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Issue published February 2, 2009 Previous issue | Next issue

  • Volume 119, Issue 2
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  • In this issue
  • Book Reviews
  • News
  • Obituary
  • Commentaries
  • Research Articles
  • Erratum
  • Corrigenda

On the cover: Probing pain pathways

Sensing and control of pain are mediated by neurons, both central and peripheral. Three articles in the current issue address various aspects of pain transmission and regulation. Vardeh and colleagues tease out peripheral and central roles for COX2 in mediating inflammatory, mechanical, and thermal pain sensitivity (page 287). Lim and colleagues report that the adipocytokine leptin is important in the response to nerve injury (page 295). Labuz and coworkers show that leukocytes produce opioids to control neuropathic pain (page 278).
Image credit: Photo Researchers Inc.
In this issue
In This Issue
/articles/view/38496
Published February 2, 2009
Citation Information: J Clin Invest. 2009;119(2):237-237. https://doi.org/10.1172/JCI38496.
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In This Issue

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Authors

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Book Reviews
Head cases: Stories of brain injury and its aftermath
Daniel A. Peterson
Daniel A. Peterson
Published February 2, 2009
Citation Information: J Clin Invest. 2009;119(2):241-241. https://doi.org/10.1172/JCI38340.
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Head cases: Stories of brain injury and its aftermath

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Authors

Daniel A. Peterson

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The animal research war
Amanda Carson Banks
Amanda Carson Banks
Published February 2, 2009
Citation Information: J Clin Invest. 2009;119(2):242-242. https://doi.org/10.1172/JCI38068.
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The animal research war

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Authors

Amanda Carson Banks

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News
Rocky Mountain Labs: NIAID’s Montana campus
Karen Honey
Karen Honey
Published February 2, 2009
Citation Information: J Clin Invest. 2009;119(2):240-240. https://doi.org/10.1172/JCI38528.
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Rocky Mountain Labs: NIAID’s Montana campus

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Karen Honey

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Obituary
A tribute to Franklin H. Epstein
John N. Forrest Jr.
John N. Forrest Jr.
Published February 2, 2009
Citation Information: J Clin Invest. 2009;119(2):238-239. https://doi.org/10.1172/JCI38469.
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A tribute to Franklin H. Epstein

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Authors

John N. Forrest Jr.

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Commentaries
Glucocorticoids and neonatal brain injury: the hedgehog connection
Alberto Gulino, … , Enrico De Smaele, Elisabetta Ferretti
Alberto Gulino, … , Enrico De Smaele, Elisabetta Ferretti
Published January 26, 2009
Citation Information: J Clin Invest. 2009;119(2):243-246. https://doi.org/10.1172/JCI38387.
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Glucocorticoids and neonatal brain injury: the hedgehog connection

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Glucocorticoids (GCs) play a critical role in neural development; however, their prenatal or neonatal therapeutic use can have detrimental effects on the developing brain. In this issue of the JCI, Heine and Rowitch report that the molecular mechanisms underlying these detrimental effects involve the sonic hedgehog (Shh) signaling pathway, a crucial regulator of brain development and neural stem/progenitor cells (see the related study beginning on page 267). They show that GCs suppress Shh-induced proliferation of cerebellar progenitor cells in postnatal mice and that, conversely, Shh signaling is protective against GC-induced neonatal cerebellar injury by inducing the enzyme 11βHSD2, which inactivates the GCs corticosterone and prednisolone, but not dexamethasone. The data provide a rationale for the therapeutic use of 11βHSD2-sensitive GCs, but not dexamethasone, or for the exploitation of the neuroprotective effect of Shh agonists to prevent GC-induced pre- or neonatal brain injury.

Authors

Alberto Gulino, Enrico De Smaele, Elisabetta Ferretti

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DAMPs ramp up drug toxicity
Jacquelyn J. Maher
Jacquelyn J. Maher
Published January 26, 2009
Citation Information: J Clin Invest. 2009;119(2):246-249. https://doi.org/10.1172/JCI38178.
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DAMPs ramp up drug toxicity

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The clinical syndrome of acetaminophen-induced liver injury represents the combined result of drug toxicity and a potent innate immune response that follows drug-induced cell death. In this issue of the JCI, Imaeda and colleagues report that DNA released from dying hepatocytes is a key stimulus of innate immune activation in the acetaminophen-treated mouse liver (see the related article beginning on page 305). They present evidence indicating that hepatocyte DNA promotes immune activation by acting as a danger-associated molecular pattern (DAMP) that stimulates cytokine production in neighboring sinusoidal endothelial cells via Tlr9 and the Nalp3 inflammasome.

