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Synovial Fibroblasts (synovial + fibroblast)
Kinds of Synovial Fibroblasts Selected AbstractsAmelioration of experimental arthritis by a telomerase-dependent conditionally replicating adenovirus that targets synovial fibroblastsARTHRITIS & RHEUMATISM, Issue 11 2009Shih-Yao Chen Objective Synovial fibroblasts (SFs) play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). It has been documented that the phenotype of rheumatoid synovium is similar, in many respects, to that of an aggressive tumor. In this study, a novel, genetically engineered adenovirus was designed to lyse SFs that exhibit high telomerase activity and p53 mutations, and its effects as a novel therapeutic strategy were assessed in an experimental arthritis model. Methods An E1B,55-kd,deleted adenovirus driven by the human telomerase reverse transcriptase promoter was constructed (designated Ad.GS1). Cytolysis of SFs and productive replication of Ad.GS1 in the SFs of rats with collagen-induced arthritis (CIA), as well as the SFs of patients with RA (RASFs), were assessed in vitro and in vivo. Treatment responses, as well as the presence of disease-related cytokines and enzymes in the ankle joints, were determined in the murine model. Results Ad.GS1 replicated in and induced cytolysis of human RASFs and SFs from arthritic rats, but spared normal fibroblasts. Bioluminescence imaging in vivo also demonstrated replication of Ad.GS1 in arthritic rat joints, but not in normal rat joints. Intraarticular administration of Ad.GS1 significantly reduced the ankle circumference, articular index scores, radiographic scores, and histologic scores and decreased the production of interleukin-1,, matrix metalloproteinase 9, and prolyl 4-hydroxylase in rats with CIA compared with their control counterparts. Conclusion This study is the first to demonstrate the amelioration of arthritic symptoms by a novel, telomerase-dependent adenovirus in the rat CIA model, an experimental model that resembles human RA. In addition, the results suggest that because of its ability to induce cytolysis of SFs, this virus may be further explored as a therapeutic agent in patients with RA. [source] Establishment of a matrix-associated transepithelial resistance invasion assay to precisely measure the invasive potential of synovial fibroblastsARTHRITIS & RHEUMATISM, Issue 9 2009Christina Wunrau Objective Synovial fibroblasts (SFs) contribute to several aspects of the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and have been implicated most prominently in the progressive destruction of articular cartilage. Targeting the invasive phenotype of RASFs has therefore gained increasing attention, but the precise measurement of their invasive capacity and the evaluation of potential treatment effects constitute a challenge that needs to be addressed. This study used a novel in vitro invasion assay based on the breakdown of transepithelial electrical resistance to determine the course of fibroblast invasion into extracellular matrix. Methods A matrix-associated transepithelial resistance invasion (MATRIN) assay was used to assess SFs from patients with RA in comparison with SFs from patients with osteoarthritis (OA). The SFs were grown on a commercially available collagen mix that was placed onto the upper side of a Transwell polycarbonate membrane. In addition, freshly isolated cartilage extracts were studied to assess the conditions in vivo. Under this membrane, a monolayer of MDCK-C7 cells was seeded to create a high electrical resistance. Results Invasion of fibroblasts into the matrix affected the integrity of the MDCK-C7 monolayer and led to a measurable decrease and subsequent breakdown of electrical resistance. Unlike in the assay with OASFs, which did not achieve a breakdown of resistance up to 72 hours, RASFs exhibited a pronounced invasiveness in this assay, with a 50% breakdown after 42 hours. Treatment of fibroblasts with either a matrix metalloproteinase inhibitor or antibodies against ,1 integrin significantly reduced the invasiveness of RASFs. Conclusion The MATRIN assay is a valuable and sensitive biologic assay system that can be used to determine precisely the invasive potential of RASFs in vitro, and thus would be suitable for screening anti-invasion compounds. [source] Induction of CCL13 expression in synovial fibroblasts highlights a significant role of oncostatin M in rheumatoid arthritisARTHRITIS & RHEUMATISM, Issue 7 2009Christoph Hintzen Objective To investigate the molecular mechanisms of CCL13/monocyte chemoattractant protein 4 (MCP-4) chemokine expression through proinflammatory cytokines in different primary human fibroblasts and the contribution of CCL13 to monocyte migration. Methods Using RNase protection assays and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, we quantified the expression of CCL13 compared with that of CCL2/MCP-1 in primary human fibroblasts. Boyden chamber assays were performed to determine the importance of CCL13 for migration of primary monocytes. Pharmacologic inhibitors as well as small interfering RNA knockdown approaches were used to investigate the signaling pathways regulating CCL13 expression. Results The interleukin-6 (IL-6),type cytokine oncostatin M (OSM) was a powerful inducer of CCL13 expression in primary synovial fibroblasts from patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) as well as those from healthy control subjects but not in other types of fibroblasts. Neither IL-6 nor tumor necrosis factor , could stimulate the expression of CCL13 in synovial fibroblasts; IL-1, was a very weak inducer. Synovial fibroblasts from patients with RA constitutively produced low amounts of CCL13, which was partially dependent on constitutive production of OSM. By investigating the underlying molecular mechanism, we identified STAT-5, ERK-1/2, and p38 as critical factors involved in OSM-dependent transcription and messenger RNA stabilization of CCL13. Conclusion In contrast to other prominent cytokines involved in the pathogenesis of RA, OSM can strongly up-regulate the expression of CCL13, a chemokine recently identified in the synovial fluid of patients with RA. Despite potent OSM-induced signal transduction in all types of fibroblasts analyzed, only synovial fibroblasts secreted CCL13, which might be indicative of tissue-specific imprinting of different fibroblasts during development. [source] Membrane type 1 matrix metalloproteinase is a crucial promoter of synovial invasion in human rheumatoid arthritisARTHRITIS & RHEUMATISM, Issue 3 2009Mary-Clare Miller Objective A hallmark of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is invasion of the synovial pannus into cartilage, and this process requires degradation of the collagen matrix. The aim of this study was to explore the role of one of the collagen-degrading matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), membrane type 1 MMP (MT1-MMP), in synovial pannus invasiveness. Methods The expression and localization of MT1-MMP in human RA pannus were investigated by Western blot analysis of primary synovial cells and immunohistochemical analysis of RA joint specimens. The functional role of MT1-MMP was analyzed by 3-dimensional (3-D) collagen invasion assays and a cartilage invasion assay in the presence or absence of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases 1 (TIMP-1), TIMP-2, or GM6001. The effect of adenoviral expression of a dominant-negative MT1-MMP construct lacking a catalytic domain was also examined. Results MT1-MMP was highly expressed at the pannus,cartilage junction in RA joints. Freshly isolated rheumatoid synovial tissue and isolated RA synovial fibroblasts invaded into a 3-D collagen matrix