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Roger I, Montero P, Milara J, Cortijo J. Pirfenidone and nintedanib attenuates pulmonary artery endothelial and smooth muscle cells transformations induced by IL-11. Eur J Pharmacol 2024; 972:176547. [PMID: 38561103 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2024.176547] [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: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) associated to pulmonary hypertension (PH) portends a poor prognosis, characterized by lung parenchyma fibrosis and pulmonary artery remodeling. Serum and parenchyma levels of Interleukin 11 (IL-11) are elevated in IPF-PH patients and contributes to pulmonary artery remodeling and PH. However, the effect of current approved therapies against IPF in pulmonary artery remodeling induced by IL-11 is unknown. The aim of this study is to analyze the effects of nintedanib and pirfenidone on pulmonary artery endothelial and smooth muscle cell remodeling induced by IL-11 in vitro. Our results show that nintedanib (NTD) and pirfenidone (PFD) ameliorates endothelial to mesenchymal transition (EnMT), pulmonary artery smooth muscle cell to myofibroblast-like transformation and pulmonary remodeling in precision lung cut slices. This study provided also evidence of the inhibitory effect of PFD and NTD on IL-11-induced endothelial and muscle cells proliferation and senescence. The inhibitory effect of these drugs on monocyte arrest and angiogenesis was also studied. Finally, we observed that IL-11 induced canonical signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) and non-canonical mitogen-activated protein kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) phosphorylation, but, PFD and NTD only inhibited ERK1/2 phosphorylation. Therefore, this study provided evidence of the inhibitory effect of NTD and PFD on markers of pulmonary artery remodeling induced by IL-11.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inés Roger
- Biomedical Research Networking Centre on Respiratory Diseases (CIBERES), Health Institute Carlos III, 28029, Madrid, Spain; Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Valencia, 46010, Valencia, Spain; Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Europea de Valencia, 46010, Valencia, Spain.
| | - Paula Montero
- Biomedical Research Networking Centre on Respiratory Diseases (CIBERES), Health Institute Carlos III, 28029, Madrid, Spain; Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Valencia, 46010, Valencia, Spain; Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Europea de Valencia, 46010, Valencia, Spain
| | - Javier Milara
- Biomedical Research Networking Centre on Respiratory Diseases (CIBERES), Health Institute Carlos III, 28029, Madrid, Spain; Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Valencia, 46010, Valencia, Spain; Pharmacy Unit, University General Hospital Consortium, 46014, Valencia, Spain
| | - Julio Cortijo
- Biomedical Research Networking Centre on Respiratory Diseases (CIBERES), Health Institute Carlos III, 28029, Madrid, Spain; Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Valencia, 46010, Valencia, Spain; Research and Teaching Unit, University General Hospital Consortium, 46014, Valencia, Spain
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2
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Bonadio JD, Bashiri G, Halligan P, Kegel M, Ahmed F, Wang K. Delivery technologies for therapeutic targeting of fibronectin in autoimmunity and fibrosis applications. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2024; 209:115303. [PMID: 38588958 PMCID: PMC11111362 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2024.115303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
Fibronectin (FN) is a critical component of the extracellular matrix (ECM) contributing to various physiological processes, including tissue repair and immune response regulation. FN regulates various cellular functions such as adhesion, proliferation, migration, differentiation, and cytokine release. Alterations in FN expression, deposition, and molecular structure can profoundly impact its interaction with other ECM proteins, growth factors, cells, and associated signaling pathways, thus influencing the progress of diseases such as fibrosis and autoimmune disorders. Therefore, developing therapeutics that directly target FN or its interaction with cells and other ECM components can be an intriguing approach to address autoimmune and fibrosis pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob D Bonadio
- Department of Bioengineering, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Ghazal Bashiri
- Department of Bioengineering, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Patrick Halligan
- Department of Bioengineering, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Michael Kegel
- Department of Bioengineering, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Fatima Ahmed
- Department of Bioengineering, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Karin Wang
- Department of Bioengineering, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States.
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3
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Tirunavalli SK, Andugulapati SB. Geneticin ameliorates pulmonary fibrosis by attenuating the TGF-β/Smad via modulating AMPK/SIRT1 signaling. Life Sci 2024; 346:122626. [PMID: 38614295 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2024.122626] [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: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/15/2024]
Abstract
AIM Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic, progressive condition with unknown aetiology that causes the lung parenchyma to scar incessantly, lowering the quality of life and hastening death. In this investigation, we studied the anti-fibrotic activity of Geneticin (a derivative of gentamycin) using in vitro and in vivo models. MAIN METHODS The TGF-β-mediated differentiation model was adopted to investigate (fibrotic marker's levels/expression) the anti-fibrotic activity of geneticin (GNC) in in-vitro scenarios (LL29 and DHLF cells). In vivo, the bleomycin (BLM)-induced pulmonary fibrosis model was employed by administering BLM intratracheally. Post 14 days of BLM administration, animals were treated with geneticin (6.25, 12.5, and 25 mg·kg-1) for another 14 days, and their therapeutic effect was investigated using a spectrum of techniques. KEY FINDINGS RTqPCR and western-blot results revealed that geneticin treatment significantly attenuated the TGF-β/BLM mediated fibrotic cascade of markers in both in-vitro and in-vivo models respectively. Further, the BLM-induced pulmonary fibrosis model revealed, that geneticin dose-dependently reduced the BLM-induced inflammatory cell infiltrations, and thickness of the alveoli walls, improved the structural distortion of the lung, and aided in improving the survival rate of the rats. Picrosirus and Masson's trichrome staining indicated that geneticin therapy reduced collagen deposition and, as a result, lung functional characteristics were improved as assessed by flexivent. Mechanistic studies have shown that geneticin reduced fibrosis by attenuating the TGF-β/Smad through modulating the AMPK/SIRT1 signaling. SIGNIFICANCE These findings suggest that geneticin may be a promising therapeutic agent for the treatment of pulmonary fibrosis in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satya Krishna Tirunavalli
- Division of Applied Biology, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Hyderabad 500 007, Telangana, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh 201 002, India
| | - Sai Balaji Andugulapati
- Division of Applied Biology, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Hyderabad 500 007, Telangana, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh 201 002, India.
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4
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Koziol-White C, Gebski E, Cao G, Panettieri RA. Precision cut lung slices: an integrated ex vivo model for studying lung physiology, pharmacology, disease pathogenesis and drug discovery. Respir Res 2024; 25:231. [PMID: 38824592 PMCID: PMC11144351 DOI: 10.1186/s12931-024-02855-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Precision Cut Lung Slices (PCLS) have emerged as a sophisticated and physiologically relevant ex vivo model for studying the intricacies of lung diseases, including fibrosis, injury, repair, and host defense mechanisms. This innovative methodology presents a unique opportunity to bridge the gap between traditional in vitro cell cultures and in vivo animal models, offering researchers a more accurate representation of the intricate microenvironment of the lung. PCLS require the precise sectioning of lung tissue to maintain its structural and functional integrity. These thin slices serve as invaluable tools for various research endeavors, particularly in the realm of airway diseases. By providing a controlled microenvironment, precision-cut lung slices empower researchers to dissect and comprehend the multifaceted interactions and responses within lung tissue, thereby advancing our understanding of pulmonary pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia Koziol-White
- Rutgers Institute for Translational Medicine and Science, The State University of NJ, 08901, Rutgers, New Brunswick, NJ, USA.
| | - Eric Gebski
- Rutgers Institute for Translational Medicine and Science, The State University of NJ, 08901, Rutgers, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Gaoyaun Cao
- Rutgers Institute for Translational Medicine and Science, The State University of NJ, 08901, Rutgers, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Reynold A Panettieri
- Rutgers Institute for Translational Medicine and Science, The State University of NJ, 08901, Rutgers, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
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5
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Roth-Walter F, Adcock IM, Benito-Villalvilla C, Bianchini R, Bjermer L, Caramori G, Cari L, Chung KF, Diamant Z, Eguiluz-Gracia I, Knol EF, Jesenak M, Levi-Schaffer F, Nocentini G, O'Mahony L, Palomares O, Redegeld F, Sokolowska M, Van Esch BCAM, Stellato C. Metabolic pathways in immune senescence and inflammaging: Novel therapeutic strategy for chronic inflammatory lung diseases. An EAACI position paper from the Task Force for Immunopharmacology. Allergy 2024; 79:1089-1122. [PMID: 38108546 DOI: 10.1111/all.15977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
The accumulation of senescent cells drives inflammaging and increases morbidity of chronic inflammatory lung diseases. Immune responses are built upon dynamic changes in cell metabolism that supply energy and substrates for cell proliferation, differentiation, and activation. Metabolic changes imposed by environmental stress and inflammation on immune cells and tissue microenvironment are thus chiefly involved in the pathophysiology of allergic and other immune-driven diseases. Altered cell metabolism is also a hallmark of cell senescence, a condition characterized by loss of proliferative activity in cells that remain metabolically active. Accelerated senescence can be triggered by acute or chronic stress and inflammatory responses. In contrast, replicative senescence occurs as part of the physiological aging process and has protective roles in cancer surveillance and wound healing. Importantly, cell senescence can also change or hamper response to diverse therapeutic treatments. Understanding the metabolic pathways of senescence in immune and structural cells is therefore critical to detect, prevent, or revert detrimental aspects of senescence-related immunopathology, by developing specific diagnostics and targeted therapies. In this paper, we review the main changes and metabolic alterations occurring in senescent immune cells (macrophages, B cells, T cells). Subsequently, we present the metabolic footprints described in translational studies in patients with chronic asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and review the ongoing preclinical studies and clinical trials of therapeutic approaches aiming at targeting metabolic pathways to antagonize pathological senescence. Because this is a recently emerging field in allergy and clinical immunology, a better understanding of the metabolic profile of the complex landscape of cell senescence is needed. The progress achieved so far is already providing opportunities for new therapies, as well as for strategies aimed at disease prevention and supporting healthy aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Roth-Walter
- Comparative Medicine, The Interuniversity Messerli Research Institute of the University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Medical University Vienna and University Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Institute of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center of Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - I M Adcock
- Molecular Cell Biology Group, National Heart & Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - C Benito-Villalvilla
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Chemistry, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - R Bianchini
- Comparative Medicine, The Interuniversity Messerli Research Institute of the University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Medical University Vienna and University Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - L Bjermer
- Department of Respiratory Medicine and Allergology, Lung and Allergy research, Allergy, Asthma and COPD Competence Center, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - G Caramori
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Pneumologia, Italy
| | - L Cari
- Department of Medicine, Section of Pharmacology, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - K F Chung
- Experimental Studies Medicine at National Heart & Lung Institute, Imperial College London & Royal Brompton & Harefield Hospital, London, UK
| | - Z Diamant
- Department of Respiratory Medicine and Allergology, Institute for Clinical Science, Skane University Hospital, Lund, Sweden
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and Thomayer Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy & Pharmacology, University Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen and QPS-NL, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - I Eguiluz-Gracia
- Allergy Unit, Hospital Regional Universitario de Málaga-Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga (IBIMA)-ARADyAL, Málaga, Spain
| | - E F Knol
- Departments of Center of Translational Immunology and Dermatology/Allergology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - M Jesenak
- Department of Paediatrics, Department of Pulmonology and Phthisiology, Comenius University in Bratislava, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, University Teaching Hospital, Martin, Slovakia
| | - F Levi-Schaffer
- Institute for Drug Research, Pharmacology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - G Nocentini
- Department of Medicine, Section of Pharmacology, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - L O'Mahony
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- Department of Medicine, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- School of Microbiology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - O Palomares
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Chemistry, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - F Redegeld
- Division of Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - M Sokolowska
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF), University of Zürich, Davos, Switzerland
- Christine Kühne - Center for Allergy Research and Education (CK-CARE), Davos, Switzerland
| | - B C A M Van Esch
- Division of Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - C Stellato
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana", University of Salerno, Salerno, Italy
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6
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López-Martínez A, Santos-Álvarez JC, Velázquez-Enríquez JM, Ramírez-Hernández AA, Vásquez-Garzón VR, Baltierrez-Hoyos R. lncRNA-mRNA Co-Expression and Regulation Analysis in Lung Fibroblasts from Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis. Noncoding RNA 2024; 10:26. [PMID: 38668384 PMCID: PMC11054336 DOI: 10.3390/ncrna10020026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2024] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive lung disease marked by abnormal accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) due to dysregulated expression of various RNAs in pulmonary fibroblasts. This study utilized RNA-seq data meta-analysis to explore the regulatory network of hub long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and messenger RNAs (mRNAs) in IPF fibroblasts. The meta-analysis unveiled 584 differentially expressed mRNAs (DEmRNA) and 75 differentially expressed lncRNAs (DElncRNA) in lung fibroblasts from IPF. Among these, BCL6, EFNB1, EPHB2, FOXO1, FOXO3, GNAI1, IRF4, PIK3R1, and RXRA were identified as hub mRNAs, while AC008708.1, AC091806.1, AL442071.1, FAM111A-DT, and LINC01989 were designated as hub lncRNAs. Functional characterization revealed involvement in TGF-β, PI3K, FOXO, and MAPK signaling pathways. Additionally, this study identified regulatory interactions between sequences of hub mRNAs and lncRNAs. In summary, the findings suggest that AC008708.1, AC091806.1, FAM111A-DT, LINC01989, and AL442071.1 lncRNAs can regulate BCL6, EFNB1, EPHB2, FOXO1, FOXO3, GNAI1, IRF4, PIK3R1, and RXRA mRNAs in fibroblasts bearing IPF and contribute to fibrosis by modulating crucial signaling pathways such as FoxO signaling, chemical carcinogenesis, longevity regulatory pathways, non-small cell lung cancer, and AMPK signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Armando López-Martínez
- Laboratorio de Fibrosis y Cáncer, Facultad de Medicina y Cirugía, Universidad Autónoma Benito Juárez de Oaxaca, Ex Hacienda de Aguilera S/N, Sur, San Felipe del Agua, Oaxaca C.P. 68020, Mexico; (A.L.-M.); (J.C.S.-Á.); (J.M.V.-E.); (A.A.R.-H.); (V.R.V.-G.)
