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Romualdo GR, de Souza JLH, Valente LC, Barbisan LF. Assessment of the impact of glyphosate and 2,4-D herbicides on the kidney injury and transcriptome changes in obese mice fed a Western diet. Toxicol Lett 2023; 385:1-11. [PMID: 37567420 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2023.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023]
Abstract
The development of chronic kidney disease has been associated with comorbidities resulting from the consumption of Westernized dietary (WD) patterns, including obesity and other metabolic dysfunctions. Kidneys also have a crucial role in the metabolism and excretion of xenobiotics, including herbicides. There is limited knowledge regarding the simultaneous exposure to WD and glyphosate (glypho) and 2,4-D, the most used herbicides globally. Thus, this study examined whether exposure to glypho and/or 2,4-D, either individually or in mixed, could impact the early effects of WD intake on kidney histology and gene expression in a rodent model. Male C57BL6J mice were fed a WD containing 20% lard, 0.2% cholesterol, 20% sucrose, and high sugar solution with 23.1 and 18.9 g/L of D-fructose and D-glucose for six months. During this period, the mice also received glypho (0.05 or 5 mg/kg/day), 2,4-D (0.02 or 2 mg/kg/day), or a mixture of both (0.05 +0.02, 5 +2 mg/kg/day) via intragastric administration five times per week. The doses were within or below the established regulatory limits. While single or mixed exposures did not alter WD-induced obesity, tubular lipid vacuolation, or increased serum creatinine levels; the exposure to higher doses of the mixture (5 +2) reduced the mesangial matrix area and tubular cell proliferation, while increasing the density of F4/80 macrophages in the renal interstitium. In terms of transcriptomic analysis, the herbicide mixture altered the expression of 415 genes in the kidney, which were found to be associated with immune response processes, particularly those related to phagocyte activity. While discrete, findings indicate that herbicide mixtures, rather than single exposures, might induce minor deleterious effects on the kidneys of obese mice under WD intake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guilherme Ribeiro Romualdo
- São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu Medical School, Experimental Research Unit (UNIPEX), Multimodel Drug Screening Platform - Laboratory of Chemically Induced and Experimental Carcinogenesis (MDSP-LCQE), Botucatu, SP, Brazil; São Paulo State University (UNESP), Biosciences Institute, Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Laboratory of Chemically Induced and Experimental Carcinogenesis (LCQE), Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Jéssica Luri Hisano de Souza
- São Paulo State University (UNESP), Biosciences Institute, Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Laboratory of Chemically Induced and Experimental Carcinogenesis (LCQE), Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Letícia Cardoso Valente
- São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu Medical School, Experimental Research Unit (UNIPEX), Multimodel Drug Screening Platform - Laboratory of Chemically Induced and Experimental Carcinogenesis (MDSP-LCQE), Botucatu, SP, Brazil; São Paulo State University (UNESP), Biosciences Institute, Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Laboratory of Chemically Induced and Experimental Carcinogenesis (LCQE), Botucatu, SP, Brazil; São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu Medical School, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Luís Fernando Barbisan
- São Paulo State University (UNESP), Biosciences Institute, Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Laboratory of Chemically Induced and Experimental Carcinogenesis (LCQE), Botucatu, SP, Brazil.
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Zhiwen X, Yongqing Z, Wenlan S, Shan H, Bangmin H, Juntao J, Yingjian Z, Yifeng J. Dibutyl phthalate induces epithelial-mesenchymal transition of renal tubular epithelial cells via the Ang II/AMPKα2/Cx43 signaling pathway. Toxicology 2023:153584. [PMID: 37356649 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2023.153584] [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] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023]
Abstract
Maternal exposure to dibutyl phthalate (DBP) induces renal fibrosis in offspring. However, the specific roles of connexin 43 (Cx43) in DBP-induced renal fibrosis remain unknown. Therefore, in this study, we analysed the expression of Cx43 in renal tubular epithelial cells (RTECs) with or without DBP exposure using reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and western blotting. A small interfering RNA against Cx43 was introduced to assess its role in epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of RTECs caused by 100 μmol/L DBP. Bioinformatics analysis was conducted with AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK)-α2 and angiotensin (Ang) II inhibitors to determine the mechanisms involved in the expression of Cx43 in HK-2 cells. RT-qPCR and western blotting revealed that DBP increased the expression of Cx43 in vitro. Moreover, Cx43 knockdown significantly alleviated DBP-induced EMT caused by DBP in HK-2 cells. Bioinformatics analysis with AMPKα2 and Ang II inhibitors revealed that DBP upregulated Cx43 expression by activating the Ang II/AMPKα2 signaling pathway. Our findings indicate that DBP induces renal fibrosis by activating Ang II/AMPKα2/Cx43 signaling pathway and EMT in RETCs, suggesting a potential target for the treatment of renal fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xie Zhiwen
- Department of Urology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Zhang Yongqing
- Department of Urology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Sun Wenlan
- Department of Geriatric, Shanghai General Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing Medical University, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Hua Shan
- Department of Urology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Han Bangmin
- Department of Urology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Jiang Juntao
- Department of Urology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Zhu Yingjian
- Department of Urology, Jiading Branch of Shanghai General Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing Medical University, Shanghai 201803, China.
| | - Jing Yifeng
- Department of Urology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China.
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3
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An X, Li G, Wang S, Xie T, Ren X, Zhao Y. Renoprotection by Inhibiting Connexin 43 Expression in a Mouse Model of Obesity-Related Renal Injury. Diabetes Metab Syndr Obes 2023; 16:1415-1424. [PMID: 37220614 PMCID: PMC10200121 DOI: 10.2147/dmso.s412546] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Our previous study conducted in an obesity-related renal injury rat model have established a connection between increased connexin 43 (Cx43) expression and renal injury. In this study, we investigated whether inhibiting Cx43 expression could provide renoprotection in a mouse model of obesity-related renal injury. Methods Five-week-old C57BL/6J mice were fed with a high-fat diet for 12 weeks to establish an obesity-related renal injury model, then they were treated with Cx43 antisense oligodeoxynucleotide (AS) or scrambled oligodeoxynucleotide (SCR) by an implanted osmotic pump for 4 weeks. Finally, the glomerular filtration function, the histological change in the glomeruli, and the markers of podocyte injury (WT-1, Nephrin) and inflammatory infiltration of renal tissue (CD68, F4/80 and VCAM-1) were examined respectively. Results The results showed that inhibiting Cx43 expression by AS in this mouse model of obesity-related renal injury can effectively improve glomerular filtration function, alleviate glomerular expansion and podocyte injury, and attenuate the inflammatory infiltration of renal tissue. Conclusion Our results demonstrated that inhibiting Cx43 expression by AS could provide renoprotection for the mouse model of obesity-related renal injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaomin An
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116027, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Nephrology, Xi’an Children’s Hospital, Xi’an, 710003, People’s Republic of China
| | - Guohua Li
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116027, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shu Wang
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116027, People’s Republic of China
| | - Tianrun Xie
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116027, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaoxiao Ren
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116027, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yongli Zhao
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116027, People’s Republic of China
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Perutina I, Kelam N, Maglica M, Racetin A, Ogorevc M, Filipović N, Katsuyama Y, Mišković J, Vukojević K. Disturbances in Switching between Canonical and Non-Canonical Wnt Signaling Characterize Developing and Postnatal Kidneys of Dab1-/- ( yotari) Mice. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11051321. [PMID: 37238991 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11051321] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aims to determine the protein expression patterns of acetylated α-tubulin, inversin, dishevelled-1, Wnt5a/b, and β-catenin in developing (E13.5 and E15.5) and early postnatal (P4 and P14) kidneys of Dab1-/- (yotari) mice, their role in regulating the Wnt signaling pathway, and the possible relation to congenital anomalies of kidney and urinary tract (CAKUT). The analysis of target protein co-expression, observed in the renal vesicles/immature glomeruli, ampullae/collecting ducts, convoluted tubules, metanephric mesenchyme of developing kidneys, but proximal convoluted tubules, distal convoluted tubules and glomeruli of postnatal kidneys, was performed using double immunofluorescence and semi-quantitative methods. The overall expression of acetylated α-tubulin and inversin during normal kidney development increases with higher expression in yotari mice as the kidney acquires mature morphology. An increase in β-catenin and cytosolic DVL-1 levels, indicating a switch from non-canonical to canonical Wnt signaling, is found in the postnatal kidney of yotari mice. In contrast, healthy mouse kidney expresses inversin and Wnt5a/b in the postnatal period, thus activating non-canonical Wnt signaling. Target protein expression patterns in kidney development and the early postnatal period observed in this study could indicate that switching between canonical and non-canonical Wnt signaling is crucial for normal nephrogenesis, while the defective Dab1 gene product in yotari mice may promote CAKUT due to interfering with this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilija Perutina
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, University of Mostar, 88000 Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Nela Kelam
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, University of Split School of Medicine, 21000 Split, Croatia
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, University of Mostar, 88000 Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Mirko Maglica
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, University of Mostar, 88000 Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Anita Racetin
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, University of Split School of Medicine, 21000 Split, Croatia
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, University of Mostar, 88000 Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Marin Ogorevc
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, University of Split School of Medicine, 21000 Split, Croatia
| | - Natalija Filipović
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, University of Mostar, 88000 Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, University of Split School of Medicine, 21000 Split, Croatia
| | - Yu Katsuyama
- Department of Anatomy, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu 520-2192, Japan
| | - Josip Mišković
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, University of Mostar, 88000 Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Katarina Vukojević
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, University of Mostar, 88000 Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, University of Split School of Medicine, 21000 Split, Croatia
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, University of Mostar, 88000 Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Center for Translational Research in Biomedicine, University of Split School of Medicine, 21000 Split, Croatia
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Lucero CM, Prieto-Villalobos J, Marambio-Ruiz L, Balmazabal J, Alvear TF, Vega M, Barra P, Retamal MA, Orellana JA, Gómez GI. Hypertensive Nephropathy: Unveiling the Possible Involvement of Hemichannels and Pannexons. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23. [PMID: 36555574 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232415936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypertension is one of the most common risk factors for developing chronic cardiovascular diseases, including hypertensive nephropathy. Within the glomerulus, hypertension causes damage and activation of mesangial cells (MCs), eliciting the production of large amounts of vasoactive and proinflammatory agents. Accordingly, the activation of AT1 receptors by the vasoactive molecule angiotensin II (AngII) contributes to the pathogenesis of renal damage, which is mediated mostly by the dysfunction of intracellular Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i) signaling. Similarly, inflammation entails complex processes, where [Ca2+]i also play crucial roles. Deregulation of this second messenger increases cell damage and promotes fibrosis, reduces renal blood flow, and impairs the glomerular filtration barrier. In vertebrates, [Ca2+]i signaling depends, in part, on the activity of two families of large-pore channels: hemichannels and pannexons. Interestingly, the opening of these channels depends on [Ca2+]i signaling. In this review, we propose that the opening of channels formed by connexins and/or pannexins mediated by AngII induces the ATP release to the extracellular media, with the subsequent activation of purinergic receptors. This process could elicit Ca2+ overload and constitute a feed-forward mechanism, leading to kidney damage.
