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Tao Y, Liu J, Li M, Wang H, Fan G, Xie X, Fu X, Su J. Abelmoschus manihot (L.) medik. seeds alleviate rheumatoid arthritis by modulating JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 325:117641. [PMID: 38151179 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.117641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Abelmoschus manihot (L.) Medik. Seeds (AMS, སོ་མ་ར་ཛ།), a Tibetan classical herbal in China, are rich in flavonoids and phenolic glycosides compounds, such as quercetin and its derivatives. Moreover, it has been found to possess anti-rheumatoid arthritis (RA) effects. Nonetheless, its anti-RA mechanism is yet unknown. AIM OF THE STUDY This research aimed to examine the active ingredients of AMS as well as potential pharmacological mechanisms in AMS on RA. MATERIALS AND METHODS The ultra-performance liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-tandem multistage mass spectrometry (UPLC-ESI-IT-MSn) technique was used to determine the primary chemical components of AMS that were responsible for the therapeutic effects on RA. In addition, 36 male Wistar rats weighing between 200 and 220 g were classified at random into six groups [normal control group, collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) group, methotrexate group (positive control, 1.05 mg/kg), AMS group (157.5 mg/kg, 315 mg/kg, 630 mg/kg)]. CIA rats were given AMS extract by intragastric administration for 28 days, and their ankles were photographed to observe the degree of swelling. Further, the arthritis score, paws swelling, and body weight changes of CIA rats were determined to observe whether AMS has any effect on RA, and synovial and cartilage tissue injuries were identified by histopathology. Besides, the levels of IL-10, TNF-α, IL-1β, INF-γ, etc. in serum were estimated by ELISA. Western blot experiments were implemented to identify the expression levels of protein involved in the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway in the CIA rats' synovial tissues. Moreover, the mechanisms and targets of active ingredient therapy of AMS for RA were predicted using network pharmacology and then verified using molecular docking. RESULT In the present study, 12 compounds were detected by UPLC-ESI-IT-MSn, such as quercetin and its derivative which could be potential active ingredients that contribute to the anti-RA properties of AMS. Our in vivo studies on CIA rats revealed that an AMS-H dose of 630 mg/kg significantly improved joint damage while decreasing the arthritic index and paw swelling. Furthermore, AMS inhibited the INF-γ, IL-6, IL-17, IL-1β, and TNF-α, levels while upregulating the expression of anti-inflammatory cytokines IL-10 and IL-4 in serum. Besides, AMS inhibited the protein Bcl-2/Bax, STAT3, and JAK2 levels, and promoted the expression of Caspase3, SOCS1, and SOCS3 in the JAK2/STAT3 pathway. Additionally, the JAK/STAT signaling pathway was found to perform a remarkable function in the AMS therapy of RA as evidenced by enrichment in GO terms and KEGG pathways. Meanwhile, data from molecular docking experiments indicated that the core targets of PIK3CA, JAK2, and SRC bound stably to the active ingredients of mimuone, 4'-methoxy-bavachromanol, and quercetin. CONCLUSION According to these findings, the AMS could improve joint inflammation in CIA rats, and its underlying mechanism could be linked to the regulation of the JAK2/STAT3 pathway. Therefore, AMS might become a promising agent for alleviating inflammation in RA patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiwen Tao
- School of Ethnic Medicine and Meishan Hospital, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Jia Liu
- School of Ethnic Medicine and Meishan Hospital, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Mengjia Li
- School of Ethnic Medicine and Meishan Hospital, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Hongling Wang
- Pingshan County Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Yibin, Sichuan, China
| | - Gang Fan
- School of Ethnic Medicine and Meishan Hospital, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Xiaolong Xie
- School of Ethnic Medicine and Meishan Hospital, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.
| | - Xing Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Innovative Institute of Chinese Medicine and Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.
| | - Jinsong Su
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Innovative Institute of Chinese Medicine and Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.
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Zhang J, Wang D, Hu X. Estragole Ameliorates CFA Induced Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms in Wistar Rats by Inhibiting JAK-2/STAT-3 Pathway. Physiol Res 2024; 73:81-90. [PMID: 38466007 PMCID: PMC11019617 DOI: 10.33549/physiolres.935204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The present study was conducted to scrutinize the pharmacological effect of Estragole (ESG) against CFA-induced arthritis in rats. The rats underwent induction of arthritis using the administration of CFA and after that, the rats were randomly divided into five different groups, where three groups correspond to diverse dosages of ESG, and the other two were control and CFA-arthritic control. Results of the study suggested that ESG in a dose-dependent manner, improves body weight and arthritis score of rats as evidenced by reduction of hind-paw volume. ESG also improved the antioxidant status of rats by reducing MDA levels and enhancing the concentration of endogenous antioxidants SOD and GPx. The level of pro-inflammatory cytokines was also found to be reduced in the case of ESG treated group as compared to CFA-group. In a western blot analysis, ESH showed downregulation of p-JAK-2/STAT-3. The study provided concrete evidence for the protective effect of ESG against rheumatoid arthritis in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Zhangzhou Municipal Hospital Affiliated to Fujian Medical University, Zhangzhou, Fujian, China; Department of Orthopaedics, Jinling Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
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Gan P, Wu H, Zhu Y, Shu Y, Wei Y. A new look at angiogenesis inhibition of geniposide in experimental arthritis by blocking angiopoietin-2 exocytosis. Phytother Res 2024; 38:1245-1261. [PMID: 38185885 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.8094] [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: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
Angiogenesis is a key player in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis. Exocytosis from Weibel-Palade bodies is a prerequisite for angiopoietin-2 (Ang-2) to activate endothelial cells and initiate angiogenesis. Geniposide (GE) was previously reported to exert anti-angiogenic effects. The aim of this study was to shed light on whether and how GE regulates Ang-2 exocytosis. A rat model of adjuvant arthritis (AA) was established to evaluate the therapeutic effect of GE (60 and 120 mg/kg) especially in synovial angiogenesis. In addition, the Matrigel plug assay was used to detect the effect of GE (120 and 240 mg/kg) on angiogenesis in AA mice. In vitro, sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P)-stimulated human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were used to investigate the effect and mechanism of GE on Ang-2 exocytosis. It was found that GE improved the symptoms of AA rats and inhibited angiogenesis in AA, which may be related to the down-regulation of S1P receptors 1, 3 (S1PR1, S1PR3), phospholipase Cβ3 (PLCβ3), inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (IP3 R) and Ang-2 expression. The results of in vitro experiments showed that S1P induced rapid release of Ang-2 from HUVECs with multigranular exocytosis. Suppression of the S1P/S1PR1/3/PLCβ3/Ca2+ signal axis by the S1PR1/3 inhibitor VPC23019 and the IP3 R inhibitor 2-APB blocked Ang-2 exocytosis, accompanied by diminished angiogenesis in vitro. GE dose-dependently weakened S1P/S1PR1/3/PLCβ3/Ca2+ signal axis activation, Ang-2 exocytosis and angiogenesis in HUVECs (p < 0.05, p < 0.01). Overall, these findings revealed that angiogenesis inhibition of GE was partly attributed to the intervention of Ang-2 exocytosis through negatively modulating the S1P/S1PR1/3/PLCβ3/Ca2+ signal axis, providing a novel strategy for rheumatoid arthritis anti-angiogenic therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peirong Gan
