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Liang CC, Huang WC, Shaw SW, Huang YH, Lee TH. Human amniotic fluid stem cells can alleviate detrusor dysfunction caused by bladder outlet obstruction in rats. Sci Rep 2022; 12:6679. [PMID: 35461349 PMCID: PMC9035144 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-10640-y] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study examined whether bladder detrusor dysfunction due to partial bladder outlet obstruction (pBOO) could be improved after the treatment of human amniotic fluid stem cells (hAFSCs). 72 female rats were grouped into sham operation, pBOO, and pBOO with hAFSCs treatment (pBOO + hAFSCs) for in vitro and in vivo studies. Bladder weight, bladder wall thickness, the ratio of collagen to smooth muscle and the levels of positive CD11b/c and HIS48 cells was significantly increased after pBOO but improved after hAFSCs treatment. Cystometries showed impaired bladder function after pBOO. Protein and mRNA levels of hypoxia inducible factor-1α, CCL2, interleukin-1β, transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), α-smooth muscle actin, collagen I and collagen III were increased at 2 and/or 6 weeks, but proteins and mRNA expressions of protein gene product 9.5 were decreased at 2 and 6 weeks after pBOO. These abnormalities were improved after hAFSCs treatment. The expressions of TGF-β1 and CTGF in cultured detrusor cells of pBOO rats were increased but were improved after hAFSCs treatment. The present results showed hAFSCs treatment could improve bladder detrusor dysfunction in pBOO rats, which may be related to the reduction of inflammatory and pro-fibrotic markers in detrusor muscle cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ching-Chung Liang
- Female Urology Section, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital Linkou Medical Center, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Chu Huang
- Division of Urogynecology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Nursing, Mackay Junior College of Medicine, Nursing, and Management, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Steven W Shaw
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,Division of Obstetrics, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Prenatal Cell and Gene Therapy Group, Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Yung-Hsin Huang
- Female Urology Section, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital Linkou Medical Center, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Tsong-Hai Lee
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan. .,Stroke Center and Department of Neurology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Medical Center, No. 5, Fu-Hsing Street, Kweishan, 33333, Taoyuan, Taiwan.
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2
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Moon S, Hwang S, Kim B, Lee S, Kim H, Lee G, Hong K, Song H, Choi Y. Hippo Signaling in the Endometrium. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23073852. [PMID: 35409214 PMCID: PMC8998929 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Revised: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The uterus is essential for embryo implantation and fetal development. During the estrous cycle, the uterine endometrium undergoes dramatic remodeling to prepare for pregnancy. Angiogenesis is an essential biological process in endometrial remodeling. Steroid hormones regulate the series of events that occur during such remodeling. Researchers have investigated the potential factors, including angiofactors, involved in endometrial remodeling. The Hippo signaling pathway discovered in the 21st century, plays important roles in various cellular functions, including cell proliferation and cell death. However, its role in the endometrium remains unclear. In this review, we describe the female reproductive system and its association with the Hippo signaling pathway, as well as novel Hippo pathway genes and potential target genes.
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3
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Zaykov V, Chaqour B. The CCN2/CTGF interactome: an approach to understanding the versatility of CCN2/CTGF molecular activities. J Cell Commun Signal 2021; 15:567-580. [PMID: 34613590 DOI: 10.1007/s12079-021-00650-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [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: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Cellular communication network 2 (CCN2), also known as connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) regulates diverse cellular processes, some at odds with others, including adhesion, proliferation, apoptosis, and extracellular matrix (ECM) protein synthesis. Although a cause-and-effect relationship between CCN2/CTGF expression and local fibrotic reactions has initially been established, CCN2/CTGF manifests cell-, tissue-, and context-specific functions and differentially affects developmental and pathological processes ranging from progenitor cell fate decisions and angiogenesis to inflammation and tumorigenesis. CCN2/CTGF multimodular structure, binding to and activation or inhibition of multiple cell surface receptors, growth factors and ECM proteins, and susceptibility for proteolytic cleavage highlight the complexity to CCN2/CTGF biochemical attributes. CCN2/CTGF expression and dosage in the local environment affects a defined community of its interacting partners, and this results in sequestration of growth factors, interference with or potentiation of ligand-receptor binding, cellular internalization of CCN2/CTGF, inhibition or activation of proteases, and generation of CCN2/CTGF degradome products that add molecular diversity and expand the repertoire of functional modules in the cells and their microenvironment. Through these interactions, different intracellular signals and cellular responses are elicited culminating into physiological or pathological reactions. Thus, the CCN2/CTGF interactome is a defining factor of its tissue- and context-specific effects. Mapping of new CCN2/CTGF binding partners might shed light on yet unknown roles of CCN2/CTGF and provide a solid basis for tissue-specific targeting this molecule or its interacting partners in a therapeutic context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viktor Zaykov
- Department of Cell Biology, State University of New York (SUNY), Downstate Health Science University, 450 Clarkson Avenue, MSC 5, Brooklyn, NY, 11203, USA
| | - Brahim Chaqour
- Department of Cell Biology, State University of New York (SUNY), Downstate Health Science University, 450 Clarkson Avenue, MSC 5, Brooklyn, NY, 11203, USA. .,Department of Ophthalmology, State University of New York (SUNY), Downstate Health Science University, 450 Clarkson Avenue, MSC 5, Brooklyn, NY, 11203, USA.
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4
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Zhao H, Duan L. Cyclic adenosine monophosphate regulates connective tissue growth factor expression in myocardial fibrosis after myocardial infarction. J Int Med Res 2021; 49:3000605211015586. [PMID: 34082585 PMCID: PMC8182188 DOI: 10.1177/03000605211015586] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective This study aimed to investigate regulation of the cyclic adenosine
monophosphate (cAMP) signaling pathway on connective tissue
growth factor (CTGF) during myocardial fibrosis (MF) in mice
after myocardial infarction (MI). Methods An MI mouse model was established and cardiac function indices were
detected by ultrasound. Quantitative reverse transcription
polymerase chain reaction and western blotting were used to
determine CTGF and transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1)
cardiac expression. Mouse cardiac fibroblasts (MCFs) were used
to study the mechanism of MF after MI. Results Cardiac function indices were lower after MI. Cardiac function
indices were better in the MI + meglumine adenosine
cyclophosphate (MAC) group than in the MI group, and CTGF
expression in the MI + MAC group was downregulated. TGF-β1
expression was not different among the MI groups. Forskolin
increased intracellular cAMP levels and inhibited CTGF
expression in MCFs. Expression of p44/42 mitogen-activated
protein kinase (MAPK) was significantly lower in the
TGF-β1 + forskolin group than in the TGF-β1 group, while protein
kinase A was significantly upregulated. CTGF expression was
significantly lower in the TGF-β1 + forskolin + PD98509 group
than in the TGF-β1 + forskolin group. Conclusions This study shows that cAMP upregulates protein kinase A expression
through the p44/42MAPK signaling pathway and decreases
p44/42MAPK phosphorylation levels, inhibiting CTGF
expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huan Zhao
- Department of Cardiac Function, The First Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, P.R. China
| | - Linan Duan
- The First Department of Cardiology, The First Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, P.R. China
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5
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Lane BS, Heller B, Hollenberg MD, Wells CD. The RGS-RhoGEFs control the amplitude of YAP1 activation by serum. Sci Rep 2021; 11:2348. [PMID: 33504879 PMCID: PMC7841162 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-82027-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2019] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Actin-dependent mechanisms drive the nuclear translocation of Yap1 to enable its co-activation of transcription factors that induce pro-growth and survival programs. While Rho GTPases are necessary for the nuclear import of YAP1, the relevant Guanine Exchange Factors (GEFs) and GTPase Activating Proteins (GAPs) that connect this process to upstream signaling are not well defined. To this end, we measured the impact of expressing sixty-seven RhoGEFs and RhoGAPs on the YAP1 dependent activity of a TEAD element transcriptional reporter. Robust effects by all three members of the regulator of G-protein signaling (RGS) domain containing RhoGEFs (ArhGEF1, ArhGEF11 and ArhGEF12) prompted studies relating their known roles in serum signaling onto the regulation of Yap1. Under all conditions examined, ArhGEF12 preferentially mediated the activation of YAP1/TEAD by serum versus ArhGEF1 or ArhGEF11. Conversely, ArhGEF1 in multiple contexts inhibited both basal and serum elevated YAP1 activity through its GAP activity for Gα13. The sensitivity of such inhibition to cellular density and to low states of serum signaling supports that ArhGEF1 is a context dependent regulator of YAP1. Taken together, the relative activities of the RGS-RhoGEFs were found to dictate the degree to which serum signaling promotes YAP1 activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandon S Lane
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA
| | - Brigitte Heller
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA
| | - Morley D Hollenberg
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Clark D Wells
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA. .,Indiana University School of Medicine, John D. Van Nuys Medical Science Building. 635 Barnhill Dr., Rm. 4079A, Indianapolis, IN, USA.