in an MT1-MMP,dependent manner. Invasion was blocked by TIMP-2 and GM6001 but not by TIMP-1. Invasion was also inhibited by the overexpression of a dominant-negative MT1-MMP, which inhibits collagenolytic activity and proMMP-2 activation by MT1-MMP on the cell surface. Synovial fibroblasts also invaded into cartilage in an MT1-MMP,dependent manner. This process was further enhanced by removing aggrecan from the cartilage matrix. Conclusion MT1-MMP serves as an essential collagen-degrading proteinase during pannus invasion in human RA. Specific inhibition of MT1-MMP,dependent invasion may represent a novel therapeutic strategy for RA. [source] Microparticles stimulate the synthesis of prostaglandin E2 via induction of cyclooxygenase 2 and microsomal prostaglandin E synthase 1ARTHRITIS & RHEUMATISM, Issue 11 2007Astrid Jüngel Objective Microparticles are small vesicles that are released from activated or dying cells and that occur abundantly in the synovial fluid of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The goal of these studies was to elucidate the mechanisms by which microparticles activate synovial fibroblasts to express a proinflammatory phenotype. Methods Microparticles from monocytes and T cells were isolated by differential centrifugation. Synovial fibroblasts were cocultured with increasing numbers of microparticles. Gene expression was analyzed by real-time polymerase chain reaction and confirmed by Western blotting and enzyme immunoassay. Arachidonic acid labeled with tritium was used to study the transport of biologically active lipids by microparticles. The roles of NF-,B and activator protein 1 (AP-1) signaling were analyzed with electrophoretic mobility shift assay and transfection with small interfering RNA and I,B expression vectors. Results Microparticles strongly induced the synthesis of cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2), microsomal prostaglandin E synthase 1 (mPGES-1), and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2). In contrast, no up-regulation of COX-1, mPGES-2, cytosolic PGES, or phospholipase A2 was observed. The induction of PGE2 was blocked by selective inhibition of COX-2. Microparticles activated NF-,B, AP-1, p38, and JNK signaling in synovial fibroblasts. Inhibition of NF-,B, AP-1, and JNK signaling reduced the stimulatory effects. Arachidonic acid was transported from leukocytes to fibroblasts by microparticles. Arachidonic acid derived from microparticles was converted to PGE2 by synovial fibroblasts. Conclusion These results demonstrate that microparticles up-regulate the production of PGE2 in synovial fibroblasts by inducing COX-2 and mPGES-1. These data provide evidence for a novel mechanism by which microparticles may contribute to inflammation and pain in RA. [source] Inhibitor of DNA binding/differentiation 2 induced by hypoxia promotes synovial fibroblast,dependent osteoclastogenesisARTHRITIS & RHEUMATISM, Issue 12 2009Mariola Kurowska-Stolarska Objective To map hypoxic areas in arthritic synovium and to establish the relevance of low oxygen levels to the phenotype of synovial fibroblasts, with special focus on bone degradation. Methods To analyze the distribution of hypoxia in arthritic joints, the hypoxia marker EF5 was administered to mice with collagen-induced arthritis (CIA). To evaluate the effect of hypoxia on rheumatoid arthritis synovial fibroblasts (RASFs), reverse suppression subtractive hybridization and complementary DNA array were used. Real-time polymerase chain reaction, Western blotting, and immunohistochemistry were used to evaluate the expression of inhibitor of DNA binding/differentiation 2 (ID-2). To investigate the function of ID-2 in RASFs, cells were transfected either with ID-2 vector or with ID-2,specific small interfering RNA. Results EF5 staining showed the presence of hypoxia in arthritic joints, particularly at sites of synovial invasion into bone. Differential expression analysis revealed that ID-2 was strongly induced by hypoxia in RASFs. Immunohistochemical analysis of CIA mouse synovium and human RA synovium showed a strong expression of ID-2 by RASFs at sites of synovial invasion into bone. Overexpression of ID-2 in RASFs significantly induced the expression of several factors promoting osteoclastogenesis. The biologic relevance of the potent osteoclastogenesis-promoting effects was shown by coculture assays of ID-2,overexpressing RASFs with bone marrow cells, leading to an increased differentiation of osteoclasts from bone marrow precursors. Conclusion The data show that hypoxic conditions are present at sites of inflammation and synovial invasion into bone in arthritic synovium. Hypoxia-induced ID-2 may contribute to joint destruction in RA patients by promoting synovial fibroblast,dependent osteoclastogenesis. [source] Adenosine downregulates cytokine-induced expression of intercellular adhesion molecule-1 on rheumatoid synovial fibroblasts independently of adenosine receptor signalingDRUG DEVELOPMENT RESEARCH, Issue 4 2003Takashi Nakazawa Abstract Adhesion of fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLSs) to T cells through the interaction of lymphocyte function-associated antigen-1 (LFA-1) and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). We therefore used flow cytometry and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to examine the effect of adenosine and its derivatives on expression of ICAM-1 induced by tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interferon-gamma in primary rheumatoid FLSs (RA-FLSs) and E11 cells, an RA-FLS line. Exposing cells to adenosine (5,500 µM) for 24 h in the presence of coformycin, an adenosine deaminase inhibitor, concentration-dependently inhibited cytokine-induced transcription of ICAM-1 mRNA, as well as subsequent surface expression of the protein. Although transcription of all four adenosine receptor isoforms has been detected in FLSs, neither the A1 receptor agonist R-PIA, the A2A receptor agonist CGS21680 nor the A3 agonist Cl-IB-MECA had any effect on cytokine-induced ICAM-1 expression. Conversely, A1/A2 receptor antagonist xanthine amine congener and A2A antagonist ZM240385 both failed to suppress the effect of adenosine. Adenosine appears to inhibit cytokine-induced ICAM-1 expression in FLSs independently of adenosine receptor-mediated signaling. By contrast, the effect of adenosine was neutralized by nitrobenzylmercaptopurin, a nucleoside transporter inhibitor, or by ABT702, an adenosine kinase inhibitor. This suggests that adenosine taken up via the nucleoside transporter is phosphorylated by adenosine kinase, and the resultant phospho-adenosine interferes with the ICAM-1 transcription and cell surface expression. Downregulation of T cell,FLS interaction by adenosine may thus represent a novel approach to the treatment of RA. Drug Dev. Res. 58:368,376, 2003. © 2003 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Effect of heparinoid on the production of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases (TIMP)-3 in rheumatoid synovial fibroblastsJOURNAL OF PHARMACY AND PHARMACOLOGY: AN INTERNATI ONAL JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCE, Issue 5 2002Hideki Watanabe Heparinoid is one of the major contents of Mobilat widely used as an antirheumatic drug. To clarify the precise mechanisms of the antirheumatic effect of heparinoid, we investigated its effects on the production of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) from rheumatoid synovial fibroblasts stimulated (or not) with interleukin-1 alpha (IL-1,) at 100 units mL,1. The expression of TIMP-3 mRNA was also investigated in a similar manner. The production of both MMPs and TIMPs and the expression of TIMP-3 mRNA were investigated by western-blot