51
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Monckton CP, Brown GE, Khetani SR. Latest impact of engineered human liver platforms on drug development. APL Bioeng 2021; 5:031506. [PMID: 34286173 PMCID: PMC8286174 DOI: 10.1063/5.0051765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Drug-induced liver injury (DILI) is a leading cause of drug attrition, which is partly due to differences between preclinical animals and humans in metabolic pathways. Therefore, in vitro human liver models are utilized in biopharmaceutical practice to mitigate DILI risk and assess related mechanisms of drug transport and metabolism. However, liver cells lose phenotypic functions within 1–3 days in two-dimensional monocultures on collagen-coated polystyrene/glass, which precludes their use to model the chronic effects of drugs and disease stimuli. To mitigate such a limitation, bioengineers have adapted tools from the semiconductor industry and additive manufacturing to precisely control the microenvironment of liver cells. Such tools have led to the fabrication of advanced two-dimensional and three-dimensional human liver platforms for different throughput needs and assay endpoints (e.g., micropatterned cocultures, spheroids, organoids, bioprinted tissues, and microfluidic devices); such platforms have significantly enhanced liver functions closer to physiologic levels and improved functional lifetime to >4 weeks, which has translated to higher sensitivity for predicting drug outcomes and enabling modeling of diseased phenotypes for novel drug discovery. Here, we focus on commercialized engineered liver platforms and case studies from the biopharmaceutical industry showcasing their impact on drug development. We also discuss emerging multi-organ microfluidic devices containing a liver compartment that allow modeling of inter-tissue crosstalk following drug exposure. Finally, we end with key requirements for engineered liver platforms to become routine fixtures in the biopharmaceutical industry toward reducing animal usage and providing patients with safe and efficacious drugs with unprecedented speed and reduced cost.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chase P Monckton
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60607, USA
| | - Grace E Brown
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60607, USA
| | - Salman R Khetani
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60607, USA
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52
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Is HSD17B13 Genetic Variant a Protector for Liver Dysfunction? Future Perspective as a Potential Therapeutic Target. J Pers Med 2021; 11:jpm11070619. [PMID: 34208839 PMCID: PMC8304981 DOI: 10.3390/jpm11070619] [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: 05/11/2021] [Revised: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
As diet and lifestyle have changed, fatty liver disease (FLD) has become more and more prevalent. Many genetic risk factors, such as variants of PNPLA3, TM6SF2, GCKR, and MBOAT7, have previously been uncovered via genome wide association studies (GWAS) to be associated with FLD. In 2018, a genetic variant (rs72613567, T > TA) of hydroxysteroid 17-β dehydrogenase family 13 (HSD17B13) was first associated with a lower risk of developing alcoholic liver disease and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in minor allele carriers. Other HSD17B13 variants were also later linked with either lower inflammation scores among NAFLD patients or protection against NAFLD (rs6834314, A > G and rs9992651, G > A) respectively. HSD17B13 is a lipid droplet-associated protein, but its function is still ambiguous. Compared to the other genetic variants that increase risk for FLD, HSD17B13 variants serve a protective role, making this gene a potential therapeutic target. However, the mechanism by which these variants reduce the risk of developing FLD is still unclear. Because studies in cell lines and mouse models have produced conflicting results, human liver tissue modeling using induced pluripotent stem cells may be the best way to move forward and solve this mystery.