| | - Jovito Cesar Santos-Álvarez
- Laboratorio de Fibrosis y Cáncer, Facultad de Medicina y Cirugía, Universidad Autónoma Benito Juárez de Oaxaca, Ex Hacienda de Aguilera S/N, Sur, San Felipe del Agua, Oaxaca C.P. 68020, Mexico; (A.L.-M.); (J.C.S.-Á.); (J.M.V.-E.); (A.A.R.-H.); (V.R.V.-G.)
| | - Juan Manuel Velázquez-Enríquez
- Laboratorio de Fibrosis y Cáncer, Facultad de Medicina y Cirugía, Universidad Autónoma Benito Juárez de Oaxaca, Ex Hacienda de Aguilera S/N, Sur, San Felipe del Agua, Oaxaca C.P. 68020, Mexico; (A.L.-M.); (J.C.S.-Á.); (J.M.V.-E.); (A.A.R.-H.); (V.R.V.-G.)
| | - Alma Aurora Ramírez-Hernández
- Laboratorio de Fibrosis y Cáncer, Facultad de Medicina y Cirugía, Universidad Autónoma Benito Juárez de Oaxaca, Ex Hacienda de Aguilera S/N, Sur, San Felipe del Agua, Oaxaca C.P. 68020, Mexico; (A.L.-M.); (J.C.S.-Á.); (J.M.V.-E.); (A.A.R.-H.); (V.R.V.-G.)
| | - Verónica Rocío Vásquez-Garzón
- Laboratorio de Fibrosis y Cáncer, Facultad de Medicina y Cirugía, Universidad Autónoma Benito Juárez de Oaxaca, Ex Hacienda de Aguilera S/N, Sur, San Felipe del Agua, Oaxaca C.P. 68020, Mexico; (A.L.-M.); (J.C.S.-Á.); (J.M.V.-E.); (A.A.R.-H.); (V.R.V.-G.)
- CONACYT-Facultad de Medicina y Cirugía, Universidad Autónoma Benito Juárez de Oaxaca, Ex Hacienda de Aguilera S/N, Sur, San Felipe del Agua, Oaxaca C.P. 68020, Mexico
| | - Rafael Baltierrez-Hoyos
- Laboratorio de Fibrosis y Cáncer, Facultad de Medicina y Cirugía, Universidad Autónoma Benito Juárez de Oaxaca, Ex Hacienda de Aguilera S/N, Sur, San Felipe del Agua, Oaxaca C.P. 68020, Mexico; (A.L.-M.); (J.C.S.-Á.); (J.M.V.-E.); (A.A.R.-H.); (V.R.V.-G.)
- CONACYT-Facultad de Medicina y Cirugía, Universidad Autónoma Benito Juárez de Oaxaca, Ex Hacienda de Aguilera S/N, Sur, San Felipe del Agua, Oaxaca C.P. 68020, Mexico
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7
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Basil MC, Alysandratos KD, Kotton DN, Morrisey EE. Lung repair and regeneration: Advanced models and insights into human disease. Cell Stem Cell 2024; 31:439-454. [PMID: 38492572 PMCID: PMC11070171 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2024.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
The respiratory system acts as both the primary site of gas exchange and an important sensor and barrier to the external environment. The increase in incidences of respiratory disease over the past decades has highlighted the importance of developing improved therapeutic approaches. This review will summarize recent research on the cellular complexity of the mammalian respiratory system with a focus on gas exchange and immunological defense functions of the lung. Different models of repair and regeneration will be discussed to help interpret human and animal data and spur the investigation of models and assays for future drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria C Basil
- Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Penn, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) Lung Biology Institute, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
| | - Konstantinos-Dionysios Alysandratos
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Boston University and Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA 02118, USA; The Pulmonary Center and Department of Medicine, Boston University and Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA 02118, USA.
| | - Darrell N Kotton
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Boston University and Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA 02118, USA; The Pulmonary Center and Department of Medicine, Boston University and Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA 02118, USA.
| | - Edward E Morrisey
- Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Penn, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) Lung Biology Institute, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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8
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Kolanko E, Cargnoni A, Papait A, Silini AR, Czekaj P, Parolini O. The evolution of in vitro models of lung fibrosis: promising prospects for drug discovery. Eur Respir Rev 2024; 33:230127. [PMID: 38232990 DOI: 10.1183/16000617.0127-2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Lung fibrosis is a complex process, with unknown underlying mechanisms, involving various triggers, diseases and stimuli. Different cell types (epithelial cells, endothelial cells, fibroblasts and macrophages) interact dynamically through multiple signalling pathways, including biochemical/molecular and mechanical signals, such as stiffness, affecting cell function and differentiation. Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is the most common fibrosing interstitial lung disease (fILD), characterised by a notably high mortality. Unfortunately, effective treatments for advanced fILD, and especially IPF and non-IPF progressive fibrosing phenotype ILD, are still lacking. The development of pharmacological therapies faces challenges due to limited knowledge of fibrosis pathogenesis and the absence of pre-clinical models accurately representing the complex features of the disease. To address these challenges, new model systems have been developed to enhance the translatability of preclinical drug testing and bridge the gap to human clinical trials. The use of two- and three-dimensional in vitro cultures derived from healthy or diseased individuals allows for a better understanding of the underlying mechanisms responsible for lung fibrosis. Additionally, microfluidics systems, which replicate the respiratory system's physiology ex vivo, offer promising opportunities for the development of effective therapies, especially for IPF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emanuel Kolanko
- Department of Cytophysiology, Katowice Medical University of Silesia in Katowice, Katowice, Poland
- These authors contributed equally
| | - Anna Cargnoni
- Fondazione Poliambulanza Istituto Ospedaliero, Centro di Ricerca E. Menni, Brescia, Italy
- These authors contributed equally
| | - Andrea Papait
- Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Department Life Sciences and Public Health, Roma, Italy
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario "A. Gemelli" IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| | - Antonietta Rosa Silini
- Fondazione Poliambulanza Istituto Ospedaliero, Centro di Ricerca E. Menni, Brescia, Italy
| | - Piotr Czekaj
- Department of Cytophysiology, Katowice Medical University of Silesia in Katowice, Katowice, Poland
| | - Ornella Parolini
- Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Department Life Sciences and Public Health, Roma, Italy
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario "A. Gemelli" IRCCS, Roma, Italy
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9
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Keshava S, Owens S, Qin W, Jeffers A, Kyei P, Komatsu S, Kleam J, Ikebe M, Idell S, Tucker TA. The mTORC2/SGK1/NDRG1 Signaling Axis Is Critical for the Mesomesenchymal Transition of Pleural Mesothelial Cells and the Progression of Pleural Fibrosis. Am J Respir Cell Mol Biol 2024; 70:50-62. [PMID: 37607215 PMCID: PMC10768834 DOI: 10.1165/rcmb.2023-0131oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Progressive lung scarring because of persistent pleural organization often results in pleural fibrosis (PF). This process affects patients with complicated parapneumonic pleural effusions, empyema, and other pleural diseases prone to loculation. In PF, pleural mesothelial cells undergo mesomesenchymal transition (MesoMT) to become profibrotic, characterized by increased expression of α-smooth muscle actin and matrix proteins, including collagen-1. In our previous study, we showed that blocking PI3K/Akt signaling inhibits MesoMT induction in human pleural mesothelial cells (HPMCs) (1). However, the downstream signaling pathways leading to MesoMT induction remain obscure. Here, we investigated the role of mTOR complexes (mTORC1/2) in MesoMT induction. Our studies show that activation of the downstream mediator mTORC1/2 complex is, likewise, a critical component of MesoMT. Specific targeting of mTORC1/2 complex using pharmacological inhibitors such as INK128 and AZD8055 significantly inhibited transforming growth factor β (TGF-β)-induced MesoMT markers in HPMCs. We further identified the mTORC2/Rictor complex as the principal contributor to MesoMT progression induced by TGF-β. Knockdown of Rictor, but not Raptor, attenuated TGF-β-induced MesoMT in these cells. In these studies, we further show that concomitant activation of the SGK1/NDRG1 signaling cascade is essential for inducing MesoMT. Targeting SGK1 and NDRG1 with siRNA and small molecular inhibitors attenuated TGF-β-induced MesoMT in HPMCs. Additionally, preclinical studies in our Streptococcus pneumoniae-mediated mouse model of PF showed that inhibition of mTORC1/2 with INK128 significantly attenuated the progression of PF in subacute and chronic injury. In conclusion, our studies demonstrate that mTORC2/Rictor-mediated activation of SGK1/NDRG1 is critical for MesoMT induction and that targeting this pathway could inhibit or even reverse the progression of MesoMT and PF.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Shuzi Owens
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, and
| | - Wenyi Qin
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, and
| | | | - Perpetual Kyei
- Biotechnology Graduate Program, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Tyler, Tyler, Texas
| | | | - Joshua Kleam
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, and
| | - Mitsuo Ikebe
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, and
| | - Steven Idell
- Texas Lung Injury Institute
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, and
| | - Torry A. Tucker
- Texas Lung Injury Institute
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, and
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10
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Selvarajah B, Platé M, Chambers RC. Pulmonary fibrosis: Emerging diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. Mol Aspects Med 2023; 94:101227. [PMID: 38000335 DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2023.101227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023]
Abstract
Fibrosis is the concluding pathological outcome and major cause of morbidity and mortality in a number of common chronic inflammatory, immune-mediated and metabolic diseases. The progressive deposition of a collagen-rich extracellular matrix (ECM) represents the cornerstone of the fibrotic response and culminates in organ failure and premature death. Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) represents the most rapidly progressive and lethal of all fibrotic diseases with a dismal median survival of 3.5 years from diagnosis. Although the approval of the antifibrotic agents, pirfenidone and nintedanib, for the treatment of IPF signalled a watershed moment for the development of anti-fibrotic therapeutics, these agents slow but do not halt disease progression or improve quality of life. There therefore remains a pressing need for the development of effective therapeutic strategies. In this article, we review emerging therapeutic strategies for IPF as well as the pre-clinical and translational approaches that will underpin a greater understanding of the key pathomechanisms involved in order to transform the way we diagnose and treat pulmonary fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brintha Selvarajah
- Oncogenes and Tumour Metabolism Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
| | - Manuela Platé
- Department of Respiratory Medicine (UCL Respiratory), Division of Medicine, University College London, UK
| | - Rachel C Chambers
- Department of Respiratory Medicine (UCL Respiratory), Division of Medicine, University College London, UK.