analysis and northern-blot hybridization, respectively. Under the stimulation of IL-1,, heparinoid increased the production of TIMP-3 in a concentration-dependent manner, but not TIMP-1, TIMP-2, MMP-1 or MMP-3. Heparinoid did not affect the expression of TIMP-3 mRNA that was increased by the stimulation of IL-1,. These findings suggest that the anti-rheumatoid effect of heparinoid may be due to increased production of TIMP-3. This increase in TIMP-3 may help redress the imbalance between the amounts of MMPs and TIMPs as observed in the joint tissues of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis patients. [source] Adiponectin-mediated changes in effector cells involved in the pathophysiology of rheumatoid arthritisARTHRITIS & RHEUMATISM, Issue 10 2010Klaus W. Frommer Objective Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is associated with increased production of adipokines, which are cytokine-like mediators that are produced mainly in adipose tissue but also in synovial cells. Since RA synovial fibroblasts (RASFs), lymphocytes, endothelial cells, and chondrocytes are key players in the pathophysiology of RA, this study was undertaken to analyze the effects of the key adipokine adiponectin on proinflammatory and prodestructive synovial effector cells. Methods Lymphocytes were activated in part prior to stimulation. All cells were stimulated with adiponectin, and changes in gene and protein expression were determined by Affymetrix and protein arrays. Messenger RNA and protein levels were confirmed using semiquantitative reverse transcription,polymerase chain reaction (PCR), real-time PCR, and immunoassays. Intracellular signal transduction was evaluated using chemical signaling inhibitors. Results Adiponectin stimulation of human RASFs predominantly induced the secretion of chemokines, as well as proinflammatory cytokines, prostaglandin synthases, growth factors, and factors of bone metabolism and matrix remodeling. Lymphocytes, endothelial cells, and chondrocytes responded to adiponectin stimulation with enhanced synthesis of cytokines and various chemokines. Additionally, chondrocytes released increased amounts of matrix metalloproteinases. In RASFs, adiponectin-mediated effects were p38 MAPK and protein kinase C dependent. Conclusion Our previous findings indicated that adiponectin was present in inflamed synovium, at sites of cartilage invasion, in lymphocyte infiltrates, and in perivascular areas. The findings of the present study indicate that adiponectin induces gene expression and protein synthesis in human RASFs, lymphocytes, endothelial cells, and chondrocytes, supporting the concept of adiponectin being involved in the pathophysiologic modulation of RA effector cells. Adiponectin promotes inflammation through cytokine synthesis, attraction of inflammatory cells to the synovium, and recruitment of prodestructive cells via chemokines, thus promoting matrix destruction at sites of cartilage invasion. [source] Glucocorticoid-induced leucine zipper is an endogenous antiinflammatory mediator in arthritisARTHRITIS & RHEUMATISM, Issue 9 2010Elaine Beaulieu Objective Glucocorticoid-induced leucine zipper (GILZ) is a glucocorticoid-induced protein, the reported molecular interactions of which suggest that it functions to inhibit inflammation. However, the role of endogenous GILZ in the regulation of inflammation in vivo has not been established. This study was undertaken to examine the expression and function of GILZ in vivo in collagen-induced arthritis (CIA), a murine model of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and in RA synoviocytes. Methods GILZ expression was detected in mouse and human synovium by immunohistochemistry and in cultured cells by real-time polymerase chain reaction and permeabilization flow cytometry. GILZ function was assessed in vivo by small interfering RNA (siRNA) silencing using cationic liposome,encapsulated GILZ or control nontargeting siRNA and was assessed in vitro using transient overexpression. Results GILZ was readily detectable in the synovium of mice with CIA and was up-regulated by therapeutic doses of glucocorticoids. Depleting GILZ expression in vivo increased the clinical and histologic severity of CIA and increased synovial expression of tumor necrosis factor and interleukin-1 (IL-1), without affecting the levels of circulating cytokines or anticollagen antibodies. GILZ was highly expressed in the synovium of patients with active RA and in cultured RA synovial fibroblasts, and GILZ overexpression in synovial fibroblasts inhibited IL-6 and IL-8 release. Conclusion Our findings indicate that GILZ functions as an endogenous inhibitor of chronic inflammation via effects on cytokine expression and suggest that local modulation of GILZ expression could be a beneficial therapeutic strategy. [source] Trex-1 deficiency in rheumatoid arthritis synovial fibroblastsARTHRITIS & RHEUMATISM, Issue 9 2010Michel Neidhart Objective To explore whether the increased expression of long interspersed nuclear element 1 (LINE-1; L1) messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein in rheumatoid arthritis synovial fibroblasts (RASFs) is associated with decreased expression of Trex-1, an exonuclease involved in the metabolization of L1 DNA:RNA hybrids. Methods Chromatin immunoprecipitation was used to detect L1-related p40 protein (L1-ORF1p) binding sequences in RASFs. Luciferase activity was measured in the synovial fibroblasts following cotransfection of the episomal plasmid with pJM105 expressing L1-ORF1p and pGL3-TS3 carrying the target sequence for L1-ORF1p. This luciferase reporter assay was used to compare the activity between RASFs and osteoarthritis synovial fibroblasts (OASFs) and to assess correlations of luciferase activity with the expression of Trex-1 measured by flow cytometry. The expression of Trex-1 mRNA and protein was also compared using real-time polymerase chain reaction, immunohistochemistry, and Western blot analyses. The role of Trex-1 in the L1-ORF1p,mediated luciferase activity assay was studied using interfering RNAs (iRNA) and a Trex-1 expression vector. Results Increased luciferase activity occurred after cotransfection of synovial fibroblasts with pJM105 and pGL3-TS3. L1-ORF1p activity was increased in RASFs as compared with OASFs, and this was correlated inversely with the expression of Trex-1. Levels of Trex-1 mRNA and protein were lower in RASFs than in OASFs. After transfection of the L1 expression plasmid, Trex-1 mRNA levels increased in OASFs, but not in RASFs. The addition of iRNA against Trex-1, however, resulted in an enhancement of L1-ORF1p activity in OASFs to the levels measured in RASFs. Overexpression of Trex-1 inhibited 5-azacytidine,induced expression of p38, MAPK, a gene carrying the TS3 sequence. Conclusion The deficiency of Trex-1 in RASFs allows a longer half-life of gene products encoded by active endogenous L1 retrotransposons. This pathway may play a role in diseases in which the cells exhibit a "spontaneous" aggressive behavior. [source] Adiponectin stimulates prostaglandin E2 production in rheumatoid arthritis synovial fibroblastsARTHRITIS & RHEUMATISM, Issue 6 2010Natsuko Kusunoki Objective Adipokines may influence inflammatory and/or immune responses. This study was undertaken to examine whether adiponectin affects the production of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) by rheumatoid arthritis synovial fibroblasts (RASFs). Methods Synovial tissue was obtained from patients with RA who were undergoing joint replacement surgery. Fibroblast-like cells from the third or fourth passage were used as RASFs. Expression of adiponectin receptor messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein was detected. PGE2 (converted from arachidonic acid) was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Expression of mRNA and protein for cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) and membrane-associated PGE synthase 1 (mPGES-1), key enzymes involved in PGE2 synthesis, was detected in RASFs. The effects of RNA interference (RNAi) targeting the adiponectin receptor genes and the receptor signal inhibitors were examined. The influence of adiponectin on NF-,B activation in RASFs was measured with an ELISA kit. Results Adiponectin receptors were detected in RASFs. Adiponectin increased both COX-2 and mPGES-1 mRNA and protein expression by RASFs in a time- and concentration-dependent manner. PGE2 production by RASFs was also increased by the addition of adiponectin, and this increase was inhibited by RNAi for the adiponectin receptor gene, or coincubation with the receptor signal inhibitors. Enhancement of NF-,B activation by adiponectin as well as by interleukin-1, was observed in RASFs. Conclusion Our findings indicate that adiponectin induces COX-2 and mPGES-1 expression, resulting in the enhancement of PGE2 production by RASFs. Thus, adiponectin may play a role in the pathogenesis of synovitis in RA patients. [source] META060 inhibits osteoclastogenesis and matrix metalloproteinases in vitro and reduces bone and cartilage degradation in a mouse model of rheumatoid arthritisARTHRITIS & RHEUMATISM, Issue 6 2010Veera Reddy Konda Objective The multikinase inhibitor META060 has been shown to inhibit NF-,B activation and expression of markers of inflammation. This study was undertaken to investigate the effect of META060 on biomarkers associated with bone and cartilage degradation in vitro and its antiinflammatory efficacy in vivo in both acute and chronic inflammation models. Methods Glycogen synthase kinase 3, (GSK3,),dependent ,-catenin phosphorylation was evaluated in RAW 264.7 macrophages to assess kinase inhibition. The inhibition of osteoclastogenesis and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) activity was evaluated in RANKL-treated RAW 264.7 cells. The inhibition of interleukin-1, (IL-1,),mediated markers of inflammation was analyzed in human rheumatoid arthritis synovial fibroblasts (RASFs). Mice with carrageenan-induced acute inflammation and collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) were used to assess efficacy. Results META060 inhibited the activity of kinases (spleen tyrosine kinase [Syk], Bruton's tyrosine kinase [Btk], phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase [PI 3-kinase], and GSK3) associated with RA and inhibited ,-catenin phosphorylation. META060 inhibited osteoclastogenesis, as indicated by decreased transformation of RAW 264.7 cells to osteoclasts and reduced TRAP activity, and inhibited IL-1,,activated prostaglandin E2, matrix metalloproteinase 3, IL-6, IL-8, and monocyte chemotactic protein 1 in RASFs. In mice with acute inflammation, oral administration of META060 reduced paw swelling similar to the effect of aspirin. In mice with CIA, META060 significantly reduced the arthritis index and decreased bone, joint, and cartilage degradation. Serum IL-6 concentrations in these mice were inhibited in a dose-dependent manner. Conclusion Our findings indicate that META060 reduces swelling in a model of acute inflammation and inhibits bone and cartilage destruction in a model of chronic inflammation. Its efficacy is associated with the inhibition of multiple protein kinases, including Syk, Btk, PI 3-kinase, and GSK3. These results warrant further clinical testing of META060 for its therapeutic potential in the treatment of inflammatory diseases. [source] Inhibition of fibroblast activation protein and dipeptidylpeptidase 4 increases cartilage invasion by rheumatoid arthritis synovial fibroblastsARTHRITIS & RHEUMATISM, Issue 5 2010Caroline Ospelt Objective Since fibroblasts in the synovium of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) express the serine proteases fibroblast activation protein (FAP) and dipeptidylpeptidase 4 (DPP-4)/CD26, we undertook the current study to determine the functional role of both enzymes in the invasion of RA synovial fibroblasts (RASFs) into articular cartilage. Methods Expression of FAP and DPP-4/CD26 by RASFs was analyzed using fluorescence-activated cell sorting and immunocytochemistry. Serine protease activity was measured by cleavage of fluorogenic substrates and inhibited upon treatment with L-glutamyl L-boroproline. The induction and expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) in RASFs were detected using real-time polymerase chain reaction. Densitometric measurements of MMPs using immunoblotting confirmed our findings on the messenger RNA level. Stromal cell,derived factor 1 (SDF-1 [CXCL12]), MMP-1, and MMP-3 protein levels were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The impact of FAP and DPP-4/CD26 inhibition on the invasiveness of RASFs was analyzed in the SCID mouse coimplantation model of RA using immunohistochemistry. Results Inhibition of serine protease activity of FAP and DPP-4/CD26 in vitro led to increased levels of SDF-1 in concert with MMP-1 and MMP-3, which are downstream effectors of SDF-1 signaling. Using the SCID mouse coimplantation model, inhibition of enzymatic activity in vivo significantly promoted invasion of xenotransplanted RASFs into cotransplanted human cartilage. Zones of cartilage resorption were infiltrated by FAP-expressing RASFs and marked by a significantly higher accumulation of MMP-1 and MMP-3, when compared with controls. Conclusion Our results indicate a central role for the serine protease activity of FAP and DPP-4/CD26 in protecting articular cartilage against invasion by synovial fibroblasts in RA. [source] Mast cell,derived tryptase inhibits apoptosis of human rheumatoid synovial fibroblasts via rho-mediated signalingARTHRITIS & RHEUMATISM, Issue 4 2010Norifumi Sawamukai Objective An abundance of mast cells are found in the synovium of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). However, the role of mast cells in the pathogenesis of RA remains unclear. This study was undertaken to elucidate a role for mast cells in RA by investigating the antiapoptotic effects of tryptase, a major product of mast cells, on RA synovial fibroblasts (RASFs). Methods RA synovial tissue was obtained from RA patients during joint replacement surgery, and histologic changes in the tissue were examined. The expression of cell surface molecules and apoptotic markers on RASFs were detected by flow cytometry. Rho activation was determined using a pull-down assay. Results Mast cells, bearing both c-Kit and tryptase, accumulated in the sublining area of proliferating synovial tissue from RA patients. Protease-activated receptor 2 (PAR-2), a receptor for tryptase, was expressed on RASFs in the lining area, close to tryptase-positive mast cells in the RA synovium. Fas-mediated apoptosis of RASFs was significantly inhibited, in a dose-dependent manner, by the addition of tryptase, and this effect correlated with increased activation of Rho kinase. Furthermore, Y27632, a Rho kinase inhibitor, reduced the antiapoptotic effect of tryptase on RASFs, suggesting that Rho was responsible for the antiapoptotic effects of tryptase. Conclusion These results demonstrate that tryptase has a strong antiapoptotic effect on RASFs through the activation of Rho. Thus, we propose that the release of tryptase by mast cells leads to the binding of tryptase to PAR-2 on RASFs and inhibits the apoptosis of RASFs via the activation of Rho. Such mechanisms could play a pivotal role in the marked proliferation of RASFs and hyperplasia of synovial tissue seen in RA synovium. [source] Blocking ERK-1/2 reduces