Authors

Jacquelyn J. Maher

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Hoofbeats, zebras, and insights into insulin resistance
Robert A. Hegele, Karen Reue
Robert A. Hegele, Karen Reue
Published January 26, 2009
Citation Information: J Clin Invest. 2009;119(2):249-251. https://doi.org/10.1172/JCI38420.
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Hoofbeats, zebras, and insights into insulin resistance

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In this issue of the JCI, Semple and colleagues report phenotypic evaluation of patients with a germline mutation in the gene encoding serine/threonine kinase AKT2 (see the related article beginning on page 315). Their findings support the idea that the postreceptor actions of insulin in the liver — suppression of gluconeogenesis and stimulation of lipogenesis — are mediated through divergent pathways that can be uncoupled. The results appear to refine the arrangement of crucial steps along these pathways and show how comprehensive study of the phenotype, “deep phenotyping,” of patients who carry rare mutations might complement other types of experiments to elucidate complex pathways and mechanisms.

Authors

Robert A. Hegele, Karen Reue

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Research Articles
Ras- and PI3K-dependent breast tumorigenesis in mice and humans requires focal adhesion kinase signaling
Yuliya Pylayeva, … , Louis F. Reichardt, Filippo G. Giancotti
Yuliya Pylayeva, … , Louis F. Reichardt, Filippo G. Giancotti
Published January 19, 2009
Citation Information: J Clin Invest. 2009;119(2):252-266. https://doi.org/10.1172/JCI37160.
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Ras- and PI3K-dependent breast tumorigenesis in mice and humans requires focal adhesion kinase signaling

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Cancer cells require sustained oncogenic signaling in order to maintain their malignant properties. It is, however, unclear whether they possess other dependencies that can be exploited therapeutically. We report here that in a large fraction of human breast cancers, the gene encoding focal adhesion kinase (FAK), a core component of integrin signaling, was amplified and FAK mRNA was overexpressed. A mammary gland–specific deletion of Fak in mice did not seem to affect normal mammary epithelial cells, and these mice were protected from tumors initiated by the polyoma middle T oncoprotein (PyMT), which activates Ras and PI3K. FAK-deficient PyMT-transformed cells displayed both growth arrest and apoptosis, as well as diminished invasive and metastatic capacity. Upon silencing of Fak, mouse mammary tumor cells transformed by activated Ras became senescent and lost their invasive ability. Further, Neu-transformed cells also underwent growth arrest and apoptosis if integrin β4–dependent signaling was simultaneously inactivated. Human breast cancer cells carrying oncogenic mutations that activate Ras or PI3K signaling displayed similar responses upon silencing of FAK. Mechanistic studies indicated that FAK sustains tumorigenesis by promoting Src-mediated phosphorylation of p130Cas. These results suggest that FAK supports Ras- and PI3K-dependent mammary tumor initiation, maintenance, and progression to metastasis by orchestrating multiple core cellular functions, including proliferation, survival, and avoidance of senescence.

Authors

Yuliya Pylayeva, Kelly M. Gillen, William Gerald, Hilary E. Beggs, Louis F. Reichardt, Filippo G. Giancotti

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Hedgehog signaling has a protective effect in glucocorticoid-induced mouse neonatal brain injury through an 11βHSD2-dependent mechanism
Vivi M. Heine, David H. Rowitch
Vivi M. Heine, David H. Rowitch
Published January 26, 2009
Citation Information: J Clin Invest. 2009;119(2):267-277. https://doi.org/10.1172/JCI36376.
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Hedgehog signaling has a protective effect in glucocorticoid-induced mouse neonatal brain injury through an 11βHSD2-dependent mechanism

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Glucocorticoids (GCs) are administered to human fetuses at risk of premature delivery and to infants with life-threatening respiratory and cardiac conditions. However, there are ongoing concerns about adverse effects of GC treatment on the developing human brain, although the precise molecular mechanisms underlying GC-induced brain injury are unclear. Here, we identified what we believe to be novel cross-antagonistic interactions of Sonic hedgehog (Shh) and GC signaling in proliferating mouse cerebellar granule neuron precursors (CGNPs). Chronic GC treatment (from P0 through P7) in mouse pups inhibited Shh-induced proliferation and upregulation of expression of N-myc, Gli1, and D-type cyclin protein in CGNPs. Conversely, acute GC treatment (on P7 only) caused transient apoptosis. Shh signaling antagonized these effects of GCs, in part by induction of 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 (11βHSD2). Importantly, 11βHSD2 antagonized the effects of the GCs corticosterone, hydrocortisone, and prednisolone, but not the synthetic GC dexamethasone. Our findings indicate that Shh signaling is protective in the setting of GC-induced mouse neonatal brain injury. Furthermore, they led us to propose that 11βHSD2-sensitive GCs (e.g., hydrocortisone) should be used in preference to dexamethasone in neonatal human infants because of the potential for reduced neurotoxicity.

