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Pietsch C, Konrad J, Wernicke von Siebenthal E, Pawlak P. Multiple faces of stress in the zebrafish ( Danio rerio) brain. Front Physiol 2024; 15:1373234. [PMID: 38711953 PMCID: PMC11070943 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2024.1373234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024] Open
Abstract
The changing expressions of certain genes as a consequence of exposure to stressors has not been studied in detail in the fish brain. Therefore, a stress trial with zebrafish was conducted, aiming at identifying relevant gene regulation pathways in different regions of the brain. As acute stressors within this trial, feed rewarding, feed restriction, and air exposure have been used. The gene expression data from the experimental fish brains have been analyzed by means of principal component analyses (PCAs), whereby the individual genes have been compiled according to the regulation pathways in the brain. The results did not indicate a mutual response across the treatment and gender groups. To evaluate whether a similar sample structure belonging to a large sample size would have allowed the classification of the gene expression patterns according to the treatments, the data have been bootstrapped and used for building random forest models. These revealed a high accuracy of the classifications, but different genes in the female and male zebrafish were found to have contributed to the classification algorithms the most. These analyses showed that less than eight genes are, in most cases, sufficient for an accurate classification. Moreover, mainly genes belonging to the stress axis, to the isotocin regulation pathways, or to the serotonergic pathways had the strongest influence on the outcome of the classification models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Constanze Pietsch
- School of Agricultural, Forest and Food Sciences (HAFL), University of Applied Sciences Bern (BFH), Zollikofen, Switzerland
| | - Jonathan Konrad
- School of Agricultural, Forest and Food Sciences (HAFL), University of Applied Sciences Bern (BFH), Zollikofen, Switzerland
| | - Elena Wernicke von Siebenthal
- School of Agricultural, Forest and Food Sciences (HAFL), University of Applied Sciences Bern (BFH), Zollikofen, Switzerland
| | - Paulina Pawlak
- School of Agricultural, Forest and Food Sciences (HAFL), University of Applied Sciences Bern (BFH), Zollikofen, Switzerland
- Division of Behavioural Ecology, Institute of Ecology and Evolution, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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2
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Ariyeloye S, Kämmerer S, Klapproth E, Wielockx B, El-Armouche A. Intertwined regulators: hypoxia pathway proteins, microRNAs, and phosphodiesterases in the control of steroidogenesis. Pflugers Arch 2024:10.1007/s00424-024-02921-4. [PMID: 38355819 DOI: 10.1007/s00424-024-02921-4] [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: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Oxygen sensing is of paramount importance for maintaining cellular and systemic homeostasis. In response to diminished oxygen levels, the hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs) orchestrate various biological processes. These pivotal transcription factors have been identified as key regulators of several biological events. Notably, extensive research from our group and others has demonstrated that HIF1α exerts an inverse regulatory effect on steroidogenesis, leading to the suppression of crucial steroidogenic enzyme expression and a subsequent decrease in steroid levels. These steroid hormones occupy pivotal roles in governing a myriad of physiological processes. Substantial or prolonged fluctuations in steroid levels carry detrimental consequences across multiple organ systems and underlie various pathological conditions, including metabolic and immune disorders. MicroRNAs serve as potent mediators of multifaceted gene regulatory mechanisms, acting as influential epigenetic regulators that modulate a broad spectrum of gene expressions. Concomitantly, phosphodiesterases (PDEs) play a crucial role in governing signal transduction. PDEs meticulously manage intracellular levels of both cAMP and cGMP, along with their respective signaling pathways and downstream targets. Intriguingly, an intricate interplay seems to exist between hypoxia signaling, microRNAs, and PDEs in the regulation of steroidogenesis. This review highlights recent advances in our understanding of the role of microRNAs during hypoxia-driven processes, including steroidogenesis, as well as the possibilities that exist in the application of HIF prolyl hydroxylase (PHD) inhibitors for the modulation of steroidogenesis.
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Grants
- CRC/Transregio 205/1, Project No. 314061271 - TRR205, "The Adrenal: Central Relay in Health and Disease" (A02) to B.W. and A.E.-A.; DFG grants WI3291/12-1 and 13-1 to B.W, EL 270/7-3 to A.E.-A., KA 4194/3-3 to S.K.. Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft
- This work was also supported by a grant from the DFG priority program µBONE 2084 to B.W.; project no. 288034826 - international research training group (IRTG) 2251 to A.E.A. and S.K. Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft
- This work was also supported by a grant from the DFG priority program µBONE 2084 to B.W.; project no. 288034826 - international research training group (IRTG) 2251 to A.E.A. and S.K. Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft
- CRC/Transregio 205/1, Project No. 314061271 - TRR205, "The Adrenal: Central Relay in Health and Disease" (A02) to B.W. and A.E.-A.; DFG grants WI3291/12-1 and 13-1 to B.W, EL 270/7-3 to A.E.-A., KA 4194/3-3 to S.K.. Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft
- CRC/Transregio 205/1, Project No. 314061271 - TRR205, "The Adrenal: Central Relay in Health and Disease" (A02) to B.W. and A.E.-A.; DFG grants WI3291/12-1 and 13-1 to B.W, EL 270/7-3 to A.E.-A., KA 4194/3-3 to S.K.. Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Ariyeloye
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Dresden, Germany
| | - Susanne Kämmerer
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical Faculty, Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstrasse 74, 01307, Dresden, Germany
| | - Erik Klapproth
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical Faculty, Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstrasse 74, 01307, Dresden, Germany
| | - Ben Wielockx
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Dresden, Germany.
| | - Ali El-Armouche
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical Faculty, Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstrasse 74, 01307, Dresden, Germany.
