TSG-6 supports fistulizing Crohn’s disease by a mechanoregulated activation of the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition
Ontology highlight
ABSTRACT: BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Perianal fistula represents one of the most important complications in Crohn’s Disease (CD). Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) has been demonstrated to play a major role in the pathogenesis, however the mechanisms driving EMT need to be clarified. Significant alterations in the tissue structural composition occur in the fistula, but how these changes promote EMT was not addressed. We aim to explore the relevance of TSG-6, a stabilizer of extracellular matrix, in the fistula pathogenesis. METHODS: Intestinal surgical specimens from perianal fistula tissue and surrounding region of fistulizing CD were analyzed histologically and by RNA sequencing (RNA-seq). Significantly modulated genes and TSG-6 expression were validated by RT-PCR, WB and immunofluorescence assays [N=20]. TSG-6 expression was reconstituted in Caco-2 cell line and primary perifistula-derived fibroblasts, and proliferative and migratory assays were performed. RESULTS: A marked different organization of extracellular matrix was found across fistula and perifistula regions with an increased expression of integrins, hyaluronan synthases, TSG-6 and MMPs in the fistula. TSG-6 overexpression in Caco-2 cells reduced proliferation, promoted the EMT transcription factor SNAIL, and, in co-stimulation with TGFβ1, migration. The acquisition of TSG-6 increased SNAI1 and hyaluronan synthases levels, and led to activated phenotype of perifistula-derived fibroblasts. Positive Pearson correlation was observed between TSG-6 expression and mechanosensitive proteins in fistula tissue. CONCLUSIONS: By mediating changes in the extracellular matrix organization, TSG-6 triggers the EMT transcription factor SNAIL through the activation of mechanosensitive proteins. These data point to TSG-6 as a new potential target for the treatment of perianal fistula.
ORGANISM(S): Homo sapiens
PROVIDER: GSE157020 | GEO | 2023/01/04
REPOSITORIES: GEO
ACCESS DATA