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Khodeneva N, Sugimoto MA, Davan-Wetton CSA, Montero-Melendez T. Melanocortin therapies to resolve fibroblast-mediated diseases. Front Immunol 2023; 13:1084394. [PMID: 36793548 PMCID: PMC9922712 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1084394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Stromal cells have emerged as central drivers in multiple and diverse diseases, and consequently, as potential new cellular targets for the development of novel therapeutic strategies. In this review we revise the main roles of fibroblasts, not only as structural cells but also as players and regulators of immune responses. Important aspects like fibroblast heterogeneity, functional specialization and cellular plasticity are also discussed as well as the implications that these aspects may have in disease and in the design of novel therapeutics. An extensive revision of the actions of fibroblasts on different conditions uncovers the existence of numerous diseases in which this cell type plays a pathogenic role, either due to an exacerbation of their 'structural' side, or a dysregulation of their 'immune side'. In both cases, opportunities for the development of innovative therapeutic approaches exist. In this regard, here we revise the existing evidence pointing at the melanocortin pathway as a potential new strategy for the treatment and management of diseases mediated by aberrantly activated fibroblasts, including scleroderma or rheumatoid arthritis. This evidence derives from studies involving models of in vitro primary fibroblasts, in vivo models of disease as well as ongoing human clinical trials. Melanocortin drugs, which are pro-resolving mediators, have shown ability to reduce collagen deposition, activation of myofibroblasts, reduction of pro-inflammatory mediators and reduced scar formation. Here we also discuss existing challenges, both in approaching fibroblasts as therapeutic targets, and in the development of novel melanocortin drug candidates, that may help advance the field and deliver new medicines for the management of diseases with high medical needs.
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2
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Dinparastisaleh R, Mirsaeidi M. Antifibrotic and Anti-Inflammatory Actions of α-Melanocytic Hormone: New Roles for an Old Player. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14010045. [PMID: 33430064 PMCID: PMC7827684 DOI: 10.3390/ph14010045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2020] [Revised: 01/04/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The melanocortin system encompasses melanocortin peptides, five receptors, and two endogenous antagonists. Besides pigmentary effects generated by α-Melanocytic Hormone (α-MSH), new physiologic roles in sexual activity, exocrine secretion, energy homeostasis, as well as immunomodulatory actions, exerted by melanocortins, have been described recently. Among the most common and burdensome consequences of chronic inflammation is the development of fibrosis. Depending on the regenerative capacity of the affected tissue and the quality of the inflammatory response, the outcome is not always perfect, with the development of some fibrosis. Despite the heterogeneous etiology and clinical presentations, fibrosis in many pathological states follows the same path of activation or migration of fibroblasts, and the differentiation of fibroblasts to myofibroblasts, which produce collagen and α-SMA in fibrosing tissue. The melanocortin agonists might have favorable effects on the trajectories leading from tissue injury to inflammation, from inflammation to fibrosis, and from fibrosis to organ dysfunction. In this review we briefly summarized the data on structure, receptor signaling, and anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic properties of α-MSH and proposed that α-MSH analogues might be promising future therapeutic candidates for inflammatory and fibrotic diseases, regarding their favorable safety profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roshan Dinparastisaleh
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA;
| | - Mehdi Mirsaeidi
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33146, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-305-243-1377
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3
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Al-Humadi H, Alhumadi A, Al-Saigh R, Strilakou A, Lazaris AC, Gazouli M, Liapi C. "Extracellular matrix remodelling in the liver of rats subjected to dietary choline deprivation and/or thioacetamide administration". Clin Exp Pharmacol Physiol 2018; 45:1245-1256. [PMID: 30019784 DOI: 10.1111/1440-1681.13013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2017] [Revised: 07/08/2018] [Accepted: 07/13/2018] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Choline deprivation is a recognized experimental approach to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, while thioacetamide (TAA)-induced liver fibrosis resembles alcoholic liver fibrogenesis. In order to elucidate the effect of TAA on liver extracellular matrix composition under choline deprivation due to choline-deficient diet (CDD) administration, we evaluated the transcriptional and immunohistochemical (IHC) pattern of major hepatic matrix metalloproteinases (namely, MMP-2, -9) and their tissue inhibitors (TIMP-1, -2) in adult male albino Wistar rats at 30, 60 and 90 days. In the CDD+TAA group, IHC showed an early progressive increase in MMP-2 expression, while MMP-9 initially exhibited a significant increase followed by a gradual decrease; TIMP-1 and TIMP-2 IHC expressions showed gradual increase throughout the experiment. The MMPs-TIMPs regulation at the transcriptional level was found to be increased in all groups throughout the experiment. The increased MMP-2/TIMP-2 and suppressed MMP-9/TIMP-1 ratios in IHC and in real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) seemed to correlate with the degree of liver fibrosis. These results support the important role of MMPs and TIMPs in controlling the hepatic pathogenesis and shed more light on the recently described experimental approach to liver disease (steatohepatitis) under the impact of two insults (TAA and CDD).
