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Wilhelmsen I, Combriat T, Dalmao-Fernandez A, Stokowiec J, Wang C, Olsen PA, Wik JA, Boichuk Y, Aizenshtadt A, Krauss S. The effects of TGF-β-induced activation and starvation of vitamin A and palmitic acid on human stem cell-derived hepatic stellate cells. Stem Cell Res Ther 2024; 15:223. [PMID: 39044210 PMCID: PMC11267759 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-024-03852-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 07/14/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatic stellate cells (HSC) have numerous critical roles in liver function and homeostasis, while they are also known for their importance during liver injury and fibrosis. There is therefore a need for relevant in vitro human HSC models to fill current knowledge gaps. In particular, the roles of vitamin A (VA), lipid droplets (LDs), and energy metabolism in human HSC activation are poorly understood. METHODS In this study, human pluripotent stem cell-derived HSCs (scHSCs), benchmarked to human primary HSC, were exposed to 48-hour starvation of retinol (ROL) and palmitic acid (PA) in the presence or absence of the potent HSC activator TGF-β. The interventions were studied by an extensive set of phenotypic and functional analyses, including transcriptomic analysis, measurement of activation-related proteins and cytokines, VA- and LD storage, and cell energy metabolism. RESULTS The results show that though the starvation of ROL and PA alone did not induce scHSC activation, the starvation amplified the TGF-β-induced activation-related transcriptome. However, TGF-β-induced activation alone did not lead to a reduction in VA or LD stores. Additionally, reduced glycolysis and increased mitochondrial fission were observed in response to TGF-β. CONCLUSIONS scHSCs are robust models for activation studies. The loss of VA and LDs is not sufficient for scHSC activation in vitro, but may amplify the TGF-β-induced activation response. Collectively, our work provides an extensive framework for studying human HSCs in healthy and diseased conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingrid Wilhelmsen
- Department of Immunology and Transfusion Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, P.O. Box 4950, Nydalen, Oslo, 0424, Norway.
- Hybrid Technology Hub - Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1110, Blindern, Oslo, 0317, Norway.
| | - Thomas Combriat
- Hybrid Technology Hub - Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1110, Blindern, Oslo, 0317, Norway
| | - Andrea Dalmao-Fernandez
- Department of Immunology and Transfusion Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, P.O. Box 4950, Nydalen, Oslo, 0424, Norway
- Hybrid Technology Hub - Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1110, Blindern, Oslo, 0317, Norway
- Section for Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Department of Pharmacy, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1068, Blindern, Oslo, 0316, Norway
| | - Justyna Stokowiec
- Hybrid Technology Hub - Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1110, Blindern, Oslo, 0317, Norway
| | - Chencheng Wang
- Hybrid Technology Hub - Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1110, Blindern, Oslo, 0317, Norway
- Department of Transplantation Medicine, Institute for Surgical Research, Oslo University Hospital, P.O. Box 4950, Nydalen, Oslo, 0424, Norway
| | - Petter Angell Olsen
- Department of Immunology and Transfusion Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, P.O. Box 4950, Nydalen, Oslo, 0424, Norway
- Hybrid Technology Hub - Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1110, Blindern, Oslo, 0317, Norway
| | - Jonas Aakre Wik
- Department of Immunology and Transfusion Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, P.O. Box 4950, Nydalen, Oslo, 0424, Norway
- Hybrid Technology Hub - Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1110, Blindern, Oslo, 0317, Norway
| | - Yuliia Boichuk
- Hybrid Technology Hub - Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1110, Blindern, Oslo, 0317, Norway
| | - Aleksandra Aizenshtadt
- Department of Immunology and Transfusion Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, P.O. Box 4950, Nydalen, Oslo, 0424, Norway
- Hybrid Technology Hub - Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1110, Blindern, Oslo, 0317, Norway
| | - Stefan Krauss
- Department of Immunology and Transfusion Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, P.O. Box 4950, Nydalen, Oslo, 0424, Norway
- Hybrid Technology Hub - Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1110, Blindern, Oslo, 0317, Norway
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Sun L, Zheng M, Gao Y, Brigstock DR, Gao R. Retinoic acid signaling pathway in pancreatic stellate cells: Insight into the anti-fibrotic effect and mechanism. Eur J Pharmacol 2024; 967:176374. [PMID: 38309676 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2024.176374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/05/2024]
Abstract
Pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) are activated following loss of cytoplasmic vitamin A (retinol)-containing lipid droplets, which is a key event in the process of fibrogenesis of chronic pancreatitis (CP) and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDCA). PSCs are the major source of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) that produce stroma to induce PDAC cancer cell growth, invasion, and metastasis. As an active metabolite of retinol, retinoic acid (RA) can regulate target gene expression in PSCs through its nuclear receptor complex (RAR/RXR or RXR/RXR) or transcriptional intermediary factor. Additionally, RA also has extranuclear and non-transcriptional effects. In vitro studies have shown that RA induces PSC deactivation which reduces extracellular matrix production through multiple modes of action, such as inhibiting TβRⅡ, PDGFRβ, β-catenin and Wnt production, downregulating ERK1/2 and JNK phosphorylation and suppressing active TGF-β1 release. RA alone or in combination with other reagents have been demonstrated to have an effective anti-fibrotic effect on cerulein-induced mouse CP models in vivo studies. Clinical trial data have shown that repurposing all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) as a stromal-targeting agent for human pancreatic cancer is safe and tolerable, suggesting the possibility of using RA for the treatment of CP and PDCA in humans. This review focuses on RA signaling pathways in PSCs and the effects and mechanisms of RA in PSC-mediated fibrogenesis as well as the anti-fibrotic and anti-tumor effects of RA targeting PSCs or CAFs in vitro and in vivo, highlighting the potential therapies of RA against CP and PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Sun
- Department of Hepatic Biliary Pancreatic Medicine, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China; Department of Pathology, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Meifang Zheng
- Department of Hepatic Biliary Pancreatic Medicine, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China; Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yanhang Gao
- Department of Hepatic Biliary Pancreatic Medicine, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China; Department of Infectious Diseases, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China.
| | - David R Brigstock
- The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Runping Gao
- Department of Hepatic Biliary Pancreatic Medicine, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China; Department of Infectious Diseases, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China.
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Qi J, Ping D, Sun X, Huang K, Peng Y, Liu C. A herbal product inhibits carbon tetrachloride-induced liver fibrosis by suppressing the epidermal growth factor receptor signaling pathway. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 311:116419. [PMID: 37003405 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.116419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2023] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Fuzheng Huayu formula (FZHY), composed of Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge, Cordyceps sinensis, the seed of Prunus persica (L.) Batsch, the pollen of Pinus massoniana Lamb, Gynostemma pentaphyllum (Thunb.) Makino and the fruit of Schisandra chinensis (Turcz.) Baill, is a Chinese herbal compound with demonstrated clinical benefits in liver fibrosis (LF). However, its potential mechanism and molecular targets remain to be elucidated. AIM OF THE STUDY This study was designed to evaluate the anti-fibrotic role of FZHY in hepatic fibrosis and to elucidate the potential mechanisms. MATERIALS AND METHODS Network pharmacology was assayed to identify the interrelationships among compounds of FZHY, potential targets and putative pathways on anti-LF. Then the core pharmaceutical target for FZHY against LF was verified by serum proteomic analysis. Further in vivo and in vitro assays were performed to verify the prediction of the pharmaceutical network. RESULTS The network pharmacology analysis revealed that a total of 175 FZHY-LF crossover proteins were filtered into a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network complex and designated as the potential targets of FZHY against LF, and the Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) signaling pathway was further explored according to the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis. Then analytical studies were validated by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced model in vivo. We found FZHY could attenuate CCl4-induced LF, especially decrease p-EGFR expression in α-Smooth Muscle Actin (α-SMA)-positive hepatic stellate cell (HSC) and inhibit the downstream of the EGFR signaling pathway, especially Extracellular Regulated Protein Kinases (ERK) signaling pathway in liver tissue. We further demonstrate that FZHY could inhibit Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF)-induced HSC activation, as well as the expression of p-EGFR and the key protein of the ERK signaling pathway. CONCLUSIONS FZHY has a good effect against CCl4-induced LF. The action mechanism was associated with the down-regulation of the EGFR signaling pathway in activated HSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingshu Qi
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Dabing Ping
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Xin Sun
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Kai Huang
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Yuan Peng
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China.
| | - Chenghai Liu
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China; Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases, Ministry of Education, Shanghai, 201203, China.
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Shao C, Xu H, Sun X, Huang Y, Guo W, He Y, Ye L, Wang Z, Huang J, Liang X, Zhang J. New Perspectives on Chinese Medicine in Treating Hepatic Fibrosis: Lipid Droplets in Hepatic Stellate Cells. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF CHINESE MEDICINE 2023; 51:1413-1429. [PMID: 37429706 DOI: 10.1142/s0192415x23500647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/12/2023]
Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis (HF) is a wound healing response featuring excessive deposition of the extracellular matrix (ECM) and activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) that occurs during chronic liver injury. As an initial stage of various liver diseases, HF is a reversible pathological process that, if left unchecked, can escalate into cirrhosis, liver failure, and liver cancer. HF is a life-threatening disease presenting morbidity and mortality challenges to healthcare systems worldwide. There is no specific and effective anti-HF therapy, and the toxic side effects of the available drugs also impose a heavy financial burden on patients. Therefore, it is significant to study the pathogenesis of HF and explore effective prevention and treatment measures. Formerly called adipocytes, or fat storage cells, HSCs regulate liver growth, immunity, and inflammation, as well as energy and nutrient homeostasis. HSCs in a quiescent state do not proliferate and store abundant lipid droplets (LDs). Catabolism of LDs is characteristic of the activation of HSCs and morphological transdifferentiation of cells into contractile and proliferative myofibroblasts, resulting in the deposition of ECM and the development of HF. Recent studies have revealed that various Chinese medicines (e.g., Artemisia annua, turmeric, Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi, etc.) are able to effectively reduce the degradation of LDs in HSCs. Therefore, this study takes the modification of LDs in HSCs as an entry point to elaborate on the process of Chinese medicine intervening in the loss of LDs in HSCs and the mechanism of action for the treatment of HF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang Shao
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hangzhou 310053, P. R. China
| | - Huihui Xu
- The First College of Clinical Medicine, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, P. R. China
| | - Xiguang Sun
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hangzhou 310053, P. R. China
| | - Yan Huang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hangzhou 310053, P. R. China
| | - Wenqin Guo
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hangzhou 310053, P. R. China
| | - Yi He
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hangzhou 310053, P. R. China
| | - Linmao Ye
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hangzhou 310053, P. R. China
| | - Zhili Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hangzhou 310053, P. R. China
| | - Jiaxin Huang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hangzhou 310053, P. R. China
| | - Xiaofan Liang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hangzhou 310053, P. R. China
| | - Junjie Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hangzhou 310053, P. R. China
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Ping DB, Sun X, Peng Y, Liu CH. Cyp4a12-mediated retinol metabolism in stellate cells is the antihepatic fibrosis mechanism of the Chinese medicine Fuzheng Huayu recipe. Chin Med 2023; 18:51. [PMID: 37161575 PMCID: PMC10170698 DOI: 10.1186/s13020-023-00754-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), which contain multiple retinol-containing lipid droplets, are important profibrotic cells in liver fibrosis. Under Cyp4a12a/b oxidation, HSC activation was accompanied by the downregulation of genes involved in retinol metabolism, inducing RAE-1 production. By eliminating activated HSCs, NK cells expressing the activating receptor NKG2D are recruited to alleviate fibrosis. FZHY was found to significantly reduce the severity of liver fibrosis by inhibiting the activation and proliferation of HSCs. The molecular processes that govern retinol metabolism, on the other hand, are largely unexplored. This study focused on the regulation of Cyp4a12a/b by FZHY to elucidate the antifibrotic molecular mechanisms underlying the effect of FZHY on retinol metabolism. METHODS To investigate mechanisms and altered pathways of FZHY against carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver fibrosis based on transcriptomics data. Bioinformatics analysis was used to screen its pharmacological targets. The predicted targets were confirmed by a series of in vitro and in vivo experiments, including mass spectrometry, in situ hybridization, immunofluorescence assays and real-time PCR. Then, the results were further characterized by recombinant adenovirus vectors that were constructed and transfected into the cultured primary HSCs. RESULTS Transcriptomics revealed that Cyp4a12a/b is nearly completely lost in liver fibrosis, and these effects might be partially reversed by FZHY therapy recovery. In vitro and in vivo studies indicated that Cyp4a12a/b deletion disrupted retinol metabolism and lowered Rae-1 expression. Activated HSCs successfully escape recognition and elimination by natural killer (NK) cells as a result of reduced Rae-1. Notablely, we discovered that FZHY may restore the Cyp4a12a/b capability, allowing the recovery of the cytotoxic function of NK cells against HSCs, and thereby reducing hepatic fibrosis by suppressing HSC activation. CONCLUSION Our findings revealed a new role for Cyp4a in retinol metabolism in the development of hepatic fibrosis, and they highlight Cyp4a12/Rae-1 signals as possible therapeutic targets for antifibrotic medicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Da-Bing Ping
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital affiliated with Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Xin Sun
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Yuan Peng
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital affiliated with Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, China.
| | - Cheng-Hai Liu
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital affiliated with Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, China.
- Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases, Ministry of Education, 528 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, China.
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Yang M, Vanderwert E, Kimchi ET, Staveley-O'Carroll KF, Li G. The Important Roles of Natural Killer Cells in Liver Fibrosis. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11051391. [PMID: 37239062 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11051391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis accompanies the development of various chronic liver diseases and promotes their progression. It is characterized by the abnormal accumulation of extracellular matrix proteins (ECM) and impaired ECM degradation. Activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are the major cellular source of ECM-producing myofibroblasts. If liver fibrosis is uncontrolled, it may lead to cirrhosis and even liver cancer, primarily hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Natural killer (NK) cells are a key component of innate immunity and have miscellaneous roles in liver health and disease. Accumulating evidence shows that NK cells play dual roles in the development and progression of liver fibrosis, including profibrotic and anti-fibrotic functions. Regulating NK cells can suppress the activation of HSCs and improve their cytotoxicity against activated HSCs or myofibroblasts to reverse liver fibrosis. Cells such as regulatory T cells (Tregs) and molecules such as prostaglandin E receptor 3 (EP3) can regulate the cytotoxic function of NK cells. In addition, treatments such as alcohol dehydrogenase 3 (ADH3) inhibitors, microRNAs, natural killer group 2, member D (NKG2D) activators, and natural products can enhance NK cell function to inhibit liver fibrosis. In this review, we summarized the cellular and molecular factors that affect the interaction of NK cells with HSCs, as well as the treatments that regulate NK cell function against liver fibrosis. Despite a lot of information about NK cells and their interaction with HSCs, our current knowledge is still insufficient to explain the complex crosstalk between these cells and hepatocytes, liver sinusoidal endothelial cells, Kupffer cells, B cells, and T cells, as well as thrombocytes, regarding the development and progression of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Yang
- Department of Surgery, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
- NextGen Precision Health Institute, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
- Harry S. Truman Memorial VA Hospital, Columbia, MO 65201, USA
| | - Ethan Vanderwert
- Department of Surgery, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
- NextGen Precision Health Institute, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
| | - Eric T Kimchi
- Department of Surgery, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
- NextGen Precision Health Institute, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
- Harry S. Truman Memorial VA Hospital, Columbia, MO 65201, USA
| | - Kevin F Staveley-O'Carroll
- Department of Surgery, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
- NextGen Precision Health Institute, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
- Harry S. Truman Memorial VA Hospital, Columbia, MO 65201, USA
| | - Guangfu Li
- Department of Surgery, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
- NextGen Precision Health Institute, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
- Harry S. Truman Memorial VA Hospital, Columbia, MO 65201, USA
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, University of Missouri-Columbia, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
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Chepngeno J, Amimo JO, Michael H, Raev SA, Jung K, Lee MV, Damtie D, Omwando A, Vlasova AN, Saif LJ. Vitamin A deficiency and vitamin A supplementation affect innate and T cell immune responses to rotavirus A infection in a conventional sow model. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1188757. [PMID: 37180172 PMCID: PMC10166828 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1188757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Rotavirus A (RVA) causes ~200,000 diarrheal deaths annually in children <5yrs, mostly in low- and middle-income countries. Risk factors include nutritional status, social factors, breastfeeding status, and immunodeficiency. We evaluated the effects of vitamin A (VA) deficiency/VA supplementation and RVA exposure (anamnestic) on innate and T cell immune responses in RVA seropositive pregnant and lactating sows and passive protection of their piglets post-RVA challenge. Sows were fed VA deficient (VAD) or sufficient (VAS) diets starting at gestation day (GD)30. A subset of VAD sows received VA supplementation from GD|76 (30,000IU/day, VAD+VA). Sows (6 groups) were inoculated with porcine RVA G5P[7] (OSU strain) or Minimal Essential Medium (mock) at GD~90: VAD+RVA; VAS+RVA; VAD+VA+RVA; VAD-mock; VAS-mock; and VAD+VA-mock. Blood, milk, and gut-associated tissues were collected from sows at several time points to examine innate [natural killer (NK), dendritic (DC) cells], T cell responses and changes in genes involved in the gut-mammary gland (MG)-immunological axis trafficking. Clinical signs of RVA were evaluated post inoculation of sows and post-challenge of piglets. We observed decreased frequencies of NK cells, total and MHCII+ plasmacytoid DCs, conventional DCs, CD103+ DCs and CD4+/CD8+ and T regulatory cells (Tregs) and NK cell activity in VAD+RVA sows. Polymeric Ig receptor and retinoic acid receptor alpha (RARα) genes were downregulated in mesenteric lymph nodes and ileum of VAD+RVA sows. Interestingly, RVA-specific IFN-γ producing CD4+/CD8+ T cells were increased in VAD-Mock sows, coinciding with increased IL-22 suggesting inflammation in these sows. VA supplementation to VAD+RVA sows restored frequencies of NK cells and pDCs, and NK activity, but not tissue cDCs and blood Tregs. In conclusion, similar to our recent observations of decreased B cell responses in VAD sows that led to decreased passive immune protection of their piglets, VAD impaired innate and T cell responses in sows, while VA supplementation to VAD sows restored some, but not all responses. Our data reiterate the importance of maintaining adequate VA levels and RVA immunization in pregnant and lactating mothers to achieve optimal immune responses, efficient function of the gut-MG-immune cell-axis and to improve passive protection of their piglets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliet Chepngeno
- Center for Food Animal Health, Department of Animal Sciences, College of Food Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, The Ohio State University, Wooster, OH, United States
- Department of Veterinary Preventive Medicine, The College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Joshua O. Amimo
- Center for Food Animal Health, Department of Animal Sciences, College of Food Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, The Ohio State University, Wooster, OH, United States
- Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Husheem Michael
- Center for Food Animal Health, Department of Animal Sciences, College of Food Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, The Ohio State University, Wooster, OH, United States
| | - Sergei A. Raev
- Center for Food Animal Health, Department of Animal Sciences, College of Food Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, The Ohio State University, Wooster, OH, United States
| | - Kwonil Jung
- Center for Food Animal Health, Department of Animal Sciences, College of Food Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, The Ohio State University, Wooster, OH, United States
| | - Marcia V. Lee
- Center for Food Animal Health, Department of Animal Sciences, College of Food Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, The Ohio State University, Wooster, OH, United States
| | - Debasu Damtie
- Department of Immunology and Molecular Biology, School of Biomedical and Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
- The Ohio State University Global One Health LLC, Eastern Africa Regional Office, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Alfred Omwando
- Department of Public Health, Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Anastasia N. Vlasova
- Center for Food Animal Health, Department of Animal Sciences, College of Food Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, The Ohio State University, Wooster, OH, United States
- Department of Veterinary Preventive Medicine, The College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Linda J. Saif
- Center for Food Animal Health, Department of Animal Sciences, College of Food Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, The Ohio State University, Wooster, OH, United States
- Department of Veterinary Preventive Medicine, The College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
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Oh HR, Ko MK, Son D, Ki YW, Kim SI, Lee SY, Kang KW, Cheon GJ, Hwang DW, Youn H. Activated Natural Killer Cell Inoculation Alleviates Fibrotic Liver Pathology in a Carbon Tetrachloride-Induced Liver Cirrhosis Mouse Model. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11041090. [PMID: 37189708 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11041090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) play a detrimental role in liver fibrosis progression. Natural killer (NK) cells are known to selectively recognize abnormal or transformed cells via their receptor activation and induce target cell apoptosis and, therefore, can be used as a potential therapeutic strategy for liver cirrhosis. In this study, we examined the therapeutic effects of NK cells in the carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver cirrhosis mouse model. NK cells were isolated from the mouse spleen and expanded in the cytokine-stimulated culture medium. Natural killer group 2, member D (NKG2D)-positive NK cells were significantly increased after a week of expansion in culture. The intravenous injection of NK cells significantly alleviated liver cirrhosis by reducing collagen deposition, HSC marker activation, and macrophage infiltration. For in vivo imaging, NK cells were isolated from codon-optimized luciferase-expressing transgenic mice. Luciferase-expressing NK cells were expanded, activated and administrated to the mouse model to track them. Bioluminescence images showed increased accumulation of the intravenously inoculated NK cells in the cirrhotic liver of the recipient mouse. In addition, we conducted QuantSeq 3' mRNA sequencing-based transcriptomic analysis. From the transcriptomic analysis, 33 downregulated genes in the extracellular matrix (ECM) and 41 downregulated genes involved in the inflammatory response were observed in the NK cell-treated cirrhotic liver tissues from the 1532 differentially expressed genes (DEGs). This result indicated that the repetitive administration of NK cells alleviated the pathology of liver fibrosis in the CCl4-induced liver cirrhosis mouse model via anti-fibrotic and anti-inflammatory mechanisms. Taken together, our research demonstrated that NK cells could have therapeutic effects in a CCl4-induced liver cirrhosis mouse model. In particular, it was elucidated that extracellular matrix genes and inflammatory response genes, which were mainly affected after NK cell treatment, could be potential targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ho Rim Oh
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
- Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Min Kyung Ko
- Research & Development Center, THERABEST, Co., Ltd., Seoul 06656, Republic of Korea
| | - Daehee Son
- Research & Development Center, THERABEST, Co., Ltd., Seoul 06656, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Wook Ki
- Research & Development Center, THERABEST, Co., Ltd., Seoul 06656, Republic of Korea
| | - Shin-Il Kim
- Research & Development Center, THERABEST, Co., Ltd., Seoul 06656, Republic of Korea
| | - Seok-Yong Lee
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
- Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
- Cancer Imaging Center, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Keon Wook Kang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
- Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Gi Jeong Cheon
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
- Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Do Won Hwang
- Research & Development Center, THERABEST, Co., Ltd., Seoul 06656, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyewon Youn
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
- Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
- Cancer Imaging Center, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
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9
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Kim HH, Kim K, Hong SH, Jeong WI. Isolation of Hepatic Stellate Cells and Lymphocytes for Co-culture Systems. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2669:111-128. [PMID: 37247057 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3207-9_7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
In contrast to quiescent hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), activated HSCs play crucial roles in the development of liver fibrosis by producing a huge amount of extracellular matrix such as collagen fibers. However, recent lines of evidence have also highlighted the immunoregulatory functions of HSCs, in which they interact with diverse hepatic lymphocytes to produce cytokines and chemokines, release extracellular vesicles, or express specific ligands. Therefore, to understand the exact interactions between HSCs and lymphocyte subsets in the pathogenesis of the liver disease, it is valuable to establish experimental procedures to isolate HSC and co-culture them with lymphocytes. Here, we introduce the efficient methods to isolate and purify mouse HSCs and hepatic lymphocytes using density gradient centrifugation, microscopic observation, and flow cytometry. Moreover, we provide the direct and indirect co-culturing methods of isolated mouse HSCs and hepatic lymphocytes based upon the purpose of the study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hee-Hoon Kim
- Laboratory of Liver Research, Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyurae Kim
- Laboratory of Liver Research, Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Song Hwa Hong
- Laboratory of Liver Research, Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Won-Il Jeong
- Laboratory of Liver Research, Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea.
