51
|
Parafati M, Kirby RJ, Khorasanizadeh S, Rastinejad F, Malany S. A nonalcoholic fatty liver disease model in human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived hepatocytes, created by endoplasmic reticulum stress-induced steatosis. Dis Model Mech 2018; 11:11/9/dmm033530. [PMID: 30254132 PMCID: PMC6176998 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.033530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2018] [Accepted: 08/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatic steatosis, a reversible state of metabolic dysregulation, can promote the onset of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), and its transition is thought to be critical in disease evolution. The association between endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress response and hepatocyte metabolism disorders prompted us to characterize ER stress-induced hepatic metabolic dysfunction in human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived hepatocytes (hiPSC-Hep), to explore regulatory pathways and validate a phenotypic in vitro model for progression of liver steatosis. We treated hiPSC-Hep with a ratio of unsaturated and saturated fatty acids in the presence of an inducer of ER stress to synergistically promote triglyceride accumulation and dysregulate lipid metabolism. We monitored lipid accumulation by high-content imaging and measured gene regulation by RNA sequencing and reverse transcription quantitative PCR analyses. Our results show that ER stress potentiated intracellular lipid accumulation by 5-fold in hiPSC-Hep in the absence of apoptosis. Transcriptome pathway analysis identified ER stress pathways as the most significantly dysregulated of all pathways affected. Obeticholic acid dose dependently inhibited lipid accumulation and modulated gene expression downstream of the farnesoid X receptor. We were able to identify modulation of hepatic markers and gene pathways known to be involved in steatosis and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), in support of a hiPSC-Hep disease model that is relevant to clinical data for human NASH. Our results show that the model can serve as a translational discovery platform for the understanding of molecular pathways involved in NAFLD, and can facilitate the identification of novel therapeutic molecules based on high-throughput screening strategies. Summary: Our study demonstrates expanded use of human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived hepatocytes for molecular studies and drug screening, to evaluate new therapeutics with an antisteatotic mechanism of action for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maddalena Parafati
- Translational Biology, Conrad Prebys Center for Chemical Genomics, Orlando, FL 32827, USA
| | - R Jason Kirby
- Translational Biology, Conrad Prebys Center for Chemical Genomics, Orlando, FL 32827, USA
| | - Sepideh Khorasanizadeh
- Center for Metabolic Origins of Disease, Sanford Burham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, 6400 Sanger Rd, Orlando, FL 32827, USA
| | - Fraydoon Rastinejad
- Center for Metabolic Origins of Disease, Sanford Burham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, 6400 Sanger Rd, Orlando, FL 32827, USA
| | - Siobhan Malany
- Translational Biology, Conrad Prebys Center for Chemical Genomics, Orlando, FL 32827, USA
| |
Collapse
|
52
|
Human hepatic 3D spheroids as a model for steatosis and insulin resistance. Sci Rep 2018; 8:14297. [PMID: 30250238 PMCID: PMC6155201 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-32722-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2018] [Accepted: 09/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has emerged as a public health concern as reflected in its widespread distribution in the general population. Yet, treatment options are scarce which is at least in part due to lack of reliable human in vitro disease models. Here, we report a human hepatic 3D spheroid system cultured under defined chemical conditions that has the potential to mimic steatotic conditions in a reversible manner, useful for identification of novel drug treatment conditions. Primary human hepatocytes (PHH) from different donors were cultured as spheroid microtissues in physiological in vivo -like culture conditions. Hepatic steatosis was induced over the course of three weeks in culture by supplementing the culture medium with pathophysiological concentrations of free fatty acids, carbohydrates and insulin. Effects of steatosis in the 3D system were evaluated on transcriptional, metabolomic and lipidomic levels. Free fatty acids on one hand as well as a combination of insulin and monosaccharides, promoted lipid accumulation in hepatocytes and increased expression of lipogenic genes, such as fatty acid synthase. This milieu also promoted development of insulin resistance within 2 weeks as manifested by an increase in gluconeogenic and insulin resistance markers, which are observed in type 2 diabetes mellitus and metabolic syndrome. Induced steatosis was reversible after withdrawal of lipogenic substrates and a further reduction in cellular fat content was observed following treatment with different antisteatotic compounds, such as metformin, glucagon, olaparib and antioxidants. Taken together, these results demonstrate that the 3D hepatic spheroids can serve as a valuable, HTS compatible model for the study of liver steatosis and facilitate translational discovery of novel drug targets.