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Affiliation(s)
- Hussam Al-Humadi
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.,Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Babylon, Babylon, Iraq
| | - Ahmed Alhumadi
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Rafal Al-Saigh
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.,Department of Clinical & Laboratory Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Babylon, Babylon, Iraq
| | - Athina Strilakou
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Andreas C Lazaris
- 1st Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Maria Gazouli
- Department of Basic Medical Science/Laboratory of Biology, School of Medicine, University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Charis Liapi
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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Liu XY, Fan YC, Gao S, Zhao J, Li F, Zhang J, Wang K. Hypermethylation of the N-Myc Downstream-Regulated Gene 2 Promoter in Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells is Associated with Liver Fibrosis in Chronic Hepatitis B. TOHOKU J EXP MED 2017; 241:155-163. [PMID: 28202850 DOI: 10.1620/tjem.241.155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
DNA methylation is a fundamental epigenetic modification to regulate gene expression. N-Myc downstream-regulated gene (NDRG) 2 is a cytoplasmic protein and participates in the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis. In this study, the mRNA expression and methylation status of NDRG2 was evaluated in patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB). The study included 143 CHB patients and 65 normal controls (NC). The mRNA expression of NDRG2 in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) was detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. The methylation status of the NDRG2 promoter in PBMCs was detected by methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction. The NDRG2 mRNA level was lower in the CHB group than in the NC group (p < 0.001). Methylation frequency of the NDRG2 promoter was significantly higher in CHB patients than in the NC group (52.44% vs. 26.15%, p < 0.001). Importantly, the relative expression levels of NDRG2 mRNA were significantly lower in the methylated group than in the unmethylated group in both CHB patients and NC (p < 0.001). Furthermore, a lower mRNA level and hypermethylation of NDRG2 were associated with liver fibrosis and inflammation grade in CHB. The aspartate aminotransferase-to-platelet ratio index (APRI) score is widely used to predict liver fibrosis. The mRNA expression levels and methylation status of NDRG2 showed a better score compared to APRI for discriminating the severity of liver fibrosis. In conclusion, hypermethylation of NDRG2 in PBMCs was correlated with decreased mRNA expression and with liver fibrosis. The methylation status of the NDRG2 promoter in PBMCs is a potential noninvasive biomarker to predict the severity of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin-Yuan Liu
- Department of Hepatology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University
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Li T, Niu L, Li M, Liu Y, Xu Z, Gao X, Liu D. Effects of small interfering RNA-mediated downregulation of the Krüppel-like factor 4 gene on collagen metabolism in human hepatic stellate cells. Mol Med Rep 2015; 12:3972-3978. [PMID: 26018498 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2015.3848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2014] [Accepted: 05/01/2015] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The nuclear transcription factor Krüppel-like factor 4 (KLF4) has an important role in cellular biological processes. However, the influence of KLF4 on collagen metabolism remains to be elucidated. In the present study, the effects and underlying mechanism of action of KLF4 on collagen metabolism was investigated in human hepatic stellate cells (HSC), by downregulating KLF4 expression using small interfering RNA (siRNA). The effects of KLF4 silencing by three predesigned siRNAs (siRNA1‑3) were evaluated using both reverse transcription‑quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‑qPCR) and western blotting in the human LX2 HSC line. The mRNA expression levels of KLF4 were decreased by ~34, 40, and 69% in the siRNA1, siRNA2, and siRNA3 groups, respectively, as compared with the control group. These results were concordant with the protein expression levels of KLF4, as determined by western blot analysis. In the siRNA3 group, the quantity of type Ⅰ and type III collagen, and the expression levels of collagen metabolism proteins including matrix metalloproteinase‑1 (MMP‑1) and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases‑1 (TIMP‑1), were determined using both RT‑qPCR and western blotting. Both the mRNA and protein expression levels of type I and type III collagen were significantly decreased in the siRNA3 