Myeloid-Specific PTP1B Deficiency Attenuates Inflammation-Induced and Ovariectomy-Induced Bone Loss in Mice by Inhibiting Osteoclastogenesis

The differentiation and activity of bone-resorbing osteoclasts are tightly regulated to maintain the homeostasis of healthy bones. In this study, the role of protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) during osteoclastogenesis was studied in myeloid-specific Ptpn1-deficient (conditional knockout [cKO]) mice. The mRNA and protein expression of PTP1B increased during the formation of mature osteoclasts from mouse bone macrophages on stimulation with macrophage-colony stimulating factor (M-CSF) and receptor activator of nuclear factor κB ligand (RANKL). The Ptpn1 cKO mice exhibited increased femoral trabecular bone volume with a decreased number and activity of osteoclasts compared with control mice. The in vitro culture of osteoclast precursors corroborated the inhibition of osteoclastogenesis in cKO cells compared with control, with concomitantly decreased RANKL-dependent proliferation, lower osteoclast marker gene expression, reduced nuclear expression of nuclear factor of activated T cells cytoplasmic 1 (NFATc1), diminished intracellular Ca²⁺ oscillations, and increased phosphorylation of proto-oncogene tyrosine-protein kinase Src on inhibitory tyrosine residue. In a ligature-induced periodontitis model, Ptpn1 cKO mice exhibited attenuated osteoclastogenesis and alveolar bone loss following the induction of inflammation. The Ptpn1-deficient mice were similarly protected from ovariectomy-induced bone loss compared with control mice. These results provide a novel regulatory role of PTP1B in osteoclastogenesis and suggest a potential as a therapeutic target for bone-lytic diseases. © 2021 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).

Hop2 Interacts with ATF4 to Promote Osteoblast Differentiation

Activating transcription factor 4 (ATF4) is a member of the basic leucine zipper (bZip) transcription factor family required for the terminal differentiation of osteoblasts. Despite its critical importance as one of the three main osteoblast differentiation transcription factors, regulators of osteoblast terminal maturation remain poorly defined. Here we report the identification of homologous pairing protein 2 (Hop2) as a dimerization partner of ATF4 in osteoblasts via the yeast two-hybrid system. Deletional mapping revealed that the Zip domain of Hop2 is necessary and sufficient to bind ATF4 and to enhance ATF4-dependent transcription. Ectopic Hop2 expression in preosteoblasts increased endogenous ATF4 protein content and accelerated osteoblast differentiation. Mice lacking Hop2 (Hop2^-/- ) have a normal stature but exhibit an osteopenic phenotype similar to the one observed in Atf4^-/- mice, albeit milder, which is associated with decreased Osteocalcin mRNA expression and reduced type I collagen synthesis. Compound heterozygous mice (Atf4^+/- :Hop2^+/- ) display identical skeletal defects to those found in Hop2^-/- mice. These results indicate that Hop2 plays a previous unknown role as a determinant of osteoblast maturation via its regulation of ATF4 transcriptional activity. Our work for the first time reveals a function of Hop2 beyond its role in guiding the alignment of homologous chromosomes. © 2019 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.

Evidence That Rat Chondrocytes Can Differentiate Into Perichondrial Cells

During early bone formation, mesenchymal cells condense and then differentiate into collagen type II‐expressing chondrocytes that make up the cartilaginous bone anlagen. This anlage then becomes enclosed by the perichondrium. The mechanisms by which the perichondrium forms are not known. The purpose of this study was to determine whether epiphyseal chondrocytes can differentiate into perichondrial cells. Novel perichondrium markers were identified by expression microarray of microdissected rat perichondrium and growth plate cartilage. A dissection method that allowed for removal of contaminating perichondrium was developed and the absence was confirmed by histological examination and by expression of perichondrium markers. Perichondrium formation surrounding chondrocyte pellets was studied using histology, real‐time PCR, and in situ hybridization for chondrocyte and perichondrium markers. Cultured chondrocyte pellets developed an exterior perichondrium‐like layer. This surrounding tissue did not express chondrocyte markers, collagen‐type II and type X, as assessed by in situ hybridization. Instead, perichondrium markers, periostin, Dickkopf 3 (Dkk3), roundabout 2, cadherin 2, L‐galectin 1 (Lgals1), and thrombospondin 2 (Thbs2) were upregulated following formation of the perichondrium‐like layer as assessed by real‐time PCR. Interestingly, markers specific for the cambium layer, Dkk3, Thbs2, and Lgals1, but not for the fibrous layer, collagen‐type XIV and decorin, were upregulated. The findings suggest that epiphyseal chondrocytes of postnatal animals retain the potential to differentiate into perichondrial cells, supporting the hypothesis that the perichondrium originates from collagen type II‐expressing chondrocytes at the periphery of the cartilaginous bone template. © 2018 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.

A Tumor Suppressor Gene Product, Platelet-Derived Growth Factor Receptor-Like Protein Controls Chondrocyte Proliferation and Differentiation

The platelet-derived growth factor receptor-like (PDGFRL) gene is regarded as a tumor suppressor gene. However, nothing is known about the molecular function of PDGFRL. In this study, we initially clarified its function in chondrocytes. Among all cell lines examined, the PDGFRL mRNA level was the highest in chondrocytic HCS-2/8 cells. Interestingly, the proliferation of chondrocytic HCS-2/8 cells was promoted by PDGFRL overexpression, whereas that of the breast cancer-derived MDA-MB-231 cells was inhibited. Of note, in PDGFRL-overexpressing HCS-2/8 cells, the expression of chondrocyte differentiation marker genes, SOX9, ACAN, COL2A1, COL10A1, and ALP, was decreased. Moreover, we confirmed the expression of PDGFRL mRNA in normal cartilage tissue and chondrocytes. Eventually, the expression of PDGFRL mRNA in condrocytes except in the case of hypertrophic chondrocytes was demonstrated in vivo and in vitro. These findings suggest that PDGFRL plays the different roles, depending upon cell types. Particularly, in chondrocytes, PDGFRL may play a new and important role which is distinct from the function previously reported. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 4033-4044, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Suppression of Basic Fibroblast Growth Factor Expression by Antisense Oligonucleotides Inhibits Neural Stem Cell Proliferation and Differentiation in Rat models With Focal Cerebral Infarction

This study is designed to investigate the role of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) antisense oligonucleotide (ASODN) on the proliferation and differentiation of neural stem cells (NSCs) in rat models with focal cerebral infarction (CI). Seventy-five Sprague-Dawlay (SD) rats were randomly divided into the control, sham, middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO), MCAO + nonsense oligonucleotide (NODN), and MCAO + ASODN groups. Proliferation and differentiation of NSCs were detected by bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) and immunofluorescence staining, respectively. ELISA was performed to detect the expressions of endogenous factors that include insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), glial cell line derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), transforming growth factor-α1 (TGF-α1), bFGF, and nerve growth factor (NGF). Results show significant neurological deficits and focal CI in the MCAO and MCAO + NODN groups. An obvious increase of NSC proliferation, reactive proliferation of astrocytes in CI areas, differentiation of newly proliferated NSCs into mature neuronal cells, and expressions of endogenous growth factors exhibited in the MCAO, MCAO + NODN and MCAO + ASODN groups. Compared to the MCAO and MACO + NODN groups, the MCAO + ASODN group showed a significant decrease NSC proliferation and differentiation in CI areas as well as decrease expressions of endogenous growth factors. These findings may offer insight to help us understand more as to how bFGF ASODN can effectively suppress the proliferation and differentiation of NSCs. These findings are expected to help contribute to research for new targets in the treatment of focal CI. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 3875-3882, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Histone H4 Methyltransferase Suv420h2 Maintains Fidelity of Osteoblast Differentiation

