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Vargas-Pozada EE, Ramos-Tovar E, Muriel P. The importance of fundamental pharmacology in fighting liver diseases. Ann Hepatol 2024; 29:101286. [PMID: 38266675 DOI: 10.1016/j.aohep.2024.101286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo E Vargas-Pozada
- Eduardo Enrique Vargas-Pozada, Pablo Muriel, Laboratory of Experimental Hepatology, Department of Pharmacology, Cinvestav-IPN, Apartado 14-740 Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Erika Ramos-Tovar
- Erika Ramos-Tovar, Sección de Estudios de Posgrado e Investigación, Escuela Superior de Medicina-IPN, Apartado Postal 11340, Plan de San Luis y Díaz Mirón s/n, Casco de Santo Tomás, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Pablo Muriel
- Eduardo Enrique Vargas-Pozada, Pablo Muriel, Laboratory of Experimental Hepatology, Department of Pharmacology, Cinvestav-IPN, Apartado 14-740 Mexico City, Mexico.
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Shakour N, Karami S, Iranshahi M, Butler AE, Sahebkar A. Antifibrotic effects of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors: A comprehensive review. Diabetes Metab Syndr 2024; 18:102934. [PMID: 38154403 DOI: 10.1016/j.dsx.2023.102934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Scar tissue accumulation in organs is the underlying cause of many fibrotic diseases. Due to the extensive array of organs affected, the long-term nature of fibrotic processes and the large number of people who suffer from the negative impact of these diseases, they constitute a serious health problem for modern medicine and a huge economic burden on society. Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) are a relatively new class of anti-diabetic pharmaceuticals that offer additional benefits over and above their glucose-lowering properties; these medications modulate a variety of diseases, including fibrosis. Herein, we have collated and analyzed all available research on SGLT2is and their effects on organ fibrosis, together with providing a proposed explanation as to the underlying mechanisms. METHODS PubMed, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar and Scopus were searched spanning the period from 2012 until April 2023 to find relevant articles describing the antifibrotic effects of SGLT2is. RESULTS The majority of reports have shown that SGLT2is are protective against lung, liver, heart and kidney fibrosis as well as arterial stiffness. According to the results of clinical trials and animal studies, many SGLT2 inhibitors are promising candidates for the treatment of fibrosis. Recent studies have demonstrated that SGLT2is affect an array of cellular processes, including hypoxia, inflammation, oxidative stress, the renin-angiotensin system and metabolic activities, all of which have been linked to fibrosis. CONCLUSION Extensive evidence indicates that SGLT2is are promising treatments for fibrosis, demonstrating protective effects in various organs and influencing key cellular processes linked to fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neda Shakour
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Shima Karami
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mehrdad Iranshahi
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Alexandra E Butler
- Research Department, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Adliya, Bahrain
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
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Liao YJ, Lee CY, Twu YC, Suk FM, Lai TC, Chang YC, Lai YC, Yuan JW, Jhuang HM, Jian HR, Huang LC, Chen KP, Hsu MH. Isolation and Biological Evaluation of Alfa-Mangostin as Potential Therapeutic Agents against Liver Fibrosis. Bioengineering (Basel) 2023; 10:1075. [PMID: 37760177 PMCID: PMC10526009 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering10091075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The increased proliferation and activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are associated with liver fibrosis development. To date, there are no FDA-approved drugs for the treatment of liver cirrhosis. Augmentation of HSCs apoptosis is one of the resolutions for liver fibrosis. In this study, we extracted α-mangostin (1,3,6-trihydroxy-7-methoxy-2,8-bis(3-methyl-2-butenyl)-9H-xanthen-9-one) from the fruit waste components of mangosteen pericarp. The isolated α-mangostin structure was determined and characterized with nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) and compared with those known compounds. The intracellular signaling pathway activities of α-mangostin on Transforming growth factors-beta 1 (TGF-β1) or Platelet-derived growth factor subunit B (PDGF-BB) induced HSCs activation and were analyzed via Western blot and Real-time Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (Q-PCR). α-Mangostin-induced mitochondrial dysfunction and apoptosis in HSCs were measured by seahorse assay and caspase-dependent cleavage. The in vivo anti-fibrotic effect of α-mangostin was assessed by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) treatment mouse model. The data showed that α-mangostin treatment inhibited TGF-β1-induced Smad2/3 phosphorylation and alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) expression in HSCs in a dose-dependent manner. Regarding the PDGF-BB-induced HSCs proliferation signaling pathways, α-mangostin pretreatment suppressed the phosphorylation of extracellular-signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and p38. The activation of caspase-dependent apoptosis and dysfunction of mitochondrial respiration (such as oxygen consumption rate, ATP production, and maximal respiratory capacity) were observed in α-mangostin-treated HSCs. The CCl4-induced liver fibrosis mouse model showed that the administration of α-mangostin significantly decreased the expression of the fibrosis markers (α-SMA, collagen-a2 (col1a2), desmin and matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2)) as well as attenuated hepatic collagen deposition and liver damage. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that α-mangostin attenuates the progression of liver fibrosis through inhibiting the proliferation of HSCs and triggering apoptosis signals. Thus, α-mangostin may be used as a potential novel therapeutic agent against liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Jen Liao
- School of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan; (Y.-J.L.)
| | - Chun-Ya Lee
- School of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan; (Y.-J.L.)
| | - Yuh-Ching Twu
- Department of Biotechnology and Laboratory Science in Medicine, School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112, Taiwan
| | - Fat-Moon Suk
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Wan Fang Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 116, Taiwan
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
| | - Tzu-Chieh Lai
- Department of Chemistry, National Changhua University of Education, Changhua 500, Taiwan
| | - Ya-Ching Chang
- Department of Chemistry, National Changhua University of Education, Changhua 500, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Cheng Lai
- Department of Chemistry, National Changhua University of Education, Changhua 500, Taiwan
| | - Jing-Wei Yuan
- Department of Chemistry, National Changhua University of Education, Changhua 500, Taiwan
| | - Hong-Ming Jhuang
- Department of Chemistry, National Changhua University of Education, Changhua 500, Taiwan
| | - Huei-Ruei Jian
- Department of Chemistry, National Changhua University of Education, Changhua 500, Taiwan
| | - Li-Chia Huang
- Department of Chemistry, National Changhua University of Education, Changhua 500, Taiwan
| | - Kuang-Po Chen
- Department of Chemistry, Chinese Culture University, Taipei 111, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Hua Hsu
- Department of Chemistry, National Changhua University of Education, Changhua 500, Taiwan
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Qin L, Liu N, Bao CLM, Yang DZ, Ma GX, Yi WH, Xiao GZ, Cao HL. Mesenchymal stem cells in fibrotic diseases-the two sides of the same coin. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2023; 44:268-287. [PMID: 35896695 PMCID: PMC9326421 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-022-00952-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis is caused by extensive deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) components, which play a crucial role in injury repair. Fibrosis attributes to ~45% of all deaths worldwide. The molecular pathology of different fibrotic diseases varies, and a number of bioactive factors are involved in the pathogenic process. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are a type of multipotent stem cells that have promising therapeutic effects in the treatment of different diseases. Current updates of fibrotic pathogenesis reveal that residential MSCs may differentiate into myofibroblasts which lead to the fibrosis development. However, preclinical and clinical trials with autologous or allogeneic MSCs infusion demonstrate that MSCs can relieve the fibrotic diseases by modulating inflammation, regenerating damaged tissues, remodeling the ECMs, and modulating the death of stressed cells after implantation. A variety of animal models were developed to study the mechanisms behind different fibrotic tissues and test the preclinical efficacy of MSC therapy in these diseases. Furthermore, MSCs have been used for treating liver cirrhosis and pulmonary fibrosis patients in several clinical trials, leading to satisfactory clinical efficacy without severe adverse events. This review discusses the two opposite roles of residential MSCs and external MSCs in fibrotic diseases, and summarizes the current perspective of therapeutic mechanism of MSCs in fibrosis, through both laboratory study and clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Qin
- grid.33199.310000 0004 0368 7223Department of Orthopedics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology Union Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, 518000 China
| | - Nian Liu
- grid.33199.310000 0004 0368 7223Department of Orthopedics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology Union Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, 518000 China
| | - Chao-le-meng Bao
- CASTD Regengeek (Shenzhen) Medical Technology Co. Ltd, Shenzhen, 518000 China
| | - Da-zhi Yang
- grid.33199.310000 0004 0368 7223Department of Orthopedics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology Union Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, 518000 China
| | - Gui-xing Ma
- grid.263817.90000 0004 1773 1790Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Cell Microenvironment and Disease Research, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Cell Microenvironment, Shenzhen, 518055 China
| | - Wei-hong Yi
- grid.33199.310000 0004 0368 7223Department of Orthopedics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology Union Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, 518000 China
| | - Guo-zhi Xiao
- grid.263817.90000 0004 1773 1790Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Cell Microenvironment and Disease Research, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Cell Microenvironment, Shenzhen, 518055 China
| | - Hui-ling Cao
- grid.263817.90000 0004 1773 1790Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Cell Microenvironment and Disease Research, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Cell Microenvironment, Shenzhen, 518055 China
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Tang N, Hong F, Hao W, Yu TT, Wang GG, Li W. Riboflavin ameliorates mitochondrial dysfunction via the AMPK/PGC1α/HO‑1 signaling pathway and attenuates carbon tetrachloride‑induced liver fibrosis in rats. Exp Ther Med 2022; 24:608. [PMID: 36160891 PMCID: PMC9468838 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2022.11545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis is a global health problem, with increasing evidence demonstrating that oxidative stress serves a pivotal role in fibrogenesis. Riboflavin is a vital nutrient in the human and animal diet, which enhances the activity of antioxidant enzymes and ameliorates oxidative stress. The present study evaluated the effect of riboflavin on liver fibrosis and the mechanisms underlying this process. Rats were subcutaneously injected with carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) dissolved in sterile olive oil twice per week to induce hepatic fibrosis. The effect of riboflavin on CCl4-induced liver fibrosis was then assessed. Blood samples and liver tissues were collected and analyzed. The liver tissue morphological changes, immunohistochemical analysis, levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) in the mitochondria, and the protein expression levels of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), p38, c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ coactivator-1α (PGC-1α) and heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) in the liver were also analyzed. The results demonstrated that riboflavin treatment significantly decreased the levels of alanine transaminase and aspartate transaminase in the serum, increased SOD activity and modulated the MDA level in the mitochondria. Furthermore, riboflavin significantly inhibited the CCl4-induced, upregulated protein expression levels of phosphorylated (p)-ERK, p-p38, p-JNK, TGF-β1 and α-SMA. Moreover, riboflavin significantly increased the expression of p-AMPK, PGC-1α and HO-1 in the liver tissue. These results suggested that riboflavin delays CCl4-induced hepatic fibrosis by enhancing the mitochondrial function via the AMPK/PGC-1α/HO-1 and mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning Tang
- Emergency Intensive Care Unit, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui 241002, P.R. China
| | - Feng Hong
- Department of Physiology, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui 241002, P.R. China
| | - Wei Hao
- Department of Experimental Center for Function Subjects, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui 241002, P.R. China
| | - Ting-Ting Yu
- Department of Experimental Center for Function Subjects, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui 241002, P.R. China
| | - Guo-Guang Wang
- Department of Pathophysiology, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui 241002, P.R. China
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Pathophysiology, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui 241002, P.R. China
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Vargas-Pozada EE, Ramos-Tovar E, Acero-Hernández C, Cardoso-Lezama I, Galindo-Gómez S, Tsutsumi V, Muriel P. Caffeine mitigates experimental nonalcoholic steatohepatitis and the progression of thioacetamide-induced liver fibrosis by blocking the MAPK and TGF-β/Smad3 signaling pathways. Ann Hepatol 2022; 27:100671. [PMID: 35065262 DOI: 10.1016/j.aohep.2022.100671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES Caffeine consumption is associated with beneficial effects on hepatic disorders. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the antifibrotic effects of caffeine on experimental nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) induced with a high-fat, high-sucrose, high-cholesterol diet (HFSCD), as well as to evaluate the ability of caffeine to prevent the progression of experimental liver fibrosis induced by the administration of thioacetamide (TAA) in rats and explore the mechanisms of action. METHODS NASH and fibrosis were induced in rats by the administration of an HFSCD for 15 weeks, and liver fibrosis was induced by intraperitoneal administration of 200 mg/kg TAA 3 times per week, for 6 weeks. Caffeine was administered at a dose of 50 mg/kg body weight. The effects of diet, TAA, and caffeine on fibrosis were evaluated by biochemical and histological examinations. The profibrotic pathways were analyzed by western blotting and immunohistochemistry. RESULTS Rats exhibited liver fibrosis after HFSCD feeding and the administration of TAA. Caffeine could reduce the hepatic level of collagen and the fibrotic area in the liver. Caffeine prevented the progression of liver fibrosis by decreasing transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), and alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) expression and by inhibiting the activation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) and Smad3 phosphorylation. CONCLUSIONS Caffeine attenuates NASH and the progression of liver fibrosis due to its antifibrotic effects and modulating the MAPK and TGF-β pathways. Therefore, caffeine could be a suitable candidate for treating liver diseases associated with fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo E Vargas-Pozada
- Laboratory of Experimental Hepatology, Department of Pharmacology, Cinvestav-IPN, Apartado 14-740 Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Erika Ramos-Tovar
- Postgraduate Studies and Research Section, School of Higher Education in Medicine-IPN, Apartado 11340 Plan de San Luis y Díaz Mirón s/n, Casco de Santo Tomás, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Consuelo Acero-Hernández
- Laboratory of Experimental Hepatology, Department of Pharmacology, Cinvestav-IPN, Apartado 14-740 Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Irina Cardoso-Lezama
- Laboratory of Experimental Hepatology, Department of Pharmacology, Cinvestav-IPN, Apartado 14-740 Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Silvia Galindo-Gómez
- Department of Infectomics and Molecular Pathogenesis, Cinvestav-IPN, Apartado 14-740 Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Víctor Tsutsumi
- Department of Infectomics and Molecular Pathogenesis, Cinvestav-IPN, Apartado 14-740 Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Pablo Muriel
- Laboratory of Experimental Hepatology, Department of Pharmacology, Cinvestav-IPN, Apartado 14-740 Mexico City, Mexico.