group, as compared with the control group. The mRNA and protein expression levels of TIMP‑1 were also significantly reduced in the siRNA3‑treated cells, whereas the mRNA and protein expression levels of MMP‑1 were significantly upregulated. Furthermore, KLF4 gene silencing significantly decreased the expression levels of numerous cytokines, including transforming grow factor‑β1, tumor necrosis factor‑α, and interleukin‑1β. The results of the present study provide evidence of siRNA‑mediated silencing of KLF4 expression, which may promote extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation, and inhibition of ECM synthesis. Therefore, KLF4 may be a promising target for the development of novel antifibrotic therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Li
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000, P.R. China
| | - Lijuan Niu
- Department of Oncology, The Third Hospital of Shijiazhuang, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000, P.R. China
| | - Man Li
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000, P.R. China
| | - Ying Liu
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000, P.R. China
| | - Zhengrong Xu
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000, P.R. China
| | - Xia Gao
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000, P.R. China
| | - Dianwu Liu
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000, P.R. China
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Böhm M, Stegemann A. Bleomycin-induced fibrosis in MC1 signalling-deficient C57BL/6J-Mc1r(e/e) mice further supports a modulating role for melanocortins in collagen synthesis of the skin. Exp Dermatol 2015; 23:431-3. [PMID: 24698097 DOI: 10.1111/exd.12409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/31/2014] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The melanocortin-1 receptor (MC1 ) binds α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) with high affinity and has a physiological role in cutaneous melanin pigmentation. Previously, we reported that human dermal fibroblasts also express functional MC1 . α-MSH suppressed transforming growth factor-β1 - and bleomycin (BLM)-induced collagen synthesis in vitro and in vivo. Using MC1 signalling-deficient C57BL/6J-Mc1r(e/e) mice, we tested as to whether MC1 has a regulatory role on dermal collagen synthesis in the BLM model of scleroderma. Notably, mice with a C57BL/6J genetic background were previously shown to be BLM-non-susceptible. Interestingly, treatment of C57BL/6J-Mc1r(e/e) but not of C57BL/6J-wild-type mice with BLM increased cutaneous collagen type I content at RNA and protein level along with development of skin fibrosis. Cutaneous levels of connective tissue growth factor and monocyte chemotactic protein-1 were also increased in BLM-treated C57BL/6J-Mc1r(e/e) mice. Primary dermal fibroblasts from C57BL/6J-wt mice further expressed MC1 , suggesting that these cells are directly targeted by melanocortins to affect collagen production of the skin. Our findings support the concept that MC1 has an endogenous regulatory function in collagen synthesis and controls the extent of fibrotic stress responses of the skin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus Böhm
- Laboratory for Neuroendocrinology of the Skin and Interdisciplinary Endocrinology, Department of Dermatology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
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Logan GJ, de Alencastro G, Alexander IE, Yeoh GC. Exploiting the unique regenerative capacity of the liver to underpin cell and gene therapy strategies for genetic and acquired liver disease. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2014; 56:141-52. [PMID: 25449261 DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2014.10.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2014] [Revised: 10/15/2014] [Accepted: 10/21/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The number of genetic or acquired diseases of the liver treatable by organ transplantation is ever-increasing as transplantation techniques improve placing additional demands on an already limited organ supply. While cell and gene therapies are distinctly different modalities, they offer a synergistic alternative to organ transplant due to distinct architectural and physiological properties of the liver. The hepatic blood supply and fenestrated endothelial system affords relatively facile accessibility for cell and/or gene delivery. More importantly, however, the remarkable capacity of hepatocytes to proliferate and repopulate the liver creates opportunities for new treatments based on emerging technologies. This review will summarise current understanding of liver regeneration, describe clinical and experimental cell and gene therapeutic modalities and discuss critical challenges to translate these new technologies to wider clinical utility. This article is part of a Directed Issue entitled: "Regenerative Medicine: the challenge of translation".