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10
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Jiang X, Peng Y, Liu L, Wang Y, Li M, Li W, Huang F, Zheng C, Xu F, Hu Q, Wei W, Dong S, Zhao Q. MAIT cells ameliorate liver fibrosis by enhancing the cytotoxicity of NK cells in cholestatic murine models. Liver Int 2022; 42:2743-2758. [PMID: 36181707 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Mucosal-associated invariant T (MAIT) cells are innate-like lymphocytes that display a critical role in various liver diseases. However, the role of MAIT cells in cholestatic liver fibrogenesis remains obscure. Our study aims to assess the contribution of MAIT cells and underlying mechanisms during this process. METHODS Cholestatic murine models using MAIT cell-deficient (MR1- /- ) and wild-type (WT) mice were established by feeding a 0.1% 3,5-diethoxycarbonyl-1,4-dihydrocollidine (DDC)-enriched diet or bile duct ligation (BDL). Liver samples were collected to determine the severity of fibrosis. Lymphocytes of the liver were isolated for analysing the phenotype and function of MAIT cells. Cell co-culture experiments were performed to investigate the cross-talk between MAIT and NK cells. RESULTS Liver MAIT cells were more activated with increased cytokines in cholestatic mice models than in control mice, although their frequency was decreased. MAIT cell deficiency led to severe liver inflammation and fibrosis with more activated HSCs in cholestatic mice. In addition, MR1- /- mice had an increased frequency of NK cells with higher expression of stimulatory receptors relative to WT mice. Paradoxically, activated MAIT cells significantly promoted the anti-fibrotic ability of NK cells by enhancing their cytotoxicity against HSCs in co-culture experiments. Importantly, this effect depended on direct cell-cell contact and TNF-α produced by MAIT cells. CONCLUSION Our findings indicate that MAIT cells ameliorate cholestatic liver fibrosis by enhancing the cytotoxicity of NK cells against HSCs. An in-depth understanding of the MAIT cell-mediated regulatory effect will provide more valuable immunotherapy strategies to treat liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Jiang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Hubei Clinical Center and Key Lab of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, China
| | - Yanan Peng
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Hubei Clinical Center and Key Lab of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, China
| | - Lan Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Hubei Clinical Center and Key Lab of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, China
| | - Youwei Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Hubei Clinical Center and Key Lab of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, China
| | - Mengting Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Hubei Clinical Center and Key Lab of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, China
| | - Wenjie Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Hubei Clinical Center and Key Lab of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, China
| | - Fengxing Huang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Hubei Clinical Center and Key Lab of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, China
| | - Chunlan Zheng
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Hubei Clinical Center and Key Lab of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, China
| | - Fei Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Hubei Clinical Center and Key Lab of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, China
| | - Qian Hu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Hubei Clinical Center and Key Lab of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, China
| | - Wanhui Wei
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Hubei Clinical Center and Key Lab of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, China
| | - Shouquan Dong
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Hubei Clinical Center and Key Lab of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, China
| | - Qiu Zhao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Hubei Clinical Center and Key Lab of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, China
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11
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Wei Y, Bingyu W, Lei Y, Xingxing Y. The antifibrotic role of natural killer cells in liver fibrosis. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2022; 247:1235-1243. [PMID: 35475367 PMCID: PMC9379607 DOI: 10.1177/15353702221092672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is the common pathological change of chronic liver diseases characterized by increased deposition of extracellular matrix and reduced matrix degradation. In response to liver injury caused by a variety of pathogenic agents, such as virus and alcohol, hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are differentiated into myofibroblast-like cells and produce excessive collagens, thus resulting in fibrogenesis. Natural killer (NK) cells are the essential innate immune cells in the liver and generally control fibrosis by killing activated HSCs. This review briefly describes the fibrogenesis process and the phenotypic features of hepatic NK cells. Besides, it focuses on the antifibrotic mechanisms of NK cells and explores the potential of activating NK cells as a therapeutic strategy for the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Wei
- Department of Hepatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410000, China
| | - Wang Bingyu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Heilongjiang Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150001, China
| | - Yang Lei
- Department of Gastroenterology, Heilongjiang Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150001, China
| | - Yuan Xingxing
- Department of Gastroenterology, Heilongjiang Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150001, China,Yuan Xingxing.
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12
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Zhang Y, Wu Y, Shen W, Wang B, Yuan X. Crosstalk between NK cells and hepatic stellate cells in liver fibrosis (Review). Mol Med Rep 2022; 25:208. [PMID: 35506449 PMCID: PMC9133963 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2022.12724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a common pathological process of chronic liver diseases, including viral hepatitis and alcoholic liver disease, and ultimately progresses to irreversible cirrhosis and cancer. Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are activated to produce amounts of collagens in response to liver injury, thus triggering the initiation and progression of fibrogenesis. Natural killer (NK) cells serve as the essential component of hepatic innate immunity and are considered to alleviate fibrosis by killing activated HSCs. Current antifibrotic interventions have improved fibrosis, but fail to halt its progression in the advanced stage. Clarifying the interaction between NK cells and HSCs will provide clues to the pathogenesis and potential therapies for advanced liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Heilongjiang University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150001, P.R. China
| | - Yuan Wu
- The Graduate School, Heilongjiang University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150001, P.R. China
| | - Wenjuan Shen
- Department of Gynaecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Heilongjiang University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150001, P.R. China
| | - Bingyu Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Heilongjiang Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150001, P.R. China
| | - Xingxing Yuan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Heilongjiang Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150001, P.R. China
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13
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Tao X, Zhang R, Du R, Yu T, Yang H, Li J, Wang Y, Liu Q, Zuo S, Wang X, Lazarus M, Zhou L, Wang B, Yu Y, Shen Y. EP3 enhances adhesion and cytotoxicity of NK cells toward hepatic stellate cells in a murine liver fibrosis model. J Exp Med 2022; 219:213141. [PMID: 35420633 DOI: 10.1084/jem.20212414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells exhibit antifibrotic properties in liver fibrosis (LF) by suppressing activated hepatic stellate cell (HSC) populations. Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) plays a dual role in innate and adaptive immunity. Here, we found that E-prostanoid 3 receptor (EP3) was markedly downregulated in NK cells from liver fibrosis mice and patients with liver cirrhosis. NK cell-specific deletion of EP3 aggravated hepatic fibrogenesis in mouse models of LF. Loss of EP3 selectively reduced the cytotoxicity of the CD27+CD11b+ double positive (DP) NK subset against activated HSCs. Mechanistically, deletion of EP3 impaired the adhesion and cytotoxicity of DP NK cells toward HSCs through modulation of Itga4-VCAM1 binding. EP3 upregulated Itga4 expression in NK cells through promoting Spic nuclear translocation via PKC-mediated phosphorylation of Spic at T191. Activation of EP3 by sulprostone alleviated CCL4-induced liver fibrosis in mice. Thus, EP3 is required for adhesion and cytotoxicity of NK cells toward HSCs and may serve as a therapeutic target for the management of LF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xixi Tao
- Department of Pharmacology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Biology, Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Rui Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Biology, Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Ronglu Du
- Department of Pharmacology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Biology, Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Tingting Yu
- Department of Pharmacology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Biology, Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Hui Yang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Institute of Digestive Diseases, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases, Tianjin, China
| | - Jiwen Li
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Institute of Digestive Diseases, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases, Tianjin, China
| | - Yuhong Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Biology, Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Qian Liu
- Department of Pharmacology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Biology, Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Shengkai Zuo
- Department of Pharmacology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Biology, Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Xi Wang
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Michael Lazarus
- International Institute for Integrative Sleep Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba City, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Lu Zhou
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Institute of Digestive Diseases, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases, Tianjin, China
| | - Bangmao Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Institute of Digestive Diseases, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases, Tianjin, China
| | - Ying Yu
- Department of Pharmacology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Biology, Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yujun Shen
- Department of Pharmacology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Biology, Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
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14
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Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common cause of chronic liver disease worldwide, involving approximately 25% of the general population and increasing in prevalence in patient populations afflicted with metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes. This article discusses the complex interplay between NAFLD and chronic kidney disease (CKD), as well as the underlying pathogenesis and mechanisms through which NAFLD and CKD are linked. Exploration of these sophisticated relationships and causative factors is essential to accurately assessing kidney function in patients with NAFLD, recommending pharmacologic treatment of disease, and identifying favorable avenues for future investigation.
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15
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Melis M, Tang XH, Trasino SE, Gudas LJ. Retinoids in the Pathogenesis and Treatment of Liver Diseases. Nutrients 2022; 14:1456. [PMID: 35406069 PMCID: PMC9002467 DOI: 10.3390/nu14071456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Vitamin A (VA), all-trans-retinol (ROL), and its analogs are collectively called retinoids. Acting through the retinoic acid receptors RARα, RARβ, and RARγ, all-trans-retinoic acid, an active metabolite of VA, is a potent regulator of numerous biological pathways, including embryonic and somatic cellular differentiation, immune functions, and energy metabolism. The liver is the primary organ for retinoid storage and metabolism in humans. For reasons that remain incompletely understood, a body of evidence shows that reductions in liver retinoids, aberrant retinoid metabolism, and reductions in RAR signaling are implicated in numerous diseases of the liver, including hepatocellular carcinoma, non-alcohol-associated fatty liver diseases, and alcohol-associated liver diseases. Conversely, restoration of retinoid signaling, pharmacological treatments with natural and synthetic retinoids, and newer agonists for specific RARs show promising benefits for treatment of a number of these liver diseases. Here we provide a comprehensive review of the literature demonstrating a role for retinoids in limiting the pathogenesis of these diseases and in the treatment of liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Melis
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY 10021, USA; (M.M.); (X.-H.T.)
| | - Xiao-Han Tang
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY 10021, USA; (M.M.); (X.-H.T.)
| | - Steven E. Trasino
- Nutrition Program, Hunter College, City University of New York, New York, NY 10065, USA;
| | - Lorraine J. Gudas
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY 10021, USA; (M.M.); (X.-H.T.)
