FOXM1 Modulation Alleviates Epithelial Remodeling and Inflammation in Eosinophilic Esophagitis

Background

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic allergic disease characterized by esophageal epithelial remodeling, barrier dysfunction, and inflammation. Despite histologic remission, molecular and structural changes in the epithelium persist, contributing to ongoing symptoms and relapse. The transcription factor FOXM1 has been shown to be a key regulator of epithelial proliferation and inflammation in allergic asthma.

Objective

To investigate the role of FOXM1 in epithelial disruption in EoE and to evaluate the therapeutic potential of FOXM1 inhibition.

Design

FOXM1 expression was analyzed in human esophageal biopsies, patient-derived organoids, and murine EoE models. IL-13 stimulation was used to model EoE in vitro. The effects of FOXM1 inhibition via the small molecule RCM-1 and siRNA-mediated knockdown were assessed by histology, gene expression profiling, organoid formation rates, and barrier integrity assays. RNA sequencing and chromatin immunoprecipitation were performed to elucidate molecular mechanisms.

Results

FOXM1 was significantly upregulated in patients with active EoE and localized to the basal epithelium. IL-13 increased FOXM1 expression, which impaired epithelial differentiation and enhanced basal cell hyperplasia. FOXM1 inhibition restored differentiation markers, reduced basal hyperplasia, and improved barrier function. In murine models, RCM-1 ameliorated epithelial changes and decreased eosinophil infiltration. Mechanistically, FOXM1 directly regulated cell cycle gene, CCNB1, which was upregulated in EoE and downregulated upon FOXM1 inhibition. FOXM1 expression was driven by an IL-13-PI3K/AKT axis.

Conclusion

FOXM1 plays a pivotal role in epithelial disruption in EoE by driving proliferation and impairing differentiation. Targeting FOXM1 restores epithelial homeostasis, mitigates inflammation, and offers a novel therapeutic approach for EoE.

Key Messages

What is already known on this topic: Eosinophilic esophagitis is marked by epithelial remodeling and barrier dysfunction driven by Th2 inflammation. Despite remission, molecular and histologic changes in the esophageal epithelium persist, contributing to symptoms and relapse. The mechanisms underlying this epithelial dysregulation remain poorly understood.

What this study adds: This study identifies FOXM1 as a key transcriptional regulator of epithelial disruption in EoE, demonstrating that FOXM1 inhibition restores epithelial differentiation, reduces basal cell hyperplasia, improves barrier integrity, and mitigates inflammation.

How this study might affect research, practice, or policy: Targeting FOXM1 offers a novel therapeutic strategy to restore epithelial homeostasis and reduce inflammation in EoE. This dual approach, addressing both epithelial and immune dysregulation, may guide future therapeutic development and improve patient outcomes.