- College of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
- Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine, Ministry of Education, Hefei, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Research & Development of Chinese Medicine, Science and Technology Department of Anhui Province, Hefei, China
| | - Hong Wu
- College of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
- Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine, Ministry of Education, Hefei, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Research & Development of Chinese Medicine, Science and Technology Department of Anhui Province, Hefei, China
| | - Yulong Zhu
- College of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
- Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine, Ministry of Education, Hefei, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Research & Development of Chinese Medicine, Science and Technology Department of Anhui Province, Hefei, China
| | - Yin Shu
- College of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
- Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine, Ministry of Education, Hefei, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Research & Development of Chinese Medicine, Science and Technology Department of Anhui Province, Hefei, China
| | - Yi Wei
- College of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
- Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine, Ministry of Education, Hefei, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Research & Development of Chinese Medicine, Science and Technology Department of Anhui Province, Hefei, China
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Eliesen GA, Fransen M, van Hove H, van den Broek PH, Greupink R. Placental transfer of tofacitinib in the ex vivo dual-side human placenta perfusion model. Curr Res Toxicol 2024; 6:100149. [PMID: 38292667 PMCID: PMC10825226 DOI: 10.1016/j.crtox.2024.100149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Tofacitinib is a small molecule Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor, introduced to the European market in 2017, for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis and ulcerative colitis. In the treatment of women with autoimmune diseases, pregnancy is a relevant issue, as such diseases typically affect women in their reproductive years. Currently, there is limited data on the use of tofacitinib during pregnancy. To estimate the extent of placental transfer in the absence of clinical data, we conducted ex vivo dual-side perfused human placental cotyledon perfusions. Term placentas were perfused for 180 min with tofacitinib (100 nM, added to the maternal circuit) in a closed-closed configuration. At the end of the perfusions, drug concentrations in the maternal and fetal reservoirs were near equilibrium, at 35.6 ± 5.5 and 24.8 ± 4.7 nM, respectively. Transfer of tofacitinib was similar to that observed for the passive diffusion marker antipyrine (100 µg/mL, added to the maternal reservoir). Final antipyrine maternal and fetal concentrations amounted to 36.9 ± 3.0 and 36.7 ± 1.3 µg/mL, respectively. In conclusion, in the ex vivo perfused placenta tofacitinib traverses the placental barrier rapidly and extensively. This suggests that substantial fetal tofacitinib exposure will take place after maternal drug dosing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaby A.M. Eliesen
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
- Centre for Safety of Substances and Products, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, the Netherlands
| | - Milou Fransen
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Hedwig van Hove
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Petra H.H. van den Broek
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Rick Greupink
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
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Di Muzio C, Di Cola I, Shariat Panahi A, Ursini F, Iagnocco A, Giacomelli R, Cipriani P, Ruscitti P. The effects of suppressing inflammation by tofacitinib may simultaneously improve glycaemic parameters and inflammatory markers in rheumatoid arthritis patients with comorbid type 2 diabetes: a proof-of-concept, open, prospective, clinical study. Arthritis Res Ther 2024; 26:14. [PMID: 38178250 PMCID: PMC10765862 DOI: 10.1186/s13075-023-03249-7] [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: 11/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A consistent connection has been increasingly reported between rheumatoid arthritis (RA), insulin resistance (IR), and type 2 diabetes (T2D). The β-cell apoptosis induced by pro-inflammatory cytokines, which could be exaggerated in the context of RA, is associated with increased expression pro-apoptotic proteins, which is dependent on JAnus Kinase/Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription (JAK/STAT) activation. On these bases, we aimed to evaluate if the administration of tofacitinib, a potent and selective JAK inhibitor, could simultaneously improve glycaemic parameters and inflammatory markers in patients with RA and comorbid T2D. METHODS The primary endpoint was the change in the 1998-updated homeostatic model assessment of IR (HOMA2-IR) after 6 months of treatment with tofacitinib in RA patients with T2D. Consecutive RA patients with T2D diagnosis were included in this proof-of-concept, open, prospective, clinical study, which was planned before the recent emergence of safety signals about tofacitinib. Additional endpoints were also assessed regarding RA disease activity and metabolic parameters. RESULTS Forty consecutive RA patients with T2D were included (female sex 68.9%, mean age of 63.4 ± 9.9 years). During 6-month follow-up, a progressive reduction of HOMA2-IR was observed in RA patients with T2D treated with tofacitinib. Specifically, a significant effect of tofacitinib was shown on the overall reduction of HOMA2-IR (β = - 1.1, p = 0.019, 95%CI - 1.5 to - 0.76). Also, HOMA2-β enhanced in these patients highlighting an improvement of insulin sensitivity. Furthermore, although a longer follow-up is required, a trend in glycated haemoglobin reduction was also recorded. The administration of tofacitinib induced an improvement in RA disease activity, and a significant reduction of DAS28-CRP and SDAI was observed; 76.8% of patients achieved a good clinical response. In this study, no major adverse events (AEs) were retrieved without the identification of new safety signals. Specifically, no life-threatening AEs and cardiovascular and/or thromboembolic events were recorded. CONCLUSIONS The administration of tofacitinib in RA with T2D led to a simultaneous improvement of IR and inflammatory disease activity, inducing a "bidirectional" benefit in these patients. However, further specific designed and powered studies are warranted to entirely evaluate the metabolic effects of tofacitinib in RA patients with T2D.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Di Muzio
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Delta 6 Building, PO box 67100, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Ilenia Di Cola
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Delta 6 Building, PO box 67100, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Azadeh Shariat Panahi
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Delta 6 Building, PO box 67100, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Francesco Ursini
- Medicine and Rheumatology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Bologna, Italy
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences (DIBINEM), Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Annamaria Iagnocco
- Academic Rheumatology Centre, Dipartimento di Scienze Cliniche e Biologiche Università di Torino - AO Mauriziano di Torino, Turin, Italy
| | - Roberto Giacomelli
- Clinical and Research Section of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Fondazione Policlinico Campus Bio-Medico, Via Álvaro del Portillo 200, 00128, Rome, Italy
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Department of Medicine, University of Rome "Campus Biomedico", School of Medicine, Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Cipriani
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Delta 6 Building, PO box 67100, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Piero Ruscitti
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Delta 6 Building, PO box 67100, L'Aquila, Italy.