tumor necrosis factor ,,induced interleukin-18 bioactivity in rheumatoid arthritis synovial fibroblasts by induction of interleukin-18 binding protein AARTHRITIS & RHEUMATISM, Issue 3 2010Hubert Marotte Objective To examine the mechanism of regulation of interleukin-18 (IL-18) bioactivity by IL-18 binding protein (IL-18BP) induction. Methods Levels of IL-18 and IL-18BPa in synovial fluid samples from patients with osteoarthritis (OA) or rheumatoid arthritis (RA) were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs), followed by calculation of free IL-18. IL-18 and IL-18BPa synthesis in RA synovial fibroblasts that had been treated with proinflammatory and antiinflammatory cytokines were assessed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and ELISA, respectively, followed by IL-18 bioactivity determination using KG-1 cells. Chemical signaling inhibitors were used for determination of the signal transduction pathways involved in IL-18BPa/IL-18 regulation. Tumor necrosis factor , (TNF,),induced caspase 1 activity was determined by a colorimetric assay. Results IL-18BPa was lower in RA synovial fluid than in OA synovial fluid (P < 0.05; n = 8), and free IL-18 was higher in RA synovial fluid than in OA synovial fluid. TNF, induced RA synovial fibroblast IL-18BPa and IL-18 in a time-dependent manner (P < 0.05). Evaluation of signaling pathways suggested that TNF, induced IL-18 production through the ERK-1/2, protein kinase C, (PKC,), and Src pathways, whereas IL-18BPa synthesis was mediated through the NF,B, PKC, Src, and JNK pathways. Furthermore, addition of exogenous IL-18BPa-Fc reduced the RA synovial fibroblast phosphorylation of ERK-1/2 induced by TNF,. Conclusion These results suggest that IL-18BPa reduces IL-18 bioactivity induced by TNF,, by regulating the ERK-1/2 pathway in RA synovial fibroblasts. Targeting IL-18 bioactivity by induction or addition of IL-18BPa may provide another therapeutic option in the management of RA. [source] Involvement of MAPKs and NF-,B in tumor necrosis factor ,,induced vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 expression in human rheumatoid arthritis synovial fibroblastsARTHRITIS & RHEUMATISM, Issue 1 2010Shue-Fen Luo Objective To investigate the roles of MAPKs and NF-,B in tumor necrosis factor , (TNF,),induced expression of vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (VCAM-1) in human rheumatoid arthritis synovial fibroblasts (RASFs). Methods Human RASFs were isolated from synovial tissue obtained from patients with RA who underwent knee or hip surgery. The involvement of MAPKs and NF-,B in TNF,-induced VCAM-1 expression was investigated using pharmacologic inhibitors and transfection with short hairpin RNA (shRNA) and measured using Western blot, reverse transcriptase,polymerase chain reaction, and gene promoter assay. NF-,B translocation was determined by Western blot and immunofluorescence staining. The functional activity of VCAM-1 was evaluated by lymphocyte adhesion assay. Results TNF,-induced VCAM-1 expression, phosphorylation of p42/p44 MAPK, p38 MAPK, and JNK, and translocation of NF-,B were attenuated by the inhibitors of MEK-1/2 (U0126), p38 (SB202190), JNK (SP600125), and NF-,B (helenalin) or by transfection with their respective shRNA. TNF,-stimulated translocation of NF-,B into the nucleus and NF-,B promoter activity were blocked by Bay11-7082, but not by U0126, SB202190, or SP600125. VCAM-1 promoter activity was enhanced by TNF, in RASFs transfected with VCAM-1-Luc, and this promoter activity was inhibited by Bay11-7082, U0126, SB202190, and SP600125. Moreover, up-regulation of VCAM-1 increased the adhesion of lymphocytes to the RASF monolayer, and this adhesion was attenuated by pretreatment with helenalin, U0126, SP600125, or SB202190 prior to exposure to TNF, or by anti,VCAM-1 antibody before the addition of lymphocytes. Conclusion In RASFs, TNF,-induced VCAM-1 expression is mediated through activation of the p42/p44 MAPK, p38 MAPK, JNK, and NF-,B pathways. These results provide new insights into the mechanisms underlying cytokine-initiated joint inflammation in RA and may inspire new targeted therapeutic approaches. [source] DNA hypomethylation in rheumatoid arthritis synovial fibroblastsARTHRITIS & RHEUMATISM, Issue 12 2009Emmanuel Karouzakis Objective Rheumatoid arthritis synovial fibroblasts (RASFs) are phenotypically activated and aggressive. We undertook this study to investigate whether the intrinsic activation of RASFs is due to global genomic hypomethylation, an epigenetic modification. Methods Global genomic hypomethylation was assessed by immunohistochemistry, flow cytometry, and L1 promoter bisulfite sequencing. The levels of Dnmt1 were determined in synovial tissue and cultured SFs by Western blotting before and after treatment with cytokines and growth factors. Normal SFs were treated for 3 months with a nontoxic dose of the DNA hypomethylation drug 5-azacytidine (5-azaC), and changes in gene expression were revealed using complementary DNA arrays. The phenotypic changes were confirmed by flow cytometry. Results In situ and in vitro, RASF DNA had fewer 5-methylcytosine and methylated CG sites upstream of an L1 open-reading frame than did DNA of osteoarthritis SFs, and proliferating RASFs were deficient in Dnmt1. Using 5-azaC, we reproduced the activated phenotype of RASFs in normal SFs. One hundred eighty-six genes were up-regulated >2-fold by hypomethylation, with enhanced protein expression. These included growth factors and receptors, extracellular matrix proteins, adhesion molecules, and matrix-degrading enzymes. The hypomethylating milieu induced irreversible phenotypic changes in normal SFs, which resembled those of the activated phenotype of RASFs. Conclusion DNA hypomethylation contributes to the chronicity of RA and could be responsible for the limitation of current therapies. [source] Glucocorticoids increase ,5 integrin expression and adhesion of synovial fibroblasts but inhibit ERK signaling, migration, and cartilage invasionARTHRITIS & RHEUMATISM, Issue 12 2009Torsten Lowin Objective In rheumatoid arthritis (RA), integrins mediate cell adhesion, migration, and invasion, and their expression is regulated by cytokines and growth factors. The aim of this study was to investigate whether hormones such as cortisol or other steroids can influence integrin expression and function in the synovial cells of patients with RA. Methods We performed immunofluorescence and fluorescence-activated cell sorting analyses to quantify surface integrin levels. Adhesion and migration assays were performed to study the function of synovial fibroblasts (SFs). ERK activation was measured by cellular activation of a signaling enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Invasion of SFs into cartilage was determined in the SCID mouse coimplantation model of RA in vivo. Results In RA, expression of integrin subunits ,5, ,v, and ,1 was higher at the site of invasion compared with the sublining zone. Testosterone and 17,-estradiol had no influence on integrin levels, but cortisol up-regulated expression of the ,5 subunit in a time-dependent and dose-dependent manner. In addition, cortisol increased the adhesion of SFs to fibronectin and inhibited ERK signaling upon integrin activation or upon stimulation with tumor necrosis factor. Small interfering RNA or a neutralizing antibody to ,5 integrin increased SF migration, indicating that up-regulated ,5 integrin is responsible for an immobile phenotype. In addition, in the SCID mouse model, SF invasion into cartilage was attenuated by glucocorticoid treatment in vivo. Conclusion Glucocorticoids increase integrin expression and the adhesion of cells to fibronectin, inhibit ERK signaling, and