Osteogenic lineage commitment and progression is controlled by multiple signaling pathways (e.g., WNT, BMP, FGF) that converge on bone-related transcription factors. Access of osteogenic transcription factors to chromatin is controlled by epigenetic regulators that generate post-translational modifications of histones ("histone code"), as well as read, edit and/or erase these modifications. Our understanding of the biological role of epigenetic regulators in osteoblast differentiation remains limited. Therefore, we performed next-generation RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) and established which chromatin-related proteins are robustly expressed in mouse bone tissues (e.g., fracture callus, calvarial bone). These studies also revealed that cells with increased osteogenic potential have higher levels of the H4K20 methyl transferase Suv420h2 compared to other methyl transferases (e.g., Suv39h1, Suv39h2, Suv420h1, Ezh1, Ezh2). We find that all six epigenetic regulators are transiently expressed at different stages of osteoblast differentiation in culture, with maximal mRNAs levels of Suv39h1 and Suv39h2 (at day 3) preceding maximal expression of Suv420h1 and Suv420h2 (at day 7) and developmental stages that reflect, respectively, early and later collagen matrix deposition. Loss of function analysis of Suv420h2 by siRNA depletion shows loss of H4K20 methylation and decreased expression of bone biomarkers (e.g., alkaline phosphatase/Alpl) and osteogenic transcription factors (e.g., Sp7/Osterix). Furthermore, Suv420h2 is required for matrix mineralization during osteoblast differentiation. We conclude that Suv420h2 controls the H4K20 methylome of osteoblasts and is critical for normal progression of osteoblastogenesis. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 1262-1272, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Identification of Chloride Intracellular Channel Protein 3 as a Novel Gene Affecting Human Bone Formation

Osteoporosis is a common skeletal disorder characterized by low bone mass leading to increased bone fragility and fracture susceptibility. The bone building cells, osteoblasts, are derived from mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs); however, with increasing age osteogenic differentiation is diminished and more adipocytes are seen in the bone marrow, suggesting a shift in MSC lineage commitment. Identification of specific factors that stimulate osteoblast differentiation from human MSCs may deliver therapeutic targets to treat osteoporosis. The aim of this study was to identify novel genes involved in osteoblast differentiation of human bone marrow–derived MSCs (hMSCs). We identified the gene chloride intracellular channel protein 3 (CLIC3) to be strongly upregulated during MSC‐derived osteoblast differentiation. Lentiviral overexpression of CLIC3 in hMSCs caused a 60% increase of matrix mineralization. Conversely, knockdown of CLIC3 in hMSCs using two short‐hairpin RNAs (shRNAs) against CLIC3 resulted in a 69% to 76% reduction in CLIC3 mRNA expression, 53% to 37% less alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, and 78% to 88% less matrix mineralization compared to scrambled control. Next, we used an in vivo human bone formation model in which hMSCs lentivirally transduced with the CLIC3 overexpression construct were loaded onto a scaffold (hydroxyapatite‐tricalcium‐phosphate), implanted under the skin of NOD‐SCID mice, and analyzed for bone formation 8 weeks later. CLIC3 overexpression led to a 15‐fold increase in bone formation (0.33% versus 5.05% bone area relative to scaffold). Using a Clic3‐His‐tagged pull‐down assay and liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LS/MS)‐based proteomics analysis in lysates of osteogenically differentiated hMSCs, we showed that CLIC3 interacts with NIMA‐related kinase 9 (NEK9) and phosphatidylserine synthase 1 (PTDSS1) in vitro, and this finding was supported by immunofluorescent analysis. In addition, inhibition of NEK9 or PTDSS1 gene expression by shRNAs inhibited osteoblast differentiation and mineralization. In conclusion, we successfully identified CLIC3 to be a lineage‐specific gene regulating osteoblast differentiation and bone formation through its interaction with NEK9 and PTDSS1. © The Authors. JBMR Plus is published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of the American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.

Expression Profiles Analysis and Functional Characterization of MicroRNA-660 in Skeletal Muscle Differentiation

MicroRNA are a series of small non-coding RNAs that have emerged as critical regulators of skeletal muscle development. Here, we concentrated on the function of miR-660 during bovine skeletal myogenesis from our previous high-throughput sequencing results, then analyzed its expression profiles and characterized related functional roles. Overexpression of miR-660 significantly attenuated myogenic differentiation of C2C12 cells, whereas miR-660 inhibition enhanced C2C12 differentiation. Dual-Luciferase Reporter Assay went for demonstrating that miR-660 directly targeted the 3'-UTR of Rho guanine nucleotide exchange factor 12 (ARHGEF-12). Furthermore, we found an inverse relationship between the expression of miR-660 and ARHGEF12 in both gain- and loss-of-function studies: overexpression of miR-660 declined the mRNA and protein expressions of ARHGEF12 in C2C12 cells differentiation; however, knockdown of miR-660 had completely opposite results. Taken together, these results offered a new perspective for miR-660 in skeletal muscle differentiation. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 2387-2394, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Ectodermal-Neural Cortex 1 Isoforms Have Contrasting Effects on MC3T3-E1 Osteoblast Mineralization and Gene Expression

The importance of Wnt pathway signaling in development of bone has been well established. Here we investigated the role of a known Wnt target, ENC1 (ectodermal-neural cortex 1; NRP/B), in osteoblast differentiation. Enc1 expression was detected in mouse osteoblasts, chondrocytes, and osteocytes by in situ hybridization, and osteoblastic expression was verified in differentiating primary cultures and MC3T3-E1 pre-osteoblast cells, with 57 kDa and 67 kDa ENC1 protein isoforms detected throughout differentiation. Induced knockdown of both ENC1 isoforms reduced alkaline phosphatase staining and virtually abolished MC3T3-E1 mineralization. At culture confluence, Alpl (alkaline phosphatase liver/bone/kidney) expression was markedly reduced compared with control cells, and there was significant and coordinated alteration of other genes involved in cellular phosphate biochemistry. In contrast, with 67 kDa-selective knockdown mineralized nodule formation was enhanced and there was a two-fold increase in Alpl expression at confluence. There was enhanced expression of Wnt/β-catenin target genes with knockdown of both isoforms at this time-point and a five-fold increase in Frzb (Frizzled related protein) with 67 kDa-selective knockdown at mineralization, indicating possible ENC1 interactions with Wnt signaling in osteoblasts. These results are the first to demonstrate a role for ENC1 in the control of osteoblast differentiation. Additionally, the contrasting mineralization phenotypes and transcriptional patterns seen with coordinate knockdown of both ENC1 isoforms vs selective knockdown of 67 kDa ENC1 suggest opposing roles for the isoforms in regulation of osteoblastic differentiation, through effects on Alpl expression and phosphate cellular biochemistry. This study is the first to report differential roles for the ENC1 isoforms in any cell lineage. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 2141-2150, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Resveratrol Enhances Self-Renewal of Mouse Embryonic Stem Cells