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Gong H, Lyu X, Liu Y, Peng N, Tan S, Dong L, Zhang X. Eupatilin inhibits pulmonary fibrosis by activating Sestrin2/PI3K/Akt/mTOR dependent autophagy pathway. Life Sci 2023; 334:122218. [PMID: 37918625 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.122218] [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: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive chronic inflammatory disease with poor clinical outcomes and ineffective drug treatment options. Eupatilin is a major component extracted from the traditional herbal medicine Artemisia asiatica Nakai. Notably, it was demonstrated to have an anti-fibrosis effect in endometrial fibrosis, vocal fold, and hepatic fibrosis. Its role and mechanism in IPF remain unclear. METHODS This study used the TGF-β1-induced human embryonic lung fibroblasts (MRC-5) activation, IPF lung fibroblasts, and bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis mice model. Western blot, immunofluorescence staining, quantitative real time-PCR, hematoxylin and eosin staining, Masson's trichrome staining, and immunohistochemistry were used to evaluate the effects of eupatilin on fibroblast activation, pulmonary fibrosis, and autophagy. The autophagosomes were observed with a transmission electron microscope (TEM). RNA sequencing was used to determine the signaling pathway and key regulator related to autophagy. RESULTS Eupatilin significantly decreased the expression of Col1A1, fibronectin, α-SMA, and SQSTM1/p62. In contrast, it increased the expression of LC3B II/I and the number of autophagosomes in TGF-β1 treated MRC-5, IPF lung fibroblasts, and bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis mice model; it also alleviated bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis. The KEGG pathway mapping displayed that PI3K/Akt and Sestrin2 were associated with the enhanced fibrogenic process. Eupatilin suppressed the phosphorylation of PI3K/Akt/mTOR. Autophagy inhibitor 3-methyladenine (3-MA) and Akt activator SC-79 abrogated the anti-fibrotic effect of eupatilin. Sestrin2 expression was also downregulated in TGF-β1 treated lung fibroblasts and lung tissues of the bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis mice model. Furthermore, eupatilin promoted Sestrin2 expression, and the knockdown of Sestrin2 significantly aggravated the degree of fibrosis, increased the phosphorylation of PI3K/Akt/mTOR, and decreased autophagy. CONCLUSION These findings indicate that eupatilin ameliorates pulmonary fibrosis through Sestrin2/PI3K/Akt/mTOR-dependent autophagy pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Gong
- Department of Geriatrics, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China; Human Clinical Medical Research Center for Geriatric Syndrome, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China
| | - Xing Lyu
- Laboratory of Clinical Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China
| | - Yang Liu
- Department of Geriatrics, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China
| | - Naling Peng
- Department of Geriatrics, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China
| | - Shengyu Tan
- Department of Geriatrics, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China; Human Clinical Medical Research Center for Geriatric Syndrome, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China
| | - Lini Dong
- Department of Geriatrics, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China; Human Clinical Medical Research Center for Geriatric Syndrome, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China
| | - Xiangyu Zhang
- Department of Geriatrics, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China; Human Clinical Medical Research Center for Geriatric Syndrome, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China.
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12
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Cui Y, Yang Z, Lv Z, Lei J. Disruption of extracellular redox balance drives persistent lung fibrosis and impairs fibrosis resolution. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2023; 1869:166842. [PMID: 37558008 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2023.166842] [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: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023]
Abstract
Lung fibrosis is a devastating outcome of various diffuse parenchymal lung diseases. Despite rigorous research efforts, the mechanisms that propagate its progressive and nonresolving nature remain enigmatic. Oxidative stress has been implicated in the pathogenesis of lung fibrosis. However, the role of extracellular redox state in disease progression and resolution remains largely unexplored. Here, we show that compartmentalized control over extracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) by aerosolized delivery of recombinant extracellular superoxide dismutase (ECSOD) suppresses an established bleomycin-induced fibrotic process in mice. Further analysis of publicly available microarray, RNA-seq and single-cell RNAseq datasets reveals a significant decrease in ECSOD expression in fibrotic lung tissues that can be spontaneously restored during fibrosis resolution. Therefore, we investigate the effect of siRNA-mediated ECSOD depletion during the established fibrotic phase on the self-limiting nature of the bleomycin mouse model. Our results demonstrate that in vivo knockdown of ECSOD in mouse fibrotic lungs impairs fibrosis resolution. Mechanistically, we demonstrate that transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 downregulates endogenous ECSOD expression, leading to the accumulation of extracellular superoxide via Smad-mediated signaling and the activation of additional stores of latent TGF-β1. In addition, depletion of endogenous ECSOD during the fibrotic phase in the bleomycin model induces an apoptosis-resistant phenotype in lung fibroblasts through unrestricted Akt signaling. Taken together, our data strongly support the critical role of extracellular redox state in fibrosis persistence and resolution. Based on these findings, we propose that compartment-specific control over extracellular ROS may be a potential therapeutic strategy for managing fibrotic lung disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye Cui
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, People's Republic of China.
| | - Zeran Yang
- Interventional Radiology, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhe Lv
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianfeng Lei
- Medical Imaging Laboratory, Research Core Facilities, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, People's Republic of China
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13
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Luo W, Gu Y, Fu S, Wang J, Zhang J, Wang Y. Emerging opportunities to treat idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis: Design, discovery, and optimizations of small-molecule drugs targeting fibrogenic pathways. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 260:115762. [PMID: 37683364 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115762] [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: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023]
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is the most common fibrotic form of idiopathic diffuse lung disease. Due to limited treatment options, IPF patients suffer from poor survival. About ten years ago, Pirfenidone (Shionogi, 2008; InterMune, 2011) and Nintedanib (Boehringer Ingelheim, 2014) were approved, greatly changing the direction of IPF drug design. However, limited efficacy and side effects indicate that neither can reverse the process of IPF. With insights into the occurrence of IPF, novel targets and agents have been proposed, which have fundamentally changed the treatment of IPF. With the next-generation agents, targeting pro-fibrotic pathways in the epithelial-injury model offers a promising approach. Besides, several next-generation IPF drugs have entered phase II/III clinical trials with encouraging results. Due to the rising IPF treatment requirements, there is an urgent need to completely summarize the mechanisms, targets, problems, and drug design strategies over the past ten years. In this review, we summarize known mechanisms, target types, drug design, and novel technologies of IPF drug discovery, aiming to provide insights into the future development and clinical application of next-generation IPF drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenxin Luo
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Targeted Tracer Research and Development Laboratory, Institute of Respiratory Health, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, Precision Medicine Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province & Precision Medicine Research Center, Joint Research Institution of Altitude Health, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Yilin Gu
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Targeted Tracer Research and Development Laboratory, Institute of Respiratory Health, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, Precision Medicine Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province & Precision Medicine Research Center, Joint Research Institution of Altitude Health, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Siyu Fu
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Targeted Tracer Research and Development Laboratory, Institute of Respiratory Health, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, Precision Medicine Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province & Precision Medicine Research Center, Joint Research Institution of Altitude Health, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Jiaxing Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, 38163, Tennessee, United States
| | - Jifa Zhang
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Targeted Tracer Research and Development Laboratory, Institute of Respiratory Health, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, Precision Medicine Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province & Precision Medicine Research Center, Joint Research Institution of Altitude Health, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China; Frontiers Medical Center, Tianfu Jincheng Laboratory, Chengdu, 610212, Sichuan, China.
| | - Yuxi Wang
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Targeted Tracer Research and Development Laboratory, Institute of Respiratory Health, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, Precision Medicine Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province & Precision Medicine Research Center, Joint Research Institution of Altitude Health, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China; Frontiers Medical Center, Tianfu Jincheng Laboratory, Chengdu, 610212, Sichuan, China.
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14
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Luo YL, Li Y, Zhou W, Wang SY, Liu YQ. Inhibition of LPA-LPAR1 and VEGF-VEGFR2 Signaling in IPF Treatment. Drug Des Devel Ther 2023; 17:2679-2690. [PMID: 37680863 PMCID: PMC10482219 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s415453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Due to the complex mechanism and limited treatments available for pulmonary fibrosis, the development of targeted drugs or inhibitors based on their molecular mechanisms remains an important strategy for prevention and treatment. In this paper, the downstream signaling pathways mediated by VEGFR and LPAR1 in pulmonary cells and the role of these pathways in pulmonary fibrosis, as well as the current status of drug research on the targets of LPAR1 and VEGFR2, are described. The mechanism by which these two pathways regulate vascular leakage and collagen deposition leading to the development of pulmonary fibrosis are analyzed, and the mutual promotion of the two pathways is discussed. Here we propose the development of drugs that simultaneously target LPAR1 and VEGFR2, and discuss the important considerations in targeting and safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Li Luo
- Gansu University Key Laboratory for Molecular Medicine and Chinese Medicine Prevention and Treatment of Major Diseases, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, 730000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yan Li
- Gansu University Key Laboratory for Molecular Medicine and Chinese Medicine Prevention and Treatment of Major Diseases, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, 730000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wen Zhou
- Gansu University Key Laboratory for Molecular Medicine and Chinese Medicine Prevention and Treatment of Major Diseases, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, 730000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Si-Yu Wang
- Gansu University Key Laboratory for Molecular Medicine and Chinese Medicine Prevention and Treatment of Major Diseases, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, 730000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yong-Qi Liu
- Gansu University Key Laboratory for Molecular Medicine and Chinese Medicine Prevention and Treatment of Major Diseases, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, 730000, People’s Republic of China
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15
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Yu D, Xiang Y, Gou T, Tong R, Xu C, Chen L, Zhong L, Shi J. New therapeutic approaches against pulmonary fibrosis. Bioorg Chem 2023; 138:106592. [PMID: 37178650 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2023.106592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Pulmonary fibrosis is the end-stage change of a large class of lung diseases characterized by the proliferation of fibroblasts and the accumulation of a large amount of extracellular matrix, accompanied by inflammatory damage and tissue structure destruction, which also shows the normal alveolar tissue is damaged and then abnormally repaired resulting in structural abnormalities (scarring). Pulmonary fibrosis has a serious impact on the respiratory function of the human body, and the clinical manifestation is progressive dyspnea. The incidence of pulmonary fibrosis-related diseases is increasing year by year, and no curative drugs have appeared so far. Nevertheless, research on pulmonary fibrosis have also increased in recent years, but there are no breakthrough results. Pathological changes of pulmonary fibrosis appear in the lungs of patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) that have not yet ended, and whether to improve the condition of patients with COVID-19 by means of the anti-fibrosis therapy, which are the questions we need to address now. This review systematically sheds light on the current state of research on fibrosis from multiple perspectives, hoping to provide some references for design and optimization of subsequent drugs and the selection of anti-fibrosis treatment plans and strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongke Yu
- Department of Pharmacy, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China; Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China
| | - Yu Xiang
- College of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology, Chengdu 610072, China
| | - Tingting Gou
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacology, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Rongsheng Tong
- Department of Pharmacy, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China; Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China
| | - Chuan Xu
- Department of Oncology, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan 610072, China
| | - Lu Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China; Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China.
| | - Ling Zhong
- Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Disease Gene Study, Center for Medical Genetics, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology, Chengdu 610072, China.
| | - Jianyou Shi
- Department of Pharmacy, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China; Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China.
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16
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Yang W, Pan L, Cheng Y, Wu X, Huang S, Du J, Zhu H, Zhang M, Zhang Y. Amifostine attenuates bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis in mice through inhibition of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway. Sci Rep 2023; 13:10485. [PMID: 37380638 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-34060-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Amifostine is a normal cell protection agent, not only used in the adjuvant therapy of lung cancer, ovarian cancer, breast cancer, nasopharyngeal cancer, bone tumor, digestive tract tumor, blood system tumor and other cancers in order to reduce the toxicity of chemotherapy drugs, and recent studies have reported that the drug can also reduce lung tissue damage in patients with pulmonary fibrosis, but its mechanism of action is not yet fully understood. In this study, we explored the potential therapeutic effects and molecular mechanisms of AMI on bleomycin (BLM)-induced pulmonary fibrosis in mice. A mouse model of pulmonary fibrosis was established using BLM. We then assessed histopathological changes, inflammatory factors, oxidative indicators, apoptosis, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, extracellular matrix changes, and levels of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway-related proteins in the BLM-treated mice to determine the effect of AMI treatment on these factors. BLM-treated mice had substantial lung inflammation and abnormal extracellular matrix deposition. Overall, treatment with AMI significantly improved BLM-induced lung injury and pulmonary fibrosis. More specifically, AMI alleviated BLM-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, alveolar cell apoptosis, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and extracellular matrix deposition by regulating the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway. This finding that AMI can alleviate pulmonary fibrosis in a mouse model by inhibiting activation of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway lays a foundation for potential future clinical application of this agent in patients with pulmonary fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenting Yang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550004, China
| | - Lin Pan
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550004, China
| | - Yiju Cheng
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First People's Hospital of Guiyang, Guiyang, 550004, China.
- Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550004, China.
| | - Xiao Wu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550004, China
| | - Songsong Huang
- Department of Pathology, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550004, China
| | - Juan Du
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550004, China
| | - Honglan Zhu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550004, China
| | - Menglin Zhang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550004, China
| | - Yuquan Zhang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550004, China
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Mitsui Y, Yamabe F, Hori S, Uetani M, Kobayashi H, Nagao K, Nakajima K. Molecular Mechanisms and Risk Factors Related to the Pathogenesis of Peyronie's Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10133. [PMID: 37373277 PMCID: PMC10299070 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241210133] [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: 04/29/2023] [Revised: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Peyronie's disease (PD) is a benign condition caused by plaque formation on the tunica albuginea of the penis. It is associated with penile pain, curvature, and shortening, and contributes to erectile dysfunction, which worsens patient quality of life. In recent years, research into understanding of the detailed mechanisms and risk factors involved in the development of PD has been increasing. In this review, the pathological mechanisms and several closely related signaling pathways, including TGF-β, WNT/β-catenin, Hedgehog, YAP/TAZ, MAPK, ROCK, and PI3K/AKT, are described. Findings regarding cross-talk among these pathways are then discussed to elucidate the complicated cascade behind tunica albuginea fibrosis. Finally, various risk factors including the genes involved in the development of PD are presented and their association with the disease summarized. The purpose of this review is to provide a better understanding regarding the involvement of risk factors in the molecular mechanisms associated with PD pathogenesis, as well as to provide insight into disease prevention and novel therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yozo Mitsui
- Department of Urology, Toho University Faculty of Medicine, Tokyo 143-8540, Japan; (F.Y.); (S.H.); (M.U.); (H.K.); (K.N.); (K.N.)