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Kim HJ, Kim SY, Bae HJ, Choi YY, An JY, Cho YE, Cho SY, Lee SJ, Lee S, Sin M, Yun YM, Lee JR, Park SJ. Anti-Inflammatory Effects of the LK5 Herbal Complex on LPS- and IL-4/IL-13-Stimulated HaCaT Cells and a DNCB-Induced Animal Model of Atopic Dermatitis in BALB/c Mice. Pharmaceutics 2023; 16:40. [PMID: 38258052 PMCID: PMC10821371 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16010040] [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: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease influenced by a complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors. The activation of the JAK-STAT pathway increases the expression of inflammatory cytokines such as IL-4 and IL-13, further deteriorating AD. Therefore, for the treatment of AD, the JAK-STAT pathway is emerging as a significant target, alongside inflammatory cytokines. This study investigates the potential therapeutic effects of a novel herbal complex, LK5, composed of Scutellaria baicalensis, Liriope platyphylla, Sophora flavescens, Dictammus dasycarpus, and Phellodendron schneider, known for their anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating properties. We examined the anti-inflammatory and anti-AD effects of the LK5 herbal complex in HaCaT cells stimulated by LPS and IL-4/IL-13, as well as in a mouse model of AD induced by DNCB. In HaCaT cells stimulated with LPS or IL-4/IL-13, the LK5 herbal complex demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting the expression of inflammatory cytokines including TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β, and downregulating the phosphorylation of STAT proteins. In a murine AD-like model induced by DNCB, administration of the LK5 herbal complex significantly ameliorated clinical symptoms, including dermatitis, ear thickness, and TEWL. Histological analysis revealed a reduction in epidermal thickness and mast cell infiltration. The LK5 herbal complex also inhibited pruritus induced by compound 48/80. Furthermore, the LK5 herbal complex treatment significantly decreased the levels of inflammatory cytokines such as TSLP, IL-6, and IgE in plasma and ear tissue of AD-induced mice. These findings suggest that the LK5 herbal complex may modulate the immune response and alleviate AD symptoms by inhibiting STAT pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun-Jeong Kim
- Department of Food Biotechnology and Environmental Science, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea; (H.-J.K.); (Y.-Y.C.); (J.-Y.A.); (Y.E.C.); (S.-Y.C.); (S.-J.L.)
| | - So-Yeon Kim
- Department of Food Biotechnology and Environmental Science, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea; (H.-J.K.); (Y.-Y.C.); (J.-Y.A.); (Y.E.C.); (S.-Y.C.); (S.-J.L.)
| | - Ho Jung Bae
- Agriculture and Life Science Research Institute, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea;
| | - Yu-Yeong Choi
- Department of Food Biotechnology and Environmental Science, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea; (H.-J.K.); (Y.-Y.C.); (J.-Y.A.); (Y.E.C.); (S.-Y.C.); (S.-J.L.)
| | - Ju-Yeon An
- Department of Food Biotechnology and Environmental Science, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea; (H.-J.K.); (Y.-Y.C.); (J.-Y.A.); (Y.E.C.); (S.-Y.C.); (S.-J.L.)
| | - Ye Eun Cho
- Department of Food Biotechnology and Environmental Science, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea; (H.-J.K.); (Y.-Y.C.); (J.-Y.A.); (Y.E.C.); (S.-Y.C.); (S.-J.L.)
| | - So-Young Cho
- Department of Food Biotechnology and Environmental Science, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea; (H.-J.K.); (Y.-Y.C.); (J.-Y.A.); (Y.E.C.); (S.-Y.C.); (S.-J.L.)
| | - Su-Jung Lee
- Department of Food Biotechnology and Environmental Science, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea; (H.-J.K.); (Y.-Y.C.); (J.-Y.A.); (Y.E.C.); (S.-Y.C.); (S.-J.L.)
| | - Sanghyun Lee
- Department of Plant Science and Technology, Chung-Ang University, Anseong 17546, Republic of Korea;
| | - MinSub Sin
- LK Co., Ltd., Hwaseong 18469, Republic of Korea; (M.S.); (Y.M.Y.); (J.R.L.)
| | - Young Min Yun
- LK Co., Ltd., Hwaseong 18469, Republic of Korea; (M.S.); (Y.M.Y.); (J.R.L.)
| | - Jong Ryul Lee
- LK Co., Ltd., Hwaseong 18469, Republic of Korea; (M.S.); (Y.M.Y.); (J.R.L.)
| | - Se Jin Park
- Department of Food Biotechnology and Environmental Science, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea; (H.-J.K.); (Y.-Y.C.); (J.-Y.A.); (Y.E.C.); (S.-Y.C.); (S.-J.L.)
- Agriculture and Life Science Research Institute, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea;
- School of Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea
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Kerekes G, Czókolyová M, Hamar A, Pusztai A, Tajti G, Katkó M, Végh E, Pethő Z, Bodnár N, Horváth Á, Soós B, Szamosi S, Hascsi Z, Harangi M, Hodosi K, Panyi G, Seres T, Szűcs G, Szekanecz Z. Effects of 1-year tofacitinib therapy on angiogenic biomarkers in rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2023; 62:SI304-SI312. [PMID: 37871914 PMCID: PMC10593522 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/kead502] [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: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Cardiovascular (CV) morbidity and mortality, and perpetuated synovial angiogenesis have been associated with RA. In our study we evaluated angiogenic factors in relation to vascular inflammation and function, and clinical markers in RA patients undergoing 1-year tofacitinib therapy. METHODS Thirty RA patients treated with either 5 mg or 10 mg twice daily tofacitinib were included in a 12-month follow-up study. Eventually, 26 patients completed the study and were included in data analysis. Levels of various angiogenic cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6), growth factors [VEGF, basic fibroblast (bFGF), epidermal (EGF), placental (PlGF)], cathepsin K (CathK), CXC chemokine ligand 8 (CXCL8), galectin-3 (Gal-3) and N-terminal prohormone brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) were determined at baseline, and at 6 and 12 months after initiating tofacitinib treatment. In order to assess flow-mediated vasodilation, common carotid intima-media thickness (ccIMT) and carotid-femoral pulse-wave velocity, ultrasonography was performed. Synovial and aortic inflammation was also assessed by 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose-PET/CT. RESULTS One-year tofacitinib therapy significantly decreased IL-6, VEGF, bFGF, EGF, PlGF and CathK, while it increased Gal-3 production (P < 0.05). bFGF, PlGF and NT-proBNP levels were higher, while platelet-endothelial cell adhesion molecule 1 (PECAM-1) levels were lower in RF-seropositive patients (P < 0.05). TNF-α, bFGF and PlGF correlated with post-treatment synovial inflammation, while aortic inflammation was rather dependent on IL-6 and PECAM-1 as determined by PET/CT (P < 0.05). In the correlation analyses, NT-proBNP, CXCL8 and Cath variables correlated with ccIMT (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Decreasing production of bFGF, PlGF or IL-6 by 1-year tofacitinib therapy potentially inhibits synovial and aortic inflammation. Although NT-proBNP, CXCL8 and CathK were associated with ccIMT, their role in RA-associated atherosclerosis needs to be further evaluated.