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6
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Leguit RJ, Raymakers RAP, Hebeda KM, Goldschmeding R. CCN2 (Cellular Communication Network factor 2) in the bone marrow microenvironment, normal and malignant hematopoiesis. J Cell Commun Signal 2021; 15:25-56. [PMID: 33428075 PMCID: PMC7798015 DOI: 10.1007/s12079-020-00602-2] [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: 04/12/2020] [Accepted: 12/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
CCN2, formerly termed Connective Tissue Growth Factor, is a protein belonging to the Cellular Communication Network (CCN)-family of secreted extracellular matrix-associated proteins. As a matricellular protein it is mainly considered to be active as a modifier of signaling activity of several different signaling pathways and as an orchestrator of their cross-talk. Furthermore, CCN2 and its fragments have been implicated in the regulation of a multitude of biological processes, including cell proliferation, differentiation, adhesion, migration, cell survival, apoptosis and the production of extracellular matrix products, as well as in more complex processes such as embryonic development, angiogenesis, chondrogenesis, osteogenesis, fibrosis, mechanotransduction and inflammation. Its function is complex and context dependent, depending on cell type, state of differentiation and microenvironmental context. CCN2 plays a role in many diseases, especially those associated with fibrosis, but has also been implicated in many different forms of cancer. In the bone marrow (BM), CCN2 is highly expressed in mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs). CCN2 is important for MSC function, supporting its proliferation, migration and differentiation. In addition, stromal CCN2 supports the maintenance and longtime survival of hematopoietic stem cells, and in the presence of interleukin 7, stimulates the differentiation of pro-B lymphocytes into pre-B lymphocytes. Overexpression of CCN2 is seen in the majority of B-acute lymphoblastic leukemias, especially in certain cytogenetic subgroups associated with poor outcome. In acute myeloid leukemia, CCN2 expression is increased in MSCs, which has been associated with leukemic engraftment in vivo. In this review, the complex function of CCN2 in the BM microenvironment and in normal as well as malignant hematopoiesis is discussed. In addition, an overview is given of data on the remaining CCN family members regarding normal and malignant hematopoiesis, having many similarities and some differences in their function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roos J Leguit
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, H04-312, P.O. Box 85500, 3508 GA, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | - Reinier A P Raymakers
- Department of Hematology, UMCU Cancer Center, Heidelberglaan 100 B02.226, 3584 CX, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Konnie M Hebeda
- Department of Pathology, Radboud University Medical Centre, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Roel Goldschmeding
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Centre Utrecht, P.O. Box 85500, 3508 GA, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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7
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Mashimo K, Ohno Y. Cultured Neonatal Rat Cardiomyocytes Continue Beating Through Upregulation of CTGF Gene Expression. J NIPPON MED SCH 2020; 87:268-276. [PMID: 33311008 DOI: 10.1272/jnms.jnms.2020_87-505] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Some cultured neonatal rat cardiomyocytes continue spontaneous beating even in serum-free medium. The present study explored the cause and genes responsible for this phenomenon. METHODS Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) software was used to analyze fold changes in gene expression in beating neonatal rat cardiomyocytes, as compared with non-beating cardiomyocytes, which were obtained from DNA microarray data of total RNA extracts of cardiomyocytes. To confirm the involvement of the 8 genes selected by IPA prediction, cellular protein abundances were determined by Western blot. The gene expression of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) was substantially higher in beating cardiomyocytes than in non-beating cardiomyocytes; thus, CTGF protein content released from cardiomyocytes into the culture medium was examined. RESULTS IPA showed that the "Apelin Cardiac Fibroblast Signaling Pathway" was significantly inhibited and that microtubule dynamics and cytoskeleton organization were significantly activated. Each fluctuation in the cellular abundances of the 8 proteins in beating cardiomyocytes, as compared with non-beating cardiomyocytes, was primarily in the same direction as that of gene expression. However, the cellular CTGF protein abundance as well as CTGF content released into the medium did not substantially differ between beating and non-beating cardiomyocytes. CONCLUSIONS The present results suggest that the large increase in CTGF gene expression in beating cardiomyocytes is not a cause but a result of beating, which may provide a putative pathway for controlling beating. Beating is sustained by developed cardiomyofibrils and directly upregulates CTGF gene expression, which is not followed by CTGF protein synthesis.
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8
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Chaqour B, Karrasch C. Eyeing the Extracellular Matrix in Vascular Development and Microvascular Diseases and Bridging the Divide between Vascular Mechanics and Function. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E3487. [PMID: 32429045 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21103487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2020] [Revised: 05/12/2020] [Accepted: 05/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The extracellular matrix (ECM) is critical in all aspects of vascular development and health: supporting cell anchorage, providing structure, organization and mechanical stability, and serving as a sink for growth factors and sustained survival signals. Abnormal changes in ECM protein expression, organization, and/or properties, and the ensuing changes in vascular compliance affect vasodilator responses, microvascular pressure transmission, and collateral perfusion. The changes in microvascular compliance are independent factors initiating, driving, and/or exacerbating a plethora of microvascular diseases of the eye including diabetic retinopathy (DR) and vitreoretinopathy, retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD), and neovascular glaucoma. Congruently, one of the major challenges with most vascular regenerative therapies utilizing localized growth factor, endothelial progenitor, or genetically engineered cell delivery, is the regeneration of blood vessels with physiological compliance properties. Interestingly, vascular cells sense physical forces, including the stiffness of their ECM, through mechanosensitive integrins, their associated proteins and the actomyosin cytoskeleton, which generates biochemical signals that culminate in a rapid expression of matricellular proteins such as cellular communication network 1 (CCN1) and CCN2 (aka connective tissue growth factor or CTGF). Loss or gain of function of these proteins alters genetic programs of cell growth, ECM biosynthesis, and intercellular signaling, that culminate in changes in cell behavior, polarization, and barrier function. In particular, the function of the matricellular protein CCN2/CTGF is critical during retinal vessel development and regeneration wherein new blood vessels form and invest a preformed avascular neural retina following putative gradients of matrix stiffness. These observations underscore the need for further in-depth characterization of the ECM-derived cues that dictate structural and functional properties of the microvasculature, along with the development of new therapeutic strategies addressing the ECM-dependent regulation of pathophysiological stiffening of blood vessels in ischemic retinopathies.
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9
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Chaqour B. Caught between a "Rho" and a hard place: are CCN1/CYR61 and CCN2/CTGF the arbiters of microvascular stiffness? J Cell Commun Signal 2019; 14:21-29. [PMID: 31376071 DOI: 10.1007/s12079-019-00529-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [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: 07/11/2019] [Accepted: 07/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a deformable dynamic structure that dictates the behavior, function and integrity of blood vessels. The composition, density, chemistry and architecture of major globular and fibrillar proteins of the matrisome regulate the mechanical properties of the vasculature (i.e., stiffness/compliance). ECM proteins are linked via integrins to a protein adhesome directly connected to the actin cytoskeleton and various downstream signaling pathways that enable the cells to respond to external stimuli in a coordinated manner and maintain optimal tissue stiffness. However, cardiovascular risk factors such as diabetes, dyslipidemia, hypertension, ischemia and aging compromise the mechanical balance of the vascular wall. Stiffening of large blood vessels is associated with well-known qualitative and quantitative changes of fibrillar and fibrous macromolecules of the vascular matrisome. However, the mechanical properties of the thin-walled microvasculature are essentially defined by components of the subendothelial matrix. Cellular communication network (CCN) 1 and 2 proteins (aka Cyr61 and CTGF, respectively) of the CCN protein family localize in and act on the pericellular matrix of microvessels and constitute primary candidate markers and regulators of microvascular compliance. CCN1 and CCN2 bind various integrin and non-integrin receptors and initiate signaling pathways that regulate connective tissue remodeling and response to injury, the associated mechanoresponse of vascular cells, and the subsequent inflammatory response. The CCN1 and CCN2 genes are themselves responsive to mechanical stimuli in vascular cells, wherein mechanotransduction signaling converges into the common Rho GTPase pathway, which promotes actomyosin-based contractility and cellular stiffening. However, CCN1 and CCN2 each exhibit unique functional attributes in these processes. A better understanding of their synergistic or antagonistic effects on the maintenance (or loss) of microvascular compliance in physiological and pathological situations will assist more broadly based studies of their functional properties and translational value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brahim Chaqour
- Department of Cell Biology and Department of Ophthalmology, State University of New York - SUNY Downstate Medical Center, 450 Clarkson Avenue, MSC 5, Brooklyn, NY, 11203, USA.