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53
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Ingelman-Sundberg M, Lauschke VM. 3D human liver spheroids for translational pharmacology and toxicology. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol 2021; 130 Suppl 1:5-15. [PMID: 33872466 DOI: 10.1111/bcpt.13587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Drug development is a failure-prone endeavour, and more than 85% of drugs fail during clinical development, showcasing that current preclinical systems for compound selection are clearly inadequate. Liver toxicity remains a major reason for safety failures. Furthermore, all efforts to develop pharmacological therapies for a variety of chronic liver diseases, such as non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and fibrosis, remain unsuccessful. Considering the time and expense of clinical trials, as well as the substantial burden on patients, new strategies are thus of paramount importance to increase clinical success rates. To this end, human liver spheroids are becoming increasingly utilized as they allow to preserve patient-specific phenotypes and functions for multiple weeks in culture. We here review the recent application of such systems for i) predictive and mechanistic analyses of drug hepatotoxicity, ii) the evaluation of hepatic disposition and metabolite formation of low clearance drugs and iii) the development of drugs for metabolic and infectious liver diseases, including NASH, fibrosis, malaria and viral hepatitis. We envision that with increasing dissemination, liver spheroids might become the new gold standard for such applications in translational pharmacology and toxicology.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Volker M Lauschke
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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54
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Jamialahmadi O, Mancina RM, Ciociola E, Tavaglione F, Luukkonen PK, Baselli G, Malvestiti F, Thuillier D, Raverdy V, Männistö V, Pipitone RM, Pennisi G, Prati D, Spagnuolo R, Petta S, Pihlajamäki J, Pattou F, Yki-Järvinen H, Valenti L, Romeo S. Exome-Wide Association Study on Alanine Aminotransferase Identifies Sequence Variants in the GPAM and APOE Associated With Fatty Liver Disease. Gastroenterology 2021; 160:1634-1646.e7. [PMID: 33347879 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2020.12.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2020] [Revised: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Fatty liver disease (FLD) is a growing epidemic that is expected to be the leading cause of end-stage liver disease within the next decade. Both environmental and genetic factors contribute to the susceptibility of FLD. Several genetic variants contributing to FLD have been identified in exome-wide association studies. However, there is still a missing hereditability indicating that other genetic variants are yet to be discovered. METHODS To find genes involved in FLD, we first examined the association of missense and nonsense variants with alanine aminotransferase at an exome-wide level in 425,671 participants from the UK Biobank. We then validated genetic variants with liver fat content in 8930 participants in whom liver fat measurement was available, and replicated 2 genetic variants in 3 independent cohorts comprising 2621 individuals with available liver biopsy. RESULTS We identified 190 genetic variants independently associated with alanine aminotransferase after correcting for multiple testing with Bonferroni method. The majority of these variants were not previously associated with this trait. Among those associated, there was a striking enrichment of genetic variants influencing lipid metabolism. We identified the variants rs2792751 in GPAM/GPAT1, the gene encoding glycerol-3-phosphate acyltransferase, mitochondrial, and rs429358 in APOE, the gene encoding apolipoprotein E, as robustly associated with liver fat content and liver disease after adjusting for multiple testing. Both genes affect lipid metabolism in the liver. CONCLUSIONS We identified 2 novel genetic variants in GPAM and APOE that are robustly associated with steatosis and liver damage. These findings may help to better elucidate the genetic susceptibility to FLD onset and progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oveis Jamialahmadi
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, Wallenberg Laboratory, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Rosellina Margherita Mancina
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, Wallenberg Laboratory, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Ester Ciociola
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, Wallenberg Laboratory, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Federica Tavaglione
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, Wallenberg Laboratory, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden; Clinical Medicine and Hepatology Unit, Department of Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Campus Bio-Medico University, Rome, Italy
| | - Panu K Luukkonen
- Department of Medicine, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland; Minerva Foundation Institute for Medical Research, Helsinki, Finland; Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Guido Baselli
- Translational Medicine, Department of Transfusion Medicine and Hematology, Fondazione Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy
| | - Francesco Malvestiti