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3
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Faught E, Schaaf MJM. Molecular mechanisms of the stress-induced regulation of the inflammatory response in fish. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2024; 345:114387. [PMID: 37788784 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2023.114387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Revised: 09/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
Stressors in the environment of aquatic organisms can profoundly affect their immune system. The stress response in fish involves the activation of the hypothalamus-pituitary-interrenal (HPI) axis, leading to the release of several stress hormones, among them glucocorticoids, such as cortisol, which bind and activate corticosteroid receptors, namely the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) and mineralocorticoid receptor (MR). These receptors are highly expressed on immune cells, thereby allowing stress to have a potent effect that is classically considered to suppress immune function. In this review, we highlight the conserved structure and function of GR and MR among vertebrates and describe their role in modulating inflammation by regulating the expression of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory genes. In particular, the involvement of MR during inflammation is reviewed, which in many studies has been shown to be immune-enhancing. In recent years, the use of zebrafish as a model organism has opened up new possibilities to study the effects of stress on inflammation, making it possible to investigate knockout lines for MR and/or GR, in combination with transgenic models with fluorescently labeled leukocyte subpopulations that enable the visualization and manipulation of these immune cells. The potential roles of other hormones of the HPI axis, such as corticotrophin-releasing hormone (Crh) and adrenocorticotropic hormone (Acth), in immune modulation are also discussed. Overall, this review highlights the need for further research to elucidate the specific roles of GR, MR and other stress hormones in regulating immune function in fish. Understanding these mechanisms will contribute to improving fish health and advancing our knowledge of stress signalling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin Faught
- Institute of Biology Leiden, Leiden University, The Netherlands
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4
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Baranova K, Nalivaeva N, Rybnikova E. Neuroadaptive Biochemical Mechanisms of Remote Ischemic Conditioning. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:17032. [PMID: 38069355 PMCID: PMC10707673 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242317032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
This review summarizes the currently known biochemical neuroadaptive mechanisms of remote ischemic conditioning. In particular, it focuses on the significance of the pro-adaptive effects of remote ischemic conditioning which allow for the prevention of the neurological and cognitive impairments associated with hippocampal dysregulation after brain damage. The neuroimmunohumoral pathway transmitting a conditioning stimulus, as well as the molecular basis of the early and delayed phases of neuroprotection, including anti-apoptotic, anti-oxidant, and anti-inflammatory components, are also outlined. Based on the close interplay between the effects of ischemia, especially those mediated by interaction of hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs) and steroid hormones, the involvement of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical system in remote ischemic conditioning is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Elena Rybnikova
- I. P. Pavlov Institute of Physiology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 199034 Saint Petersburg, Russia; (K.B.); (N.N.)
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5
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Eachus H, Oberski L, Paveley J, Bacila I, Ashton JP, Esposito U, Seifuddin F, Pirooznia M, Elhaik E, Placzek M, Krone NP, Cunliffe VT. Glucocorticoid receptor regulates protein chaperone, circadian clock and affective disorder genes in the zebrafish brain. Dis Model Mech 2023; 16:dmm050141. [PMID: 37525888 PMCID: PMC10565112 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.050141] [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: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Glucocorticoid resistance is commonly observed in depression, and has been linked to reduced expression and/or function of the glucocorticoid receptor (NR3C1 in human, hereafter referred to as GR). Previous studies have shown that GR-mutant zebrafish exhibit behavioural abnormalities that are indicative of an affective disorder, suggesting that GR plays a role in brain function. We compared the brain methylomes and brain transcriptomes of adult wild-type and GR-mutant zebrafish, and identified 249 differentially methylated regions (DMRs) that are regulated by GR. These include a cluster of CpG sites within the first intron of fkbp5, the gene encoding the glucocorticoid-inducible heat shock protein co-chaperone Fkbp5. RNA-sequencing analysis revealed that genes associated with chaperone-mediated protein folding, the regulation of circadian rhythm and the regulation of metabolism are particularly sensitive to loss of GR function. In addition, we identified subsets of genes exhibiting GR-regulated transcription that are known to regulate behaviour, and are linked to unipolar depression and anxiety. Taken together, our results identify key biological processes and novel molecular mechanisms through which the GR is likely to mediate responses to stress in the adult zebrafish brain, and they provide further support for the zebrafish GR mutant as a model for the study of affective disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen Eachus
- School of Biosciences, University of Sheffield, Firth Court, Western Bank, Sheffield S10 2TN, UK
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, Medical School, University of Sheffield, Beech Hill Road, Sheffield S10 2RX, UK
| | - Lara Oberski
- School of Biosciences, University of Sheffield, Firth Court, Western Bank, Sheffield S10 2TN, UK
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, Medical School, University of Sheffield, Beech Hill Road, Sheffield S10 2RX, UK
| | - Jack Paveley
- School of Biosciences, University of Sheffield, Firth Court, Western Bank, Sheffield S10 2TN, UK
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, Medical School, University of Sheffield, Beech Hill Road, Sheffield S10 2RX, UK
| | - Irina Bacila
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, Medical School, University of Sheffield, Beech Hill Road, Sheffield S10 2RX, UK
| | - John-Paul Ashton
- School of Biosciences, University of Sheffield, Firth Court, Western Bank, Sheffield S10 2TN, UK
| | - Umberto Esposito
- School of Biosciences, University of Sheffield, Firth Court, Western Bank, Sheffield S10 2TN, UK
| | - Fayaz Seifuddin
- Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Building 12, 12 South Drive, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Mehdi Pirooznia
- Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Building 12, 12 South Drive, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Eran Elhaik
- School of Biosciences, University of Sheffield, Firth Court, Western Bank, Sheffield S10 2TN, UK
| | - Marysia Placzek
- School of Biosciences, University of Sheffield, Firth Court, Western Bank, Sheffield S10 2TN, UK
| | - Nils P. Krone
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, Medical School, University of Sheffield, Beech Hill Road, Sheffield S10 2RX, UK