Collapse
|
53
|
Wu Q, Liu J, Liu L, Chen Y, Wang J, Leng L, Yu Q, Duan Z, Wang Y. Establishment of an ex Vivo Model of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Using a Tissue-Engineered Liver. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2018; 4:3016-3026. [PMID: 33435021 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.8b00652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Qiao Wu
- Artificial Liver Center, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
- Tissue Engineering Lab, Institute of Health Service and Transfusion Medicine, Beijing 100850, China
| | - Juan Liu
- Tissue Engineering Lab, Institute of Health Service and Transfusion Medicine, Beijing 100850, China
| | - Lijin Liu
- Tissue Engineering Lab, Institute of Health Service and Transfusion Medicine, Beijing 100850, China
| | - Yu Chen
- Artificial Liver Center, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Jie Wang
- Tissue Engineering Lab, Institute of Health Service and Transfusion Medicine, Beijing 100850, China
| | - Ling Leng
- Tissue Engineering Lab, Institute of Health Service and Transfusion Medicine, Beijing 100850, China
| | - Qunfang Yu
- Tissue Engineering Lab, Institute of Health Service and Transfusion Medicine, Beijing 100850, China
| | - Zhongping Duan
- Artificial Liver Center, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Yunfang Wang
- Tissue Engineering Lab, Institute of Health Service and Transfusion Medicine, Beijing 100850, China
| |
Collapse
|
54
|
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Bile acids act as activating signals of endogenous renal receptors: the nuclear receptor farnesoid X receptor (FXR) and the membrane-bound G protein-coupled bile acid receptor 1 (GPBAR1, also known as TGR5). In recent years, bile acids have emerged as important for renal pathophysiology by activating FXR and TGR5 and transcription factors relevant for lipid, cholesterol and carbohydrate metabolism, as well as genes involved in inflammation and renal fibrosis. RECENT FINDINGS Activation of bile acid receptors has a promising therapeutic potential in prevention of diabetic nephropathy and obesity-induced renal damage, as well as in nephrosclerosis. During the past decade, progress has been made in understanding the biology and mechanisms of bile acid receptors in the kidney and in the development of specific bile acid receptor agonists. SUMMARY In this review, we discuss current knowledge on the roles of FXR and TGR5 in the physiology of the kidney and the latest advances made in development and characterization of bile acid analogues that activate bile acid receptors for treatment of renal disease.
Collapse
|
55
|
Wu X, Roberto JB, Knupp A, Kenerson HL, Truong CD, Yuen SY, Brempelis KJ, Tuefferd M, Chen A, Horton H, Yeung RS, Crispe IN. Precision-cut human liver slice cultures as an immunological platform. J Immunol Methods 2018; 455:71-79. [PMID: 29408707 PMCID: PMC6689534 DOI: 10.1016/j.jim.2018.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2017] [Revised: 01/17/2018] [Accepted: 01/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The liver is the central metabolic organ in the human body, and also plays an essential role in innate and adaptive immunity. While mouse models offer significant insights into immune-inflammatory liver disease, human immunology differs in important respects. It is not easy to address those differences experimentally. Therefore, to improve the understanding of human liver immunobiology and pathology, we have established precision-cut human liver slices to study innate immunity in human tissue. Human liver slices collected from resected livers could be maintained in ex vivo culture over a two-week period. Although an acute inflammatory response accompanied by signs of tissue repair was observed in liver tissue following slicing, the expression of many immune genes stabilized after day 4 and remained stable until day 15. Remarkably, histological evidence of pre-existing liver diseases was preserved in the slices for up to 7 days. Following 7 days of culture, exposure of liver slices to the toll-like receptor (TLR) ligands, TLR3 ligand Poly-I:C and TLR4 ligand LPS, resulted in a robust activation of acute inflammation and cytokine genes. Moreover, Poly-I:C treatment induced a marked antiviral response including increases of interferons IFNB, IL-28B and a group of interferon-stimulated genes. Therefore, precision-cut liver slices emerge as a valuable tool to study human innate immunity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xia Wu
- Department of Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA.