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Affiliation(s)
- Grant J Logan
- Gene Therapy Research Unit of The Children's Medical Research Institute and The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Australia
| | - Gustavo de Alencastro
- Gene Therapy Research Unit of The Children's Medical Research Institute and The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Australia
| | - Ian E Alexander
- Gene Therapy Research Unit of The Children's Medical Research Institute and The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Australia; University of Sydney Discipline of Paediatrics and Child Health, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - George C Yeoh
- The Centre for Medical Research, Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia.
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Parajuli DR, Zhao YZ, Jin H, Chi JH, Li SY, Kim YC, Sohn DH, Lee SH. Anti-fibrotic effect of PF2401-SF, a standardized fraction of Salvia miltiorrhiza, in thioacetamide-induced experimental rats liver fibrosis. Arch Pharm Res 2014; 38:549-55. [PMID: 25005065 DOI: 10.1007/s12272-014-0425-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2013] [Accepted: 06/11/2014] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
We previously reported the in vitro and in vivo hepatoprotective and anti-fibrotic effects of PF2401-SF, a standardized fraction of Salvia miltiorrhiza, against acute and subacute liver injury. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of PF2401-SF on liver fibrosis induced by thioacetamide (TAA), a chronic liver injury model (12 weeks) that closely resembles fibrosis and cirrhosis in humans. Hepatoprotective activity was indicated by low serum levels of the markers aspartate amino transferase and alanine amino transferase .In addition, compared to the TAA-group livers, the PF2401-SF-treated liver tissues showed no fibrous tissue deposition in the portal areas, hepatocyte morphology more closely resembling normal tissue morphology, and significantly reduced collagen deposition. Furthermore, downregulation of collagen 1(α) and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP)1 protein and mRNA expression also supports PF2401-SF's anti-fibrotic effect. We also observed reduced expression of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), an important marker of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) activation. From these results, we conclude that PF2401-SF's anti-fibrotic mechanism in the TAA model involves reduced HSC activation, and may be mediated by downregulation of central markers of fibrosis, including collagen 1(α), TIMP1, and α-SMA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daya Ram Parajuli
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Research and Development, College of Pharmacy, Wonkwang University, Iksan, Jeonbuk, 570-749, Republic of Korea
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9
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Zhong Y, Xu J, Deng M, Liu B, Zhang F, Yuan Y, Yang X, Xu R. Generation of a human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cell line expressing and secreting high levels of bioactive -melanocyte-stimulating hormone. J Biochem 2013; 153:371-379. [DOI: 10.1093/jb/mvt003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/30/2023] Open
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10
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Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis (HF) is a progressive condition with serious clinical complications arising from abnormal proliferation and amassing of tough fibrous scar tissue. This defiance of collagen fibers becomes fatal due to ultimate failure of liver functions. Participation of various cell types, interlinked cellular events, and large number of mediator molecules make the fibrotic process enormously complex and dynamic. However, with better appreciation of underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms of fibrosis, the assumption that HF cannot be cured is gradually changing. Recent findings have underlined the therapeutic potential of a number of synthetic compounds as well as plant derivatives for cessation or even the reversal of the processes that transforms the liver into fibrotic tissue. It is expected that future inputs will provide a conceptual framework to develop more specific strategies that would facilitate the assessment of risk factors, shortlist early diagnosis biomarkers, and eventually guide development of effective therapeutic alternatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Areeba Ahmad
- Department of Zoology, Biochemical and Clinical Genetics Research Laboratory, Section of Genetics, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, India
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11