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18
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Arif M, Basu A, Wolf KM, Park JK, Pommerolle L, Behee M, Gochuico BR, Cinar R. An Integrative Multiomics Framework for Identification of Therapeutic Targets in Pulmonary Fibrosis. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2207454. [PMID: 37038090 PMCID: PMC10238219 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202207454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 02/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is a heterogeneous disease with a poor prognosis. Therefore, identifying additional therapeutic modalities is required to improve outcome. However, the lack of biomarkers of disease progression hampers the preclinical to clinical translational process. Here, this work assesses and identifies progressive alterations in pulmonary function, transcriptomics, and metabolomics in the mouse lung at 7, 14, 21, and 28 days after a single dose of oropharyngeal bleomycin. By integrating multi-omics data, this work identifies two central gene subnetworks associated with multiple critical pathological changes in transcriptomics and metabolomics as well as pulmonary function. This work presents a multi-omics-based framework to establish a translational link between the bleomycin-induced PF model in mice and human idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis to identify druggable targets and test therapeutic candidates. This work also indicates peripheral cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1 R) antagonism as a rational therapeutic target for clinical translation in PF. Mouse Lung Fibrosis Atlas can be accessed freely at https://niaaa.nih.gov/mouselungfibrosisatlas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Arif
- Section on Fibrotic DisordersNational Institute on Alcohol Abuse and AlcoholismNational Institutes of HealthRockvilleMD20852USA
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Physiology and Tissue InjuryNational Institute on Alcohol Abuse and AlcoholismNational Institutes of HealthRockvilleMD20852USA
| | - Abhishek Basu
- Section on Fibrotic DisordersNational Institute on Alcohol Abuse and AlcoholismNational Institutes of HealthRockvilleMD20852USA
| | - Kaelin M. Wolf
- Section on Fibrotic DisordersNational Institute on Alcohol Abuse and AlcoholismNational Institutes of HealthRockvilleMD20852USA
| | - Joshua K. Park
- Laboratory of Physiologic StudiesNational Institute on Alcohol Abuse and AlcoholismNational Institutes of HealthRockvilleMD20852USA
| | - Lenny Pommerolle
- Section on Fibrotic DisordersNational Institute on Alcohol Abuse and AlcoholismNational Institutes of HealthRockvilleMD20852USA
| | - Madeline Behee
- Section on Fibrotic DisordersNational Institute on Alcohol Abuse and AlcoholismNational Institutes of HealthRockvilleMD20852USA
| | - Bernadette R. Gochuico
- Medical Genetics BranchNational Human Genome Research InstituteNational Institutes of Health (NIH)BethesdaMD20892USA
| | - Resat Cinar
- Section on Fibrotic DisordersNational Institute on Alcohol Abuse and AlcoholismNational Institutes of HealthRockvilleMD20852USA
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Lam M, Lamanna E, Organ L, Donovan C, Bourke JE. Perspectives on precision cut lung slices-powerful tools for investigation of mechanisms and therapeutic targets in lung diseases. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1162889. [PMID: 37261291 PMCID: PMC10228656 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1162889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Precision cut lung slices (PCLS) have emerged as powerful experimental tools for respiratory research. Pioneering studies using mouse PCLS to visualize intrapulmonary airway contractility have been extended to pulmonary arteries and for assessment of novel bronchodilators and vasodilators as therapeutics. Additional disease-relevant outcomes, including inflammatory, fibrotic, and regenerative responses, are now routinely measured in PCLS from multiple species, including humans. This review provides an overview of established and innovative uses of PCLS as an intermediary between cellular and organ-based studies and focuses on opportunities to increase their application to investigate mechanisms and therapeutic targets to oppose excessive airway contraction and fibrosis in lung diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maggie Lam
- Department of Pharmacology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Emma Lamanna
- Department of Pharmacology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Institut Pasteur, Unit of Antibodies in Therapy and Pathology, INSERM UMR1222, Paris, France
| | - Louise Organ
- Department of Pharmacology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Chantal Donovan
- School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute and The University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
| | - Jane E. Bourke
- Department of Pharmacology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
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Peng J, Xiao X, Li S, Lyu X, Gong H, Tan S, Dong L, Sanders YY, Zhang X. Aspirin alleviates pulmonary fibrosis through PI3K/AKT/mTOR-mediated autophagy pathway. Exp Gerontol 2023; 172:112085. [PMID: 36623738 DOI: 10.1016/j.exger.2023.112085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic and irreversible lung disease with limited therapeutic options. Aspirin can alleviate liver, kidney, and cardiac fibrosis. However, its role in lung fibrosis is unclear. This study aims to investigate the effects of aspirin on lung fibroblast differentiation and pulmonary fibrosis. TGF-β1-induced human embryonic lung fibroblasts, IPF lung fibroblasts, and bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis mouse model were used in this study. The results showed that aspirin significantly decreased the expression of Collagen 1A1, Fibronectin, Alpha-smooth muscle actin, and equestosome1, and increased the ratio of light chain 3 beta II/I and the number of autophagosome in vivo and in vitro; reduced bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis. Aspirin also decreased the ratios of phosphorylated phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase (p-PI3K)/PI3K, protein kinase B (p-AKT)/AKT, and mechanistic target of rapamycin (p-mTOR)/mTOR in vitro. Autophagy inhibitor 3-methyladenine, bafilomycin-A1, and AKT activator SC-79 abrogated the effects of aspirin. These findings indicate that aspirin ameliorates pulmonary fibrosis through a PI3K/AKT/mTOR-dependent autophagy pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jieting Peng
- Department of Geriatrics, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China
| | - Xun Xiao
- Department of Geriatrics, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China
| | - Shizhen Li
- Department of Geriatrics, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China
| | - Xing Lyu
- Laboratory of Clinical Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China
| | - Hui Gong
- Department of Geriatrics, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China
| | - Shengyu Tan
- Department of Geriatrics, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China
| | - Lini Dong
- Department of Geriatrics, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China
| | - Yan Y Sanders
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | - Xiangyu Zhang
- Department of Geriatrics, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China.
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21
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Li X, Ma X, Miao Y, Zhang J, Xi B, Li W, Zhang Q, Chen L, Yang Y, Li H, Wei L, Zhou H, Yang C. Duvelisib attenuates bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis via inhibiting the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signalling pathway. J Cell Mol Med 2023; 27:422-434. [PMID: 36651446 PMCID: PMC9889612 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.17665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic progressive interstitial lung disease that seriously threatens the health of patients. The pathogenesis of IPF is still unclear, and there is a lack of effective therapeutic drugs. Myofibroblasts are the main effector cells of IPF, leading to excessive deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) and promoting the progression of fibrosis. Inhibiting the excessive activation and relieving autophagy blockage of myofibroblasts is the key to treat IPF. PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway plays a key regulatory role in promoting fibroblast activation and autophagy inhibition in lung fibrosis. Duvelisib is a PI3K inhibitor that can simultaneously inhibit the activities of PI3K-δ and PI3K-γ, and is mainly used for the treatment of relapsed/refractory chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) and small lymphocytic lymphoma tumour (SLL). In this study, we aimed to examine the effects of Duvelisib on pulmonary fibrosis. We used a mouse model of bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis to evaluate the effects of Duvelisib on pulmonary fibrosis in vivo and further explored the potential pharmacological mechanisms of Duvelisib in lung fibroblasts in vitro. The in vivo experiments showed that Duvelisib significantly alleviated bleomycin-induced collagen deposition and improved pulmonary function. In vitro and in vivo pharmacological experiments showed that Duvelisib dose-dependently suppressed lung fibroblast activation and improved autophagy inhibition by inhibiting the phosphorylation of PI3K, Akt and mTOR. Our results indicate that Duvelisib can alleviate the severity of pulmonary fibrosis and provide potential drugs for the treatment of pulmonary fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohe Li
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug ResearchNankai UniversityTianjinChina,Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug ResearchTianjin International Joint Academy of BiomedicineTianjinChina
| | - Xiaoyang Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug ResearchNankai UniversityTianjinChina,Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug ResearchTianjin International Joint Academy of BiomedicineTianjinChina
| | - Yang Miao
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug ResearchNankai UniversityTianjinChina,Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug ResearchTianjin International Joint Academy of BiomedicineTianjinChina
| | - Jianwei Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug ResearchNankai UniversityTianjinChina,Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug ResearchTianjin International Joint Academy of BiomedicineTianjinChina
| | - Buri Xi
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug ResearchNankai UniversityTianjinChina,Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug ResearchTianjin International Joint Academy of BiomedicineTianjinChina
| | - Wenqi Li
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug ResearchNankai UniversityTianjinChina,Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug ResearchTianjin International Joint Academy of BiomedicineTianjinChina
| | - Qianyi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug ResearchNankai UniversityTianjinChina,Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug ResearchTianjin International Joint Academy of BiomedicineTianjinChina
| | - Li Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug ResearchNankai UniversityTianjinChina,Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug ResearchTianjin International Joint Academy of BiomedicineTianjinChina
| | - Yue Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug ResearchNankai UniversityTianjinChina,Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug ResearchTianjin International Joint Academy of BiomedicineTianjinChina
| | - Hongli Li
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care MedicineTianjin Beichen HospitalTianjinChina
| | - Luqing Wei
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care MedicineTianjin Beichen HospitalTianjinChina
| | - Honggang Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug ResearchNankai UniversityTianjinChina,Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug ResearchTianjin International Joint Academy of BiomedicineTianjinChina
| | - Cheng Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug ResearchNankai UniversityTianjinChina,Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug ResearchTianjin International Joint Academy of BiomedicineTianjinChina
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22
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Staab-Weijnitz CA, Onursal C, Nambiar D, Vanacore R. Assessment of Collagen in Translational Models of Lung Research. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2023; 1413:213-244. [PMID: 37195533 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-26625-6_11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
The extracellular matrix (ECM) plays an important role in lung health and disease. Collagen is the main component of the lung ECM, widely used for the establishment of in vitro and organotypic models of lung disease, and as scaffold material of general interest for the field of lung bioengineering. Collagen also is the main readout for fibrotic lung disease, where collagen composition and molecular properties are drastically changed and ultimately result in dysfunctional "scarred" tissue. Because of the central role of collagen in lung disease, quantification, determination of molecular properties, and three-dimensional visualization of collagen is important for both development and characterization of translational models of lung research. In this chapter, we provide a comprehensive overview on the various methodologies currently available for quantification and characterization of collagen including their detection principles, advantages, and disadvantages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia A Staab-Weijnitz
- Institute of Lung Health and Immunity and Comprehensive Pneumology Center with the CPC-M BioArchive, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität and Helmholtz Zentrum München, Munich, Germany.
| | - Ceylan Onursal
- Institute of Lung Health and Immunity and Comprehensive Pneumology Center with the CPC-M BioArchive, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität and Helmholtz Zentrum München, Munich, Germany
| | - Deepika Nambiar
- Center for Matrix Biology, Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Roberto Vanacore
- Center for Matrix Biology, Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA.