| | - Jessica B Roberto
- Department of Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Allison Knupp
- Department of Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Heidi L Kenerson
- Department of Surgery, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Camtu D Truong
- Department of Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Sebastian Y Yuen
- Department of Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | | | - Marianne Tuefferd
- Infectious Diseases and Vaccines, Janssen Research and Development, B-2340 Beerse, Belgium
| | - Antony Chen
- Infectious Diseases and Vaccines, Janssen Research and Development, B-2340 Beerse, Belgium
| | - Helen Horton
- Infectious Diseases and Vaccines, Janssen Research and Development, B-2340 Beerse, Belgium
| | - Raymond S Yeung
- Department of Surgery, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Ian N Crispe
- Department of Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| |
Collapse
|
56
|
Jahn D, Geier A. Bile acids in nonalcoholic steatohepatitis: Pathophysiological driving force or innocent bystanders? Hepatology 2018; 67:464-466. [PMID: 28926117 DOI: 10.1002/hep.29543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2017] [Revised: 09/01/2017] [Accepted: 09/18/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Jahn
- Division of Hepatology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Andreas Geier
- Division of Hepatology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
57
|
Oseini AM, Cole BK, Issa D, Feaver RE, Sanyal AJ. Translating scientific discovery: the need for preclinical models of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. Hepatol Int 2018; 12:6-16. [PMID: 29299759 PMCID: PMC5815925 DOI: 10.1007/s12072-017-9838-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2017] [Accepted: 11/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common cause of chronic liver disease in the Western world, affecting about 1/3 of the US general population and remaining as a significant cause of morbidity and mortality. The hallmark of the disease is the excessive accumulation of fat within the liver cells (hepatocytes), which eventually paves the way to cellular stress, injury and apoptosis. NAFLD is strongly associated with components of the metabolic syndrome and is fast emerging as a leading cause of liver transplant in the USA. Based on clinico-pathologic classification, NAFLD may present as isolated lipid collection (steatosis) within the hepatocytes (referred to as non-alcoholic fatty liver; NAFL); or as the more aggressive phenotype (known as non-alcoholic steatohepatitis; NASH). There are currently no regulatory agency- approved medication for NAFLD, despite the enormous work and resources that have gone into the study of this condition. Therefore, there remains a huge unmet need in developing and utilizing pre-clinical models that will recapitulate the disease condition in humans. In line with progress being made in developing appropriate disease models, this review highlights the cutting-edge preclinical in vitro and animal models that try to recapitulate the human disease pathophysiology and/or clinical manifestations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abdul M. Oseini
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, VCU School of Medicine, MCV Box 980341, Richmond, VA 23298-0341, USA
| | - Banumathi K. Cole
- HemoShear Therapeutics, 501 Locust Ave, Suite 301, Charlottesville, VA 22902, USA
| | - Danny Issa
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, VCU School of Medicine, MCV Box 980341, Richmond, VA 23298-0341, USA
| | - Ryan E. Feaver
- HemoShear Therapeutics, 501 Locust Ave, Suite 301, Charlottesville, VA 22902, USA
| | - Arun J. Sanyal
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, VCU School of Medicine, MCV Box 980341, Richmond, VA 23298-0341, USA
- Physiology and Molecular Pathology, MCV Box 980341, Richmond, VA 23298-0341, USA
| |
Collapse
|
58
|
Cole BK, Feaver RE, Wamhoff BR, Dash A. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) models in drug discovery. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2017; 13:193-205. [PMID: 29190166 DOI: 10.1080/17460441.2018.1410135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The progressive disease spectrum of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which includes non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), is a rapidly emerging public health crisis with no approved therapy. The diversity of various therapies under development highlights the lack of consensus around the most effective target, underscoring the need for better translatable preclinical models to study the complex progressive disease and effective therapies. Areas covered: This article reviews published literature of various mouse models of NASH used in preclinical studies, as well as complex organotypic in vitro and ex vivo liver models being developed. It discusses translational challenges associated with both kinds of models, and describes some of the studies that validate their application in NAFLD. Expert opinion: Animal models offer advantages of understanding drug distribution and effects in a whole body context, but are limited by important species differences. Human organotypic in vitro and ex vivo models with physiological relevance and translatability need to be used in a tiered manner with simpler screens. Leveraging newer technologies, like metabolomics, proteomics, and transcriptomics, and the future development of validated disease biomarkers will allow us to fully utilize the value of these models to understand disease and evaluate novel drugs in isolation or combination.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Ajit Dash
- b Early Development Safety , Genentech Inc , South San Francisco , CA , USA
| |
Collapse
|
59
|
Xiong X, Ren Y, Cui Y, Li R, Wang C, Zhang Y. Obeticholic acid protects mice against lipopolysaccharide-induced liver injury and inflammation. Biomed Pharmacother 2017; 96:1292-1298. [PMID: 29174575 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2017.11.083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2017] [Revised: 11/09/2017] [Accepted: 11/16/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cholestasis, as a main manifestation, induces liver injury during sepsis. The farnesoid X receptor (FXR) plays an important role in regulating bile acid homeostasis. Whether FXR activation by its agonist obeticholic acid (OCA) is contributed to improve sepsis-induced liver injury remains unknown. OBJECTIVE The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of OCA on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced acute liver injury in mice. RESULTS 8-week old male C57BL/6J mice were randomly divided into control group, LPS group, oral OCA group and LPS plus oral OCA (LPS + OCA) group. The serum and livers were collected for further analysis. Serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), total bile acid (TBA) and total bilirubin (TBIL) were measured at indicated time after LPS administration. Liver sections were stained with hematoxylin & eosin (H&E). Orally OCA pretreatment stimulated the expression of FXR and BSEP in livers and protected mice from LPS-induced hepatocyte apoptosis and inflammatory infiltration. Consistently, LPS-induced higher serum levels of ALT, AST, TBA and TBIL were significantly reversed by OCA administration. Meanwhile, the mRNA levels of interleukin 1β (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) and IL-6 were decreased in livers of mice in LPS + OCA group compared with LPS group. Further investigation indicated that the higher expression of ATF4 and LC3II/I were associated with the protective effect of OCA on LPS-induced liver injury. CONCLUSION Orally OCA pretreatment protects mice from LPS-induced liver injury possibly contributed by improved bile acid homeostasis, decreased inflammatory factors and ATF4-mediated autophagy activity in hepatocytes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xi Xiong
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Shanghai Children's Hospital, Institute of Pediatric Critical Care, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, No.355 Luding Road, Putuo District, Shanghai, 200062, China
| | - Yuqian Ren
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Shanghai Children's Hospital, Institute of Pediatric Critical Care, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, No.355 Luding Road, Putuo District, Shanghai, 200062, China
| | - Yun Cui
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Shanghai Children's Hospital, Institute of Pediatric Critical Care, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, No.355 Luding Road, Putuo District, Shanghai, 200062, China
| | - Rui Li
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Shanghai Children's Hospital, Institute of Pediatric Critical Care, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, No.355 Luding Road, Putuo District, Shanghai, 200062, China
| | - Chunxia Wang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Shanghai Children's Hospital, Institute of Pediatric Critical Care, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, No.355 Luding Road, Putuo District, Shanghai, 200062, China.
| | - Yucai Zhang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Shanghai Children's Hospital, Institute of Pediatric Critical Care, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, No.355 Luding Road, Putuo District, Shanghai, 200062, China.