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10
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Adedeji TG, Olapade-Olaopa EO. Dietary macronutrient content affects inflammatory and fibrotic factors in normal and obstructed bladders. Life Sci 2018; 210:192-200. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2018.08.069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2018] [Revised: 08/23/2018] [Accepted: 08/30/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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11
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Wang J, Faiz A, Ge Q, Vermeulen CJ, Van der Velden J, Snibson KJ, van de Velde R, Sawant S, Xenaki D, Oliver B, Timens W, Ten Hacken N, van den Berge M, James A, Elliot JG, Dong L, Burgess JK, Ashton AW. Unique mechanisms of connective tissue growth factor regulation in airway smooth muscle in asthma: Relationship with airway remodelling. J Cell Mol Med 2018. [PMID: 29516637 PMCID: PMC5908101 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.13576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Neovascularization, increased basal membrane thickness and increased airway smooth muscle (ASM) bulk are hallmarks of airway remodelling in asthma. In this study, we examined connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) dysregulation in human lung tissue and animal models of allergic airway disease. Immunohistochemistry revealed that ASM cells from patients with severe asthma (A) exhibited high expression of CTGF, compared to mild and non‐asthmatic (NA) tissues. This finding was replicated in a sheep model of allergic airways disease. In vitro, transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β increased CTGF expression both in NA‐ and A‐ASM cells but the expression was higher in A‐ASM at both the mRNA and protein level as assessed by PCR and Western blot. Transfection of CTGF promoter‐luciferase reporter constructs into NA‐ and A‐ASM cells indicated that no region of the CTGF promoter (−1500 to +200 bp) displayed enhanced activity in the presence of TGF‐β. However, in silico analysis of the CTGF promoter suggested that distant transcription factor binding sites may influence CTGF promoter activation by TGF‐β in ASM cells. The discord between promoter activity and mRNA expression was also explained, in part, by differential post‐transcriptional regulation in A‐ASM cells due to enhanced mRNA stability for CTGF. In patients, higher CTGF gene expression in bronchial biopsies was correlated with increased basement membrane thickness indicating that the enhanced CTGF expression in A‐ASM may contribute to airway remodelling in asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junfei Wang
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China.,Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Alen Faiz
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Pulmonary Diseases, Groningen, The Netherlands.,University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, GRIAC (Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD), Groningen, The Netherlands.,University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Pathology & Medical Biology, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Qi Ge
- Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Discipline of Pharmacology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Cornelis J Vermeulen
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Pulmonary Diseases, Groningen, The Netherlands.,University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, GRIAC (Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD), Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Joanne Van der Velden
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Science, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic., Australia
| | - Kenneth J Snibson
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Science, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic., Australia
| | - Rob van de Velde
- Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Sonia Sawant
- Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Dikaia Xenaki
- Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Brian Oliver
- Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,School of Life Sciences, University of Technology, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Wim Timens
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, GRIAC (Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD), Groningen, The Netherlands.,University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Pathology & Medical Biology, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Nick Ten Hacken
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Pulmonary Diseases, Groningen, The Netherlands.,University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, GRIAC (Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD), Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Maarten van den Berge
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Pulmonary Diseases, Groningen, The Netherlands.,University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, GRIAC (Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD), Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Alan James
- Department of Pulmonary Physiology and Sleep Medicine, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Perth, WA, Australia.,School of Medicine and Pharmacology, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - John G Elliot
- Department of Pulmonary Physiology and Sleep Medicine, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Liang Dong
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Janette K Burgess
- Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, GRIAC (Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD), Groningen, The Netherlands.,University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Pathology & Medical Biology, Groningen, The Netherlands.,Discipline of Pharmacology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Anthony W Ashton
- Division of Perinatal Research, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Abstract
AIM Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) influences resistance vessel function and is implicated in renal pathological processes. Previous studies revealed that S1P evoked potent vasoconstriction of the pre-glomerular microvasculature, but the underlying mechanisms remain incompletely defined. We postulated that S1P-mediated pre-glomerular microvascular vasoconstriction involves activation of voltage-dependent L-type calcium channels (L-VDCC) and the rho/rho kinase pathway. METHODS Afferent arteriolar reactivity was assessed in vitro using the blood-perfused rat juxtamedullary nephron preparation, and diameter was measured during exposure to physiological and pharmacological agents. RESULTS Exogenous S1P (10-9 -10-5 mol L-1 ) evoked concentration-dependent vasoconstriction of afferent arterioles. Superfusion with nifedipine, a L-VDCC blocker, increased arteriolar diameter by 39 ± 18% of baseline and significantly attenuated the S1P-induced vasoconstriction. Superfusion with the rho kinase inhibitor, Y-27632, increased diameter by 60 ± 12% of baseline and also significantly blunted vasoconstriction by S1P. Combined nifedipine and Y-27632 treatment significantly inhibited S1P-induced vasoconstriction over the entire concentration range tested. In contrast, depletion of intracellular Ca2+ stores with the Ca2+ -ATPase inhibitors, thapsigargin or cyclopiazonic acid, did not alter the S1P-mediated vasoconstrictor profile. Scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS) or inhibition of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase activity significantly attenuated S1P-mediated vasoconstriction. CONCLUSION Exogenous S1P elicits potent vasoconstriction of rat afferent arterioles. These data also demonstrate that S1P-mediated pre-glomerular vasoconstriction involves activation of L-VDCC, the rho/rho kinase pathway and ROS. Mobilization of Ca2+ from intracellular stores is not required for S1P-mediated vasoconstriction. These studies reveal a potential role for S1P in the modulation of renal microvascular tone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Z. Guan
- Division of Nephrology; Department of Medicine; University of Alabama at Birmingham; Birmingham AL USA
| | - F. Wang
- Department of Biostatistics; Ryals School of Public Health; University of Alabama at Birmingham; Birmingham AL USA
| | - X. Cui
- Department of Biostatistics; Ryals School of Public Health; University of Alabama at Birmingham; Birmingham AL USA
| | - E. W. Inscho
- Division of Nephrology; Department of Medicine; University of Alabama at Birmingham; Birmingham AL USA
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Kumeta M, Takahashi D, Takeyasu K, Yoshimura SH. Cell type-specific suppression of mechanosensitive genes by audible sound stimulation. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0188764. [PMID: 29385174 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0188764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2017] [Accepted: 11/13/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Audible sound is a ubiquitous environmental factor in nature that transmits oscillatory compressional pressure through the substances. To investigate the property of the sound as a mechanical stimulus for cells, an experimental system was set up using 94.0 dB sound which transmits approximately 10 mPa pressure to the cultured cells. Based on research on mechanotransduction and ultrasound effects on cells, gene responses to the audible sound stimulation were analyzed by varying several sound parameters: frequency, wave form, composition, and exposure time. Real-time quantitative PCR analyses revealed a distinct suppressive effect for several mechanosensitive and ultrasound-sensitive genes that were triggered by sounds. The effect was clearly observed in a wave form- and pressure level-specific manner, rather than the frequency, and persisted for several hours. At least two mechanisms are likely to be involved in this sound response: transcriptional control and RNA degradation. ST2 stromal cells and C2C12 myoblasts exhibited a robust response, whereas NIH3T3 cells were partially and NB2a neuroblastoma cells were completely insensitive, suggesting a cell type-specific response to sound. These findings reveal a cell-level systematic response to audible sound and uncover novel relationships between life and sound.