Resveratrol (RSV) has been shown to affect the differentiation of several types of stem cells, while the detailed mechanism is elusive. Here, we aim to investigate the function of RSV in self-renewal of mouse embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and the related mechanisms. In contrast with its reported roles, we found unexpectedly that differentiated ESCs or iPSCs treated by RSV would not show further differentiation, but regained a naïve pluripotency state with higher expressions of core transcriptional factors and with the ability to differentiate into all three germ layers when transplanted in vivo. In accordance with these findings, RSV also enhanced cell cycle progression of ESCs via regulating cell cycle-related proteins. Finally, enhanced activation of JAK/STAT3 signaling pathway and suppressed activation of mTOR were found essential in enhancing the self-renewal of ESCs by RSV. Our finding discovered a novel function of RSV in enhancing the self-renewal of ESCs, and suggested that the timing of treatment and concentration of RSV determined the final effect of it. Our work may contribute to understanding of RSV in the self-renewal maintenance of pluripotent stem cells, and may also provide help to the generation and maintenance of iPSCs in vitro. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 1928-1935, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Placental-Specific Overexpression of sFlt-1 Alters Trophoblast Differentiation and Nutrient Transporter Expression in an IUGR Mouse Model

Since it is known that placental overexpression of the human anti-angiogenic molecule sFlt-1, the main candidate in the progression of preeclampsia, lead to intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) in mice by lentiviral transduction of mouse blastocysts, we hypothesize that sFlt-1 influence placental morphology and physiology resulting in fetal IUGR. We therefore examined the effect of sFlt-1 on placental morphology and physiology at embryonic day 18.5 with histologic and morphometric analyses, transcript analyses, immunoblotting, and methylation studies. Interestingly, placental overexpression of sFlt-1 leads to IUGR in the fetus and results in lower placental weights. Moreover, we observed altered trophoblast differentiation with reduced expression of IGF2, resulting in a smaller placenta, a smaller labyrinth, and the loss of glycogen cells in the junctional zone. Changes in IGF2 are accompanied by small changes in its DNA methylation, whereas overall DNA methylation is unaffected. In addition, the expression of placental nutrient transporters, such as the glucose diffusion channel Cx26, is decreased. In contrast, the expression of the fatty acid transporter CD36 and the cholesterol transporter ABCA1 is significantly increased. In conclusion, placental sFlt-1 overexpression resulted in a reduction in the differentiation of the spongiotrophoblast into glycogen cells. These findings of a reduced exchange area of the labyrinth and glycogen stores, as well as decreased expression of glucose transporter, could contribute to the intrauterine growth restriction phenotype. All of these factors change the intrauterine availability of nutrients. Thus, we speculate that the alterations triggered by increased anti-angiogenesis strongly affect fetal outcome and programming. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 1316-1329, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Identification of Domains for Efficient Notch Signaling Activity in Immobilized Notch Ligand Proteins

Notch is a critical signaling pathway that controls cell fate and tissue homeostasis, but the functional characterization of Notch ligand domains that activate Notch receptors remains incomplete. Here, we established a method for immobilizing Notch ligand proteins onto beads to measure time-dependent Notch activity after the addition of Notch ligand-coated beads. A comparison between activities by the Notch ligand found on the cell surface to that of the ligand immobilized on beads showed that immobilized Notch ligand protein produces comparable signal activity during the first 10 h. Follow-up truncation studies showed that the N-terminal epidermal growth factor (EGF) repeat three region of delta like canonical Notch ligand 4 (DLL4) or jagged 1 (JAG1) is the minimum region for activating Notch signaling, and the DLL4 EGF repeat three domain may have a role in activation through a mechanism other than by increasing binding affinity. In addition, we found that reconstruction of the DLL4 delta and OSM-11 (DOS) motif (N257P) resulted in an increase in both binding affinity and signaling activity, which suggests that the role of the DOS motif is conserved among Notch ligands. Furthermore, active DLL4 protein on beads promoted T cell differentiation or inhibited B cell differentiation in vitro, whereas JAG1 proteins on beads did not have any effect. Taken together, our findings provide unambiguous evidence for the role of different Notch ligands and their domains in Notch signal activation, and may be potential tools for controlling Notch signaling activation. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 785-796, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Hypoxia Enhances Differentiation of Hair Follicle-Associated-Pluripotent (HAP) Stem Cells to Cardiac-Muscle Cells

We have previously demonstrated that the neural stem-cell marker nestin is expressed in hair-follicle stem cells located in the bulge area which are termed hair-follicle-associated pluripotent (HAP) stem cells. HAP stem cells from mouse and human could form spheres in culture, termed hair spheres, which are keratin 15-negative and nestin-positive and could differentiate to neurons, glia, keratinocytes, smooth muscle cells, and melanocytes in vitro. Subsequently, we demonstrated that nestin-expressing stem cells could effect nerve and spinal cord regeneration in mouse models. Recently, we demonstrated that HAP stem cells differentiated to beating cardiac muscle cells. We recently observed that isoproterenol directs HAP stem cells to differentiate to cardiac-muscle cells in large numbers in culture compared to HAP stem cells not supplemented with isoproterenol. The addition of activin A, bone morphogenetic protein 4, and basic fibroblast growth factor, along with isoproternal, induced the cardiac muscle cells to form tissue sheets of beating heart muscle cells. In the present study, we report that, under hypoxic conditions, HAP stem cells differentiated to troponin-positive cardiac-muscle cells at a higher rate that under normoxic conditions. Hypoxia did not influence the differentiation to other cell types. For future use of HAP stem cells for cardiac muscle regeneration, hypoxia should enhance the rate of differentiation thereby providing patients more opportunities to use their own HAP stem cells which are easily accessible, for this purpose. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 554-558, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Canonical FGFs Prevent Osteogenic Lineage Commitment and Differentiation of Human Bone Marrow Stromal Cells Via ERK1/2 Signaling

Controlling the adipo-osteogenic lineage decision of trabecular human bone marrow stromal cells (hBMSCs) in favor of osteogenesis represents a promising approach for osteoporosis therapy and prevention. Previously, Fibroblast Growth Factor 1 (FGF1) and its subfamily member FGF2 were scored as leading candidates to exercise control over skeletal precursor commitment and lineage decision albeit literature results are highly inconsistent. We show here that FGF1 and 2 strongly prevent the osteogenic commitment and differentiation of hBMSCs. Mineralization of extracellular matrix (ECM) and mRNA expression of osteogenic marker genes Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP), Collagen 1A1 (COL1A1), and Integrin-Binding Sialoprotein (IBSP) were significantly reduced. Furthermore, master regulators of osteogenic commitment like Runt-Related Transcription Factor 2 (RUNX2) and Bone Morphogenetic Protein 4 (BMP4) were downregulated. When administered under adipogenic culture conditions, canonical FGFs did not support osteogenic marker expression. Moreover despite the presence of osteogenic differentiation factors, FGFs even disabled the pro-osteogenic lineage decision of pre-differentiated adipocytic cells. In contrast to FGF Receptor 2 (FGFR2), FGFR1 was stably expressed throughout osteogenic and adipogenic differentiation and FGF addition. Moreover, FGFR1 and Extracellular Signal-Regulated Kinases 1 and 2 (ERK1/2) were found to be responsible for underlying signal transduction using respective inhibitors. Taken together, we present new findings indicating that canonical FGFR-ERK1/2 signaling entrapped hBMSCs in a pre-committed state and arrested further maturation of committed precursors. Our results might aid in unraveling and controlling check points relevant for ageing-associated aberrant adipogenesis with consequences for the treatment of degenerative diseases such as osteoporosis and for skeletal tissue engineering strategies. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 263-275, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Histone deacetylase inhibition impairs normal intestinal cell proliferation and promotes specific gene expression