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Affiliation(s)
- György Kerekes
- Intensive Care Unit, Department of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Monika Czókolyová
- Department of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Attila Hamar
- Department of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Anita Pusztai
- Department of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Gábor Tajti
- Department of Biophysics and Cell Biology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Mónika Katkó
- Division of Metabolic Diseases, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Edit Végh
- Department of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Zsófia Pethő
- Department of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Nóra Bodnár
- Department of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Ágnes Horváth
- Department of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Boglárka Soós
- Department of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Szilvia Szamosi
- Department of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | | | - Mariann Harangi
- Division of Metabolic Diseases, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Katalin Hodosi
- Department of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - György Panyi
- Department of Biophysics and Cell Biology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Tamás Seres
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Gabriella Szűcs
- Department of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Zoltán Szekanecz
- Department of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
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Xie J, Li Z, Jiang Y, Tang D, Qiu X, Jia E, Zhang J. Baricitinib treatment for refractory skin changes in POEMS syndrome: a case report. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1191158. [PMID: 37767406 PMCID: PMC10520952 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1191158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Polyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy, monoclonal plasma cell disorder, and skin changes (POEMS) syndrome is a multisystem disorder that has limited treatment options. Here, we described a case of a 55-year-old female subject who was treated for multiple drugs, but the skin symptoms continued to progress; the patient responded well to baricitinib. This suggests that JAK/STAT signaling pathways play an essential role in the pathological process of POEMS syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Xie
- The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
- The Department of Rheumatology, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhiling Li
- The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Yubao Jiang
- The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
- The Department of Rheumatology, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Dabin Tang
- The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
- The Department of Rheumatology, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Xia Qiu
- The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
- The Department of Rheumatology, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Ertao Jia
- The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
- The Department of Rheumatology, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Jianyong Zhang
- The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
- The Department of Rheumatology, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
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9
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Jiang X, Chen P, Niu W, Fang R, Chen H, An Y, Wang W, Jiang C, Ye J. Preparation and evaluation of dissolving tofacitinib microneedles for effective management of rheumatoid arthritis. Eur J Pharm Sci 2023; 188:106518. [PMID: 37419290 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejps.2023.106518] [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: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023]
Abstract
Dissolving microneedles have become a focal point in transdermal drug delivery. They have the advantages of painless, rapid drug delivery and high drug utilization. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of Tofacitinib citrate microneedles in arthritis treatment, assess the dose-effect relationship, and determine the cumulative penetration during percutaneous injection. In this study, block copolymer was utilized to prepare the dissolving microneedles. The microneedles were characterized through skin permeation tests, dissolution tests, treatment effect evaluations, and Western blot experiments. In vivo dissolution experiments revealed that the soluble microneedles completely dissolved within 2.5 min, while in vitro skin permeation experiments demonstrated the highest unit area of skin permeation of the microneedles reached 2118.13 mg/cm2. The inhibition of Tofacitinib microneedle on joint swelling in rats with Rheumatoid arthritis was better than Ketoprofen and close to that of oral Tofacitinib. Western-blot experiment comfirmed the Tofacitinib microneedle's inhibitory effect on the JAK-STAT3 pathway in rats with Rheumatoid arthritis. In conclusion, Tofacitinib microneedles effectively inhibited arthritis in rats, demonstrating potential for Rheumatoid arthritis treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiumei Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Drug Research of Zhejiang Province, Institute of Materia Medica, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, 310013, China
| | - Pu Chen
- Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Drug Research of Zhejiang Province, Institute of Materia Medica, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, 310013, China
| | - Wenxin Niu
- Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Drug Research of Zhejiang Province, Institute of Materia Medica, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, 310013, China
| | - Renhua Fang
- Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Drug Research of Zhejiang Province, Institute of Materia Medica, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, 310013, China
| | - Hang Chen
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Green Pharmaceuticals, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Yue An
- Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Drug Research of Zhejiang Province, Institute of Materia Medica, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, 310013, China
| | - Weiqing Wang
- Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Drug Research of Zhejiang Province, Institute of Materia Medica, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, 310013, China
| | - Changzhao Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Drug Research of Zhejiang Province, Institute of Materia Medica, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, 310013, China.
| | - Jincui Ye
- Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Drug Research of Zhejiang Province, Institute of Materia Medica, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, 310013, China.
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10
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Tong Y, Li X, Deng Q, Shi J, Feng Y, Bai L. Advances of the small molecule drugs regulating fibroblast-like synovial proliferation for rheumatoid arthritis. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1230293. [PMID: 37547337 PMCID: PMC10400780 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1230293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a type of chronic autoimmune and inflammatory disease. In the pathological process of RA, the alteration of fibroblast-like synoviocyte (FLS) and its related factors is the main influence in the clinic and fundamental research. In RA, FLS exhibits a uniquely aggressive phenotype, leading to synovial hyperplasia, destruction of the cartilage and bone, and a pro-inflammatory environment in the synovial tissue for perpetuation and progression. Evidently, it is a highly promising way to target the pathological function of FLS for new anti-RA drugs. Based on this, we summed up the pathological mechanism of RA-FLS and reviewed the recent progress of small molecule drugs, including the synthetic small molecule compounds and natural products targeting RA-FLS. In the end, there were some views for further action. Compared with MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathways, the JAK/STAT signaling pathway has great potential for research as targets. A small number of synthetic small molecule compounds have entered the clinic to treat RA and are often used in combination with other drugs. Meanwhile, most natural products are currently in the experimental stage, not the clinical trial stage, such as triptolide. There is an urgent need to unremittingly develop new agents for RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yitong Tong
- Chengdu Second People’s Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Xinyu Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences and Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Qichuan Deng
- Department of Pharmacy, Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences and Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Jianyou Shi
- Department of Pharmacy, Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences and Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yibin Feng
- School of Chinese Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Lan Bai
- Department of Pharmacy, Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences and Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
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11
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Di Muzio C, Ursini F, Iagnocco A, Cipriani P, Giacomelli R, Ruscitti P. Tofacitinib may improve insulin resistance in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes, implications for disease management and precision medicine approach. Autoimmun Rev 2023:103373. [PMID: 37301274 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2023.103373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 05/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Di Muzio
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Francesco Ursini
- Medicine and Rheumatology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Bologna, Italy; Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences (DIBINEM), Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Annamaria Iagnocco
- Academic Rheumatology Centre, Ospedale Mauriziano - Dipartimento Scienze Cliniche e Biologiche, Università degli Studi di Torino, Turin, Italy
| | - Paola Cipriani
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Roberto Giacomelli
- Clinical and Research Section of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Fondazione Policlinico Campus Bio-Medico, Via Álvaro del Portillo 200, 00128 Rome, Italy; Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Department of Medicine, University of Rome "Campus Biomedico", School of Medicine, Rome, Italy
| | - Piero Ruscitti
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy.