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Mederacke I, Filliol A, Affo S, Nair A, Hernandez C, Sun Q, Hamberger F, Brundu F, Chen Y, Ravichandra A, Huebener P, Anke H, Shi H, de la Torre RAMG, Smith JR, Henderson NC, Vondran FWR, Rothlin CV, Baehre H, Tabas I, Sancho-Bru P, Schwabe RF. The purinergic P2Y14 receptor links hepatocyte death to hepatic stellate cell activation and fibrogenesis in the liver. Sci Transl Med 2022; 14:eabe5795. [PMID: 35385339 PMCID: PMC9436006 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.abe5795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Fibrosis contributes to ~45% of deaths in western countries. In chronic liver disease, fibrosis is a major factor determining outcomes, but efficient antifibrotic therapies are lacking. Although platelet-derived growth factor and transforming growth factor-β constitute key fibrogenic mediators, they do not account for the well-established link between cell death and fibrosis in the liver. Here, we hypothesized that damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) may link epithelial cell death to fibrogenesis in the injured liver. DAMP receptor screening identified purinergic receptor P2Y14 among several candidates as highly enriched in hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), the main fibrogenic cell type of the liver. Conversely, P2Y14 ligands uridine 5'-diphosphate (UDP)-glucose and UDP-galactose were enriched in hepatocytes and were released upon different modes of cell death. Accordingly, ligand-receptor interaction analysis that combined proteomic and single-cell RNA sequencing data revealed P2Y14 ligands and P2Y14 receptor as a link between dying cells and HSCs, respectively. Treatment with P2Y14 ligands or coculture with dying hepatocytes promoted HSC activation in a P2Y14-dependent manner. P2Y14 ligands activated extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and Yes-associated protein (YAP) signaling in HSCs, resulting in ERK-dependent HSC activation. Global and HSC-selective P2Y14 deficiency attenuated liver fibrosis in multiple mouse models of liver injury. Functional expression of P2Y14 was confirmed in healthy and diseased human liver and human HSCs. In conclusion, P2Y14 ligands and their receptor constitute a profibrogenic DAMP pathway that directly links cell death to fibrogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingmar Mederacke
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Aveline Filliol
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Silvia Affo
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ajay Nair
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Celine Hernandez
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
- Current affiliation: Centre for Liver and Gastrointestinal Research, University of Birmingham, B15 2TT Birmingham, UK
| | - Qiuyan Sun
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Florian Hamberger
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Francesco Brundu
- Department of Systems Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Yu Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Aashreya Ravichandra
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
- Current affiliation: Klinikum Rechts der Isar, TUM, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Peter Huebener
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
- Current affiliation: First Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Helena Anke
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
- Current affiliation: Department of General, Visceral and Transplant Surgery, 30625 Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Hongxue Shi
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Raquel A. Martínez García de la Torre
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - James R. Smith
- Centre for Inflammation Research, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - Neil C. Henderson
- Centre for Inflammation Research, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK
- MRC Human Genetics Unit, Institute of Genetics and Cancer, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH4 2XU, UK
| | - Florian W. R. Vondran
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplant Surgery, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Carla V. Rothlin
- Department of Immunobiology and Pharmacology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06519, USA
| | - Heike Baehre
- Research Core Unit Metabolomics, Institute of Pharmacology, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Ira Tabas
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
- Department of Physiology; Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
- Institute of Human Nutrition, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Pau Sancho-Bru
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Robert F. Schwabe
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
- Institute of Human Nutrition, New York, NY 10032, USA
- Department of Hepatology & Gastroenterology, Charité, 10117 Berlin, Germany
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Liu ZN, Su QQ, Wang YH, Wu X, Lv XW. Blockade of the P2Y2 Receptor Attenuates Alcoholic Liver Inflammation by Targeting the EGFR-ERK1/2 Signaling Pathway. Drug Des Devel Ther 2022; 16:1107-1120. [PMID: 35444406 PMCID: PMC9013714 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s346376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Zhen-Ni Liu
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, People’s Republic of China
- The Key Laboratory of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicines, Ministry of Education, Hefei, People’s Republic of China
- Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qian-Qian Su
- Department of Pharmacy, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yu-Hui Wang
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, People’s Republic of China
- The Key Laboratory of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicines, Ministry of Education, Hefei, People’s Republic of China
- Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xue Wu
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, People’s Republic of China
- The Key Laboratory of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicines, Ministry of Education, Hefei, People’s Republic of China
- Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiong-Wen Lv
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, People’s Republic of China
- The Key Laboratory of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicines, Ministry of Education, Hefei, People’s Republic of China
- Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, People’s Republic of China
- Correspondence: Xiong-Wen Lv, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, 81 Mei Shan Road, Hefei, Anhui Province, 230032, People’s Republic of China, Email
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Salvoza N, Giraudi PJ, Tiribelli C, Rosso N. Natural Compounds for Counteracting Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD): Advantages and Limitations of the Suggested Candidates. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:2764. [PMID: 35269912 PMCID: PMC8911502 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23052764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2022] [Revised: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The booming prevalence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in adults and children will threaten the health system in the upcoming years. The "multiple hit" hypothesis is the currently accepted explanation of the complex etiology and pathophysiology of the disease. Some of the critical pathological events associated with the development of NAFLD are insulin resistance, steatosis, oxidative stress, inflammation, and fibrosis. Hence, attenuating these events may help prevent or delay the progression of NAFLD. Despite an increasing understanding of the mechanisms involved in NAFLD, no approved standard pharmacological treatment is available. The only currently recommended alternative relies on lifestyle modifications, including diet and physical activity. However, the lack of compliance is still hampering this approach. Thus, there is an evident need to characterize new therapeutic alternatives. Studies of food bioactive compounds became an attractive approach to overcome the reticence toward lifestyle changes. The present study aimed to review some of the reported compounds with beneficial properties in NAFLD; namely, coffee (and its components), tormentic acid, verbascoside, and silymarin. We provide details about their protective effects, their mechanism of action in ameliorating the critical pathological events involved in NAFLD, and their clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noel Salvoza
- Fondazione Italiana Fegato—ONLUS, Area Science Park Basovizza, SS14 km 163.5, 34149 Trieste, Italy; (N.S.); (P.J.G.)
- Philippine Council for Health Research and Development, DOST Compound, Bicutan, Taguig 1631, Philippines
| | - Pablo J. Giraudi
- Fondazione Italiana Fegato—ONLUS, Area Science Park Basovizza, SS14 km 163.5, 34149 Trieste, Italy; (N.S.); (P.J.G.)
| | - Claudio Tiribelli
- Fondazione Italiana Fegato—ONLUS, Area Science Park Basovizza, SS14 km 163.5, 34149 Trieste, Italy; (N.S.); (P.J.G.)
| | - Natalia Rosso
- Fondazione Italiana Fegato—ONLUS, Area Science Park Basovizza, SS14 km 163.5, 34149 Trieste, Italy; (N.S.); (P.J.G.)
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10
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Rahman SR, Roper JA, Grove JI, Aithal GP, Pun KT, Bennett AJ. Integrins as a drug target in liver fibrosis. Liver Int 2022; 42:507-521. [PMID: 35048542 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
As the worldwide prevalence of chronic liver diseases is high and continuing to increase, there is an urgent need for treatment to prevent cirrhosis-related morbidity and mortality. Integrins are heterodimeric cell-surface proteins that are promising targets for therapeutic intervention. αv integrins are central in the development of fibrosis as they activate latent TGFβ, a known profibrogenic cytokine. The αv subunit can form heterodimers with β1, β3, β5, β6 or β8 subunits and one or more of these integrins are central to the development of liver fibrosis, however, their relative importance is not understood. This review summarises the current knowledge of αv integrins and their respective β subunits in different organs, with a focus on liver fibrosis and the emerging preclinical and clinical data with regards to αv integrin inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syedia R Rahman
- NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK.,FRAME Alternatives Laboratory, Life Sciences, University of Nottingham Medical School, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, UK.,Nottingham Digestive Diseases Centre, Translational Medical Sciences, Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - James A Roper
- Novel Human Genetics Research Unit, GlaxoSmithKline, Stevenage, UK
| | - Jane I Grove
- NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK.,Nottingham Digestive Diseases Centre, Translational Medical Sciences, Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Guruprasad P Aithal
- NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK.,Nottingham Digestive Diseases Centre, Translational Medical Sciences, Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - K Tao Pun
- Novel Human Genetics Research Unit, GlaxoSmithKline, Stevenage, UK
| | - Andrew J Bennett
- NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK.,FRAME Alternatives Laboratory, Life Sciences, University of Nottingham Medical School, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, UK.,Nottingham Digestive Diseases Centre, Translational Medical Sciences, Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
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11
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Chang SN, Kim SH, Dey DK, Park SM, Nasif O, Bajpai VK, Kang SC, Lee J, Park JG. 5-O-Demethylnobiletin Alleviates CCl 4-Induced Acute Liver Injury by Equilibrating ROS-Mediated Apoptosis and Autophagy Induction. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22031083. [PMID: 33499185 PMCID: PMC7865239 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22031083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2020] [Revised: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Polymethoxyflavanoids (PMFs) have exhibited a vast array of therapeutic biological properties. 5-O-Demethylnobiletin (5-DN) is one such PMF having anti-inflammatory activity, yet its role in hepatoprotection has not been studied before. Results from in vitro study revealed that 5-DN did not exert a high level of cytotoxicity on HepG2 cells at 40 μM, and it was able to rescue HepG2 cell death induced by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4). Subsequently, we investigated acute liver injury on BALB/c mice induced by CCl4 through the intraperitoneal injection of 1 mL/kg CCl4 and co-administration of 5-DN at (1 and 2 mg/kg) by oral gavage for 15 days. The results illustrated that treatment with 5-DN attenuated CCl4-induced elevated serum aminotransferase (AST)/alanine aminotransferase (ALT) ratio and significantly ameliorated severe hepatic damage such as inflammation and fibrosis evidenced through lesser aberrations in the liver histology of 5-DN dose groups. Additionally, 5-DN efficiently counteracted and equilibrated the production of ROS accelerated by CCl4 and dramatically downregulated the expression of CYP2E1 vitally involved in converting CCl4 to toxic free radicals and also enhanced the antioxidant enzymes. 5-DN treatment also inhibited cell proliferation and inflammatory pathway abnormally regulated by CCl4 treatment. Furthermore, the apoptotic response induced by CCl4 treatment was remarkably reduced by enhanced Bcl-2 expression and noticeable reduction in Bax, Bid, cleaved caspase 3, caspase 9, and apaf-1 expression. 5-DN treatment also induced the conversion of LC3 and promoted the autophagic flux. Conclusively, 5-DN exhibited hepatoprotective effects in vitro and in vivo and prevented liver fibrosis induced by CCl4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sukkum Ngullie Chang
- Department of Biotechnology, Daegu University, Gyeongsan 38453, Korea; (S.N.C.); (D.K.D.); (S.C.K.)
- Advanced Bio Convergence Center (ABCC), Pohang Technopark Foundation, Pohang 37668, Korea; (S.H.K.); (S.M.P.)
| | - Se Ho Kim
- Advanced Bio Convergence Center (ABCC), Pohang Technopark Foundation, Pohang 37668, Korea; (S.H.K.); (S.M.P.)