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Hen G, Yosefi S, Shinder D, Or A, Mygdal S, Condiotti R, Galun E, Bor A, Sela-Donenfeld D, Friedman-Einat M. Gene transfer to chicks using lentiviral vectors administered via the embryonic chorioallantoic membrane. PLoS One 2012; 7:e36531. [PMID: 22606269 PMCID: PMC3350527 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0036531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2011] [Accepted: 04/03/2012] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The lack of affordable techniques for gene transfer in birds has inhibited the advancement of molecular studies in avian species. Here we demonstrate a new approach for introducing genes into chicken somatic tissues by administration of a lentiviral vector, derived from the feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), into the chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) of chick embryos on embryonic day 11. The FIV-derived vectors carried yellow fluorescent protein (YFP) or recombinant alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) genes, driven by the cytomegalovirus (CMV) promoter. Transgene expression, detected in chicks 2 days after hatch by quantitative real-time PCR, was mostly observed in the liver and spleen. Lower expression levels were also detected in the brain, kidney, heart and breast muscle. Immunofluorescence and flow cytometry analyses confirmed transgene expression in chick tissues at the protein level, demonstrating a transduction efficiency of ∼0.46% of liver cells. Integration of the viral vector into the chicken genome was demonstrated using genomic repetitive (CR1)-PCR amplification. Viability and stability of the transduced cells was confirmed using terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase (dUTP) nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay, immunostaining with anti-proliferating cell nuclear antigen (anti-PCNA), and detection of transgene expression 51 days post transduction. Our approach led to only 9% drop in hatching efficiency compared to non-injected embryos, and all of the hatched chicks expressed the transgenes. We suggest that the transduction efficiency of FIV vectors combined with the accessibility of the CAM vasculature as a delivery route comprise a new powerful and practical approach for gene delivery into somatic tissues of chickens. Most relevant is the efficient transduction of the liver, which specializes in the production and secretion of proteins, thereby providing an optimal target for prolonged study of secreted hormones and peptides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gideon Hen
- Ministry of Agriculture, Volcani Center, Bet-Dagan, Israel
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food & Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Sara Yosefi
- Ministry of Agriculture, Volcani Center, Bet-Dagan, Israel
| | - Dmitry Shinder
- Ministry of Agriculture, Volcani Center, Bet-Dagan, Israel
| | - Adi Or
- Ministry of Agriculture, Volcani Center, Bet-Dagan, Israel
| | - Sivan Mygdal
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food & Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Reba Condiotti
- Goldyne Savad Institute of Gene Therapy, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Eithan Galun
- Goldyne Savad Institute of Gene Therapy, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Amir Bor
- Ministry of Agriculture, Volcani Center, Bet-Dagan, Israel
| | - Dalit Sela-Donenfeld
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food & Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel
- * E-mail: (DSD); (MFE)
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12
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Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis (HF) is a progressive condition with serious clinical complications arising from abnormal proliferation and amassing of tough fibrous scar tissue. This defiance of collagen fibers becomes fatal due to ultimate failure of liver functions. Participation of various cell types, interlinked cellular events, and large number of mediator molecules make the fibrotic process enormously complex and dynamic. However, with better appreciation of underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms of fibrosis, the assumption that HF cannot be cured is gradually changing. Recent findings have underlined the therapeutic potential of a number of synthetic compounds as well as plant derivatives for cessation or even the reversal of the processes that transforms the liver into fibrotic tissue. It is expected that future inputs will provide a conceptual framework to develop more specific strategies that would facilitate the assessment of risk factors, shortlist early diagnosis biomarkers, and eventually guide development of effective therapeutic alternatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Areeba Ahmad
- Department of Zoology, Biochemical and Clinical Genetics Research Laboratory, Section of Genetics, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Riaz Ahmad