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16
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Carter JK, Friedman SL. Hepatic Stellate Cell-Immune Interactions in NASH. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:867940. [PMID: 35757404 PMCID: PMC9218059 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.867940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the dominant cause of liver disease worldwide. Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), a more aggressive presentation of NAFLD, is characterized by severe hepatocellular injury, inflammation, and fibrosis. Chronic inflammation and heightened immune cell activity have emerged as hallmark features of NASH and key drivers of fibrosis through the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). Recent advances in our understanding of the molecular and cellular pathways in NASH have highlighted extensive crosstalk between HSCs and hepatic immune populations that strongly influences disease activity. Here, we review these findings, emphasizing the roles of HSCs in liver immunity and inflammation, key cell-cell interactions, and exciting areas for future investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- James K Carter
- Division of Liver Diseases, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
- Medical Scientist Training Program, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
| | - Scott L Friedman
- Division of Liver Diseases, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
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17
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Sánchez PS, Rigual MDM, Djouder N. Inflammatory and Non-Inflammatory Mechanisms Controlling Cirrhosis Development. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13205045. [PMID: 34680192 PMCID: PMC8534267 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13205045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2021] [Revised: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The liver is continuously exposed to several harmful factors, subsequently activating sophisticated mechanisms set-up in order to repair and regenerate the damaged liver and hence to prevent its failure. When the injury becomes chronic, the regenerative response becomes perpetual and goes awry, leading to cirrhosis with a fatal liver dysfunction. Cirrhosis is a well-known risk factor for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most common, usually lethal, human primary liver neoplasm with very limited therapeutic options. Considering the pivotal role of immune factors in the development of cirrhosis, here we review and discuss the inflammatory pathways and components implicated in the development of cirrhosis. A better understanding of these circuits would help the design of novel strategies to prevent and treat cirrhosis and HCC, two lethal diseases. Abstract Because the liver is considered to be one of the most important metabolic organs in the body, it is continuously exposed to damaging environmental agents. Upon damage, several complex cellular and molecular mechanisms in charge of liver recovery and regeneration are activated to prevent the failure of the organ. When liver injury becomes chronic, the regenerative response goes awry and impairs the liver function, consequently leading to cirrhosis, a liver disorder that can cause patient death. Cirrhosis has a disrupted liver architecture and zonation, along with the presence of fibrosis and parenchymal nodules, known as regenerative nodules (RNs). Inflammatory cues contribute to the cirrhotic process in response to chronic damaging agents. Cirrhosis can progress to HCC, the most common and one of the most lethal liver cancers with unmet medical needs. Considering the essential role of inflammatory pathways in the development of cirrhosis, further understanding of the relationship between immune cells and the activation of RNs and fibrosis would guide the design of innovative therapeutic strategies to ameliorate the survival of cirrhotic and HCC patients. In this review, we will summarize the inflammatory mechanisms implicated in the development of cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Nabil Djouder
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-3-491-732-8000 (ext. 3830); Fax: +34-3-491-224-6914
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18
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Abstract
While the uses of retinoids for cancer treatment continue to evolve, this review focuses on other therapeutic areas in which retinoids [retinol (vitamin A), all-trans retinoic acid (RA), and synthetic retinoic acid receptor (RAR)α-, β-, and γ-selective agonists] are being used and on promising new research that suggests additional uses for retinoids for the treatment of disorders of the kidneys, skeletal muscles, heart, pancreas, liver, nervous system, skin, and other organs. The most mature area, in terms of US Food and Drug Administration-approved, RAR-selective agonists, is for treatment of various skin diseases. Synthetic retinoid agonists have major advantages over endogenous RAR agonists such as RA. Because they act through a specific RAR, side effects may be minimized, and synthetic retinoids often have better pharmaceutical properties than does RA. Based on our increasing knowledge of the multiple roles of retinoids in development, epigenetic regulation, and tissue repair, other exciting therapeutic areas are emerging. Expected final online publication date for the Annual Review of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Volume 62 is January 2022. Please see http://www.annualreviews.org/page/journal/pubdates for revised estimates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorraine J Gudas
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY 10021, USA;
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19
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Abstract
Introduction: Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are essential for physiological homeostasis of the liver extracellular matrix (ECM). Excessive transdifferentiation of HSC from a quiescent to an activated phenotype contributes to disrupt this balance and can lead to liver fibrosis. Accumulating evidence has suggested that nuclear receptors (NRs) are involved in the regulation of HSC activation, proliferation, and function. Therefore, these NRs may be therapeutic targets to balance ECM homeostasis and inhibit HSC activation in liver fibrosis.Areas covered: In this review, the authors summarized the recent progress in the understanding of the regulatory role of NRs in HSCs and their potential as drug targets in liver fibrosis.Expert opinion: NRs are still potential therapy targets for inhibiting HSCs activation and liver fibrosis. However, the development of NRs agonists or antagonists to inhibit HSCs requires fully consideration of systemic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiyun Pu
- Department of Pharmacy, Chengdu Fifth People's Hospital, Chengdu University of TCM, Chengdu, China
| | - Hongjing Zhou
- Department of Pharmacy, Chengdu Fifth People's Hospital, Chengdu University of TCM, Chengdu, China
| | - Yan Liu
- Department of Interventional Therapy, Chengdu Fifth People's Hospital, Chengdu University of TCM, Chengdu, China
| | - Jiao Liu
- Department of Interventional Therapy, Chengdu Fifth People's Hospital, Chengdu University of TCM, Chengdu, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Chengdu Fifth People's Hospital, Chengdu University of TCM, Chengdu, China
| | - Yuanxin Guo
- Department of Pharmacy, Chengdu Fifth People's Hospital, Chengdu University of TCM, Chengdu, China
| | - Houfeng Zhou
- Department of Pharmacy, Chengdu Fifth People's Hospital, Chengdu University of TCM, Chengdu, China
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20
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Kartasheva-Ebertz DM, Pol S, Lagaye S. Retinoic Acid: A New Old Friend of IL-17A in the Immune Pathogeny of Liver Fibrosis. Front Immunol 2021; 12:691073. [PMID: 34211477 PMCID: PMC8239722 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.691073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite all the medical advances mortality due to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma, the end stages of fibrosis, continuously increases. Recent data suggest that liver fibrosis is guided by type 3 inflammation with IL-17A at the top of the line. The storage of vitamin A and its active metabolites, as well as genetics, can influence the development and progression of liver fibrosis and inflammation. Retinoic acid (active metabolite of vitamin A) is able to regulate the differentiation of IL-17A+/IL-22–producing cells as well as the expression of profibrotic markers. IL-17A and its pro-fibrotic role in the liver is the most studied, while the interaction and communication between IL-17A, IL-22, and vitamin A–active metabolites has not been investigated. We aim to update what is known about IL-17A, IL-22, and retinoic acid in the pathobiology of liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Stanislas Pol
- Institut Pasteur, INSERM U1223, Paris, France.,Université de Paris, Paris, France.,APHP, Groupe Hospitalier Cochin, Département d'Hépatologie, Paris, France
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21
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Wan M, Han J, Ding L, Hu F, Gao P. Novel Immune Subsets and Related Cytokines: Emerging Players in the Progression of Liver Fibrosis. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:604894. [PMID: 33869241 PMCID: PMC8047058 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.604894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a pathological process caused by persistent chronic injury of the liver. Kupffer cells, natural killer (NK) cells, NKT cells, and dendritic cells (DCs), which are in close contact with T and B cells, serve to bridge innate and adaptive immunity in the liver. Meanwhile, an imbalanced inflammatory response constitutes a challenge in liver disease. The dichotomous roles of novel immune cells, including T helper 17 (Th17), regulatory T cells (Tregs), mucosa-associated invariant T cells (MAIT), and innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) in liver fibrosis have gradually been revealed. These cells not only induce damage during liver fibrosis but also promote tissue repair. Hence, immune cells have unique, and often opposing, roles during the various stages of fibrosis. Due to this heterogeneity, the treatment, or reversal of fibrosis through the target of immune cells have attracted much attention. Moreover, activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) constitutes the core of fibrosis. This activation is regulated by various immune mediators, including Th17, Th22, and Th9, MAIT, ILCs, and γδ T cells, as well as their related cytokines. Thus, liver fibrosis results from the complex interaction of these immune mediators, thereby complicating the ability to elucidate the mechanisms of action elicited by each cell type. Future developments in biotechnology will certainly aid in this feat to inform the design of novel therapeutic targets. Therefore, the aim of this review was to summarize the role of specific immune cells in liver fibrosis, as well as biomarkers and treatment methods related to these cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minjie Wan
- Department of Hepatology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, China.,Central Laboratory, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jiawen Han
- Central Laboratory, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Lili Ding
- Central Laboratory, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, China.,Intensive Care Unit, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Feng Hu
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, The Second Part of First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Pujun Gao
- Department of Hepatology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, China
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22
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Abstract
Since it was first described by the German anatomist and histologist, Joseph Hugo Vincenz Disse, the structure and functions of the space of Disse, a thin perisinusoidal area between the endothelial cells and hepatocytes filled with blood plasma, have acquired great importance in liver disease. The space of Disse is home for the hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), the major fibrogenic players in the liver. Quiescent HSCs (qHSCs) store vitamin A, and upon activation they lose their retinol reservoir and become activated. Activated HSCs (aHSCs) are responsible for secretion of extracellular matrix (ECM) into the space of Disse. This early event in hepatic injury is accompanied by loss of the pores—known as fenestrations—of the endothelial cells, triggering loss of balance between the blood flow and the hepatocyte, and underlies the link between fibrosis and organ dysfunction. If the imbalance persists, the expansion of the fibrotic scar followed by the vascularized septae leads to cirrhosis and/or end-stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Thus, researchers have been focused on finding therapeutic targets that reduce fibrosis. The space of Disse provides the perfect microenvironment for the stem cells niche in the liver and the interchange of nutrients between cells. In the present review article, we focused on the space of Disse, its components and its leading role in liver disease development.
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23
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Immunity as Cornerstone of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: The Contribution of Oxidative Stress in the Disease Progression. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22010436. [PMID: 33406763 PMCID: PMC7795122 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22010436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Revised: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 12/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is considered the hepatic manifestation of metabolic syndrome and has become the major cause of chronic liver disease, especially in western countries. NAFLD encompasses a wide spectrum of hepatic histological alterations, from simple steatosis to steatohepatitis and cirrhosis with a potential development of hepatocellular carcinoma. Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is characterized by lobular inflammation and fibrosis. Several studies reported that insulin resistance, redox unbalance, inflammation, and lipid metabolism dysregulation are involved in NAFLD progression. However, the mechanisms beyond the evolution of simple steatosis to NASH are not clearly understood yet. Recent findings suggest that different oxidized products, such as lipids, cholesterol, aldehydes and other macromolecules could drive the inflammation onset. On the other hand, new evidence indicates innate and adaptive immunity activation as the driving force in establishing liver inflammation and fibrosis. In this review, we discuss how immunity, triggered by oxidative products and promoting in turn oxidative stress in a vicious cycle, fuels NAFLD progression. Furthermore, we explored the emerging importance of immune cell metabolism in determining inflammation, describing the potential application of trained immune discoveries in the NASH pathological context.
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24
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Cha JJ, Mandal C, Ghee JY, Yoo JA, Lee MJ, Kang YS, Hyun YY, Lee JE, Kim HW, Han SY, Han JY, Chung AY, Yoon DW, Rhyu IJ, Oh J, Cha DR. Inhibition of Renal Stellate Cell Activation Reduces Renal Fibrosis. Biomedicines 2020; 8:biomedicines8100431. [PMID: 33086608 PMCID: PMC7603238 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines8100431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2020] [Revised: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 10/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Interstitial fibrosis is a common feature of chronic kidney disease, and platelet-derived growth factor receptor-β (PDGFR-β)-positive mesenchymal cells are reportedly the major source of scar-producing myofibroblasts. We had previously demonstrated that albumin and its derivative R-III (a retinol-binding protein-albumin domain III fusion protein) inhibited the transdifferentiation/activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) to myofibroblasts and that R-III administration reduced liver fibrosis. In this study, we isolated cells (referred to as renal stellate cells, RSCs) from rat kidney tissues using the HSC isolation protocol and compared their morphological and biochemical characteristics with those of HSCs. RSCs shared many characteristics with HSCs, such as storage of vitamin A-containing lipid droplets and expression of HSC markers as well as pericyte markers. RSCs underwent spontaneous transdifferentiation into myofibroblasts in in vitro culture, which was inhibited by albumin expression or R-III treatment. We also evaluated the therapeutic effects of R-III in unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO)-induced renal fibrosis in mice. Injected R-III localized predominantly in cytoglobin/stellate cell activation-associated protein (Cygb/STAP)-positive cells in the kidney and reduced renal fibrosis. These findings suggest that RSCs can be recognized as the renal counterparts of HSCs and that RSCs represent an attractive therapeutic target for anti-fibrotic therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Joo Cha
- Department of Nephrology, Korea University Ansan Hospital, Ansan 15355, Korea; (J.J.C.); (J.Y.G.); (J.A.Y.); (M.J.L.); (Y.S.K.)
| | - Chanchal Mandal
- Department of Anatomy, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul 02841, Korea; (C.M.); (A.Y.C.); (D.W.Y.); (I.J.R.)
| | - Jung Yeon Ghee
- Department of Nephrology, Korea University Ansan Hospital, Ansan 15355, Korea; (J.J.C.); (J.Y.G.); (J.A.Y.); (M.J.L.); (Y.S.K.)
| | - Ji Ae Yoo
- Department of Nephrology, Korea University Ansan Hospital, Ansan 15355, Korea; (J.J.C.); (J.Y.G.); (J.A.Y.); (M.J.L.); (Y.S.K.)
| | - Mi Jin Lee
- Department of Nephrology, Korea University Ansan Hospital, Ansan 15355, Korea; (J.J.C.); (J.Y.G.); (J.A.Y.); (M.J.L.); (Y.S.K.)
| | - Young Sun Kang
- Department of Nephrology, Korea University Ansan Hospital, Ansan 15355, Korea; (J.J.C.); (J.Y.G.); (J.A.Y.); (M.J.L.); (Y.S.K.)
| | - Young Youl Hyun
- Department of Nephrology, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul 03181, Korea;
| | - Ji Eun Lee
- Department of Nephrology, Wonkwang University Sanbon Hospital, Gunpo 15865, Korea; (J.E.L.); (H.W.K.)
| | - Hyun Wook Kim
- Department of Nephrology, Wonkwang University Sanbon Hospital, Gunpo 15865, Korea; (J.E.L.); (H.W.K.)
| | - Sang Youb Han
- Department of Nephrology, Inje University Ilsan Paik Hospital, Ilsan 10380, Korea;
| | - Jee Young Han
- Department of Pathology, Inha University Hospital, Incheon 22332, Korea;
| | - Ah Young Chung
- Department of Anatomy, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul 02841, Korea; (C.M.); (A.Y.C.); (D.W.Y.); (I.J.R.)
| | - Dae Wui Yoon
- Department of Anatomy, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul 02841, Korea; (C.M.); (A.Y.C.); (D.W.Y.); (I.J.R.)
| | - Im Joo Rhyu
- Department of Anatomy, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul 02841, Korea; (C.M.); (A.Y.C.); (D.W.Y.); (I.J.R.)
| | - Junseo Oh
- Department of Anatomy, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul 02841, Korea; (C.M.); (A.Y.C.); (D.W.Y.); (I.J.R.)