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Dorothée Thuillier
- Univ Lille, Inserm, Lille Pasteur Institute, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Lille, European Genomic Institute for Diabetes, U1190 Translational Research in Diabetes, Lille University, Lille, France
| | - Violeta Raverdy
- Univ Lille, Inserm, Lille Pasteur Institute, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Lille, European Genomic Institute for Diabetes, U1190 Translational Research in Diabetes, Lille University, Lille, France; Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Lille, Department of General and Endocrine Surgery, Integrated Center for Obesity, Lille, France
| | - Ville Männistö
- Department of Medicine, University of Eastern Finland and Kuopio University Hospital, Finland; Institute of Public Health and Clinical Nutrition, University of Eastern Finland, Finland; Department of Medicine, Endocrinology and Clinical Nutrition, Kuopio University Hospital, Finland
| | - Rosaria Maria Pipitone
- Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Promozione della Salute, Materno-Infantile, di Medicina Interna e Specialistica di Eccellenza "G. D'Alessandro," University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Grazia Pennisi
- Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Promozione della Salute, Materno-Infantile, di Medicina Interna e Specialistica di Eccellenza "G. D'Alessandro," University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Daniele Prati
- Translational Medicine, Department of Transfusion Medicine and Hematology, Fondazione Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy
| | - Rocco Spagnuolo
- Clinical Nutrition Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University Magna Graecia, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Salvatore Petta
- Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Promozione della Salute, Materno-Infantile, di Medicina Interna e Specialistica di Eccellenza "G. D'Alessandro," University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Jussi Pihlajamäki
- Institute of Public Health and Clinical Nutrition, University of Eastern Finland, Finland; Department of Medicine, Endocrinology and Clinical Nutrition, Kuopio University Hospital, Finland
| | - François Pattou
- Univ Lille, Inserm, Lille Pasteur Institute, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Lille, European Genomic Institute for Diabetes, U1190 Translational Research in Diabetes, Lille University, Lille, France; Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Lille, Department of General and Endocrine Surgery, Integrated Center for Obesity, Lille, France
| | - Hannele Yki-Järvinen
- Department of Medicine, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland; Minerva Foundation Institute for Medical Research, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Luca Valenti
- Translational Medicine, Department of Transfusion Medicine and Hematology, Fondazione Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy; Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy.
| | - Stefano Romeo
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, Wallenberg Laboratory, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden; Clinical Nutrition Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University Magna Graecia, Catanzaro, Italy; Cardiology Department, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden.
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Bianco C, Casirati E, Malvestiti F, Valenti L. Genetic predisposition similarities between NASH and ASH: Identification of new therapeutic targets. JHEP Rep 2021; 3:100284. [PMID: 34027340 PMCID: PMC8122117 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2021.100284] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Revised: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Fatty liver disease can be triggered by a combination of excess alcohol, dysmetabolism and other environmental cues, which can lead to steatohepatitis and can evolve to acute/chronic liver failure and hepatocellular carcinoma, especially in the presence of shared inherited determinants. The recent identification of the genetic causes of steatohepatitis is revealing new avenues for more effective risk stratification. Discovery of the mechanisms underpinning the detrimental effect of causal mutations has led to some breakthroughs in the comprehension of the pathophysiology of steatohepatitis. Thanks to this approach, hepatocellular fat accumulation, altered lipid droplet remodelling and lipotoxicity have now taken centre stage, while the role of adiposity and gut-liver axis alterations have been independently validated. This process could ignite a virtuous research cycle that, starting from human genomics, through omics approaches, molecular genetics and disease models, may lead to the development of new therapeutics targeted to patients at higher risk. Herein, we also review how this knowledge has been applied to: a) the study of the main PNPLA3 I148M risk variant, up to the stage of the first in-human therapeutic trials; b) highlight a role of MBOAT7 downregulation and lysophosphatidyl-inositol in steatohepatitis; c) identify IL-32 as a candidate mediator linking lipotoxicity to inflammation and liver disease. Although this precision medicine drug discovery pipeline is mainly being applied to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, there is hope that successful products could be repurposed to treat alcohol-related liver disease as well.
