes of the intracellular calcium concentration have deep impact on the differentiation of various non-excitable cells including the elements of the vertebrate skeleton. It has become evident that purinergic signalling is one of the most ancient cellular mechanisms that can cause such alterations in the intracellular Ca(2+)-homeostasis, which are precisely set either spatially or temporally. Purinergic signalling is believed to regulate intracellular Ca(2+)-concentration of developing cartilage and skeletal muscle cells and suggested to play roles in the modulation of various cellular functions. This idea is supported by the fact that pluripotent mesenchymal cells, chondroprogenitors or muscle precursors, as well as mature chondrocytes all are capable of releasing ectonucleotides, and express various types of purinoreceptors and ectonucleotidases. The presence of the basic components of purinergic signalling proves that cells of the chondrogenic lineage can utilise this mechanism for modulating their intracellular Ca(2+) concentration independently from the surrounding skeletal muscle and bone tissues, which are well known to release ectopurines during development and mechanical stress. In this review, we summarize accumulating experimental evidence supporting the importance of purinergic signalling in the regulation of chondrogenesis and during skeletal muscle formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Csaba Matta
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen H-4032, Hungary; Department of Veterinary Pre-Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7AL, United Kingdom
| | - János Fodor
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen H-4032, Hungary
| | - László Csernoch
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen H-4032, Hungary
| | - Róza Zákány
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen H-4032, Hungary.
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Barreto G, Soininen A, Ylinen P, Sandelin J, Konttinen YT, Nordström DC, Eklund KK. Soluble biglycan: a potential mediator of cartilage degradation in osteoarthritis. Arthritis Res Ther 2015; 17:379. [PMID: 26703441 PMCID: PMC4718039 DOI: 10.1186/s13075-015-0902-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2015] [Accepted: 12/14/2015] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Soluble biglycan (sBGN) and soluble decorin (sDCN), are two closely related essential components of extracellular matrix which both have been shown to possess proinflammatory properties. We studied whether sBGN or sDCN were present in synovial fluid (SF) of osteoarthritis (OA) or rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients and studied sBGN or sDCN potential role in the degradation of OA cartilage. Methods SF obtained from meniscus tear, OA, and RA patients were analysed for sBGN and sDCN using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. OA chondrocytes and cartilage explants were stimulated for 48 h with 5 μg/ml sBGN or 1 μg/ml lipopolysaccharide. Messenger RNA (mRNA) levels of Toll-like receptors (TLRs), proteinases and cartilage matrix molecules were determined using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Protein levels of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and cytokines were measured using Luminex xMap technology. Production of nitric oxide (NO), release of proteoglycans and soluble collagen were measured from conditioned culture media using biochemical assays. OA cartilage explant proteoglycans were stained for Safranin O and quantified using image analysis. TLR4 activation by sBGN and sDCN was studied in engineered HEK-293 cells with TLR4 signalling genes inserted together with a reporter gene. Results sBGN was found in meniscus tear SF (14 ± 2 ng/ml), OA SF (582 ± 307 ng/ml) and RA SF (1191 ± 482 ng/ml). Low levels of sDCN could also be detected in SF of meniscus tear (51 ± 4) ng/ml, OA (52 ± 3 ng/ml), and RA (49 ± 4 ng/ml). Stimulation of chondrocytes with sBGN increased significantly the mRNA and protein expression of catabolic MMPs, including MMP1, MMP9 and MMP13, and of inflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-8, whereas the expression of anabolic markers aggrecan and collagen type II was decreased. sBGN induced release of proteoglycans, collagen and NO from chondrocytes and cartilage explants. The catabolic response in explants was dependent of OA cartilage degradation stage. The mechanism of action of sBGN was mainly mediated through the TLR4-nuclear factor-κB pathway. Conclusions High levels of sBGN was found in advanced OA and RA SF. sBGN activates chondrocytes mainly via TLR4, which results in net loss of cartilage. Thus, sBGN can be a mediator of OA cartilage degradation and also a potential biomarker for arthritis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Goncalo Barreto
- Department of Internal Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University (Central) Hospital, Biomedicum 1, PO Box 63, FIN-00290, Helsinki, Finland.
| | | | | | | | - Yrjö T Konttinen
- Department of Internal Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University (Central) Hospital, Biomedicum 1, PO Box 63, FIN-00290, Helsinki, Finland.,ORTON Orthopaedic Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Dan C Nordström
- Department of Internal Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University (Central) Hospital, Biomedicum 1, PO Box 63, FIN-00290, Helsinki, Finland.
| | - Kari K Eklund
- Department of Rheumatology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University (Central) Hospital, Helsinki, Finland.