| |
Collapse
|
60
|
Tanaka N, Aoyama T, Kimura S, Gonzalez FJ. Targeting nuclear receptors for the treatment of fatty liver disease. Pharmacol Ther 2017; 179:142-157. [PMID: 28546081 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2017.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 149] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Ligand-activated nuclear receptors, including peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα), pregnane X receptor, and constitutive androstane receptor, were first identified as key regulators of the responses against chemical toxicants. However, numerous studies using mouse disease models and human samples have revealed critical roles for these receptors and others, such as PPARβ/δ, PPARγ, farnesoid X receptor (FXR), and liver X receptor (LXR), in maintaining nutrient/energy homeostasis in part through modulation of the gut-liver-adipose axis. Recently, disorders associated with disrupted nutrient/energy homeostasis, e.g., obesity, metabolic syndrome, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), are increasing worldwide. Notably, in NAFLD, a progressive subtype exists, designated as non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) that is characterized by typical histological features resembling alcoholic steatohepatitis (ASH), and NASH/ASH are recognized as major causes of hepatitis virus-unrelated liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Since hepatic steatosis is basically caused by an imbalance between fat/energy influx and utilization, abnormal signaling of these nuclear receptors contribute to the pathogenesis of fatty liver disease. Standard therapeutic interventions have not been fully established for fatty liver disease, but some new agents that activate or inhibit nuclear receptor signaling have shown promise as possible therapeutic targets. In this review, we summarize recent findings on the roles of nuclear receptors in fatty liver disease and discuss future perspectives to develop promising pharmacological strategies targeting nuclear receptors for NAFLD/NASH.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Naoki Tanaka
- Department of Metabolic Regulation, Shinshu University Graduate School of Medicine, Matsumoto, Nagano, Japan.
| | - Toshifumi Aoyama
- Department of Metabolic Regulation, Shinshu University Graduate School of Medicine, Matsumoto, Nagano, Japan
| | - Shioko Kimura
- Laboratory of Metabolism, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Frank J Gonzalez
- Laboratory of Metabolism, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| |
Collapse
|
61
|
Massafra V, Milona A, Vos HR, Ramos RJJ, Gerrits J, Willemsen ECL, Ramos Pittol JM, Ijssennagger N, Houweling M, Prinsen HCMT, Verhoeven-Duif NM, Burgering BMT, van Mil SWC. Farnesoid X Receptor Activation Promotes Hepatic Amino Acid Catabolism and Ammonium Clearance in Mice. Gastroenterology 2017; 152:1462-1476.e10. [PMID: 28130067 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2017.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2016] [Revised: 01/09/2017] [Accepted: 01/17/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS The nuclear receptor subfamily 1 group H member 4 (NR1H4 or farnesoid X receptor [FXR]) regulates bile acid synthesis, transport, and catabolism. FXR also regulates postprandial lipid and glucose metabolism. We performed quantitative proteomic analyses of liver tissues from mice to evaluate these functions and investigate whether FXR regulates amino acid metabolism. METHODS To study the role of FXR in mouse liver, we used mice with a disruption of Nr1h4 (FXR-knockout mice) and compared them with floxed control mice. Mice were gavaged with the FXR agonist obeticholic acid or vehicle for 11 days. Proteome analyses, as well as targeted metabolomics and chromatin immunoprecipitation, were performed on the livers of these mice. Primary rat hepatocytes were used to validate the role of FXR in amino acid catabolism by gene expression and metabolomics studies. Finally, control mice and mice with liver-specific disruption of Nr1h4 (liver FXR-knockout mice) were re-fed with a high-protein diet after 6 hours fasting and gavaged a 15NH4Cl tracer. Gene expression and the metabolome were studied in the livers and plasma from these mice. RESULTS In livers of control mice and primary rat hepatocytes, activation of FXR with obeticholic acid increased expression of proteins that regulate amino acid degradation, ureagenesis, and glutamine synthesis. We found FXR to bind to regulatory sites of genes encoding these proteins in control livers. Liver tissues from FXR-knockout mice had reduced expression of urea cycle proteins, and accumulated precursors of ureagenesis, compared with control mice. In liver FXR-knockout mice on a high-protein diet, the plasma concentration of newly formed urea was significantly decreased compared with controls. In addition, liver FXR-knockout mice had reduced hepatic expression of enzymes that regulate ammonium detoxification compared with controls. In contrast, obeticholic acid increased expression of genes encoding enzymes involved in ureagenesis compared with vehicle in C57Bl/6 mice. CONCLUSIONS In livers of mice, FXR regulates amino acid catabolism and detoxification of ammonium via ureagenesis and glutamine synthesis. Failure of the urea cycle and hyperammonemia are common in patients with acute and chronic liver diseases; compounds that activate FXR might promote ammonium clearance in these patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vittoria Massafra