- Department of Medicine III, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Vincent T. Cunliffe
- School of Biosciences, University of Sheffield, Firth Court, Western Bank, Sheffield S10 2TN, UK
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6
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Dinarello A, Betto RM, Diamante L, Tesoriere A, Ghirardo R, Cioccarelli C, Meneghetti G, Peron M, Laquatra C, Tiso N, Martello G, Argenton F. STAT3 and HIF1α cooperatively mediate the transcriptional and physiological responses to hypoxia. Cell Death Discov 2023; 9:226. [PMID: 37407568 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-023-01507-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 06/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023] Open
Abstract
STAT3 and HIF1α are two fundamental transcription factors involved in many merging processes, like angiogenesis, metabolism, and cell differentiation. Notably, under pathological conditions, the two factors have been shown to interact genetically, but both the molecular mechanisms underlying such interactions and their relevance under physiological conditions remain unclear. In mouse embryonic stem cells (ESCs) we manage to determine the specific subset of hypoxia-induced genes that need STAT3 to be properly transcribed and, among them, fundamental genes like Vegfa, Hk1, Hk2, Pfkp and Hilpda are worth mentioning. Unexpectedly, we also demonstrated that the absence of STAT3 does not affect the expression of Hif1α mRNA nor the stabilization of HIF1α protein, but the STAT3-driven regulation of the hypoxia-dependent subset of gene could rely on the physical interaction between STAT3 and HIF1α. To further elucidate the physiological roles of this STAT3 non-canonical nuclear activity, we used a CRISPR/Cas9 zebrafish stat3 knock-out line. Notably, hypoxia-related fluorescence of the hypoxia zebrafish reporter line (HRE:mCherry) cannot be induced when Stat3 is not active and, while Stat3 Y705 phosphorylation seems to have a pivotal role in this process, S727 does not affect the Stat3-dependent hypoxia response. Hypoxia is fundamental for vascularization, angiogenesis and immune cells mobilization; all processes that, surprisingly, cannot be induced by low oxygen levels when Stat3 is genetically ablated. All in all, here we report the specific STAT3/HIF1α-dependent subset of genes in vitro and, for the first time with an in vivo model, we determined some of the physiological roles of STAT3-hypoxia crosstalk.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Linda Diamante
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Claudio Laquatra
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Natascia Tiso
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
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7
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Edwards HE, Elizalde MJ, Souder JP, Gorelick DA. Hemato-vascular specification requires arnt1 and arnt2 genes in zebrafish embryos. Development 2023; 150:dev200500. [PMID: 37039097 PMCID: PMC10163348 DOI: 10.1242/dev.200500] [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: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/12/2023]
Abstract
During embryonic development, a subset of cells in the mesoderm germ layer are specified as hemato-vascular progenitor cells, which then differentiate into endothelial cells and hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells. In zebrafish, the transcription factor npas4l (cloche) is required for the specification of hemato-vascular progenitor cells. However, it is unclear whether npas4l is the sole factor at the top of the hemato-vascular specification cascade. Here, we show that arnt1 and arnt2 genes are required for hemato-vascular specification. We found that arnt1;arnt2 double mutant zebrafish embryos, but not arnt1 or arnt2 single mutants, lack blood cells and most endothelial cells. arnt1/2 mutants have reduced or absent expression of etsrp and tal1, the earliest known endothelial and hematopoietic transcription factor genes. We found that Npas4l binds both Arnt1 and Arnt2 proteins in vitro, consistent with the idea that PAS domain-containing bHLH transcription factors act in a multimeric complex to regulate gene expression. Our results demonstrate that npas4l, arnt1 and arnt2 act together to regulate endothelial and hematopoietic cell fate, where each gene is necessary, but not sufficient, to drive hemato-vascular specification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hailey E. Edwards
- Center for Precision Environmental Health, Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Mary Jane Elizalde
- Center for Precision Environmental Health, Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Jaclyn P. Souder
- Center for Precision Environmental Health, Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Daniel A. Gorelick
- Center for Precision Environmental Health, Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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8
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Vanderhaeghen T, Timmermans S, Eggermont M, Watts D, Vandewalle J, Wallaeys C, Nuyttens L, De Temmerman J, Hochepied T, Dewaele S, Berghe JV, Sanders N, Wielockx B, Beyaert R, Libert C. The impact of hepatocyte-specific deletion of hypoxia-inducible factors on the development of polymicrobial sepsis with focus on GR and PPARα function. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1124011. [PMID: 37006237 PMCID: PMC10060827 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1124011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
IntroductionPolymicrobial sepsis causes acute anorexia (loss of appetite), leading to lipolysis in white adipose tissue and proteolysis in muscle, and thus release of free fatty acids (FFAs), glycerol and gluconeogenic amino acids. Since hepatic peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα) and glucocorticoid receptor (GR) quickly lose function in sepsis, these metabolites accumulate (causing toxicity) and fail to yield energy-rich molecules such as ketone bodies (KBs) and glucose. The mechanism of PPARα and GR dysfunction is not known.Methods & resultsWe investigated the hypothesis that hypoxia and/or activation of hypoxia inducible factors (HIFs) might play a role in these issues with PPARα and GR. After cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) in mice, leading to lethal polymicrobial sepsis, bulk liver RNA sequencing illustrated the induction of the genes encoding HIF1α and HIF2α, and an enrichment of HIF-dependent gene signatures. Therefore, we generated hepatocyte-specific knock-out mice for HIF1α, HIF2α or both, and a new HRE-luciferase reporter mouse line. After CLP, these HRE-luciferase reporter mice show signals in several tissues, including the liver. Hydrodynamic injection of an HRE-luciferase reporter plasmid also led to (liver-specific) signals in hypoxia and CLP. Despite these encouraging data, however, hepatocyte-specific HIF1α and/or HIF2α knock-out mice suggest that survival after CLP was not dependent on the hepatocyte-specific presence of HIF proteins, which was supported by measuring blood levels of glucose, FFAs, and KBs. The HIF proteins were also irrelevant in the CLP-induced glucocorticoid resistance, but we found indications that the absence of HIF1α in hepatocytes causes less inactivation of PPARα transcriptional function.ConclusionWe conclude that HIF1α and HIF2α are activated in hepatocytes in sepsis, but their contribution to the mechanisms leading to lethality are minimal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tineke Vanderhaeghen
- Flanders Institute for Biotechnology (VIB) Center for Inflammation Research, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Steven Timmermans
- Flanders Institute for Biotechnology (VIB) Center for Inflammation Research, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Melanie Eggermont