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12
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Chen Q, Chen Z, Li F, Zha H, He W, Jiang F, Wei J, Xu J, Li R, Cai L, Liu X. Discovery of highly potent and selective VEGFR2 kinase inhibitors for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 257:115456. [PMID: 37216810 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Synovial angiogenesis is essential for the development of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Human vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 tyrosine kinase (VEGFR2) is a direct target gene that is notably elevated in RA synovium. Herein, we report the identification of indazole derivatives as a novel class of potent VEGFR2 inhibitors. The most potent compound, compound 25, displayed single-digit nanomolar potency against VEGFR2 in biochemical assays and achieved good selectivity for other protein kinases in the kinome. In addition, compound 25 dose-dependently inhibited the phosphorylation of VEGFR2 in Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells (HUVECs) and showed an anti-angiogenic effect, as evidenced by the inhibition of capillary-like tube formation in vitro. Moreover, compound 25 reduced the severity and development of adjuvant-induced arthritis in rats by inhibiting synovial VEGFR2 phosphorylation and angiogenesis. Overall, these findings provide evidence that compound 25 is a leading potential drug candidate for anti-arthritic and anti-angiogenic therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingling Chen
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, Anhui Province, PR China
| | - Zhuoying Chen
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, Anhui Province, PR China
| | - Feilong Li
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, Anhui Province, PR China
| | - Haoyu Zha
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, Anhui Province, PR China
| | - Wei He
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, Anhui Province, PR China
| | - Fei Jiang
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, Anhui Province, PR China
| | - Jiamu Wei
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, Anhui Province, PR China
| | - Jiajia Xu
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, Anhui Province, PR China
| | - Rong Li
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, Anhui Province, PR China; Institute of Health and Medicine, Hefei Comprehensive National Science Center, Hefei, 230026, Anhui Province, PR China.
| | - Li Cai
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, Anhui Province, PR China; Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, Anhui Province, PR China.
| | - Xuesong Liu
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, Anhui Province, PR China.
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13
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Szegvari G, Dora D, Lohinai Z. Effective Reversal of Macrophage Polarization by Inhibitory Combinations Predicted by a Boolean Protein–Protein Interaction Model. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:biology12030376. [PMID: 36979068 PMCID: PMC10045914 DOI: 10.3390/biology12030376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2023]
Abstract
Background: The function and polarization of macrophages has a significant impact on the outcome of many diseases. Targeting tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) is among the greatest challenges to solve because of the low in vitro reproducibility of the heterogeneous tumor microenvironment (TME). To create a more comprehensive model and to understand the inner workings of the macrophage and its dependence on extracellular signals driving polarization, we propose an in silico approach. Methods: A Boolean control network was built based on systematic manual curation of the scientific literature to model the early response events of macrophages by connecting extracellular signals (input) with gene transcription (output). The network consists of 106 nodes, classified as 9 input, 75 inner and 22 output nodes, that are connected by 217 edges. The direction and polarity of edges were manually verified and only included in the model if the literature plainly supported these parameters. Single or combinatory inhibitions were simulated mimicking therapeutic interventions, and output patterns were analyzed to interpret changes in polarization and cell function. Results: We show that inhibiting a single target is inadequate to modify an established polarization, and that in combination therapy, inhibiting numerous targets with individually small effects is frequently required. Our findings show the importance of JAK1, JAK3 and STAT6, and to a lesser extent STK4, Sp1 and Tyk2, in establishing an M1-like pro-inflammatory polarization, and NFAT5 in creating an anti-inflammatory M2-like phenotype. Conclusions: Here, we demonstrate a protein–protein interaction (PPI) network modeling the intracellular signalization driving macrophage polarization, offering the possibility of therapeutic repolarization and demonstrating evidence for multi-target methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabor Szegvari
- Translational Medicine Institute, Semmelweis University, 1094 Budapest, Hungary
| | - David Dora
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Semmelweis University, 1094 Budapest, Hungary
- Correspondence: (D.D.); (Z.L.); Tel.: +36-1-2156920 (D.D.)
| | - Zoltan Lohinai
- Translational Medicine Institute, Semmelweis University, 1094 Budapest, Hungary
- Pulmonary Hospital Torokbalint, 2045 Torokbalint, Hungary
- Correspondence: (D.D.); (Z.L.); Tel.: +36-1-2156920 (D.D.)
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14
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George G, Shyni GL, Mohan S, Abraham B, Nisha P, Ranjith S, Rajankutty K, Raghu KG. In vitro and in vivo anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic effect of Tinospora cordifolia via modulation of JAK/STAT pathway. Inflammopharmacology 2023; 31:1009-1025. [PMID: 36840884 DOI: 10.1007/s10787-023-01155-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disorder causing cartilage and joint degeneration. In spite of the availability of several robust drugs like biologics, most of the patients are unresponsive, and reports of severe adverse effects following long-term use are also there. Subsequently the use of natural plant-based products in RA therapy is broadening over the years. Tinospora cordifolia is a widely used medicinal plant in Ayurveda against various inflammatory disorders including RA. However, there is very limited knowledge regarding the actual molecular events responsible for its therapeutic effect, and this has limited its acceptance among the professionals. PURPOSE To explore the anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic effect of hydro-alcoholic extract from Tinospora cordifolia. METHODS The rich polyphenol nature of the extract was elucidated using HPLC. LPS-stimulated murine macrophage cell line RAW 264.7 was used for in vitro studies, and collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) model was used for in vivo studies. RESULTS The polyphenols in TCE were identified using HPLC. TCE effectively downregulated the level of pro-inflammatory mediators (IL-6, TNF-α, PGE2, and NO) in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. Subsequently the upregulated expression of COX-2 and iNOS following LPS stimulation were also downregulated by TCE. Furthermore, TCE targeted the upstream kinases of the JAK/STAT pathway, a crucial inflammatory pathway. The expression of VEGF, a key angiogenic factor as well as an inflammatory mediator was also decreased following pre-treatment with TCE. The anti-arthritic effect of TCE (150 mg/kg) was evaluated in the CIA model as well. From the results of histopathology, oral administration of TCE was found to be effective in reducing the clinical symptoms of arthritis including paw edema, erythema, and hyperplasia. In vivo results validated the in vitro results and there was a significant reduction in serum level of pro-inflammatory cytokines and mediators (IL-6, TNF-α, IL-17, NO, and PGE2). The phosphorylation of STAT3 and the expression of VEGF were also downregulated following TCE treatment. CONCLUSION Our study provided a detailed insight into the molecular events associated with anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic effect of Tinospora cordifolia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Genu George
- Biochemistry and Molecular Mechanism Laboratory, Agroprocessing and Technology Division, CSIR-National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, 695019, India
| | - G L Shyni
- Biochemistry and Molecular Mechanism Laboratory, Agroprocessing and Technology Division, CSIR-National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, 695019, India
| | - Sreelekshmi Mohan
- Biochemistry and Molecular Mechanism Laboratory, Agroprocessing and Technology Division, CSIR-National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, 695019, India.,Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - Billu Abraham
- Biochemistry and Molecular Mechanism Laboratory, Agroprocessing and Technology Division, CSIR-National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, 695019, India.,Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - P Nisha
- Biochemistry and Molecular Mechanism Laboratory, Agroprocessing and Technology Division, CSIR-National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, 695019, India.,Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - S Ranjith
- Jubilee Centre for Medical Research (JCMR), Jubilee Mission Medical College and Research Institute, Thrissur, Kerala, 680005, India
| | - K Rajankutty
- Jubilee Centre for Medical Research (JCMR), Jubilee Mission Medical College and Research Institute, Thrissur, Kerala, 680005, India
| | - K G Raghu
- Biochemistry and Molecular Mechanism Laboratory, Agroprocessing and Technology Division, CSIR-National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, 695019, India. .,Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India.