- Department of Zoology, Biochemical and Clinical Genetics Research Laboratory, Section of Genetics, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, India,Address for correspondence: Dr. Riaz Ahmad, Department of Zoology, Biochemical and Clinical Genetics Research Laboratory, Section of Genetics, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh- 202 002, Uttar Pradesh, India. E-mail:
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Montero-Melendez T, Patel HB, Seed M, Nielsen S, Jonassen TEN, Perretti M. The melanocortin agonist AP214 exerts anti-inflammatory and proresolving properties. Am J Pathol 2011; 179:259-69. [PMID: 21703408 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2011.03.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2010] [Revised: 02/23/2011] [Accepted: 03/21/2011] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Synthetic and natural melanocortin (MC) peptides afford inhibitory properties in inflammation and tissue injury, but characterization of receptor involvement is still elusive. We used the agonist AP214 to test MC-dependent anti-inflammatory effects. In zymosan peritonitis, treatment of mice with AP214 (400 to 800 μg/kg) inhibited cell infiltration, an effect retained in MC receptor type 1, or MC(1), mutant mice but lost in MC(3) null mice. In vitro, cytokine release from zymosan-stimulated macrophages was affected by AP214, with approximately 80%, 30%, and 40% reduction in IL-1β, tumor necrosis factor-α, and IL-6, respectively. Inhibition of IL-1β release was retained in MC(1) mutant cells but was lost in MC(3) null cells. Furthermore, AP214 augmented uptake of zymosan particles and human apoptotic neutrophils by wild-type macrophages: this proresolving property was lost in MC(3) null macrophages. AP214 displayed its pro-efferocytotic effect also in vivo. Finally, in a model of inflammatory arthritis, AP214 evoked significant reductions in the clinical score. These results indicate that AP214 elicits anti-inflammatory responses, with a preferential effect on IL-1β release. Furthermore, we describe for the first time a positive modulation of an MC agonist on the process of efferocytosis. In all cases, endogenous MC(3) is the receptor that mediates these novel properties of AP214. These findings might clarify the tissue-protective properties of AP214 in clinical settings and may open further development for novel MC agonists.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Apoptosis/drug effects
- Arthritis, Experimental/drug therapy
- Arthritis, Experimental/metabolism
- Arthritis, Experimental/pathology
- Blotting, Western
- Cytokines/genetics
- Cytokines/metabolism
- Disease Models, Animal
- Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay
- Humans
- Inflammation/drug therapy
- Inflammation/metabolism
- Inflammation/pathology
- Interleukin-1beta/genetics
- Interleukin-1beta/metabolism
- Interleukin-6/genetics
- Interleukin-6/metabolism
- Macrophages/cytology
- Macrophages/drug effects
- Macrophages/metabolism
- Macrophages, Peritoneal/cytology
- Macrophages, Peritoneal/drug effects
- Macrophages, Peritoneal/metabolism
- Male
- Melanocortins/agonists
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Mice, Knockout
- Mutation/genetics
- Neutrophils/cytology
- Neutrophils/drug effects
- Neutrophils/metabolism
- Peritonitis/drug therapy
- Peritonitis/metabolism
- Peritonitis/pathology
- Phagocytosis
- RNA, Messenger/genetics
- Receptor, Melanocortin, Type 1/physiology
- Receptor, Melanocortin, Type 3/physiology
- Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction
- Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha/genetics
- Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha/metabolism
- alpha-MSH/analogs & derivatives
- alpha-MSH/pharmacology
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Affiliation(s)
- Trinidad Montero-Melendez
- The William Harvey Research Institute, Barts, and The London School of Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
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Ohyama T, Yamazaki Y, Sato K, Horiguchi N, Ichikawa T, Kakizaki S, Takagi H, Mori M. Transforming growth factor-α attenuates hepatic fibrosis: possible involvement of matrix metalloproteinase-1. Liver Int 2011; 31:572-84. [PMID: 21382168 DOI: 10.1111/j.1478-3231.2011.02475.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The effect of transforming growth factor (TGF)-α on fibrosis varies between cell types and the role of TGF-α in hepatic fibrosis has not been fully elucidated. METHODS We examined the effect of TGF-α on hepatic fibrosis using TGF-α-expressing transgenic mice fed a methionine- and choline-deficient (MCD) diet and human hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) line LX-2, rat and human primary HSCs. RESULTS Although the expression levels of the tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-1 and α1(I) collagen mRNA were unchanged, feeding the TGF-α transgenic mice the MCD diet resulted in greater expression of the murine functional analogue of matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1), MMP-13 mRNA and protein and attenuated hepatic fibrosis compared with wild-type mice. TGF-α overexpression