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23
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Huang J, Chen L, Wu J, Ai D, Zhang JQ, Chen TG, Wang L. Targeting the PI3K/AKT/mTOR Signaling Pathway in the Treatment of Human Diseases: Current Status, Trends, and Solutions. J Med Chem 2022; 65:16033-16061. [PMID: 36503229 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c01070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway is one of the most important intracellular pathways involved in cell proliferation, growth, differentiation, and survival. Therefore, this route is a prospective biological target for treating various human diseases, such as tumors, neurodegenerative diseases, pulmonary fibrosis, and diabetes. An increasing number of clinical studies emphasize the necessity of developing novel molecules targeting the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway. This review focuses on recent advances in ATP-competitive inhibitors, allosteric inhibitors, covalent inhibitors, and proteolysis-targeting chimeras against the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway, and highlights possible solutions for overcoming the toxicities and acquired drug resistance of currently available drugs. We also provide recommendations for the future design and development of promising drugs targeting this pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jindi Huang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Fermentation and Enzyme Engineering, Joint International Research Laboratory of Synthetic Biology and Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Engineering and Technology Research Center of Biopharmaceuticals, School of Biology and Biological Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Liye Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Fermentation and Enzyme Engineering, Joint International Research Laboratory of Synthetic Biology and Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Engineering and Technology Research Center of Biopharmaceuticals, School of Biology and Biological Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Jiangxia Wu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Fermentation and Enzyme Engineering, Joint International Research Laboratory of Synthetic Biology and Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Engineering and Technology Research Center of Biopharmaceuticals, School of Biology and Biological Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Daiqiao Ai
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Fermentation and Enzyme Engineering, Joint International Research Laboratory of Synthetic Biology and Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Engineering and Technology Research Center of Biopharmaceuticals, School of Biology and Biological Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Ji-Quan Zhang
- College of Pharmacy, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550004, China
| | - Tie-Gen Chen
- Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Room 109, Building C, SSIP Healthcare and Medicine Demonstration Zone, Zhongshan Tsuihang New District, Zhongshan, Guangdong 528400, China
| | - Ling Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Fermentation and Enzyme Engineering, Joint International Research Laboratory of Synthetic Biology and Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Engineering and Technology Research Center of Biopharmaceuticals, School of Biology and Biological Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
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24
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The identification and validation of hub genes associated with advanced IPF by weighted gene co-expression network analysis. Funct Integr Genomics 2022; 22:1127-1138. [PMID: 36107393 DOI: 10.1007/s10142-022-00901-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
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25
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Xu G, Feng S, Sun R, Ding Q, Shi Y. Systematic Analysis Strategy Based on Network Pharmacology to Investigate the Potential Mechanism of Fritillaria thunbergii Miq. against Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE : ECAM 2022; 2022:2996878. [PMID: 36479180 PMCID: PMC9722288 DOI: 10.1155/2022/2996878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 11/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a long-term, distressing, and age-related interstitial lung disease characterized by a complicated etiology and irreversible progression. Fritillaria thunbergii Miq. (Zhe Beimu, ZBM) is frequently used for its heat-clearing and phlegm-resolving properties in herbal compounds for the treatment of IPF. However, the specific mechanisms underlying the effects of ZBM against IPF have not yet been reported. In this study, we applied a systematic analysis strategy based on network pharmacology to explore the probable core targets and major pathways of ZBM against IPF. In addition, molecular docking simulation and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) were performed to preliminarily investigate the possible mechanisms underlying the therapeutic effects of ZBM on IPF. We collected a total of 86 components of ZBM and used network pharmacology analysis to screen nine presumptive targets of ZBM against IPF. The molecular-docking results indicated that the components of ZBM exhibited good binding activity with presumptive targets. The qRT-PCR results also suggested that ZBM may partly alleviate IPF by regulating the expression of presumptive targets. This study laid the foundation for further clinical applications of ZBM and the development of IPF-related therapeutic products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gonghao Xu
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Siwen Feng
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Rui Sun
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Qi Ding
- Shenzhen Research Institute, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen 518118, China
| | - Yuanyuan Shi
- Shenzhen Research Institute, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen 518118, China
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, China
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26
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Perrotta F, Chino V, Allocca V, D’Agnano V, Bortolotto C, Bianco A, Corsico AG, Stella GM. Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and lung cancer: targeting the complexity of the pharmacological interconnection. Expert Rev Respir Med 2022; 16:1043-1055. [DOI: 10.1080/17476348.2022.2145948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Perrotta
- - Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, 80131, Napoli, Italy
- - U.O.C. Clinica Pneumologica “L. Vanvitelli”, A.O. dei Colli, Ospedale Monaldi, 80131, Napoli, Italy
| | - Vittorio Chino
- - University of Pavia Medical School, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- - Department of Medical Sciences and Infective Diseases, Unit of Respiratory Diseases, IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo Foundation and University of Pavia Medical School, Pavia, Italy
| | - Valentino Allocca
- - Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, 80131, Napoli, Italy
- - U.O.C. Clinica Pneumologica “L. Vanvitelli”, A.O. dei Colli, Ospedale Monaldi, 80131, Napoli, Italy
| | - Vito D’Agnano
- - Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, 80131, Napoli, Italy
- - U.O.C. Clinica Pneumologica “L. Vanvitelli”, A.O. dei Colli, Ospedale Monaldi, 80131, Napoli, Italy
| | - Chandra Bortolotto
- - Dept. of Clinical-Surgical, Diagnostic and Paediatric Sciences, University of Pavia Medical School, Pavia, Italy
- - Department of Intensive Medicine, Unit of Radiology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Andrea Bianco
- - Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, 80131, Napoli, Italy
- - U.O.C. Clinica Pneumologica “L. Vanvitelli”, A.O. dei Colli, Ospedale Monaldi, 80131, Napoli, Italy
| | - Angelo Guido Corsico
- - Department of Medical Sciences and Infective Diseases, Unit of Respiratory Diseases, IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo Foundation and University of Pavia Medical School, Pavia, Italy
- - Dept. of Internal Medicine and Medical Therapeutics, University of Pavia Medical School, Pavia, Italy
| | - Giulia Maria Stella
- - Department of Medical Sciences and Infective Diseases, Unit of Respiratory Diseases, IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo Foundation and University of Pavia Medical School, Pavia, Italy
- - Dept. of Internal Medicine and Medical Therapeutics, University of Pavia Medical School, Pavia, Italy
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27
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Zimmermann CM, Baldassi D, Chan K, Adams NBP, Neumann A, Porras-Gonzalez DL, Wei X, Kneidinger N, Stoleriu MG, Burgstaller G, Witzigmann D, Luciani P, Merkel OM. Spray drying siRNA-lipid nanoparticles for dry powder pulmonary delivery. J Control Release 2022; 351:137-150. [PMID: 36126785 PMCID: PMC7613708 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2022.09.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
While all the siRNA drugs on the market target the liver, the lungs offer a variety of currently undruggable targets which could potentially be treated with RNA therapeutics. Hence, local, pulmonary delivery of RNA nanoparticles could finally enable delivery beyond the liver. The administration of RNA drugs via dry powder inhalers offers many advantages related to physical, chemical and microbial stability of RNA and nanosuspensions. The present study was therefore designed to test the feasibility of engineering spray dried lipid nanoparticle (LNP) powders. Spray drying was performed using 5% lactose solution (m/V), and the targets were set to obtain nanoparticle sizes after redispersion of spray-dried powders around 150 nm, a residual moisture level below 5%, and RNA loss below 15% at maintained RNA bioactivity. The LNPs consisted of an ionizable cationic lipid which is a sulfur-containing analog of DLin-MC3-DMA, a helper lipid, cholesterol, and PEG-DMG encapsulating siRNA. Prior to the spray drying, the latter process was simulated with a novel dual emission fluorescence spectroscopy method to preselect the highest possible drying temperature and excipient solution maintaining LNP integrity and stability. Through characterization of physicochemical and aerodynamic properties of the spray dried powders, administration criteria for delivery to the lower respiratory tract were fulfilled. Spray dried LNPs penetrated the lung mucus layer and maintained bioactivity for >90% protein downregulation with a confirmed safety profile in a lung adenocarcinoma cell line. Additionally, the spray dried LNPs successfully achieved up to 50% gene silencing of the house keeping gene GAPDH in ex vivo human precision-cut lung slices at without increasing cytokine levels. This study verifies the successful spray drying procedure of LNP-siRNA systems maintaining their integrity and mediating strong gene silencing efficiency on mRNA and protein levels both in vitro and ex vivo. The successful spray drying procedure of LNP-siRNA formulations in 5% lactose solution creates a novel siRNA-based therapy option to target respiratory diseases such as lung cancer, asthma, COPD, cystic fibrosis and viral infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christoph M Zimmermann
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians Universität München, 81377 Munich, Germany; Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Pharmacy, University Bern, Freiestrasse 3, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Domizia Baldassi
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians Universität München, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Karen Chan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada; NanoMedicines Innovation Network (NMIN), 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Nathan B P Adams
- Nanotemper Technologies GmbH, Flößergasse 4, 81369 Munich, Germany
| | - Alina Neumann
- Nanotemper Technologies GmbH, Flößergasse 4, 81369 Munich, Germany
| | - Diana Leidy Porras-Gonzalez
- Institute of Lung Health and Immunity (LHI) and Comprehensive Pneumology Center (CPC) with the CPC-M bioArchive, Helmholtz Munich, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Munich, Germany
| | - Xin Wei
- Institute of Lung Health and Immunity (LHI) and Comprehensive Pneumology Center (CPC) with the CPC-M bioArchive, Helmholtz Munich, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Munich, Germany
| | - Nikolaus Kneidinger
- Department of Medicine V, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Munich, Germany
| | - Mircea Gabriel Stoleriu
- Center for Thoracic Surgery Munich, Ludwig-Maximilians-University of Munich (LMU) and Asklepios Pulmonary Hospital, Marchioninistraße 15, 81377 Munich and Robert-Koch-Allee 2, 82131 Gauting, Germany
| | - Gerald Burgstaller
- Institute of Lung Health and Immunity (LHI) and Comprehensive Pneumology Center (CPC) with the CPC-M bioArchive, Helmholtz Munich, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Munich, Germany
| | - Dominik Witzigmann
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada; NanoMedicines Innovation Network (NMIN), 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada; NanoVation Therapeutics Inc., 2405 Wesbrook Mall 4th Floor, Vancouver V6T 1Z3, Canada.
| | - Paola Luciani
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Pharmacy, University Bern, Freiestrasse 3, Bern, Switzerland.
| | - Olivia M Merkel
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians Universität München, 81377 Munich, Germany; Institute of Lung Health and Immunity (LHI) and Comprehensive Pneumology Center (CPC) with the CPC-M bioArchive, Helmholtz Munich, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Munich, Germany.