down-regulate the invasiveness of SFs in vivo. This study demonstrates that an important antiinflammatory aspect of glucocorticoids is regulating the expression and function of ,5 integrin. [source] Inhibitor of DNA binding/differentiation 2 induced by hypoxia promotes synovial fibroblast,dependent osteoclastogenesisARTHRITIS & RHEUMATISM, Issue 12 2009Mariola Kurowska-Stolarska Objective To map hypoxic areas in arthritic synovium and to establish the relevance of low oxygen levels to the phenotype of synovial fibroblasts, with special focus on bone degradation. Methods To analyze the distribution of hypoxia in arthritic joints, the hypoxia marker EF5 was administered to mice with collagen-induced arthritis (CIA). To evaluate the effect of hypoxia on rheumatoid arthritis synovial fibroblasts (RASFs), reverse suppression subtractive hybridization and complementary DNA array were used. Real-time polymerase chain reaction, Western blotting, and immunohistochemistry were used to evaluate the expression of inhibitor of DNA binding/differentiation 2 (ID-2). To investigate the function of ID-2 in RASFs, cells were transfected either with ID-2 vector or with ID-2,specific small interfering RNA. Results EF5 staining showed the presence of hypoxia in arthritic joints, particularly at sites of synovial invasion into bone. Differential expression analysis revealed that ID-2 was strongly induced by hypoxia in RASFs. Immunohistochemical analysis of CIA mouse synovium and human RA synovium showed a strong expression of ID-2 by RASFs at sites of synovial invasion into bone. Overexpression of ID-2 in RASFs significantly induced the expression of several factors promoting osteoclastogenesis. The biologic relevance of the potent osteoclastogenesis-promoting effects was shown by coculture assays of ID-2,overexpressing RASFs with bone marrow cells, leading to an increased differentiation of osteoclasts from bone marrow precursors. Conclusion The data show that hypoxic conditions are present at sites of inflammation and synovial invasion into bone in arthritic synovium. Hypoxia-induced ID-2 may contribute to joint destruction in RA patients by promoting synovial fibroblast,dependent osteoclastogenesis. [source] Differential mechanism of NF-,B inhibition by two glucocorticoid receptor modulators in rheumatoid arthritis synovial fibroblastsARTHRITIS & RHEUMATISM, Issue 11 2009Valerie Gossye Objective To investigate and compare the molecular mechanisms by which 2 glucocorticoid receptor (GR),activating compounds, dexamethasone (DEX) and Compound A (CpdA), interfere with the NF-,B activation pathway in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) synovial cells. Methods Quantitative polymerase chain reaction was performed to detect the tumor necrosis factor , (TNF,),induced cytokine gene expression of interleukin-1, (IL-1,) and to investigate the effects of DEX and CpdA in RA fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS) transfected with small interfering RNA (siRNA) against GR (siGR) compared with nontransfected cells. Immunofluorescence analysis was used to detect the subcellular distribution of NF-,B (p65) under the various treatment conditions, and active DNA-bound p65 was measured using a TransAM assay and by chromatin immunoprecipitation analysis of IL-1,. Signaling pathways were studied via Western blotting of siGR-transfected cells, compared with nontransfected and nontargeting siRNA,transfected control cells, to detect the regulation of phospho-IKK, I,B,, phospho-p38, phospho-ERK, and phospho-JNK. Results Both DEX and CpdA efficiently inhibited IL-1, gene expression in a GR-dependent manner. In addition, CpdA attenuated the TNF,-induced nuclear translocation and DNA binding of p65 in RA FLS, via the attenuation of IKK phosphorylation and subsequent I,B, degradation. CpdA also displayed profound effects on TNF,-induced MAPK activation. The effects of CpdA on TNF,-induced kinase activities occurred independently of the presence of GR. In sharp contrast, DEX did not affect TNF,-induced IKK phosphorylation, I,B, degradation, p65 nuclear translocation, or MAPK activation in RA FLS. Conclusion DEX and CpdA display a dissimilar molecular mechanism of interaction with the NF-,B activation pathway ex vivo. A dual pathway, partially dependent and partially independent of GR (nongenomic), may explain the gene-inhibitory effects of CpdA in RA FLS. [source] Amelioration of experimental arthritis by a telomerase-dependent conditionally replicating adenovirus that targets synovial fibroblastsARTHRITIS & RHEUMATISM, Issue 11 2009Shih-Yao Chen Objective Synovial fibroblasts (SFs) play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). It has been documented that the phenotype of rheumatoid synovium is similar, in many respects, to that of an aggressive tumor. In this study, a novel, genetically engineered adenovirus was designed to lyse SFs that exhibit high telomerase activity and p53 mutations, and its effects as a novel therapeutic strategy were assessed in an experimental arthritis model. Methods An E1B,55-kd,deleted adenovirus driven by the human telomerase reverse transcriptase promoter was constructed (designated Ad.GS1). Cytolysis of SFs and productive replication of Ad.GS1 in the SFs of rats with collagen-induced arthritis (CIA), as well as the SFs of patients with RA (RASFs), were assessed in vitro and in vivo. Treatment responses, as well as the presence of disease-related cytokines and enzymes in the ankle joints, were determined in the murine model. Results Ad.GS1 replicated in and induced cytolysis of human RASFs and SFs from arthritic rats, but spared normal fibroblasts. Bioluminescence imaging in vivo also demonstrated replication of Ad.GS1 in arthritic rat joints, but not in normal rat joints. Intraarticular administration of Ad.GS1 significantly reduced the ankle circumference, articular index scores, radiographic scores, and histologic scores and decreased the production of interleukin-1,, matrix metalloproteinase 9, and prolyl 4-hydroxylase in rats with CIA compared with their control counterparts. Conclusion This study is the first to demonstrate the amelioration of arthritic symptoms by a novel, telomerase-dependent adenovirus in the rat CIA model, an experimental model that resembles human RA. In addition, the results suggest that because of its ability to induce cytolysis of SFs, this virus may be further explored as a therapeutic agent in patients with RA. [source] Human inflammatory synovial fibroblasts induce enhanced myeloid cell recruitment and angiogenesis through a hypoxia-inducible transcription factor 1,/vascular endothelial growth factor,mediated pathway in immunodeficient miceARTHRITIS & RHEUMATISM, Issue 10 2009Manuel J. del Rey Objective Hyperplasia and phenotypic changes in fibroblasts are often observed in chronic inflammatory lesions, and yet the autonomous pathogenic contribution of these changes is uncertain. The purpose of this study was to analyze the intrinsic ability of fibroblasts from chronically inflamed synovial tissue to drive cell recruitment and angiogenesis. Methods Fibroblasts from patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) or osteoarthritis (OA), as well as fibroblasts from healthy synovial tissue and healthy skin, were cultured and subcutaneously engrafted into immunodeficient mice. Cell infiltration and angiogenesis were analyzed in the grafts by immunohistochemical studies. The role of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), CXCL12, and hypoxia-inducible transcription factor 1, (HIF-1,) in these processes was investigated using specific antagonists or small interfering RNA (siRNA),mediated down-regulation of HIF-1, in fibroblasts. Results Inflammatory (OA and