Project description:Abundant high molecular weight hyaluronic acid (HMW-HA) contributes to cancer resistance and possibly longevity of the longest-lived rodent, the naked mole-rat1,2. To study whether the benefits of increased HMW-HA could be transferred to other animal species, we generated a transgenic mouse overexpressing naked mole-rat hyaluronic acid synthase 2 gene (nmrHAS2). nmrHAS2 mice showed increase in hyaluronan levels in several tissues, and lower incidence of spontaneous and induced cancer, extended lifespan and improved healthspan. The transcriptome signature of nmrHAS2 mice shifted towards that of longer-lived species. The most striking change observed in nmrHAS2 mice was attenuated inflammation across multiple tissues. HMW-HA reduced inflammation via several pathways including direct immunoregulatory effect on immune cells, protection from oxidative stress, and improved gut barrier function during aging. These findings demonstrate that the longevity mechanism that evolved in the naked mole-rat can be exploited to other species, and open new avenues for using HMW-HA to improve lifespan and healthspan.
Project description:Abundant high molecular weight hyaluronic acid (HMW-HA) contributes to cancer resistance and possibly longevity of the longest-lived rodent, the naked mole-rat1,2. To study whether the benefits of increased HMW-HA could be transferred to other animal species, we generated a transgenic mouse overexpressing naked mole-rat hyaluronic acid synthase 2 gene (nmrHAS2). nmrHAS2 mice showed increase in hyaluronan levels in several tissues, and lower incidence of spontaneous and induced cancer, extended lifespan and improved healthspan. The transcriptome signature of nmrHAS2 mice shifted towards that of longer-lived species. The most striking change observed in nmrHAS2 mice was attenuated inflammation across multiple tissues. HMW-HA reduced inflammation via several pathways including direct immunoregulatory effect on immune cells, protection from oxidative stress, and improved gut barrier function during aging. These findings demonstrate that the longevity mechanism that evolved in the naked mole-rat can be exploited to other species, and open new avenues for using HMW-HA to improve lifespan and healthspan
Project description:Abundant high molecular weight hyaluronic acid (HMW-HA) contributes to cancer resistance and possibly longevity of the longest-lived rodent, the naked mole-rat1,2. To study whether the benefits of increased HMW-HA could be transferred to other animal species, we generated a transgenic mouse overexpressing naked mole-rat hyaluronic acid synthase 2 gene (nmrHAS2). nmrHAS2 mice showed increase in hyaluronan levels in several tissues, and lower incidence of spontaneous and induced cancer, extended lifespan and improved healthspan. The transcriptome signature of nmrHAS2 mice shifted towards that of longer-lived species. The most striking change observed in nmrHAS2 mice was attenuated inflammation across multiple tissues. HMW-HA reduced inflammation via several pathways including direct immunoregulatory effect on immune cells, protection from oxidative stress, and improved gut barrier function during aging. These findings demonstrate that the longevity mechanism that evolved in the naked mole-rat can be exploited to other species, and open new avenues for using HMW-HA to improve lifespan and healthspan.
Project description:Background: HAS2 is a member of the gene family encoding hyaluronan synthase 2 (HAS2) which can generate high molecular weight hyaluronan (HMW-HA). Although we previously reported that HAS2 is a novel candidate gene for susceptibility to adult asthma., little is known about whether HAS2 dysfunction affect eosinophilic airway inflammation. Objective: We therefore hypothesized that attenuation of HAS2 will enhance eosinophilic airway inflammation. Methods: C57BL/6 wild type (WT) mice, Has2 heterozygous deficient (Has2+/−) mice were used in eosinophilic airway inflammation model which induced by ovalbumin (OVA). Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was performed to detect Has2 and HA binding protein mRNA expression levels. Lung tissue and lavage fluid (BALF) were analyzed for inflammation and various cytokines and chemokines. Airway resistance was measured using forced oscillation technique. gene expression analyses were also performed to elucidate further pathogenesis. Results: The expression levels of Has2 mRNA was significantly decreased in OVA stimulated Has2+/− (Has2+/−-OVA) mice. Has2+/−-OVA mice also displayed significant reduce of CD44, and TGF-beta1 mRNA expression. BALF eosinophil number, levels of various Th2 cytokines and chemokines in BALF, and airway responsiveness were significantly increased in Has2+/−-OVA mice compared with similarly treated WT mice. ILK Signaling and PKA signaling were downregulated significantly more in Has2+/−-OVA mice compared with similarly treated WT mice. Conclusions: Has2 dysfunction induce more intense allergic eosinophilic airway inflammation and increase of airway hyper responsiveness with impairment of HAS2-CD44-TGF-beta signaling. Modulating HAS2 signaling might provide novel therapeutic targets for intractable bronchial asthma patients.