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28
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Abstract
Mechanical variables such as stiffness, stress, strain, and fluid shear stress are central to tissue functions, thus, must be maintained within the proper range. Mechanics are especially important in the cardiovascular system and lung, the functions of which are essentially mechanical. Mechanical homeostasis is characterized by negative feedback in which deviations from the optimal value or set point activates mechanisms to return the system to the correct range. In chronic diseases, homeostatic mechanisms are generally overcome or replaced with positive feedback loops that promote disease progression. Recent work has shown that microRNAs (miRNAs) are essential to mechanical homeostasis in a number of biological systems and that perturbations to miRNA biogenesis play key roles in cardiovascular and pulmonary diseases. In this review, we integrate current knowledge of miRNAs in mechanical homeostasis and how these mechanisms are altered in disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy A Herrera
- The Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PT, United Kingdom
| | - Martin A Schwartz
- Yale Cardiovascular Research Center and Departments of Internal Medicine (Cardiology), Cell Biology, and Biomedical Engineering, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven 06511, Connecticut, USA
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29
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van Bavel JJA, Pham C, Beekman HDM, Houtman MJC, Bossu A, Sparidans RW, van der Heyden MAG, Vos MA. PI3K/mTOR inhibitor omipalisib prolongs cardiac repolarization along with a mild proarrhythmic outcome in the AV block dog model. Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 9:956538. [PMID: 35990966 PMCID: PMC9381882 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2022.956538] [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] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) signaling pathway is an interesting target in cancer treatment. The awareness of the proarrhythmic risk of PI3K inhibitors was raised because PI3K is also involved in regulating signaling toward cardiac ion channels. Canine cardiomyocytes treated with PI3K inhibitors show an increased action potential duration and reduced cardiac repolarizing currents. Now, the potential proarrhythmic effect of chronic treatment of PI3K/mTOR inhibitor GSK2126458 (omipalisib) was investigated in the atrioventricular (AV) block dog model. Methods Purpose-bred Mongrel dogs received complete AV block by ablation of the bundle of His and their hearts were paced in the right ventricular apex at VDD-mode (RVA-VDD). In this way, sinus rhythm was maintained for 15 ± 1 days and thereby bradycardia-induced cardiac remodeling was prevented. Dogs received 1 mg/kg omipalisib once (n = 3) or twice (n = 10) a day via oral administration for 7 days. Under standardized conditions (anesthesia, bradycardia at 60 beats/min, and a dofetilide challenge), potential proarrhythmic effects of omipalisib were investigated. Results Twice daily dosing of omipalisib increased accumulative plasma levels compared to once daily dosing accompanied with adverse events. Omipalisib prolonged the QT interval at baseline and more strongly after the dofetilide challenge (490 ± 37 to 607 ± 48 ms). The arrhythmic outcome after omipalisib resulted in single ectopic beats in 30% of dogs perpetuating in multiple ectopic beats and TdP arrhythmia in 20% of dogs. Isolated ventricular cardiomyocytes from omipalisib-treated dogs showed a diminished IKs current density. Conclusion Chronic treatment of PI3K/mTOR inhibitor omipalisib prolonged the QT interval in a preclinical model under standardized proarrhythmic conditions. Furthermore, this study showed that electrical remodeling induced by omipalisib had a mild proarrhythmic outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. J. A. van Bavel
- Division of Heart and Lungs, Department of Medical Physiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - C. Pham
- Division of Heart and Lungs, Department of Medical Physiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - H. D. M. Beekman
- Division of Heart and Lungs, Department of Medical Physiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - M. J. C. Houtman
- Division of Heart and Lungs, Department of Medical Physiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - A. Bossu
- Division of Heart and Lungs, Department of Medical Physiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - R. W. Sparidans
- Division Pharmacology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - M. A. G. van der Heyden
- Division of Heart and Lungs, Department of Medical Physiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
- *Correspondence: M. A. G. van der Heyden
| | - M. A. Vos
- Division of Heart and Lungs, Department of Medical Physiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
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30
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Ma H, Wu X, Li Y, Xia Y. Research Progress in the Molecular Mechanisms, Therapeutic Targets, and Drug Development of Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:963054. [PMID: 35935869 PMCID: PMC9349351 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.963054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a fatal interstitial lung disease. Recent studies have identified the key role of crosstalk between dysregulated epithelial cells, mesenchymal, immune, and endothelial cells in IPF. In addition, genetic mutations and environmental factors (e.g., smoking) have also been associated with the development of IPF. With the recent development of sequencing technology, epigenetics, as an intermediate link between gene expression and environmental impacts, has also been reported to be implicated in pulmonary fibrosis. Although the etiology of IPF is unknown, many novel therapeutic targets and agents have emerged from clinical trials for IPF treatment in the past years, and the successful launch of pirfenidone and nintedanib has demonstrated the promising future of anti-IPF therapy. Therefore, we aimed to gain an in-depth understanding of the underlying molecular mechanisms and pathogenic factors of IPF, which would be helpful for the diagnosis of IPF, the development of anti-fibrotic drugs, and improving the prognosis of patients with IPF. In this study, we summarized the pathogenic mechanism, therapeutic targets and clinical trials from the perspective of multiple cell types, gene mutations, epigenetic and environmental factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongbo Ma
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xuyi Wu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Rehabilitation Medicine in Sichuan Province/Rehabilitation Medicine Research Institute, Chengdu, China
| | - Yi Li
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Rehabilitation Medicine in Sichuan Province/Rehabilitation Medicine Research Institute, Chengdu, China
| | - Yong Xia
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Rehabilitation Medicine in Sichuan Province/Rehabilitation Medicine Research Institute, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Yong Xia,
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31
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Jeong MH, Han H, Lagares D, Im H. Recent Advances in Molecular Diagnosis of Pulmonary Fibrosis for Precision Medicine. ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2022; 5:520-538. [DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.2c00028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mi Ho Jeong
- Center for Systems Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, United States
| | - Hongwei Han
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, United States
| | - David Lagares
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, United States
| | - Hyungsoon Im
- Center for Systems Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, United States
- Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, United States
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32
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Targeting fibrosis, mechanisms and cilinical trials. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2022; 7:206. [PMID: 35773269 PMCID: PMC9247101 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-022-01070-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Revised: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis is characterized by the excessive extracellular matrix deposition due to dysregulated wound and connective tissue repair response. Multiple organs can develop fibrosis, including the liver, kidney, heart, and lung. Fibrosis such as liver cirrhosis, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, and cystic fibrosis caused substantial disease burden. Persistent abnormal activation of myofibroblasts mediated by various signals, such as transforming growth factor, platelet-derived growth factor, and fibroblast growh factor, has been recongized as a major event in the occurrence and progression of fibrosis. Although the mechanisms driving organ-specific fibrosis have not been fully elucidated, drugs targeting these identified aberrant signals have achieved potent anti-fibrotic efficacy in clinical trials. In this review, we briefly introduce the aetiology and epidemiology of several fibrosis diseases, including liver fibrosis, kidney fibrosis, cardiac fibrosis, and pulmonary fibrosis. Then, we summarise the abnormal cells (epithelial cells, endothelial cells, immune cells, and fibroblasts) and their interactions in fibrosis. In addition, we also focus on the aberrant signaling pathways and therapeutic targets that regulate myofibroblast activation, extracellular matrix cross-linking, metabolism, and inflammation in fibrosis. Finally, we discuss the anti-fibrotic drugs based on their targets and clinical trials. This review provides reference for further research on fibrosis mechanism, drug development, and clinical trials.
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Yu HX, Feng Z, Lin W, Yang K, Liu RQ, Li JQ, Liu XY, Pei M, Yang HT. Ongoing Clinical Trials in Aging-Related Tissue Fibrosis and New Findings Related to AhR Pathways. Aging Dis 2022; 13:732-752. [PMID: 35656117 PMCID: PMC9116921 DOI: 10.14336/ad.2021.1105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis is a pathological manifestation of wound healing that replaces dead/damaged tissue with collagen-rich scar tissue to maintain homeostasis, and complications from fibrosis contribute to nearly half of all deaths in the industrialized world. Ageing is closely associated with a progressive decline in organ function, and the prevalence of tissue fibrosis dramatically increases with age. Despite the heavy clinical and economic burden of organ fibrosis as the population ages, to date, there is a paucity of therapeutic strategies that are specifically designed to slow fibrosis. Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is an environment-sensing transcription factor that exacerbates aging phenotypes in different tissues that has been brought back into the spotlight again with economic development since AhR could interact with persistent organic pollutants derived from incomplete waste combustion. In addition, gut microbiota dysbiosis plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of numerous diseases, and microbiota-associated tryptophan metabolites are dedicated contributors to fibrogenesis by acting as AhR ligands. Therefore, a better understanding of the effects of tryptophan metabolites on fibrosis modulation through AhR may facilitate the exploitation of new therapeutic avenues for patients with organ fibrosis. In this review, we primarily focus on how tryptophan-derived metabolites are involved in renal fibrosis, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, hepatic fibrosis and cardiac fibrosis. Moreover, a series of ongoing clinical trials are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hang-Xing Yu
- 1Department of Nephrology, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China.,2National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhe Feng
- 3Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, Shaanxi, China
| | - Wei Lin
- 1Department of Nephrology, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China.,2National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Kang Yang
- 4Kidney Disease Treatment Center, The first affiliated hospital of Henan university of CM, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Rui-Qi Liu
- 1Department of Nephrology, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China.,2National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Jia-Qi Li
- 1Department of Nephrology, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China.,2National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Xin-Yue Liu
- 1Department of Nephrology, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China.,2National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Ming Pei
- 1Department of Nephrology, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China.,2National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Hong-Tao Yang
- 1Department of Nephrology, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China.,2National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
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34
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PI3K Signaling in Mechanisms and Treatments of Pulmonary Fibrosis Following Sepsis and Acute Lung Injury. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10040756. [PMID: 35453505 PMCID: PMC9028704 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10040756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Revised: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary fibrosis is a pathological fibrotic process affecting the lungs of five million people worldwide. The incidence rate will increase even more in the next years due to the long-COVID-19 syndrome, but a resolving treatment is not available yet and usually prognosis is poor. The emerging role of the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT signaling in fibrotic processes has inspired the testing of drugs targeting the PI3K/Akt pathway that are currently under clinical evaluation. This review highlights the progress in understanding the role of PI3K/Akt in the development of lung fibrosis and its causative pathological context, including sepsis as well as acute lung injury (ALI) and its consequent acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). We further summarize current knowledge about PI3K inhibitors for pulmonary fibrosis treatment, including drugs under development as well as in clinical trials. We finally discuss how the design of inhaled compounds targeting the PI3K pathways might potentiate efficacy and improve tolerability.
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35
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Tucker TA, Idell S. Update on Novel Targeted Therapy for Pleural Organization and Fibrosis. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23031587. [PMID: 35163509 PMCID: PMC8835949 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23031587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Pleural injury and subsequent loculation is characterized by acute injury, sustained inflammation and, when severe, pathologic tissue reorganization. While fibrin deposition is a normal part of the injury response, disordered fibrin turnover can promote pleural loculation and, when unresolved, fibrosis of the affected area. Within this review, we present a brief discussion of the current IPFT therapies, including scuPA, for the treatment of pathologic fibrin deposition and empyema. We also discuss endogenously expressed PAI-1 and how it may affect the efficacy of IPFT therapies. We further delineate the role of pleural mesothelial cells in the progression of pleural injury and subsequent pleural remodeling resulting from matrix deposition. We also describe how pleural mesothelial cells promote pleural fibrosis as myofibroblasts via mesomesenchymal transition. Finally, we discuss novel therapeutic targets which focus on blocking and/or reversing the myofibroblast differentiation of pleural mesothelial cells for the treatment of pleural fibrosis.
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36
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Molecular pathways and role of epigenetics in the idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Life Sci 2022; 291:120283. [PMID: 34998839 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.120283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Revised: 12/19/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a fatal lung disease with unknown etiological factors that can progress to other dangerous diseases like lung cancer. Environmental and genetic predisposition are the two major etiological or risk factors involved in the pathology of the IPF. Among the environmental risk factors, smoking is one of the major causes for the development of IPF. Epigenetic pathways like nucleosomes remodeling, DNA methylation, histone modifications and miRNA mediated genes play a crucial role in development of IPF. Mutations in the genes make the epigenetic factors as important drug targets in IPF. Transcriptional changes due to environmental factors are also involved in the progression of IPF. The mutations in human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) have shown decreased life expectancy in IPF patients. The TERT-gene is highly expressed in chronic smokers and makes the role of epigenetics evident. Drug like nintedanib acts through vascular endothelial growth factor receptors (VEGFR), while drug pirfenidone acts through transforming growth factor (TGF), which is useful in IPF. Gefitinib, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor of EGFR, is useful as an anti-fibrosis agent in preclinical models. Newer drugs such as Celgene-CC90001 and FibroGen-FG-3019 are currently under investigations acts through the modulating epigenetic mechanisms. Thus, the study on epigenetics opens a wide window for the discovery of newer drugs. This study provides an elementary analysis of multiple regulators of epigenetics and their roles associated with the pathology of IPF. Further, this review also includes epigenetic drugs under development in preclinical and clinical stages.
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37
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Wang J, Hu K, Cai X, Yang B, He Q, Wang J, Weng Q. Targeting PI3K/AKT signaling for treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Acta Pharm Sin B 2022; 12:18-32. [PMID: 35127370 PMCID: PMC8799876 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2021.07.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 48.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Revised: 06/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic progressive fibrotic interstitial pneumonia with unknown causes. The incidence rate increases year by year and the prognosis is poor without cure. Recently, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (PKB/AKT) signaling pathway can be considered as a master regulator for IPF. The contribution of the PI3K/AKT in fibrotic processes is increasingly prominent, with PI3K/AKT inhibitors currently under clinical evaluation in IPF. Therefore, PI3K/AKT represents a critical signaling node during fibrogenesis with potential implications for the development of novel anti-fibrotic strategies. This review epitomizes the progress that is being made in understanding the complex interpretation of the cause of IPF, and demonstrates that PI3K/AKT can directly participate to the greatest extent in the formation of IPF or cooperate with other pathways to promote the development of fibrosis. We further summarize promising PI3K/AKT inhibitors with IPF treatment benefits, including inhibitors in clinical trials and pre-clinical studies and natural products, and discuss how these inhibitors mitigate fibrotic progression to explore possible potential agents, which will help to develop effective treatment strategies for IPF in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jincheng Wang
- Center for Drug Safety Evaluation and Research, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Kaili Hu
- Center for Drug Safety Evaluation and Research, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Hangzhou Institute of Innovative Medicine, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Xuanyan Cai
- Center for Drug Safety Evaluation and Research, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Bo Yang
- Hangzhou Institute of Innovative Medicine, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Qiaojun He
- Center for Drug Safety Evaluation and Research, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Hangzhou Institute of Innovative Medicine, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Jiajia Wang
- Center for Drug Safety Evaluation and Research, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Qinjie Weng
- Center for Drug Safety Evaluation and Research, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Hangzhou Institute of Innovative Medicine, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
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38
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Fagone E, Fruciano M, Gili E, Sambataro G, Vancheri C. Developing PI3K Inhibitors for Respiratory Diseases. Curr Top Microbiol Immunol 2022; 436:437-466. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-06566-8_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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39
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Genome-Wide RNAi Screening Identifies Novel Pathways/Genes Involved in Oxidative Stress and Repurposable Drugs to Preserve Cystic Fibrosis Airway Epithelial Cell Integrity. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:antiox10121936. [PMID: 34943039 PMCID: PMC8750174 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10121936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Recurrent infection-inflammation cycles in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients generate a highly oxidative environment, leading to progressive destruction of the airway epithelia. The identification of novel modifier genes involved in oxidative stress susceptibility in the CF airways might contribute to devise new therapeutic approaches. We performed an unbiased genome-wide RNAi screen using a randomized siRNA library to identify oxidative stress modulators in CF airway epithelial cells. We monitored changes in cell viability after a lethal dose of hydrogen peroxide. Local similarity and protein-protein interaction network analyses uncovered siRNA target genes/pathways involved in oxidative stress. Further mining against public drug databases allowed identifying and validating commercially available drugs conferring oxidative stress resistance. Accordingly, a catalog of 167 siRNAs able to confer oxidative stress resistance in CF submucosal gland cells targeted 444 host genes and multiple circuitries involved in oxidative stress. The most significant processes were related to alternative splicing and cell communication, motility, and remodeling (impacting cilia structure/function, and cell guidance complexes). Other relevant pathways included DNA repair and PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling. The mTOR inhibitor everolimus, the α1-adrenergic receptor antagonist doxazosin, and the Syk inhibitor fostamatinib significantly increased the viability of CF submucosal gland cells under strong oxidative stress pressure. Thus, novel therapeutic strategies to preserve airway cell integrity from the harsh oxidative milieu of CF airways could stem from a deep understanding of the complex consequences of oxidative stress at the molecular level, followed by a rational repurposing of existing "protective" drugs. This approach could also prove useful to other respiratory pathologies.