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Universitair Medisch Centrum Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Alexandra Milona
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Universitair Medisch Centrum Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Harmjan R Vos
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Universitair Medisch Centrum Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Rúben J J Ramos
- Department of Genetics, Universitair Medisch Centrum Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Johan Gerrits
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Universitair Medisch Centrum Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands; Department of Genetics, Universitair Medisch Centrum Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Ellen C L Willemsen
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Universitair Medisch Centrum Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - José M Ramos Pittol
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Universitair Medisch Centrum Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Noortje Ijssennagger
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Universitair Medisch Centrum Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Martin Houweling
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Nanda M Verhoeven-Duif
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Universitair Medisch Centrum Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands; Department of Genetics, Universitair Medisch Centrum Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Boudewijn M T Burgering
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Universitair Medisch Centrum Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Saskia W C van Mil
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Universitair Medisch Centrum Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
62
|
Precision toxicology based on single cell sequencing: an evolving trend in toxicological evaluations and mechanism exploration. Arch Toxicol 2017; 91:2539-2549. [DOI: 10.1007/s00204-017-1971-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2017] [Accepted: 04/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
|
63
|
Bijsmans ITGW, Milona A, Ijssennagger N, Willemsen ECL, Ramos Pittol JM, Jonker JW, Lange K, Hooiveld GJEJ, van Mil SWC. Characterization of stem cell-derived liver and intestinal organoids as a model system to study nuclear receptor biology. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2016; 1863:687-700. [PMID: 27956139 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2016.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2016] [Revised: 10/31/2016] [Accepted: 12/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Nuclear receptors (NRs) are ligand-activated transcription factors regulating a large variety of processes involved in reproduction, development, and metabolism. NRs are ideal drug targets because they are activated by lipophilic ligands that easily pass cell membranes. Immortalized cell lines recapitulate NR biology poorly and generating primary cultures is laborious and requires a constant need for donor material. There is a clear need for development of novel preclinical model systems that better resemble human physiology. Uncertainty due to technical limitations early in drug development is often the cause of preclinical drugs not reaching the clinic. Here, we studied whether organoids, mini-organs derived from the respective mouse tissue's stem cells, can serve as a novel model system to study NR biology and targetability. We characterized mRNA expression profiles of the NR superfamily in mouse liver, ileum, and colon organoids. Tissue-specific expression patterns were largely maintained in the organoids, indicating their suitability for NR research. Metabolic NRs Fxrα, Lxrα, Lxrβ, Pparα, and Pparγ induced expression of and binding to endogenous target genes. Transcriptome analyses of wildtype colon organoids stimulated with Rosiglitazone showed that lipid metabolism was the highest significant changed function, greatly mimicking the PPARs and Rosiglitazone function in vivo. Finally, using organoids we identify Trpm6, Slc26a3, Ang1, and Rnase4, as novel Fxr target genes. Our results demonstrate that organoids represent a framework to study NR biology that can be further expanded to human organoids to improve preclinical testing of novel drugs that target this pharmacologically important class of ligand activated transcription factors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ingrid T G W Bijsmans
- Center for Molecular Medicine, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Alexandra Milona
- Center for Molecular Medicine, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Noortje Ijssennagger