- School of Chemical Engineering, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan 38541, Korea
| | - Debasish Kumar Dey
- Department of Biotechnology, Daegu University, Gyeongsan 38453, Korea; (S.N.C.); (D.K.D.); (S.C.K.)
| | - Seon Min Park
- Advanced Bio Convergence Center (ABCC), Pohang Technopark Foundation, Pohang 37668, Korea; (S.H.K.); (S.M.P.)
| | - Omaima Nasif
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, King Saud University (Medical City), King Khalid University Hospital, P.O. Box 2925, Riyadh 11461, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Vivek K. Bajpai
- Department of Energy and Materials Engineering, Dongguk University-Seoul, 30 Pildong-ro 1-gil, Seoul 04620, Korea
- Correspondence: (V.K.B.); (J.T.L.); (J.G.P.); Fax: +82-32-872-4046 (V.K.B.); +82-53-810-4631 (J.L.); +82-54-223-2780 (J.G.P.)
| | - Sun Chul Kang
- Department of Biotechnology, Daegu University, Gyeongsan 38453, Korea; (S.N.C.); (D.K.D.); (S.C.K.)
| | - Jintae Lee
- School of Chemical Engineering, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan 38541, Korea
- Correspondence: (V.K.B.); (J.T.L.); (J.G.P.); Fax: +82-32-872-4046 (V.K.B.); +82-53-810-4631 (J.L.); +82-54-223-2780 (J.G.P.)
| | - Jae Gyu Park
- Advanced Bio Convergence Center (ABCC), Pohang Technopark Foundation, Pohang 37668, Korea; (S.H.K.); (S.M.P.)
- Correspondence: (V.K.B.); (J.T.L.); (J.G.P.); Fax: +82-32-872-4046 (V.K.B.); +82-53-810-4631 (J.L.); +82-54-223-2780 (J.G.P.)
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12
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ERK Pathway in Activated, Myofibroblast-Like, Hepatic Stellate Cells: A Critical Signaling Crossroad Sustaining Liver Fibrosis. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20112700. [PMID: 31159366 PMCID: PMC6600376 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20112700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2019] [Revised: 05/21/2019] [Accepted: 05/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibrogenic progression of chronic liver disease, whatever the etiology, is characterized by persistent chronic parenchymal injury, chronic activation of inflammatory response, and sustained activation of liver fibrogenesis, and of pathological wound healing response. A critical role in liver fibrogenesis is played by hepatic myofibroblasts (MFs), a heterogeneous population of α smooth-muscle actin—positive cells that originate from various precursor cells through a process of activation and transdifferentiation. In this review, we focus the attention on the role of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) signaling pathway as a critical one in modulating selected profibrogenic phenotypic responses operated by liver MFs. We will also analyze major therapeutic antifibrotic strategies developed in the last two decades in preclinical studies, some translated to clinical conditions, designed to interfere directly or indirectly with the Ras/Raf/MEK/ERK signaling pathway in activated hepatic MFs, but that also significantly increased our knowledge on the biology and pathobiology of these fascinating profibrogenic cells.
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13
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Moon MY, Kim HJ, Kim MJ, Uhm S, Park JW, Suk KT, Park JB, Kim DJ, Kim SE. Rap1 regulates hepatic stellate cell migration through the modulation of RhoA activity in response to TGF‑β1. Int J Mol Med 2019; 44:491-502. [PMID: 31173168 PMCID: PMC6605627 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2019.4215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2018] [Accepted: 05/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Although the migration of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) is important for hepatic fibrosis, the regulation of this migration is poorly understood. Notably, transforming growth factor (TGF)‑β1 induces monocyte migration to sites of injury or inflammation during the early phase, but inhibits cell migration during the late phase. In the present study, the role of transforming protein RhoA signaling in TGF‑β1‑induced HSC migration was investigated. TGF‑β1 was found to increase the protein and mRNA levels of smooth muscle actin and collagen type I in HSC‑T6 cells. The level of RhoA‑GTP in TGF‑β1‑stimulated cells was significantly higher than that in control cells. Furthermore, the phosphorylation of cofilin and formation of filamentous actin (F‑actin) were more marked in TGF‑β1‑stimulated cells than in control cells. Additionally, TGF‑β1 induced the activation of nuclear factor‑κB, and the expression of extracellular matrix proteins and several cytokines in HSC‑T6 cells. The active form of Rap1 (Rap1 V12) suppressed RhoA‑GTP levels, whereas the dominant‑negative form of Rap1 (Rap1 N17) augmented RhoA‑GTP levels. Therefore, the data confirmed that Rap1 regulated the activation of RhoA in TGF‑β1‑stimulated HSC‑T6 cells. These findings suggest that TGF‑β1 regulates Rap1, resulting in the suppression of RhoA, activation of and formation of F‑actin during the migration of HSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mi-Young Moon
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hallym University Sacred Heart Hospital, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Anyang, Gyeonggi 14068, Republic of Korea
| | - Hee-Jun Kim
- Ilsong Institute of Life Science, Hallym University, Anyang, Gyeonggi 14066, Republic of Korea
| | - Mo-Jong Kim
- Ilsong Institute of Life Science, Hallym University, Anyang, Gyeonggi 14066, Republic of Korea
| | - Sunho Uhm
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hallym University Sacred Heart Hospital, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Anyang, Gyeonggi 14068, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji-Won Park
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hallym University Sacred Heart Hospital, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Anyang, Gyeonggi 14068, Republic of Korea
| | - Ki-Tae Suk
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hallym University Chuncheon Sacred Heart Hospital, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Chuncheon, Gangwon 24253, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Bong Park
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Chuncheon, Gangwon 24252, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong-Jun Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hallym University Chuncheon Sacred Heart Hospital, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Chuncheon, Gangwon 24253, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung-Eun Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hallym University Sacred Heart Hospital, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Anyang, Gyeonggi 14068, Republic of Korea
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14
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Ramos-Tovar E, Buendia-Montaño LD, Galindo-Gómez S, Hernández-Aquino E, Tsutsumi V, Muriel P. Stevia prevents experimental cirrhosis by reducing hepatic myofibroblasts and modulating molecular profibrotic pathways. Hepatol Res 2019; 49:212-223. [PMID: 30338893 DOI: 10.1111/hepr.13275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2018] [Revised: 09/17/2018] [Accepted: 10/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
AIM The aims of the present study were to investigate the capacity of stevia leaves to prevent experimental cirrhosis induced by chronic administration of carbon tetrachloride (CCl4 ) in rats and to explore the action mechanism involved. METHODS Liver cirrhosis was established by CCl4 treatment (400 mg/kg i.p. three times a week for 12 weeks); stevia powder was administered (100 mg/kg by gavage daily) during the CCl4 treatment. Serum markers of liver damage and hydroxyproline were evaluated and histopathological analyses were carried out. The profibrotic pathways were analyzed by western blot and immunohistochemistry. RESULTS We found for the first time that stevia cotreatment prevented the elevation of serum markers of necrosis and cholestasis and the occurrence of liver fibrosis. It is worth noting that stevia downregulated several profibrogenic pathways, including the reduction of hepatic myofibroblasts and decreased matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)2 and MMP13 expression, thereby blocking the liberation of transforming growth factor-β from the extracellular matrix. Notably, stevia reduced the phosphorylation of pSmad3L, the most profibrogenic and mitogenic Smad, by inhibiting the activation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase and extracellular signal-regulated kinase. Interestingly, Smad7, an important antifibrotic molecule, was upregulated by stevia treatment in cirrhotic rats. These multitarget mechanisms led to the prevention of experimental cirrhosis. CONCLUSIONS Because stevia possesses a reasonable safety profile, our results indicate that it could be useful in the clinical setting to treat chronic liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika Ramos-Tovar
- Laboratory of Experimental Hepatology, Department of Pharmacology, Cinvestav-IPN, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Laura D Buendia-Montaño
- Laboratory of Experimental Hepatology, Department of Pharmacology, Cinvestav-IPN, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Silvia Galindo-Gómez
- Department of Infectomics and Molecular Pathogenesis, Cinvestav-IPN, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Erika Hernández-Aquino
- Laboratory of Experimental Hepatology, Department of Pharmacology, Cinvestav-IPN, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Víctor Tsutsumi
- Department of Infectomics and Molecular Pathogenesis, Cinvestav-IPN, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Pablo Muriel
- Laboratory of Experimental Hepatology, Department of Pharmacology, Cinvestav-IPN, Mexico City, Mexico
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15
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AICAR-Induced AMPK Activation Inhibits the Noncanonical NF-κB Pathway to Attenuate Liver Injury and Fibrosis in BDL Rats. Can J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2018; 2018:6181432. [PMID: 30662889 PMCID: PMC6314002 DOI: 10.1155/2018/6181432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2018] [Revised: 11/17/2018] [Accepted: 11/29/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To evaluate the AMP-activated protein kinase- (AMPK-) mediated signaling and NF-κB-related inflammatory pathways that contribute to cholestatic diseases in the bile duct ligation (BDL) rat model of chronic cholestasis and verify the protective role of 5-Aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide1-β-D-ribofuranoside (AICAR) against hepatic injury and fibrosis triggered by cholestasis-related inflammation. METHODS Animals were randomly divided into three groups: sham-operated group, BDL group, and BDL+ AICAR group. Cholestatic liver injury was induced by common BDL. Two weeks later, rats in BDL+AICAR group started receiving AICAR treatment. Hepatic pathology was examined by haematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and sirius red staining and hydroxyproline assay was performed in evaluating the severity of hepatic cirrhosis. Real-time PCR and Western blot were performed for RNA gene expression of RNA and protein levels, respectively. RESULTS The BDL group showed liver injury as evidenced by histological changes and elevation in serum biochemicals, ductular reaction, fibrosis, and inflammation. The mRNA expression of canonical NF-κB inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-1β, TGF-β, and the protein of noncanonical NF-κB, P100, and P52 was upregulated in the livers of BDL rats. The BDL rats with the administration of AICAR could induce AMPK activation inhibiting the noncanonical NF-κB pathway to attenuate liver injury and fibrosis in BDL rats. CONCLUSION The BDL model of hepatic cholestatic injury resulting in activation of Kupffer cells and recruitment of immune cells might initiate an inflammatory response through activation of the NF-κB pathway. The AMPK activator AICAR significantly alleviated BDL-induced inflammation in rats by mainly inhibiting the noncanonical NF-κB pathway and thus protecting against hepatic injury and fibrosis triggered by BDL.
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16
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Yoshida K, Matsuzaki K, Murata M, Yamaguchi T, Suwa K, Okazaki K. Clinico-Pathological Importance of TGF-β/Phospho-Smad Signaling during Human Hepatic Fibrocarcinogenesis. Cancers (Basel) 2018; 10:cancers10060183. [PMID: 29874844 PMCID: PMC6025395 DOI: 10.3390/cancers10060183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2018] [Revised: 05/19/2018] [Accepted: 06/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic viral hepatitis is a global public health problem, with approximately 570 million persons chronically infected. Hepatitis B and C viruses increase the risk of morbidity and mortality from liver cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and extrahepatic complications that develop. Hepatitis virus infection induces transforming growth factor (TGF)-β, which influences microenvironments within the infected liver. TGF-β promotes liver fibrosis by up-regulating extracellular matrix production by hepatic stellate cells. TGF-β is also up-regulated in patients with HCC, in whom it contributes importantly to bringing about a favorable microenvironment for tumor growth. Thus, TGF-β is thought to be a major factor regulating liver fibrosis and carcinogenesis. Since TGF-β carries out regulatory signaling by influencing the phosphorylation of Smads, we have generated several kinds of phospho-specific antibodies to Smad2/3. Using these, we have identified three types of phospohorylated forms: COOH-terminally phosphorylated Smad2/3 (pSmad2C and pSmad3C), linker phosphorylated Smad2/3 (pSmad2L and pSmad3L), and dually phosphorylated Smad3 (pSmad2L/C and pSmad3L/C). TGF-β-mediated pSmad2/3C signaling terminates cell proliferation; on the other hand, cytokine-induced pSmad3L signaling accelerates cell proliferation and promotes fibrogenesis. This review addresses TGF-β/Smad signal transduction in chronic liver injuries and carcinogenic processes. We also discuss the reversibility of Smad signaling after antiviral therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katsunori Yoshida
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kansai Medical University 2-5-1, Shin-Machi, Hirakata, Osaka 573-1010, Japan.
| | - Koichi Matsuzaki
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kansai Medical University 2-5-1, Shin-Machi, Hirakata, Osaka 573-1010, Japan.
| | - Miki Murata
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kansai Medical University 2-5-1, Shin-Machi, Hirakata, Osaka 573-1010, Japan.
| | - Takashi Yamaguchi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kansai Medical University 2-5-1, Shin-Machi, Hirakata, Osaka 573-1010, Japan.
| | - Kanehiko Suwa
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kansai Medical University 2-5-1, Shin-Machi, Hirakata, Osaka 573-1010, Japan.
| | - Kazuichi Okazaki
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kansai Medical University 2-5-1, Shin-Machi, Hirakata, Osaka 573-1010, Japan.