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40
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Zhang C, Wang S, Lau J, Roden AC, Matteson EL, Sun J, Luo F, Tschumperlin DJ, Vassallo R. IL-23 amplifies the epithelial-mesenchymal transition of mechanically conditioned alveolar epithelial cells in rheumatoid arthritis-associated interstitial lung disease through mTOR/S6 signaling. Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol 2021; 321:L1006-L1022. [PMID: 34585990 DOI: 10.1152/ajplung.00292.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) creates an environment facilitating fibrosis following alveolar epithelial cell injury. IL-23 has important roles in chronic autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis (RA), but its role in the interstitial lung disease that affects patients with RA is unclear. This study aimed to determine the profibrogenic role of IL-23 on somatic alveolar type I (ATI) epithelial cells. Primary ATI cells were isolated from rats and cultured on plastic dishes for 1-3 wk. After prolonged culture (≥14 days) on rigid culture dishes, primary ATI cells gradually acquired a mesenchymal phenotype, identified by decreased expression of caveolin-1, and reorganization of F-actin cytoskeleton, indicating the initiation of EMT by matrix stiffness. To determine how IL-23 promotes EMT in vitro, transitioning ATI cells, cultured on a stiff substrate for ≥14 days were stimulated with IL-23. The EMT phenotype was significantly enhanced by IL-23, which upregulated α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), collagen I/III protein, and decreased caveolin-1. Furthermore, IL-23 significantly promoted cell invasion, as well as apoptotic resistance on transitioning ATI cells. Mechanistically, IL-23-induced EMT was mammalian target of rapamycin/ribosomal protein S6 (mTOR/S6) signaling dependent and reversible by rapamycin. Transcriptional sequencing analysis of human lung fibrosis biopsy tissue revealed key roles for IL-23 in rheumatoid arthritis-associated interstitial lung disease (RA-ILD). This result was further validated by significantly upregulated IL-23 expression at the mRNA level in RA-ILD lung sections. Notably, transitioning ATI epithelial cells were abundantly detected in RA-ILD tissue. Taken together, these data support a role for IL-23 in the pathogenesis of RA lung fibrosis by promoting EMT in alveolar epithelial cells through mTOR/S6 signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chujie Zhang
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, Minnesota.,Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, West China School of Medicine and West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Shaohua Wang
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Jessica Lau
- Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, The Vancouver Clinic, Vancouver, Washington
| | - Anja C Roden
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Eric L Matteson
- Division of Rheumatology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Jie Sun
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, Minnesota.,Department of Immunology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, Minnesota.,Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Fengming Luo
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, West China School of Medicine and West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Daniel J Tschumperlin
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, Minnesota.,Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Robert Vassallo
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, Minnesota.,Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, Minnesota
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41
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Preuß EB, Schubert S, Werlein C, Stark H, Braubach P, Höfer A, Plucinski EKJ, Shah HR, Geffers R, Sewald K, Braun A, Jonigk DD, Kühnel MP. The Challenge of Long-Term Cultivation of Human Precision-Cut Lung Slices. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2021; 192:239-253. [PMID: 34767811 PMCID: PMC8891143 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2021.10.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Revised: 10/10/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Human precision-cut lung slices (PCLS) have proven to be an invaluable tool for numerous toxicologic, pharmacologic, and immunologic studies. Although a cultivation period of <1 week is sufficient for most studies, modeling of complex disease mechanisms and investigating effects of long-term exposure to certain substances require cultivation periods that are much longer. So far, data regarding tissue integrity of long-term cultivated PCLS are incomplete. More than 1500 human PCLS from 16 different donors were cultivated under standardized, serum-free conditions for up to 28 days and the viability, tissue integrity, and the transcriptome was assessed in great detail. Even though viability of PCLS was well preserved during long-term cultivation, a continuous loss of cells was observed. Although the bronchial epithelium was well preserved throughout cultivation, the alveolar integrity was preserved for about 2 weeks, and the vasculatory system experienced significant loss of integrity within the first week. Furthermore, ciliary beat in the small airways gradually decreased after 1 week. Interestingly, keratinizing squamous metaplasia of the alveolar epithelium with significantly increasing manifestation were found over time. Transcriptome analysis revealed a significantly increased immune response and significantly decreased metabolic activity within the first 24 hours after PCLS generation. Overall, this study provides a comprehensive overview of histomorphologic and pathologic changes during long-term cultivation of PCLS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eike B Preuß
- Institute of Pathology, Lung Research Group, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany.
| | - Stephanie Schubert
- Institute of Pathology, Lung Research Group, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Christopher Werlein
- Institute of Pathology, Lung Research Group, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Helge Stark
- Institute of Pathology, Lung Research Group, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Peter Braubach
- Institute of Pathology, Lung Research Group, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Anne Höfer
- Institute of Pathology, Lung Research Group, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Edith K J Plucinski
- Institute of Pathology, Lung Research Group, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Harshit R Shah
- Institute of Pathology, Lung Research Group, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Robert Geffers
- Genome Analytics, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Katherina Sewald
- Fraunhofer Institute for Toxicology and Experimental Medicine, Hannover, Germany
| | - Armin Braun
- Fraunhofer Institute for Toxicology and Experimental Medicine, Hannover, Germany
| | - Danny D Jonigk
- Institute of Pathology, Lung Research Group, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Mark P Kühnel
- Institute of Pathology, Lung Research Group, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
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42
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Decaris ML, Schaub JR, Chen C, Cha J, Lee GG, Rexhepaj M, Ho SS, Rao V, Marlow MM, Kotak P, Budi EH, Hooi L, Wu J, Fridlib M, Martin SP, Huang S, Chen M, Muñoz M, Hom TF, Wolters PJ, Desai TJ, Rock F, Leftheris K, Morgans DJ, Lepist EI, Andre P, Lefebvre EA, Turner SM. Dual inhibition of α vβ 6 and α vβ 1 reduces fibrogenesis in lung tissue explants from patients with IPF. Respir Res 2021; 22:265. [PMID: 34666752 PMCID: PMC8524858 DOI: 10.1186/s12931-021-01863-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE αv integrins, key regulators of transforming growth factor-β activation and fibrogenesis in in vivo models of pulmonary fibrosis, are expressed on abnormal epithelial cells (αvβ6) and fibroblasts (αvβ1) in fibrotic lungs. OBJECTIVES We evaluated multiple αv integrin inhibition strategies to assess which most effectively reduced fibrogenesis in explanted lung tissue from patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. METHODS Selective αvβ6 and αvβ1, dual αvβ6/αvβ1, and multi-αv integrin inhibitors were characterized for potency, selectivity, and functional activity by ligand binding, cell adhesion, and transforming growth factor-β cell activation assays. Precision-cut lung slices generated from lung explants from patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis or bleomycin-challenged mouse lungs were treated with integrin inhibitors or standard-of-care drugs (nintedanib or pirfenidone) and analyzed for changes in fibrotic gene expression or TGF-β signaling. Bleomycin-challenged mice treated with dual αvβ6/αvβ1 integrin inhibitor, PLN-74809, were assessed for changes in pulmonary collagen deposition and Smad3 phosphorylation. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS Inhibition of integrins αvβ6 and αvβ1 was additive in reducing type I collagen gene expression in explanted lung tissue slices from patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. These data were replicated in fibrotic mouse lung tissue, with no added benefit observed from inhibition of additional αv integrins. Antifibrotic efficacy of dual αvβ6/αvβ1 integrin inhibitor PLN-74809 was confirmed in vivo, where dose-dependent inhibition of pulmonary Smad3 phosphorylation and collagen deposition was observed. PLN-74809 also, more potently, reduced collagen gene expression in fibrotic human and mouse lung slices than clinically relevant concentrations of nintedanib or pirfenidone. CONCLUSIONS In the fibrotic lung, dual inhibition of integrins αvβ6 and αvβ1 offers the optimal approach for blocking fibrogenesis resulting from integrin-mediated activation of transforming growth factor-β.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Chun Chen
- Pliant Therapeutics, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jacob Cha
- Pliant Therapeutics, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Gail G Lee
- Pliant Therapeutics, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | - Steve S Ho
- Pliant Therapeutics, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Vikram Rao
- Pliant Therapeutics, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | - Prerna Kotak
- Pliant Therapeutics, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Erine H Budi
- Pliant Therapeutics, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Lisa Hooi
- Pliant Therapeutics, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jianfeng Wu
- Pliant Therapeutics, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | | | - Shaoyi Huang
- Pliant Therapeutics, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Ming Chen
- Pliant Therapeutics, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Manuel Muñoz
- Pliant Therapeutics, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | - Paul J Wolters
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Tushar J Desai
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | | | | | - David J Morgans
- Pliant Therapeutics, South San Francisco, CA, USA
- Maze Therapeutics, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | - Patrick Andre
- Pliant Therapeutics, South San Francisco, CA, USA
- Acceleron Pharma, Cambridge, MA, USA
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43
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BAP1 and YY1 regulate expression of death receptors in malignant pleural mesothelioma. J Biol Chem 2021; 297:101223. [PMID: 34597666 PMCID: PMC8545693 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2021.101223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Revised: 09/06/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is a rare, aggressive, and incurable cancer arising from the mesothelial lining of the pleura, with few available treatment options. We recently reported that loss of function of the nuclear deubiquitinase BRCA1-associated protein 1 (BAP1), a frequent event in MPM, is associated with sensitivity to tumor necrosis factor–related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL)–mediated apoptosis. As a potential underlying mechanism, here we report that BAP1 negatively regulates the expression of TRAIL receptors: death receptor 4 (DR4) and death receptor 5 (DR5). Using tissue microarrays of tumor samples from MPM patients, we found a strong inverse correlation between BAP1 and TRAIL receptor expression. BAP1 knockdown increased DR4 and DR5 expression, whereas overexpression of BAP1 had the opposite effect. Reporter assays confirmed wt-BAP1, but not catalytically inactive BAP1 mutant, reduced promoter activities of DR4 and DR5, suggesting deubiquitinase activity is required for the regulation of gene expression. Co-immunoprecipitation studies demonstrated direct binding of BAP1 to the transcription factor Ying Yang 1 (YY1), and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays revealed BAP1 and YY1 to be enriched in the promoter regions of DR4 and DR5. Knockdown of YY1 also increased DR4 and DR5 expression and sensitivity to TRAIL. These results suggest that BAP1 and YY1 cooperatively repress transcription of TRAIL receptors. Our finding that BAP1 directly regulates the extrinsic apoptotic pathway will provide new insights into the role of BAP1 in the development of MPM and other cancers with frequent BAP1 mutations.
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Selo MA, Sake JA, Kim KJ, Ehrhardt C. In vitro and ex vivo models in inhalation biopharmaceutical research - advances, challenges and future perspectives. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2021; 177:113862. [PMID: 34256080 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.113862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Revised: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Oral inhalation results in pulmonary drug targeting and thereby reduces systemic side effects, making it the preferred means of drug delivery for the treatment of respiratory disorders such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or cystic fibrosis. In addition, the high alveolar surface area, relatively low enzymatic activity and rich blood supply of the distal airspaces offer a promising pathway to the systemic circulation. This is particularly advantageous when a rapid onset of pharmacological action is desired or when the drug is suffering from stability issues or poor biopharmaceutical performance following oral administration. Several cell and tissue-based in vitro and ex vivo models have been developed over the years, with the intention to realistically mimic pulmonary biological barriers. It is the aim of this review to critically discuss the available models regarding their advantages and limitations and to elaborate further which biopharmaceutical questions can and cannot be answered using the existing models.