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Roger E, Boutin L, Chadjichristos CE. The Role of Connexin 43 in Renal Disease: Insights from In Vivo Models of Experimental Nephropathy. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232113090. [PMID: 36361888 PMCID: PMC9656944 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232113090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Revised: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Renal disease is a major public health challenge since its prevalence has continuously increased over the last decades. At the end stage, extrarenal replacement therapy and transplantation remain the only treatments currently available. To understand how the disease progresses, further knowledge of its pathophysiology is needed. For this purpose, experimental models, using mainly rodents, have been developed to unravel the mechanisms involved in the initiation and progression of renal disease, as well as to identify potential targets for therapy. The gap junction protein connexin 43 has recently been identified as a novel player in the development of kidney disease. Its expression has been found to be altered in many types of human renal pathologies, as well as in different animal models, contributing to the activation of inflammatory and fibrotic processes that lead to renal damage. Furthermore, Cx43 genetic, pharmacogenetic, or pharmacological inhibition preserved renal function and structure. This review summarizes the existing advances on the role of this protein in renal diseases, based mainly on different in vivo animal models of acute and chronic renal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Roger
- INSERM, UMR-S1155, Bâtiment Recherche, Tenon Hospital, 75020 Paris, France
- Faculty of Medicine, Sorbonne University, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Louis Boutin
- INSERM, UMR-S1155, Bâtiment Recherche, Tenon Hospital, 75020 Paris, France
- Faculty of Medicine, Sorbonne University, 75013 Paris, France
- INSERM, UMR-942, MASCOT, Cardiovascular Markers in Stress Condition, Université de Paris, 75010 Paris, France
- FHU PROMICE AP-HP, Saint Louis and DMU Parabol, Critical Care Medicine and Burn Unit, AP-HP, Department of Anesthesiology, Université Paris Cité, 75010 Paris, France
| | - Christos E. Chadjichristos
- INSERM, UMR-S1155, Bâtiment Recherche, Tenon Hospital, 75020 Paris, France
- Faculty of Medicine, Sorbonne University, 75013 Paris, France
- Correspondence:
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7
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Lucero CM, Marambio-Ruiz L, Balmazabal J, Prieto-Villalobos J, León M, Fernández P, Orellana JA, Velarde V, Sáez JC, Gómez GI. TNF-α Plus IL-1β Induces Opposite Regulation of Cx43 Hemichannels and Gap Junctions in Mesangial Cells through a RhoA/ROCK-Dependent Pathway. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:10097. [PMID: 36077498 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231710097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [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: 08/22/2022] [Revised: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Connexin 43 (Cx43) is expressed in kidney tissue where it forms hemichannels and gap junction channels. However, the possible functional relationship between these membrane channels and their role in damaged renal cells remains unknown. Here, analysis of ethidium uptake and thiobarbituric acid reactive species revealed that treatment with TNF-α plus IL-1β increases Cx43 hemichannel activity and oxidative stress in MES-13 cells (a cell line derived from mesangial cells), and in primary mesangial cells. The latter was also accompanied by a reduction in gap junctional communication, whereas Western blotting assays showed a progressive increase in phosphorylated MYPT (a target of RhoA/ROCK) and Cx43 upon TNF-α/IL-1β treatment. Additionally, inhibition of RhoA/ROCK strongly antagonized the TNF-α/IL-1β-induced activation of Cx43 hemichannels and reduction in gap junctional coupling. We propose that activation of Cx43 hemichannels and inhibition of cell-cell coupling during pro-inflammatory conditions could contribute to oxidative stress and damage of mesangial cells via the RhoA/ROCK pathway.
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Xu H, Wang M, Li Y, Shi M, Wang Z, Cao C, Hong Y, Hu B, Zhu H, Zhao Z, Chu X, Zhu F, Deng X, Wu J, Zhao F, Guo J, Wang Y, Pei G, Zhu F, Wang X, Yang J, Yao Y, Zeng R. Blocking connexin 43 and its promotion of ATP release from renal tubular epithelial cells ameliorates renal fibrosis. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:511. [PMID: 35641484 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-04910-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [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: 11/26/2021] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Whether metabolites derived from injured renal tubular epithelial cells (TECs) participate in renal fibrosis is poorly explored. After TEC injury, various metabolites are released and among the most potent is adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is released via ATP-permeable channels. In these hemichannels, connexin 43 (Cx43) is the most common member. However, its role in renal interstitial fibrosis (RIF) has not been fully examined. We analyzed renal samples from patients with obstructive nephropathy and mice with unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO). Cx43-KSP mice were generated to deplete Cx43 in TECs. Through transcriptomics, metabolomics, and single-cell sequencing multi-omics analysis, the relationship among tubular Cx43, ATP, and macrophages in renal fibrosis was explored. The expression of Cx43 in TECs was upregulated in both patients and mice with obstructive nephropathy. Knockdown of Cx43 in TECs or using Cx43-specific inhibitors reduced UUO-induced inflammation and fibrosis in mice. Single-cell RNA sequencing showed that ATP specific receptors, including P2rx4 and P2rx7, were distributed mainly on macrophages. We found that P2rx4- or P2rx7-positive macrophages underwent pyroptosis after UUO, and in vitro ATP directly induced pyroptosis by macrophages. The administration of P2 receptor or P2X7 receptor blockers to UUO mice inhibited macrophage pyroptosis and demonstrated a similar degree of renoprotection as Cx43 genetic depletion. Further, we found that GAP 26 (a Cx43 hemichannel inhibitor) and A-839977 (an inhibitor of the pyroptosis receptor) alleviated UUO-induced fibrosis, while BzATP (the agonist of pyroptosis receptor) exacerbated fibrosis. Single-cell sequencing demonstrated that the pyroptotic macrophages upregulated the release of CXCL10, which activated intrarenal fibroblasts. Cx43 mediates the release of ATP from TECs during renal injury, inducing peritubular macrophage pyroptosis, which subsequently leads to the release of CXCL10 and activation of intrarenal fibroblasts and acceleration of renal fibrosis.
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Luetić M, Kretzschmar G, Grobe M, Jerčić L, Bota I, Ivić V, Balog M, Zjalić M, Vitlov Uljević M, Heffer M, Gaspar R, Tabi T, Vukojević K, Vari SG, Filipović N. Sex-specific effects of metformin and liraglutide on renal pathology and expression of connexin 45 and pannexin 1 following long-term high-fat high-sugar diet. Acta Histochem 2021; 123:151817. [PMID: 34808525 DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2021.151817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Revised: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
The comparative effects of the two commonly used antidiabetic drugs metformin and liraglutide on renal pathology and expression of connexin 45 (Cx45) and pannexin 1 (Panx1) in adult obese rats fed high-fat high-sugar diet (HFHSD) were studied. Considering recent data on the profound influence of sex on metformin and liraglutide effects, we compared the effects of both drugs between male and female animals. 44-week-old Sprague-Dawley rats were separated into 4 groups that were fed: standard diet, HFHSD, HFHSD treated with metformin (s.c., 50 mg/kg/day) and HFHSD treated with liraglutide (s.c., 0.3 mg/kg/day). Treatment with metformin or liraglutide lasted for 14 weeks. Histology and immunohistochemistry were performed to quantify renal pathological changes and Cx45 and Panx1 expression. HFHSD caused thickening of the Bowman's capsule (BC). Both metformin and liraglutide failed to ameliorate the BC thickening; metformin even worsened it. Effects on the tubulointerstitial fibrosis score, BC thickness and Cx45 and Panx1 expression were sex-dependent. We found a 50% increase in mitochondria in proximal tubules of metformin- and liraglutide-treated HFHSD-fed rats, but these effects were not dependent on the sex. This is a first study showing that the effects of metformin and liraglutide on kidney pathology in rats fed HFHSD are mostly sex-dependent and that these effects are not necessarily beneficial. Both drugs changed the Cx45 and Panx 1 expression; hence their effects could be related to amelioration of disruptions in intercellular communication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Luetić
- Department of Pathology, Forensic Medicine and Cytology, University Hospital Centre Split, Spinčićeva 1, Split 21000, Croatia
| | - Genia Kretzschmar
- University of Split School of Medicine, Laboratory for Neurocardiology, Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Šoltanska 2, Split 21000, Croatia
| | - Maximilian Grobe
- University of Split School of Medicine, Laboratory for Neurocardiology, Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Šoltanska 2, Split 21000, Croatia
| | - Leo Jerčić
- University of Split School of Medicine, Laboratory for Neurocardiology, Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Šoltanska 2, Split 21000, Croatia
| | - Ivana Bota
- University of Split School of Medicine, Laboratory for Neurocardiology, Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Šoltanska 2, Split 21000, Croatia
| | - Vedrana Ivić
- Faculty of Medicine Osijek Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, Cara Hadrijana 10/E, Osijek 31000, Croatia
| | - Marta Balog
- Faculty of Medicine Osijek Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, Cara Hadrijana 10/E, Osijek 31000, Croatia
| | - Milorad Zjalić
- Faculty of Medicine Osijek Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, Cara Hadrijana 10/E, Osijek 31000, Croatia
| | - Marija Vitlov Uljević
- University of Split School of Medicine, Laboratory for Neurocardiology, Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Šoltanska 2, Split 21000, Croatia
| | - Marija Heffer
- Faculty of Medicine Osijek Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, Cara Hadrijana 10/E, Osijek 31000, Croatia
| | - Robert Gaspar
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Interdisciplinary Excellence Centre, University of Szeged, Dóm tér. 12., H-6720 Szeged, Hungary
| | - Tamas Tabi
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Katarina Vukojević
- University of Split School of Medicine, Laboratory for Neurocardiology, Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Šoltanska 2, Split 21000, Croatia; University of Split School of Medicine, Laboratory for Early Human Development, Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Šoltanska 2, Split 21000, Croatia
| | - Sandor G Vari
- International Research and Innovation in Medicine Program, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Natalija Filipović
- University of Split School of Medicine, Laboratory for Neurocardiology, Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Šoltanska 2, Split 21000, Croatia.