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Lee S, Elaskandrany M, Lau LF, Lazzaro D, Grant MB, Chaqour B. Interplay between CCN1 and Wnt5a in endothelial cells and pericytes determines the angiogenic outcome in a model of ischemic retinopathy. Sci Rep 2017; 7:1405. [PMID: 28469167 PMCID: PMC5431199 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-01585-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2016] [Accepted: 03/31/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
CYR61-CTGF-NOV (CCN)1 is a dynamically expressed extracellular matrix (ECM) protein with critical functions in cardiovascular development and tissue repair. Angiogenic endothelial cells (ECs) are a major cellular source of CCN1 which, once secreted, associates with the ECM and the cell surface and tightly controls the bidirectional flow of information between cells and the surrounding matrix. Endothelium-specific CCN1 deletion in mice using a cre/lox strategy induces EC hyperplasia and causes blood vessels to coalesce into large flat hyperplastic sinuses with no distinctive hierarchical organization. This is consistent with the role of CCN1 as a negative feedback regulator of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) receptor activation. In the mouse model of oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR), pericytes become the predominant CCN1 producing cells. Pericyte-specific deletion of CCN1 significantly decreases pathological retinal neovascularization following OIR. CCN1 induces the expression of the non-canonical Wnt5a in pericyte but not in EC cultures. In turn, exogenous Wnt5a inhibits CCN1 gene expression, induces EC proliferation and increases hypersprouting. Concordantly, treatment of mice with TNP470, a non-canonical Wnt5a inhibitor, reestablishes endothelial expression of CCN1 and significantly decreases pathological neovascular growth in OIR. Our data highlight the significance of CCN1-EC and CCN1-pericyte communication signals in driving physiological and pathological angiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sangmi Lee
- Department of Cell Biology, State University of New York (SUNY), Downstate Medical Center, College of Medicine, Brooklyn, NY, 11203, USA
| | - Menna Elaskandrany
- Department of Cell Biology, State University of New York (SUNY), Downstate Medical Center, College of Medicine, Brooklyn, NY, 11203, USA
| | - Lester F Lau
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine, Chicago, IL, 60607, USA
| | - Douglas Lazzaro
- Department of Ophthalmology, Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY, 11203, USA
| | - Maria B Grant
- Departments of Ophthalmology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA
| | - Brahim Chaqour
- Department of Cell Biology, State University of New York (SUNY), Downstate Medical Center, College of Medicine, Brooklyn, NY, 11203, USA.
- Department of Ophthalmology, Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY, 11203, USA.
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15
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Drzewiecka H, Gałęcki B, Jarmołowska-Jurczyszyn D, Kluk A, Dyszkiewicz W, Jagodziński PP. Decreased expression of connective tissue growth factor in non-small cell lung cancer is associated with clinicopathological variables and can be restored by epigenetic modifiers. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2016; 142:1927-46. [PMID: 27393180 PMCID: PMC4978771 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-016-2195-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [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: 07/02/2015] [Accepted: 06/18/2016] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Purpose Recent studies indicated undisputed contribution of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) in the development of many cancers, including non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, the functional role and regulation of CTGF expression during tumorigenesis remain elusive. Our goal was to determine CTGF transcript and protein levels in tumoral and matched control tissues from 98 NSCLC patients, to correlate the results with clinicopathological features and to investigate whether the CTGF expression can be epigenetically regulated in NSCLC. Methods We used quantitative PCR, Western blotting and immunohistochemistry to evaluate CTGF expression in lung cancerous and histopathologically unchanged tissues. We tested the impact of 5-Aza-2′-deoxycytidine (5-dAzaC) and trichostatin A (TSA) on CTGF transcript and protein levels in NSCLC cells (A549, Calu-1). DNA methylation status of the CTGF regulatory region was evaluated by bisulfite sequencing. The influence of 5-dAzaC and TSA on NSCLC cells viability and proliferation was monitored by the trypan blue assay. Results We found significantly decreased levels of CTGF mRNA and protein (both p < 0.0000001) in cancerous tissues of NSCLC patients. Down-regulation of CTGF occurred regardless of gender in all histological subtypes of NSCLC. Moreover, we showed that 5-dAzaC and TSA were able to restore CTGF mRNA and protein contents in NSCLC cells. However, no methylation within CTGF regulatory region was detected. Both compounds significantly reduced NSCLC cells proliferation. Conclusions Decreased expression of CTGF is a common feature in NSCLC; however, it can be restored by the chromatin-modifying agents such as 5-dAzaC or TSA and consequently restrain cancer development. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1007/s00432-016-2195-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanna Drzewiecka
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Święcickiego 6 Street, 60-781, Poznan, Poland.
| | - Bartłomiej Gałęcki
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Szamarzewskiego 62 Street, 60-569, Poznan, Poland
| | - Donata Jarmołowska-Jurczyszyn
- Department of Clinical Pathomorphology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Przybyszewskiego 49 Street, 60-355, Poznan, Poland
| | - Andrzej Kluk
- Department of Clinical Pathomorphology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Przybyszewskiego 49 Street, 60-355, Poznan, Poland
| | - Wojciech Dyszkiewicz
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Szamarzewskiego 62 Street, 60-569, Poznan, Poland
| | - Paweł P Jagodziński
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Święcickiego 6 Street, 60-781, Poznan, Poland
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Abstract
The incidence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) is increasing, with an estimated prevalence of 12% in the United States (Synder et al., 2009). While CKD may progress to end-stage renal disease (ESRD), which necessitates renal replacement therapy, i.e. dialysis or transplantation, most CKD patients never reach ESRD due to the increased risk of death from cardiovascular disease. It is well-established that regardless of the initiating insult - most often diabetes or hypertension - fibrosis is the common pathogenic pathway that leads to progressive injury and organ dysfunction (Eddy, 2014; Duffield, 2014). As such, there has been extensive research into the molecular and cellular mechanisms of renal fibrosis; however, translation to effective therapeutic strategies has been limited. While a role for the disruption of the cytoskeleton, most notably the actin network, has been established in acute kidney injury over the past two decades, a role in regulating renal fibrosis and CKD is only recently emerging. This review will focus on the role of the cytoskeleton in regulating pro-fibrotic pathways in the kidney, as well as data suggesting that these pathways represent novel therapeutic targets to manage fibrosis and ultimately CKD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan R Parrish
- Department of Medical Pharmacology and Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA.
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Miller E, Yang J, DeRan M, Wu C, Su A, Bonamy G, Liu J, Peters E, Wu X. Identification of Serum-Derived Sphingosine-1-Phosphate as a Small Molecule Regulator of YAP. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012; 19:955-62. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2012.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 201] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2012] [Revised: 07/02/2012] [Accepted: 07/03/2012] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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18
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El-Shewy HM, Sohn M, Wilson P, Lee MH, Hammad SM, Luttrell LM, Jaffa AA. Low-density lipoprotein induced expression of connective tissue growth factor via transactivation of sphingosine 1-phosphate receptors in mesangial cells. Mol Endocrinol 2012; 26:833-45. [PMID: 22422617 DOI: 10.1210/me.2011-1261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The pro-fibrotic connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) has been linked to the development and progression of diabetic vascular and renal disease. We recently reported that low-density lipoproteins (LDL) induced expression of CTGF in aortic endothelial cells. However, the molecular mechanisms are not fully defined. Here, we have studied the mechanism by which LDL regulates CTGF expression in renal mesangial cells. In these cells, treatment with pertussis toxin abolished LDL-stimulated activation of ERK1/2 and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), indicating the involvement of heterotrimeric G proteins in LDL signaling. Treatment with LDL promoted activation and translocation of endogenous sphingosine kinase 1 (SK1) from the cytosol to the plasma membrane concomitant with production of sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P). Pretreating cells with SK inhibitor, dimethylsphinogsine or down-regulation of SK1 and SK2 revealed that LDL-dependent activation of ERK1/2 and JNK is mediated by SK1. Using a green fluorescent protein-tagged S1P₁ receptor as a biological sensor for the generation of physiologically relevant S1P levels, we found that LDL induced S1P receptor activation. Pretreating cells with S1P₁/S1P₃ receptor antagonist VPC23019 significantly inhibited activation of ERK1/2 and JNK by LDL, suggesting that LDL elicits G protein-dependent activation of ERK1/2 and JNK by stimulating SK1-dependent transactivation of S1P receptors. Furthermore, S1P stimulation induced expression of CTGF in a dose-dependent manner that was markedly inhibited by blocking the ERK1/2 and JNK signaling pathways. LDL-induced CTGF expression was pertussis toxin sensitive and inhibited by dimethylsphinogsine down-regulation of SK1 and VPC23019 treatment. Our data suggest that SK1-dependent S1P receptor transactivation is upstream of ERK1/2 and JNK and that all three steps are required for LDL-regulated expression of CTGF in mesangial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hesham M El-Shewy
- Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina 29425, USA
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Xiao LW, Yang M, Dong J, Xie H, Sui GL, He YL, Lei JX, Liao EY, Yuan X. Stretch-inducible expression of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) in human osteoblasts-like cells is mediated by PI3K-JNK pathway. Cell Physiol Biochem 2011; 28:297-304. [PMID: 21865737 DOI: 10.1159/000331743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/15/2011] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
To explore the possible role for connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) during tooth movement, we evaluated CTGF gene and protein expression in MG-63 cells subjected to cyclic stretch. Cyclic stretch caused a time-dependent increase in CTGF mRNA and protein levels.Inhibition of p38 MAP kinase or ERK activation did not affect cyclic stretch-induced CTGF expression. Specific inhibitors of PI3K suppressed stretch -induced CTGF expression in a time-dependent manner. cyclic stretch activated JNK and ERK, but not p38 MAP kinase in osteoblast-like cells. PI3K inhibitors suppressed cyclic stretch-induced JNK, but not p38 MAP kinase activation. Finally, SP600125, a Specific Inhibitor of JNK, suppressed stretch -induced CTGF Expression. These results suggest that stretch-induced CTGF expression is mediated through the PI3K-JNK -dependent pathway, not by p38 MAP kinase and ERK pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Wei Xiao
- Stomatological Center, the Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
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20
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Zhang MH, Fan JM, Xie XS, Deng YY, Chen YP, Zhen R, Li J, Cheng Y, Wen J. Ginsenoside-Rg1 protects podocytes from complement mediated injury. J Ethnopharmacol 2011; 137:99-107. [PMID: 21600971 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2011.04.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2011] [Revised: 04/04/2011] [Accepted: 04/20/2011] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
AIM OF THE STUDY Podocytes injury mediated by complement complex C5b-9 is the main feature of membranous nephropathy (MN). Little work has been done to prove that ginsenoside-Rg1 could inhibit this process. Our study aims to investigate the efficacy of ginsenoside-Rg1 in protecting the podocyte from complement mediated injury. MATERIALS AND METHODS We chose sublethal C5b-9 induced podocyte injury as the model of MN in vitro. Ginsenoside-Rg1 was given as an intervention. Morphological changes were observed by electron microscope and fluorescence microscope. The production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was detected by flow cytometry. The expression of the mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) including JNK, ERK and P38 was detected by western-blot technique. RESULTS Ginsenoside-Rg1 could protect foot processes of podocytes, suppress the damage of F-actin, decrease the production of ROS, and inhibit the activation of P38 kinase pathway. CONCLUSION These results suggest that ginsenoside-Rg1 could protect podocyte from sMAC-induced injury partly because of its antioxidant property and inhibit the activation of P38 kinase pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming-Hua Zhang
- Department of Nephrology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu City, Sichuan Province, China
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Markiewicz M, Nakerakanti SS, Kapanadze B, Ghatnekar A, Trojanowska M. Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF/CCN2) mediates angiogenic effect of S1P in human dermal microvascular endothelial cells. Microcirculation 2011; 18:1-11. [PMID: 21166920 DOI: 10.1111/j.1549-8719.2010.00058.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The primary objective of this study was to examine the potential interaction between S1P, a pleiotropic lipid mediator, and CTGF/CCN2, a secreted multimodular protein, in the process of endothelial cell migration. The secondary objective was to determine whether C- and N-terminal domains of CTGF/CCN2 have a specific function in cell migration. MATERIALS AND METHODS Migration of HDMECs was examined in monolayer wound healing "scratch" assay, whereas capillary-like tube formation was examined in three-dimensional collagen co-culture assays. RESULTS We observed that S1P stimulates migration of HDMECs concomitant with upregulation of CTGF/CCN2 expression. Furthermore, the blockade of endogenous CTGF/CCN2 via siRNA abrogated S1P-induced HDMEC migration and capillary-like tube formation. Full-length CTGF induced cell migration and capillary-like tube formation with a potency similar to that of S1P, while C-terminal domain of CTGF was slightly less effective. However, N-terminal domain had only a residual activity in inducing capillary-like tube formation. CONCLUSIONS This study revealed that CTGF/CCN2 is required for the S1P-induced endothelial cell migration, which suggests that CTGF/CCN2 may be an important mediator of S1P-induced physiological and pathological angiogenesis. Moreover, this study shows that the pro-migratory activity of CTGF/CCN2 is located in the C-terminal domain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret Markiewicz
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina 29425, USA.
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22
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Metcalfe PD, Wang J, Jiao H, Huang Y, Hori K, Moore RB, Tredget EE. Bladder outlet obstruction: progression from inflammation to fibrosis. BJU Int 2010; 106:1686-94. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1464-410x.2010.09445.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 133] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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Varma H, Yamamoto A, Sarantos MR, Hughes RE, Stockwell BR. Mutant huntingtin alters cell fate in response to microtubule depolymerization via the GEF-H1-RhoA-ERK pathway. J Biol Chem 2010; 285:37445-57. [PMID: 20858895 PMCID: PMC2988350 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m110.125542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Cellular responses to drug treatment show tremendous variations. Elucidating mechanisms underlying these variations is critical for predicting therapeutic responses and developing personalized therapeutics. Using a small molecule screening approach, we discovered how a disease causing allele leads to opposing cell fates upon pharmacological perturbation. Diverse microtubule-depolymerizing agents protected mutant huntingtin-expressing cells from cell death, while being toxic to cells lacking mutant huntingtin or those expressing wild-type huntingtin. Additional neuronal cell lines and primary neurons from Huntington disease mice also showed altered survival upon microtubule depolymerization. Transcription profiling revealed that microtubule depolymerization induced the autocrine growth factor connective tissue growth factor and activated ERK survival signaling. The genotype-selective rescue was dependent upon increased RhoA protein levels in mutant huntingtin-expressing cells, because inhibition of RhoA, its downstream effector, Rho-associated kinase (ROCK), or a microtubule-associated RhoA activator, guanine nucleotide exchange factor-H1 (GEF-H1), all attenuated the rescue. Conversely, RhoA overexpression in cells lacking mutant huntingtin conferred resistance to microtubule-depolymerizer toxicity. This study elucidates a novel pathway linking microtubule stability to cell survival and provides insight into how genetic context can dramatically alter cellular responses to pharmacological interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hemant Varma
- Department of Biological Sciences, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, New York, New York 10027, USA
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Rane MJ, Song Y, Jin S, Barati MT, Wu R, Kausar H, Tan Y, Wang Y, Zhou G, Klein JB, Li X, Cai L. Interplay between Akt and p38 MAPK pathways in the regulation of renal tubular cell apoptosis associated with diabetic nephropathy. Am J Physiol Renal Physiol 2009; 298:F49-61. [PMID: 19726550 DOI: 10.1152/ajprenal.00032.2009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Hyperglycemia induces p38 MAPK-mediated renal proximal tubular cell (RPTC) apoptosis. The current study hypothesized that alteration of the Akt signaling pathway by hyperglycemia may contribute to p38 MAPK activation and development of diabetic nephropathy. Immunoblot analysis demonstrated a hyperglycemia-induced increase in Akt phosphorylation in diabetic kidneys at 1 mo, peaking at 3 mo, and dropping back to baseline by 6 mo. Immunohistochemical staining with anti-pAkt antisera localized Akt phosphorylation to renal tubules. Maximal p38 MAPK phosphorylation was detected concomitant with increase in terminal uridine deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL)-positive cells and caspase-3 activity in 6-mo diabetic kidneys. Exposure of cultured RPTCs to high glucose (HG; 22.5 mM) significantly increased Akt phosphorylation at 3, 6, and 9 h, and decreased thereafter. In contrast, p38 MAPK phosphorylation was detected between 9 and 48 h of HG treatment. Increased p38 MAPK activation at 24 and 48 h coincided with increased apoptosis, demonstrated by increased caspase-3 activity at 24 h and increased TUNEL-positive cells at 48 h of HG exposure. Blockade of p38 cascade with SB203850 inhibited HG-induced caspase-3 activation and TUNEL-positive cells. Overexpression of constitutively active Akt abrogated HG-induced p38 MAPK phosphorylation and RPTC apoptosis. In addition, blockade of the phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase/Akt pathway with LY294002 and silencing of Akt expression with Akt small interfering RNA induced p38 MAPK phosphorylation in the absence of HG. These results collectively suggest that downregulation of Akt activation during long-term hyperglycemia contributes to enhanced p38 MAPK activation and RPTC apoptosis. Mechanism of downregulation of Akt activation in 6-mo streptozotocin diabetic kidneys was attributed to decreased Akt-heat shock protein (Hsp) 25, Akt-p38 interaction, and decreased PTEN activity. Thus PTEN or Hsp25 could serve as potential therapeutic targets to modulate Akt activation and control p38 MAPK-mediated diabetic complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madhavi J Rane
- Department of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA.