RA) synovial fibroblasts, compared with healthy dermal or synovial tissue fibroblasts, induced a significant enhancement in myeloid cell infiltration and angiogenesis in immunodeficient mice. These activities were associated with increased constitutive and hypoxia-induced expression of VEGF, but not CXCL12, in inflammatory fibroblasts compared with healthy fibroblasts. VEGF and CXCL12 antagonists significantly reduced myeloid cell infiltration and angiogenesis. Furthermore, targeting of HIF-1, expression by siRNA or of HIF-1, transcriptional activity by the small molecule chetomin in RA fibroblasts significantly reduced both responses. Conclusion These results demonstrate that chronic synovial inflammation is associated with stable fibroblast changes that, under hypoxic conditions, are sufficient to induce inflammatory cell recruitment and angiogenesis, both of which are processes relevant to the perpetuation of chronic inflammation. [source] Establishment of a matrix-associated transepithelial resistance invasion assay to precisely measure the invasive potential of synovial fibroblastsARTHRITIS & RHEUMATISM, Issue 9 2009Christina Wunrau Objective Synovial fibroblasts (SFs) contribute to several aspects of the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and have been implicated most prominently in the progressive destruction of articular cartilage. Targeting the invasive phenotype of RASFs has therefore gained increasing attention, but the precise measurement of their invasive capacity and the evaluation of potential treatment effects constitute a challenge that needs to be addressed. This study used a novel in vitro invasion assay based on the breakdown of transepithelial electrical resistance to determine the course of fibroblast invasion into extracellular matrix. Methods A matrix-associated transepithelial resistance invasion (MATRIN) assay was used to assess SFs from patients with RA in comparison with SFs from patients with osteoarthritis (OA). The SFs were grown on a commercially available collagen mix that was placed onto the upper side of a Transwell polycarbonate membrane. In addition, freshly isolated cartilage extracts were studied to assess the conditions in vivo. Under this membrane, a monolayer of MDCK-C7 cells was seeded to create a high electrical resistance. Results Invasion of fibroblasts into the matrix affected the integrity of the MDCK-C7 monolayer and led to a measurable decrease and subsequent breakdown of electrical resistance. Unlike in the assay with OASFs, which did not achieve a breakdown of resistance up to 72 hours, RASFs exhibited a pronounced invasiveness in this assay, with a 50% breakdown after 42 hours. Treatment of fibroblasts with either a matrix metalloproteinase inhibitor or antibodies against ,1 integrin significantly reduced the invasiveness of RASFs. Conclusion The MATRIN assay is a valuable and sensitive biologic assay system that can be used to determine precisely the invasive potential of RASFs in vitro, and thus would be suitable for screening anti-invasion compounds. [source] Induction of CCL13 expression in synovial fibroblasts highlights a significant role of oncostatin M in rheumatoid arthritisARTHRITIS & RHEUMATISM, Issue 7 2009Christoph Hintzen Objective To investigate the molecular mechanisms of CCL13/monocyte chemoattractant protein 4 (MCP-4) chemokine expression through proinflammatory cytokines in different primary human fibroblasts and the contribution of CCL13 to monocyte migration. Methods Using RNase protection assays and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, we quantified the expression of CCL13 compared with that of CCL2/MCP-1 in primary human fibroblasts. Boyden chamber assays were performed to determine the importance of CCL13 for migration of primary monocytes. Pharmacologic inhibitors as well as small interfering RNA knockdown approaches were used to investigate the signaling pathways regulating CCL13 expression. Results The interleukin-6 (IL-6),type cytokine oncostatin M (OSM) was a powerful inducer of CCL13 expression in primary synovial fibroblasts from patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) as well as those from healthy control subjects but not in other types of fibroblasts. Neither IL-6 nor tumor necrosis factor , could stimulate the expression of CCL13 in synovial fibroblasts; IL-1, was a very weak inducer. Synovial fibroblasts from patients with RA constitutively produced low amounts of CCL13, which was partially dependent on constitutive production of OSM. By investigating the underlying molecular mechanism, we identified STAT-5, ERK-1/2, and p38 as critical factors involved in OSM-dependent transcription and messenger RNA stabilization of CCL13. Conclusion In contrast to other prominent cytokines involved in the pathogenesis of RA, OSM can strongly up-regulate the expression of CCL13, a chemokine recently identified in the synovial fluid of patients with RA. Despite potent OSM-induced signal transduction in all types of fibroblasts analyzed, only synovial fibroblasts secreted CCL13, which might be indicative of tissue-specific imprinting of different fibroblasts during development. [source] Galectin 3 induces a distinctive pattern of cytokine and chemokine production in rheumatoid synovial fibroblasts via selective signaling pathwaysARTHRITIS & RHEUMATISM, Issue 6 2009Andrew Filer Objective High expression of galectin 3 at sites of joint destruction in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) suggests that galectin 3 plays a role in RA pathogenesis. Previous studies have demonstrated the effects of galectins on immune cells, such as lymphocytes and macrophages. This study was undertaken to investigate the hypothesis that galectin 3 induces proinflammatory effects in RA by modulating the pattern of cytokine and chemokine production in synovial fibroblasts. Methods Matched samples of RA synovial and skin fibroblasts were pretreated with galectin 3 or tumor necrosis factor , (TNF,), and the levels of a panel of cytokines, chemokines, and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) were determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays and multiplex assays. Specific inhibitors were used to dissect signaling pathways, which were confirmed by Western blotting and NF-,B activation assay. Results Galectin 3 induced secretion of interleukin-6 (IL-6), granulocyte,macrophage colony-stimulating factor, CXCL8, and MMP-3 in both synovial and skin fibroblasts. By contrast, galectin 3,induced secretion of TNF,, CCL2, CCL3, and CCL5 was significantly greater in synovial fibroblasts than in skin fibroblasts. TNF, blockade ruled out autocrine TNF,-stimulated induction of chemokines. The MAPKs p38, JNK, and ERK were necessary for IL-6 production, but phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI 3-kinase) was required for selective CCL5 induction. NF-,B activation was required for production of both IL-6 and CCL5. Conclusion Our findings indicate that galectin 3 promotes proinflammatory cytokine secretion by tissue fibroblasts. However, galectin 3 induces the production of mononuclear cell,recruiting chemokines uniquely from synovial fibroblasts, but not matched skin fibroblasts, via a PI 3-kinase signaling pathway. These data provide further evidence of the role of synovial fibroblasts in regulating the pattern and persistence of the inflammatory infiltrate in RA and suggest a new and important functional consequence of the observed high expression of galectin 3 in the rheumatoid synovium. [source] Down-regulation of myeloid cell leukemia 1 by epigallocatechin-3-gallate sensitizes rheumatoid arthritis synovial fibroblasts to tumor necrosis factor ,,induced apoptosisARTHRITIS & RHEUMATISM, Issue 5 