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Abstract
Kidneys are thought to express eight different connexin isoforms (i.e., Cx 26, 30, 32, 37, 40, 43, 45, and 46), which form either hemichannels or gap junctions serving to intercellular communication and functional synchronization. Proper function of connexins has already been shown to be crucial for regulation of renal hemodynamics and renin secretion, and there is also growing evidence for connexins to play a role in pathologic conditions such as renal fibrosis or diabetic nephropathy. Therefore, exact intrarenal localization of the different connexin isoforms gains particular interest. Until now intrarenal expression of connexins has mainly been examined by immunohistochemistry, which in part generated conflicting results depending on antibodies and fixation protocols used. In this work, we used fluorescent RNAscope as an alternative technical approach to localize renal connexin mRNAs in healthy mouse kidneys. Addition of RNAscope probes for cell type specific mRNAs was used to assign connexin mRNA signals to specific cell types. We hereby found Cx26 mRNA strongly expressed in proximal tubules, Cx30 mRNA was selectively detected in the urothelium, and Cx32 mRNA was found in proximal tubules and to a lesser extent also in collecting ducts. Cx37 mRNA was mainly associated with vascular endothelium, Cx40 mRNA was largely found in glomerular mesangial and less in vascular endothelial cells, Cx43 mRNA was sparsely expressed by interstitial cells of all kidney zones, and Cx45 mRNA was predominantly found in smooth muscle cell layers of both blood vessels and ureter as well as in mesangial and interstitial (fibroblastic) cells. Cx46 mRNA could not be detected. In summary our results essentially confirm previous data on connexin expression in the renal vasculature and in glomeruli. In addition, they demonstrate strong connexin gene expression in proximal tubules, and they suggest significant connexin expression in resident tubulointerstitial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Geis
- Department of Nephrology, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany.
| | | | - Charlotte Wagner
- Institute of Physiology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
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Abed A, Leroyer AS, Kavvadas P, Authier F, Bachelier R, Foucault-Bertaud A, Bardin N, Cohen CD, Lindenmeyer MT, Genest M, Joshkon A, Jourde-Chiche N, Burtey S, Blot-Chabaud M, Dignat-George F, Chadjichristos CE. Endothelial-Specific Deletion of CD146 Protects Against Experimental Glomerulonephritis in Mice. Hypertension 2021; 77:1260-1272. [PMID: 33689459 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.119.14176] [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] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
[Figure: see text].
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Abed
- From the INSERM UMR-S1155, Tenon Hospital, Paris, France (A.A., P.K., F.A., M.G., C.E.C.).,Sorbonne Université, Paris, France (A.A., C.E.C.)
| | - Aurélie S Leroyer
- Aix-Marseille University, INSERM 1263, INRAE 1260, C2VN, France (A.S.L., R.B., A.F.-B., N.B., A.J., N.J.-C., S.B., M.B.-C., F.D.-G.)
| | - Panagiotis Kavvadas
- From the INSERM UMR-S1155, Tenon Hospital, Paris, France (A.A., P.K., F.A., M.G., C.E.C.)
| | - Florence Authier
- From the INSERM UMR-S1155, Tenon Hospital, Paris, France (A.A., P.K., F.A., M.G., C.E.C.)
| | - Richard Bachelier
- Aix-Marseille University, INSERM 1263, INRAE 1260, C2VN, France (A.S.L., R.B., A.F.-B., N.B., A.J., N.J.-C., S.B., M.B.-C., F.D.-G.)
| | - Alexandrine Foucault-Bertaud
- Aix-Marseille University, INSERM 1263, INRAE 1260, C2VN, France (A.S.L., R.B., A.F.-B., N.B., A.J., N.J.-C., S.B., M.B.-C., F.D.-G.)
| | - Nathalie Bardin
- Aix-Marseille University, INSERM 1263, INRAE 1260, C2VN, France (A.S.L., R.B., A.F.-B., N.B., A.J., N.J.-C., S.B., M.B.-C., F.D.-G.)
| | - Clemens D Cohen
- Nephrological Center, Medical Clinic and Policlinic IV, University of Munich, Germany (C.D.C.)
| | - Maja T Lindenmeyer
- Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany (M.T.L.)
| | - Magali Genest
- From the INSERM UMR-S1155, Tenon Hospital, Paris, France (A.A., P.K., F.A., M.G., C.E.C.)
| | - Ahmad Joshkon
- Aix-Marseille University, INSERM 1263, INRAE 1260, C2VN, France (A.S.L., R.B., A.F.-B., N.B., A.J., N.J.-C., S.B., M.B.-C., F.D.-G.)
| | - Noémie Jourde-Chiche
- Aix-Marseille University, INSERM 1263, INRAE 1260, C2VN, France (A.S.L., R.B., A.F.-B., N.B., A.J., N.J.-C., S.B., M.B.-C., F.D.-G.).,Department of Nephrology, Aix-Marseille University, AP-HM Hôpital de la Conception, Marseille, France (N.J.-C., S.B.)
| | - Stéphane Burtey
- Aix-Marseille University, INSERM 1263, INRAE 1260, C2VN, France (A.S.L., R.B., A.F.-B., N.B., A.J., N.J.-C., S.B., M.B.-C., F.D.-G.).,Department of Nephrology, Aix-Marseille University, AP-HM Hôpital de la Conception, Marseille, France (N.J.-C., S.B.)
| | - Marcel Blot-Chabaud
- Aix-Marseille University, INSERM 1263, INRAE 1260, C2VN, France (A.S.L., R.B., A.F.-B., N.B., A.J., N.J.-C., S.B., M.B.-C., F.D.-G.)
| | - Françoise Dignat-George
- Aix-Marseille University, INSERM 1263, INRAE 1260, C2VN, France (A.S.L., R.B., A.F.-B., N.B., A.J., N.J.-C., S.B., M.B.-C., F.D.-G.)
| | - Christos E Chadjichristos
- From the INSERM UMR-S1155, Tenon Hospital, Paris, France (A.A., P.K., F.A., M.G., C.E.C.).,Sorbonne Université, Paris, France (A.A., C.E.C.)
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12
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Lozić M, Filipović N, Jurić M, Kosović I, Benzon B, Šolić I, Kelam N, Racetin A, Watanabe K, Katsuyama Y, Ogata M, Saraga-Babić M, Vukojević K. Alteration of Cx37, Cx40, Cx43, Cx45, Panx1, and Renin Expression Patterns in Postnatal Kidneys of Dab1-/- ( yotari) Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:1284. [PMID: 33525532 PMCID: PMC7865779 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22031284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Revised: 01/24/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Numerous evidence corroborates roles of gap junctions/hemichannels in proper kidney development. We analyzed how Dab1 gene functional silencing influences expression and localization of Cx37, Cx40, Cx43, Cx45, Panx1 and renin in postnatal kidneys of yotari mice, by using immunohistochemistry and electron microscopy. Dab1 Δ102/221 might lead to the activation of c-Src tyrosine kinase, causing the upregulation of Cx43 in the medulla of yotari mice. The expression of renin was more prominent in yotari mice (p < 0.001). Renin granules were unusually present inside the vascular walls of glomeruli capillaries, in proximal and distal convoluted tubules and in the medulla. Disfunction of Cx40 is likely responsible for increased atypically positioned renin cells which release renin in an uncontrolled fashion, but this doesn't rule out simultaneous involvement of other Cxs, such as Cx45 which was significantly increased in the yotari cortex. The decreased Cx37 expression in yotari medulla might contribute to hypertension reduction provoked by high renin expression. These findings imply the relevance of Cxs/Panx1 as markers of impaired kidney function (high renin) in yotari mice and that they have a role in the preservation of intercellular signaling and implicate connexopathies as the cause of premature death of yotari mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirela Lozić
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, University of Split School of Medicine, 21000 Split, Croatia; (M.L.); (N.F.); (M.J.); (I.K.); (B.B.); (I.Š.); (N.K.); (A.R.); (M.S.-B.)
| | - Natalija Filipović
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, University of Split School of Medicine, 21000 Split, Croatia; (M.L.); (N.F.); (M.J.); (I.K.); (B.B.); (I.Š.); (N.K.); (A.R.); (M.S.-B.)
| | - Marija Jurić
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, University of Split School of Medicine, 21000 Split, Croatia; (M.L.); (N.F.); (M.J.); (I.K.); (B.B.); (I.Š.); (N.K.); (A.R.); (M.S.-B.)
| | - Ivona Kosović
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, University of Split School of Medicine, 21000 Split, Croatia; (M.L.); (N.F.); (M.J.); (I.K.); (B.B.); (I.Š.); (N.K.); (A.R.); (M.S.-B.)
| | - Benjamin Benzon
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, University of Split School of Medicine, 21000 Split, Croatia; (M.L.); (N.F.); (M.J.); (I.K.); (B.B.); (I.Š.); (N.K.); (A.R.); (M.S.-B.)
| | - Ivana Šolić
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, University of Split School of Medicine, 21000 Split, Croatia; (M.L.); (N.F.); (M.J.); (I.K.); (B.B.); (I.Š.); (N.K.); (A.R.); (M.S.-B.)
| | - Nela Kelam
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, University of Split School of Medicine, 21000 Split, Croatia; (M.L.); (N.F.); (M.J.); (I.K.); (B.B.); (I.Š.); (N.K.); (A.R.); (M.S.-B.)
| | - Anita Racetin
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, University of Split School of Medicine, 21000 Split, Croatia; (M.L.); (N.F.); (M.J.); (I.K.); (B.B.); (I.Š.); (N.K.); (A.R.); (M.S.-B.)
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, University of Mostar, 88000 Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Koichiro Watanabe
- Department of Anatomy, Shiga University of Medical Science, Ötsu 520-2192, Japan; (K.W.); (Y.K.)
| | - Yu Katsuyama
- Department of Anatomy, Shiga University of Medical Science, Ötsu 520-2192, Japan; (K.W.); (Y.K.)
| | - Masaki Ogata
- Division of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Tohoku Medical and Pharmaceutical University, Sendai, 981-Miyagi 8558, Japan;
| | - Mirna Saraga-Babić
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, University of Split School of Medicine, 21000 Split, Croatia; (M.L.); (N.F.); (M.J.); (I.K.); (B.B.); (I.Š.); (N.K.); (A.R.); (M.S.-B.)
| | - Katarina Vukojević
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, University of Split School of Medicine, 21000 Split, Croatia; (M.L.); (N.F.); (M.J.); (I.K.); (B.B.); (I.Š.); (N.K.); (A.R.); (M.S.-B.)