Authors

Vivi M. Heine, David H. Rowitch

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Immune cell–derived opioids protect against neuropathic pain in mice
Dominika Labuz, … , Shaaban A. Mousa, Halina Machelska
Dominika Labuz, … , Shaaban A. Mousa, Halina Machelska
Published January 12, 2009
Citation Information: J Clin Invest. 2009;119(2):278-286. https://doi.org/10.1172/JCI36246.
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Immune cell–derived opioids protect against neuropathic pain in mice

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The analgesic effects of leukocyte-derived opioids have been exclusively demonstrated for somatic inflammatory pain, for example, the pain associated with surgery and arthritis. Neuropathic pain results from injury to nerves, is often resistant to current treatments, and can seriously impair a patient’s quality of life. Although it has been recognized that neuronal damage can involve inflammation, it is generally assumed that immune cells act predominately as generators of neuropathic pain. However, in this study we have demonstrated that leukocytes containing opioids are essential regulators of pain in a mouse model of neuropathy. About 30%–40% of immune cells that accumulated at injured nerves expressed opioid peptides such as β-endorphin, Met-enkephalin, and dynorphin A. Selective stimulation of these cells by local application of corticotropin-releasing factor led to opioid peptide–mediated activation of opioid receptors in damaged nerves. This ultimately abolished tactile allodynia, a highly debilitating heightened response to normally innocuous mechanical stimuli, which is symptomatic of neuropathy. Our findings suggest that selective targeting of opioid-containing immune cells promotes endogenous pain control and offers novel opportunities for management of painful neuropathies.

Authors

Dominika Labuz, Yvonne Schmidt, Anja Schreiter, Heike L. Rittner, Shaaban A. Mousa, Halina Machelska

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COX2 in CNS neural cells mediates mechanical inflammatory pain hypersensitivity in mice
Daniel Vardeh, … , Garret A. FitzGerald, Tarek A. Samad
Daniel Vardeh, … , Garret A. FitzGerald, Tarek A. Samad
Published January 5, 2009
Citation Information: J Clin Invest. 2009;119(2):287-294. https://doi.org/10.1172/JCI37098.
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COX2 in CNS neural cells mediates mechanical inflammatory pain hypersensitivity in mice

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A cardinal feature of peripheral inflammation is pain. The most common way of managing inflammatory pain is to use nonsteroidal antiinflammatory agents (NSAIDs) that reduce prostanoid production, for example, selective inhibitors of COX2. Prostaglandins produced after induction of COX2 in immune cells in inflamed tissue contribute both to the inflammation itself and to pain hypersensitivity, acting on peripheral terminals of nociceptors. COX2 is also induced after peripheral inflammation in neurons in the CNS, where it aids in developing a central component of inflammatory pain hypersensitivity by increasing neuronal excitation and reducing inhibition. We engineered mice with conditional deletion of Cox2 in neurons and glial cells to determine the relative contribution of peripheral and central COX2 to inflammatory pain hypersensitivity. In these mice, basal nociceptive pain was unchanged, as was the extent of peripheral inflammation, inflammatory thermal pain hypersensitivity, and fever induced by lipopolysaccharide. By contrast, peripheral inflammation–induced COX2 expression in the spinal cord was reduced, and mechanical hypersensitivity after both peripheral soft tissue and periarticular inflammation was abolished. Mechanical pain is a major symptom of most inflammatory conditions, such as postoperative pain and arthritis, and induction of COX2 in neural cells in the CNS seems to contribute to this.

Authors

Daniel Vardeh, Dairong Wang, Michael Costigan, Michael Lazarus, Clifford B. Saper, Clifford J. Woolf, Garret A. FitzGerald, Tarek A. Samad

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Spinal leptin contributes to the pathogenesis of neuropathic pain in rodents
Grewo Lim, … , Yinghong Tian, Jianren Mao
Grewo Lim, … , Yinghong Tian, Jianren Mao
Published January 12, 2009
Citation Information: J Clin Invest. 2009;119(2):295-304. https://doi.org/10.1172/JCI36785.
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Spinal leptin contributes to the pathogenesis of neuropathic pain in rodents

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Pain after nerve injury, a phenomenon referred to as neuropathic pain, is a debilitating clinical condition, but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. As leptin, an adipocytokine produced mainly by nonneuronal tissue, has been implicated in the regulation of neuronal functions, we examined the role of leptin in neuropathic pain using a rat model of the condition chronic constriction sciatic nerve injury (CCI). We report that leptin critically contributed to pain behaviors following CCI. Specifically, spinal administration of a leptin antagonist prevented and reversed neuropathic pain behaviors in rats. Further examination revealed that levels of both leptin and the long form of the leptin receptor (Ob-Rb) were substantially increased within the ipsilateral spinal cord dorsal horn after peripheral nerve injury. Mechanistic studies showed that leptin upregulated the expression of both the spinal NMDA receptor and IL-1β through the JAK/STAT pathway. Furthermore, these CCI-induced behavioral and cellular responses were diminished in leptin-deficient mice and mimicked by spinal administration of exogenous leptin in naive rats. Our findings reveal a critical role for spinal leptin in the pathogenesis of neuropathic pain and suggest what we believe to be a novel form of nonneuronal and neuronal interactions in the mechanisms of pathological pain.