- Flanders Institute for Biotechnology (VIB) Center for Inflammation Research, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Deepika Watts
- Department of Clinical Pathobiochemistry, Institute for Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) Research Centre and Cluster of Excellence for Regenerative Therapies Dresden, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Jolien Vandewalle
- Flanders Institute for Biotechnology (VIB) Center for Inflammation Research, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Charlotte Wallaeys
- Flanders Institute for Biotechnology (VIB) Center for Inflammation Research, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Louise Nuyttens
- Flanders Institute for Biotechnology (VIB) Center for Inflammation Research, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Joyca De Temmerman
- Department of Nutrition, Genetics, and Ethology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Pathology, Bacteriology, and Avian Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Tino Hochepied
- Flanders Institute for Biotechnology (VIB) Center for Inflammation Research, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Sylviane Dewaele
- Flanders Institute for Biotechnology (VIB) Center for Inflammation Research, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Joke Vanden Berghe
- Flanders Institute for Biotechnology (VIB) Center for Inflammation Research, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Niek Sanders
- Department of Nutrition, Genetics, and Ethology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Pathology, Bacteriology, and Avian Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Ben Wielockx
- Department of Clinical Pathobiochemistry, Institute for Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) Research Centre and Cluster of Excellence for Regenerative Therapies Dresden, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Rudi Beyaert
- Flanders Institute for Biotechnology (VIB) Center for Inflammation Research, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Claude Libert
- Flanders Institute for Biotechnology (VIB) Center for Inflammation Research, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- *Correspondence: Claude Libert,
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9
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Risato G, Celeghin R, Brañas Casas R, Dinarello A, Zuppardo A, Vettori A, Pilichou K, Thiene G, Basso C, Argenton F, Visentin S, Cosmi E, Tiso N, Beffagna G. Hyperactivation of Wnt/β-catenin and Jak/Stat3 pathways in human and zebrafish foetal growth restriction models: Implications for pharmacological rescue. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:943127. [PMID: 36051436 PMCID: PMC9424487 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.943127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Foetal Growth Restriction (FGR), previously known as Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR), is an obstetrical condition due to placental insufficiency, affecting yearly about 30 million newborns worldwide. In this work, we aimed to identify and pharmacologically target signalling pathways specifically involved in the FGR condition, focusing on FGR-related cardiovascular phenotypes. The transcriptional profile of human umbilical cords from FGR and control cases was compared with the response to hypoxia of zebrafish (Danio rerio) transgenic lines reporting in vivo the activity of twelve signalling pathways involved in embryonic development. Wnt/β-catenin and Jak/Stat3 were found as key pathways significantly dysregulated in both human and zebrafish samples. This information was used in a chemical-genetic analysis to test drugs targeting Wnt/β-catenin and Jak/Stat3 pathways to rescue a set of FGR phenotypes, including growth restriction and cardiovascular modifications. Treatments with the Wnt/β-catenin agonist SB216763 successfully rescued body dimensions, cardiac shape, and vessel organization in zebrafish FGR models. Our data support the Wnt/β-catenin pathway as a key FGR marker and a promising target for pharmacological intervention in the FGR condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Risato
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- Department of Cardio-Thoraco-Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Rudy Celeghin
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- Department of Cardio-Thoraco-Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Andrea Vettori
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Kalliopi Pilichou
- Department of Cardio-Thoraco-Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Gaetano Thiene
- Department of Cardio-Thoraco-Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Cristina Basso
- Department of Cardio-Thoraco-Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- *Correspondence: Cristina Basso, ; Silvia Visentin, ; Natascia Tiso,
| | | | - Silvia Visentin
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- *Correspondence: Cristina Basso, ; Silvia Visentin, ; Natascia Tiso,
| | - Erich Cosmi
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Natascia Tiso
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- *Correspondence: Cristina Basso, ; Silvia Visentin, ; Natascia Tiso,
| | - Giorgia Beffagna
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- Department of Cardio-Thoraco-Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
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10
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Burtscher J, Niedermeier M, Hüfner K, van den Burg E, Kopp M, Stoop R, Burtscher M, Gatterer H, Millet GP. The interplay of hypoxic and mental stress: Implications for anxiety and depressive disorders. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2022; 138:104718. [PMID: 35661753 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2022.104718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Revised: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Adequate oxygen supply is essential for the human brain to meet its high energy demands. Therefore, elaborate molecular and systemic mechanism are in place to enable adaptation to low oxygen availability. Anxiety and depressive disorders are characterized by alterations in brain oxygen metabolism and of its components, such as mitochondria or hypoxia inducible factor (HIF)-pathways. Conversely, sensitivity and tolerance to hypoxia may depend on parameters of mental stress and the severity of anxiety and depressive disorders. Here we discuss relevant mechanisms of adaptations to hypoxia, as well as their involvement in mental stress and the etiopathogenesis of anxiety and depressive disorders. We suggest that mechanisms of adaptations to hypoxia (including metabolic responses, inflammation, and the activation of chemosensitive brain regions) modulate and are modulated by stress-related pathways and associated psychiatric diseases. While severe chronic hypoxia or dysfunctional hypoxia adaptations can contribute to the pathogenesis of anxiety and depressive disorders, harnessing controlled responses to hypoxia to increase cellular and psychological resilience emerges as a novel treatment strategy for these diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Burtscher
- Institute of Sport Sciences, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland; Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Martin Niedermeier
- Department of Sport Science, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Katharina Hüfner
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, Psychosomatics and Medical Psychology, University Clinic for Psychiatry II, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Erwin van den Burg