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, University of Mostar, 88000 Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
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13
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Kosovic I, Filipovic N, Benzon B, Bocina I, Glavina Durdov M, Vukojevic K, Saraga M, Saraga-Babic M. Connexin Signaling in the Juxtaglomerular Apparatus (JGA) of Developing, Postnatal Healthy and Nephrotic Human Kidneys. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E8349. [PMID: 33172216 PMCID: PMC7664435 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21218349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Revised: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Our study analyzed the expression pattern of different connexins (Cxs) and renin positive cells in the juxtaglomerular apparatus (JGA) of developing, postnatal healthy human kidneys and in nephrotic syndrome of the Finnish type (CNF), by using double immunofluorescence, electron microscopy and statistical measuring. The JGA contained several cell types connected by Cxs, and consisting of macula densa, extraglomerular mesangium (EM) and juxtaglomerular cells (JC), which release renin involved in renin-angiotensin- aldosteron system (RAS) of arterial blood pressure control. During JGA development, strong Cx40 expression gradually decreased, while expression of Cx37, Cx43 and Cx45 increased, postnatally showing more equalized expression patterning. In parallel, initially dispersed renin cells localized to JGA, and greatly increased expression in postnatal kidneys. In CNF kidneys, increased levels of Cx43, Cx37 and Cx45 co-localized with accumulations of renin cells in JGA. Additionally, they reappeared in extraglomerular mesangial cells, indicating association between return to embryonic Cxs patterning and pathologically changed kidney tissue. Based on the described Cxs and renin expression patterning, we suggest involvement of Cx40 primarily in the formation of JGA in developing kidneys, while Cx37, Cx43 and Cx45 might participate in JGA signal transfer important for postnatal maintenance of kidney function and blood pressure control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivona Kosovic
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, University of Split, 21000 Split, Croatia; (I.K.); (N.F.); (B.B.); (K.V.)
| | - Natalija Filipovic
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, University of Split, 21000 Split, Croatia; (I.K.); (N.F.); (B.B.); (K.V.)
| | - Benjamin Benzon
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, University of Split, 21000 Split, Croatia; (I.K.); (N.F.); (B.B.); (K.V.)
| | - Ivana Bocina
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Split, 21000 Split, Croatia;
| | - Merica Glavina Durdov
- Department of Pathology, University Hospital in Split, School of Medicine, University of Split, 21000 Split, Croatia;
| | - Katarina Vukojevic
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, University of Split, 21000 Split, Croatia; (I.K.); (N.F.); (B.B.); (K.V.)
| | - Marijan Saraga
- Department of Paediatrics, University Hospital in Split, School of Medicine, University of Split, 21000 Split, Croatia;
| | - Mirna Saraga-Babic
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, University of Split, 21000 Split, Croatia; (I.K.); (N.F.); (B.B.); (K.V.)
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14
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Enes ALT, Vicente C, Grégio JV, Clecêncio CG, do Amaral MEC, de Oliveira CA. Regulation of connexins genes expression contributes to reestablishes tissue homeostasis in a renovascular hypertension model. Heliyon 2020; 6:e05406. [PMID: 33163681 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2020.e05406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Revised: 09/22/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Connexins (Cx) are essential for cardiovascular regulation and maintenance of cardio-renal response involving the natriuretic peptide family. Changes in the expression of connexins promote intercellular communication dysfunction and may induce hypertension, atherosclerosis, and several other vascular diseases. This study analyzed the expression of the genes involved in the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) and the relation of the connexins gene expression with the renovascular hypertension 2K1C in different tissues. The insertion of a silver clip induced renovascular hypertension 2K1C into the left renal artery. Biochemical measurements were made using commercial kits. Gene expression was evaluated in the liver, heart, and kidneys by RT-PCR. The genes investigated were LDLr, Hmgcr, Agt, Ren, Ace, Agtr1a, Anp, Bnp, Npr1, Cx26, Cx32, Cx37, Cx40 and Cx43. All genes involved in the RAS presented increased transcriptional levels in the 2K1C group, except hepatic Agt. The natriuretic peptides (Anp; Bnp) and the receptor genes (Npr1) appeared to increase in the heart, however, Npr1 decreased in the kidneys. In hepatic tissue, hypertension promoted increased expression of Cx32, Cx37, and Cx40 genes however, Cx26 and Cx43 genes were not influenced. Expression was upregulated for Cx37 and Cx43 in cardiac tissue in the 2K1C group, but Cx40 did not demonstrate any difference between groups. The stenotic kidney showed an upregulated expression for Cx37 vs Sham and contralateral kidney, although Cx40 and Cx43 were downregulated. Hypertension did not modify the transcriptional expression of Cx26 and Cx32. Therefore, this study indicated that RAS and cardiac response were regulated transcriptionally by renovascular hypertension 2K1C. Moreover, the results of connexin gene expression demonstrated differential transcriptional regulation in different tissues studied and suggest a relationship between cardiac and renal physiological changes as an adaptive mechanism to the hypertensive state.
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15
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Kosovic I, Filipovic N, Benzon B, Vukojevic K, Saraga M, Glavina Durdov M, Bocina I, Saraga-Babic M. Spatio-temporal patterning of different connexins in developing and postnatal human kidneys and in nephrotic syndrome of the Finnish type (CNF). Sci Rep 2020; 10:8756. [PMID: 32471989 PMCID: PMC7260365 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-65777-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [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: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 05/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Connexins (Cxs) are membrane-spanning proteins which enable flow of information important for kidney homeostasis. Changes in their spatiotemporal patterning characterize blood vessel abnormalities and chronic kidney diseases (CKD). We analysed spatiotemporal expression of Cx37, Cx40, Cx43 and Cx45 in nephron and glomerular cells of developing, postnatal kidneys, and nephrotic syndrome of the Finnish type (CNF) by using immunohistochemistry, statistical methods and electron microscopy. During kidney development, strong Cx45 expression in proximal tubules and decreasing expression in glomeruli was observed. In developing distal nephron, Cx37 and Cx40 showed moderate-to-strong expression, while weak Cx43 expression gradually increased. Cx45/Cx40 co-localized in mesangial and granular cells. Cx43 /Cx45 co-localized in podocytes, mesangial and parietal epithelial cells, and with podocyte markers (synaptopodin, nephrin). Different Cxs co-expressed with endothelial (CD31) and VSMC (α -SMA) markers in vascular walls. Peak signalling of Cx37, Cx43 and Cx40 accompanied kidney nephrogenesis, while strongest Cx45 signalling paralleled nephron maturation. Spatiotemporal Cxs patterning indicate participation of Cx45 in differentiation of proximal tubules, and Cx43, Cx37 and Cx40 in distal tubules differentiation. CNF characterized disorganized Cx45 expression in proximal tubules, increased Cx43 expression in distal tubules and overall elevation of Cx40 and Cx37, while Cx40 co-localized with increased number of interstitial myofibroblasts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivona Kosovic
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, University of Split, Split, Croatia
| | - Natalija Filipovic
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, University of Split, Split, Croatia
| | - Benjamin Benzon
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, University of Split, Split, Croatia
| | - Katarina Vukojevic
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, University of Split, Split, Croatia.,Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, University of Mostar, Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Marijan Saraga
- Department of Paediatrics, University Hospital in Split, School of Medicine, University of Split, Split, Croatia
| | - Merica Glavina Durdov
- Department of Pathology, University Hospital in Split, School of Medicine, University of Split, Split, Croatia
| | - Ivana Bocina
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Split, Split, Croatia
| | - Mirna Saraga-Babic
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, University of Split, Split, Croatia.
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16
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Delvaeye T, De Smet MAJ, Verwaerde S, Decrock E, Czekaj A, Vandenbroucke RE, Lemeire K, Gonçalves A, Declercq W, Vandenabeele P, Krysko DV, Leybaert L. Blocking connexin43 hemichannels protects mice against tumour necrosis factor-induced inflammatory shock. Sci Rep 2019; 9:16623. [PMID: 31719598 PMCID: PMC6851386 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-52900-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [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: 07/25/2019] [Accepted: 10/22/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Upon intravenous injection of tumour necrosis factor (TNF) in mice, a systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) is initiated, characterized by an acute cytokine storm and induction of vascular hyperpermeability. Connexin43 hemichannels have been implicated in various pathological conditions, e.g. ischemia and inflammation, and can lead to detrimental cellular outcomes. Here, we explored whether targeting connexin43 hemichannels could alleviate TNF-induced endothelial barrier dysfunction and lethality in SIRS. Therefore, we verified whether administration of connexin43-targeting-peptides affected survival, body temperature and vascular permeability in vivo. In vitro, TNF-effects on connexin43 hemichannel function were investigated by single-channel studies and Ca2+-imaging. Blocking connexin43 hemichannels with TAT-Gap19 protected mice against TNF-induced mortality, hypothermia and vascular leakage, while enhancing connexin43 hemichannel function with TAT-CT9 provoked opposite sensitizing effects. In vitro patch-clamp studies revealed that TNF acutely activated connexin43 hemichannel opening in endothelial cells, which was promoted by CT9, and inhibited by Gap19 and intracellular Ca2+-buffering. In vivo experiments aimed at buffering intracellular Ca2+, and pharmacologically targeting Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase-II, a known modulator of endothelial barrier integrity, demonstrated their involvement in permeability alterations. Our results demonstrate significant benefits of inhibiting connexin43 hemichannels to counteract TNF-induced SIRS-associated vascular permeability and lethality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tinneke Delvaeye
- VIB Center for Inflammation Research, Ghent, Belgium.,Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.,Department of Basic and Applied Medical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Maarten A J De Smet
- Department of Basic and Applied Medical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Stijn Verwaerde
- Department of Basic and Applied Medical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Elke Decrock
- Department of Basic and Applied Medical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Aleksandra Czekaj
- VIB Center for Inflammation Research, Ghent, Belgium.,Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Roosmarijn E Vandenbroucke
- VIB Center for Inflammation Research, Ghent, Belgium.,Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Kelly Lemeire
- VIB Center for Inflammation Research, Ghent, Belgium.,Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Amanda Gonçalves
- VIB Center for Inflammation Research, Ghent, Belgium.,Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.,VIB BioImaging Core, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Wim Declercq
- VIB Center for Inflammation Research, Ghent, Belgium.,Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Peter Vandenabeele
- VIB Center for Inflammation Research, Ghent, Belgium. .,Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium. .,Methusalem Program, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Dmitri V Krysko
- Department of Human Structure and Repair, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Luc Leybaert
- Department of Basic and Applied Medical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.