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Que R, Shen Y, Ren J, Tao Z, Zhu X, Li Y. Estrogen receptor‑β‑dependent effects of saikosaponin‑d on the suppression of oxidative stress‑induced rat hepatic stellate cell activation. Int J Mol Med 2017; 41:1357-1364. [PMID: 29286085 PMCID: PMC5819932 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2017.3349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2016] [Accepted: 12/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Saikosaponin-d (SSd) is one of the major triterpenoid saponins derived from Bupleurum falcatum L., which has been reported to possess antifibrotic activity. At present, there is little information regarding the potential target of SSd in hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), which serve an important role in excessive extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition during the pathogenesis of hepatic fibrosis. Our recent study indicated that SSd may be considered a novel type of phytoestrogen with estrogen-like actions. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the effects of SSd on the proliferation and activation of HSCs, and the underlying mechanisms associated with estrogen receptors. In the present study, a rat HSC line (HSC-T6) was used and cultured with dimethyl sulfoxide, SSd, or estradiol (E2; positive control), in the presence or absence of three estrogen receptor (ER) antagonists [ICI-182780, methylpiperidinopyrazole (MPP) or (R,R)-tetrahydrochrysene (THC)], for 24 h as pretreatment. Oxidative stress was induced by exposure to hydrogen peroxide for 4 h. Cell proliferation was assessed by MTT growth assay. Malondialdehyde (MDA), CuZn-superoxide dismutase (CuZn-SOD), tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-1 (TIMP- 1), matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1), transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), hydroxyproline (Hyp) and collagen-1 (COL1) levels in cell culture supernatants were determined by ELISA. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) was detected by flow cytometry. Total and phosphorylated mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) were examined by western blot analysis. TGF-β1 mRNA expression was determined by RT-quantitative (q)PCR. SSd and E2 were able to significantly suppress oxidative stress-induced proliferation and activation of HSC-T6 cells. Furthermore, SSd and E2 were able to reduce ECM deposition, as demonstrated by the decrease in transforming growth factor-β1, hydroxyproline, collagen-1 and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-1, and by the increase in matrix metalloproteinase-1. These results suggested that the possible molecular mechanism could involve downregulation of the reactive oxygen species/mitogen-activated protein kinases signaling pathway. Finally, the effects of SSd and E2 could be blocked by co-incubation with ICI-182780 or THC, but not MPP, thus indicating that ERβ may be the potential target of SSd in HSC-T6 cells. In conclusion, these findings suggested that SSd may suppress oxidative stress-induced activation of HSCs, which relied on modulation of ERβ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renye Que
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Municipal Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200071, P.R. China
| | - Yanting Shen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Municipal Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200071, P.R. China
| | - Jianlin Ren
- Department of Scientific Research, Shanghai Municipal Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200071, P.R. China
| | - Zhihui Tao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Municipal Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200071, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoyan Zhu
- Department of Physiology, The Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, P.R. China
| | - Yong Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Municipal Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200071, P.R. China
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Kang HH, Kim IK, Lee HI, Joo H, Lim JU, Lee J, Lee SH, Moon HS. Chronic intermittent hypoxia induces liver fibrosis in mice with diet-induced obesity via TLR4/MyD88/MAPK/NF-kB signaling pathways. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2017.06.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Protective Effects of Amarogentin against Carbon Tetrachloride-Induced Liver Fibrosis in Mice. Molecules 2017; 22:molecules22050754. [PMID: 28481234 PMCID: PMC6154739 DOI: 10.3390/molecules22050754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2017] [Revised: 04/30/2017] [Accepted: 05/01/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Amarogentin, a secoiridoid glycoside that is mainly extracted from Swertia and Gentiana roots, has been suggested to exhibit many biological effects, including anti-oxidative, anti-tumour, and anti-diabetic activities. The present study was designed to evaluate the protective effects of amarogentin on carbon tetrachloride-induced liver fibrosis in vivo and the underlying mechanism. Fibrosis was induced by subcutaneous injections of 6 mL/kg of 20% carbon tetrachloride (dissolved in olive oil) twice per week for seven weeks. Mice were orally treated with 25, 50, and 100 mg/kg amarogentin and with colchicine as a positive control. Biochemical assays and histopathological investigations showed that amarogentin delayed the formation of liver fibrosis; decreased alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, malondialdehyde and hydroxyproline levels; and increased albumin, cyclic guanosine monophosphate, glutathione peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase levels. Moreover, amarogentin exhibited downregulation of α-smooth muscle actin and transforming growth factor-β₁ levels in immunohistochemical and Western blot analyses. The levels of phosphorylated extracellular regulated protein kinases, c-Jun N-terminal kinase, and p38 were also significantly reduced in all amarogentin-treated groups in a dose-dependent manner. These findings demonstrated that amarogentin exerted significant hepatoprotective effects against carbon tetrachloride-induced liver fibrosis in mice and suggested that the effect of amarogentin against liver fibrosis may be by anti-oxidative properties and suppressing the mitogen-activated protein kinase signalling pathway.
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20
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The common dietary flavonoid myricetin attenuates liver fibrosis in carbon tetrachloride treated mice. Mol Nutr Food Res 2017; 61. [DOI: 10.1002/mnfr.201600392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2016] [Revised: 12/09/2016] [Accepted: 12/12/2016] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES Biliary atresia (BA) is an idiopathic neonatal liver disease, characterized by inflammatory and fibrotic obliteration of extrahepatic bile ducts. Therefore, reliable methods for noninvasive diagnosis are needed. The present study aimed to analyze circulating microRNAs (miRNAs) in patients with BA using next-generation sequencing for identifying novel diagnostic biomarkers. METHODS An initial screening of miRNAs in plasma from patients with BA and healthy controls (HCs) was performed on an Illumina next-generation sequencing platform. Differential miRNAs were validated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Target genes and related signal transduction pathways of differential miRNAs were predicted by online software. RESULTS In total, 146 differential miRNAs were identified by deep sequencing. Fifteen miRNAs with read counts >1000, that included 7 upregulated and 8 downregulated miRNAs, were predicted to be associated with liver fibrosis, biliary differentiation, and bile duct development. Of these, 6 miRNAs with read counts >5000 were analyzed by qPCR on an independent sample set comprising 44 patients with BA, 20 cholestatic disease controls, and 20 HCs. Two upregulated miRNAs (miR-122-5p, miR-100-5p) and 2 downregulated miRNAs (miR-140-3p, miR-126-3p) were confirmed by individual qPCR. Only miR-140-3p was significantly different from controls (P < 0.05), yielding an area under receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.75 with sensitivity of 66.7% and specificity of 79.1% at optimal threshold. CONCLUSIONS Our findings indicate that patients with BA exhibit a distinct profile of circulating miRNAs and that plasma miR-140-3p may be a promising diagnostic biomarker for this disease.
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Grünwald B, Harant V, Schaten S, Frühschütz M, Spallek R, Höchst B, Stutzer K, Berchtold S, Erkan M, Prokopchuk O, Martignoni M, Esposito I, Heikenwalder M, Gupta A, Siveke J, Saftig P, Knolle P, Wohlleber D, Krüger A. Pancreatic Premalignant Lesions Secrete Tissue Inhibitor of Metalloproteinases-1, Which Activates Hepatic Stellate Cells Via CD63 Signaling to Create a Premetastatic Niche in the Liver. Gastroenterology 2016; 151:1011-1024.e7. [PMID: 27506299 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2016.07.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2016] [Revised: 07/04/2016] [Accepted: 07/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) metastasizes to liver at early stages, making this disease highly lethal. Tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-1 (TIMP1) creates a metastasis-susceptible environment in the liver. We investigated the role of TIMP1 and its receptor CD63 in metastasis of early-stage pancreatic tumors using mice and human cell lines and tissue samples. METHODS We obtained liver and plasma samples from patients in Germany with chronic pancreatitis, pancreatic intra-epithelial neoplasia, or PDAC, as well as hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). We performed studies with Ptf1a+/Cre;Kras+/LSL-G12D;Trp53loxP/loxP (CPK) mice, Pdx-1+/Cre;Kras+/LSL-G12D;Trp53+/LSL-R172H (KPC) mice, and their respective healthy littermates as control, and Cd63-/- mice with their wild-type littermates. KPC mice were bred with Timp1-/- mice to produce KPCxTimp1-/- mice. TIMP1 was overexpressed and CD63 was knocked down in mice using adenoviral vectors AdTIMP1 or AdshCD63, respectively. Hepatic susceptibility to metastases was determined after intravenous inoculation of syngeneic 9801L pancreas carcinoma cells. Pancreata and liver tissues were collected and analyzed by histology, immunohistochemical, immunoblot, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and quantitative polymerase chain reaction analyses. We analyzed the effects of TIMP1 overexpression or knockdown and CD63 knockdown in transduced human primary HSCs and HSC cell lines. RESULTS Chronic pancreatitis, pancreatic intra-epithelial neoplasia, and PDAC tissues from patients expressed higher levels of TIMP1 protein than normal pancreas. The premalignant pancreatic lesions that developed in KPC and CPK mice expressed TIMP1 and secreted it into the circulation. In vitro and in vivo, TIMP1 activated human or mouse HSCs, which required interaction between TIMP1 and CD63 and signaling via phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase, but not TIMP1 protease inhibitor activity. This signaling pathway induced expression of endogenous TIMP1. TIMP1 knockdown in HSCs reduced their activation. Cultured TIMP1-activated human and mouse HSCs began to express stromal-derived factor-1, which induced neutrophil migration, a marker of the premetastatic niche. Mice with pancreatic intra-epithelial neoplasia-derived systemic increases in TIMP1 developed more liver metastases after injections of pancreatic cancer cells than mice without increased levels of TIMP1. This increase in formation of liver metastases from injected pancreatic cancer cells was not observed in TIMP1 or CD63 knockout mice. CONCLUSIONS Expression of TIMP1 is increased in chronic pancreatitis, pancreatic intra-epithelial neoplasia, and PDAC tissues from patients. TIMP1 signaling via CD63 leads to activation of HSCs, which create an environment in the liver that increases its susceptibility to pancreatic tumor cells. Strategies to block TIMP1 signaling via CD63 might be developed to prevent PDAC metastasis to the liver.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Grünwald
- Institut für Molekulare Immunologie und Experimentelle Onkologie, Technische Universität München, München, Germany
| | - Veronika Harant
- Institut für Molekulare Immunologie und Experimentelle Onkologie, Technische Universität München, München, Germany
| | - Susanne Schaten
- Institut für Molekulare Immunologie und Experimentelle Onkologie, Technische Universität München, München, Germany
| | - Monika Frühschütz
- Institut für Molekulare Immunologie und Experimentelle Onkologie, Technische Universität München, München, Germany
| | - Ria Spallek
- Institut für Molekulare Immunologie und Experimentelle Onkologie, Technische Universität München, München, Germany
| | - Bastian Höchst
- Institut für Molekulare Immunologie und Experimentelle Onkologie, Technische Universität München, München, Germany
| | - Katharina Stutzer
- Institut für Molekulare Immunologie und Experimentelle Onkologie, Technische Universität München, München, Germany
| | - Sonja Berchtold
- Institut für Molekulare Immunologie und Experimentelle Onkologie, Technische Universität München, München, Germany
| | - Mert Erkan
- Chirurgische Klinik Technische Universität München, München, Germany
| | - Olga Prokopchuk
- Chirurgische Klinik Technische Universität München, München, Germany
| | - Marc Martignoni
- Chirurgische Klinik Technische Universität München, München, Germany
| | - Irene Esposito
- Institut für Pathologie, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, München, Germany
| | | | - Aayush Gupta
- II. Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, München, Germany
| | - Jens Siveke
- II. Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, München, Germany
| | - Paul Saftig
- Institut für Biochemie, Christian-Albrechts-Universität zu Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Percy Knolle
- Institut für Molekulare Immunologie und Experimentelle Onkologie, Technische Universität München, München, Germany
| | - Dirk Wohlleber
- Institut für Molekulare Immunologie und Experimentelle Onkologie, Technische Universität München, München, Germany
| | - Achim Krüger
- Institut für Molekulare Immunologie und Experimentelle Onkologie, Technische Universität München, München, Germany.
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Serum Amyloid A Induces Inflammation, Proliferation and Cell Death in Activated Hepatic Stellate Cells. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0150893. [PMID: 26937641 PMCID: PMC4777566 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0150893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2015] [Accepted: 02/19/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Serum amyloid A (SAA) is an evolutionary highly conserved acute phase protein that is predominantly secreted by hepatocytes. However, its role in liver injury and fibrogenesis has not been elucidated so far. In this study, we determined the effects of SAA on hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), the main fibrogenic cell type of the liver. Serum amyloid A potently activated IκB kinase, c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), Erk and Akt and enhanced NF-κB-dependent luciferase activity in primary human and rat HSCs. Serum amyloid A induced the transcription of MCP-1, RANTES and MMP9 in an NF-κB- and JNK-dependent manner. Blockade of NF-κB revealed cytotoxic effects of SAA in primary HSCs with signs of apoptosis such as caspase 3 and PARP cleavage and Annexin V staining. Serum amyloid A induced HSC proliferation, which depended on JNK, Erk and Akt activity. In primary hepatocytes, SAA also activated MAP kinases, but did not induce relevant cell death after NF-κB inhibition. In two models of hepatic fibrogenesis, CCl4 treatment and bile duct ligation, hepatic mRNA levels of SAA1 and SAA3 were strongly increased. In conclusion, SAA may modulate fibrogenic responses in the liver in a positive and negative fashion by inducing inflammation, proliferation and cell death in HSCs.