- Correspondence: (J.O.); (D.R.C.); Tel.: +82-2-2286-1389 (J.O.); +82-31-412-5572 (D.R.C.)
| | - Dae Ryong Cha
- Department of Nephrology, Korea University Ansan Hospital, Ansan 15355, Korea; (J.J.C.); (J.Y.G.); (J.A.Y.); (M.J.L.); (Y.S.K.)
- Correspondence: (J.O.); (D.R.C.); Tel.: +82-2-2286-1389 (J.O.); +82-31-412-5572 (D.R.C.)
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25
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Wang W, Huang X, Fan X, Yan J, Luan J. Progress in evaluating the status of hepatitis C infection based on the functional changes of hepatic stellate cells (Review). Mol Med Rep 2020; 22:4116-4124. [PMID: 33000255 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2020.11516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a global public health problem. Cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma are the main causes of death in patients with chronic hepatitis C (CHC) infection. Liver fibrosis is an important cause of cirrhosis and end‑stage liver disease after CHC infection. Along with the course of infection, liver fibrosis exhibits a progressive exacerbation. Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are involved in both physiological and pathological processes of the liver. During the chronic liver injury process, the activated HSCs transform into myofibroblasts, which are important cells in the development of liver fibrosis. At present, HCV infection still lacks specific markers for the accurate detection of the disease condition and progression. Therefore, the present review focused on HSCs, which are closely related to HCV‑infected liver fibrosis, and analyzed the changes in the HSCs, including their surface‑specific markers, cytokine production, activation, cell function and morphological structure. The present review aimed to propose novel diagnostic markers, at both the cellular and molecular level, which would be of great significance for the timely diagnosis of the disease. According to this aim, the characteristic changes of HSCs during HCV infection were reviewed in the present article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Wang
- Department of Blood Transfusion Medicine, School of Medicine, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210002, P.R. China
| | - Xuelian Huang
- Department of Blood Transfusion Medicine, School of Medicine, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210002, P.R. China
| | - Xuzhou Fan
- Department of Blood Transfusion Medicine, School of Medicine, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210002, P.R. China
| | - Jingmei Yan
- Department of Blood Transfusion Medicine, School of Medicine, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210002, P.R. China
| | - Jianfeng Luan
- Department of Blood Transfusion Medicine, School of Medicine, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210002, P.R. China
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26
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Barry AE, Baldeosingh R, Lamm R, Patel K, Zhang K, Dominguez DA, Kirton KJ, Shah AP, Dang H. Hepatic Stellate Cells and Hepatocarcinogenesis. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:709. [PMID: 32850829 PMCID: PMC7419619 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.00709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are a significant component of the hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) tumor microenvironment (TME). Activated HSCs transform into myofibroblast-like cells to promote fibrosis in response to liver injury or chronic inflammation, leading to cirrhosis and HCC. The hepatic TME is comprised of cellular components, including activated HSCs, tumor-associated macrophages, endothelial cells, immune cells, and non-cellular components, such as growth factors, proteolytic enzymes and their inhibitors, and other extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins. Interactions between HCC cells and their microenvironment have become topics under active investigation. These interactions within the hepatic TME have the potential to drive carcinogenesis and create challenges in generating effective therapies. Current studies reveal potential mechanisms through which activated HSCs drive hepatocarcinogenesis utilizing matricellular proteins and paracrine crosstalk within the TME. Since activated HSCs are primary secretors of ECM proteins during liver injury and inflammation, they help promote fibrogenesis, infiltrate the HCC stroma, and contribute to HCC development. In this review, we examine several recent studies revealing the roles of HSCs and their clinical implications in the development of fibrosis and cirrhosis within the hepatic TME.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna E Barry
- Department of Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States.,Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Rajkumar Baldeosingh
- Department of Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States.,Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Ryan Lamm
- Department of Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Keyur Patel
- Department of Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Kai Zhang
- Department of Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States.,Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Dana A Dominguez
- Department of General Surgery, UCSF East Bay, Oakland, CA, United States
| | - Kayla J Kirton
- Department of Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Ashesh P Shah
- Department of Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Hien Dang
- Department of Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States.,Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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27
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Wang ZM, Xia SW, Zhang T, Wang ZY, Yang X, Kai J, Cheng XD, Shao JJ, Tan SZ, Chen AP, Wang SJ, Zhang F, Zhang ZL, Zheng SZ. LncRNA-H19 induces hepatic stellate cell activation via upregulating alcohol dehydrogenase III-mediated retinoic acid signals. Int Immunopharmacol 2020; 84:106470. [PMID: 32304991 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2020.106470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2019] [Revised: 03/30/2020] [Accepted: 03/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) is a pivotal event in liver fibrosis, characterized by enhanced retinoic acid signals. Although up-regulated retinoic acid signal responds further to maintain HSC activation, the underlying molecular mechanisms are largely unknown. In this study, we sought to investigate the role of lncRNA-H19 in regulation of retinoic acid signals, and to further examine the underlying mechanism in this molecular context. We found that lncRNA-H19 upregulation could enhance retinoic acid signals to induce HSC activation, whereas lncRNA-H19 knockdown completely disturbed retinoic acid signals. Moreover, the activation of retinoic acid signals impaired the lncRNA-H19 knockdown mediated HSC inactivation. Interestingly, we also found that enhanced retinoic acid signals by lncRNA-H19 was associated with a coordinate increase in retinol metabolism during HSC activation. Increased retinol metabolism contributed to obvious lipid droplet consumption. Importantly, we identified that alcohol dehydrogenase III (ADH3) was essential for lncRNA-H19 to enhance retinoic acid signals. The inhibition of ADH3 completely abrogated the lncRNA-H19 mediated retinoic acid signals and HSC activation. Of note, we identified dihydroartemisinin (DHA) as a natural inhibitor for lncRNA-H19. Treatment with DHA significantly decreased the expression of lncRNA-H19, reduced the expression of ADH3, blocked retinoic acid signals, and in turn, inhibited HSC activation. Overall, these results provided novel implications to reveal the molecular mechanism of increased retinoic acid signals during HSC activation, and identify lncRNA-H19/ADH3 pathway as a potential target for the treatment of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi-Min Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Si-Wei Xia
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Tian Zhang
- Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Zhen-Yi Wang
- Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Xiang Yang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Jun Kai
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Xu-Dong Cheng
- Suzhou TCM Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Suzhou 215000, China
| | - Jiang-Juan Shao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Shan-Zhong Tan
- Nanjing Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - An-Ping Chen
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Saint Louis University, MO 63104, USA
| | - Shi-Jun Wang
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250035, China
| | - Feng Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Zi-Li Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China.
| | - Shi-Zhong Zheng
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China.
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28
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Perpiñán E, Pérez-Del-Pulgar S, Londoño MC, Mariño Z, Bartres C, González P, García-López M, Pose E, Lens S, Maini MK, Forns X, Koutsoudakis G. Cirrhosis Hampers Early and Rapid Normalization of Natural Killer Cell Phenotype and Function in Hepatitis C Patients Undergoing Interferon-Free Therapy. Front Immunol 2020; 11:129. [PMID: 32161581 PMCID: PMC7052355 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.00129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2019] [Accepted: 01/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection impairs natural killer (NK) cell phenotype and function. Whether restoration of NK cells occurs after successful interferon (IFN)-free therapies remains a controversial issue. Aim: To analyze how HCV-related liver cirrhosis impacts changes in NK cells prior and post-IFN-free therapies. Methods: NK cell analysis by multicolor flow cytometry was performed in HCV-infected patients with (n = 17) and without (n = 14) cirrhosis at baseline, week 4 during therapy, and weeks 12 and 48 after the end of therapy (FU12 and FU48, respectively). Non-HCV cirrhotic patients (n = 12) and healthy individuals (n = 12) served as controls. Results: At baseline, HCV cirrhotic patients presented an altered distribution of NK subsets (CD56dim and CD56bright) with higher expression of NKp46, HLA-DR, NKp30, KIR2DL2/L3, NKG2A, and CD85j receptors compared to healthy controls. All frequencies normalized by FU48, except for CD85j+ cells. Likewise, substantial alterations were detected in NK cell function assessed by (i) signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (STAT1) and phosphorylated levels of STAT1 and STAT4, (ii) degranulation (CD107a), (iii) cytotoxicity [tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL)], and (iv) cytokine production [IFN-γ and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α)]. Of note, NK cell function at FU48 remained partially impaired. In contrast, non-cirrhotics showed normal baseline frequencies of HLA-DR-, NKG2A-, and CD85j-expressing NK cells. Importantly, altered baseline frequencies of NK cell subsets and NKp46+ CD56dim cells, as well as NK cell function, were rapidly and completely restored. Conclusions: NK cell phenotype alterations persist after HCV eradication in cirrhotic patients, while their function is only partially restored, compromising immune restoration and immunosurveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Perpiñán
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sofía Pérez-Del-Pulgar
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Barcelona, Spain
| | - María-Carlota Londoño
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Zoe Mariño
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Concepción Bartres
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Patricia González
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mireia García-López
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Elisa Pose
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sabela Lens
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mala K. Maini
- Division of Infection and Immunity, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Xavier Forns
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Barcelona, Spain
| | - George Koutsoudakis
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Barcelona, Spain
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29
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Intercellular crosstalk of hepatic stellate cells in liver fibrosis: New insights into therapy. Pharmacol Res 2020; 155:104720. [PMID: 32092405 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2020.104720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2019] [Revised: 01/08/2020] [Accepted: 02/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a dynamic wound-healing process characterized by the net accumulation of extracellular matrix. There is no efficient antifibrotic therapy other than liver transplantation to date. Activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are the major cellular source of matrix-producing myofibroblasts, playing a central role in the initiation and progression of liver fibrosis. Paracrine signals from resident and inflammatory cells such as hepatocytes, liver sinusoidal endothelial cells, hepatic macrophages, natural killer/natural killer T cells, biliary epithelial cells, hepatic progenitor cells, and platelets can directly or indirectly regulate HSC differentiation and activation. Intercellular crosstalk between HSCs and those "responded" cells has been a critical event involved in HSC activation and fibrogenesis. This review summarizes recent advancement regarding intercellular communication between HSCs and other "responded cells" during liver fibrosis and experimental models of intercellular crosstalk systems, and provides novel ideas for potential antifibrotic therapeutic strategy.
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30
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Cellular Interplay as a Consequence of Inflammatory Signals Leading to Liver Fibrosis Development. Cells 2020; 9:cells9020461. [PMID: 32085494 PMCID: PMC7072785 DOI: 10.3390/cells9020461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2020] [Revised: 02/10/2020] [Accepted: 02/15/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Inflammation has been known to be an important driver of fibrogenesis in the liver and onset of hepatic fibrosis. It starts off as a process meant to protect the liver from further damage, but it can become the main promoter of liver fibrosis. There are many inflammation-related pathways activated during liver fibrosis that lead to hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) activation and collagen-deposition in the liver. Such events are mostly modulated upstream of HSCs and involve signals from hepatocytes and innate immune cells. One particular event is represented by cell death during liver injury that generates multiple inflammatory signals that further trigger sterile inflammation and enhancement of inflammatory response. The assembly of inflammasome that responds to danger-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) stimulates the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and at the same time, initiates programmed cell death called pyroptosis. This review focuses on cellular and molecular mechanisms responsible for initiation and progress of inflammation in the liver.