Mechanisms that maintain proliferation and delay cell differentiation in the intestinal crypt are not yet fully understood. We have previously shown the implication of histone methylation in the regulation of enterocytic differentiation. In this study, we investigated the role of histone deacetylation as an important epigenetic mechanism that controls proliferation and differentiation of intestinal cells using the histone deacetylase inhibitor suberanilohydroxamic acid (SAHA) on the proliferation and differentiation of human and mouse intestinal cells. Treatment of newly confluent Caco‐2/15 cells with SAHA resulted in growth arrest, increased histone acetylation and up‐regulation of the expression of intestine‐specific genes such as those encoding sucrase‐isomaltase, villin and the ion exchanger SLC26A3. Although SAHA has been recently used in clinical trials for cancer treatment, its effect on normal intestinal cells has not been documented. Analyses of small and large intestines of mice treated with SAHA revealed a repression of crypt cell proliferation and a higher expression of sucrase‐isomaltase in both segments compared to control mice. Expression of SLC26A3 was also significantly up‐regulated in the colons of mice after SAHA administration. Finally, SAHA was also found to strongly inhibit normal human intestinal crypt cell proliferation in vitro. These results demonstrate the important implication of epigenetic mechanisms such as histone acetylation/deacetylation in the regulation of normal intestinal cell fate and proliferation. J. Cell. Biochem. 116: 2695–2708, 2015. © 2015 The Authors. Journal of Cellular Biochemistry published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

The Neutrophil Nucleus and Its Role in Neutrophilic Function

The cell nucleus plays a key role in differentiation processes in eukaryotic cells. It is not the nucleus in particular, but the organization of the genes and their remodeling that provides the data for the adjustments to be made according to the medium. The neutrophil nucleus has a different morphology. It is a multi-lobed nucleus where some researchers argue no longer function. However, studies indicate that it is very probable the occurrence of chromatin remodeling during activation steps. It may be that the human neutrophil nucleus also contributes to the mobility of neutrophils through thin tissue spaces. Questions like these will be discussed in this small review. The topics include morphology of human neutrophil nucleus, maturation process and modifications of the neutrophil nucleus, neutrophil activation and chromatin modifications, causes and consequences of multi-lobulated segmented morphology, and importance of the nucleus in the formation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs).

DNA Repair in Despair-Vitamin D Is Not Fair

The role of vitamin D as a treatment option for neoplastic diseases, once considered to have a bright future, remains controversial. The preclinical studies discussed herein show compelling evidence that Vitamin D Derivatives (VDDs) can convert some cancer and leukemia cells to a benign phenotype, by differentiation/maturation, cell cycle arrest, or induction of apoptosis. Furthermore, there is considerable, though still evolving, knowledge of the molecular mechanisms underlying these changes. However, the attempts to clearly document that the treatment outcomes of human neoplastic diseases can be positively influenced by VDDs have been, so far, disappointing. The clinical trials to date of VDDs, alone or combined with other agents, have not shown consistent results. It is our contention, shared by others, that there were limitations in the design or execution of these trials which have not yet been fully addressed. Based on the connection between upregulation of JNK by VDDs and DNA repair, we propose a new avenue of attack on cancer cells by increasing the toxicity of the current, only partially effective, cancer chemotherapeutic drugs by combining them with VDDs. This can impair DNA repair and thus kill the malignant cells, warranting a comprehensive study of this novel concept. J. Cell. Biochem. 117: 1733-1744, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Role of Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling in Epithelial Differentiation of Lung Resident Mesenchymal Stem Cells

Accumulating evidence has demonstrated that stem cells have the ability to repair the lung tissue injuries following either injection of cultured cells or bone marrow transplantation. As a result, increasing attention has focused on the lung resident mesenchymal stem cells (LR-MSCs) for repairing damaged lung tissues. Meanwhile, some studies have revealed that Wnt/β-catenin signaling plays an important role in the epithelial differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). In the current study, our aim was to explore the roles of Wnt/β-catenin signaling on cell proliferation and epithelial differentiation of LR-MSCs. We have successfully isolated the stem cell antigen (Sca)-1(+) CD45(-) CD31(-) cells which were proposed to be LR-MSCs by magnetic-activated cell sorting (MACS). Furthermore, we demonstrated the expression of epithelial markers on LR-MSCs following indirect co-culture of these cells with alveolar epithelial type II (ATII) cells, confirming the epithelial phenotype of LR-MSCs following co-culture. In order to clarify the regulatory mechanisms of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in epithelial differentiation of LR-MSCs, we measured the protein levels of several important members involved in Wnt/β-catenin signaling in the presence or absence of some canonical activators and inhibitors of the β-catenin pathways. In conclusion, our study demonstrated that Wnt/β-catenin signaling may be an essential mechanism underlying the regulation of epithelial differentiation of LR-MSCs.

A systematic review and meta-analysis of immunohistochemical biomarkers that differentiate chromophobe renal cell carcinoma from renal oncocytoma

BACKGROUND

Numerous immunohistochemical (IHC) biomarkers have been employed to aid in the difficult differentiation between chromophobe renal cell carcinoma (chRCC) and renal oncocytoma (RO). A systematic review and meta-analysis of the published literature was carried out to summarise and analyse the evidence for discriminatory IHC biomarkers to differentiate the two entities.

METHODS

PubMed database was used to identify relevant literature. Primary end point was comparison of positive immunostaining of the biomarkers in chRCC and RO, with extracted data used to calculate OR and 95% CI and statistical I(2) test of heterogeneity for multiple studies.

RESULTS

One hundred and nine manuscripts were available for review. Data extracted were subjected to quantitative meta-analysis. Ten most effective biomarkers (OR of chRCC/RO and CI) are: amylase α1A (n=129, OR=0.001, 95% CI 0.0001 to 0.019); Wnt-5a (n=38, OR=0.0076, 95% CI 0.0004 to 0.015); FXYD2 (n=57, OR=130, 95% CI 14.2 to 1192.3); ankyrin-repeated protein with a proline-rich region (ARPP) (n=25, OR=0.0054, 95% CI 0.0002 to 0.12); cluster of differentiation 63 (CD63) (n=62, diffuse (chRCC) vs apical/polar (RO) stain pattern); transforming growth factor β 1 (TGFβ1) (n=34, membranous (chRCC) vs cytoplasmic (RO)); cytokeratin 7 (CK7) (11 studies, n=448, pooled OR=44.22, 95% CI 22.52 to 86.64, I(2)=15%); S100A1 (4 studies, n=124, pooled OR=0.01, 95% CI 0 to 0.03, I(2)=0%); caveolin-1 (2 studies, n=102, pooled OR=32.95, 95% CI 3.67 to 296.1, I(2)=70%) and claudin-7 (3 studies, n=89, pooled OR=24.7, 95% CI 6.28 to 97.1, I(2)=0%).