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Key Words
- AA, arachidonic acid
- ASH, alcoholic steatohepatitis
- DAG, diacylglycerol
- DNL, de novo lipogenesis
- ER, endoplasmic reticulum
- FFAs, free fatty acids
- FGF19, fibroblast growth factor 19
- FLD, fatty liver disease
- FXR, farnesoid X receptor
- GCKR, glucokinase regulator
- GPR55, G protein-coupled receptor 55
- HCC, hepatocellular carcinoma
- HFE, homeostatic iron regulator
- HSC, hepatic stellate cells
- HSD17B13, hydroxysteroid 17-beta dehydrogenase 13
- IL-, interleukin-
- IL32
- LDs, lipid droplets
- LPI, lysophosphatidyl-inositol
- MARC1, mitochondrial amidoxime reducing component 1
- MBOAT7
- MBOAT7, membrane bound O-acyltransferase domain-containing 7
- NASH, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis
- PNPLA3
- PNPLA3, patatin like phospholipase domain containing 3
- PPAR, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor
- PRS, polygenic risk score
- PUFAs, polyunsaturated fatty acids
- SREBP, sterol response element binding protein
- TAG, triacylglycerol
- TNF-α, tumour necrosis factor-α
- alcoholic liver disease
- cirrhosis
- fatty liver disease
- genetics
- interleukin-32
- non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
- precision medicine
- steatohepatitis
- therapy
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristiana Bianco
- Precision Medicine - Department of Transfusion Medicine and Hematology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Elia Casirati
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesco Malvestiti
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Luca Valenti
- Precision Medicine - Department of Transfusion Medicine and Hematology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy.,Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
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56
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Choudhary NS, Duseja A. Genetic and epigenetic disease modifiers: non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and alcoholic liver disease (ALD). Transl Gastroenterol Hepatol 2021; 6:2. [PMID: 33409397 DOI: 10.21037/tgh.2019.09.06] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2019] [Accepted: 09/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Inter-individual and inter-ethnic differences and difference in the severity and progression of liver disease among patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and alcoholic liver disease (ALD) suggests the involvement of genetic and epigenetic factors in their pathogenesis. This article reviews the genetic and epigenetic modifiers in patients with NAFLD and ALD. Evidence regarding the genetic and epigenetic disease modifiers of NAFLD and ALD was reviewed by searching the available literature. Both genome wide association studies (GWAS) and candidate gene studies pertaining to the pathogenesis in both diseases were included. Clinical implications of the available information are also discussed. Several studies have shown association of both NAFLD and ALD with I148M PNPLA3 variant. In addition to the higher prevalence of hepatic steatosis, the I148M PNPLA3 variant is also associated with severity of liver disease and risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). TM6SF2 is the other genetic variant shown to be significantly associated with hepatic steatosis and cirrhosis in patients with NAFLD and ALD. The Membrane bound O-acyltransferase domain-containing 7 (MBOAT7) genetic variant is also associated with both NAFLD and ALD. In addition to these mutations, several variants related to the genes involved in glucose metabolism, insulin resistance, lipid metabolism, oxidative stress, inflammatory pathways, fibrosis have also been shown to be the disease modifiers in patients with NAFLD and ALD. Epigenetics involving several micro RNAs and DNA methylation could also modify the disease course in NAFLD and ALD. In conclusion the available literature suggests that genetics and epigenetics are involved in the pathogenesis of NAFLD and ALD which may affect the disease prevalence, severity and response to treatment in these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Narendra Singh Choudhary
- Institute of Liver Transplantation and Regenerative Medicine, Medanta, The Medicity, Gurgaon, Delhi (NCR), India
| | - Ajay Duseja
- Department of Hepatology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
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57
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Luukkonen PK, Qadri S, Lehtimäki TE, Juuti A, Sammalkorpi H, Penttilä AK, Hakkarainen A, Orho-Melander M, Arola J, Yki-Järvinen H. The PNPLA3-I148M Variant Confers an Antiatherogenic Lipid Profile in Insulin-resistant Patients. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2021; 106:e300-e315. [PMID: 33064150 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgaa729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Accepted: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT The I148M (rs738409-G) variant in PNPLA3 increases liver fat content but may be protective against cardiovascular disease. Insulin resistance (IR) amplifies the effect of PNPLA3-I148M on liver fat. OBJECTIVE To study whether PNPLA3-I148M confers an antihyperlipidemic effect in insulin-resistant patients. DESIGN Cross-sectional study comparing the impact of PNPLA3-I148M on plasma lipids and lipoproteins in 2 cohorts, both divided into groups based on rs738409-G allele carrier status and median HOMA-IR. SETTING Tertiary referral center. PATIENTS A total of 298 obese patients who underwent a liver biopsy during bariatric surgery (bariatric cohort: age 49 ± 9 years, body mass index [BMI] 43.2 ± 6.8 kg/m2), and 345 less obese volunteers in whom liver fat was measured by proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (nonbariatric cohort: age 45 ± 14 years, BMI 29.7 ± 5.7 kg/m2). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Nuclear magnetic resonance profiling of plasma lipids, lipoprotein particle subclasses and their composition. RESULTS In both cohorts, individuals carrying the PNPLA3-I148M variant had significantly higher liver fat content than noncarriers. In insulin-resistant and homozygous carriers, PNPLA3-I148M exerted a distinct antihyperlipidemic effect with decreased very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) particles and their constituents, and increased high-density lipoprotein particles and their constituents, compared with noncarriers. VLDL particles were smaller and LDL particles larger in PNPLA3-I148M carriers. These changes were geometrically opposite to those due to IR. PNPLA3-I148M did not have a measurable effect in patients with lower IR, and its effect was smaller albeit still significant in the less obese than in the obese cohort. CONCLUSIONS PNPLA3-I148M confers an antiatherogenic plasma lipid profile particularly in insulin-resistant individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panu K Luukkonen
- Department of Medicine, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
- Minerva Foundation Institute for Medical Research, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Sami Qadri
- Department of Medicine, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
- Minerva Foundation Institute for Medical Research, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Tiina E Lehtimäki
- HUS Medical Imaging Center, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Anne Juuti
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Abdominal Center, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Henna Sammalkorpi
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Abdominal Center, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Anne K Penttilä
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Abdominal Center, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Antti Hakkarainen
- HUS Medical Imaging Center, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | | | - Johanna Arola
- Department of Pathology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Hannele Yki-Järvinen
- Department of Medicine, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
- Minerva Foundation Institute for Medical Research, Helsinki, Finland
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58
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Tanaka Y, Shimanaka Y, Caddeo A, Kubo T, Mao Y, Kubota T, Kubota N, Yamauchi T, Mancina RM, Baselli G, Luukkonen P, Pihlajamäki J, Yki-Järvinen H, Valenti L, Arai H, Romeo S, Kono N. LPIAT1/MBOAT7 depletion increases triglyceride synthesis fueled by high phosphatidylinositol turnover. Gut 2021; 70:180-193. [PMID: 32253259 PMCID: PMC7788230 DOI: 10.1136/gutjnl-2020-320646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2020] [Revised: 02/24/2020] [Accepted: 03/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a common prelude to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. The genetic rs641738 C>T variant in the lysophosphatidylinositol acyltransferase 1 (LPIAT1)/membrane bound O-acyltransferase domain-containing 7, which incorporates arachidonic acid into phosphatidylinositol (PI), is associated with the entire spectrum of NAFLD. In this study, we investigated the mechanism underlying this association in mice and cultured human hepatocytes. DESIGN We generated the hepatocyte-specific Lpiat1 knockout mice to investigate the function of Lpiat1 in vivo. We also depleted LPIAT1 in cultured human hepatic cells using CRISPR-Cas9 systems or siRNA. The effect of LPIAT1-depletion on liver fibrosis was examined in mice fed high fat diet and in liver spheroids. Lipid species were measured using liquid chromatography-electrospray ionisation mass spectrometry. Lipid metabolism was analysed using radiolabeled glycerol or fatty acids. RESULTS The hepatocyte-specific Lpiat1 knockout mice developed hepatic steatosis spontaneously, and hepatic fibrosis on high fat diet feeding. Depletion of LPIAT1 in cultured hepatic cells and in spheroids caused triglyceride accumulation and collagen deposition. The increase in hepatocyte fat content was due to a higher triglyceride synthesis fueled by a non-canonical pathway. Indeed, reduction in the PI acyl chain remodelling caused a high PI turnover, by stimulating at the same time PI synthesis and breakdown. The degradation of PI was mediated by a phospholipase C, which produces diacylglycerol, a precursor of triglyceride. CONCLUSION We found a novel pathway fueling triglyceride synthesis in hepatocytes, by a direct metabolic flow of PI into triglycerides. Our findings provide an insight into the pathogenesis and therapeutics of NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuki Tanaka