2009Salahuddin Ahmed Objective Overexpression of the antiapoptotic protein myeloid cell leukemia 1 (Mcl-1) in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) synovial fibroblasts is a major cause of their resistance to tumor necrosis factor , (TNF,),induced apoptosis. This study was undertaken to evaluate the efficacy of epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) in down-regulating Mcl-1 expression and its mechanism of RA synovial fibroblast sensitization to TNF,-induced apoptosis. Methods EGCG effects on cultured RA synovial fibroblast cell morphology, proliferation, and viability over 72 hours were determined by microscopy and a fluorescent cell enumeration assay. Caspase 3 activity was determined by a colorimetric assay. Western blotting was used to evaluate the apoptosis mediators poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP), Mcl-1, Bcl-2, Akt, and nuclear translocation of NF-,B. Results In RA synovial fibroblasts, EGCG (5,50 ,M) inhibited constitutive and TNF,-induced Mcl-1 protein expression in a concentration- and time-dependent manner (P < 0.05). Importantly, EGCG specifically abrogated Mcl-1 expression in RA synovial fibroblasts and affected Mcl-1 expression to a lesser extent in osteoarthritis and normal synovial fibroblasts or endothelial cells. Inhibition of Mcl-1 by EGCG triggered caspase 3 activity in RA synovial fibroblasts, which was mediated via down-regulation of the TNF,-induced Akt and NF-,B pathways. Caspase 3 activation by EGCG also suppressed RA synovial fibroblast growth, and this effect was mimicked by Akt and NF-,B inhibitors. Interestingly, Mcl-1 degradation by EGCG sensitized RA synovial fibroblasts to TNF,-induced PARP cleavage and apoptotic cell death. Conclusion Our findings indicate that EGCG itself induces apoptosis and further sensitizes RA synovial fibroblasts to TNF,-induced apoptosis by specifically blocking Mcl-1 expression and, hence, may be of promising adjunct therapeutic value in regulating the invasive growth of synovial fibroblasts in RA. [source] Tumor necrosis factor ,,induced interleukin-32 is positively regulated via the Syk/protein kinase C,/JNK pathway in rheumatoid synovial fibroblastsARTHRITIS & RHEUMATISM, Issue 3 2009Se Hwan Mun Objective Interleukin-32 (IL-32) is a recently discovered cytokine that appears to play a critical role in human rheumatoid arthritis (RA). It is highly expressed in synovium and fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS) from RA patients, but not in patients with osteoarthritis (OA). This study was undertaken to assess IL-32 levels in RA synovial fluid (SF) and to investigate the secretion and regulation of IL-32 in RA FLS. Methods FLS and SF were obtained from the joints of RA patients. The secretion and expression of IL-32 and activation of signaling molecules were examined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, immunoblotting, immunoprecipitation, reverse transcriptase,polymerase chain reaction, and small interfering RNA (siRNA) transfection. Results IL-32 levels were high in RA SF compared with OA SF. Furthermore, RA FLS expressed and secreted IL-32 when stimulated with tumor necrosis factor , (TNF,). TNF,-induced expression of IL-32 was significantly suppressed, in a dose-dependent manner, by inhibitors of Syk, protein kinase C, (PKC,), and JNK and by knockdown of these kinases and c-Jun with siRNA. We also observed that PKC, mediated the activation of JNK and c-Jun, and experiments using specific inhibitors and siRNA demonstrated that Syk was the upstream kinase for the activation of PKC,. Conclusion The present findings suggest that IL-32 may be a newly identified prognostic biomarker in RA, thereby adding valuable knowledge to the understanding of this disease. The results also demonstrate that the production of IL-32 in RA FLS is regulated by Syk/PKC,-mediated signaling events. [source] Membrane type 1 matrix metalloproteinase is a crucial promoter of synovial invasion in human rheumatoid arthritisARTHRITIS & RHEUMATISM, Issue 3 2009Mary-Clare Miller Objective A hallmark of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is invasion of the synovial pannus into cartilage, and this process requires degradation of the collagen matrix. The aim of this study was to explore the role of one of the collagen-degrading matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), membrane type 1 MMP (MT1-MMP), in synovial pannus invasiveness. Methods The expression and localization of MT1-MMP in human RA pannus were investigated by Western blot analysis of primary synovial cells and immunohistochemical analysis of RA joint specimens. The functional role of MT1-MMP was analyzed by 3-dimensional (3-D) collagen invasion assays and a cartilage invasion assay in the presence or absence of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases 1 (TIMP-1), TIMP-2, or GM6001. The effect of adenoviral expression of a dominant-negative MT1-MMP construct lacking a catalytic domain was also examined. Results MT1-MMP was highly expressed at the pannus,cartilage junction in RA joints. Freshly isolated rheumatoid synovial tissue and isolated RA synovial fibroblasts invaded into a 3-D collagen matrix in an MT1-MMP,dependent manner. Invasion was blocked by TIMP-2 and GM6001 but not by TIMP-1. Invasion was also inhibited by the overexpression of a dominant-negative MT1-MMP, which inhibits collagenolytic activity and proMMP-2 activation by MT1-MMP on the cell surface. Synovial fibroblasts also invaded into cartilage in an MT1-MMP,dependent manner. This process was further enhanced by removing aggrecan from the cartilage matrix. Conclusion MT1-MMP serves as an essential collagen-degrading proteinase during pannus invasion in human RA. Specific inhibition of MT1-MMP,dependent invasion may represent a novel therapeutic strategy for RA. [source] Inhibition of interleukin-33 signaling attenuates the severity of experimental arthritisARTHRITIS & RHEUMATISM, Issue 3 2009Gaby Palmer Objective Interleukin-33 (IL-33; or, IL-1F11) was recently identified as the ligand of the IL-1 family receptor T1/ST2. The aim of this study was to examine IL-33 production in human and mouse joints and to investigate the role of IL-33 and T1/ST2 in experimental arthritis. Methods IL-33 expression was examined in human synovial tissue, rheumatoid arthritis (RA) synovial fibroblasts, and arthritic mouse joints. Mice with collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) were treated with blocking anti-ST2 antibody or control antibody beginning at the onset of disease. Arthritis severity was assessed by clinical and histologic scoring. Draining lymph node (LN) cell responses were examined ex vivo, and joint messenger RNA (mRNA) was used for expression profiling. Results IL-33 was highly expressed in human RA synovium. In cultured synovial fibroblasts, IL-33 expression was strongly induced by IL-1, and/or tumor necrosis factor ,. Furthermore, IL-33 mRNA was detected in the joints of mice with CIA and increased during the early phase of the disease. Administration of a blocking anti-ST2 antibody at the onset of disease attenuated the severity of CIA and reduced joint destruction. Anti-ST2 antibody treatment was associated with a marked decrease in interferon-, production as well as with a more limited reduction in IL-17 production by ex vivo,stimulated draining LN cells. Finally, RANKL mRNA levels in the joint were reduced by anti-ST2 treatment. Conclusion IL-33 is produced locally in inflamed joints, and neutralization of IL-33 signaling has a therapeutic effect on the course of arthritis. These observations suggest that locally produced IL-33 may contribute to the pathogenesis of joint inflammation and destruction. [source] | ||||||||||