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Petta S, Valenti L, Marra F, Grimaudo S, Tripodo C, Bugianesi E, Cammà C, Cappon A, Di Marco V, Di Maira G, Dongiovanni P, Rametta R, Gulino A, Mozzi E, Orlando E, Maggioni M, Pipitone RM, Fargion S, Craxì A. MERTK rs4374383 polymorphism affects the severity of fibrosis in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. J Hepatol 2016; 64:682-90. [PMID: 26596542 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2015.10.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2015] [Revised: 09/16/2015] [Accepted: 10/12/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIM Homozygosity for a common non-coding rs4374383 G>A polymorphism in MERTK (myeloid-epithelial-reproductive tyrosine kinase) has been associated with the protection against fibrosis progression in chronic hepatitis C. The main study objective was to assess whether MERTK AA genotype influences liver fibrosis, and secondarily MERTK expression in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). We also investigated whether MERTK is expressed in human hepatic stellate cells (HSC) and in murine models of fibrogenesis. METHODS We considered 533 consecutive patients who underwent liver biopsy for suspected non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) without severe obesity from two Italian cohorts. As controls, we evaluated 158 patients with normal liver enzymes and without metabolic disturbances. MERTK rs4374383 genotype was assessed by 5'-nuclease assays. MERTK expression was analysed in mouse models of fibrosis, and the effect of the MERTK ligand GAS6 were investigated in human HSC. RESULTS Clinically significant fibrosis (stage F2-F4) was observed in 19% of patients with MERTK AA compared to 30% in those with MERTK GG/GA (OR 0.43, CI 0.21-0.88, p=0.02; adjusted for centre, and genetic, clinical-metabolic and histological variables). The protective rs4374383 AA genotype was associated with lower MERTK hepatic expression. MERTK was overexpressed in the liver of NAFLD patients with F2-F4 fibrosis and in in vivo models of fibrogenesis. Furthermore, exposure of cultured human HSC to the MERTK ligand GAS6, increased cell migration and induced procollagen expression. These effects were counteracted by inhibition of MERTK activity, which also resulted in apoptotic death of HSC. CONCLUSIONS The rs4374383 AA genotype, associated with lower intrahepatic expression of MERTK, is protective against F2-F4 fibrosis in patients with NAFLD. The mechanism may involve modulation of HSC activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salvatore Petta
- Sezione di Gastroenterologia, DiBiMIS, University of Palermo, Italy.
| | - Luca Valenti
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi, Internal Medicine, Fondazione Ca' Granda IRCCS Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy
| | - Fabio Marra
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale e Clinica, Università degli Studi di Firenze, Italy
| | | | - Claudio Tripodo
- Cattedra di Anatomia Patologica, University of Palermo, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Bugianesi
- Division of Gastro-Hepatology, Department of Medical Sciences, San Giovanni Battista Hospital, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Calogero Cammà
- Sezione di Gastroenterologia, DiBiMIS, University of Palermo, Italy
| | - Andrea Cappon
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale e Clinica, Università degli Studi di Firenze, Italy
| | - Vito Di Marco
- Sezione di Gastroenterologia, DiBiMIS, University of Palermo, Italy
| | - Giovanni Di Maira
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale e Clinica, Università degli Studi di Firenze, Italy
| | - Paola Dongiovanni
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi, Internal Medicine, Fondazione Ca' Granda IRCCS Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy
| | - Raffaela Rametta
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi, Internal Medicine, Fondazione Ca' Granda IRCCS Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy
| | | | - Enrico Mozzi
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi, Internal Medicine, Fondazione Ca' Granda IRCCS Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy
| | - Emanuele Orlando
- Sezione di Gastroenterologia, DiBiMIS, University of Palermo, Italy
| | - Marco Maggioni
- Pathology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Policlinico, Milano, Italy
| | | | - Silvia Fargion
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi, Internal Medicine, Fondazione Ca' Granda IRCCS Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy
| | - Antonio Craxì
- Sezione di Gastroenterologia, DiBiMIS, University of Palermo, Italy
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Yoshida K, Murata M, Yamaguchi T, Matsuzaki K, Okazaki K. Reversible Human TGF-β Signal Shifting between Tumor Suppression and Fibro-Carcinogenesis: Implications of Smad Phospho-Isoforms for Hepatic Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transitions. J Clin Med 2016; 5:jcm5010007. [PMID: 26771649 PMCID: PMC4730132 DOI: 10.3390/jcm5010007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2015] [Revised: 12/16/2015] [Accepted: 01/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and mesenchymal-epithelial transition (MET) are observed during both physiological liver wound healing and the pathological fibrotic/carcinogenic (fibro-carcinogenetic) process. TGF-β and pro-inflammatory cytokine are considered to be the major factors accelerating liver fibrosis and promoting liver carcinogenesis. Smads, consisting of intermediate linker regions connecting Mad homology domains, act as the intracellular mediators of the TGF-β signal transduction pathway. As the TGF-β receptors, c-Jun N-terminal kinase and cyclin-dependent kinase, differentially phosphorylate Smad2/3, we have generated numerous antibodies against linker (L) and C-terminal (C) phosphorylation sites in Smad2/3 and identified four types of phosphorylated forms: cytostatic COOH-terminally-phosphorylated Smad3 (pSmad3C), mitogenic pSmad3L (Ser-213) signaling, fibrogenic pSmad2L (Ser-245/250/255)/C signaling and migratory pSmad2/3L (Thr-220/179)/C signaling. After acute liver injury, TGF-β upregulates pSmad3C signaling and terminates pSmad3L (Ser-213)-mediated hepatocyte proliferation. TGF-β and pro-inflammatory cytokines cooperatively enhance collagen synthesis by upregulating pSmad2L (Thr-220)/C and pSmad3L (Thr-179)/C pathways in activated hepatic stellate cells. During chronic liver injuries, hepatocytes persistently affected by TGF-β and pro-inflammatory cytokines eventually become pre-neoplastic hepatocytes. Both myofibroblasts and pre-neoplastic hepatocyte exhibit the same carcinogenic (mitogenic) pSmad3L (Ser-213) and fibrogenic pSmad2L (Ser-245/250/255)/C signaling, with acquisition of fibro-carcinogenic properties and increasing risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Firstly, we review phospho-Smad-isoform signalings in epithelial and mesenchymal cells in physiological and pathological conditions and then consider Smad linker phosphorylation as a potential target for pathological EMT during human fibro-carcinogenesis, because human Smad phospho-isoform signals can reverse from fibro-carcinogenesis to tumor-suppression in a process of MET after therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katsunori Yoshida
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kansai Medical University, 2-5-1, Shin-machi, Hirakata, Osaka 573-1010, Japan.
| | - Miki Murata
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kansai Medical University, 2-5-1, Shin-machi, Hirakata, Osaka 573-1010, Japan.
| | - Takashi Yamaguchi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kansai Medical University, 2-5-1, Shin-machi, Hirakata, Osaka 573-1010, Japan.
| | - Koichi Matsuzaki
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kansai Medical University, 2-5-1, Shin-machi, Hirakata, Osaka 573-1010, Japan.
| | - Kazuichi Okazaki
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kansai Medical University, 2-5-1, Shin-machi, Hirakata, Osaka 573-1010, Japan.
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Hong M, Li S, Tan HY, Wang N, Tsao SW, Feng Y. Current Status of Herbal Medicines in Chronic Liver Disease Therapy: The Biological Effects, Molecular Targets and Future Prospects. Int J Mol Sci 2015; 16:28705-45. [PMID: 26633388 PMCID: PMC4691073 DOI: 10.3390/ijms161226126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2015] [Revised: 11/25/2015] [Accepted: 11/25/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic liver dysfunction or injury is a serious health problem worldwide. Chronic liver disease involves a wide range of liver pathologies that include fatty liver, hepatitis, fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. The efficiency of current synthetic agents in treating chronic liver disease is not satisfactory and they have undesirable side effects. Thereby, numerous medicinal herbs and phytochemicals have been investigated as complementary and alternative treatments for chronic liver diseases. Since some herbal products have already been used for the management of liver diseases in some countries or regions, a systematic review on these herbal medicines for chronic liver disease is urgently needed. Herein, we conducted a review describing the potential role, pharmacological studies and molecular mechanisms of several commonly used medicinal herbs and phytochemicals for chronic liver diseases treatment. Their potential toxicity and side effects were also discussed. Several herbal formulae and their biological effects in chronic liver disease treatment as well as the underlying molecular mechanisms are also summarized in this paper. This review article is a comprehensive and systematic analysis of our current knowledge of the conventional medicinal herbs and phytochemicals in treating chronic liver diseases and on the potential pitfalls which need to be addressed in future study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Hong
- School of Chinese Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Sha Li
- School of Chinese Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Hor Yue Tan
- School of Chinese Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Ning Wang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Sai-Wah Tsao
- Department of Anatomy, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Yibin Feng
- School of Chinese Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
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Pulli B, Ali M, Iwamoto Y, Zeller MWG, Schob S, Linnoila JJ, Chen JW. Myeloperoxidase-Hepatocyte-Stellate Cell Cross Talk Promotes Hepatocyte Injury and Fibrosis in Experimental Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis. Antioxid Redox Signal 2015; 23:1255-69. [PMID: 26058518 PMCID: PMC4677570 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2014.6108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Myeloperoxidase (MPO), a highly oxidative enzyme secreted by leukocytes has been implicated in human and experimental nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), but the underlying mechanisms remain unknown. In this study, we investigated how MPO contributes to progression from steatosis to NASH. RESULTS In C57Bl/6J mice fed a diet deficient in methionine and choline to induce NASH, neutrophils and to a lesser extent inflammatory monocytes are markedly increased compared with sham mice and secrete abundant amounts of MPO. Through generation of HOCl, MPO directly causes hepatocyte death in vivo. In vitro experiments demonstrate mitochondrial permeability transition pore induction via activation of SAPK/JNK and PARP. MPO also contributes to activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), the most important source of collagen in the liver. In vitro MPO-activated HSCs have an activation signature (MAPK and PI3K-AKT phosphorylation) and upregulate COL1A1, α-SMA, and CXCL1. MPO-derived oxidative stress also activates transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) in vitro, and TGF-β signaling inhibition with SB-431542 decreased steatosis and fibrosis in vivo. Conversely, congenital absence of MPO results in reduced hepatocyte injury, decreased levels of TGF-β, fewer activated HSCs, and less severe fibrosis in vivo. INNOVATION AND CONCLUSION Cumulatively, these findings demonstrate important cross talk between inflammatory myeloid cells, hepatocytes, and HSCs via MPO and establish MPO as part of a proapoptotic and profibrotic pathway of progression in NASH, as well as a potential therapeutic target to ameliorate this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Pulli
- 1 Center for Systems Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School , Boston, Massachusetts.,2 Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital , Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Muhammad Ali
- 1 Center for Systems Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School , Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Yoshiko Iwamoto
- 1 Center for Systems Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School , Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Matthias W G Zeller
- 1 Center for Systems Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School , Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Stefan Schob
- 1 Center for Systems Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School , Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jenny J Linnoila
- 1 Center for Systems Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School , Boston, Massachusetts
| | - John W Chen
- 1 Center for Systems Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School , Boston, Massachusetts.,2 Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital , Boston, Massachusetts
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Borkham-Kamphorst E, Weiskirchen R. The PDGF system and its antagonists in liver fibrosis. Cytokine Growth Factor Rev 2015; 28:53-61. [PMID: 26547628 DOI: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2015.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2015] [Accepted: 10/19/2015] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Platelet derived growth factor (PDGF) signaling plays an important role in activated hepatic stellate cells and portal fibroblast proliferation, chemotaxis, migration and cell survival. PDGF receptors and ligands are upregulated in experimental liver fibrotic models as well as in human liver fibrotic diseases. Blocking of PDGF signaling ameliorates experimental liver fibrogenesis. The plurality of molecular and cellular activities of PDGF and its involvement in initiation, progression and resolution of hepatic fibrogenesis offers an infinite number of therapeutic possibilities. These include the application of therapeutic antibodies (e.g. AbyD3263, MOR8457) which specifically sequester individual PDGF isoforms or the inhibition of PDGF isoforms by synthetic aptamers. In particular, the isolation of innovative slow off-rate modified aptamers (e.g., SOMAmer SL1 and SL5) that carry functional groups absent in natural nucleic acids by the Systematic Evolution of Ligands by EXponential (SELEX) enrichment technique offers the possibility to design high affinity aptamers that target PDGF isoforms for clinical purposes. Dominant-negative soluble PDGF receptors are also effective in attenuation of hepatic stellate cell proliferation and hepatic fibrogenesis. Moreover, some multikinase inhibitors targeting PDGF signaling have been intensively tested during the last decade and are on the way into advanced preclinical studies and clinical trials. This narrative review aims to gauge the recent progression of research into PDGF systems and liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erawan Borkham-Kamphorst
- Institute of Molecular Pathobiochemistry, Experimental Gene Therapy and Clinical Chemistry, RWTH University Hospital Aachen, Aachen, Germany.
| | - Ralf Weiskirchen
- Institute of Molecular Pathobiochemistry, Experimental Gene Therapy and Clinical Chemistry, RWTH University Hospital Aachen, Aachen, Germany.