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Liu S, Ding J, Fan Q, Zhang H. The activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase is responsible for podocyte injury. Mol Biol Rep 2009; 37:2477-84. [PMID: 19728154 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-009-9761-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2008] [Accepted: 08/11/2009] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Podocyte and its slit diaphragm play an important role in maintaining normal glomerular filtration barrier function and structure. Podocyte apoptosis and slit diaphragm injury leads to proteinuria and glomerulosclerosis. However, the molecular mechanism of podocyte injury remains poorly understood. The family of mitogen-activated protein kinases including extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), c-Jun N-terminal kinase, and p38 signal pathways, are implicated in the progression of various glomerulopathies. However, the role of the activated signal pathway(s) in podocyte injury is elusive. This study examined phosphorylation of ERK in rat puromycin aminonucleoside (PAN) nephropathy as well as conditionally immortalized mouse podocyte treated with PAN in vitro. The effect of treatment with U0126, an inhibitor of ERK, was also investigated. In PAN nephropathy, the phosphorylation of ERK was marked. In podocyte injury, the marked and sustained activation of ERK pathway was also observed before the appearance of significant podocyte apoptosis. Pretreatment with U0126 to podocyte completely inhibited ERK activation, with complete suppression podocyte apoptosis and ameliorated nephrin protein expression along with the phosphorylation of nephrin in podocyte injury. In cultured podocyte, PAN induced actin recorganition, and U0126 inhibited such change. However, U0126 did not recovery the phosphorylation change of neph1 in podocyte injury. We concluded that the sustained activation of ERK along with the phosphorylation of neph1 might be necessary for podocyte injury. The study here suggested that ERK might become a potential target for therapeutic intervention to prevent podocytes from injury which will result in proteinuria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shufang Liu
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University First Hospital, No.1, Xi An Men Da Jie, 100034, Beijing, People's Republic of China.
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Samarin J, Cicha I, Goppelt-Struebe M. Cell type-specific regulation of CCN2 protein expression by PI3K-AKT-FoxO signaling. J Cell Commun Signal 2009; 3:79-84. [PMID: 19390991 PMCID: PMC2686758 DOI: 10.1007/s12079-009-0055-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2009] [Accepted: 04/03/2009] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The biological activity of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF, CCN2) is regulated at the level of intracellular signaling leading to gene expression, and by its extracellular interaction partners which determine the functional outcome of CCN2 action. In this overview, we summarize the data which provide evidence that one of the major signaling pathways, phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase (PI3K)-AKT signaling, shows a remarkable cell type-dependence in terms of regulation of CCN2 expression. In smooth muscle cells, fibroblasts, and epithelial cells, inhibition of this pathway either reduced CCN2 expression or was not involved in CCN2 gene expression depending on the stimulus used. In microvascular endothelial cells by contrast, activation of PI3K-AKT signaling was inversely related to CCN2 expression. Upregulation of CCN2 upon inhibition of PI3K-AKT was also observed in primary cultures of human endothelial cells (HUVEC) exposed to laminar flow in an in vitro flow-through system. In different types of endothelial cells, FoxO transcription factors, which are negatively regulated by AKT, were identified as potent activators of CCN2 gene expression. In HUVEC, we observed a correlation between enhanced nuclear localization of FoxO1 and increased synthesis of CCN2 protein in areas of non-uniform shear stress. These data indicate that FoxO proteins are key regulators of CCN2 gene expression which determine the effect of PI3K-AKT activation in terms of CCN2 regulation. Short summary Phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase (PI3K)-AKT signaling shows a remarkable cell type-dependence in terms of regulation of CCN2 expression. In endothelial cells activation of PI3K - AKT signaling was inversely related to CCN2 expression. FoxO transcription factors, which are negatively regulated by AKT, were identified as potent activators of CCN2 gene expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jana Samarin
- Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, Medical Clinic 4, University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, University Hospital Erlangen, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
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Li MH, Sanchez T, Pappalardo A, Lynch KR, Hla T, Ferrer F. Induction of antiproliferative connective tissue growth factor expression in Wilms' tumor cells by sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor 2. Mol Cancer Res 2008; 6:1649-56. [PMID: 18922980 DOI: 10.1158/1541-7786.mcr-07-2048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), a member of the CCN family of secreted matricellular proteins, regulates fibrosis, angiogenesis, cell proliferation, apoptosis, tumor growth, and metastasis. However, the role of CTGF and its regulation mechanism in Wilms' tumor remains largely unknown. We found that the bioactive lipid sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) induced CTGF expression in a concentration- and time-dependent manner in a Wilms' tumor cell line (WiT49), whereas FTY720-phosphate, an S1P analogue that binds all S1P receptors except S1P2, did not. Further, the specific S1P2 antagonist JTE-013 completely inhibited S1P-induced CTGF expression, whereas the S1P1 antagonist VPC44116 did not, indicating that this effect was mediated by S1P2. This was confirmed by adenoviral transduction of S1P2 in WiT49 cells, which showed that overexpression of S1P2 increased the expression of CTGF. Induction of CTGF by S1P was sensitive to ROCK inhibitor Y-27632 and c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase inhibitor SP600125, suggesting the requirement of RhoA/ROCK and c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase pathways for S1P-induced CTGF expression. Interestingly, the expression levels of CTGF were decreased in 8 of 10 Wilms' tumor tissues compared with matched normal tissues by quantitative real-time PCR and Western blot analysis. In vitro, human recombinant CTGF significantly inhibited the proliferation of WiT49 cells. In addition, overexpression of CTGF resulted in significant inhibition of WiT49 cell growth. Taken together, these data suggest that CTGF protein induced by S1P2 might act as a growth inhibitor in Wilms' tumor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei-Hong Li
- Center for Vascular Biology, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
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Xiao Z, Ma X, Jiang Y, Zhao Z, Lai B, Liao J, Yue J, Fang X. Single-molecule study of lateral mobility of epidermal growth factor receptor 2/HER2 on activation. J Phys Chem B 2008; 112:4140-5. [PMID: 18324805 DOI: 10.1021/jp710302j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The transmembrane protein HER2, a member of the epidermal growth factor receptor family of tyrosine kinase, plays important roles in many fundamental cellular processes as well as the pathogenesis of many cancers. In this work, we have applied the single-molecule fluorescence microscopic method to study lateral mobility change of HER2 on activation by imaging and tracking individual GFP-tagged HER2 molecules on the membrane of living cells. The single HER2 molecules displayed different diffusion rates and modes. It was interesting to find that the mobility of HER2 increased upon stimulation by heregulin beta1, the specific ligand of HER3. The faster diffusion was related to the tyrosine phosphorylation of HER2 or EGFR. The results provided new information for the understanding of HER2 activation and molecular mechanism of signal transduction through HER2/HER3 heterodimerization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeyu Xiao
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China, 100080
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Muehlich S, Cicha I, Garlichs CD, Krueger B, Posern G, Goppelt-Struebe M. Actin-dependent regulation of connective tissue growth factor. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2007; 292:C1732-8. [PMID: 17215322 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00552.2006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [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: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Expression of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) in endothelial cells is modulated by shear stress affecting the organization of the cytoskeleton. The molecular connection between alterations of actin and CTGF expression was investigated in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) and a microvascular endothelial cell line. Overexpression of nonpolymerizable monomeric actin R62D interfered with stress fiber formation in HUVEC and concomitantly reduced immunoreactive CTGF. In microvascular endothelial cells, flow-dependent upregulation of CTGF was prevented by this actin mutant. In contrast, overexpression of actin S14C strengthened filamentous actin and increased CTGF expression. These data indicated an inverse relationship between CTGF expression and monomeric actin. Coexpression of the mutant actins and different CTGF promoter constructs revealed an actin-sensitive site between 3 and 4.5 kb of the CTGF promoter. A CArG-like box at −3791 bp was responsible for actin-dependent CTGF induction as shown by mutagenesis. Overexpression of actin S14C activated the nonmutated promoter significantly more strongly than the mutated promoter. Actin polymerization is regulated by the small GTPase RhoA and activation of serum response factor (SRF). Overexpression of constitutively active RhoA or SRF significantly increased CTGF protein synthesis. The 4.5-kb promoter construct, but not the construct with a mutation in the CArG box, was activated by SRF or RhoA, providing evidence for a functional role of this site in CTGF induction. These findings provide novel evidence that monomeric actin is the connecting link between alterations in the cytoskeleton and CTGF gene expression and demonstrate the importance of SRF in regulating CTGF transcription.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Muehlich
- Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Loschgestrasse 8, D-91054 Erlangen, Germany
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Huelsenbeck J, Dreger SC, Gerhard R, Fritz G, Just I, Genth H. Upregulation of the immediate early gene product RhoB by exoenzyme C3 from Clostridium limosum and toxin B from Clostridium difficile. Biochemistry 2007; 46:4923-31. [PMID: 17397186 DOI: 10.1021/bi602465z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [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: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