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15
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Comparison of the effects of peficitinib and tofacitinib in the adjuvant-induced arthritis rat model. Eur J Pharmacol 2023; 941:175490. [PMID: 36608862 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2023.175490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
We investigated and compared the pharmacologic properties of two Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors, peficitinib and tofacitinib, in an adjuvant-induced arthritis rat model. Repeated administration of peficitinib (3 - 30 mg/kg) or tofacitinib (1 - 10 mg/kg) exhibited a dose-related and significant attenuation of arthritis score, paw swelling, pain threshold, grip strength and histopathologic injuries in the model; peficitinib 10 mg/kg and tofacitinib 3 mg/kg demonstrated comparable efficacy. Equivalent Cmax and AUC0-12h values were observed with peficitinib 10 mg/kg and tofacitinib 3 mg/kg, suggesting that the two drugs may demonstrate comparable efficacy on arthritis-associated symptoms at comparable plasma concentration levels. However, peficitinib 10 mg/kg had greater efficacy than tofacitinib 3 mg/kg on some inflammation- and bone destruction-associated parameters in the paw fluid, including the production of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand, and matrix metalloproteinase-3, which are associated with arthritis exacerbation. Peficitinib 10 mg/kg also showed significantly greater inhibitory effects than tofacitinib 3 mg/kg on loss of bone mineral density and synovial thickening score, which might be a result of the VEGF and PDGF receptor kinase inhibitory effects of peficitinib, in addition to JAK inhibition. In conclusion, both tofacitinib and peficitinib potently improved arthritis and associated symptoms in adjuvant-induced arthritis rats; moreover, owing to possible differences in the mechanism of action of the two drugs, peficitinib may have exerted its effects through JAK inhibition and additional unique off-target properties.
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16
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Jing W, Liu C, Su C, Liu L, Chen P, Li X, Zhang X, Yuan B, Wang H, Du X. Role of reactive oxygen species and mitochondrial damage in rheumatoid arthritis and targeted drugs. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1107670. [PMID: 36845127 PMCID: PMC9948260 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1107670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease characterized by synovial inflammation, pannus formation, and bone and cartilage damage. It has a high disability rate. The hypoxic microenvironment of RA joints can cause reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation and mitochondrial damage, which not only affect the metabolic processes of immune cells and pathological changes in fibroblastic synovial cells but also upregulate the expression of several inflammatory pathways, ultimately promoting inflammation. Additionally, ROS and mitochondrial damage are involved in angiogenesis and bone destruction, thereby accelerating RA progression. In this review, we highlighted the effects of ROS accumulation and mitochondrial damage on inflammatory response, angiogenesis, bone and cartilage damage in RA. Additionally, we summarized therapies that target ROS or mitochondria to relieve RA symptoms and discuss the gaps in research and existing controversies, hoping to provide new ideas for research in this area and insights for targeted drug development in RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiyao Jing
- Department of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
| | - Cui Liu
- Department of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
| | - Chenghong Su
- Department of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
| | - Limei Liu
- Department of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
| | - Ping Chen
- Department of Rheumatic and Bone Disease, Gansu Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xiangjun Li
- Department of Rheumatic and Bone Disease, Gansu Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xinghua Zhang
- Department of Acupuncture, Gansu Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
| | - Bo Yuan
- Department of Acupuncture and Pain, Affiliated Hospital of Gansu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
| | - Haidong Wang
- Department of Rheumatic and Bone Disease, Gansu Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China,*Correspondence: Haidong Wang, ; Xiaozheng Du,
| | - Xiaozheng Du
- Department of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China,*Correspondence: Haidong Wang, ; Xiaozheng Du,
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17
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Long noncoding RNA H19 synergizes with STAT1 to regulate SNX10 in rheumatoid arthritis. Mol Immunol 2023; 153:106-118. [PMID: 36459790 DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2022.11.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Erosive destruction of joint structures is an important event in the rheumatoid arthritis (RA) development where fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS) represent the main effectors. The implication of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in RA has not been clearly established. Here, we sought to assess the function of lncRNA H19 in RA by assessing its contribution to the phenotype of FLS. H19 was overexpressed in RA-FLS, and H19 promoted RA-FLS proliferation, invasion as well as angiogenesis and reduced RA-FLS apoptosis. Moreover, H19 loss significantly alleviated joint redness and swelling and reduced inflammatory response, synovial hyperplasia and cartilage damage in arthritic mice induced by collagen. Mechanistically, H19 significantly increased the transcription of sorting nexin (SNX) 10 in RA-FLS by promoting STAT1 translocation into the nucleus. Overexpression of SNX10 or STAT1 mitigated the repressing effects of H19 loss on RA in mice. Our findings highlight that H19 upregulation may result in the development of FLS-mediated RA via the STAT1/SNX10 axis. H19 might serve as a possible therapeutic target for RA treatment.