- Center for Molecular Medicine, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Ellen C L Willemsen
- Center for Molecular Medicine, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - José M Ramos Pittol
- Center for Molecular Medicine, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Johan W Jonker
- Center for Liver, Digestive and Metabolic Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Katja Lange
- Nutrition, Metabolism & Genomics Group, Division of Human Nutrition, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Guido J E J Hooiveld
- Nutrition, Metabolism & Genomics Group, Division of Human Nutrition, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Saskia W C van Mil
- Center for Molecular Medicine, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
64
|
Pharmacotoxicology of clinically-relevant concentrations of obeticholic acid in an organotypic human hepatocyte system. Toxicol In Vitro 2016; 39:93-103. [PMID: 27939613 DOI: 10.1016/j.tiv.2016.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2016] [Revised: 11/23/2016] [Accepted: 11/29/2016] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is an emerging health crisis with no approved therapies. Obeticholic acid (OCA), a farnesoid X receptor (FXR) agonist, shows promise in NASH trials. However, the precise mechanisms mediating OCA effects and impact on cholesterol metabolism are not fully understood. We explored the pharmaco-toxicological effects of OCA on patho-physiological pathways in hepatocytes using a previously described perfused organotypic liver system that allows culture in near-physiological insulin/glucose milieus, and exhibits drug responses at clinically-relevant concentrations. Primary hepatocytes experienced 48-hour exposure to OCA at concentrations approximating therapeutic (0.5μM) and supratherapeutic (10μM) levels. Global transcriptomics by RNAseq was complimented by cellular viability (MTT), CYP activity assays, and secreted FGF19 levels in the media. Dose-dependent, transcriptional effects suggested suppression of bile acid synthesis (↓CYP7A1, ↓CYP27A1) and increased bile efflux (↑ABCB4, ↑ABCB11, ↑OSTA, ↑OSTB). Pleiotropic effects included suppression of TGFβ and IL-6 signaling pathways, and signatures suggestive of HDL suppression (↑SCARB1, ↓ApoAI, ↓LCAT) and LDL elevation (↑ApoB, ↓CYP7A1). OCA exhibited direct FXR-mediated effects with increased FGF19 secretion. Transcriptomics revealed regulation of metabolic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-fibrotic pathways beneficial in NASH, and predicted cholesterol profiles consistent with clinical findings. Follow-up studies under lipotoxic/inflammatory conditions would corroborate these effects in a disease-relevant environment.
Collapse
|
65
|
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Drug induced steatohepatitis (DISH), a form of drug induced liver injury (DILI) is characterized by intracellular accumulation of lipids in hepatocytes and subsequent inflammatory events, in some ways similar to the pathology seen with other metabolic, viral and genetic causes of non alcoholic fatty liver disease and steatohepatitis (NAFLD and NASH). Areas covered: This paper provides a comprehensive review of the main underlying mechanisms by which various drugs cause DISH, and outlines existing preclinical tools to predict it and study underlying pathways involved. The translational hurdles of these models are discussed, with the example of an organotypic liver system designed to address them. Finally, we describe the clinical assessment and management of DISH. Expert Opinion: The complexity of the interconnected mechanistic pathways underlying DISH makes it important that preclinical evaluation of drugs is done in a physiologically and metabolically relevant context. Advanced organotypic tissue models, coupled with translational functional biomarkers and next-generational pan-omic measurements, may offer the best shot at gathering mechanistic knowledge and potential of a drug causing steatohepatitis. Ultimately this information could also help predict, detect or guide the development of specific treatments for DISH, which is an unmet need as of today.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ajit Dash
- a HemoShear Therapeutics LLC , Charlottesville , VA , USA
| | | | - Arun J Sanyal
- b Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine , Virginia Commonwealth University , Richmond , VA , USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
66
|