CONCLUSIONS

We recommend a panel of IHC biomarkers of amylase α1A, Wnt-5a, FXYD2, ARPP, CD63, TGFβ1, CK7, S100A1, caveolin-1 and claudin-7 to aid in the differentiation of chRCC and RO.

The acinar regulator Gata6 suppresses KrasG12V-driven pancreatic tumorigenesis in mice

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Gata6 is required to complete and maintain acinar differentiation in the mouse pancreas. Pancreas-specific Gata6 ablation during development causes extensive and persistent acinar-ductal metaplasia, which is considered an initial step of mutant KRas-driven carcinogenesis. Therefore, the Gata6-null pancreas might represent a tumour-prone environment. We investigated whether Gata6 plays a role during pancreatic tumorigenesis.

DESIGN

We analysed genetically engineered mouse models and human pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) cell lines, using a combination of histopathological studies, genome-wide expression and chromatin immunoprecipitation experiments to understand the role of Gata6 in the initiation and progression of KRas(G12V)-driven tumours

RESULTS

We show that Gata6 maintains the acinar differentiation programme, both directly and indirectly, and it concomitantly suppresses ectopic programmes in the pancreas. Gata6 ablation renders acinar cells more sensitive to KRas(G12V), thereby accelerating tumour development. Gata6 expression is spontaneously lost in a mouse model of KRas(G12V)-driven PDAC, in association with altered cell differentiation. Using a combination of ChIP-Seq and RNA-Seq, we show that Gata6 exerts its tumour-suppressive effect through the promotion of cell differentiation, the suppression of inflammatory pathways, and the direct repression of cancer-related pathways. Among them is the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) pathway, the activity of which is upregulated in the normal and preneoplastic Gata6-null pancreas. Accordingly, GATA6-silencing in human PDAC cells leads to an upregulation of EGFR.

CONCLUSIONS

We propose that, in the pancreas, Gata6 acts as a tumour suppressor by enforcing acinar cell differentiation, by directly and indirectly repressing ectopic differentiation programmes, and by regulating crucial cancer-related gene expression pathways.

Stable 5-Hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC) Acquisition Marks Gene Activation During Chondrogenic Differentiation

Regulation of gene expression changes during chondrogenic differentiation by DNA methylation and demethylation is little understood. Methylated cytosines (5mC) are oxidized by the ten-eleven-translocation (TET) proteins to 5-hydroxymethylcytosines (5hmC), 5-formylcytosines (5fC), and 5-carboxylcytosines (5caC), eventually leading to a replacement by unmethylated cytosines (C), ie, DNA demethylation. Additionally, 5hmC is stable and acts as an epigenetic mark by itself. Here, we report that global changes in 5hmC mark chondrogenic differentiation in vivo and in vitro. Tibia anlagen and growth plate analyses during limb development at mouse embryonic days E 11.5, 13.5, and 17.5 showed dynamic changes in 5hmC levels in the differentiating chondrocytes. A similar increase in 5hmC levels was observed in the ATDC5 chondroprogenitor cell line accompanied by increased expression of the TET proteins during in vitro differentiation. Loss of TET1 in ATDC5 decreased 5hmC levels and impaired differentiation, demonstrating a functional role for TET1-mediated 5hmC dynamics in chondrogenic differentiation. Global analyses of the 5hmC-enriched sequences during early and late chondrogenic differentiation identified 5hmC distribution to be enriched in the regulatory regions of genes preceding the transcription start site (TSS), as well as in the gene bodies. Stable gains in 5hmC were observed in specific subsets of genes, including genes associated with cartilage development and in chondrogenic lineage-specific genes. 5hmC gains in regulatory promoter and enhancer regions as well as in gene bodies were strongly associated with activated but not repressed genes, indicating a potential regulatory role for DNA hydroxymethylation in chondrogenic gene expression.

Placenta Mesenchymal Stem Cell Derived Exosomes Confer Plasticity on Fibroblasts

Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-conditioned medium (MSC-CM) has been reported to enhance wound healing. Exosomes contain nucleic acids, proteins, and lipids, and function as an intercellular communication vehicle for mediating some paracrine effects. However, the function of MSC-derived exosomes (MSC-exo) remains elusive. In this study, we isolated human placenta MSC (PlaMSC)-derived exosomes (PlaMSC-exo) and examined their function in vitro. PlaMSCs were isolated from human term placenta using enzymatic digestion. PlaMSC-exo were prepared from the conditioned medium of PlaMSC (PlaMSC-CM) by ultracentrifugation. The expression of stemness-related genes, such as OCT4 and NANOG, in normal adult human dermal fibroblasts (NHDF) after incubation with PlaMSC-exo was measured by real-time reverse transcriptase PCR analysis (real-time PCR). The effect of PlaMSC-exo on OCT4 transcription activity was assessed using Oct4-EGFP reporter mice-derived dermal fibroblasts. The stimulating effects of PlaMSC-exo on osteoblastic and adipocyte-differentiation of NHDF were evaluated by alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and Alizarin red S- and oil red O-staining, respectively. The expression of osteoblast- and adipocyte-related genes was also assessed by real-time PCR. The treatment of NHDF with PlaMSC-exo significantly upregulated OCT4 and NANOG mRNA expression. PlaMSC-exo also enhanced OCT4 transcription. The NHDF treated with PlaMSC-exo exhibited osteoblastic and adipocyte-differentiation in osteogenic and adipogenic induction media. PlaMSC-exo increase the expression of OCT4 and NANOG mRNA in fibroblasts. As a result, PlaMSC-exo influence the differentiation competence of fibroblasts to both osteoblastic and adipocyte-differentiation. It shows a new feature of MSCs and the possibility of clinical application of MSC-exo. J. Cell. Biochem. 117: 1658-1670, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Estrogen enhances activity of Wnt signaling during osteogenesis by inducing Fhl1 expression

Estrogen is a crucial hormone for osteoclast inhibition and for preventing osteoporosis. However, the hormone's role in osteoblast growth and differentiation remains unclear. The complexity of estrogen's role in guiding osteoblast behavior arises partly from crosstalk with other signaling pathways, including Wnt signaling. In this study, we show that the Wnt agonist, LiCl, induced Fhl1 gene expression, which substantially enhanced osteoblast differentiation. Staining with alizarin red revealed that MC3T3-E1 mineralization was enhanced by overexpression of Fhl1. In addition, Fhl1 promoted the expression of the osteogenic markers, Runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2), osteocalcin (OCN), and osteopontin (OPN), whereas MC3T3-E1 cells with gene knockdown of Fhl1 exhibited limited mineralization and expression of Runx2, OCN, and OPN. We further demonstrate evidences from quantitative reverse transcription real-time polymerase chain reaction and reporter assay that Fhl1 expression was synergistically stimulated by estrogen (E2) and LiCl, but reduced by the estrogen-receptor inhibitor fulvestrant (ICI 182,780). However, estrogen could not enhance osteogenesis while Fhl1 expression was knocked down. Because estrogen and Wnt signaling frequently interact in developmental processes, we propose that Fhl1 can be an acting molecule mediating both signaling pathways during osteogenesis.