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29
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Li J, Li X, Xu W, Wang S, Hu Z, Zhang Q, Deng X, Wang J, Zhang J, Guo C. Antifibrotic effects of luteolin on hepatic stellate cells and liver fibrosis by targeting AKT/mTOR/p70S6K and TGFβ/Smad signalling pathways. Liver Int 2015; 35:1222-33. [PMID: 25040634 DOI: 10.1111/liv.12638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2013] [Accepted: 07/06/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Luteolin has been reported to exert antifibrogenic effects in CCl4 -induced hepatic fibrosis in mice. However, limited information is available on the cellular and molecular events responsible for this effect. This study focused on the action of luteolin on hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and the relevant signalling molecules and pathways as well as the antifibrotic efficacy in multiple models of fibrosis. METHODS The in vitro effect of luteolin on rat HSCs and HSC-T6 cells was assessed using proliferation assays, invasion chamber, quantitative real-time PCR analysis and Western blotting. The in vivo effect of luteolin on progression of fibrosis was assessed in three experimental rat models induced by CCl4 , dimethylnitrosamine (DMN) and bile duct ligation (BDL). RESULTS Luteolin inhibited proliferation, migration, collagen synthesis as well as expression of fibrosis-related genes in the activated HSCs and HSC-T6 cells stimulated with or without transforming growth factor-β1(TGFβ1) or platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF). Luteolin induced HSC apoptosis associated with the increased caspase 3 activity and p53 expression, and induced G1 arrest with the decreased expression of bcl-2, Cyclin E and p-Cdk-2. Moreover, luteolin significantly inhibited PDGF and TGFβ1-simulated phosphorylation of AKT and Smad pathway. In vivo study showed that luteolin administration markedly alleviated hepatic fibrosis along with reduced elevations of alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase. HSCs were found to undergo apoptosis and decreased expression of p-Smad2 and p-AKT in luteolin-treated animals. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates that luteolin prevents the progression of liver fibrosis through multiple mechanisms and indicates that luteolin has potential for effective treatment of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, 200233, China; School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
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Jia D, Duan F, Peng P, Sun L, Ruan Y, Gu J. Pyrroloquinoline-quinone suppresses liver fibrogenesis in mice. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0121939. [PMID: 25822822 PMCID: PMC4379100 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0121939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2014] [Accepted: 02/09/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis represents the consequences of a sustained wound healing response to chronic liver injuries, and its progression toward cirrhosis is the major cause of liver-related morbidity and mortality worldwide. However, anti-fibrotic treatment remains an unconquered area for drug development. Accumulating evidence indicate that oxidative stress plays a critical role in liver fibrogenesis. In this study, we found that PQQ, a natural anti-oxidant present in a wide variety of human foods, exerted potent anti-fibrotic and ROS-scavenging activity in Balb/C mouse models of liver fibrosis. The antioxidant activity of PQQ was involved in the modulation of multiple steps during liver fibrogenesis, including chronic liver injury, hepatic inflammation, as well as activation of hepatic stellate cells and production of extracellular matrix. PQQ also suppressed the up-regulation of RACK1 in activated HSCs in vivo and in vitro. Our data suggest that PQQ suppresses oxidative stress and liver fibrogenesis in mice, and provide rationale for the clinical application of PQQ in the prevention and treatment of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongwei Jia
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R.China
| | - Fangfang Duan
- Institute of Biomedical Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R.China
| | - Peike Peng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R.China
| | - Linlin Sun
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R.China
| | - Yuanyuan Ruan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R.China
- * E-mail: (YR); (JG)
| | - Jianxin Gu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R.China
- Institute of Biomedical Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R.China
- * E-mail: (YR); (JG)
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The inhibition of activated hepatic stellate cells proliferation by arctigenin through G0/G1 phase cell cycle arrest: Persistent p27Kip1 induction by interfering with PI3K/Akt/FOXO3a signaling pathway. Eur J Pharmacol 2015; 747:71-87. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2014.11.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2014] [Revised: 11/06/2014] [Accepted: 11/20/2014] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
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Park KC, Park JH, Jeon JY, Kim SY, Kim JM, Lim CY, Lee TH, Kim HK, Lee HG, Kim SM, Kwon HJ, Suh JS, Kim SW, Choi SH. A new histone deacetylase inhibitor improves liver fibrosis in BDL rats through suppression of hepatic stellate cells. Br J Pharmacol 2014; 171:4820-30. [PMID: 24467283 PMCID: PMC4232907 DOI: 10.1111/bph.12590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2013] [Revised: 01/04/2014] [Accepted: 01/17/2014] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Purpose Activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) is a crucial step in the pathogenesis of hepatic fibrosis. Histone deacetylase (HDAC) is an attractive target in liver fibrosis because it plays a key role in gene expression and cell differentiation. We have developed a HDAC inhibitor, N-hydroxy-7-(2-naphthylthio)heptanomide (HNHA), and investigated the anti-fibrotic activity of HNHA in vitro and in vivo. Experimental Approach We investigated the anti-fibrotic effect of HNHA on mouse and human HSC activation in vitro and in the liver of bile duct-ligated (BDL) rats in vivo using cell proliferation assays, cell cycle analysis, biochemical assay, immunohistochemistry and Western blots. Liver pathology was assessed with histochemical techniques. Key Results HNHA inhibited proliferation and arrested the cell cycle via p21 induction in HSCs. In addition, HNHA induced apoptosis of HSCs, which was correlated with reduced COX-2 expression, NF-κB activation and cell death signals. HNHA restored liver function and decreased the accumulation of extracellular matrix in the liver via suppression of HSC activation in BDL rats in vivo. HNHA administration also increased survival in BDL rats. Conclusions and Implications HNHA improved liver function, suppressed liver fibrosis and increased survival of BDL rats, accompanied by reduction of cell growth, activation and survival of HSCs. These findings show that HNHA may be a potent anti-fibrosis agent against hepatic fibrosis because of its multi-targeted inhibition of HSC activity in vivo and in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ki Cheong Park
- Brain Korea 21 PLUS Project for Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea; Department of Surgery, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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Yoshida K, Murata M, Yamaguchi T, Matsuzaki K. TGF-β/Smad signaling during hepatic fibro-carcinogenesis (review). Int J Oncol 2014; 45:1363-71. [PMID: 25050845 PMCID: PMC4151811 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2014.2552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2014] [Accepted: 06/04/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
After hepatitis virus infection, plasma transforming growth factor (TGF)-β increases in either the acute or chronic inflammatory microenvironment. Although TGF-β is upregulated in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma, it is one of the most potent growth inhibitors for hepatocytes. This cytokine also upregulates extracellular matrix (ECM) production of hepatic stellate cells. Therefore, TGF-β is considered to be the major factor regulating liver carcinogenesis and accelerating liver fibrosis. Smad2 and Smad3 act as the intracellular mediators of TGF-β signal transduction pathway. We have generated numerous antibodies against individual phosphorylation sites in Smad2/3, and identified 3 types of phosphorylated forms (phospho-isoforms): COOH-terminally phosphorylated Smad2/3 (pSmad2C and pSmad3C), linker phosphorylated Smad2/3 (pSmad2L and pSmad3L) and dually phosphorylated Smad2/3 (pSmad2L/C and pSmad3L/C). These Smad phospho-isoforms are categorized into 3 groups: cytostatic pSmad3C signaling, mitogenic pSmad3L signaling and invasive/fibrogenic pSmad2L/C signaling. In this review, we describe differential regulation of TGF-β/Smad signaling after acute or chronic liver injuries. In addition, we consider how chronic inflammation associated with hepatitis virus infection promotes hepatic fibrosis and carcinogenesis (fibro-carcinogenesis), focusing on alteration of Smad phospho-isoform signaling. Finally, we show reversibility of Smad phospho-isoform signaling after therapy against hepatitis virus infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katsunori Yoshida
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Osaka 573-1010, Japan
| | - Miki Murata
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Osaka 573-1010, Japan
| | - Takashi Yamaguchi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Osaka 573-1010, Japan
| | - Koichi Matsuzaki
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Osaka 573-1010, Japan
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Ji L, Xue R, Tang W, Wu W, Hu T, Liu X, Peng X, Gu J, Chen S, Zhang S. Toll like receptor 2 knock-out attenuates carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver fibrosis by downregulating MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathways. FEBS Lett 2014; 588:2095-100. [PMID: 24815695 DOI: 10.1016/j.febslet.2014.04.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2013] [Revised: 04/05/2014] [Accepted: 04/28/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Innate immune signaling associated with Toll-like receptors (TLRs) is a key pathway involved in the progression of liver fibrosis. In this study, we reported that TLR2 is required for hepatic fibrogenesis induced by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4). After CCl4 treatment, TLR2(-/-) mice had reduced liver enzyme levels, diminished collagen deposition, decreased inflammatory infiltration and impaired activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) than wild type (WT) mice. Furthermore, after CCl4 treatment, TLR2(-/-) mice demonstrated downregulated expression of profibrotic and proinflammatory genes and impaired mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) activation than WT mice. Collectively, our data indicate that TLR2 deficiency protects against CCl4-induced liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingling Ji
- Key Laboratory of Glycoconjugate Research Ministry of Public Health, Gene Research Center, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ruyi Xue
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenqing Tang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Weibin Wu
- Key Laboratory of Glycoconjugate Research Ministry of Public Health, Gene Research Center, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Tingting Hu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xijun Liu
- Key Laboratory of Glycoconjugate Research Ministry of Public Health, Gene Research Center, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaomin Peng
- Key Laboratory of Glycoconjugate Research Ministry of Public Health, Gene Research Center, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jianxin Gu
- Key Laboratory of Glycoconjugate Research Ministry of Public Health, Gene Research Center, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - She Chen
- Key Laboratory of Glycoconjugate Research Ministry of Public Health, Gene Research Center, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Si Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Glycoconjugate Research Ministry of Public Health, Gene Research Center, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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Qian H, Shi J, Fan TT, Lv J, Chen SW, Song CY, Zheng ZW, Xie WF, Chen YX. Sophocarpine attenuates liver fibrosis by inhibiting the TLR4 signaling pathway in rats. World J Gastroenterol 2014; 20:1822-1832. [PMID: 24587659 PMCID: PMC3930980 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v20.i7.1822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2013] [Revised: 11/13/2013] [Accepted: 11/30/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM: To explore the effect of sophocarpine on experimental liver fibrosis and the potential mechanism involved.
METHODS: Sophocarpine was injected intraperitoneally in two distinct rat hepatic fibrosis models induced either by dimethylnitrosamine or bile duct ligation. Masson’s trichrome staining, Sirius red staining and hepatic hydroxyproline level were used for collagen determination. Primary hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) were isolated and treated with different concentrations of sophocarpine. Real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction was used to detect the mRNA levels of fibrotic markers and cytokines. The expression of pathway proteins was measured by Western blot. The Cell Counting Kit-8 test was used to detect the proliferation rate of activated HSCs treated with a gradient concentration of sophocarpine.
RESULTS: Sophocarpine decreased serum levels of aminotransferases and total bilirubin in rats under chronic insult. Moreover, administration of sophocarpine suppressed extracellular matrix deposition and prevented the development of hepatic fibrosis. Furthermore, sophocarpine inhibited the expression of α-smooth muscle actin (SMA), interleukin (IL)-6, transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), and extracellular-related kinase (ERK) in rats. Sophocarpine also down-regulated the mRNA expression of α-SMA, collagen I, collagen III, TGF-β1, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor-α and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, and decreased protein levels of TLR4, p-ERK, p-JNK, p-P38 and p-IKK in vitro after Lipopolysaccharide induction. In addition, sophocarpine inhibited the proliferation of HSCs accompanied by a decrease in the expression of Cyclin D1. The protein level of proliferating cell nuclear antigen was decreased in activated HSCs following a gradient concentration of sophocarpine.
CONCLUSION: Sophocarpine can alleviate liver fibrosis mainly by inhibiting the TLR4 pathway. Sophocarpine may be a potential chemotherapeutic agent for chronic liver diseases.