- Department of Psychiatry, Center of Psychiatric Neuroscience (CNP), University Hospital of Lausanne (CHUV), Prilly, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Martin Kopp
- Department of Sport Science, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Ron Stoop
- Department of Psychiatry, Center of Psychiatric Neuroscience (CNP), University Hospital of Lausanne (CHUV), Prilly, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Martin Burtscher
- Department of Sport Science, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Hannes Gatterer
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Eurac Research, Bolzano, Italy
| | - Grégoire P Millet
- Institute of Sport Sciences, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland; Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
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11
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Kwiatkowska I, Hermanowicz JM, Iwinska Z, Kowalczuk K, Iwanowska J, Pawlak D. Zebrafish—An Optimal Model in Experimental Oncology. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27134223. [PMID: 35807468 PMCID: PMC9268704 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27134223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Revised: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
A thorough understanding of cancer pathogenesis is a necessary step in the development of more effective and safer therapy. However, due to the complexity of the process and intricate interactions, studying tumor development is an extremely difficult and challenging task. In bringing this issue closer, different scientific models with various advancement levels are helpful. Cell cultures is a system that is too simple and does not allow for multidirectional research. On the other hand, rodent models, although commonly used, are burdened with several limitations. For this reason, new model organisms that will allow for the studying of carcinogenesis stages and factors reliably involved in them are urgently sought after. Danio rerio, an inconspicuous fish endowed with unique features, is gaining in importance in the world of scientific research. Including it in oncological research brings solutions to many challenges afflicting modern medicine. This article aims to illustrate the usefulness of Danio rerio as a model organism which turns out to be a powerful and unique tool for studying the stages of carcinogenesis and solving the hitherto incomprehensible processes that lead to the development of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iwona Kwiatkowska
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, Medical University of Bialystok, Mickiewicza 2C, 15-222 Bialystok, Poland; (J.M.H.); (Z.I.); (J.I.); (D.P.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel./Fax: +48-8574-856-01
| | - Justyna Magdalena Hermanowicz
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, Medical University of Bialystok, Mickiewicza 2C, 15-222 Bialystok, Poland; (J.M.H.); (Z.I.); (J.I.); (D.P.)
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Medical University of Bialystok, Mickiewicza 2C, 15-222 Bialystok, Poland
| | - Zaneta Iwinska
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, Medical University of Bialystok, Mickiewicza 2C, 15-222 Bialystok, Poland; (J.M.H.); (Z.I.); (J.I.); (D.P.)
| | - Krystyna Kowalczuk
- Department of Integrated Medical Care, Medical University of Bialystok, ul. M Skłodowskiej-Curie 7A, 15-096 Bialystok, Poland;
| | - Jolanta Iwanowska
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, Medical University of Bialystok, Mickiewicza 2C, 15-222 Bialystok, Poland; (J.M.H.); (Z.I.); (J.I.); (D.P.)
| | - Dariusz Pawlak
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, Medical University of Bialystok, Mickiewicza 2C, 15-222 Bialystok, Poland; (J.M.H.); (Z.I.); (J.I.); (D.P.)
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12
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Stifel U, Wolfschmitt EM, Vogt J, Wachter U, Vettorazzi S, Tews D, Hogg M, Zink F, Koll NM, Winning S, Mounier R, Chazaud B, Radermacher P, Fischer-Posovszky P, Caratti G, Tuckermann J. Glucocorticoids coordinate macrophage metabolism through the regulation of the tricarboxylic acid cycle. Mol Metab 2022; 57:101424. [PMID: 34954109 PMCID: PMC8783148 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmet.2021.101424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Glucocorticoids (GCs) are one of the most widely prescribed anti-inflammatory drugs. By acting through their cognate receptor, the glucocorticoid receptor (GR), GCs downregulate the expression of pro-inflammatory genes and upregulate the expression of anti-inflammatory genes. Metabolic pathways have recently been identified as key parts of both the inflammatory activation and anti-inflammatory polarization of macrophages, immune cells responsible for acute inflammation and tissue repair. It is currently unknown whether GCs control macrophage metabolism, and if so, to what extent metabolic regulation by GCs confers anti-inflammatory activity. METHODS Using transcriptomic and metabolomic profiling of macrophages, we identified GC-controlled pathways involved in metabolism, especially in mitochondrial function. RESULTS Metabolic analyses revealed that GCs repress glycolysis in inflammatory myeloid cells and promote tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle flux, promoting succinate metabolism and preventing intracellular accumulation of succinate. Inhibition of ATP synthase attenuated GC-induced transcriptional changes, likely through stalling of TCA cycle anaplerosis. We further identified a glycolytic regulatory transcription factor, HIF1α, as regulated by GCs, and as a key regulator of GC responsiveness during inflammatory challenge. CONCLUSIONS Our findings link metabolism to gene regulation by GCs in macrophages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrich Stifel
- Institute of Comparative Molecular Endocrinology (CME), Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Eva-Maria Wolfschmitt
- Institute for Anesthesiological Pathophysiology and Process Engineering, and Department of Anesthesiology, University Hospital, Ulm, Germany
| | - Josef Vogt
- Institute for Anesthesiological Pathophysiology and Process Engineering, and Department of Anesthesiology, University Hospital, Ulm, Germany
| | - Ulrich Wachter
- Institute for Anesthesiological Pathophysiology and Process Engineering, and Department of Anesthesiology, University Hospital, Ulm, Germany
| | - Sabine Vettorazzi
- Institute of Comparative Molecular Endocrinology (CME), Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Daniel Tews
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
| | - Melanie Hogg
- Institute for Anesthesiological Pathophysiology and Process Engineering, and Department of Anesthesiology, University Hospital, Ulm, Germany
| | - Fabian Zink
- Institute for Anesthesiological Pathophysiology and Process Engineering, and Department of Anesthesiology, University Hospital, Ulm, Germany
| | - Nora Maria Koll
- Institut fürPhysiologie, Universitätsklinikum Essen, Universität Duisburg-Essen, 45122, Essen, Germany
| | - Sandra Winning
- Institut fürPhysiologie, Universitätsklinikum Essen, Universität Duisburg-Essen, 45122, Essen, Germany
| | - Rémi Mounier
- Institut NeuroMyoGène, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS UMR 5310, INSERM U1217, Université Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Bénédicte Chazaud
- Institut NeuroMyoGène, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS UMR 5310, INSERM U1217, Université Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Peter Radermacher
- Institute for Anesthesiological Pathophysiology and Process Engineering, and Department of Anesthesiology, University Hospital, Ulm, Germany
| | | | - Giorgio Caratti
- Institute of Comparative Molecular Endocrinology (CME), Ulm University, Ulm, Germany.