Inhibitory effect of hsa-miR-590-5p on cardiosphere-derived stem cells differentiation through downregulation of TGFB signaling

The cardiac cells generation via stem cells differentiation is a promising approach to restore the myocardial infarction. Promoted by our primary bioinformatics analysis as well as some previously published data on potential role of hsa-miR-590-3p in cardiogenesis, we have tried to decipher the role of miR-590-5p during the course of differentiation of cardiosphere-derived cells (CDCs). The differentiation induction of CDCs by TGFB1 was confirmed by real-time PCR, ICC, and flow cytometry. The expression pattern of hsa-miR-590-5p and some related genes were examined during the differentiation process. In order to study the role of miR-590-5p in cardiac differentiation, the effect of miR-590 overexpression in CDCs was studied. Evaluating the expression patterns of miR-590 and its potential targets (TGFBRs) during the course of differentiation, demonstrated a significant downregulation of miR-590 and an upregulation of TGFBR2, following the treatment of CDCs with TGFB1. Therefore, we proposed a model in which TGFB1 exerts its differentiation induction via downregulation of miR-590, and hence the higher transcriptional expression level of TGFBR2. In accordance with our proposed model, transfection of CDCs by a pLenti-III-hsa-mir-590-GFP expression vector before or after the first TGFB1 treatment caused a significant alteration in the expression levels of TGFBRs. Moreover, our data revealed that overexpression of miR-590 before TGFB1 induction was able to attenuate the CDCs differentiation probably via the reduction of TGFBR2 expression level. Altogether, our data suggest an inhibitory role of miR-590 during the cardiac differentiation of CDCs which its suppression might elevate the rate of differentiation.

Autocrine/paracrine function of globular adiponectin: inhibition of lipid metabolism and inflammatory response in 3T3-L1 adipocytes

Adiponectin is an adipose-derived hormone, with beneficial effects on insulin sensitivity and inflammation. The aim of this study was to clarify the autocrine/paracrine effects of globular adiponectin (gAd) administrated during differentiation on the function of the mature adipocytes. Experiments were performed on 3T3-L1 preadipocytes treated with gAd (10 nM), starting at an early stage of differentiation. gAd treatment during differentiation was without effect on mRNA expression of adiponectin and AdipoR2, but increased AdipoR1 expression. PPARgamma, perillipin and FABP4 mRNA expressions were lower in gAd-treated adipocytes, accompanied by a reduction in lipid accumulation. While mRNA expression of HSL was not affected by gAd compared to untreated adipocytes, both ATGL and FAS were reduced, indicating that gAd regulates both lipolysis and lipogenesis. PPARα, ACOX2 and UCPs mRNA expressions were not affected by gAd, indicating that the reduction in lipid content is not attributed to an increase in fatty-acid oxidation. In accord with the lower PPARγ expression, there was reduced Glut4 mRNA expression; however, insulin-induced PKB phosphorylation was enhanced by gAd, and glucose uptake was not altered. To investigate the effect of gAd on LPS-induced inflammatory response, cells were treated with gAd either during differentiation or 24 h before induction of inflammation in differentiated adipocytes. LPS-induced inflammatory response, as indicated by increase in IL6 and MCP-1 mRNA expression. gAd given through differentiation was much more effective in abrogating LPS-dependent cytokines production than gAd given to the mature adipocyte. In conclusion, elevated gAd at differentiation of 3T3-L1 cells leads to reduced lipid content, reduced lipid metabolism and high resistance to inflammation.

Insulin-like growth factor binding protein 4 enhances cardiomyocytes induction in murine-induced pluripotent stem cells

Insulin-like growth factor binding protein 4 (IGFBP4) has been reported to play critical role in cardiomyocytes differentiation of embryonic stem cells (ESCs). But whether it promotes cardiomyocytes induction of iPSCs is unclear. In the present study, we aim to explore the role of IGFBP4 in the cardiogenesis of mouse iPSCs. We observed that IGFBP4 treatment at late stage during differentiation process of mouse iPSCs greatly enhanced the beating frequency of embryoid bodies (EBs). The expressions of Nkx2.5 (cardiac-specific transcription factor), α-MHC, α-actinin, and Troponin I (cardiac-specific protein) were significantly enhanced by IGFBP4 treatment. Immunostaining analysis showed that α-MHC, TNNT2 and connexin 43, typical cardiac markers, were obviously expressed in isolated cardiomyocytes from iPSCs with or without IGFBP4 treatment. Further study revealed that IGFBP4 had little effect on the apoptosis of EBs, but it significantly promoted the proliferation of cardiomyocytes from iPSCs characterized by higher ratio EdU positive cells in differentiated cardiomyocytes. We next observed that IGFBP4 inhibited β-catenin expression in cytosol of EBs at late stage during differentiation of iPSCs. Knockdown of β-catenin using a siRNA technique promoted the proliferation of differentiated cardiomyocytes and enhanced cardiomyocytes induction of iPSCs, suggesting that the effect of IGFBP4 on cardiomyocytes differentiation of iPSCs has relationship with β-catenin signaling pathway. In conclusion, IGFBP4 promotes cardiogenesis of iPSCs by enhancing the proliferation of differentiated cardiomyocytes through inhibiting β-catenin signaling.

Grading lymph node metastasis: a feasible approach for prognostication of patients with stage III colorectal cancer

This study aimed to assess the clinicopathological significance of tumour differentiation of metastatic lymph node tissue in patients with American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC)/Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) stage III colorectal cancer. In a cohort of 145 patients, lymph node grades were G1 in 77 (53.1%), G2 in 41 (28.3%) and G3 in 27 (18.6%) cases, respectively. Despite differences in 77 (53.1%) cases, primary tumour and lymph node grade correlated significantly (Somer's D=0.639; p<0.001). Lymph node grade was significantly associated with N classification (p=0.009), tumour size (p=0.024) and lymphovascular invasion (p=0.004). Patients with lymph node grade G1 had better progression-free survival (p=0.031) and cancer-specific survival (p=0.008). Multivariable analysis identified lymph node grade as independent predictor of cancer-specific survival in this cohort. In conclusion, lymph node grade emerged as a promising novel prognostic variable for patients with AJCC/UICC stage III disease. Additional studies are warranted to validate this new finding.

Development of an enhanced human gastrointestinal epithelial culture system to facilitate patient-based assays

OBJECTIVE

The technology for the growth of human intestinal epithelial cells is rapidly progressing. An exciting possibility is that this system could serve as a platform for individualised medicine and research. However, to achieve this goal, human epithelial culture must be enhanced so that biopsies from individuals can be used to reproducibly generate cell lines in a short time frame so that multiple, functional assays can be performed (ie, barrier function and host-microbial interactions).

DESIGN

We created a large panel of human gastrointestinal epithelial cell lines (n=65) from patient biopsies taken during routine upper and lower endoscopy procedures. Proliferative stem/progenitor cells were rapidly expanded using a high concentration of conditioned media containing the factors critical for growth (Wnt3a, R-spondin and Noggin). A combination of lower conditioned media concentration and Notch inhibition was used to differentiate these cells for additional assays.