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Xiao Y, Wang J, Chen Y, Zhou K, Wen J, Wang Y, Zhou Y, Pan W, Cai W. Up-regulation of miR-200b in biliary atresia patients accelerates proliferation and migration of hepatic stallate cells by activating PI3K/Akt signaling. Cell Signal 2014; 26:925-32. [PMID: 24412919 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2014.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2013] [Revised: 12/16/2013] [Accepted: 01/02/2014] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
An increasing body of evidence suggests that miRNAs are involved in fibrotic process of several organs including heart, lung and kidney. It has been observed recently that aberrant expression of miR-200s are associated with hepatic fibrosis. However, the role and underlying mechanism of miR-200s in hepatic fibrogenesis remains unknown. Here, we investigate the role of miR-200b in the activation of immortalized human hepatic stallate cells (HSCs), LX-2 cells. We firstly found that miR-200b significantly enhanced proliferation and migration of LX-2 cells. Secondly, our findings showed that miR-200b enhanced the phosphorylation of Akt, a downstream effector of phosphatidyl-inositol 3-Kinase (PI3K). FOG2, as the targets of fly miR-8 and human miR-200s, directly binds to p85α and inhibits the activation of the PI3K/Akt pathway. Here, we showed that FOG2 protein levels in LX-2 cells were suppressed significantly by miR-200b mimics. FOG2 knockdown by siRNAs activated the PI3K/Akt signaling, which increased cell growth and migration that mimicked the effect of miR-200b. Conversely, LY294002, a highly selective inhibitor of PI3K, could block phosphorylation of Akt and effect of miR-200b. In addition, we showed that miR-200b enhanced the expression of matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2), which may increase the migration of LX-2 cells. Finally, our results indicated that the expression of miR-200b was unregulated in the biliary atresia (BA) and associated with liver fibrotic progression. These data suggest a potential mechanism for Akt activation through FOG2 down-regulation by miR-200b that can lead to HSC growth and migration. In view of the putative pathogenic role of miR-200b in HSCs, miR-200b may constitute a potential marker for HSC activation and liver fibrosis progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongtao Xiao
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Xin Hua Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Institute of Pediatric Research, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, China
| | - Jun Wang
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Xin Hua Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, China
| | - Yingwei Chen
- Shanghai Institute of Pediatric Research, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, China
| | - Kejun Zhou
- Shanghai Institute of Pediatric Research, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, China
| | - Jie Wen
- Shanghai Institute of Pediatric Research, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, China
| | - Yang Wang
- Shanghai Institute of Pediatric Research, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, China
| | - Ying Zhou
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Xin Hua Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, China
| | - Weihua Pan
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Xin Hua Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, China
| | - Wei Cai
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Xin Hua Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Institute of Pediatric Research, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, China.
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Fang L, Zhan S, Huang C, Cheng X, Lv X, Si H, Li J. TRPM7 channel regulates PDGF-BB-induced proliferation of hepatic stellate cells via PI3K and ERK pathways. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2013; 272:713-25. [PMID: 23958495 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2013.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2013] [Revised: 07/22/2013] [Accepted: 08/08/2013] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
TRPM7, a non-selective cation channel of the TRP channel superfamily, is implicated in diverse physiological and pathological processes including cell proliferation. Recently, TRPM7 has been reported in hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). Here, we investigated the contribution role of TRPM7 in activated HSC-T6 cell (a rat hepatic stellate cell line) proliferation. TRPM7 mRNA and protein were measured by RT-PCR and Western blot in rat model of liver fibrosis in vivo and PDGF-BB-activated HSC-T6 cells in vitro. Both mRNA and protein of TRPM7 were dramatically increased in CCl4-treated rat livers. Stimulation of HSC-T6 cells with PDGF-BB resulted in a time-dependent increase of TRPM7 mRNA and protein. However, PDGF-BB-induced HSC-T6 cell proliferation was inhibited by non-specific TRPM7 blocker 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate (2-APB) or synthetic siRNA targeting TRPM7, and this was accompanied by downregulation of cell cycle proteins, cyclin D1, PCNA and CDK4. Blockade of TRPM7 channels also attenuated PDGF-BB induced expression of myofibroblast markers as measured by the induction of α-SMA and Col1α1. Furthermore, the phosphorylation of ERK and AKT, associated with cell proliferation, decreased in TRPM7 deficient HSC-T6 cells. These observations suggested that TRPM7 channels contribute to perpetuated fibroblast activation and proliferation of PDGF-BB induced HSC-T6 cells via the activation of ERK and PI3K pathways. Therefore, TRPM7 may constitute a useful target for the treatment of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Fang
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Mei Shan Road, Hefei, Anhui Province 230032, China; Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University, Mei Shan Road, Hefei, Anhui Province 230032, China.
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Sun Y, Tang S, Jin X, Zhang C, Zhao W, Xiao X. Opposite effects of JNK and p38 MAPK signaling pathways on furazolidone-stimulated S phase cell cycle arrest of human hepatoblastoma cell line. MUTATION RESEARCH-GENETIC TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL MUTAGENESIS 2013; 755:24-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mrgentox.2013.04.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2012] [Revised: 03/30/2013] [Accepted: 04/27/2013] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
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MAPK Signal Transduction Pathway Regulation: A Novel Mechanism of Rat HSC-T6 Cell Apoptosis Induced by FUZHENGHUAYU Tablet. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2013; 2013:368103. [PMID: 23762126 PMCID: PMC3670522 DOI: 10.1155/2013/368103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2012] [Revised: 04/09/2013] [Accepted: 04/09/2013] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
FUZHENGHUAYU Tablets have been widely used in the treatment of liver fibrosis in China. Here, we investigate the apoptotic effect of FUZHENGHUAYU Tablet in rat liver stellate cell line HSC-T6. HSC-T6 cells were incubated with control serum or drug serum from rats fed with 0.9% NaCl or FUZHENGHUAYU Tablet, respectively. Cells exposed to drug serum showed higher proportions of early and late apoptotic cells than controls. The mRNA levels of collagens I and III, TGF-β1 and α-SMA were reduced by drug serum compared to control serum. Differentially expressed mRNAs and miRNAs were analyzed by microarray and sequencing, respectively. We identified 334 differentially expressed mRNAs and also 60 GOs and two pathways related to the mRNAs. Seventy-five differentially expressed miRNAs were down-regulated by drug serum and 1963 target genes were predicted. 134 GOs up-regulated in drug serum group were linked to miRNA targets, and drug serum also regulated 43 miRNA signal transduction pathways. Protein levels were evaluated by Western blot. Drug serum down-regulated (phospho-SAPK/JNK)/(SAPK/JNK) and up-regulated phospho-p38/p38 ratios. The study showed that FUZHENGHUAYU Tablet induced apoptosis in rat HSC-T6 cells possibly in part by activating p38 and inhibiting SAPK/JNK.
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Song YF, Lü ZG, Xu LM. [Salvianolic acid B inhibits ERK signal transduction pathway activated by transforming growth factor-β1 in rat hepatic stellate cells]. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 10:454-61. [PMID: 22500720 DOI: 10.3736/jcim20120415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the effects of salvianolic acid B (SA-B) on extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) signal transduction pathway activated by transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) in rat hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). METHODS HSCs were isolated from male Sprague-Dawley rats by in situ perfusion and Nycodenz density-gradient centrifugation method. TGF-β1 and SA-B were directly added to the serum-free medium of HSCs. Total and phosphorylated ERK, MEK, Raf and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and type I collagen were assayed by Western blotting. RESULTS Phosphorylation of MEK in HSCs with or without TGF-β1 was inhibited by SA-B; however, phosphorylation of Raf in HSCs with or without TGF-β1 was not inhibited by SA-B. Expression of α-SMA in HSCs with TGF-β1 was inhibited by SA-B. Combination of SA-B and the inhibitors of ERK (PD98059) can effectively inhibit the expression of α-SMA. SA-B also inhibited synthesization of type I collagen in HSCs with or without TGF-β1. CONCLUSION The action point of SA-B inhibiting ERK signaling induced by TGF-β1 in HSCs is the inhibition of the phosphorylation of MEK. SA-B reduces the increase of expression of α-SMA and protein synthesization of type I collagen induced by TGF-β1 by means of inhibiting ERK signaling in activated HSCs of rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-fang Song
- Department of Liver Cirrhosis, Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
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Up-regulation of RACK1 by TGF-β1 promotes hepatic fibrosis in mice. PLoS One 2013; 8:e60115. [PMID: 23555900 PMCID: PMC3612079 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0060115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2012] [Accepted: 02/21/2013] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis represents the consequences of a sustained wound healing response to chronic liver injury, and activation of quiescent hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) into a myofibroblast-like phenotype is considered as the central event of liver fibrosis. RACK1, the receptor for activated C-kinase 1, is a classical scaffold protein implicated in numerous signaling pathways and cellular processes; however, the role of RACK1 in liver fibrosis is little defined. Herein, we report that RACK1 is up-regulated in activated HSCs in transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1)-dependent manner both in vitro and in vivo, and TGF-β1 stimulates the expression of RACK1 through NF-κB signaling. Moreover, RACK1 promotes TGF-β1 and platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-mediated activation of pro-fibrogenic pathways as well as the differentiation, proliferation and migration of HSCs. Depletion of RACK1 suppresses the progression of TAA-induced liver fibrosis in vivo. In addition, the expression of RACK1 in fibrogenic cells also positively correlates well with the stage of liver fibrosis in clinical cases. Our results suggest RACK1 as a downstream target gene of TGF-β1 involved in the modulation of liver fibrosis progression in vitro and in vivo, and propose a strategy to target RACK1 for liver fibrosis treatment.