| | - Jan Tuckermann
- Institute of Comparative Molecular Endocrinology (CME), Ulm University, Ulm, Germany.
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13
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Dinarello A, Tesoriere A, Martini P, Fontana CM, Volpato D, Badenetti L, Terrin F, Facchinello N, Romualdi C, Carnevali O, Dalla Valle L, Argenton F. Zebrafish Mutant Lines Reveal the Interplay between nr3c1 and nr3c2 in the GC-Dependent Regulation of Gene Transcription. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23052678. [PMID: 35269817 PMCID: PMC8910431 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23052678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Revised: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Glucocorticoids mainly exert their biological functions through their cognate receptor, encoded by the nr3c1 gene. Here, we analysed the glucocorticoids mechanism of action taking advantage of the availability of different zebrafish mutant lines for their receptor. The differences in gene expression patterns between the zebrafish gr knock-out and the grs357 mutant line, in which a point mutation prevents binding of the receptor to the hormone-responsive elements, reveal an intricate network of GC-dependent transcription. Particularly, we show that Stat3 transcriptional activity mainly relies on glucocorticoid receptor GR tethering activity: several Stat3 target genes are induced upon glucocorticoid GC exposure both in wild type and in grs357/s357 larvae, but not in gr knock-out zebrafish. To understand the interplay between GC, their receptor, and the mineralocorticoid receptor, which is evolutionarily and structurally related to the GR, we generated an mr knock-out line and observed that several GC-target genes also need a functional mineralocorticoid receptor MR to be correctly transcribed. All in all, zebrafish mutants and transgenic models allow in vivo analysis of GR transcriptional activities and interactions with other transcription factors such as MR and Stat3 in an in-depth and rapid way.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Dinarello
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, 35121 Padova, Italy; (A.D.); (A.T.); (C.M.F.); (D.V.); (L.B.); (F.T.); (N.F.); (C.R.); (F.A.)
| | - Annachiara Tesoriere
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, 35121 Padova, Italy; (A.D.); (A.T.); (C.M.F.); (D.V.); (L.B.); (F.T.); (N.F.); (C.R.); (F.A.)
| | - Paolo Martini
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, 25121 Brescia, Italy;
| | - Camilla Maria Fontana
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, 35121 Padova, Italy; (A.D.); (A.T.); (C.M.F.); (D.V.); (L.B.); (F.T.); (N.F.); (C.R.); (F.A.)
| | - Davide Volpato
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, 35121 Padova, Italy; (A.D.); (A.T.); (C.M.F.); (D.V.); (L.B.); (F.T.); (N.F.); (C.R.); (F.A.)
| | - Lorenzo Badenetti
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, 35121 Padova, Italy; (A.D.); (A.T.); (C.M.F.); (D.V.); (L.B.); (F.T.); (N.F.); (C.R.); (F.A.)
| | - Francesca Terrin
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, 35121 Padova, Italy; (A.D.); (A.T.); (C.M.F.); (D.V.); (L.B.); (F.T.); (N.F.); (C.R.); (F.A.)
| | - Nicola Facchinello
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, 35121 Padova, Italy; (A.D.); (A.T.); (C.M.F.); (D.V.); (L.B.); (F.T.); (N.F.); (C.R.); (F.A.)
| | - Chiara Romualdi
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, 35121 Padova, Italy; (A.D.); (A.T.); (C.M.F.); (D.V.); (L.B.); (F.T.); (N.F.); (C.R.); (F.A.)
| | - Oliana Carnevali
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, 60131 Ancona, Italy;
| | - Luisa Dalla Valle
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, 35121 Padova, Italy; (A.D.); (A.T.); (C.M.F.); (D.V.); (L.B.); (F.T.); (N.F.); (C.R.); (F.A.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Francesco Argenton
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, 35121 Padova, Italy; (A.D.); (A.T.); (C.M.F.); (D.V.); (L.B.); (F.T.); (N.F.); (C.R.); (F.A.)
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14
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Vanderhaeghen T, Timmermans S, Watts D, Paakinaho V, Eggermont M, Vandewalle J, Wallaeys C, Van Wyngene L, Van Looveren K, Nuyttens L, Dewaele S, Vanden Berghe J, Lemeire K, De Backer J, Dirkx L, Vanden Berghe W, Caljon G, Ghesquière B, De Bosscher K, Wielockx B, Palvimo JJ, Beyaert R, Libert C. Reprogramming of glucocorticoid receptor function by hypoxia. EMBO Rep 2022; 23:e53083. [PMID: 34699114 PMCID: PMC8728616 DOI: 10.15252/embr.202153083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2021] [Revised: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Here, we investigate the impact of hypoxia on the hepatic response of glucocorticoid receptor (GR) to dexamethasone (DEX) in mice via RNA-sequencing. Hypoxia causes three types of reprogramming of GR: (i) much weaker induction of classical GR-responsive genes by DEX in hypoxia, (ii) a number of genes is induced by DEX specifically in hypoxia, and (iii) hypoxia induces a group of genes via activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. Transcriptional profiles are reflected by changed GR DNA-binding as measured by ChIP sequencing. The HPA axis is induced by hypothalamic HIF1α and HIF2α activation and leads to GR-dependent lipolysis and ketogenesis. Acute inflammation, induced by lipopolysaccharide, is prevented by DEX in normoxia but not during hypoxia, and this is attributed to HPA axis activation by hypoxia. We unfold new physiological pathways that have consequences for patients suffering from GC resistance.