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17
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Gómez GI, Velarde V, Sáez JC. Role of a RhoA/ROCK-Dependent Pathway on Renal Connexin43 Regulation in the Angiotensin II-Induced Renal Damage. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:E4408. [PMID: 31500276 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20184408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [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: 08/03/2019] [Revised: 09/03/2019] [Accepted: 09/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
In various models of chronic kidney disease, the amount and localization of Cx43 in the nephron is known to increase, but the intracellular pathways that regulate these changes have not been identified. Therefore, we proposed that: "In the model of renal damage induced by infusion of angiotensin II (AngII), a RhoA/ROCK-dependent pathway, is activated and regulates the abundance of renal Cx43". In rats, we evaluated: 1) the time-point where the renal damage induced by AngII is no longer reversible; and 2) the involvement of a RhoA/ROCK-dependent pathway and its relationship with the amount of Cx43 in this irreversible stage. Systolic blood pressure (SBP) and renal function (urinary protein/urinary creatinine: Uprot/UCrea) were evaluated as systemic and organ outcomes, respectively. In kidney tissue, we also evaluated: 1) oxidative stress (amount of thiobarbituric acid reactive species), 2) inflammation (immunoperoxidase detection of the inflammatory markers ED-1 and IL-1β), 3) fibrosis (immune detection of type III collagen; Col III) and 4) activity of RhoA/ROCK (amount of phosphorylated MYPT1; p-MYPT1). The ratio Uprot/UCrea, SBP, oxidative stress, inflammation, amount of Cx43 and p-MYPT1 remained high 2 weeks after suspending AngII treatment in rats treated for 4 weeks with AngII. These responses were not observed in rats treated with AngII for less than 4 weeks, in which all measurements returned spontaneously close to the control values after suspending AngII treatment. Rats treated with AngII for 6 weeks and co-treated for the last 4 weeks with Fasudil, an inhibitor of ROCK, showed high SBP but did not present renal damage or increased amount of renal Cx43. Therefore, renal damage induced by AngII correlates with the activation of RhoA/ROCK and the increase in Cx43 amounts and can be prevented by inhibitors of this pathway.
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18
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Xiong G, Tang W, Zhang D, He D, Wei G, Atala A, Liang XJ, Bleyer AJ, Bleyer ME, Yu J, Aloi JA, Ma JX, Furdui CM, Zhang Y. Impaired Regeneration Potential in Urinary Stem Cells Diagnosed from the Patients with Diabetic Nephropathy. Theranostics 2019; 9:4221-4232. [PMID: 31281543 PMCID: PMC6592174 DOI: 10.7150/thno.34050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [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: 02/12/2019] [Accepted: 04/03/2019] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Stem cells present in urine possess regenerative capacity to repair kidney injury. However, the unique characteristics of urinary stem cells (USC) from patients with diabetic nephropathy (d-USC) are unknown. The goal of this study was to investigate stemness properties in cell phenotype and regenerative potential of d-USC, compared to USC from healthy individuals. Methods: Thirty-six urine samples collected from patients (n=12, age range 60-75 years) with diabetic nephropathy (stages 3-4 stage chronic kidney disease [CKD]) were compared with 30 urine samples from healthy age-matched donors (n=10, age range 60-74 years). Results: There were approximately six times as many cells in urine samples from patients with diabetic nephropathy, including twice as many USC clones as healthy donors. However, approximately 70% of d-USC had weaker regenerative capacity as assessed by cell proliferation, less secretion of paracrine factors, weaker telomerase activity, and lower renal tubular epithelial differentiation potential compared to healthy controls. In addition, the levels of inflammatory factors (IL-1β and Cx43) and apoptotic markers (Caspase-3, and TUNEL) were significantly increased in d-USC compared to USC (p<0.01). Protein levels of autophagy marker (LC3-II) and mTOR signaling molecules (p-mTOR/mTOR, p-Raptor/Raptor and p-S6K1) were significantly lower in patient with diabetic nephropathy (p<0.01). Nevertheless, up to 30% of d-USC possessed similar regenerative capacity as USC from healthy donors. Conclusions: Regenerative performance of most d-USC was significantly lower than normal controls. Understanding the specific changes in d-USC regeneration capability will help elucidate the pathobiology of diabetic nephropathy and lead to prevent USC from diabetic insults, recover the stemness function and also identify novel biomarkers to predict progression of this chronic kidney disease.
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Oliveira M, Lira R, Freire T, Luna C, Martins M, Almeida A, Carvalho S, Cortez E, Stumbo AC, Thole A, Carvalho L. Bone marrow mononuclear cell transplantation rescues the glomerular filtration barrier and epithelial cellular junctions in a renovascular hypertension model. Exp Physiol 2019; 104:740-754. [DOI: 10.1113/ep087330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2018] [Accepted: 02/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Oliveira
- Laboratory of Stem Cell ResearchHistology and Embryology DepartmentBiology InstituteState University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Rafaelle Lira
- Laboratory of Stem Cell ResearchHistology and Embryology DepartmentBiology InstituteState University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Thiago Freire
- Laboratory of Stem Cell ResearchHistology and Embryology DepartmentBiology InstituteState University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Camila Luna
- Laboratory of Stem Cell ResearchHistology and Embryology DepartmentBiology InstituteState University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Marcela Martins
- Laboratory of Stem Cell ResearchHistology and Embryology DepartmentBiology InstituteState University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Aline Almeida
- Laboratory of Stem Cell ResearchHistology and Embryology DepartmentBiology InstituteState University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Simone Carvalho
- Laboratory of Stem Cell ResearchHistology and Embryology DepartmentBiology InstituteState University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Erika Cortez
- Laboratory of Stem Cell ResearchHistology and Embryology DepartmentBiology InstituteState University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Ana Carolina Stumbo
- Laboratory of Stem Cell ResearchHistology and Embryology DepartmentBiology InstituteState University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Alessandra Thole
- Laboratory of Stem Cell ResearchHistology and Embryology DepartmentBiology InstituteState University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Lais Carvalho
- Laboratory of Stem Cell ResearchHistology and Embryology DepartmentBiology InstituteState University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
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Gómez GI, Fernández P, Velarde V, Sáez JC. Angiotensin II-Induced Mesangial Cell Damaged Is Preceded by Cell Membrane Permeabilization Due to Upregulation of Non-Selective Channels. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:E957. [PMID: 29570626 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19040957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [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: 02/16/2018] [Revised: 03/20/2018] [Accepted: 03/20/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Connexin43 (Cx43), pannexin1 (Panx1) and P2X7 receptor (P2X7R) are expressed in kidneys and are known to constitute a feedforward mechanism leading to inflammation in other tissues. However, the possible functional relationship between these membrane channels and their role in damaged renal cells remain unknown. In the present work, we found that MES-13 cells, from a cell line derived from mesangial cells, stimulated with angiotensin II (AngII) developed oxidative stress (OS, thiobarbituric acid reactive species (TBARS) and generated pro-inflammatory cytokines (ELISA; IL-1β and TNF-α). The membrane permeability increased progressively several hours before the latter outcome, which was a response prevented by Losartan, indicating the involvement of AT1 receptors. Western blot analysis showed that the amount of phosphorylated MYPT (a substrate of RhoA/ROCK) and Cx43 increased progressively and in parallel in cells treated with AngII, a response followed by an increase in the amount in Panx1 and P2X7R. Greater membrane permeability was partially explained by opening of Cx43 hemichannels (Cx43 HCs) and Panx1 channels (Panx1 Chs), as well as P2X7Rs activation by extracellular ATP, which was presumably released via Cx HCs and Panx1 Chs. Additionally, inhibition of RhoA/ROCK blocked the progressive increase in membrane permeability, and the remaining response was explained by the other non-selective channels. The rise of activity in the RhoA/ROCK-dependent pathway, as well as in Cx HCs, P2X7R, and to a minor extent in Panx1 Chs led to higher amounts of TBARS and pro-inflammatory cytokines. We propose that AngII-induced mesangial cell damage could be effectively inhibited by concomitantly inhibiting the RhoA/ROCK-dependent pathway and one or more non-selective channel(s) activated through this pathway.
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Zhao Y, Li G, Wang Y, Liu Z. Alteration of Connexin43 expression in a rat model of obesity-related glomerulopathy. Exp Mol Pathol 2017; 104:12-18. [PMID: 29246788 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexmp.2017.11.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [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: 07/28/2017] [Revised: 10/31/2017] [Accepted: 11/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
It is accepted that alteration of connexin43 (Cx43) expression in glomeruli is a common pathological response in several forms of kidney diseases. To date, however the change of the Cx43 expression in obesity-related glomerulopathy (ORG) has not been reported. In this study, the alteration of Cx43 expression in the glomeruli of rat with ORG was defined. Five-week-old rats were fed with high-fat diet for 18weeks to establish the ORG model, then the histological change of glomeruli, the foot process effacement of podocyte, the markers for podocyte injury (nephrin,podocin and WT1) and Cx43 expression in glomeruli were examined respectively. The results demonstrated metabolic disorder, hyperinsulinemia, systemic inflammation and microalbuminuria in ORG rats. There was significant hypertrophy, glomerular expansion and inflammatory cell infiltration in the kidney of ORG rats compared to the control group. Significant foot process effacement of the podocyte in the glomeruli, nephrin loss and density reduction were shown in the ORG rats, and Cx43 expression was significant upregulated in glomeruli of ORG rats compared to the control group. The results indicate the correlation of overexpressed Cx43 with the obesity related renal inflammation and suggest that Cx43 might be a potential target in the development of obesity related glomerulopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongli Zhao
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, China.