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31
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Fasbender F, Obholzer M, Metzler S, Stöber R, Hengstler JG, Watzl C. Enhanced activation of human NK cells by drug-exposed hepatocytes. Arch Toxicol 2020; 94:439-448. [PMID: 32060585 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-020-02668-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2020] [Accepted: 02/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Drug-induced liver injury (DILI) represents one of the major causes why drugs have to be withdrawn from the market. In this study, we describe a new interaction between drug-exposed hepatocytes and natural killer (NK) cells. In a previous genome-wide expression analysis of primary human hepatocytes that had been exposed to clinically relevant concentrations of 148 drugs, we found that several activating ligands for NK cell receptors were regulated by various drugs (e.g., valproic acid, ketoconazole, promethazine, isoniazid). Especially expression of the activating NKG2D ligands (MICA, MICB and ULBPs) and the NKp30 ligand B7-H6 were upregulated in primary human hepatocytes upon exposure to many different drugs. Using the human hepatocyte cell lines Huh7 and HepG2, we confirmed that protein levels of activating NK cell ligands were elevated after drug exposure. Hepatocyte cell lines or primary human hepatocytes co-cultivated with NK cells caused enhanced NK cell activation after pretreatment with drugs at in vivo relevant concentrations compared to solvent controls. Enhanced NK cell activation was evident by increased cytotoxicity against hepatocytes and interferon (IFN)-γ production. NK cell activation could be blocked by specific antibodies against activating NK cell receptors. These data support the hypothesis that NK cells can modulate drug-induced liver injury by direct interaction with hepatocytes resulting in cytotoxicity and IFN-γ production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank Fasbender
- Department of Immunology, Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors at the Technical University Dortmund (IfADo), Ardeystrasse 67, 44139, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Martin Obholzer
- Department of Immunology, Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors at the Technical University Dortmund (IfADo), Ardeystrasse 67, 44139, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Sarah Metzler
- Department of Immunology, Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors at the Technical University Dortmund (IfADo), Ardeystrasse 67, 44139, Dortmund, Germany
- Department of Toxicology, Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors at the Technical University Dortmund (IfADo), Ardeystrasse 67, 44139, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Regina Stöber
- Department of Toxicology, Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors at the Technical University Dortmund (IfADo), Ardeystrasse 67, 44139, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Jan G Hengstler
- Department of Toxicology, Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors at the Technical University Dortmund (IfADo), Ardeystrasse 67, 44139, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Carsten Watzl
- Department of Immunology, Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors at the Technical University Dortmund (IfADo), Ardeystrasse 67, 44139, Dortmund, Germany.
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Khomich O, Ivanov AV, Bartosch B. Metabolic Hallmarks of Hepatic Stellate Cells in Liver Fibrosis. Cells 2019; 9:E24. [PMID: 31861818 PMCID: PMC7016711 DOI: 10.3390/cells9010024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2019] [Revised: 12/09/2019] [Accepted: 12/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a regenerative process that occurs after injury. It is characterized by the deposition of connective tissue by specialized fibroblasts and concomitant proliferative responses. Chronic damage that stimulates fibrogenic processes in the long-term may result in the deposition of excess matrix tissue and impairment of liver functions. End-stage fibrosis is referred to as cirrhosis and predisposes strongly to the loss of liver functions (decompensation) and hepatocellular carcinoma. Liver fibrosis is a pathology common to a number of different chronic liver diseases, including alcoholic liver disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and viral hepatitis. The predominant cell type responsible for fibrogenesis is hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). In response to inflammatory stimuli or hepatocyte death, HSCs undergo trans-differentiation to myofibroblast-like cells. Recent evidence shows that metabolic alterations in HSCs are important for the trans-differentiation process and thus offer new possibilities for therapeutic interventions. The aim of this review is to summarize current knowledge of the metabolic changes that occur during HSC activation with a particular focus on the retinol and lipid metabolism, the central carbon metabolism, and associated redox or stress-related signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Khomich
- INSERM, U1052, Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), Université de Lyon (UCBL1), CNRS UMR_5286, Centre Léon Bérard, CEDEX 03, 69424 Lyon, France;
- Center for Precision Genome Editing and Genetic Technologies for Biomedicine, Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Alexander V. Ivanov
- Center for Precision Genome Editing and Genetic Technologies for Biomedicine, Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Birke Bartosch
- INSERM, U1052, Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), Université de Lyon (UCBL1), CNRS UMR_5286, Centre Léon Bérard, CEDEX 03, 69424 Lyon, France;
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Liu YT, Lv WL. Research Progress in Astragalus Membranaceus and Its Active Components on Immune Responses in Liver Fibrosis. Chin J Integr Med 2019; 26:794-800. [DOI: 10.1007/s11655-019-3039-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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KLRG1+ natural killer cells exert a novel antifibrotic function in chronic hepatitis B. J Hepatol 2019; 71:252-264. [PMID: 30905683 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2019.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2018] [Revised: 03/06/2019] [Accepted: 03/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Natural killer (NK) cells are known to exert strong antiviral activity. Killer cell lectin-like receptor subfamily G member 1 (KLRG1) is expressed by terminally differentiated NK cells and KLRG1-expressing lymphocytes are known to expand following chronic viral infections. We aimed to elucidate the previously unknown role of KLRG1 in the pathogenesis of chronic hepatitis B (CHB). METHODS KLRG1+ NK cells were taken from the blood and liver of healthy individuals and patients with CHB. The phenotype and function of these cells was assessed using flow cytometry and in vitro stimulation. RESULTS Patients with CHB had a higher frequency of KLRG1+ NK cells compared to healthy controls (blood 13.4 vs. 2.3%, p <0.0001 and liver 23.4 vs. 2.6%, p <0.01). KLRG1+ NK cells were less responsive to K562 and cytokine stimulation, but demonstrated enhanced cytotoxicity (9.0 vs. 4.8%, p <0.05) and IFN-γ release (8.0 vs. 1.5%, p <0.05) via antibody dependent cellular cytotoxicity compared to their KLRG1- counterparts. KLRG1+ NK cells possessed a mature phenotype, demonstrating stronger cytolytic activity and IFN-γ secretion against hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) than KLRG1- NK cells. Moreover, KLRG1+ NK cells more effectively induced primary HSC apoptosis in a TRAIL-dependent manner. Increased KLRG1+ NK cell frequency in the liver and blood was associated with lower fibrosis stage (F0/F1) in patients with CHB. Finally, the expression of CD44, degranulation and IFN-γ production were all increased in KLRG1+ NK cells following stimulation with osteopontin, the CD44 ligand, suggesting that HSC-derived osteopontin may cause KLRG1+ NK cell activation. CONCLUSIONS KLRG1+ NK cells likely play an antifibrotic role during the natural course of CHB infection. Harnessing this antifibrotic function may provide a novel therapeutic approach to treat liver fibrosis in patients with CHB. LAY SUMMARY Individuals that are chronically infected with hepatitis B virus (HBV) possess an increased number of immune cells, called natural killer (NK) cells expressing the surface marker KLRG1 in the blood and liver. Here, we demonstrate that these specific NK cells are able to kill activated stellate cells in the liver. Because activated stellate cells contribute to liver scarring, i.e. fibrosis, and subsequent liver dysfunction in individuals with chronic HBV infection, KLRG1+ NK cells are a novel immune cell type that can limit liver scarring.
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Choi WM, Kim MH, Jeong WI. Functions of hepatic non-parenchymal cells in alcoholic liver disease. LIVER RESEARCH 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.livres.2019.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Interplay between early-life malnutrition, epigenetic modulation of the immune function and liver diseases. Nutr Res Rev 2019; 32:128-145. [PMID: 30707092 DOI: 10.1017/s0954422418000239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Early-life nutrition plays a critical role in fetal growth and development. Food intake absence and excess are the two main types of energy malnutrition that predispose to the appearance of diseases in adulthood, according to the hypothesis of 'developmental origins of health and disease'. Epidemiological data have shown an association between early-life malnutrition and the metabolic syndrome in later life. Evidence has also demonstrated that nutrition during this period of life can affect the development of the immune system through epigenetic mechanisms. Thus, epigenetics has an essential role in the complex interplay between environmental factors and genetics. Altogether, this leads to the inflammatory response that is commonly seen in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), the hepatic manifestation of the metabolic syndrome. In conjunction, DNA methylation, covalent modification of histones and the expression of non-coding RNA are the epigenetic phenomena that affect inflammatory processes in the context of NAFLD. Here, we highlight current understanding of the mechanisms underlying developmental programming of NAFLD linked to epigenetic modulation of the immune system and environmental factors, such as malnutrition.
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Liu YM, Shi HB, Liu YR, Shi HL, Ren F, Chen Y, Chen DX, Lou JL, Duan ZP. Protective Effect of Ganshuang Granules () on Liver Cirrhosis by Suppressing Regulatory T Cells in Mouse Model. Chin J Integr Med 2019; 25:51-58. [PMID: 26542309 DOI: 10.1007/s11655-015-2430-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/10/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the potential antifibrotic mechanisms of Chinese medicine Ganshuang Granules (, GSG) and to provide clinical therapeutic evidence of its effects. METHODS A cirrhotic mouse model was established by intraperitoneally injecting a mixture of CCl4 (40%) and oil (60%) at 0.2 mL per 100 g of body weight twice a week for 12 weeks. After 12-week modeling, GSG was intragastric administrated to the mice for 2 weeks, and the mice were divided into low-, medium- and high-dose groups at doses of 1, 2 and 4 g/(kg·day), respectively. Liver morphology changes were observed using Masson's trichrome staining and B-ultrasound. The levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and hyaluronic acid (HA) in serum were detected using an automatic biochemistry analyzer. The expressions of desmin, smooth muscle actin (SMA) and Foxp3 in liver were detected by immunoflfluorescence. The regulatory T cell (Treg) frequency was determined through flflow cytometry analysis. Collagen-I, SMA, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-1β and transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) expression levels were measured using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). RESULTS Masson's staining result showed fewer pseudolobule structures and fibrous connective tissue in the GSG-treatment groups than in the spontaneous recovery group. Ultrasonography showed that GSG treatment reduced the number of punctate hyperechoic lesions in mice cirrhotic livers. The serum ALT, AST, HA levels were significantly ameliorated by GSG treatment (ALT: F=8.104, P=0.000; AST: F=7.078, P=0.002; and HA: F=7.621, P=0.001). The expression levels of collagen-I and SMA in the cirrhotic livers were also attenuated by GSG treatment (collagen-I: F=3.938, P=0.011; SMA: F=4.115, P=0.009). Tregs, which were elevated in the fibrotic livers, were suppressed by GSG treatment (F=8.268, P=0.001). The expressions of IL-6, TNF-α and IL-1β increased, and TGF-β levels decreased in the cirrhotic livers after GSG treatment (IL-6: F=5.457, P=0.004; TNF-α: F=6.023, P=0.002; IL-1β: F=6.658, P=0.001; and TGF-β1: F=11.239, P=0.000). CONCLUSIONS GSG promoted the resolution/regression of cirrhosis and restored liver functions in part by suppressing Treg cell differentiation, which may be mediated by hepatic stellate cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Min Liu
- Department of Liver Diseases Immunology, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Hong-Bo Shi
- Department of Liver Diseases Immunology, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
- Beijing Institute of Hepatology, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Yi-Rong Liu
- Department of Toxic Hepatic Disease, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Hong-Lin Shi
- Department of Liver Diseases Immunology, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
- Beijing Institute of Hepatology, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Feng Ren
- Department of Liver Diseases Immunology, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
- Beijing Institute of Hepatology, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Yu Chen
- Artifical Liver Center, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - De-Xi Chen
- Department of Liver Diseases Immunology, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
- Beijing Institute of Hepatology, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Jin-Li Lou
- Clinical Laboratory Center, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Zhong-Ping Duan
- Artifical Liver Center, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China.