Authors

Grewo Lim, Shuxing Wang, Yi Zhang, Yinghong Tian, Jianren Mao

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Acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity in mice is dependent on Tlr9 and the Nalp3 inflammasome
Avlin B. Imaeda, … , Richard A. Flavell, Wajahat Z. Mehal
Avlin B. Imaeda, … , Richard A. Flavell, Wajahat Z. Mehal
Published January 26, 2009
Citation Information: J Clin Invest. 2009;119(2):305-314. https://doi.org/10.1172/JCI35958.
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Acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity in mice is dependent on Tlr9 and the Nalp3 inflammasome

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Hepatocyte death results in a sterile inflammatory response that amplifies the initial insult and increases overall tissue injury. One important example of this type of injury is acetaminophen-induced liver injury, in which the initial toxic injury is followed by innate immune activation. Using mice deficient in Tlr9 and the inflammasome components Nalp3 (NACHT, LRR, and pyrin domain–containing protein 3), ASC (apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a CARD), and caspase-1, we have identified a nonredundant role for Tlr9 and the Nalp3 inflammasome in acetaminophen-induced liver injury. We have shown that acetaminophen treatment results in hepatocyte death and that free DNA released from apoptotic hepatocytes activates Tlr9. This triggers a signaling cascade that increases transcription of the genes encoding pro–IL-1β and pro–IL-18 in sinusoidal endothelial cells. By activating caspase-1, the enzyme responsible for generating mature IL-1β and IL-18 from pro–IL-1β and pro–IL-18, respectively, the Nalp3 inflammasome plays a crucial role in the second step of proinflammatory cytokine activation following acetaminophen-induced liver injury. Tlr9 antagonists and aspirin reduced mortality from acetaminophen hepatotoxicity. The protective effect of aspirin on acetaminophen-induced liver injury was due to downregulation of proinflammatory cytokines, rather than inhibition of platelet degranulation or COX-1 inhibition. In summary, we have identified a 2-signal requirement (Tlr9 and the Nalp3 inflammasome) for acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity and some potential therapeutic approaches.

Authors

Avlin B. Imaeda, Azuma Watanabe, Muhammad A. Sohail, Shamail Mahmood, Mehdi Mohamadnejad, Fayyaz S. Sutterwala, Richard A. Flavell, Wajahat Z. Mehal

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Postreceptor insulin resistance contributes to human dyslipidemia and hepatic steatosis
Robert K. Semple, … , Stephen O’Rahilly, David B. Savage
Robert K. Semple, … , Stephen O’Rahilly, David B. Savage
Published January 26, 2009
Citation Information: J Clin Invest. 2009;119(2):315-322. https://doi.org/10.1172/JCI37432.
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Postreceptor insulin resistance contributes to human dyslipidemia and hepatic steatosis

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Metabolic dyslipidemia is characterized by high circulating triglyceride (TG) and low HDL cholesterol levels and is frequently accompanied by hepatic steatosis. Increased hepatic lipogenesis contributes to both of these problems. Because insulin fails to suppress gluconeogenesis but continues to stimulate lipogenesis in both obese and lipodystrophic insulin-resistant mice, it has been proposed that a selective postreceptor defect in hepatic insulin action is central to the pathogenesis of fatty liver and hypertriglyceridemia in these mice. Here we show that humans with generalized insulin resistance caused by either mutations in the insulin receptor gene or inhibitory antibodies specific for the insulin receptor uniformly exhibited low serum TG and normal HDL cholesterol levels. This was due at least in part to surprisingly low rates of de novo lipogenesis and was associated with low liver fat content and the production of TG-depleted VLDL cholesterol particles. In contrast, humans with a selective postreceptor defect in AKT2 manifest increased lipogenesis, elevated liver fat content, TG-enriched VLDL, hypertriglyceridemia, and low HDL cholesterol levels. People with lipodystrophy, a disorder characterized by particularly severe insulin resistance and dyslipidemia, demonstrated similar abnormalities. Collectively these data from humans with molecularly characterized forms of insulin resistance suggest that partial postreceptor hepatic insulin resistance is a key element in the development of metabolic dyslipidemia and hepatic steatosis.