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18
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Lin Z, Ma Y, Zhu X, Dai S, Sun W, Li W, Niu S, Chu M, Zhang J. Potential predictive and therapeutic applications of small extracellular vesicles-derived circPARD3B in osteoarthritis. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:968776. [DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.968776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Heterogeneous phenotypes that display distinct common characteristics of osteoarthritis (OA) are not well defined and will be helpful in identifying more customized therapeutic options for OA. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have attracted more and more attention due to their role in the progression of OA. Investigating the role of circRNAs in the pathogenesis of OA will contribute to the phenotyping of OA and to individualized treatment.Methods: Small extracellular vesicles (sEV) were isolated from serum samples from patients with OA of different stages and sEV-derived circPARD3B was determined using RT-qPCR analysis. CircPARD3B expression in a stimulated coculture that included OA fibroblast-like synoviocytes (OA-FLS) as well as human dermal microvascular endothelial cells (HDMECs), plus the effects of circPARD3B on the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) long with angiogenic activity, were evaluated in vitro. Based on bioinformatics analysis and luciferase reporter assay (LRA), MiR-326 and sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) were found to be interactive partners of circPARD3B. Mesenchymal stem cells (SMSCs) overexpressing circPARD3B were constructed and SMSCs-derived sEV with overexpressed circPARD3B (OE-circPARD3B-SMSCs-sEV) were obtained to explore the effect of the intervention of circPARD3B combined with SMSCs-sEV-based therapy in vitro and in a OA model induced by collagenase in vivo.Results: Serum sEV-linked circPARD3B was indentified to be significantly decreased in the inflammatory phenotype of OA. Overexpression of circPARD3B was found to inhibit the expression of VEGF, as well as the angiogenesis induced by VEGF in a IL-1β stimulated the co-culture of OA-FLS as well as HDMECs. CircPARD3B is directly bound to miR-326. SIRT1 was considered a novel miR-326 target gene. OE-circPARD3B-SMSCs-sEV significantly reduced VEGF expression in coculture of OA-FLS and HDMECs. Injection of OE-circPARD3B-SMSCs-sEV could also reduce synovial VEGF; additionally, it could further ameliorate OA in the mouse model of OA in vivo.Conclusion: Serum sEV circPARD3B is a potential biomarker that enables the identification of the inflammatory phenotype of patients with OA. Correspondingly, intracellular transfer of circPARD3B through OE-circPARD3B-SMSCs-sEV could postpone disease progression through a functional module regulated angiogenesis of circPARD3B-miR-326-SIRT1, providing a novel therapeutic strategy for OA.
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He X, Yin J, Yu M, Qiu J, Wang A, Wang H, He X, Wu X. Identification and validation of potential hub genes in rheumatoid arthritis by bioinformatics analysis. Am J Transl Res 2022; 14:6751-6762. [PMID: 36247278 PMCID: PMC9556438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is considered to be a chronic immune disease pathologically characterized by synovial inflammation and bone destruction. At present, the potential pathogenesis of RA is still unclear. Hub genes are recognized to play a pivotal role in the occurrence and progression of RA. METHODS Firstly, we attempted to screen hub genes that are associated with RA, to clarify the underlying pathological mechanisms of RA, and to offer potential treatment methods for RA. We acquired these datasets (GSE12021, GSE55235, and GSE55457) of RA patients and healthy samples from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were recognized via R software. Then, Gene ontology (GO) functional analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis were utilized to deeply explore the underlying biological functions and pathways closely associated with RA. In addition, a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was built to further evaluate and screen for hub genes. Finally, on the basis of the results of PPI analysis, we confirmed the mRNA expression levels of five hub genes in the synovial tissue of rats modeled with RA. RESULTS In the human microarray datasets, LCK, JAK2, SOCS3, STAT1, and EGFR were identified as hub genes associated with RA by bioinformatics analysis. Furthermore, we verified the differential expression levels of hub genes in rat synovial tissues via qRT-PCR (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that the hub genes LCK, JAK2, SOCS3, STAT1, and EGFR might have vital roles in the progression of RA and may offer novel therapeutic treatments for RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinling He
- The Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Southwest Medical UniversityLuzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Ji Yin
- The Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Southwest Medical UniversityLuzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Mingfang Yu
- The Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Southwest Medical UniversityLuzhou, Sichuan, China
- The Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of LuzhouLuzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Jiao Qiu
- The Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Southwest Medical UniversityLuzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Aiyang Wang
- The Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Southwest Medical UniversityLuzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Haoyu Wang
- The Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Southwest Medical UniversityLuzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Xueyi He
- The Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Southwest Medical UniversityLuzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Xiao Wu
- The Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Southwest Medical UniversityLuzhou, Sichuan, China
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Zhao C, Li XY, Li ZY, Li M, Liu ZD. Moxibustion regulates T-regulatory/T-helper 17 cell balance by modulating the microRNA-221/suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 axis in a mouse model of rheumatoid arthritis. JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE 2022; 20:453-462. [PMID: 35729047 DOI: 10.1016/j.joim.2022.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) progression is associated with the balance of T-regulatory (Treg) and T-helper 17 (Th17) cells, while the role of microRNAs (miRs) in regulating Treg/Th17 cell balance has not been clarified. This study aimed to assess whether moxibustion could regulate Treg/Th17 cell balance by modulating the miR-221/suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS3) axis in the RA mouse model. METHODS A mouse model of collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) was established in male DBA/1J mice. Twenty-two days after CIA induction, the mice received daily treatment with moxibustion for 12 times. Pathological scores were assessed according to the levels of synovial hyperplasia. The expression levels of cytokines interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interferon-γ (IFN-γ), IL-17 and IL-10 were analyzed in serum by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The cluster of differentiation 4 (CD4+) splenocytes was analyzed by fluorescence-activated cell sorting. The expression levels of RA-related miRs and target genes were subsequently detected, and the target of miR-221 was confirmed by the dual-luciferase reporter assay. RESULTS It was revealed that moxibustion treatment decreased the pathological scores and downregulated the expression levels of IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, IFN-γ and IL-17, while upregulated the expression level of IL-10. The Treg/Th17 cell balance was regulated by moxibustion treatment. The expression level of miR-221 was suppressed by moxibustion treatment. Furthermore, SOCS3 was found as the direct target of miR-221, which mediated the function of moxibustion by regulating the Treg/Th17 cell balance. CONCLUSION Moxibustion therapy regulated the Treg/Th17 cell balance by modulating the miR-221/SOCS3 axis in the RA mouse model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuang Zhao
- Department of Acupuncture, Baoshan Branch of Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201999, China; Department of Acupuncture, Baoshan Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine, Shanghai 201999, China
| | - Xiao-Yan Li
- Department of Acupuncture, Baoshan Branch of Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201999, China; Department of Acupuncture, Baoshan Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine, Shanghai 201999, China
| | - Zun-Yuan Li
- Department of Acupuncture, Baoshan Branch of Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201999, China; Department of Acupuncture, Baoshan Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine, Shanghai 201999, China
| | - Miao Li
- Department of Acupuncture, Baoshan Branch of Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201999, China; Department of Acupuncture, Baoshan Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine, Shanghai 201999, China
| | - Zhi-Dan Liu
- Department of Acupuncture, Baoshan Branch of Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201999, China; Department of Acupuncture, Baoshan Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine, Shanghai 201999, China.