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Effect of Natural Compounds on NK Cell Activation. J Immunol Res 2018; 2018:4868417. [PMID: 30671486 PMCID: PMC6323526 DOI: 10.1155/2018/4868417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2018] [Revised: 11/29/2018] [Accepted: 12/04/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are lymphocytes of the innate immune system that survey the body for stressed and abnormal cells. The integration of signals that they receive through various inhibitory and activating cell surface receptors controls their activation and ability to kill target cells and produce cytokines. In this manner, phenotypically and functionally distinct subsets of NK cells help protect against microbial infections and cancer and shape the adaptive immune response. NK cells can use two different mechanisms to kill their targets, either by cytotoxic granule exocytosis or by induction of death receptor-mediated apoptosis. Death ligands belong to the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) family of ligands. Upon release in close proximity to a cell slated for killing, perforin forms pores in the cell membrane of the target cell through which granzymes and associated molecules can enter and induce apoptosis. NK cells are also involved in antibody-dependent cellular toxicity via the CD16 receptor. In addition to target recognition, NK cells can be also activated by treatment with multiple compounds with stimulatory properties. Apart from interleukins, which belong to the best characterized group of NK cell-stimulating compounds, vitamins and constituents extracted from plants also display the ability to activate NK cells. The current review characterizes several groups of NK cell-activating compounds: vitamins belonging to classes A, B, C, D, and E, polysaccharides, lectins, and a number of phytochemicals used in cancer research, exhibiting stimulatory properties when applied to NK cells. Although in most cases the exact mechanism of action is not known, constituents described in this review seem to be promising candidates for NK cell-stimulating drugs.
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Jophlin LL, Koutalos Y, Chen C, Shah V, Rockey DC. Hepatic stellate cells retain retinoid-laden lipid droplets after cellular transdifferentiation into activated myofibroblasts. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2018; 315:G713-G721. [PMID: 30024770 PMCID: PMC6293250 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00251.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Loss of retinyl ester (RE)-rich lipid droplets (LDs) from hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) is cited as a key event in their cellular transdifferentiation to activated, pro-fibrotic myofibroblasts; however, it remains unclear if changes in LD morphology or RE content are causal for transdifferentiation. To better understand LD dynamics in vitro within a common model of HSC activation, we used novel approaches preserving LD morphology and allowing for quantitation of RE. The size and quantity of LDs within in vitro and in vivo bile duct ligation (BDL)-activated HSCs were quantitated using adipocyte differentiation-related protein (ADRP) labeling and oil red o (ORO) staining (gold standard), and RE content was determined using fluorescence microscopy. We found during HSC activation in vitro that LD number differed significantly when measured by ADRP and ORO, respectively ( day 1: 56 vs. 5, P = 0.03; day 4: 101 vs. 39, P = 0.03; day 14: 241 vs. 12, P = 0.02). Ex vivo HSCs activated in vivo contained the same number of LDs as day 4 in vitro activated HSCs (118 vs. 101, P = 0.54). Decline in LD RE occurred beyond day 4 in vitro and day 1 ex vivo , after HSC transdifferentiation was underway. Lastly, in situ HSCs examined using electron microscopy show LDs tend to be smaller but are ultimately retained in BDL injured livers. Therefore, we conclude that during HSC transdifferentiation, LDs are not lost but are retained, decreasing in size. Additionally, RE content declines after transdifferentiation is underway. These data suggest that these LD changes are not causal for HSC transdifferentiation. NEW & NOTEWORTHY Loss of retinoid-laden lipid droplets from hepatic stellate cells has long been held as a hallmark of their transdifferentiation into activated myofibroblasts, the dominant cells that drive hepatic fibrosis. This study demonstrates that stellate cells activated in culture and after liver injury in vivo retain their lipid droplets and that these droplets become smaller and more numerous, with decreases in droplet retinoid concentration occurring only after cellular transdifferentiation is underway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loretta L. Jophlin
- 1Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina,3Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Yiannis Koutalos
- 2Department of Ophthalmology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Chunhe Chen
- 2Department of Ophthalmology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Vijay Shah
- 3Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Don C. Rockey
- 1Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
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Yi DQ, Yang XF, Liao DF, Wu Q, Fu N, Hu Y, Cao T. Effect of Autophagy Over Liver Diseases. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 31:65-68. [PMID: 28031092 DOI: 10.1016/s1001-9294(16)30026-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, increasingly evidences show that autophagy plays an important role in the pathogenesis and development of liver diseases, and the relationship between them has increasingly become a focus of concern. Autophagy refers to the process through which the impaired organelles, misfolded protein, and intruding microorganisms is degraded by lysosomes to maintain stability inside cells. This article states the effect of autophagy on liver diseases (hepatic fibrosis, fatty liver, viral hepatitis, and liver cancer), which aims to provide a new direction for the treatment of liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong-Qian Yi
- Department of Digestion Internal Medicine, the Affiliated Nanhua Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang 421000, Hunan, China
| | - Xue-Feng Yang
- Department of Digestion Internal Medicine, the Affiliated Nanhua Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang 421000, Hunan, China
| | - Duan-Fang Liao
- Department of Pathology, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, China
| | - Qing Wu
- Department of Digestion Internal Medicine, the Affiliated Nanhua Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang 421000, Hunan, China
| | - Nian Fu
- Department of Digestion Internal Medicine, the Affiliated Nanhua Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang 421000, Hunan, China
| | - Yang Hu
- Department of Digestion Internal Medicine, the Affiliated Nanhua Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang 421000, Hunan, China
| | - Ting Cao
- Department of Digestion Internal Medicine, the Affiliated Nanhua Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang 421000, Hunan, China
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Peng Y, Yang T, Huang K, Shen L, Tao Y, Liu C. Salvia Miltiorrhiza Ameliorates Liver Fibrosis by Activating Hepatic Natural Killer Cells in Vivo and in Vitro. Front Pharmacol 2018; 9:762. [PMID: 30061833 PMCID: PMC6054956 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.00762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2018] [Accepted: 06/22/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are known for their ability to kill activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), which has been confirmed both in patients and animal models. But the killing function is depressed in period of advanced liver injury. Salvia Miltiorrhiza (SM), a Chinese herbal medicine for invigorating blood circulation and eliminating stasis, is widely used to treat liver fibrosis in clinic. Nevertheless, the immunological mechanism remains unclearly. Here, we put forward the hypothesis that the anti-fibrotic effect of SM is concerned with boosting the activation of hepatic NK cells. Liver fibrosis was induced with carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) and effects of SM on NK cells and HSC (JS-1 cell line, HSC) were investigated in vivo and in vitro. Hepatic NK cells were isolated from C57BL/6 mice, and pre-incubated with SM before they were co-cultured with HSCs. We found that SM increased frequency of NK cells, enhanced activities of NKG2D and Nkp46 on NK cells and inhibited activation of HSCs in vivo and in vitro. SM could promote the activities of NK cells by increasing the expressions of NKG2D and IFN-γ before or after co-cultured with HSCs in vitro. Besides, SM could partially antagonize ASGM-1-induced NK cell depletion and enhance the cell activities to inhibit HSCs activation in vitro. Therefore, our work provided a new insight into the anti-fibrotic mechanism that SM could enhance the activities of NK cell to reduce liver fibrosis in vivo and in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Peng
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Tao Yang
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Department of Cardiology, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Kai Huang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Li Shen
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanyan Tao
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Chenghai Liu
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases, Ministry of Education, Shanghai, China
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Shen Y, Li J, Wang SQ, Jiang W. Ambiguous roles of innate lymphoid cells in chronic development of liver diseases. World J Gastroenterol 2018; 24:1962-1977. [PMID: 29760540 PMCID: PMC5949710 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v24.i18.1962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2018] [Revised: 04/25/2018] [Accepted: 05/06/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) are defined as a distinct arm of innate immunity. According to their profile of secreted cytokines and lineage-specific transcriptional factors, ILCs can be categorized into the following three groups: group 1 ILCs (including natural killer (NK) cells and ILC1s) are dependent on T-bet and can produce interferon-γ; group 2 ILCs (ILC2s) are dependent on GATA3 and can produce type 2 cytokines, including interleukin (IL)-5 and IL-13; and, group 3 ILCs (including lymphoid tissue-like cells and ILC3s) are dependent on RORγt and can produce IL-22 and IL-17. Collaborative with adaptive immunity, ILCs are highly reactive innate effectors that promptly orchestrate immunity, inflammation and tissue repair. Dysregulation of ILCs might result in inflammatory disorders. Evidence regarding the function of intrahepatic ILCs is emerging from longitudinal studies of inflammatory liver diseases wherein they exert both physiological and pathological functions, including immune homeostasis, defenses and surveillance. Their overall effect on the liver depends on the balance of their proinflammatory and antiinflammatory populations, specific microenvironment and stages of immune responses. Here, we review the current data about ILCs in chronic liver disease progression, to reveal their roles in different stages as well as to discuss their therapeutic potency as intervention targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Shen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Jing Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai 200000, China
| | - Si-Qi Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Wei Jiang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
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Shin S, Kim M, Lee SJ, Park KS, Lee CH. Trichostatin A Sensitizes Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells to Enhanced NK Cell-mediated Killing by Regulating Immune-related Genes. Cancer Genomics Proteomics 2018; 14:349-362. [PMID: 28871002 DOI: 10.21873/cgp.20045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2017] [Revised: 07/18/2017] [Accepted: 07/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIM Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the second leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. The ability of HCC to avoid immune detection is considered one of the main factors making it difficult to cure. Abnormal histone deacetylation is thought to be one of the mechanisms for HCC immune escape, making histone deacetylases (HDACs) attractive targets for HCC treatment. Here, we investigated the effect of trichostatin A (TSA), a highly potent HDAC inhibitor, on HCC (HepG2) gene expression and function. MATERIALS AND METHODS A genome wide-transcriptional microarray was used to identify genes regulated by TSA in HepG2 cells. Gene Ontology was used to identify pathways regulated by TSA, and these changes were confirmed by qPCR. The effect of TSA on natural killer (NK) cell-mediated killing of HCC cell lines were analyzed by both flow cytometry and LDH cytotoxicity assay. A study was also conducted in a Balb/c nude mice xenograft model to assess the anti-tumor activity of TSA. RESULTS TSA regulated the transcription of numerous innate immunity & tumor antigen recognition-associated genes, such as ULBP1 and RAET1G, in HCC cells. In vivo, TSA reduced tumor cell growth in an NK cell-dependent manner. In vitro, TSA treatment of HepG2 cells rendered them more susceptible to NK cell-mediated killing while increasing the expression of NKGD2 ligands, including ULBP1/2/3 and MICA/B. TSA also induced direct killing of HCC cells by stimulating apoptosis. CONCLUSION TSA likely increases killing of HCC cells indirectly by increasing NK cell-directed killing and directly by increasing apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sangsu Shin
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, Kyungpook National University, Sangju, Republic of Korea
| | - Miok Kim
- Immunotherapy Convergence Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience & Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, Republic of Korea.,Bio & Drug Discovery Division, Center for Drug Discovery Technology, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Seon-Jin Lee
- Immunotherapy Convergence Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience & Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Kang-Seo Park
- Department of Oncology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Chang Hoon Lee
- Immunotherapy Convergence Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience & Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, Republic of Korea .,Bio & Drug Discovery Division, Center for Drug Discovery Technology, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
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Wahid B, Ali A, Rafique S, Saleem K, Waqar M, Wasim M, Idrees M. Role of altered immune cells in liver diseases: a review. GASTROENTEROLOGIA Y HEPATOLOGIA 2018; 41:377-388. [PMID: 29605453 DOI: 10.1016/j.gastrohep.2018.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2017] [Revised: 01/12/2018] [Accepted: 01/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Immune cells play an important role in controlling liver tumorigenesis, viral hepatitis, liver fibrosis and contribute to pathogenesis of liver inflammation and injury. Accumulating evidence suggests the effectiveness of natural killer (NK) cells and Kupffer cells (KCs) against viral hepatitis, hepatocellular damage, liver fibrosis, and carcinogenesis. Activation of natural killer cells provides a novel therapeutic strategy to cure liver related diseases. This review discusses the emerging roles of immune cells in liver disorders and it will provide baseline data to scientists to design better therapies for treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Braira Wahid
- Centre for Applied Molecular Biology (CAMB), 87-West Canal Bank Road Thokar Niaz Baig, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan; Genome Centre for Molecular Based Diagnostics and Research, Al-Sudais Plaza Abdalian Cooperative Society, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Amjad Ali
- Genome Centre for Molecular Based Diagnostics and Research, Al-Sudais Plaza Abdalian Cooperative Society, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Shazia Rafique
- Genome Centre for Molecular Based Diagnostics and Research, Al-Sudais Plaza Abdalian Cooperative Society, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Komal Saleem
- Centre for Applied Molecular Biology (CAMB), 87-West Canal Bank Road Thokar Niaz Baig, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan; Genome Centre for Molecular Based Diagnostics and Research, Al-Sudais Plaza Abdalian Cooperative Society, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Waqar
- Centre for Applied Molecular Biology (CAMB), 87-West Canal Bank Road Thokar Niaz Baig, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan; Genome Centre for Molecular Based Diagnostics and Research, Al-Sudais Plaza Abdalian Cooperative Society, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Wasim
- Department of Medicine, Khyber Teaching Hospital Peshawar KPK, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Idrees
- Centre for Applied Molecular Biology (CAMB), 87-West Canal Bank Road Thokar Niaz Baig, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan; Genome Centre for Molecular Based Diagnostics and Research, Al-Sudais Plaza Abdalian Cooperative Society, Lahore, Pakistan; Department of Medicine, Khyber Teaching Hospital Peshawar KPK, Pakistan; Division of Molecular Virology and Diagnostics Center of Excellence in Molecular Biology (CEMB), 87-West Canal Bank Road Thokar Niaz Baig, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan; Vice Chancellor Hazara University Mansehra, Pakistan.