Authors

Robert K. Semple, Alison Sleigh, Peter R. Murgatroyd, Claire A. Adams, Les Bluck, Sarah Jackson, Alessandra Vottero, Dipak Kanabar, Valentine Charlton-Menys, Paul Durrington, Maria A. Soos, T. Adrian Carpenter, David J. Lomas, Elaine K. Cochran, Phillip Gorden, Stephen O’Rahilly, David B. Savage

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Maternal high-fat diet triggers lipotoxicity in the fetal livers of nonhuman primates
Carrie E. McCurdy, … , Jacob E. Friedman, Kevin L. Grove
Carrie E. McCurdy, … , Jacob E. Friedman, Kevin L. Grove
Published January 19, 2009
Citation Information: J Clin Invest. 2009;119(2):323-335. https://doi.org/10.1172/JCI32661.
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Maternal high-fat diet triggers lipotoxicity in the fetal livers of nonhuman primates

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Maternal obesity is thought to increase the offspring’s risk of juvenile obesity and metabolic diseases; however, the mechanism(s) whereby excess maternal nutrition affects fetal development remain poorly understood. Here, we investigated in nonhuman primates the effect of chronic high-fat diet (HFD) on the development of fetal metabolic systems. We found that fetal offspring from both lean and obese mothers chronically consuming a HFD had a 3-fold increase in liver triglycerides (TGs). In addition, fetal offspring from HFD-fed mothers (O-HFD) showed increased evidence of hepatic oxidative stress early in the third trimester, consistent with the development of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). O-HFD animals also exhibited elevated hepatic expression of gluconeogenic enzymes and transcription factors. Furthermore, fetal glycerol levels were 2-fold higher in O-HFD animals than in control fetal offspring and correlated with maternal levels. The increased fetal hepatic TG levels persisted at P180, concurrent with a 2-fold increase in percent body fat. Importantly, reversing the maternal HFD to a low-fat diet during a subsequent pregnancy improved fetal hepatic TG levels and partially normalized gluconeogenic enzyme expression, without changing maternal body weight. These results suggest that a developing fetus is highly vulnerable to excess lipids, independent of maternal diabetes and/or obesity, and that exposure to this may increase the risk of pediatric NAFLD.

Authors

Carrie E. McCurdy, Jacalyn M. Bishop, Sarah M. Williams, Bernadette E. Grayson, M. Susan Smith, Jacob E. Friedman, Kevin L. Grove

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Identification of a bone marrow–derived epithelial-like population capable of repopulating injured mouse airway epithelium
Amy P. Wong, … , Jim Hu, Thomas K. Waddell
Amy P. Wong, … , Jim Hu, Thomas K. Waddell
Published January 26, 2009
Citation Information: J Clin Invest. 2009;119(2):336-348. https://doi.org/10.1172/JCI36882.
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Identification of a bone marrow–derived epithelial-like population capable of repopulating injured mouse airway epithelium

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The bone marrow compartment is enriched in stem and progenitor cells, and an unidentified subpopulation of these cells can contribute to lung epithelial repair. Here we identify this subpopulation and quantitate its relative contribution to injured airway epithelium. A subpopulation of adherent human and murine bone marrow cells that expresses Clara cell secretory protein (CCSP) was identified using flow cytometry. When cultured at the air-liquid interface in ex vivo cultures, Ccsp+ cells expressed type I and type II alveolar markers as well as basal cell markers and active epithelial sodium channels. Ccsp+ cells preferentially homed to naphthalene-damaged airways when delivered transtracheally or intravenously, with the former being more efficient than the latter. Interestingly, naphthalene-induced lung damage transiently increased Ccsp expression in bone marrow and peripheral circulation. Furthermore, lethally irradiated Ccsp-null mice that received tagged wild-type bone marrow contained donor-derived epithelium in both normal and naphthalene-damaged airways. This study therefore identifies what we believe to be a newly discovered cell in the bone marrow that might have airway reconstitution potential in the context of cell-based therapies for lung disease. Additionally, these data could reconcile previous controversies regarding the contribution of bone marrow to lung regeneration.

Authors

Amy P. Wong, Armand Keating, Wei-Yang Lu, Pascal Duchesneau, Xinghua Wang, Adrian Sacher, Jim Hu, Thomas K. Waddell

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Human four-and-a-half LIM family members suppress tumor cell growth through a TGF-β–like signaling pathway
Lihua Ding, … , Cuifen Huang, Qinong Ye
Lihua Ding, … , Cuifen Huang, Qinong Ye
Published January 12, 2009
Citation Information: J Clin Invest. 2009;119(2):349-361. https://doi.org/10.1172/JCI35930.
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Human four-and-a-half LIM family members suppress tumor cell growth through a TGF-β–like signaling pathway

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The four-and-a-half LIM (FHL) proteins belong to a family of LIM-only proteins that regulate cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. The exact functions of each FHL protein in cancer development and progression remain unknown. Here we report that FHL1, FHL2, and FHL3 physically and functionally interact with Smad2, Smad3, and Smad4, important regulators of cancer development and progression, in a TGF-β–independent manner. Casein kinase 1δ, but not the TGF-β receptor, was required for the FHL-mediated TGF-β–like responses, including increased phosphorylation of Smad2/3, interaction of Smad2/3 and Smad4, nuclear accumulation of Smad proteins, activation of the tumor suppressor gene p21, and repression of the oncogene c-myc. FHL1–3 inhibited anchorage-dependent and -independent growth of a human hepatoma cell line in vitro and tumor formation in nude mice. Further analysis of clinical samples revealed that FHL proteins are often downregulated in hepatocellular carcinomas and that this correlates with decreased TGF-β–like responses. By establishing a link between FHL proteins and Smad proteins, this study identifies what we believe to be a novel TGF-β–like signaling pathway and indicates that FHL proteins may be useful molecular targets for cancer therapy.