RESULTS

We obtained epithelial lines from all accessible tissue sites within 2 weeks of culture. The intestinal cell lines were enriched for stem cell markers and rapidly grew as spheroids that required passage at 1:3-1:4 every 3 days. Under differentiation conditions, intestinal epithelial spheroids showed region-specific development of mature epithelial lineages. These cells formed functional, polarised monolayers covered by a secreted mucus layer when grown on Transwell membranes. Using two-dimensional culture, these cells also demonstrated novel adherence phenotypes with various strains of pathogenic Escherichia coli.

CONCLUSIONS

This culture system will facilitate the study of interindividual, functional studies of human intestinal epithelial cells, including host-microbial interactions.

Epiphyseal chondrocyte secondary ossification centers require thyroid hormone activation of Indian hedgehog and osterix signaling

Thyroid hormones (THs) are known to regulate endochondral ossification during skeletal development via acting directly in chondrocytes and osteoblasts. In this study, we focused on TH effects on the secondary ossification center (SOC) because the time of appearance of SOCs in several species coincides with the time when peak levels of TH are attained. Accordingly, micro-computed tomography (µCT) evaluation of femurs and tibias at day 21 in TH-deficient and control mice revealed that endochondral ossification of SOCs is severely compromised owing to TH deficiency and that TH treatment for 10 days completely rescued this phenotype. Staining of cartilage and bone in the epiphysis revealed that whereas all of the cartilage is converted into bone in the prepubertal control mice, this conversion failed to occur in the TH-deficient mice. Immunohistochemistry studies revealed that TH treatment of thyroid stimulating hormone receptor mutant (Tshr(-/-) ) mice induced expression of Indian hedgehog (Ihh) and Osx in type 2 collagen (Col2)-expressing chondrocytes in the SOC at day 7, which subsequently differentiate into type 10 collagen (Col10)/osteocalcin-expressing chondro/osteoblasts at day 10. Consistent with these data, treatment of tibia cultures from 3-day-old mice with 10 ng/mL TH increased expression of Osx, Col10, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and osteocalcin in the epiphysis by sixfold to 60-fold. Furthermore, knockdown of the TH-induced increase in Osx expression using lentiviral small hairpin RNA (shRNA) significantly blocked TH-induced ALP and osteocalcin expression in chondrocytes. Treatment of chondrogenic cells with an Ihh inhibitor abolished chondro/osteoblast differentiation and SOC formation. Our findings indicate that TH regulates the SOC initiation and progression via differentiating chondrocytes into bone matrix-producing osteoblasts by stimulating Ihh and Osx expression in chondrocytes.

FBP1 and p27kip1 expression after sciatic nerve injury: implications for Schwann cells proliferation and differentiation

Far Upstream Element (FUSE) Binding Protein 1 (FBP1), first identified as a single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) binding protein that binds to the FUSE, could modulate c-myc mRNA levels and also has been shown to regulate tumor cell proliferation and replication of virus. Typically, FBP1 could active the translation of p27kip1 (p27) and participate in tumor growth. However, the expression and roles of FBP1 in peripheral system lesions and repair are still unknown. In our study, we found that FBP1 protein levels was relatively higher in the normal sciatic nerves, significantly decreased and reached a minimal level at Day 3, and then returned to the normal level at 4 weeks. Spatially, we observed that FBP1 had a major colocation in Schwann cells and FBP1 was connected with Ki-67 and Oct-6. In vitro, we detected the decreased level of FBP1 and p27 in the TNF-α-induced Schwann cells proliferation model, while increased expression in cAMP-induced Schwann cells differentiation system. Specially, FBP1-specific siRNA-transfected SCs did not show fine and longer morphological change after cAMP treatment and had a decreased motility compared with normal. At 3 days after cAMP treatment and SC/neuron co-cultures, p27 was transported to cytoplasm to form CDK4/6-p27 to participate in SCs differentiation. In conclusion, we speculated that FBP1 and p27 were involved in SCs proliferation and the following differentiation in the sciatic nerve after crush by transporting p27 from nucleus to cytoplasm.

miR-34c enhances mouse spermatogonial stem cells differentiation by targeting Nanos2

miRNAs are expressed in many mammalian cells, acting specific roles in regulating gene expression or mediating special mRNAs cleavage by targeting their 3'-untranslated region (3'UTR). Some miRNAs are essential and important for animal development. However, it is still unclear what the relationship is between miR-34c and mammalian spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs). We found that a conserved microRNA-34c through its target-Nanos2, regulating SSCs' differentiation in mouse. Immunohistochemistry analysis of Nanos2 and miR-34c FISH results revealed the opposite expression trends between them. Seven bioinformatics websites and programs predicted that miR-34c has interaction sites in Nanos2's 3'UTR. Dual-luciferase reporter vector and mutated dual-luciferase reporter vector analysis validated that they are interacted. After transfection miR-34c mimics into mouse SSCs, or miR-34c lentiviral vector in vitro co-cultivation with seminiferous tubules, and Western blot analysis demonstrated that miR-34c over-expression could suppress Nanos2 expression in post-transcription level. Our experiments identified that miR-34c may promote meiosis process by interacting with Nanos2 leading up-regulation of Stra8 in mouse spermatogonial stem cells.

Comparison of nestin-expressing multipotent stem cells in the tongue fungiform papilla and vibrissa hair follicle

We have previously reported that hair follicles contain multipotent stem cells, which express nestin and participate in follicle growth at anagen as well as in the extension of the follicle sensory nerve. The nestin-driven green fluorescent protein (ND-GFP) transgenic mouse labels all nestin-expressing cells with GFP. The hair follicle nestin-GFP cells can differentiate into neurons, Schwann cells, and other cell types. In this study, we describe nestin-expressing multipotent stem cells in the fungiform papilla in the tongue. The nestin-expressing multipotent stem cells in the fungiform papilla are located around a peripheral sensory nerve immediately below the taste bud and co-express the neural crest cell marker p75(NTR) . The fungiform papilla cells formed spheres in suspension culture in DMEM-F12 medium supplemented with basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF). The spheres consisted of nestin-expressing cells that co-expressed the neural crest marker p75(NTR) and which developed expression of the stem cell marker CD34. P75(NTR), CD34 and nestin co-expression suggested that nestin-expressing cells comprising the fungiform papilla spheres were in a relatively undifferentiated state. The nestin-expressing cells of these spheres acquired the following markers: β III tubulin typical of nerve cells; GFAP typical of glial cells; K15 typical of keratinocytes; and smooth-muscle antigen (SMA), after transfer to RPMI 1640 medium with 10% fetal bovine serum (FBS), suggesting they differentiated into multiple cell types. The results of the current study indicate nestin-expressing fungiform papilla cells and the nestin-expressing hair follicle stem cells have common features of cell morphology and ability to differentiate into multiple cell types, suggesting their remarkable similarity.