- Department of Health Chemistry, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuta Shimanaka
- Department of Health Chemistry, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Andrea Caddeo
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Takuya Kubo
- Department of Health Chemistry, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yanli Mao
- Department of Health Chemistry, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tetsuya Kubota
- Division of Diabetes and Metabolism, The Institute for Adult Diseases, Asahi Life Foundation, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Naoto Kubota
- Department of Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan,Department of Clinical Nutrition Therapy, The University of Tokyo Hospital, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Toshimasa Yamauchi
- Department of Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Rosellina Margherita Mancina
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Guido Baselli
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy,Translational Medicine, Department of Transfusion Medicine and Hematology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy
| | - Panu Luukkonen
- Department of Medicine, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Central Hospital, Helsinki, Finland,Minerva Foundation Institute for Medical Research, Helsinki, Finland,Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Jussi Pihlajamäki
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, Institute of Public Health and Clinical Nutrition, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland,Clinical Nutrition and Obesity Center, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Hannele Yki-Järvinen
- Department of Medicine, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Central Hospital, Helsinki, Finland,Minerva Foundation Institute for Medical Research, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Luca Valenti
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy,Translational Medicine, Department of Transfusion Medicine and Hematology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy
| | - Hiroyuki Arai
- Department of Health Chemistry, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan,AMED-CREST, Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development, Tokyo, Japan,Present address: Laboratory of Microenvironmental and Metabolic Health Science, Center for Disease Biology and Integrative Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Stefano Romeo
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden .,Clinical Nutrition Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Science, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro, Italy.,Department of Cardiology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Nozomu Kono
- Department of Health Chemistry, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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59
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Borén J, Adiels M, Björnson E, Matikainen N, Söderlund S, Rämö J, Ståhlman M, Ripatti P, Ripatti S, Palotie A, Mancina RM, Hakkarainen A, Romeo S, Packard CJ, Taskinen MR. Effects of TM6SF2 E167K on hepatic lipid and very low-density lipoprotein metabolism in humans. JCI Insight 2020; 5:144079. [PMID: 33170809 PMCID: PMC7819740 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.144079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 11/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is characterized by hepatic lipid accumulation. The transmembrane 6 superfamily member 2 (TM6SF2) E167K genetic variant associates with NAFLD and with reduced plasma triglyceride levels in humans. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying these associations remain unclear. We hypothesized that TM6SF2 E167K affects hepatic very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) secretion and studied the kinetics of apolipoprotein B100 (apoB100) and triglyceride metabolism in VLDL in homozygous subjects. In 10 homozygote TM6SF2 E167K carriers and 10 matched controls, we employed stable-isotope tracer and compartmental modeling techniques to determine apoB100 and triglyceride kinetics in the 2 major VLDL subfractions: large triglyceride-rich VLDL1 and smaller, less triglyceride-rich VLDL2. VLDL1-apoB100 production was markedly reduced in homozygote TM6SF2 E167K carriers compared with controls. Likewise, VLDL1-triglyceride production was 35% lower in the TM6SF2 E167K carriers. In contrast, the direct production rates for VLDL2-apoB100 and triglyceride were not different between carriers and controls. In conclusion, the TM6SF2 E167K genetic variant was linked to a specific reduction in hepatic secretion of large triglyceride-rich VLDL1. The impaired secretion of VLDL1 explains the reduced plasma triglyceride concentration and provides a basis for understanding the lower risk of cardiovascular disease associated with the TM6SF2 E167K genetic variant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Borén
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, Institute of Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Wallenberg Laboratory for Cardiovascular and Metabolic Research, Department of Cardiology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Martin Adiels
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, Institute of Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Elias Björnson