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Lin SN, Mao R, Qian C, Bettenworth D, Wang J, Li J, Bruining D, Jairath V, Feagan B, Chen M, Rieder F. Development of Anti-fibrotic Therapy in Stricturing Crohn's Disease: Lessons from Randomized Trials in Other Fibrotic Diseases. Physiol Rev 2021; 102:605-652. [PMID: 34569264 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00005.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Intestinal fibrosis is considered an inevitable complication of Crohn's disease (CD) that results in symptoms of obstruction and stricture formation. Endoscopic or surgical treatment is required to treat the majority of patients. Progress in the management of stricturing CD is hampered by the lack of effective anti-fibrotic therapy; however, this situation is likely to change because of recent advances in other fibrotic diseases of the lung, liver and skin. In this review, we summarized data from randomized controlled trials (RCT) of anti-fibrotic therapies in these conditions. Multiple compounds have been tested for the anti-fibrotic effects in other organs. According to their mechanisms, they were categorized into growth factor modulators, inflammation modulators, 5-hydroxy-3-methylgultaryl-coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase inhibitors, intracellular enzymes and kinases, renin-angiotensin system (RAS) modulators and others. From our review of the results from the clinical trials and discussion of their implications in the gastrointestinal tract, we have identified several molecular candidates that could serve as potential therapies for intestinal fibrosis in CD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Si-Nan Lin
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Inflammation and Immunity, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, United States.,Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Digestive Disease Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, United States
| | - Ren Mao
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Inflammation and Immunity, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, United States.,Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Digestive Disease Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, United States
| | - Chenchen Qian
- Department of Internal Medicine, UPMC Pinnacle, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Dominik Bettenworth
- Department of Medicine B, Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Jie Wang
- Department of Inflammation and Immunity, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, United States.,Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Digestive Disease Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, United States.,Henan Key Laboratory of Immunology and Targeted Drug, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan Province, China
| | - Jiannan Li
- Department of Inflammation and Immunity, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, United States.,Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Digestive Disease Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, United States
| | - David Bruining
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota, United States
| | - Vipul Jairath
- Alimentiv Inc., London, ON, Canada.,Department of Medicine, Western University, London, ON, Canada.,Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Brian Feagan
- Alimentiv Inc., London, ON, Canada.,Department of Medicine, Western University, London, ON, Canada.,Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Minhu Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | | | - Florian Rieder
- Department of Inflammation and Immunity, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, United States.,Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Digestive Disease Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, United States
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Slack RJ, Macdonald SJF, Roper JA, Jenkins RG, Hatley RJD. Emerging therapeutic opportunities for integrin inhibitors. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2021; 21:60-78. [PMID: 34535788 PMCID: PMC8446727 DOI: 10.1038/s41573-021-00284-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 152] [Impact Index Per Article: 50.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Integrins are cell adhesion and signalling proteins crucial to a wide range of biological functions. Effective marketed treatments have successfully targeted integrins αIIbβ3, α4β7/α4β1 and αLβ2 for cardiovascular diseases, inflammatory bowel disease/multiple sclerosis and dry eye disease, respectively. Yet, clinical development of others, notably within the RGD-binding subfamily of αv integrins, including αvβ3, have faced significant challenges in the fields of cancer, ophthalmology and osteoporosis. New inhibitors of the related integrins αvβ6 and αvβ1 have recently come to the fore and are being investigated clinically for the treatment of fibrotic diseases, including idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. The design of integrin drugs may now be at a turning point, with opportunities to learn from previous clinical trials, to explore new modalities and to incorporate new findings in pharmacological and structural biology. This Review intertwines research from biological, clinical and medicinal chemistry disciplines to discuss historical and current RGD-binding integrin drug discovery, with an emphasis on small-molecule inhibitors of the αv integrins. Integrins are key signalling molecules that are present on the surface of subsets of cells and are therefore good potential therapeutic targets. In this Review, Hatley and colleagues discuss the development of integrin inhibitors, particularly the challenges in developing inhibitors for integrins that contain an αv-subunit, and suggest how these challenges could be addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - R G Jenkins
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, UK
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47
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Schuliga M, Read J, Knight DA. Ageing mechanisms that contribute to tissue remodeling in lung disease. Ageing Res Rev 2021; 70:101405. [PMID: 34242806 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2021.101405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Revised: 06/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Age is a major risk factor for chronic respiratory diseases such as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and certain phenotypes of asthma. The recent COVID-19 pandemic also highlights the increased susceptibility of the elderly to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), a diffuse inflammatory lung injury with often long-term effects (ie parenchymal fibrosis). Collectively, these lung conditions are characterized by a pathogenic reparative process that, rather than restoring organ function, contributes to structural and functional tissue decline. In the ageing lung, the homeostatic control of wound healing following challenge or injury has an increased likelihood of being perturbed, increasing susceptibility to disease. This loss of fidelity is a consequence of a diverse range of underlying ageing mechanisms including senescence, mitochondrial dysfunction, proteostatic stress and diminished autophagy that occur within the lung, as well as in other tissues, organs and systems of the body. These ageing pathways are highly interconnected, involving localized and systemic increases in inflammatory mediators and damage associated molecular patterns (DAMPs); along with corresponding changes in immune cell function, metabolism and composition of the pulmonary and gut microbiomes. Here we comprehensively review the roles of ageing mechanisms in the tissue remodeling of lung disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Schuliga
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia; Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia.
| | - Jane Read
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia; Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Darryl A Knight
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia; Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia; Providence Health Care Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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48
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Selvarajah B, Azuelos I, Anastasiou D, Chambers RC. Fibrometabolism-An emerging therapeutic frontier in pulmonary fibrosis. Sci Signal 2021; 14:14/697/eaay1027. [PMID: 34429381 DOI: 10.1126/scisignal.aay1027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Fibrosis is the final pathological outcome and major cause of morbidity and mortality in many common and chronic inflammatory, immune-mediated, and metabolic diseases. Despite the growing incidence of fibrotic diseases and extensive research efforts, there remains a lack of effective therapies that improve survival. The application of omics technologies has revolutionized our approach to identifying previously unknown therapeutic targets and potential disease biomarkers. The application of metabolomics, in particular, has improved our understanding of disease pathomechanisms and garnered a wave of scientific interest in the role of metabolism in the biology of myofibroblasts, the key effector cells of the fibrogenic response. Emerging evidence suggests that alterations in metabolism not only are a feature of but also may play an influential role in the pathogenesis of fibrosis, most notably in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), the most rapidly progressive and fatal of all fibrotic conditions. This review will detail the role of key metabolic pathways, their alterations in myofibroblasts, and the potential this new knowledge offers for the development of antifibrotic therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brintha Selvarajah
- Centre for Inflammation and Tissue Repair, UCL Respiratory, University College London, London WC1E 6JF, UK
| | - Ilan Azuelos
- Centre for Inflammation and Tissue Repair, UCL Respiratory, University College London, London WC1E 6JF, UK
| | | | - Rachel C Chambers
- Centre for Inflammation and Tissue Repair, UCL Respiratory, University College London, London WC1E 6JF, UK.
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49
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Shi W, Fang Y, Jiang Y, Jiang S, Li Y, Li W, Xu M, Aschner M, Liu G. Plumbagin attenuates traumatic tracheal stenosis in rats and inhibits lung fibroblast proliferation and differentiation via TGF-β1/Smad and Akt/mTOR pathways. Bioengineered 2021; 12:4475-4488. [PMID: 34304701 PMCID: PMC8806467 DOI: 10.1080/21655979.2021.1954580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Traumatic tracheal stenosis (TS) is a serious respiratory disease characterized by hyperplasia of airway granulation. Plumbagin (PLB) is a natural naphthoquinone component with anti-fibrotic properties. This research aimed to explore the roles of PLB in alleviating TS and the underlying mechanisms. For in vitro studies, lung fibroblasts (IMR-90 cells), with/without PLB treatment or TGF-β1 induction, were used. The viability and proliferation of IMR-90 cells were examined by CCK-8 and EdU incorporation assays. The differentiation of IMR-90 cells was assessed by detecting the mRNA and protein expression levels of collagen (COL)-1 and alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA). Besides, immunofluorescence assay was conducted to evaluate the localization of α-SMA in TGF-β1-induced IMR-90 cells. Moreover, the combination of PLB with/without TβRI (SB-431,542), PI3K/Akt (Ly294002) or mTOR (rapamycin) inhibitor was pretreated on IMR-90 cells after TGF-β1 induction. For in vivo studies, a rat model of TS was established. The pathological features and severity of TS were determined by hematoxylin and eosin staining. The protein levels of TGF-β1/Smad and Akt/mTOR pathways were detected for both in vitro and in vivo models. PLB effectively inhibited the proliferation and differentiation of TGF-β1-induced IMR-90 cells, and suppressed TGF-β1/Smad and Akt/mTOR signaling pathways both in vivo and in vitro. Furthermore, PLB reduced the degree of TS in rats. Taken together, our results indicate that PLB regulates lung fibroblast activity and attenuates TS in rats by inhibiting TGF-β1/Smad and Akt/mTOR signaling pathways. In conclusion, this study implies that PLB may serve as a promising therapeutic compound for TS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Shi
- Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine of The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China.,Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine of the Second People's Hospital of Nanning, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | | | | | - Siyang Jiang
- Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Yu Li
- Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine of The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Wentao Li
- Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Mingpeng Xu
- Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine of The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | | | - Guangnan Liu
- Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine of The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
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50
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Khan MM, Poeckel D, Halavatyi A, Zukowska-Kasprzyk J, Stein F, Vappiani J, Sevin DC, Tischer C, Zinn N, Eley JD, Gudmann NS, Muley T, Winter H, Fisher AJ, Nanthakumar CB, Bergamini G, Pepperkok R. An integrated multiomic and quantitative label-free microscopy-based approach to study pro-fibrotic signalling in ex vivo human precision-cut lung slices. Eur Respir J 2021; 58:13993003.00221-2020. [PMID: 33361096 PMCID: PMC8318569 DOI: 10.1183/13993003.00221-2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Fibrosis can affect any organ, resulting in the loss of tissue architecture and function with often life-threatening consequences. Pathologically, fibrosis is characterised by the expansion of connective tissue due to excessive deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins, including the fibrillar forms of collagen. A significant limitation for discovering cures for fibrosis is the availability of suitable human models and techniques to quantify mature fibrillar collagen deposition as close as possible to human physiological conditions. Here we have extensively characterised an ex vivo cultured human lung tissue-derived, precision-cut lung slices (hPCLS) model using label-free second harmonic generation (SHG) light microscopy to quantify fibrillar collagen deposition and mass spectrometry-based techniques to obtain a proteomic and metabolomic fingerprint of hPCLS in ex vivo culture. We demonstrate that hPCLS are viable and metabolically active, with mesenchymal, epithelial, endothelial and immune cell types surviving for at least 2 weeks in ex vivo culture. Analysis of hPCLS-conditioned supernatants showed a strong induction of pulmonary fibrosis-related ECM proteins upon transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) stimulation. This upregulation of ECM proteins was not translated into an increased deposition of fibrillar collagen. In support of this observation, we revealed the presence of a pro-ECM degradation activity in our ex vivo cultures of hPCLS, inhibition of which by a metalloproteinase inhibitor resulted in increased collagen deposition in response to TGF-β1 stimulation. Together the data show that an integrated approach of measuring soluble pro-fibrotic markers alongside quantitative SHG-based analysis of fibrillar collagen is a valuable tool for studying pro-fibrotic signalling and testing anti-fibrotic agents. Multiomic and label-free imaging-based characterisation of ex vivo cultured human precision-cut lung slices (hPCLS) reveals that MMP signalling is a rate-limiting factor necessary for deposition of fibrillar collagen in ECM of hPCLShttps://bit.ly/3rcUa0e
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Affiliation(s)
- Muzamil Majid Khan
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany.,Discovery Biology, Cellzome GmbH, GSK, Heidelberg, Germany.,Lung Research Center Heidelberg (TLRC), German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Daniel Poeckel
- Discovery Biology, Cellzome GmbH, GSK, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Aliaksandr Halavatyi
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany.,Lung Research Center Heidelberg (TLRC), German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | - Frank Stein
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | - Daniel C Sevin
- Discovery Biology, Cellzome GmbH, GSK, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | - Nico Zinn
- Discovery Biology, Cellzome GmbH, GSK, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | | | - Thomas Muley
- Lung Research Center Heidelberg (TLRC), German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Heidelberg, Germany.,Biobank Thoraxklinik, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Hauke Winter
- Lung Research Center Heidelberg (TLRC), German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Heidelberg, Germany.,Biobank Thoraxklinik, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Andrew J Fisher
- Newcastle University Translational and Clinical Research Institute and Institute of Transplantation, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | | | - Giovanna Bergamini
- Discovery Biology, Cellzome GmbH, GSK, Heidelberg, Germany.,G. Bergamini and R. Pepperkok contributed equally to this article as lead authors and supervised the work
| | - Rainer Pepperkok
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany .,Lung Research Center Heidelberg (TLRC), German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Heidelberg, Germany.,G. Bergamini and R. Pepperkok contributed equally to this article as lead authors and supervised the work
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