Han CY, Kim TH, Koo JH, Kim SG. Farnesoid X receptor as a regulator of fuel consumption and mitochondrial function. Arch Pharm Res 2016; 39:1062-74. [PMID: 27515052 DOI: 10.1007/s12272-016-0812-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2016] [Accepted: 08/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Maintenance of energy homeostasis is crucial for survival of organism. There exists a close link between energy metabolism and cell survival, which are coordinately regulated by common signaling pathways. Farnesoid X receptor (FXR) serves as a ligand-mediated transcription factor to regulate diverse genes involved in bile acid, lipid, and glucose metabolism, controlling cellular and systemic energy metabolism. Another important aspect on FXR biology is related to its beneficial effect on cell survival. FXR exerts antioxidative and cytoprotective effect, which is closely associated with the ability of FXR to regulate mitochondrial function. To maintain complex biological processes under homeostasis, FXR activity needs to be dynamically and tightly controlled by different signaling pathways and modifications. In this review, we discuss the role of FXR in the regulation of energy metabolism and cell survival, with the goal of understanding molecular basis for FXR regulation in physiological and pathological conditions. This information may be of assistance in understanding recent advancements of FXR research and strategies for the prevention and treatment of metabolic disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chang Yeob Han
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Tae Hyun Kim
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ja Hyun Koo
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sang Geon Kim
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
67
|
Barb D, Portillo-Sanchez P, Cusi K. Pharmacological management of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Metabolism 2016; 65:1183-95. [PMID: 27301803 DOI: 10.1016/j.metabol.2016.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2016] [Revised: 04/16/2016] [Accepted: 04/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) affects one-third of the population and two-thirds of patients with obesity or type 2 diabetes (T2DM). Its more aggressive form is known as nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and is characterized by hepatocyte necrosis, inflammation and often fibrosis. The presence of fibrosis indicates a more aggressive course and may lead to cirrhosis. Premature mortality in NASH is related to both hepatic (cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma) and extra-hepatic complications, largely cardiovascular disease (CVD). Many therapeutic agents have been tested, but still none approved specifically for NASH. Treatment of NAFLD includes aggressive management of diabetes and cardiovascular risk factors, although the role of controlling hyperglycemia per se in patients with T2DM and NASH remains unknown. Agents tested with some success in non-diabetic patients with NASH include pioglitazone, liraglutide, vitamin E and to a lesser degree, pentoxiphylline. In patients with T2DM and NASH only pioglitazone has shown to significantly improve liver histology, with only a handful of patients with diabetes having been studied with other modalities. This review focuses on available agents for NASH to assist clinicians in the management of these complex patients. Many novel compounds are being studied and will likely make combination therapy for NASH a reality in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Diana Barb
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL, USA; Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism at Malcom Randall Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Paola Portillo-Sanchez
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL, USA; Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism at Malcom Randall Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Kenneth Cusi
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL, USA; Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism at Malcom Randall Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Gainesville, FL, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
68
|
Yuan ZQ, Li KW. Role of farnesoid X receptor in cholestasis. J Dig Dis 2016; 17:501-509. [PMID: 27383832 DOI: 10.1111/1751-2980.12378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2016] [Revised: 06/23/2016] [Accepted: 07/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The nuclear receptor farnesoid X receptor (FXR) plays an important role in physiological bile acid synthesis, secretion and transport. Defects of FXR regulation in these processes can cause cholestasis and subsequent pathological changes. FXR regulates the synthesis and uptake of bile acid via enzymes. It also increases bile acid solubility and elimination by promoting conjugation reactions and exports pump expression in cholestasis. The changes in bile acid transporters are involved in cholestasis, which can result from the mutations of transporter genes or acquired dysfunction of transport systems, such as inflammation-induced intrahepatic cholestasis. The modulation function of FXR in extrahepatic cholestasis is not identical to that in intrahepatic cholestasis, but the discrepancy may be reduced over time. In extrahepatic cholestasis, increasing biliary pressure can induce bile duct proliferation and bile infarcts, but the absence of FXR may ameliorate them. This review provides an update on the function of FXR in the regulation of bile acid metabolism, its role in the pathophysiological process of cholestasis and the therapeutic use of FXR agonists.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhi Qing Yuan
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ke Wei Li
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China.
| |
Collapse
|