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Reichenbach V, Fernández-Varo G, Casals G, Oró D, Ros J, Melgar-Lesmes P, Weiskirchen R, Morales-Ruiz M, Jiménez W. Adenoviral dominant-negative soluble PDGFRβ improves hepatic collagen, systemic hemodynamics, and portal pressure in fibrotic rats. J Hepatol 2012; 57:967-73. [PMID: 22820479 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2012.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2012] [Revised: 07/04/2012] [Accepted: 07/08/2012] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) is the most potent stimulus for proliferation and migration of stellate cells. PDGF receptor β (PDGFRβ) expression is an important phenotypic change in myofibroblastic cells that mediates proliferation and chemotaxis. Here we analyzed the relationship between PDGFRβ expression, hemodynamic deterioration, and fibrosis in CCl(4)-treated rats. Thereafter, we investigated the effects produced by an adenovirus encoding a dominant-negative soluble PDGFRβ (sPDGFRβ) on hemodynamic parameters, PDGFRβ signaling pathway, and fibrosis. METHODS Mean arterial pressure, portal pressure, PDGFRβ mRNA expression, and hepatic collagen were assessed in 6 controls and 21 rats induced to hepatic fibrosis/cirrhosis. Next, 30 fibrotic rats were randomized into three groups receiving iv saline and an adenovirus encoding for sPDGFRβ or β-galactosidase. After 7days, mean arterial pressure, portal pressure, serum sPDGFRβ, and hepatic collagen were measured. RESULTS CCl(4)-treated animals for 18weeks showed a significantly higher increase in PDGFRβ mRNA compared to those treated for 13weeks and control rats. In CCl(4)-treated rats, the fibrous tissue area ranged from moderate to severe fibrosis. A direct relationship between the degree of fibrosis, hemodynamic changes, and PDGFRβ expression was observed. Fibrotic rats transduced with the adenovirus encoding sPDGFRβ showed increased mean arterial pressure, decreased portal pressure, lower activation of the PDGFRβ signaling pathway, and reduced hepatic collagen than fibrotic rats receiving β-galactosidase or saline. CONCLUSIONS PDGFRβ activation closely correlates with hemodynamic disorders and increased fibrosis in CCl(4)-treated rats. Adenoviral dominant negative soluble PDGFRβ improved fibrosis. As a result, the hemodynamic abnormalities were ameliorated.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Reichenbach
- Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics Service, Hospital Clínic Provincial de Barcelona, IDIBAPS, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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Woodhoo A, Iruarrizaga-Lejarreta M, Beraza N, García-Rodríguez J, Embade N, Fernández-Ramos D, Matinez-Lopez N, Gutiérrez V, Arteta B, Caballeria J, Lu S, Mato J, Varela-Rey M, Martinez-Chantar M. Human antigen R contributes to hepatic stellate cell activation and liver fibrosis. Hepatology 2012; 56:1870-82. [PMID: 22576182 PMCID: PMC3433583 DOI: 10.1002/hep.25828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2012] [Accepted: 04/28/2012] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) play a major role in the control of messenger RNA (mRNA) turnover and translation rates. We examined the role of the RBP, human antigen R (HuR), during cholestatic liver injury and hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation. HuR silencing attenuated fibrosis development in vivo after BDL, reducing liver damage, oxidative stress, inflammation, and collagen and alpha smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) expression. HuR expression increased in activated HSCs from bile duct ligation mice and during HSC activation in vitro, and HuR silencing markedly reduced HSC activation. HuR regulated platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-induced proliferation and migration and controlled the expression of several mRNAs involved in these processes (e.g., Actin, matrix metalloproteinase 9, and cyclin D1 and B1). These functions of HuR were linked to its abundance and cytoplasmic localization, controlled by PDGF, by extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERK) and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase activation as well as ERK/LKB1 (liver kinase B1) activation, respectively. More important, we identified the tumor suppressor, LKB1, as a novel downstream target of PDGF-induced ERK activation in HSCs. HuR also controlled transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β)-induced profibrogenic actions by regulating the expression of TGF-β, α-SMA, and p21. This was likely the result of an increased cytoplasmic localization of HuR, controlled by TGF-β-induced p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase activation. Finally, we found that HuR and LKB1 (Ser428) levels were highly expressed in activated HSCs in human cirrhotic samples. CONCLUSION Our results show that HuR is important for the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis development in the cholestatic injury model, for HSC activation, and for the response of activated HSC to PDGF and TGF-β.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. Woodhoo
- CIC bioGUNE, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (Ciberehd), Technology Park of Bizkaia, 48160-Derio, Bizkaia, Spain
| | - M. Iruarrizaga-Lejarreta
- CIC bioGUNE, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (Ciberehd), Technology Park of Bizkaia, 48160-Derio, Bizkaia, Spain
| | - N. Beraza
- CIC bioGUNE, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (Ciberehd), Technology Park of Bizkaia, 48160-Derio, Bizkaia, Spain
| | - J.L. García-Rodríguez
- CIC bioGUNE, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (Ciberehd), Technology Park of Bizkaia, 48160-Derio, Bizkaia, Spain
| | - N. Embade
- CIC bioGUNE, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (Ciberehd), Technology Park of Bizkaia, 48160-Derio, Bizkaia, Spain
| | - D. Fernández-Ramos
- CIC bioGUNE, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (Ciberehd), Technology Park of Bizkaia, 48160-Derio, Bizkaia, Spain
| | - N. Matinez-Lopez
- CIC bioGUNE, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (Ciberehd), Technology Park of Bizkaia, 48160-Derio, Bizkaia, Spain
| | - Virginia Gutiérrez
- CIC bioGUNE, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (Ciberehd), Technology Park of Bizkaia, 48160-Derio, Bizkaia, Spain
| | - B. Arteta
- School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of the Basque Country, UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain
| | - J. Caballeria
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic, Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, CIBER de Enfermedades Hepaticas y Digestivas (Ciberehd), Barcelona, Spain
| | - S.C. Lu
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic, Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, CIBER de Enfermedades Hepaticas y Digestivas (Ciberehd), Barcelona, Spain
| | - J.M. Mato
- CIC bioGUNE, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (Ciberehd), Technology Park of Bizkaia, 48160-Derio, Bizkaia, Spain
| | - M. Varela-Rey
- CIC bioGUNE, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (Ciberehd), Technology Park of Bizkaia, 48160-Derio, Bizkaia, Spain
| | - M.L. Martinez-Chantar
- CIC bioGUNE, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (Ciberehd), Technology Park of Bizkaia, 48160-Derio, Bizkaia, Spain
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Bian EB, Huang C, Wang H, Wu BM, Zhang L, Lv XW, Li J. DNA methylation: new therapeutic implications for hepatic fibrosis. Cell Signal 2012; 25:355-8. [PMID: 23085259 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2012.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2012] [Revised: 10/11/2012] [Accepted: 10/12/2012] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
DNA methylation refers to a heritable alteration in the pattern of gene expression that is regulated by a mechanism specifically not owing to changes in the primary nucleotide sequence. The transcriptional silencing caused by DNA methylation affects genes involved in the main cellular pathways: cell cycle control, Ras signaling, apoptosis, and detoxification. Recent studies have shown that methylation modifications orchestrate the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) characterized by excessive accumulation of extracellular matrices (ECMs). The activation of HSCs is mediated by multiple signal transduction pathways and is generally regarded as the major ECM producer responsible for liver fibrosis. In addition, aberrant methylation of specific gene involved in the activation of multiple signal transduction pathways in liver fibrosis. The aim of this review is to compile recent information on aberrant DNA methylation in hepatic fibrosis and to highlight key genes and molecular pathways in hepatic fibrosis formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Er-Bao Bian
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
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Bian EB, Huang C, Ma TT, Tao H, Zhang H, Cheng C, Lv XW, Li J. DNMT1-mediated PTEN hypermethylation confers hepatic stellate cell activation and liver fibrogenesis in rats. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2012; 264:13-22. [PMID: 22841775 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2012.06.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2012] [Revised: 06/06/2012] [Accepted: 06/29/2012] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation is an essential event during liver fibrogenesis. Phosphatase and tension homolog deleted on chromosome 10 (PTEN), a tumor suppressor, is a negative regulator of this process. PTEN promoter hypermethylation is a major epigenetic silencing mechanism in tumors. The present study aimed to investigate whether PTEN promoter methylation was involved in HSC activation and liver fibrosis. Treatment of activated HSCs with the DNA methylation inhibitor 5-aza-2'-deoxycytidine (5-azadC) decreased aberrant hypermethylation of the PTEN gene promoter and prevented the loss of PTEN expression that occurred during HSC activation. Silencing DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1) gene also decreased the PTEN gene promoter methylation and upregulated the PTEN gene expression in activated HSC-T6 cells. In addition, knockdown of DNMT1 inhibited the activation of both ERK and AKT pathways in HSC-T6 cells. These results suggest that DNMT1-mediated PTEN hypermethylation caused the loss of PTEN expression, followed by the activation of the PI3K/AKT and ERK pathways, resulting in HSC activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Er-Bao Bian
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
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Zhang XP, Zhang F, Zhang ZL, Ma J, Kong DS, Ni GX, Wang AY, Chen WX, Lu Y, Zheng SZ. Acupuncture combined with curcumin disrupts platelet-derived growth factor β receptor/extracellular signal-regulated kinase signalling and stimulates extracellular matrix degradation in carbon tetrachloride-induced hepatic fibrosis in rats. Acupunct Med 2012; 30:324-30. [PMID: 22763371 DOI: 10.1136/acupmed-2012-010167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acupuncture treatment has been increasingly used to treat chronic liver diseases. We previously reported that acupuncture combined with curcumin, a natural antifibrotic compound, could remarkably attenuate liver fibrosis in chemically intoxicated rats, but the underlying molecular mechanisms are poorly understood. The present study was aimed at investigating the effects of acupuncture combined with curcumin on platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) signalling and extracellular matrix (ECM) regulation in the fibrotic liver. METHODS A total of 60 Sprague-Dawley male rats were randomly divided into control, model, sham, acupuncture, curcumin and combination treatment groups. During the establishment of fibrosis using carbon tetrachloride (CCl(4)), acupuncture at LR3, LR14, BL18 and ST36 and/or curcumin treatment by mouth were performed simultaneously. After treatment, serum PDGF levels were measured. Protein and mRNA expression of key effectors in PDGF pathway and fibrinolysis in the liver was determined. RESULTS Acupuncture combined with curcumin potently reduced serum PDGF levels and selectively disrupted the PDGF-βR/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) cascade. Combination treatment also significantly repressed expression of connective tissue growth factor and upregulated expression of matrix metalloproteinase-9, promoting fibrinolysis in the fibrotic liver. CONCLUSIONS The beneficial effects of acupuncture and its combination with curcumin could be attributed to the disruption of PDGF-βR/ERK pathway and stimulated ECM degradation in the fibrotic liver. Acupuncture treatment significantly enhanced curcumin effects at the molecular level. These findings may provide molecular insights into the potential of acupuncture combined with curcumin for prevention of hepatic fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Ping Zhang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
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Imatinib mesylate improves liver regeneration and attenuates liver fibrogenesis in CCL4-treated mice. J Gastrointest Surg 2012; 16:361-9. [PMID: 22068968 DOI: 10.1007/s11605-011-1764-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2011] [Accepted: 10/16/2011] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUNDS Imatinib mesylate (STI-571), a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, has previously been demonstrated to attenuate liver fibrogenesis through inhibition of the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) in CCL(4)-treated rat models. AIMS This study aimed to further evaluate the role of STI-571 in liver regeneration. MATERIALS AND METHODS All animals were divided into four groups, and mice were treated with or without CCL(4) and STI-571 (n = 6 for each group). RESULTS Activated cultured HSCs in vitro with STI-571 administration showed increased apoptosis and reduced proliferation, as determined by flow cytometric analysis, 3-(4, 5-cimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide assay, and confocal microscopy. STI-571 treatment attenuated liver fibrosis in vivo, as was evident in the results of histology, mRNA level, and expression analysis of smooth muscle actin and type I collagen. Mice treated with STI-571 had increased liver weight ratio and the improvement in liver regeneration was compatible with the change of serum interleukin 6 levels (p < 0.05). Further, increased apoptosis and a reduced proliferation were observed in the CCL(4)-treated mice after STI-571 treatment based on the immunohistochemical staining of Annexin V, phosphorylated STAT3, and PCNA. CONCLUSION STI-571 treatment effectively attenuated liver fibrogenesis and improved in liver regeneration in vivo and induced apoptosis in HSCs both in vitro and in vivo.
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Abstract
Liver fibrosis is the result of the entire organism responding to a chronic injury. Every cell type in the liver contributes to the fibrosis. This paper first discusses key intracellular signaling pathways that are induced during liver fibrosis. The paper then examines the effects of these signaling pathways on the major cell types in the liver. This will provide insights into the molecular pathophysiology of liver fibrosis and should identify therapeutic targets.
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Maubach G, Lim MCC, Chen J, Yang H, Zhuo L. miRNA studies in in vitro and in vivo activated hepatic stellate cells. World J Gastroenterol 2011. [PMID: 21734783 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v17.i22.] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/29/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM To understand which and how different miRNAs are implicated in the process of hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation. METHODS We used microarrays to examine the differential expression of miRNAs during in vitro activation of primary HSCs (pHSCs). The transcriptome changes upon stable transfection of rno-miR-146a into an HSC cell line were studied using cDNA microarrays. Selected differentially regulated miRNAs were investigated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction during in vivo HSC activation. The effect of miRNA mimics and inhibitor on the in vitro activation of pHSCs was also evaluated. RESULTS We found that 16 miRNAs were upregulated and 26 were downregulated significantly in 10-d in vitro activated pHSCs in comparison to quiescent pHSCs. Overexpression of rno-miR-146a was characterized by marked upregulation of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-3, which is implicated in the regulation of tumor necrosis factor-α activity. Differences in the regulation of selected miRNAs were observed comparing in vitro and in vivo HSC activation. Treatment with miR-26a and 29a mimics, and miR-214 inhibitor during in vitro activation of pHSCs induced significant downregulation of collagen type I transcription. CONCLUSION Our results emphasize the different regulation of miRNAs in in vitro and in vivo activated pHSCs. We also showed that miR-26a, 29a and 214 are involved in the regulation of collagen type I mRNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gunter Maubach
- Institute of Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, 31 Biopolis Way, The Nanos #04-01, Singapore 138669, Singapore
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Maubach G, Lim MCC, Chen J, Yang H, Zhuo L. miRNA studies in in vitro and in vivo activated hepatic stellate cells. World J Gastroenterol 2011; 17:2748-73. [PMID: 21734783 PMCID: PMC3122263 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v17.i22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2010] [Revised: 09/14/2010] [Accepted: 09/21/2010] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM To understand which and how different miRNAs are implicated in the process of hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation. METHODS We used microarrays to examine the differential expression of miRNAs during in vitro activation of primary HSCs (pHSCs). The transcriptome changes upon stable transfection of rno-miR-146a into an HSC cell line were studied using cDNA microarrays. Selected differentially regulated miRNAs were investigated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction during in vivo HSC activation. The effect of miRNA mimics and inhibitor on the in vitro activation of pHSCs was also evaluated. RESULTS We found that 16 miRNAs were upregulated and 26 were downregulated significantly in 10-d in vitro activated pHSCs in comparison to quiescent pHSCs. Overexpression of rno-miR-146a was characterized by marked upregulation of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-3, which is implicated in the regulation of tumor necrosis factor-α activity. Differences in the regulation of selected miRNAs were observed comparing in vitro and in vivo HSC activation. Treatment with miR-26a and 29a mimics, and miR-214 inhibitor during in vitro activation of pHSCs induced significant downregulation of collagen type I transcription. CONCLUSION Our results emphasize the different regulation of miRNAs in in vitro and in vivo activated pHSCs. We also showed that miR-26a, 29a and 214 are involved in the regulation of collagen type I mRNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gunter Maubach
- Institute of Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, 31 Biopolis Way, The Nanos #04-01, Singapore 138669, Singapore
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