did not affect the extent of the steatosis, oxidative stress and hepatic inflammation in the MCD diet-fed mice. The effect of TGF-α on the fibrogenic and anti-fibrogenic gene expressions varied between cell types in vitro. TGF-α increased MMP-1 mRNA expressions that were completely blocked by gefitinib in LX-2 cells. The extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) 1/2, c-Jun N-terminal kinase and p38 pathways were involved in MMP-1 mRNA expression in LX-2 cells. Although TGF-α increased the phosphorylation of p38, the p38 inhibitor activated the RAS-ERK pathway and increased TGF-α-induced MMP-1 mRNA expression, which suggested that there may be a crosstalk between the RAS-ERK and the p38 pathways in LX-2 cells. CONCLUSIONS The TGF-α may attenuate hepatic fibrosis in part because of upregulation of the expression of MMP-1. The balance between fibrogenic and anti-fibrogenic gene expression and between the activity of the RAS-ERK and the p38 pathways may be crucial for the fibrotic process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatsuya Ohyama
- Department of Medicine and Molecular Science, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Gunma, Japan
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Park SY, Shin HW, Lee KB, Lee MJ, Jang JJ. Differential expression of matrix metalloproteinases and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases in thioacetamide-induced chronic liver injury. J Korean Med Sci 2010; 25:570-6. [PMID: 20358000 PMCID: PMC2844613 DOI: 10.3346/jkms.2010.25.4.570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2009] [Accepted: 07/15/2009] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatic fibrogenesis, a complex process that involves a marked accumulation of extracellular matrix components, activation of cells capable of producing matrix materials, cytokine release, and tissue remodeling, is regulated by matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs). The MMP-TIMP balance can regulate liver fibrogenesis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the expression patterns of MMPs and TIMPs during thioacetamide (TAA)-induced liver fibrogenesis. Chronic liver injury was induced with TAA (200 mg/kg i.p.) for 4 or 7 weeks in male Sprague-Dawley rats. Hepatic injury and fibrosis were assessed by hematoxylin-eosin (H&E) staining, and collagen deposition was confirmed by Sirius Red staining. The level of hepatic injury was quantified by serological analysis. The transcriptional and translational levels of alpha-smooth muscle actin (alpha-SMA), MMPs, and TIMPs in the liver were measured by Western blotting, RT-PCR, and immunohistochemistry. MMP, TIMP, and alpha-SMA were observed along fibrotic septa and portal spaces around the lobules. TAA treatment increased transcription of both MMPs and TIMPs, but only TIMPs showed increased translation. The dominant expression of TIMPs may regulate the function of MMPs to maintain liver fibrosis induced by TAA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soo Young Park
- Department of Pathology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hye Won Shin
- Department of Pathology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kyoung Bun Lee
- Department of Pathology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Min-Jae Lee
- Department of Veterinary Lab Animal Medicine & Science, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Korea
| | - Ja-June Jang
- Department of Pathology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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Blagaić V, Houra K, Turčić P, Štambuk N, Konjevoda P, Boban-Blagaić A, Kelava T, Kos M, Aralica G, Čulo F. The influence of alpha-, beta-, and gamma-melanocyte stimulating hormone on acetaminophen induced liver lesions in male CBA mice. Molecules 2010; 15:1232-41. [PMID: 20335976 PMCID: PMC6257183 DOI: 10.3390/molecules15031232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2010] [Revised: 03/02/2010] [Accepted: 03/03/2010] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Research over the past decade has indicated that melanocortin peptides are potent inhibitors of inflammation and a promising source of new anti-inflammatory and cytoprotective therapies. The purpose of the present paper is to compare protective effects of α-, β-, and γ-melanocyte stimulating hormone on acetaminophen induced liver lesions in male CBA mice. Acetaminophen was applied intragastrically in a dose of 150 mg/kg, and tested substances were applied intraperitoneally 1 hour before acetaminophen. Mice were sacrificed after 24 hours and intensity of liver injury was estimated by measurement of plasma transaminase activity (AST and ALT) and histopathological grading of lesions. It was found that α-, β-, and γ-MSH decrease intensity of lesions by both criteria in a dose-dependent manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vladimir Blagaić
- University Hospital “Sveti Duh”, Sveti Duh 64, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; E-Mail: (V.B.)