ADP-ribosylation of Rho(A,B,C) by the family of exoenzyme C3-like transferases induces reorganization of the actin cytoskeleton based on inactivation of RhoA. No data are available on the role of RhoB in C3-treated cells. In murine fibroblasts treated with the cell-permeable exoenzyme C3 from Clostridium limosum (C3), an increase in the level of RhoB was observed. This upregulation of RhoB was based on transcriptional activation, as it was responsive to inhibition by actinomycin D and accompanied by activation of the rhoB promoter. Upregulation of RhoB was not observed in cells treated with either the actin ADP-ribosylating C2 toxin from Clostridium botulinum or latrunculin B, suggesting that inactivation of Rho but not actin reorganization was required for the upregulation of RhoB. This notion was confirmed, as the Rho/Rac/Cdc42-glucosylating toxin B from Clostridium difficile (TcdB) but not the Rac/R-Ras-glucosylating variant toxin B from C. difficile strain 1470 serotype F (TcdBF) induced a strong upregulation of RhoB. Upregulation of RhoB was further observed in response to the Rac/(H-,K-,N-,R-)Ras-glucosylating lethal toxin from Clostridium sordellii. The level of active, GTP-bound RhoB was increased in TcdB-treated cells compared to untreated cells (as determined by Rhotekin pull-down assay). In contrast, no active RhoB was found in C3-treated cells. RhoB-GTP was required for the TcdB-induced apoptosis (cytotoxic effect), as this effect was responsive to inhibition by C3. In conclusion, RhoB was upregulated by Rho-/Ras-inactivating toxins, as a consequence of the inactivation of either Rho(A,B,C) or (H-,K-,N-)Ras. In TcdB-treated cells, RhoB escaped its inactivation and was required for the cytotoxic effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Huelsenbeck
- Institut für Toxikologie, Medizinische Hochschule Hannover, D-30625 Hannover, Germany
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31
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Bajaj M, Medina-Navarro R, Suraamornkul S, Meyer C, DeFronzo RA, Mandarino LJ. Paradoxical changes in muscle gene expression in insulin-resistant subjects after sustained reduction in plasma free fatty acid concentration. Diabetes 2007; 56:743-52. [PMID: 17327445 DOI: 10.2337/db06-0840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Lipid oversupply plays a role in developing insulin resistance in skeletal muscle, decreasing expression of nuclear-encoded mitochondrial genes, and increasing extracellular matrix remodeling. To determine if a decrease in plasma lipid content reverses these abnormalities, insulin-resistant subjects with a family history of type 2 diabetes had euglycemic clamps and muscle biopsies before and after acipimox treatment to suppress free fatty acids. Free fatty acids fell from 0.584 +/- 0.041 to 0.252 +/- 0.053 mmol/l (P < 0.001) and glucose disposal increased from 5.28 +/- 0.46 to 6.31 +/- 0.55 mg . kg(-1) . min(-1) (P < 0.05) after acipimox; intramuscular fatty acyl CoA decreased from 10.3 +/- 1.9 to 4.54 +/- 0.82 pmol/mg muscle (P < 0.01). Paradoxically, expression of PGC-1-and nuclear-encoded mitochondrial genes decreased after acipimox, and expression of collagens I and III alpha-subunits (82- and 21-fold increase, respectively, P < 0.05), connective tissue growth factor (2.5-fold increase, P < 0.001), and transforming growth factor-beta1 increased (2.95-fold increase, P < 0.05). Therefore, a reduction in lipid supply does not completely reverse the molecular changes associated with lipid oversupply in muscle. Changes in expression of nuclear-encoded mitochondrial genes do not always correlate with changes in insulin sensitivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mandeep Bajaj
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, P.O. Box 874501, Tempe, AZ 85287-4501, USA
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Zdanov S, Debacq-Chainiaux F, Remacle J, Toussaint O. Identification of p38MAPK-dependent genes with changed transcript abundance in H2O2-induced premature senescence of IMR-90 hTERT human fibroblasts. FEBS Lett 2006; 580:6455-63. [PMID: 17101135 DOI: 10.1016/j.febslet.2006.10.064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2006] [Revised: 10/24/2006] [Accepted: 10/29/2006] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Premature senescence of IMR-90 human diploid fibroblasts expressing telomerase (hTERT) establishes after exposure to an acute sublethal concentration of H2O2. We showed herein that p38(MAPK) was phosphorylated after exposure of IMR-90 hTERT cells to H2O2. Selective inhibition of p38(MAPK) activity attenuated the increase in the proportion of cells positive for senescence associated beta-galactosidase activity. We generated a low density DNA array to study gene expression profiles of 240 senescence-related genes. Using this array, p38(MAPK) inhibitor and p38(MAPK) small interferent RNA, we identified several p38(MAPK)-target genes differentially expressed in H2O2-stressed IMR-90 hTERT fibroblasts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stéphanie Zdanov
- Research Unit on Cellular Biology (URBC), University of Namur (FUNDP), Rue de Bruxelles, 61 B-5000 Namur, Belgium
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Abstract
Human articular chondrocytes rapidly lose their phenotype in monolayer culture. Recently we have shown that overexpression of the transcription factor SOX9 greatly enhanced re-expression of the phenotype in three-dimensional aggregate cultures. Here we show that endogenous SOX9 mRNA can be rapidly up-regulated in subcultured human articular chondrocytes if grown in alginate, in monolayer with cytochalasin D, or with specific inhibition of the RhoA effector kinases ROCK1 and -2, which all prevent actin stress fiber formation. Disruption of actin stress fibers using any of these redifferentiation stimuli also supported the superinduction of SOX9 by cycloheximide. The superinduction was blocked by inhibitors of the p38 MAPK signaling pathway and involved the stabilization of SOX9 mRNA. Furthermore stimulation of chondrocyte p38 MAPK activity with interleukin-1beta resulted in increased levels of SOX9 mRNA, and this was again dependent on the absence of actin stress fibers in the cells. In this study of chondrocyte redifferentiation we have provided further evidence of the early involvement of SOX9 and have discovered a novel post-transcriptional regulatory mechanism activated by p38 MAPK, which stabilized SOX9 mRNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon R Tew
- UK Centre for Tissue Engineering and Wellcome Trust Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Manchester, Michael Smith Building, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, United Kingdom
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Abstract
1. Severe persistent asthma is accompanied by structural changes in the airway, referred to as remodelling. The mechanisms driving airway remodelling are poorly understood. 2. Transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta is increased in the airways of patients with asthma. Many of the effects of TGF-beta are mediated by connective tissue growth factor (CTGF). 3. Overexpression of CTGF is linked to many fibrotic diseases, but its exact role in airway remodelling is unknown. 4. Connective tissue growth factor mediates cell adhesion, migration, proliferation, survival, extracellular matrix synthesis and has a role in angiogenesis. 5. Current asthma therapies do not inhibit CTGF induction. 6. Understanding the mechanisms underlying the role of CTGF in airway remodelling may lead to new therapeutic strategies for asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janette K Burgess
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Sydney and Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
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Donati C, Bruni P. Sphingosine 1-phosphate regulates cytoskeleton dynamics: implications in its biological response. Biochim Biophys Acta 2006; 1758:2037-48. [PMID: 16890187 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2006.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2005] [Revised: 06/14/2006] [Accepted: 06/19/2006] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
The bioactive sphingolipid sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) elicits robust cytoskeletal rearrangement in a large variety of cell systems, mainly acting through a panel of specific cell surface receptors, named S1P receptors. Recent studies have begun to delineate the molecular mechanisms involved in the complex process responsible for cytoskeletal rearrangement following S1P ligation to its receptors. Notably, changes of cell shape and/or motility induced by S1P via cytoskeletal remodelling are functional to the biological action exerted by S1P which appears to be highly cell-specific. This review focuses on the current knowledge of the regulatory mechanisms of cytoskeleton dynamics elicited by S1P, with special emphasis on the relationship between cytoskeletal remodelling and the biological effects evoked by the sphingolipid in various cell types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Donati
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biochimiche, Istituto Interuniversitario di Miologia (IIM), Università degli Studi di Firenze, Viale G.B. Morgagni 50, 50134 Firenze, Italy
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Chaqour B, Yang R, Sha Q. Mechanical stretch modulates the promoter activity of the profibrotic factor CCN2 through increased actin polymerization and NF-kappaB activation. J Biol Chem 2006; 281:20608-22. [PMID: 16707502 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m600214200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The connective tissue growth factor known as CCN2 is an inducible, profibrotic molecule that becomes aberrantly expressed in mechanical overload-bearing tissues. In this study, we found that CCN2 gene expression is rapidly induced in cyclically stretched bladder smooth muscle cells (SMCs) in vitro and in the detrusor muscle of a mechanically overloaded bladder in a rat model of experimental urethral obstruction. The activity of CCN2 promoter constructs, transiently transfected into cultured SMCs, was increased (up to 6-fold) by continuous cyclic stretching. Molecular analyses of the CCN2 promoter by serial construct deletions, cis-element mutagenesis, and electrophoretic mobility shift assays revealed that a highly conserved NF-kappaB binding site located within the CCN2 proximal promoter region is responsible for the activation of the promoter by stretch. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assays showed that NF-kappaB binds to the endogenous CCN2 promoter in both stretched cells and mechanically overloaded bladder tissues. Furthermore, stretch-dependent CCN2 promoter activity was significantly reduced upon inhibition of either phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase, p38 stress-activated kinase, or RhoA GTPase and was completely abolished upon inhibition of actin polymerization. Concordantly, actin polymerization was increased in either mechanically stretched cells or overloaded bladder tissues. Incubation of cultured SMCs with a cell-penetrating peptide containing the N-terminal sequence, Ac-EEED, of smooth muscle alpha-actin, altered both actin cytoskeleton organization and stretch-mediated nuclear relocation of NF-kappaB, and subsequently, it reduced CCN2 promoter activity. Thus, mechanical stretch-induced changes in actin dynamics mediate NF-kappaB activation and induce CCN2 gene expression, which probably initiates the fibrotic reactions observed in mechanical overload-associated pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brahim Chaqour
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, State University of New York Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, New York 11203, USA.