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Lewis R, Barrett-Jolley R. Changes in Membrane Receptors and Ion Channels as Potential Biomarkers for Osteoarthritis. Front Physiol 2015; 6:357. [PMID: 26648874 PMCID: PMC4664663 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2015.00357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2015] [Accepted: 11/11/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Osteoarthritis (OA), a degenerative joint condition, is currently difficult to detect early enough for any of the current treatment options to be completely successful. Early diagnosis of this disease could increase the numbers of patients who are able to slow its progression. There are now several diseases where membrane protein biomarkers are used for early diagnosis. The numbers of proteins in the membrane is vast and so it is a rich source of potential biomarkers for OA but we need more knowledge of these before they can be considered practical biomarkers. How are they best measured and are they selective to OA or even certain types of OA? The first step in this process is to identify membrane proteins that change in OA. Here, we summarize several ion channels and receptors that change in OA models and/or OA patients, and may thus be considered candidates as novel membrane biomarkers of OA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Lewis
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Surrey Guildford, UK
| | - Richard Barrett-Jolley
- Department of Musculoskeletal Biology, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Institute of Ageing and Chronic Disease, University of Liverpool Liverpool, UK
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Plotkin LI, Stains JP. Connexins and pannexins in the skeleton: gap junctions, hemichannels and more. Cell Mol Life Sci 2015; 72:2853-67. [PMID: 26091748 PMCID: PMC4503509 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-015-1963-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2015] [Accepted: 06/11/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Regulation of bone homeostasis depends on the concerted actions of bone-forming osteoblasts and bone-resorbing osteoclasts, controlled by osteocytes, cells derived from osteoblasts surrounded by bone matrix. The control of differentiation, viability and function of bone cells relies on the presence of connexins. Connexin43 regulates the expression of genes required for osteoblast and osteoclast differentiation directly or by changing the levels of osteocytic genes, and connexin45 may oppose connexin43 actions in osteoblastic cells. Connexin37 is required for osteoclast differentiation and its deletion results in increased bone mass. Less is known on the role of connexins in cartilage, ligaments and tendons. Connexin43, connexin45, connexin32, connexin46 and connexin29 are expressed in chondrocytes, while connexin43 and connexin32 are expressed in ligaments and tendons. Similarly, although the expression of pannexin1, pannexin2 and pannexin3 has been demonstrated in bone and cartilage cells, their function in these tissues is not fully understood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lilian I Plotkin
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine, 635 Barnhill Dr., MS 5035, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA,
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Sun L, Gao J, Zhao M, Cui J, Li Y, Yang X, Jing X, Wu Z. A novel cognitive impairment mechanism that astrocytic p-connexin 43 promotes neuronic autophagy via activation of P2X7R and down-regulation of GLT-1 expression in the hippocampus following traumatic brain injury in rats. Behav Brain Res 2015; 291:315-324. [PMID: 26031379 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2015.05.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2015] [Accepted: 05/27/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Connexin 43 (Cx43) is one of the major gap junction proteins in astrocytes. Our previous studies reported that astrocytic phosphorylated Cx43 (p-CX43) regulated neuronic autophagy levels in the rat hippocampus after traumatic brain injury (TBI). In this study, we explored the underlying molecular mechanism by which gap junctional intercellular communication influenced neuronic autophagy and therefore initiated cognitive and memory impairments after TBI. The gap junctional blocker carbenoxolone (CBX) or autophagy inhibitor 3-methyladenine (3-MA) reduced latencies, as compared to TBI rats. Similarly, CBX or 3-MA restored long-term potentiation (LTP), relative to TBI hippocampal slices. Immunoblotting analysis showed that the expression of autophagy-related gene Beclin-1 in the hippocampus post-TBI were decreased in response to treatment with CBX, the P2X7 receptor (P2X7R) antagonist Oxidized ATP (OxATP) or ceftriaxone (Cef) which increased the expression and activity of the glutamate transporter (GLT-1) in the central nervous system (CNS). Moreover, CBX or OxATP pretreatment increased GLT-1 level in the rat hippocampus after TBI. However, CBX pretreatment suppressed P2X7R expression whereas maintained P2X7 level post-TBI. Confocal images revealed that p-CX43, P2X7 and GLT-1 strongly colocalized with glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). Taken together, these results implied that Cx43, might induce neuronic autophagy by activation of P2X7R and reduce the expression of GLT-1 in the hippocampus, promoting TBI-induced cognitive deficits repair. Therefore, control of this communication may be serve as therapeutic strategies for intervention against TBI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liqian Sun