Authors

Lihua Ding, Zhaoyun Wang, Jinghua Yan, Xiao Yang, Aijun Liu, Weiyi Qiu, Jianhua Zhu, Juqiang Han, Hao Zhang, Jing Lin, Long Cheng, Xi Qin, Chang Niu, Bin Yuan, Xiaohui Wang, Cui Zhu, Yan Zhou, Jiezhi Li, Haifeng Song, Cuifen Huang, Qinong Ye

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PIM-1–specific mAb suppresses human and mouse tumor growth by decreasing PIM-1 levels, reducing Akt phosphorylation, and activating apoptosis
Xiu Feng Hu, … , Nancy S. Magnuson, Pei Xiang Xing
Xiu Feng Hu, … , Nancy S. Magnuson, Pei Xiang Xing
Published January 19, 2009
Citation Information: J Clin Invest. 2009;119(2):362-375. https://doi.org/10.1172/JCI33216.
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PIM-1–specific mAb suppresses human and mouse tumor growth by decreasing PIM-1 levels, reducing Akt phosphorylation, and activating apoptosis

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Provirus integration site for Moloney murine leukemia virus (PIM1) is a proto-oncogene that encodes a serine/threonine kinase with multiple cellular functions. Overexpression of PIM-1 plays a critical role in progression of prostatic and hematopoietic malignancies. Here we describe the generation of a mAb specific for GST–PIM-1, which reacted strongly with most human and mouse cancer tissues and cell lines of prostate, breast, and colon origin but only weakly (if at all) with normal tissues. The mAb binds to PIM-1 in the cytosol and nucleus as well as to PIM-1 on the surface of human and murine cancer cells. Treatment of human and mouse prostate cancer cell lines with the PIM-1–specific mAb resulted in disruption of PIM-1/Hsp90 complexes, decreased PIM-1 and Hsp90 levels, reduced Akt phosphorylation at Ser473, reduced phosphorylation of Bad at Ser112 and Ser136, and increased cleavage of caspase-9, an indicator of activation of the mitochondrial cell death pathway. The mAb induced cancer cell apoptosis and synergistically enhanced antitumor activity when used in combination with cisplatin and epirubicin. In tumor models, the PIM-1–specific mAb substantially inhibited growth of the human prostate cancer cell line DU145 in SCID mice and the mouse prostate cancer cell TRAMP-C1 in C57BL/6 mice. These findings are important because they provide what we believe to be the first in vivo evidence that treatment of prostate cancer may be possible by targeting PIM-1 using an Ab-based therapy.

Authors

Xiu Feng Hu, Jie Li, Scott Vandervalk, Zeping Wang, Nancy S. Magnuson, Pei Xiang Xing

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Loss of viral fitness and cross-recognition by CD8+ T cells limit HCV escape from a protective HLA-B27–restricted human immune response
Eva Dazert, … , Ralf Bartenschlager, Robert Thimme
Eva Dazert, … , Ralf Bartenschlager, Robert Thimme
Published January 12, 2009
Citation Information: J Clin Invest. 2009;119(2):376-386. https://doi.org/10.1172/JCI36587.
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Loss of viral fitness and cross-recognition by CD8+ T cells limit HCV escape from a protective HLA-B27–restricted human immune response

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There is an association between expression of the MHC class I molecule HLA-B27 and protection following human infection with either HIV or HCV. In both cases, protection has been linked to HLA-B27 presentation of a single immunodominant viral peptide epitope to CD8+ T cells. If HIV mutates the HLA-B27–binding anchor of this epitope to escape the protective immune response, the result is a less-fit virus that requires additional compensatory clustered mutations. Here, we sought to determine whether the immunodominant HLA-B27–restricted HCV epitope was similarly constrained by analyzing the replication competence and immunogenicity of different escape mutants. Interestingly, in most HLA-B27–positive patients chronically infected with HCV, the escape mutations spared the HLA-B27–binding anchor. Instead, the escape mutations were clustered at other sites within the epitope and had only a modest impact on replication competence. Further analysis revealed that the cluster of mutations is required for efficient escape because a combination of mutations is needed to impair T cell recognition of the epitope. Artificially introduced mutations at the HLA-B27–binding anchors were found to be either completely cross-reactive or to lead to substantial loss of fitness. These results suggest that protection by HLA-B27 in HCV infection can be explained by the requirement to accumulate a cluster of mutations within the immunodominant epitope to escape T cell recognition.