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Chen M, Liu J, Yang W, Ling W. Lipopolysaccharide mediates hepatic stellate cell activation by regulating autophagy and retinoic acid signaling. Autophagy 2017; 13:1813-1827. [PMID: 29160747 DOI: 10.1080/15548627.2017.1356550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Bacterial translocation and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) leakage occur at a very early stage of liver fibrosis in animal models. We studied the role of LPS in hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation and the underlying mechanisms in vitro and in vivo. Herein, we demonstrated that LPS treatment led to a dramatic increase in autophagosome formation and autophagic flux in LX-2 cells and HSCs, which was mediated through the AKT-MTOR and AMPK-ULK1 pathway. LPS significantly decreased the lipid content, including the lipid droplet (LD) number and lipid staining area in HSCs; pretreatment with macroautophagy/autophagy inhibitors or silencing ATG5 attenuated this decrease. Furthermore, lipophagy was induced by LPS through the autophagy-lysosomal pathway in LX-2 cells and HSCs. Additionally, LPS-induced autophagy further reduced retinoic acid (RA) signaling, as demonstrated by a decrease in the intracellular RA level and Rar target genes, resulting in the downregulation of Bambi and promoting the sensitization of the HSC's fibrosis response to TGFB. Compared with CCl4 injection alone, CCl4 plus LPS injection exaggerated liver fibrosis in mice, as demonstrated by increased Col1a1 (collagen, type I, α 1), Acta2, Tgfb and Timp1 mRNA expression, ACTA2/α-SMA and COL1A1 protein expression, and Sirius Red staining area, which could be attenuated by injection of an autophagy inhibitor. LPS also reduced lipid content in HSCs in vivo, with this change being attenuated by chloroquine (CQ) administration. In conclusion, LPS-induced autophagy resulted in LD loss, RA signaling dysfunction, and downregulation of the TGFB pseudoreceptor Bambi, thus sensitizing HSCs to TGFB signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Chen
- a Department of Nutrition , School of Public Health, Sun Yat-Sen University , Guangzhou , Guangdong , People's Republic of China.,b Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Food, Nutrition and Health , Guangzhou , Guangdong , China
| | - Jiaxing Liu
- a Department of Nutrition , School of Public Health, Sun Yat-Sen University , Guangzhou , Guangdong , People's Republic of China.,b Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Food, Nutrition and Health , Guangzhou , Guangdong , China
| | - Wenqi Yang
- a Department of Nutrition , School of Public Health, Sun Yat-Sen University , Guangzhou , Guangdong , People's Republic of China.,b Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Food, Nutrition and Health , Guangzhou , Guangdong , China
| | - Wenhua Ling
- a Department of Nutrition , School of Public Health, Sun Yat-Sen University , Guangzhou , Guangdong , People's Republic of China.,b Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Food, Nutrition and Health , Guangzhou , Guangdong , China
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Jie Z, Liang Y, Yi P, Tang H, Soong L, Cong Y, Zhang K, Sun J. Retinoic Acid Regulates Immune Responses by Promoting IL-22 and Modulating S100 Proteins in Viral Hepatitis. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2017; 198:3448-3460. [PMID: 28363907 PMCID: PMC5436614 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1601891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2016] [Accepted: 03/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Although large amounts of vitamin A and its metabolite all-trans retinoic acid (RA) are stored in the liver, how RA regulates liver immune responses during viral infection remains unclear. In this study, we demonstrated that IL-22, mainly produced by hepatic γδ T cells, attenuated liver injury in adenovirus-infected mice. RA can promote γδ T cells to produce mTORC1-dependent IL-22 in the liver, but inhibits IFN-γ and IL-17. RA also affected the aptitude of T cell responses by modulating dendritic cell (DC) migration and costimulatory molecule expression. These results suggested that RA plays an immunomodulatory role in viral infection. Proteomics data revealed that RA downregulated S100 family protein expression in DCs, as well as NF-κB/ERK pathway activation in these cells. Furthermore, adoptive transfer of S100A4-repressed, virus-pulsed DCs into the hind foot of naive mice failed to prime T cell responses in draining lymph nodes. Our study has demonstrated a crucial role for RA in promoting IL-22 production and tempering DC function through downregulating S100 family proteins during viral hepatitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuliang Jie
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute for Human Infections and Immunity, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555-1070
| | - Yuejin Liang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute for Human Infections and Immunity, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555-1070
| | - Panpan Yi
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute for Human Infections and Immunity, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555-1070
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis of Hunan, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Hui Tang
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Institute for Human Infections and Immunity, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555-1070; and
| | - Lynn Soong
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute for Human Infections and Immunity, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555-1070
- Department of Pathology, Institute for Human Infections and Immunity, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555-1070
| | - Yingzi Cong
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute for Human Infections and Immunity, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555-1070
- Department of Pathology, Institute for Human Infections and Immunity, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555-1070
| | - Kangling Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Institute for Human Infections and Immunity, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555-1070; and
| | - Jiaren Sun
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute for Human Infections and Immunity, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555-1070;
- Department of Pathology, Institute for Human Infections and Immunity, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555-1070
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NOX4 Regulates CCR2 and CCL2 mRNA Stability in Alcoholic Liver Disease. Sci Rep 2017; 7:46144. [PMID: 28383062 PMCID: PMC5382722 DOI: 10.1038/srep46144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2016] [Accepted: 03/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Recruitment of inflammatory cells is a major feature of alcoholic liver injury however; the signals and cellular sources regulating this are not well defined. C-C chemokine receptor type 2 (CCR2) is expressed by active hepatic stellate cells (HSC) and is a key monocyte recruitment signal. Activated HSC are also important sources of hydrogen peroxide resulting from the activation of NADPH oxidase 4 (NOX4). As the role of this NOX in early alcoholic liver injury has not been addressed, we studied NOX4-mediated regulation of CCR2/CCL2 mRNA stability. NOX4 mRNA was significantly induced in patients with alcoholic liver injury, and was co-localized with αSMA-expressing activated HSC. We generated HSC-specific NOX4 KO mice and these were pair-fed on alcohol diet. Lipid peroxidation have not changed significantly however, the expression of CCR2, CCL2, Ly6C, TNFα, and IL-6 was significantly reduced in NOX4HSCKO compared to fl/fl mice. NOX4 promoter was induced in HSC by acetaldehyde treatment, and NOX4 has significantly increased mRNA half-life of CCR2 and CCL2 in conjunction with Ser221 phosphorylation and cytoplasmic shuttling of HuR. In conclusion, NOX4 is induced in early alcoholic liver injury and regulates CCR2/CCL2 mRNA stability thereby promoting recruitment of inflammatory cells and production of proinflammatory cytokines.
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The stellate cell system (vitamin A-storing cell system). Anat Sci Int 2017; 92:387-455. [PMID: 28299597 DOI: 10.1007/s12565-017-0395-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2016] [Accepted: 02/15/2017] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Past, present, and future research into hepatic stellate cells (HSCs, also called vitamin A-storing cells, lipocytes, interstitial cells, fat-storing cells, or Ito cells) are summarized and discussed in this review. Kupffer discovered black-stained cells in the liver using the gold chloride method and named them stellate cells (Sternzellen in German) in 1876. Wake rediscovered the cells in 1971 using the same gold chloride method and various modern histological techniques including electron microscopy. Between their discovery and rediscovery, HSCs disappeared from the research history. Their identification, the establishment of cell isolation and culture methods, and the development of cellular and molecular biological techniques promoted HSC research after their rediscovery. In mammals, HSCs exist in the space between liver parenchymal cells (PCs) or hepatocytes and liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) of the hepatic lobule, and store 50-80% of all vitamin A in the body as retinyl ester in lipid droplets in the cytoplasm. SCs also exist in extrahepatic organs such as pancreas, lung, and kidney. Hepatic (HSCs) and extrahepatic stellate cells (EHSCs) form the stellate cell (SC) system or SC family; the main storage site of vitamin A in the body is HSCs in the liver. In pathological conditions such as liver fibrosis, HSCs lose vitamin A, and synthesize a large amount of extracellular matrix (ECM) components including collagen, proteoglycan, glycosaminoglycan, and adhesive glycoproteins. The morphology of these cells also changes from the star-shaped HSCs to that of fibroblasts or myofibroblasts.
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Shi J, Zhao J, Zhang X, Cheng Y, Hu J, Li Y, Zhao X, Shang Q, Sun Y, Tu B, Shi L, Gao B, Wang FS, Zhang Z. Activated hepatic stellate cells impair NK cell anti-fibrosis capacity through a TGF-β-dependent emperipolesis in HBV cirrhotic patients. Sci Rep 2017; 7:44544. [PMID: 28291251 PMCID: PMC5349579 DOI: 10.1038/srep44544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2016] [Accepted: 02/09/2017] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells can induce liver fibrosis remission by killing hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and producing interferon (IFN)-γ in a mouse model; however, their anti-fibrotic immune-characteristics and regulatory mechanisms by HSCs remain to be determined, especially in livers from HBV-infected liver cirrhosis (LC) patients. We analyzed frequency, phenotype and anti-fibrotic function of hepatic and peripheral NK subsets in 43 HBV-LC patients. We found that hepatic NK subsets from LC patients displayed a decreased frequency, activation status and anti-fibrotic activity compared with those from chronic hepatitis B patients, which were mainly mediated by increased intrahepatic tumour-growth factor (TGF)-β because blockade of TGF-β significantly reversed NK anti-fibrotic function in vitro. In vivo, hepatic NK cells were enriched in proximity to the α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA+) area within mild fibrosis regions; while in severe fibrotic areas, they were either directly attached to or separated from the α-SMA+ region. NK cells from LC patients could enter HSCs to form emperipolesis (a cell-in-cell structure) and become apoptotic; anti-TGF-β treatment ameliorated this emperipolesis. This finding suggested a novel mechanism by which activated HSCs impair NK cells’ anti-fibrosis capacity through a TGF-β-dependent emperipolesis in LC patients, providing an anti-fibrotic rational by enhancing NK cell activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jijing Shi
- Department of Infectious Diseases, 302 Military Hospital of China-Peking University Teaching Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Juanjuan Zhao
- Research Center for Clinical &Translational Medicine, Beijing 302 Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Beijing 302 Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Yongqian Cheng
- Research Center for International Liver Disease, Beijing 302 Hospital, Beijing 100039, China
| | - Jinhua Hu
- Research Center for Liver Failure, Beijing 302 Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Yuanyuan Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Beijing 302 Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Xin Zhao
- Forensic Sursery Center, Beijing 302 Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Qinghua Shang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, 88th Hospital of PLA, Taian, 271000, China
| | - Yanling Sun
- Research Center for Clinical &Translational Medicine, Beijing 302 Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Bo Tu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Beijing 302 Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Lei Shi
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Beijing 302 Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Bin Gao
- Laboratory of Liver Diseases, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Fu-Sheng Wang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, 302 Military Hospital of China-Peking University Teaching Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Zheng Zhang
- Research Center for Clinical &Translational Medicine, Beijing 302 Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
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