| | - Guohua Li
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Yuchuan Wang
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Zhengjuan Liu
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
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22
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Kavvadas P, Abed A, Poulain C, Authier F, Labéjof LP, Calmont A, Afieri C, Prakoura N, Dussaule JC, Chatziantoniou C, Chadjichristos CE. Decreased Expression of Connexin 43 Blunts the Progression of Experimental GN. J Am Soc Nephrol 2017; 28:2915-2930. [PMID: 28667079 DOI: 10.1681/asn.2016111211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2016] [Accepted: 05/05/2017] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
GN refers to a variety of renal pathologies that often progress to ESRD, but the molecular mechanisms underlying this progression remain incompletely characterized. Here, we determined whether dysregulated expression of the gap junction protein connexin 43, which has been observed in the progression of renal disease, contributes to GN progression. Immunostaining revealed de novo expression of connexin 43 in damaged glomeruli in patients with glomerular diseases as well as in mice after induction of experimental GN. Notably, 2 weeks after the induction of GN with nephrotoxic serum, mice with a heterozygous deletion of the connexin 43 gene (connexin 43+/-) had proteinuria, BUN, and serum creatinine levels significantly lower than those of wild-type animals. Additionally, the connexin 43+/- mice showed less crescent formation, tubular dilation, monocyte infiltration, and interstitial renal fibrosis. Treatment of cultured podocytes with connexin 43-specific blocking peptides attenuated TGF-β-induced cytoskeletal and morphologic changes and apoptosis as did treatment with the purinergic blocker suramin. Finally, therapeutic treatment of GN mice with connexin 43-specific antisense oligodeoxynucleotide improved functional and structural renal parameters. These findings suggest that crosstalk between connexin 43 and purinergic signaling contributes to podocyte damage in GN. Given that this protein is highly induced in individuals with glomerular diseases, connexin 43 may be a novel target for therapeutic treatment of GN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panagiotis Kavvadas
- National Institute for Health and Medical Research Unité Mixte de Recherche-S1155, Batiment Recherche, Tenon Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Ahmed Abed
- National Institute for Health and Medical Research Unité Mixte de Recherche-S1155, Batiment Recherche, Tenon Hospital, Paris, France.,Sorbonne Universites, University Pierre et Marie Curie University Paris 6, Paris, France
| | - Coralie Poulain
- National Institute for Health and Medical Research Unité Mixte de Recherche-S1155, Batiment Recherche, Tenon Hospital, Paris, France.,University René Descartes, Paris, France.,University Denis Diderot, Paris, France
| | - Florence Authier
- National Institute for Health and Medical Research Unité Mixte de Recherche-S1155, Batiment Recherche, Tenon Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Lise-Paule Labéjof
- National Institute for Health and Medical Research Unité Mixte de Recherche-S1155, Batiment Recherche, Tenon Hospital, Paris, France.,Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz, Ilhéus, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Amelie Calmont
- National Institute for Health and Medical Research Unité Mixte de Recherche-S1155, Batiment Recherche, Tenon Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Carlo Afieri
- National Institute for Health and Medical Research Unité Mixte de Recherche-S1155, Batiment Recherche, Tenon Hospital, Paris, France.,Unit of Nephrology Dialysis and Kidney Transplantation, Fondazione Istituto Di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico Ca Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico di Milano, Milan, Italy; and
| | - Niki Prakoura
- National Institute for Health and Medical Research Unité Mixte de Recherche-S1155, Batiment Recherche, Tenon Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Jean-Claude Dussaule
- National Institute for Health and Medical Research Unité Mixte de Recherche-S1155, Batiment Recherche, Tenon Hospital, Paris, France.,Sorbonne Universites, University Pierre et Marie Curie University Paris 6, Paris, France.,Department of Physiology, Saint Antoine Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Christos Chatziantoniou
- National Institute for Health and Medical Research Unité Mixte de Recherche-S1155, Batiment Recherche, Tenon Hospital, Paris, France.,Sorbonne Universites, University Pierre et Marie Curie University Paris 6, Paris, France
| | - Christos E Chadjichristos
- National Institute for Health and Medical Research Unité Mixte de Recherche-S1155, Batiment Recherche, Tenon Hospital, Paris, France; .,Sorbonne Universites, University Pierre et Marie Curie University Paris 6, Paris, France
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23
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Amdisen C, Keller AK, Hansen RS, Nørregaard R, Krag SP, Møldrup U, Pedersen M, Jespersen B, Birn H. Testing Danegaptide Effects on Kidney Function after Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury in a New Porcine Two Week Model. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0164109. [PMID: 27760220 PMCID: PMC5070773 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0164109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [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: 04/19/2016] [Accepted: 09/20/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Ischemia/reperfusion injury (I/R-I) is a leading cause of acute kidney injury (AKI) and is associated with increased mortality. Danegaptide is a selective modifier of the gap junction protein connexion 43. It has cytoprotective as well as anti-arrhythmic properties and has been shown to reduce the size of myocardial infarct in pigs. The aim of this study was to investigate the ischemia-protective effect of Danegaptide in a porcine renal I/R-I model with two weeks follow up. METHODS Unilateral renal I/R-I was induced in pigs by clamping the left renal artery over a two hour period. The model allowed examination of renal blood flow by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and the measurement of single kidney GFR two weeks after injury. Eleven animals were randomized to Danegaptide-infusion while nine animals received placebo. Kidney histology and urinary neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) excretion were included as markers of AKI. RESULTS Unilateral kidney I/R-I resulted in an immediate ~50% GFR reduction, associated with a four-fold increase in urinary NGAL-excretion. Fourteen days after I/R-I, the total GFR was ~75% of baseline with a significantly lower GFR in the injured left kidney compared to the right kidney. No differences in GFR were observed between the treated and non-treated animals immediately after I/R-I or at Day 14. Furthermore, no differences were observed in the urinary excretion of NGAL, renal blood flow or other markers of renal function. CONCLUSIONS As expected this porcine renal I/R-I model was associated with reduced GFR two weeks after injury. Danegaptide did not improve renal function after I/R-I.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chris Amdisen
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Renal Medicine. Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- * E-mail:
| | - Anna K. Keller
- Department of Urology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | - Rikke Nørregaard
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | - Ulla Møldrup
- Department of Urology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | - Bente Jespersen
- Department of Renal Medicine. Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Henrik Birn
- Department of Renal Medicine. Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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Willebrords J, Crespo Yanguas S, Maes M, Decrock E, Wang N, Leybaert L, Kwak BR, Green CR, Cogliati B, Vinken M. Connexins and their channels in inflammation. Crit Rev Biochem Mol Biol 2016; 51:413-439. [PMID: 27387655 DOI: 10.1080/10409238.2016.1204980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [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: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Inflammation may be caused by a variety of factors and is a hallmark of a plethora of acute and chronic diseases. The purpose of inflammation is to eliminate the initial cell injury trigger, to clear out dead cells from damaged tissue and to initiate tissue regeneration. Despite the wealth of knowledge regarding the involvement of cellular communication in inflammation, studies on the role of connexin-based channels in this process have only begun to emerge in the last few years. In this paper, a state-of-the-art overview of the effects of inflammation on connexin signaling is provided. Vice versa, the involvement of connexins and their channels in inflammation will be discussed by relying on studies that use a variety of experimental tools, such as genetically modified animals, small interfering RNA and connexin-based channel blockers. A better understanding of the importance of connexin signaling in inflammation may open up towards clinical perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joost Willebrords
- a Department of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology , Vrije Universiteit Brussel , Brussels , Belgium
| | - Sara Crespo Yanguas
- a Department of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology , Vrije Universiteit Brussel , Brussels , Belgium
| | - Michaël Maes
- a Department of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology , Vrije Universiteit Brussel , Brussels , Belgium
| | - Elke Decrock
- b Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Physiology Group , Ghent University , Ghent , Belgium
| | - Nan Wang
- b Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Physiology Group , Ghent University , Ghent , Belgium
| | - Luc Leybaert
- b Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Physiology Group , Ghent University , Ghent , Belgium
| | - Brenda R Kwak
- c Department of Pathology and Immunology and Division of Cardiology , University of Geneva , Geneva , Switzerland
| | - Colin R Green
- d Department of Ophthalmology, New Zealand National Eye Centre , University of Auckland , New Zealand
| | - Bruno Cogliati
- e Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science , University of São Paulo , São Paulo , Brazil
| | - Mathieu Vinken
- a Department of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology , Vrije Universiteit Brussel , Brussels , Belgium
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Sala G, Badalamenti S, Ponticelli C. The Renal Connexome and Possible Roles of Connexins in Kidney Diseases. Am J Kidney Dis 2015; 67:677-87. [PMID: 26613807 DOI: 10.1053/j.ajkd.2015.09.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [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: 04/16/2015] [Accepted: 09/30/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Connexins are membrane-spanning proteins that allow for the formation of cell-to-cell channels and cell-to-extracellular space hemichannels. Many connexin subtypes are expressed in kidney cells. Some mutations in connexin genes have been linked to various human pathologies, including cardiovascular, neurodegenerative, lung, and skin diseases, but the exact role of connexins in kidney disease remains unclear. Some hypotheses about a connection between genetic mutations, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, and the unfolded protein response (UPR) in kidney pathology have been explored. The potential relationship of kidney disease to abnormal production of connexin proteins, mutations in their genes together with ER stress, or the UPR is still a matter of debate. In this scenario, it is tantalizing to speculate about a possible role of connexins in the setting of kidney pathologies that are thought to be caused by a deregulated podocyte protein expression, the so-called podocytopathies. In this article, we give examples of the roles of connexins in kidney (patho)physiology and propose avenues for further research concerning connexins, ER stress, and UPR in podocytopathies that may ultimately help refine drug treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriele Sala
- Nephrology and Dialysis Unit, Humanitas Clinical Research Center, Rozzano (Milano), Italy.