Authors

Eva Dazert, Christoph Neumann-Haefelin, Stéphane Bressanelli, Karen Fitzmaurice, Julia Kort, Jörg Timm, Susan McKiernan, Dermot Kelleher, Norbert Gruener, John E. Tavis, Hugo R. Rosen, Jaqueline Shaw, Paul Bowness, Hubert E. Blum, Paul Klenerman, Ralf Bartenschlager, Robert Thimme

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Ligation of TLR9 induced on human IL-10–secreting Tregs by 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 abrogates regulatory function
Zoë Urry, … , Zarin Brown, Catherine M. Hawrylowicz
Zoë Urry, … , Zarin Brown, Catherine M. Hawrylowicz
Published January 12, 2009
Citation Information: J Clin Invest. 2009;119(2):387-398. https://doi.org/10.1172/JCI32354.
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Ligation of TLR9 induced on human IL-10–secreting Tregs by 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 abrogates regulatory function

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Abstract

Signaling through the TLR family of molecular pattern recognition receptors has been implicated in the induction of innate and adaptive immune responses. A role for TLR signaling in the maintenance and/or regulation of Treg function has been proposed, however its functional relevance remains unclear. Here we have shown that TLR9 is highly expressed by human Treg secreting the antiinflammatory cytokine IL-10 induced following stimulation of blood and tissue CD3+ T cells in the presence of 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1α25VitD3), the active form of Vitamin D, with or without the glucocorticoid dexamethasone. By contrast, TLR9 was not highly expressed by naturally occurring CD4+CD25+ Treg or by Th1 and Th2 effector cells. Induction of TLR9, but not other TLRs, was IL-10 dependent and primarily regulated by 1α25VitD3 in vitro. Furthermore, ingestion of calcitriol (1α25VitD3) by human volunteers led to an increase of both IL-10 and TLR9 expression by CD3+CD4+ T cells analyzed directly ex vivo. Stimulation of 1α25VitD3-induced IL-10–secreting Treg with TLR9 agonists, CpG oligonucleotides, resulted in decreased IL-10 and IFN-γ synthesis and a concurrent loss of regulatory function, but, unexpectedly, increased IL-4 synthesis. We therefore suggest that TLR9 could be used to monitor and potentially modulate the function of 1α25VitD3-induced IL-10–secreting Treg in vivo, and that this has implications in cancer therapy and vaccine design.

Authors

Zoë Urry, Emmanuel Xystrakis, David F. Richards, Joanne McDonald, Zahid Sattar, David J. Cousins, Christopher J. Corrigan, Emma Hickman, Zarin Brown, Catherine M. Hawrylowicz

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PKCα regulates platelet granule secretion and thrombus formation in mice
Olga Konopatskaya, … , Johan W.M. Heemskerk, Alastair W. Poole
Olga Konopatskaya, … , Johan W.M. Heemskerk, Alastair W. Poole
Published January 19, 2009
Citation Information: J Clin Invest. 2009;119(2):399-407. https://doi.org/10.1172/JCI34665.
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PKCα regulates platelet granule secretion and thrombus formation in mice

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Abstract

Platelets are central players in atherothrombosis development in coronary artery disease. The PKC family provides important intracellular mechanisms for regulating platelet activity, and platelets express several members of this family, including the classical isoforms PKCα and PKCβ and novel isoforms PKCδ and PKCθ. Here, we used a genetic approach to definitively demonstrate the role played by PKCα in regulating thrombus formation and platelet function. Thrombus formation in vivo was attenuated in Prkca–/– mice, and PKCα was required for thrombus formation in vitro, although this PKC isoform did not regulate platelet adhesion to collagen. The ablation of in vitro thrombus formation in Prkca–/– platelets was rescued by the addition of ADP, consistent with the key mechanistic finding that dense-granule biogenesis and secretion depend upon PKCα expression. Furthermore, defective platelet aggregation in response to either collagen-related peptide or thrombin could be overcome by an increase in agonist concentration. Evidence of overt bleeding, including gastrointestinal and tail bleeding, was not seen in Prkca–/– mice. In summary, the effects of PKCα ablation on thrombus formation and granule secretion may implicate PKCα as a drug target for antithrombotic therapy.