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15
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Gans IM, Coffman JA. Glucocorticoid-Mediated Developmental Programming of Vertebrate Stress Responsivity. Front Physiol 2021; 12:812195. [PMID: 34992551 PMCID: PMC8724051 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.812195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Glucocorticoids, vertebrate steroid hormones produced by cells of the adrenal cortex or interrenal tissue, function dynamically to maintain homeostasis under constantly changing and occasionally stressful environmental conditions. They do so by binding and thereby activating nuclear receptor transcription factors, the Glucocorticoid and Mineralocorticoid Receptors (MR and GR, respectively). The GR, by virtue of its lower affinity for endogenous glucocorticoids (cortisol or corticosterone), is primarily responsible for transducing the dynamic signals conveyed by circadian and ultradian glucocorticoid oscillations as well as transient pulses produced in response to acute stress. These dynamics are important determinants of stress responsivity, and at the systemic level are produced by feedforward and feedback signaling along the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal/interrenal axis. Within receiving cells, GR signaling dynamics are controlled by the GR target gene and negative feedback regulator fkpb5. Chronic stress can alter signaling dynamics via imperfect physiological adaptation that changes systemic and/or cellular set points, resulting in chronically elevated cortisol levels and increased allostatic load, which undermines health and promotes development of disease. When this occurs during early development it can "program" the responsivity of the stress system, with persistent effects on allostatic load and disease susceptibility. An important question concerns the glucocorticoid-responsive gene regulatory network that contributes to such programming. Recent studies show that klf9, a ubiquitously expressed GR target gene that encodes a Krüppel-like transcription factor important for metabolic plasticity and neuronal differentiation, is a feedforward regulator of GR signaling impacting cellular glucocorticoid responsivity, suggesting that it may be a critical node in that regulatory network.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian M. Gans
- MDI Biological Laboratory, Salisbury Cove, ME, United States
- Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, University of Maine, Orono, ME, United States
| | - James A. Coffman
- MDI Biological Laboratory, Salisbury Cove, ME, United States
- Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, University of Maine, Orono, ME, United States
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16
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Homeostatic Regulation of Glucocorticoid Receptor Activity by Hypoxia-Inducible Factor 1: From Physiology to Clinic. Cells 2021; 10:cells10123441. [PMID: 34943949 PMCID: PMC8699886 DOI: 10.3390/cells10123441] [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: 11/12/2021] [Revised: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Glucocorticoids (GCs) represent a well-known class of lipophilic steroid hormones biosynthesised, with a circadian rhythm, by the adrenal glands in humans and by the inter-renal tissue in teleost fish (e.g., zebrafish). GCs play a key role in the regulation of numerous physiological processes, including inflammation, glucose, lipid, protein metabolism and stress response. This is achieved through binding to their cognate receptor, GR, which functions as a ligand-activated transcription factor. Due to their potent anti-inflammatory and immune-suppressive action, synthetic GCs are broadly used for treating pathological disorders that are very often linked to hypoxia (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory, allergic, infectious, and autoimmune diseases, among others) as well as to prevent graft rejections and against immune system malignancies. However, due to the presence of adverse effects and GC resistance their therapeutic benefits are limited in patients chronically treated with steroids. For this reason, understanding how to fine-tune GR activity is crucial in the search for novel therapeutic strategies aimed at reducing GC-related side effects and effectively restoring homeostasis. Recent research has uncovered novel mechanisms that inhibit GR function, thereby causing glucocorticoid resistance, and has produced some surprising new findings. In this review we analyse these mechanisms and focus on the crosstalk between GR and HIF signalling. Indeed, its comprehension may provide new routes to develop novel therapeutic targets for effectively treating immune and inflammatory response and to simultaneously facilitate the development of innovative GCs with a better benefits-risk ratio.
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17
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Glucocorticoid-Dependent Mechanisms of Brain Tolerance to Hypoxia. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22157982. [PMID: 34360746 PMCID: PMC8348130 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22157982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Revised: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Adaptation of organisms to stressors is coordinated by the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA), which involves glucocorticoids (GCs) and glucocorticoid receptors (GRs). Although the effects of GCs are well characterized, their impact on brain adaptation to hypoxia/ischemia is still understudied. The brain is not only the most susceptible to hypoxic injury, but also vulnerable to GC-induced damage, which makes studying the mechanisms of brain hypoxic tolerance and resistance to stress-related elevation of GCs of great importance. Cross-talk between the molecular mechanisms activated in neuronal cells by hypoxia and GCs provides a platform for developing the most effective and safe means for prevention and treatment of hypoxia-induced brain damage, including hypoxic pre- and post-conditioning. Taking into account that hypoxia- and GC-induced reprogramming significantly affects the development of organisms during embryogenesis, studies of the effects of prenatal and neonatal hypoxia on health in later life are of particular interest. This mini review discusses the accumulated data on the dynamics of the HPA activation in injurious and non-injurious hypoxia, the role of the brain GRs in these processes, interaction of GCs and hypoxia-inducible factor HIF-1, as well as cross-talk between GC and hypoxic signaling. It also identifies underdeveloped areas and suggests directions for further prospective studies.