| | - Salvatore Badalamenti
- Nephrology and Dialysis Unit, Humanitas Clinical Research Center, Rozzano (Milano), Italy
| | - Claudio Ponticelli
- Nephrology and Dialysis Unit, Humanitas Clinical Research Center, Rozzano (Milano), Italy
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26
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Yuan D, Sun G, Zhang R, Luo C, Ge M, Luo G, Hei Z. Connexin 43 expressed in endothelial cells modulates monocyte‑endothelial adhesion by regulating cell adhesion proteins. Mol Med Rep 2015; 12:7146-52. [PMID: 26324251 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2015.4273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [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: 11/26/2014] [Accepted: 08/04/2015] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Adhesion between circulating monocytes and vascular endothelial cells is a key initiator of atherosclerosis. In our previous studies, it was demonstrated that the expression of connexin (Cx)43 in monocytes modulates cell adhesion, however, the effects of the expression of Cx43 in endothelial cells remains to be elucidated. Therefore, the present study investigated the role of the expression of Cx43 in endothelial cells in the process of cell adhesion. A total of four different methods with distinct mechanisms were used to change the function and expression of Cx43 channels in human umbilical vein endothelial cells: Cx43 channel inhibitor (oleamide), enhancer (retinoic acid), overexpression of Cx43 by transfection with pcDNA‑Cx43 and knock‑down of the expression of Cx43 by small interfering RNA against Cx43. The results indicated that the upregulation of the expression of Cx43 enhanced monocyte‑endothelial adhesion and this was markedly decreased by downregulation of Cx43. This mechanism was associated with Cx43‑induced expression of vascular cell adhesion molecule‑1 and intercellular cell adhesion molecule‑1. The effects of Cx43 in endothelial cells was independent of Cx37 or Cx40. These experiments suggested that local regulation of endothelial Cx43 expression within the vasculature regulates monocyte‑endothelial adhesion, a critical event in the development of atherosclerosis and other inflammatory pathologies, with baseline adhesion set by the expression of Cx43. This balance may be crucial in controlling leukocyte involvement in inflammatory cascades.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongdong Yuan
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat‑Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510630, P.R. China
| | - Guoliang Sun
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat‑Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510630, P.R. China
| | - Rui Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat‑Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510630, P.R. China
| | - Chenfang Luo
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat‑Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510630, P.R. China
| | - Mian Ge
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat‑Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510630, P.R. China
| | - Gangjian Luo
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat‑Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510630, P.R. China
| | - Ziqing Hei
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat‑Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510630, P.R. China
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27
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Abed AB, Kavvadas P, Chadjichristos CE. Functional roles of connexins and pannexins in the kidney. Cell Mol Life Sci 2015; 72:2869-77. [PMID: 26082183 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-015-1964-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2015] [Accepted: 06/11/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Kidneys are highly complex organs, playing a crucial role in human physiopathology, as they are implicated in vital processes, such as fluid filtration and vasomotor tone regulation. There is growing evidence that gap junctions are major determinants of renal physiopathology. It has been demonstrated that their expression or channel activity may vary depending on physiological and pathological situations within distinct renal compartments. While some studies have focused on the role of connexins in renal physiology, our knowledge regarding the functional relevance of pannexins is still very limited. In this paper, we provide an overview of the involvement of connexins, pannexins and their channels in various physiological processes related to different renal compartments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed B Abed
- INSERM UMR-S1155, Batiment Recherche, Tenon Hospital, 4 rue de la Chine, 75020, Paris, France
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28
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Van Driest SL, McGregor TL, Velez Edwards DR, Saville BR, Kitchner TE, Hebbring SJ, Brilliant M, Jouni H, Kullo IJ, Creech CB, Kannankeril PJ, Vear SI, Brothers KB, Bowton EA, Shaffer CM, Patel N, Delaney JT, Bradford Y, Wilson S, Olson LM, Crawford DC, Potts AL, Ho RH, Roden DM, Denny JC. Genome-Wide Association Study of Serum Creatinine Levels during Vancomycin Therapy. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0127791. [PMID: 26030142 PMCID: PMC4452656 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0127791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2014] [Accepted: 04/18/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Vancomycin, a commonly used antibiotic, can be nephrotoxic. Known risk factors such as age, creatinine clearance, vancomycin dose / dosing interval, and concurrent nephrotoxic medications fail to accurately predict nephrotoxicity. To identify potential genomic risk factors, we performed a genome-wide association study (GWAS) of serum creatinine levels while on vancomycin in 489 European American individuals and validated findings in three independent cohorts totaling 439 European American individuals. In primary analyses, the chromosome 6q22.31 locus was associated with increased serum creatinine levels while on vancomycin therapy (most significant variant rs2789047, risk allele A, β = -0.06, p = 1.1 x 10-7). SNPs in this region had consistent directions of effect in the validation cohorts, with a meta-p of 1.1 x 10-7. Variation in this region on chromosome 6, which includes the genes TBC1D32/C6orf170 and GJA1 (encoding connexin43), may modulate risk of vancomycin-induced kidney injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara L. Van Driest
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine and the Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Tracy L. McGregor
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine and the Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
- Center for Human Genetics Research, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Digna R. Velez Edwards
- Center for Human Genetics Research, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Ben R. Saville
- Department of Biostatistics, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Terrie E. Kitchner
- Center for Human Genetics, Marshfield Clinic, Marshfield, Wisconsin, United States of America
| | - Scott J. Hebbring
- Center for Human Genetics, Marshfield Clinic, Marshfield, Wisconsin, United States of America
| | - Murray Brilliant
- Center for Human Genetics, Marshfield Clinic, Marshfield, Wisconsin, United States of America
| | - Hayan Jouni
- Division of Cardiovascular Diseases, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Iftikhar J. Kullo
- Division of Cardiovascular Diseases, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - C. Buddy Creech
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine and the Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Prince J. Kannankeril
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine and the Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Susan I. Vear
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine and the Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Kyle B. Brothers
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine and the Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Erica A. Bowton
- Institute for Clinical and Translational Research, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Christian M. Shaffer
- Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Neelam Patel
- School of Medicine, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Jessica T. Delaney
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Yuki Bradford
- Center for Human Genetics Research, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Sarah Wilson
- Center for Human Genetics Research, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Lana M. Olson
- Center for Human Genetics Research, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Dana C. Crawford
- Center for Human Genetics Research, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Amy L. Potts
- Department of Pharmaceutical Services, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Richard H. Ho
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine and the Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Dan M. Roden
- Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Josh C. Denny
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
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Reed AM, Kolodecik T, Husain SZ, Gorelick FS. Low pH enhances connexin32 degradation in the pancreatic acinar cell. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2014; 307:G24-32. [PMID: 24812055 PMCID: PMC4080162 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00010.2014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2014] [Accepted: 04/22/2014] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Decreased extracellular pH is observed in a number of clinical conditions and can sensitize to the development and worsen the severity of acute pancreatitis. Because intercellular communication through gap junctions is pH-sensitive and modulates pancreatitis responses, we evaluated the effects of low pH on gap junctions in the rat pancreatic acinar cell. Decreasing extracellular pH from 7.4 to 7.0 significantly inhibited gap junctional intracellular communication. Acidic pH also significantly reduced levels of connexin32, the predominant gap junction protein in acinar cells, and altered its localization. Increased degradation through the proteasomal, lysosomal, and autophagic pathways mediated the decrease in connexin32 under low-pH conditions. These findings provide the first evidence that low extracellular pH can regulate gap junctional intercellular communication by enhancing connexin degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anamika M Reed
- Section of Digestive Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut;
| | - Thomas Kolodecik
- Veterans Affairs Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut; and
| | - Sohail Z Husain
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Fred S Gorelick
- Section of Digestive Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut; Veterans Affairs Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut; and
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Abed A, Toubas J, Kavvadas P, Authier F, Cathelin D, Alfieri C, Boffa JJ, Dussaule JC, Chatziantoniou C, Chadjichristos CE. Targeting connexin 43 protects against the progression of experimental chronic kidney disease in mice. Kidney Int 2014; 86:768-79. [PMID: 24850151 DOI: 10.1038/ki.2014.108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2013] [Revised: 02/17/2014] [Accepted: 02/20/2014] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Excessive recruitment of monocytes and progression of fibrosis are hallmarks of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Recently we reported that the expression of connexin 43 (Cx43) was upregulated in the kidney during experimental nephropathy. To investigate the role of Cx43 in the progression of CKD, we interbred RenTg mice, a genetic model of hypertension-induced CKD, with Cx43+/- mice. The renal cortex of 5-month-old RenTgCx43+/- mice showed a marked decrease of cell adhesion markers leading to reduced monocyte infiltration and interstitial renal fibrosis compared with their littermates. In addition, functional and histological parameters such as albuminuria and glomerulosclerosis were ameliorated in RenTgCx43+/- mice. Interestingly, treatment with Cx43 antisense produced remarkable improvement of renal function and structure in 1-year-old RenTg mice. Similar results were found in Cx43+/- or wild-type mice treated with Cx43 antisense after obstructive nephropathy. Furthermore, in these mice, Cx43 antisense attenuated E-cadherin downregulation and phosphorylation of the transcription factor Sp1 by the ERK pathway resulting in decreased transcription of type I collagen gene. Interestingly, Cx43-specific blocking peptide inhibited monocyte adhesion in activated endothelium and profibrotic pathways in tubular cells. Cx43 was highly increased in biopsies of patients with CKD. Thus, Cx43 may represent a new therapeutic target against the progression of CKD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Abed
- 1] INSERM UMR-S1155, Tenon Hospital, Paris, France [2] Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 6, Paris, France
| | - Julie Toubas
- 1] INSERM UMR-S1155, Tenon Hospital, Paris, France [2] Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 6, Paris, France
| | | | | | | | | | - Jean-Jacques Boffa
- 1] INSERM UMR-S1155, Tenon Hospital, Paris, France [2] Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 6, Paris, France [3] Department of Nephrology, Tenon Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Jean-Claude Dussaule
- 1] INSERM UMR-S1155, Tenon Hospital, Paris, France [2] Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 6, Paris, France [3] Department of Physiology, Saint-Antoine Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Christos Chatziantoniou
- 1] INSERM UMR-S1155, Tenon Hospital, Paris, France [2] Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 6, Paris, France
| | - Christos E Chadjichristos
- 1] INSERM UMR-S1155, Tenon Hospital, Paris, France [2] Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 6, Paris, France
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Abstract
Background Carcinogenesis is widely thought to originate from somatic mutations and an inhibition of growth suppressors, followed by cell proliferation, tissue invasion, and risk of metastasis. Fewer than 10% of all cancers are hereditary; the ratio in gastric (1%), colorectal (3-5%) and breast (8%) cancers is even less. Cancers caused by infection are thought to constitute some 15% of the non-hereditary cancers. Those remaining, 70 to 80%, are called “sporadic,” because they are essentially of unknown etiology. We propose a new paradigm for the origin of the majority of cancers. Presentation of hypothesis Our paradigm postulates that cancer originates following a sequence of events that include (1) a pathogenic stimulus (biological or chemical) followed by (2) chronic inflammation, from which develops (3) fibrosis with associated changes in the cellular microenvironment. From these changes a (4) pre-cancerous niche develops, which triggers the deployment of (5) a chronic stress escape strategy, and when this fails to resolve, (6) a transition of a normal cell to a cancer cell occurs. If we are correct, this paradigm would suggest that the majority of the findings in cancer genetics so far reported are either late events or are epiphenomena that occur after the appearance of the pre-cancerous niche. Testing the hypothesis If, based on experimental and clinical findings presented here, this hypothesis is plausible, then the majority of findings in the genetics of cancer so far reported in the literature are late events or epiphenomena that could have occurred after the development of a PCN. Our model would make clear the need to establish preventive measures long before a cancer becomes clinically apparent. Future research should focus on the intermediate steps of our proposed sequence of events, which will enhance our understanding of the nature of carcinogenesis. Findings on inflammation and fibrosis would be given their warranted importance, with research in anticancer therapies focusing on suppressing the PCN state with very early intervention to detect and quantify any subclinical inflammatory change and to treat all levels of chronic inflammation and prevent fibrotic changes, and so avoid the transition from a normal cell to a cancer cell. Implication of the hypothesis The paradigm proposed here, if proven, spells out a sequence of steps, one or more of which could be interdicted or modulated early in carcinogenesis to prevent or, at a minimum, slow down the progression of many cancers.