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Peficitinib inhibits fibroblast-like synoviocyte activation and angiogenic vascular endothelial tube formation via inhibitory effects on PDGF and VEGF signaling in addition to JAK. J Pharmacol Sci 2022; 150:74-80. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jphs.2022.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
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22
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Systematic Review: Targeted Molecular Imaging of Angiogenesis and Its Mediators in Rheumatoid Arthritis. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23137071. [PMID: 35806074 PMCID: PMC9267012 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23137071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Revised: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Extensive angiogenesis is a characteristic feature in the synovial tissue of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) from a very early stage of the disease onward and constitutes a crucial event for the development of the proliferative synovium. This process is markedly intensified in patients with prolonged disease duration, high disease activity, disease severity, and significant inflammatory cell infiltration. Angiogenesis is therefore an interesting target for the development of new therapeutic approaches as well as disease monitoring strategies in RA. To this end, nuclear imaging modalities represent valuable non-invasive tools that can selectively target molecular markers of angiogenesis and accurately and quantitatively track molecular changes in multiple joints simultaneously. This systematic review summarizes the imaging markers used for single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) and/or positron emission tomography (PET) approaches, targeting pathways and mediators involved in synovial neo-angiogenesis in RA.
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Tofacitinib May Inhibit Myofibroblast Differentiation from Rheumatoid-Fibroblast-like Synoviocytes Induced by TGF-β and IL-6. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15050622. [PMID: 35631449 PMCID: PMC9147406 DOI: 10.3390/ph15050622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Revised: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
During rheumatoid arthritis (RA), the pathogenic role of resident cells within the synovial membrane is suggested, especially for a population frequently referred to as fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLSs). In this study, we assess the markers of myofibroblast differentiation of RA-FLSs by ex vivo observations and in vitro evaluations following the stimulation with both TGF-β and IL-6. Furthermore, we investigated the possible inhibiting role of tofacitinib, a JAK inhibitor, in this context. Myofibroblast differentiation markers were evaluated on RA synovial tissues by immune-fluorescence or immune-histochemistry. RA-FLSs, stimulated with transforming growth factor (TGF-β) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) with/without tofacitinib, were assessed for myofibroblast differentiation markers expression by qRT-PCR and Western blot. The same markers were evaluated following JAK-1 silencing by siRNA assay. The presence of myofibroblast differentiation markers in RA synovial tissue was significantly higher than healthy controls. Ex vivo, α-SMA was increased, whereas E-Cadherin decreased. In vitro, TGF-β and IL-6 stimulation of RA-FLSs promoted a significant increased mRNA expression of collagen I and α-SMA, whereas E-Cadherin mRNA expression was decreased. In the same conditions, the stimulation with tofacitinib significantly reduced the mRNA expression of collagen I and α-SMA, even if the Western blot did not confirm this finding. JAK-1 gene silencing did not fully prevent the effects of stimulation with TGF-β and IL-6 on these features. TGF-β and IL-6 stimulation may play a role in mediating myofibroblast differentiation from RA-FLSs, promoting collagen I and α-SMA while decreasing E-Cadherin. Following the same stimulation, tofacitinib reduced the increases of both collagen I and α-SMA on RA-FLSs, although further studies are needed to fully evaluate this issue and confirm our results.
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Li J, Yin Z, Huang B, Xu K, Su J. Stat3 Signaling Pathway: A Future Therapeutic Target for Bone-Related Diseases. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:897539. [PMID: 35548357 PMCID: PMC9081430 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.897539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (Stat3) is activated by phosphorylation and translocated to the nucleus to participate in the transcriptional regulation of DNA. Increasing evidences point that aberrant activation or deletion of the Stat3 plays a critical role in a broad range of pathological processes including immune escape, tumorigenesis, and inflammation. In the bone microenvironment, Stat3 acts as a common downstream response protein for multiple cytokines and is engaged in the modulation of cellular proliferation and intercellular interactions. Stat3 has direct impacts on disease progression by regulating mesenchymal stem cells differentiation, osteoclast activation, macrophage polarization, angiogenesis, and cartilage degradation. Here, we describe the theoretical basis and key roles of Stat3 in different bone-related diseases in combination with in vitro experiments and animal models. Then, we summarize and categorize the drugs that target Stat3, providing potential therapeutic strategies for their use in bone-related diseases. In conclusion, Stat3 could be a future target for bone-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiadong Li
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
- School of Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
- School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhifeng Yin
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Zhongye Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Biaotong Huang
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Biaotong Huang, ; Ke Xu, ; Jiacan Su,
| | - Ke Xu
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Biaotong Huang, ; Ke Xu, ; Jiacan Su,
| | - Jiacan Su
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Biaotong Huang, ; Ke Xu, ; Jiacan Su,
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Zhao J, Guo S, Schrodi SJ, He D. Molecular and Cellular Heterogeneity in Rheumatoid Arthritis: Mechanisms and Clinical Implications. Front Immunol 2021; 12:790122. [PMID: 34899757 PMCID: PMC8660630 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.790122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that exhibits significant clinical heterogeneity. There are various treatments for rheumatoid arthritis, including disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs), glucocorticoids, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and inflammatory cytokine inhibitors (ICI), typically associated with differentiated clinical effects and characteristics. Personalized responsiveness is observed to the standard treatment due to the pathophysiological heterogeneity in rheumatoid arthritis, resulting in an overall poor prognosis. Understanding the role of individual variation in cellular and molecular mechanisms related to rheumatoid arthritis will considerably improve clinical care and patient outcomes. In this review, we discuss the source of pathophysiological heterogeneity derived from genetic, molecular, and cellular heterogeneity and their possible impact on precision medicine and personalized treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. We provide emphasized description of the heterogeneity derived from mast cells, monocyte cell, macrophage fibroblast-like synoviocytes and, interactions within immune cells and with inflammatory cytokines, as well as the potential as a new therapeutic target to develop a novel treatment approach. Finally, we summarize the latest clinical trials of treatment options for rheumatoid arthritis and provide a suggestive framework for implementing preclinical and clinical experimental results into clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianan Zhao
- Guanghua Clinical Medical College, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Rheumatology, Shanghai Guanghua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shicheng Guo
- Computation and Informatics in Biology and Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Steven J. Schrodi
- Computation and Informatics in Biology and Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Dongyi He
- Guanghua Clinical Medical College, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Rheumatology, Shanghai Guanghua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Arthritis Institute of Integrated Traditional and Western Medicine, Shanghai Chinese Medicine Research Institute, Shanghai, China
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