Authors

Olga Konopatskaya, Karen Gilio, Matthew T. Harper, Yan Zhao, Judith M.E.M. Cosemans, Zubair A. Karim, Sidney W. Whiteheart, Jeffery D. Molkentin, Paul Verkade, Steve P. Watson, Johan W.M. Heemskerk, Alastair W. Poole

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Regulator of G protein signaling 2 mediates cardiac compensation to pressure overload and antihypertrophic effects of PDE5 inhibition in mice
Eiki Takimoto, … , Michael E. Mendelsohn, David A. Kass
Eiki Takimoto, … , Michael E. Mendelsohn, David A. Kass
Published January 5, 2009
Citation Information: J Clin Invest. 2009;119(2):408-420. https://doi.org/10.1172/JCI35620.
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Regulator of G protein signaling 2 mediates cardiac compensation to pressure overload and antihypertrophic effects of PDE5 inhibition in mice

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Abstract

The heart initially compensates for hypertension-mediated pressure overload by enhancing its contractile force and developing hypertrophy without dilation. Gq protein–coupled receptor pathways become activated and can depress function, leading to cardiac failure. Initial adaptation mechanisms to reduce cardiac damage during such stimulation remain largely unknown. Here we have shown that this initial adaptation requires regulator of G protein signaling 2 (RGS2). Mice lacking RGS2 had a normal basal cardiac phenotype, yet responded rapidly to pressure overload, with increased myocardial Gq signaling, marked cardiac hypertrophy and failure, and early mortality. Swimming exercise, which is not accompanied by Gq activation, induced a normal cardiac response, while Rgs2 deletion in Gαq-overexpressing hearts exacerbated hypertrophy and dilation. In vascular smooth muscle, RGS2 is activated by cGMP-dependent protein kinase (PKG), suppressing Gq-stimulated vascular contraction. In normal mice, but not Rgs2–/– mice, PKG activation by the chronic inhibition of cGMP-selective phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) suppressed maladaptive cardiac hypertrophy, inhibiting Gq-coupled stimuli. Importantly, PKG was similarly activated by PDE5 inhibition in myocardium from both genotypes, but PKG plasma membrane translocation was more transient in Rgs2–/– myocytes than in controls and was unaffected by PDE5 inhibition. Thus, RGS2 is required for early myocardial compensation to pressure overload and mediates the initial antihypertrophic and cardioprotective effects of PDE5 inhibitors.

Authors

Eiki Takimoto, Norimichi Koitabashi, Steven Hsu, Elizabeth A. Ketner, Manling Zhang, Takahiro Nagayama, Djahida Bedja, Kathleen L. Gabrielson, Robert Blanton, David P. Siderovski, Michael E. Mendelsohn, David A. Kass

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Erratum
Endogenous prolactin-releasing peptide regulates food intake in rodents
Yuki Takayanagi, … , Gareth Leng, Tatsushi Onaka
Yuki Takayanagi, … , Gareth Leng, Tatsushi Onaka
Published February 2, 2009
Citation Information: J Clin Invest. 2009;119(2):422-422. https://doi.org/10.1172/JCI34682E1.
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Endogenous prolactin-releasing peptide regulates food intake in rodents

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Abstract

Authors

Yuki Takayanagi, Hirokazu Matsumoto, Masanori Nakata, Takashi Mera, Shoji Fukusumi, Shuji Hinuma, Yoichi Ueta, Toshihiko Yada, Gareth Leng, Tatsushi Onaka

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Corrigenda
Targeting tumor-associated fibroblasts improves cancer chemotherapy by increasing intratumoral drug uptake
Markus Loeffler, … , Andreas G. Niethammer, Ralph A. Reisfeld
Markus Loeffler, … , Andreas G. Niethammer, Ralph A. Reisfeld
Published February 2, 2009
Citation Information: J Clin Invest. 2009;119(2):421-421. https://doi.org/10.1172/JCI26532C1.
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Targeting tumor-associated fibroblasts improves cancer chemotherapy by increasing intratumoral drug uptake

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Authors

Markus Loeffler, Jörg A. Krüger, Andreas G. Niethammer, Ralph A. Reisfeld

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Loss of PIP5KIγ, unlike other PIP5KI isoforms, impairs the integrity of the membrane cytoskeleton in murine megakaryocytes
Yanfeng Wang, … , John Hartwig, Charles S. Abrams
Yanfeng Wang, … , John Hartwig, Charles S. Abrams
Published January 10, 2008
Citation Information: J Clin Invest. 2009;119(2):421-421. https://doi.org/10.1172/JCI34239C1.
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Loss of PIP5KIγ, unlike other PIP5KI isoforms, impairs the integrity of the membrane cytoskeleton in murine megakaryocytes

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Authors

Yanfeng Wang, Rustem I. Litvinov, Xinsheng Chen, Tami L. Bach, Lurong Lian, Brian G. Petrich, Susan J. Monkley, Yasunori Kanaho, David R. Critchley, Takehiko Sasaki, Morris J. Birnbaum, John W. Weisel, John Hartwig, Charles S. Abrams

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Endocrine functions of bone in mineral metabolism regulation
L. Darryl Quarles
L. Darryl Quarles
Published February 2, 2009
Citation Information: J Clin Invest. 2009;119(2):421-421. https://doi.org/10.1172/JCI36479C1.
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Endocrine functions of bone in mineral metabolism regulation

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Authors

L. Darryl Quarles

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