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De Bock M, Vandenbroucke RE, Decrock E, Culot M, Cecchelli R, Leybaert L. A new angle on blood-CNS interfaces: A role for connexins? FEBS Lett 2014; 588:1259-70. [DOI: 10.1016/j.febslet.2014.02.060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2014] [Revised: 02/27/2014] [Accepted: 02/28/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Cianciolo R, Yoon L, Krull D, Stokes A, Rodriguez A, Jordan H, Cooper D, Falls JG, Cullen J, Kimbrough C, Berridge B. Gene expression analysis and urinary biomarker assays reveal activation of tubulointerstitial injury pathways in a rodent model of chronic proteinuria (Doxorubicin nephropathy). Nephron Clin Pract 2013; 124:1-10. [PMID: 24248038 DOI: 10.1159/000355542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2012] [Accepted: 09/08/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tubular atrophy and interstitial fibrosis are well-recognized sequelae of chronic proteinuria; however, little is known regarding the molecular pathways activated within tubulointerstitium in chronic proteinuric nephropathies. METHODS To investigate the molecular mechanisms of proteinuria-associated tubulointerstitial (TI) disease, doxorubicin nephropathy was induced in rats. Progression of disease was monitored with weekly urinary biomarker assays. Because histopathology revealed multifocal TI injury, immunodirected laser capture microdissection was used to identify and isolate injured proximal tubules, as indicated by kidney injury molecule-1 immunolabeling. Adjacent interstitial cells were harvested separately. Gene expression microarray, manual annotation of gene lists, and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis were performed. A subset of the regulated transcripts was validated by quantitative PCR and immunohistochemistry. RESULTS Severe proteinuria preceded tubular injury biomarkers by 1 week. Histology revealed multifocal, mild TI damage at 3 weeks, which progressed in severity at 5 weeks. Affymetrix microarray analysis revealed tissue-specific regulation of gene expression. Manual annotation of gene lists, gene set enrichment analysis, and urinary biomarker assays revealed similarities to pathways activated in direct TI injuries. This suggests commonalities amongst the molecular mechanisms of TI injury secondary to proteinuria, ischemia-reperfusion, and nephrotoxicity. © 2013 S. Karger AG, Basel.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Cianciolo
- Safety Assessment, GlaxoSmithKline, Research Triangle Park, N.C., USA
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Hejmej A, Górowska E, Kotula-Balak M, Chojnacka K, Zarzycka M, Zając J, Bilińska B. Androgen signaling disruption during fetal and postnatal development affects androgen receptor and connexin 43 expression and distribution in adult boar prostate. Biomed Res Int 2013; 2013:407678. [PMID: 24151599 DOI: 10.1155/2013/407678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2013] [Revised: 07/29/2013] [Accepted: 08/07/2013] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
To date, limited knowledge exists regarding the role of the androgen signaling during specific periods of development in the regulation of androgen receptor (AR) and connexin 43 (Cx43) in adult prostate. Therefore, in this study we examined mRNA and protein expression, and tissue distribution of AR and Cx43 in adult boar prostates following fetal (GD20), neonatal (PD2), and prepubertal (PD90) exposure to an antiandrogen flutamide (50 mg/kg bw). In GD20 and PD2 males we found the reduction of the luminal compartment, inflammatory changes, decreased AR and increased Cx43 expression, and altered localization of both proteins. Moreover, enhanced apoptosis and reduced proliferation were detected in the prostates of these animals. In PD90 males the alterations were less evident, except that Cx43 expression was markedly upregulated. The results presented herein indicate that in boar androgen action during early fetal and neonatal periods plays a key role in the maintenance of normal phenotype and functions of prostatic cells at adulthood. Furthermore, we demonstrated that modulation of Cx43 expression in the prostate could serve as a sensitive marker of hormonal disruption during different developmental stages.
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Hieda K, Hayashi S, Kim JH, Murakami G, Cho BH, Matsubara A. Spatial relationship between expression of cytokeratin-19 and that of connexin-43 in human fetal kidney. Anat Cell Biol 2013; 46:32-8. [PMID: 23560234 PMCID: PMC3615610 DOI: 10.5115/acb.2013.46.1.32] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2013] [Revised: 02/04/2013] [Accepted: 02/04/2013] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Connexin-43, a major gap junction protein, and cytokeratin-19, one of the intermediate filament keratins, are known to be markers of well-differentiated epithelium. In this study, we investigated the expression of these markers in the head region, lungs, and abdominal organs of 10 human mid-term fetuses. The expression of connexin-43 was found to be restricted to the dura mater, kidney, and adrenal cortex. In the kidney, we found a clear site-dependent difference in the expression pattern of these markers: connexin-43 expression was observed in the tubules of the renal cortex whereas cytokeratin-19 was strongly expressed in the collecting ducts and renal pelvis. This difference remained unchanged throughout the fetal stages examined. Immunoreactivity was not observed for either of the markers in the intrarenal vessels, including the glomeruli, and mesangial cells. Connexin-43 expression seemed to be restricted to the metanephric vesicle-derived structures that differentiate in the urogenital ridge of the splanchnic mesoderm. The adrenal cortex also originates from the same para-aortic mesoderm. In contrast, in the urogenital organs, cytokeratin-19 seemed to be expressed in ducts derived from the urogenital sinus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keisuke Hieda
- Department of Urology, Hiroshima University School of Medicine, Hiroshima, Japan
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Mayan MD, Carpintero-Fernandez P, Gago-Fuentes R, Martinez-de-Ilarduya O, Wang HZ, Valiunas V, Brink P, Blanco FJ. Human articular chondrocytes express multiple gap junction proteins: differential expression of connexins in normal and osteoarthritic cartilage. Am J Pathol 2013; 182:1337-46. [PMID: 23416160 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2012.12.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2012] [Revised: 11/25/2012] [Accepted: 12/17/2012] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common joint disease and involves progressive degeneration of articular cartilage. The aim of this study was to investigate if chondrocytes from human articular cartilage express gap junction proteins called connexins (Cxs). We show that human chondrocytes in tissue express Cx43, Cx45, Cx32, and Cx46. We also find that primary chondrocytes from adults retain the capacity to form functional voltage-dependent gap junctions. Immunohistochemistry experiments in cartilage from OA patients revealed significantly elevated levels of Cx43 and Cx45 in the superficial zone and down through the next approximately 1000 μm of tissue. These zones corresponded with regions damaged in OA that also had high levels of proliferative cell nuclear antigen. An increased number of Cxs may help explain the increased proliferation of cells in clusters that finally lead to tissue homeostasis loss. Conversely, high levels of Cxs in OA cartilage reflect the increased number of adjacent cells in clusters that are able to interact directly by gap junctions as compared with hemichannels on single cells in normal cartilage. Our data provide strong evidence that OA patients have a loss of the usual ordered distribution of Cxs in the damaged zones and that the reductions in Cx43 levels are accompanied by the loss of correct Cx localization in the nondamaged areas.
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Hernández-Salinas R, Vielma AZ, Arismendi MN, Boric MP, Sáez JC, Velarde V. Boldine prevents renal alterations in diabetic rats. J Diabetes Res 2013; 2013:593672. [PMID: 24416726 PMCID: PMC3876708 DOI: 10.1155/2013/593672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2013] [Accepted: 11/06/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Diabetic nephropathy alters both structure and function of the kidney. These alterations are associated with increased levels of reactive oxygen species, matrix proteins, and proinflammatory molecules. Inflammation decreases gap junctional communication and increases hemichannel activity leading to increased membrane permeability and altering tissue homeostasis. Since current treatments for diabetic nephropathy do not prevent renal damage, we postulated an alternative treatment with boldine, an alkaloid obtained from boldo with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and hypoglycemic effects. Streptozotocin-induced diabetic and control rats were treated or not treated with boldine (50 mg/Kg/day) for ten weeks. In addition, mesangial cells were cultured under control conditions or in high glucose concentration plus proinflammatory cytokines, with or without boldine (100 µmol/L). Boldine treatment in diabetic animals prevented the increase in glycemia, blood pressure, renal thiobarbituric acid reactive substances and the urinary protein/creatinine ratio. Boldine also reduced alterations in matrix proteins and markers of renal damage. In mesangial cells, boldine prevented the increase in oxidative stress, the decrease in gap junctional communication, and the increase in cell permeability due to connexin hemichannel activity induced by high glucose and proinflammatory cytokines but did not block gap junction channels. Thus boldine prevented both renal and cellular alterations and could be useful for preventing tissue damage in diabetic subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romina Hernández-Salinas
- Departamento de Fisiología, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Alameda Bernardo O'Higgins, No. 340, 6513677 Santiago, Chile
| | - Alejandra Z. Vielma
- Departamento de Fisiología, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Alameda Bernardo O'Higgins, No. 340, 6513677 Santiago, Chile
| | - Marlene N. Arismendi
- Departamento de Fisiología, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Alameda Bernardo O'Higgins, No. 340, 6513677 Santiago, Chile
| | - Mauricio P. Boric
- Departamento de Fisiología, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Alameda Bernardo O'Higgins, No. 340, 6513677 Santiago, Chile
| | - Juan C. Sáez
- Departamento de Fisiología, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Alameda Bernardo O'Higgins, No. 340, 6513677 Santiago, Chile
- Instituto Milenio, Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencias de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
- *Juan C. Sáez: and
| | - Victoria Velarde
- Departamento de Fisiología, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Alameda Bernardo O'Higgins, No. 340, 6513677 Santiago, Chile
- *Victoria Velarde:
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Abstract
Because of their critical role as goalkeepers of hepatic homeostasis, gap junctions are frequent targets in liver disease. This concept has been demonstrated on many occasions in the light of hepatocarcinogenesis. Relatively little focus has been put on the fate of gap junctions in other liver pathologies, including hepatitis, liver fibrosis and cirrhosis, cholestasis and hepatic ischemia and reperfusion injury. The present paper provides an in-depth description of the multiple changes in expression, localization and function of connexins, the molecular constituents of gap junctions. The use of connexins as biomarkers and therapeutic targets in liver disease is also illustrated.
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