| | - Karlo Houra
- University Hospital “Sestre milosrdnice”, Vinogradska cesta 29, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; E-Mails: (K.H.); (M.K.)
| | - Petra Turčić
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, University of Zagreb, Domagojeva 2, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; E-Mail: (P.T.)
| | - Nikola Štambuk
- Ruđer Bošković Institute, Bijenička cesta 54, 10002 Zagreb, Croatia
- Authors to whom correspondence should be addressed; E-Mails: (N.Š.); (P.K.)
| | - Paško Konjevoda
- Ruđer Bošković Institute, Bijenička cesta 54, 10002 Zagreb, Croatia
- Authors to whom correspondence should be addressed; E-Mails: (N.Š.); (P.K.)
| | - Alenka Boban-Blagaić
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Šalata 11, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; E-Mail: (A.B.-B.)
| | - Tomislav Kelava
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; E-Mails: (T.K.); (F.Č.)
| | - Marina Kos
- University Hospital “Sestre milosrdnice”, Vinogradska cesta 29, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; E-Mails: (K.H.); (M.K.)
| | - Gorana Aralica
- University Hospital Dubrava, Avenija Gojka Šuška 6, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; E-Mail: (G.A.)
| | - Filip Čulo
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; E-Mails: (T.K.); (F.Č.)
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Abstract
In liver tissue matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their specific inhibitors (tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases, TIMPs) play a pivotal role in both, fibrogenesis and fibrolysis. The current knowledge of the pathophysiology of liver fibrogenesis with special emphasis on MMPs and TIMPs is presented. A systematic literature search was conducted. All experimental models of liver fibrosis that evaluated a defined anti-fibrotic intervention in vivo or in vitro considering MMPs and TIMPs were selected. The methodological quality of all these publications has been critically appraised using an objective scoring system and the content has been summarized in a table.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie Hemmann
- Department of Medicine II, Gastroenterology, University Hospital Giessen and Marburg GmbH, Paul-Meimberg-Str. 5, 35392 Giessen, Germany
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Affiliation(s)
- Loree C Heller
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of South Florida College of Medicine, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
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Han D, Tian Y, Zhang M, Zhou Z, Lu J. Prevention and treatment of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis with recombinant adeno-associated virus-mediated α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone-transduced PLP139-151-specific T cells. Gene Ther 2006; 14:383-95. [PMID: 17066098 DOI: 10.1038/sj.gt.3302862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the immunomodulatory effects and mechanism of action of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH) gene modified proteolipid protein (PLP) 139-151-specific T cells (T(PLP-alpha-MSH)) in the SJL mouse model of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). PLP139-151-specific T cells (T(PLP) cells) were transduced with a recombinant adeno-associated virus 2 (rAAV2) encoding alpha-MSH. After activation with PLP139-151 in vitro, T(PLP-alpha-MSH) cells secreted high levels of alpha-MSH and also demonstrated an altered Th1-like cytokine pattern as well as a high frequency of CD4(+)CD25(+)Treg cells. Transfer studies showed that T(PLP-alpha-MSH) cells could suppress the induction of adoptive transfer EAE. More importantly, our studies demonstrated that T(PLP-alpha-MSH) cells had preventive and therapeutic effect on active relapse-remitting EAE (REAE) in an antigen-inducible manner. Suppression of REAE by T(PLP-alpha-MSH) cells was associated with a general reduction of inflammatory central nervous system (CNS) infiltrates, a pronounced decrease in Th1 cytokines and chemokines expression and an increase in Th2 cytokines. These data strongly suggested that local delivery of alpha-MSH by rAAV2-mediated alpha-MSH-transduced PLP139-151-specific T cells (T(PLP-alpha-MSH)) would be a desirable new approach to the treatment of autoimmune disease in the CNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Han
- Institute of Immunology, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
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