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18
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Vanderhaeghen T, Beyaert R, Libert C. Bidirectional Crosstalk Between Hypoxia Inducible Factors and Glucocorticoid Signalling in Health and Disease. Front Immunol 2021; 12:684085. [PMID: 34149725 PMCID: PMC8211996 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.684085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Glucocorticoid-induced (GC) and hypoxia-induced transcriptional responses play an important role in tissue homeostasis and in the regulation of cellular responses to stress and inflammation. Evidence exists that there is an important crosstalk between both GC and hypoxia effects. Hypoxia is a pathophysiological condition to which cells respond quickly in order to prevent metabolic shutdown and death. The hypoxia inducible factors (HIFs) are the master regulators of oxygen homeostasis and are responsible for the ability of cells to cope with low oxygen levels. Maladaptive responses of HIFs contribute to a variety of pathological conditions including acute mountain sickness (AMS), inflammation and neonatal hypoxia-induced brain injury. Synthetic GCs which are analogous to the naturally occurring steroid hormones (cortisol in humans, corticosterone in rodents), have been used for decades as anti-inflammatory drugs for treating pathological conditions which are linked to hypoxia (i.e. asthma, ischemic injury). In this review, we investigate the crosstalk between the glucocorticoid receptor (GR), and HIFs. We discuss possible mechanisms by which GR and HIF influence one another, in vitro and in vivo, and the therapeutic effects of GCs on HIF-mediated diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tineke Vanderhaeghen
- Centre for Inflammation Research, Flanders Institute for Biotechnology (VIB), Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Rudi Beyaert
- Centre for Inflammation Research, Flanders Institute for Biotechnology (VIB), Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Claude Libert
- Centre for Inflammation Research, Flanders Institute for Biotechnology (VIB), Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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19
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Rational construction of a reversible arylazo-based NIR probe for cycling hypoxia imaging in vivo. Nat Commun 2021; 12:2772. [PMID: 33986258 PMCID: PMC8119430 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-22855-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Reversible NIR luminescent probes with negligible photocytotoxicity are required for long-term tracking of cycling hypoxia in vivo. However, almost all of the reported organic fluorescent hypoxia probes reported until now were irreversible. Here we report a reversible arylazo-conjugated fluorescent probe (HDSF) for cycling hypoxia imaging. HDSF displays an off-on fluorescence switch at 705 nm in normoxia-hypoxia cycles. Mass spectroscopic and theoretical studies confirm that the reversible sensing behavior is attributed to the two electron-withdrawing trifluoromethyl groups, which stabilizes the reduction intermediate phenylhydrazine and blocks the further reductive decomposition. Cycling hypoxia monitoring in cells and zebrafish embryos is realized by HDSF using confocal imaging. Moreover, hypoxic solid tumors are visualized and the ischemia-reperfusion process in mice is monitored in real-time. This work provides an effective strategy to construct organic fluorescent probes for cycling hypoxia imaging and paves the way for the study of cycling hypoxia biology.
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20
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Vitamin E Deficiency Disrupts Gene Expression Networks during Zebrafish Development. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13020468. [PMID: 33573233 PMCID: PMC7912379 DOI: 10.3390/nu13020468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Revised: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Vitamin E (VitE) is essential for vertebrate embryogenesis, but the mechanisms involved remain unknown. To study embryonic development, we fed zebrafish adults (>55 days) either VitE sufficient (E+) or deficient (E–) diets for >80 days, then the fish were spawned to generate E+ and E– embryos. To evaluate the transcriptional basis of the metabolic and phenotypic outcomes, E+ and E– embryos at 12, 18 and 24 h post-fertilization (hpf) were subjected to gene expression profiling by RNASeq. Hierarchical clustering, over-representation analyses and gene set enrichment analyses were performed with differentially expressed genes. E– embryos experienced overall disruption to gene expression associated with gene transcription, carbohydrate and energy metabolism, intracellular signaling and the formation of embryonic structures. mTOR was apparently a major controller of these changes. Thus, embryonic VitE deficiency results in genetic and transcriptional dysregulation as early as 12 hpf, leading to metabolic dysfunction and ultimately lethal outcomes.
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21
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Hammond FR, Lewis A, Elks PM. If it's not one thing, HIF's another: immunoregulation by hypoxia inducible factors in disease. FEBS J 2020; 287:3907-3916. [PMID: 32633061 PMCID: PMC7362030 DOI: 10.1111/febs.15476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Revised: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Hypoxia‐inducible factors (HIFs) have emerged in recent years as critical regulators of immunity. Localised, low oxygen tension is a hallmark of inflamed and infected tissues. Subsequent myeloid cell HIF stabilisation plays key roles in the innate immune response, alongside emerging oxygen‐independent roles. Manipulation of regulatory proteins of the HIF transcription factor family can profoundly influence inflammatory profiles, innate immune cell function and pathogen clearance and, as such, has been proposed as a therapeutic strategy against inflammatory diseases. The direction and mode of HIF manipulation as a therapy are dictated by the inflammatory properties of the disease in question, with innate immune cell HIF reduction being, in general, advantageous during chronic inflammatory conditions, while upregulation of HIF is beneficial during infections. The therapeutic potential of targeting myeloid HIFs, both genetically and pharmacologically, has been recently illuminated in vitro and in vivo, with an emerging range of inhibitory and activating strategies becoming available. This review focuses on cutting edge findings that uncover the roles of myeloid cell HIF signalling on immunoregulation in the contexts of inflammation and infection and explores future directions of potential therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ffion R Hammond
- The Bateson Centre, Department of Infection Immunity and Cardiovascular Disease, University of Sheffield, UK
| | - Amy Lewis
- The Bateson Centre, Department of Infection Immunity and Cardiovascular Disease, University of Sheffield, UK
| | - Philip M Elks
- The Bateson Centre, Department of Infection Immunity and Cardiovascular Disease, University of Sheffield, UK
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