Deficiency of Sef is associated with increased postnatal cortical bone mass by regulating Runx2 activity

Sef (similar expression to fgf genes) is a feedback inhibitor of fibroblast growth factor (FGF) signaling and functions in part by binding to FGF receptors and inhibiting their activation. Genetic studies in mice and humans indicate an important role for fibroblast growth factor signaling in bone growth and homeostasis. We, therefore, investigated whether Sef had a function role in skeletal acquisition and remodeling. Sef expression is increased during osteoblast differentiation in vitro, and LacZ staining of Sef+/- mice showed high expression of Sef in the periosteum and chondro-osseous junction of neonatal and adult mice. Mice with a global deletion of Sef showed increased cortical bone thickness, bone volume, and increased periosteal perimeter by micro-computed tomography (micro-CT). Histomorphometric analysis of cortical bone revealed a significant increase in osteoblast number. Interestingly, Sef-/- mice showed very little difference in trabecular bone by micro-CT and histomorphometry compared with wild-type mice. Bone marrow cells from Sef-/- mice grown in osteogenic medium showed increased proliferation and increased osteoblast differentiation compared with wild-type bone marrow cells. Bone marrow cells from Sef-/- mice showed enhanced FGF2-induced activation of the ERK pathway, whereas bone marrow cells from Sef transgenic mice showed decreased FGF2-induced signaling. FGF2-induced acetylation and stability of Runx2 was enhanced in Sef-/- bone marrow cells, whereas overexpression of Sef inhibited Runx2-responsive luciferase reporter activity. Bone marrow from Sef-/- mice showed enhanced hematopoietic lineage-dependent and osteoblast-dependent osteoclastogenesis and increased bone resorptive activity relative to wild-type controls in in vitro assays, whereas overexpression of Sef inhibited osteoclast differentiation. Taken together, these studies indicate that Sef has specific roles in osteoblast and osteoclast lineages and that its absence results in increased osteoblast and osteoclast activity with a net increase in cortical bone mass.

Siglec-15 regulates osteoclast differentiation by modulating RANKL-induced phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/Akt and Erk pathways in association with signaling Adaptor DAP12

Siglecs are a family of sialic acid-binding immunoglobulin-like lectins that regulate the functions of cells in the innate and adaptive immune systems through glycan recognition. Here we show that Siglec-15 regulates osteoclast development and bone resorption by modulating receptor activator of nuclear factor κB ligand (RANKL) signaling in association with DNAX-activating protein 12 kDa (DAP12), an adaptor protein bearing an immunoreceptor tyrosine-based activation motif (ITAM). Among the known Siglecs expressed in myeloid lineage cells, only Siglec-15 was upregulated by RANKL in mouse primary bone marrow macrophages. Siglec-15-deficient mice exhibit mild osteopetrosis resulting from impaired osteoclast development. Consistently, cells lacking Siglec-15 exhibit defective osteoclast development and resorptive activity in vitro. RANKL-induced activation of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt and Erk pathways were impaired in Siglec-15-deficient cells. Retroviral transduction of Siglec-15-null osteoclast precursors with wild-type Siglec-15 or mutant Siglec-15 revealed that the association of Siglec-15 with DAP12 is involved in the downstream signal transduction of RANK. Furthermore, we found that the ability of osteoclast formation is preserved in the region adjacent to the growth plate in Siglec-15-deficient mice, indicating that there is a compensatory mechanism for Siglec-15-mediated osteoclastogenesis in the primary spongiosa. To clarify the mechanism of this compensation, we examined whether osteoclast-associated receptor (OSCAR)/Fc receptor common γ (FcRγ) signaling, an alternative ITAM-mediated signaling pathway to DAP12, rescues impaired osteoclastogenesis in Siglec-15-deficient cells. The ligands in type II collagen activate OSCAR and rescue impaired osteoclastogenesis in Siglec-15-deficient cells when cultured on bone slices, indicating that Siglec-15-mediated signaling can be compensated for by signaling activated by type II collagen and other bone matrix components in the primary spongiosa. Our findings indicate that Siglec-15 plays an important role in physiologic bone remodeling by modulating RANKL signaling, especially in the secondary spongiosa.

SWI/SNF in cardiac progenitor cell differentiation

Cardiogenesis requires proper specification, proliferation, and differentiation of cardiac progenitor cells (CPCs). The differentiation of CPCs to specific cardiac cell types is likely guided by a comprehensive network comprised of cardiac transcription factors and epigenetic complexes. In this review, we describe how the ATP-dependent chromatin remodeling SWI/SNF complexes work synergistically with transcription and epigenetic factors to direct specific cardiac gene expression during CPC differentiation. Furthermore, we discuss how SWI/SNF may prime chromatin for cardiac gene expression at a genome-wide level. A detailed understanding of SWI/SNF-mediated CPC differentiation will provide important insight into the etiology of cardica defects and help design novel therapies for heart disease.

Suppression of autophagy by FIP200 deletion leads to osteopenia in mice through the inhibition of osteoblast terminal differentiation

Autophagy is a conserved lysosomal degradation process that has important roles in both normal human physiology and disease. However, the function of autophagy in bone homeostasis is not well understood. Here, we report that autophagy is activated during osteoblast differentiation. Ablation of focal adhesion kinase family interacting protein of 200 kD (FIP200), an essential component of mammalian autophagy, led to multiple autophagic defects in osteoblasts including aberrantly increased p62 expression, deficient LC3-II conversion, defective autophagy flux, absence of GFP-LC3 puncta in FIP200-null osteoblasts expressing transgenic GFP-LC3, and absence of autophagosome-like structures by electron microscope examination. Osteoblast-specific deletion of FIP200 led to osteopenia in mice. Histomorphometric analysis revealed that the osteopenia was the result of cell-autonomous effects of FIP200 deletion on osteoblasts. FIP200 deletion led to defective osteoblast terminal differentiation in both primary bone marrow and calvarial osteoblasts in vitro. Interestingly, both proliferation and differentiation were not adversely affected by FIP200 deletion in early cultures. However, FIP200 deletion led to defective osteoblast nodule formation after initial proliferation and differentiation. Furthermore, treatment with autophagy inhibitors recapitulated the effects of FIP200 deletion on osteoblast differentiation. Taken together, these data identify FIP200 as an important regulator of bone development and reveal a novel role of autophagy in osteoblast function through its positive role in supporting osteoblast nodule formation and differentiation.

Ultrastructural differentiation of abnormal scars

AIM

To evaluate the differences between keloid and hypertrophic scars by biochemical and ultrastructural techniques.

METHOD

Over 1000 patients with different types of scars were studied and followed up for a period of 20 years. The histochemical and biochemical analysis with respect to the composition of the extracellular matrix of the dermis was conducted. At the ultrastructural level, collagen deposition and assembly were studied using electron microscopy. The rate of proliferation and metabolic activity of the dermal fibroblasts isolated from the normal skin and scar biopsies were studied to assess the cause of excess matrix deposition in scar tissues.

RESULTS

Evaluation of different types of scars showed that both keloid and hypertrophic scars have excess matrix deposition in terms of collagen and proteoglycans. Keloid shows a high amount of acid-soluble collagen. The assembly of collagen fibrils is also abnormal in keloids. Studies on the proliferation and metabolic activity showed that keloid fibroblasts have a higher rate of proliferation and metabolic activity than fibroblasts from hypertrophic scars and normal skin. Finally, keloid fibroblasts show high and intense staining for the endoplasmic reticulum, suggesting a possible reason for high activity of these fibroblasts.

CONCLUSION

Keloids and hypertrophic scars show distinct ultrastructural patterns of both collagen deposition and assembly. These parameters could be refined by further research, and they would thus serve as a useful tool for surgeons to distinguish different types of scars and adopt suitable therapeutic strategies.