- Department of Interventional Neuroradiology, Beijing Neurosurgical Institute and Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Junling Gao
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Science, North China University Science And Technology, Tangshan 063000, Hebei, China
| | - Manman Zhao
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Science, North China University Science And Technology, Tangshan 063000, Hebei, China
| | - Jianzhong Cui
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tangshan Gongren Hospital, Tangshan 063000, Hebei, China
| | - Youxiang Li
- Department of Interventional Neuroradiology, Beijing Neurosurgical Institute and Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Xinjian Yang
- Department of Interventional Neuroradiology, Beijing Neurosurgical Institute and Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Xiaobin Jing
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tangshan Ophthalmology Hospital, Tangshan 063000, Hebei, China
| | - Zhongxue Wu
- Department of Interventional Neuroradiology, Beijing Neurosurgical Institute and Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, China.
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Abstract
Accumulating evidence now suggests that purinergic signalling exerts significant regulatory effects in the musculoskeletal system. In particular, it has emerged that extracellular nucleotides are key regulators of bone cell differentiation, survival and function. This review discusses our current understanding of the direct effects of purinergic signalling in bone, cartilage and muscle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel R Orriss
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, Royal College Street, London NW1 0TU, United Kingdom.
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49
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Connexin43 enhances the expression of osteoarthritis-associated genes in synovial fibroblasts in culture. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2014; 15:425. [PMID: 25496568 PMCID: PMC4295231 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2474-15-425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2014] [Accepted: 11/25/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Recent work has shown that the gap junction protein connexin43 (Cx43) is upregulated in cells of the joint during osteoarthritis (OA). Here we examined if the OA-associated increase in Cx43 expression impacts the function of synovial fibroblasts by contributing to the production of catabolic and inflammatory factors that exacerbate joint destruction in arthritic disease. Methods Using rabbit and human synovial fibroblast cell lines, we examined the effects of Cx43 overexpression and Cx43 siRNA-mediated knockdown on the gene expression of OA-associated matrix metalloproteinases (MMP1 and MMP13), aggrecanases (ADAMTS4 and ADAMTS5), and inflammatory factors (IL1, IL6 and PTGS2) by quantitative real time RT-PCR. We examined collagenase activity in conditioned media of cultured synovial cells following Cx43 overexpression. Lastly, we assessed the interplay between Cx43 and the NFκB cascade by western blotting and gene expression studies. Results Increasing Cx43 expression enhanced the gene expression of MMP1, MMP13, ADAMTS4, ADAMTS5, IL1, IL6 and PTGS2 and increased the secretion of collagenases into conditioned media of cultured synovial fibroblasts. Conversely, knockdown of Cx43 decreased expression of many of these catabolic and inflammatory genes. Modulation of Cx43 expression altered the phosphorylation of the NFκB subunit, p65, and inhibition of NFκB with chemical inhibitors blocked the effects of increased Cx43 expression on the mRNA levels of a subset of these catabolic and inflammatory genes. Conclusions Increasing or decreasing Cx43 expression alone was sufficient to alter the levels of catabolic and inflammatory genes expressed by synovial cells. The NFκB cascade mediated the effect of Cx43 on the expression of a subset of these OA-associated genes. As such, Cx43 may be involved in joint pathology during OA, and targeting Cx43 expression or function may be a viable therapeutic strategy to attenuate the catabolic and inflammatory environment of the joint during OA. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/1471-2474-15-425) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Encapsulation of Chondrocytes in High-Stiffness Agarose Microenvironments for In Vitro Modeling of Osteoarthritis Mechanotransduction. Ann Biomed Eng 2014; 43:1132-44. [DOI: 10.1007/s10439-014-1183-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2014] [Accepted: 11/04/2014] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
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