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Abstract
Expression of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) is sensitive to reorganization of the actin cytoskeleton, but also to alterations in cell morphology due to extracellular forces, for example, cyclic stretching or mechanical loading. Dynamic alterations of focal adhesion proteins were thus proposed to modulate CTGF induction. Immortalized human renal fibroblasts were cultured in or on top of preformed collagen-1 gels. Proteins were detected by immunofluorescence and quantified by Western blotting. Fibroblasts cultured in/on collagen gels resembled cells in vivo by their spindle-like morphology, absence of actin stress fibers, small punctiform focal contacts, and low levels of CTGF expression. Disassembly of microtubules by short-term treatment with colchicine induced cell rounding, cortical recruitment of patchy F-actin, reorganization of focal contacts into strong clusters, and upregulation of CTGF, all of which were dependent on RhoA-Rho-kinase signaling. Clustering of focal adhesion sites activated Src-family kinases and focal adhesion kinase (FAK). Interference with Src activity by PP2 had no effect on the morphological alterations but decreased tyrosine phosphorylation of focal adhesion proteins and almost completely prevented upregulation of CTGF. Furthermore, inhibition of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase reduced CTGF expression. On the other hand, when the fibroblasts were cultured on a rigid matrix, that is collagen-coated plates, strong focal complexes prevented the dynamic alterations, and RhoA-mediated upregulation of CTGF expression was independent of Src-FAK signaling. Assembly of focal adhesion proteins regulates CTGF expression, providing a link between actin network, adhesion receptors, and CTGF-mediated functions such as synthesis of extracellular matrix proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Graness
- Department of Nephrology, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
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Kondo S, Tanaka N, Kubota S, Mukudai Y, Yosimichi G, Sugahara T, Takigawa M. Novel angiogenic inhibitor DN-9693 that inhibits post-transcriptional induction of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF/CCN2) by vascular endothelial growth factor in human endothelial cells. Mol Cancer Ther 2006; 5:129-37. [PMID: 16432171 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-05-0097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [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: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF/CCN2) is a potent angiogenic factor. In this report, we describe for the first time that vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-mediated induction of the ctgf/ccn2 gene was a post-transcriptional event that was inhibited by a novel angiogenic inhibitor, DN-9693, in human umbilical vein endothelial cells. Steady-state mRNA levels of ctgf/ccn2 were remarkably increased by VEGF in a concentration-dependent manner, whereas the activity of the ctgf/ccn2 promoter was not responsive to VEGF as confirmed by a reporter gene assay and quantitative real-time PCR analysis. By employing a RNA degradation assay, we eventually found that the observed increase in the ctgf/ccn2 mRNA level was due to an increased stability of the mRNA induced by VEGF. DN-9693 at a dose of 0.1 to 2 ng/mL did not affect basal levels of ctgf/ccn2 mRNA; however, enhancement of ctgf/ccn2 mRNA expression by VEGF was specifically inhibited by DN-9693. Of importance, the inhibitory effects could be also ascribed to post-transcriptional regulation, because the VEGF-mediated increase in stability of ctgf/ccn2 mRNA was suppressed by DN-9693. Furthermore, we investigated the effects of DN-9693 on VEGF-induced activation of three subgroups of mitogen-activated protein kinase pathways and found that DN-9693 blocked the activation of these pathways by VEGF. These results suggest that VEGF increases ctgf/ccn2 mRNA stability through mitogen-activated protein kinase-mediated intracellular signaling cascade(s), which can be inhibited posttranscriptionally by a novel angiogenic inhibitor, DN-9693, in human umbilical vein endothelial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seiji Kondo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama 700-8525, Japan
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Katsuma S, Ruike Y, Yano T, Kimura M, Hirasawa A, Tsujimoto G. Transcriptional regulation of connective tissue growth factor by sphingosine 1-phosphate in rat cultured mesangial cells. FEBS Lett 2005; 579:2576-82. [PMID: 15862293 DOI: 10.1016/j.febslet.2005.03.073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2005] [Revised: 03/01/2005] [Accepted: 03/29/2005] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) is induced by transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) via Smad activation in mesangial cells. We recently reported that sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) induces CTGF expression in rat cultured mesangial cells. However, the mechanism by which S1P induces CTGF expression is unknown. The present study revealed that S1P-induced CTGF expression is mediated via pertussis toxin-insensitive pathways, which are involved in the activation of small GTPases of the Rho family and protein kinase C. We also showed by luciferase reporter assays and chromatin immunoprecipitation that S1P induces CTGF expression via Smad activation as TGF-beta does.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susumu Katsuma
- Bioinformatics Center, Institute for Chemical Research, Kyoto University, Uji, Japan
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Zhou D, Herrick DJ, Rosenbloom J, Chaqour B. Cyr61 mediates the expression of VEGF, alphav-integrin, and alpha-actin genes through cytoskeletally based mechanotransduction mechanisms in bladder smooth muscle cells. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2005; 98:2344-54. [PMID: 15649872 DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.01093.2004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Application of cyclic strain to bladder smooth muscle (SM) cells results in profound alterations of the histomorphometry, phenotype, and function of the cells. The onset of this process is characterized by the activation of a cascade of signaling events coupled to progressive and, perhaps, interdependent changes of gene expression. In particular, externally applied cyclic stretch to cultured bladder SM cells results in the transient expression of the Cyr61 gene that encodes a cysteine-rich heparin-binding protein originally described as a proangiogenic factor capable of altering the gene programs for angiogenesis, adhesion, and extracellular matrix synthesis. In this study, we investigated the effects of mechanical stretch-induced Cyr61 on the expression of potential mechanosensitive Cyr61 target genes and the signaling pathways involved. We showed that suppression of Cyr61 expression with an adenoviral vector encoding an antisense oligonucleotide reduced mechanical strain-induced VEGF, alpha(v)-integrin, and SM alpha-actin gene expression but had no effect on the myosin heavy chain isoforms SM-1 and SM-2. Signaling pathways involving RhoA GTPase, phosphatidyl inositol 3-kinase, and cytoskeletal actin dynamics altered stretch-induced Cyr61 and Cyr61 target genes. Reciprocally, adenovirus-mediated overexpression of Cyr61 in cells cultured under static conditions increased the expression of VEGF, alpha(v)-integrin, and SM alpha-actin, as well as that of SM-1 and SM-2 isoforms, suggesting that the effects of a sustained expression of Cyr61 extend to SM specific contractile function. These effects were dependent on integrity of the actin cytoskeleton. Together, these results indicate that Cyr61 is an important determinant of the genetic reprogramming that occurs in mechanically challenged cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongming Zhou
- Dept. of Anatomy and Cell Biology, SUNY Downstate Medical Center, 450 Clarkson Ave., Box 5, Brooklyn, NY 11203-2098, USA
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