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, Institute of Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Niina Matikainen
- Research Program for Clinical and Molecular Metabolism, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Endocrinology, Abdominal Center, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Sanni Söderlund
- Research Program for Clinical and Molecular Metabolism, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Endocrinology, Abdominal Center, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Joel Rämö
- Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland, Helsinki Institute of Life Science (HiLIFE), University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Marcus Ståhlman
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, Institute of Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Pietari Ripatti
- Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland, Helsinki Institute of Life Science (HiLIFE), University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Samuli Ripatti
- Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland, Helsinki Institute of Life Science (HiLIFE), University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Broad Institute of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Public Health, Clinicum, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Aarno Palotie
- Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland, Helsinki Institute of Life Science (HiLIFE), University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Broad Institute of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Rosellina M Mancina
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, Institute of Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Antti Hakkarainen
- Helsinki and Uusimaa Hospital District Medical Imaging Center, Radiology, Helsinki University Hospital, University of Helsinki, Finland
| | - Stefano Romeo
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, Institute of Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Wallenberg Laboratory for Cardiovascular and Metabolic Research, Department of Cardiology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Chris J Packard
- Institute of Cardiovascular & Medical Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Marja-Riitta Taskinen
- Research Program for Clinical and Molecular Metabolism, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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60
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Targher G, Corey KE, Byrne CD. NAFLD, and cardiovascular and cardiac diseases: Factors influencing risk, prediction and treatment. DIABETES & METABOLISM 2020; 47:101215. [PMID: 33296704 DOI: 10.1016/j.diabet.2020.101215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 11/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), affecting up to around 30% of the world's adult population, causes considerable liver-related and extrahepatic morbidity and mortality. Strong evidence indicates that NAFLD (especially its more severe forms) is associated with a greater risk of all-cause mortality, and the predominant cause of mortality in this patient population is cardiovascular disease (CVD). This narrative review aims to discuss the strong association between NAFLD and increased risk of cardiovascular, cardiac and arrhythmic complications. Also discussed are the putative mechanisms linking NAFLD to CVD and other cardiac/arrhythmic complications, with a brief summary of CVD risk prediction/stratification and management of the increased CVD risk observed in patients with NAFLD. RESULTS NAFLD is associated with an increased risk of CVD events and other cardiac complications (left ventricular hypertrophy, valvular calcification, certain arrhythmias) independently of traditional CVD risk factors. The magnitude of risk of CVD and other cardiac/arrhythmic complications parallels the severity of NAFLD (especially liver fibrosis severity). There are most likely multiple underlying mechanisms through which NAFLD may increase risk of CVD and cardiac/arrhythmic complications. Indeed, NAFLD exacerbates hepatic and systemic insulin resistance, promotes atherogenic dyslipidaemia, induces hypertension, and triggers synthesis of proatherogenic, procoagulant and proinflammatory mediators that may contribute to the development of CVD and other cardiac/arrhythmic complications. CONCLUSION Careful assessment of CVD risk is mandatory in patients with NAFLD for primary prevention of CVD, together with pharmacological treatment for coexisting CVD risk factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Targher
- Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University and Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata of Verona, Verona, Italy.
| | - Kathleen E Corey
- Liver Center, Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Christopher D Byrne
- Nutrition and Metabolism, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, UK; National Institute for Health Research Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospital Southampton, Southampton General Hospital, Tremona Road, Southampton, UK
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61
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Liu S, Murakami E, Nakahara T, Ohya K, Teraoka Y, Makokha GN, Uchida T, Morio K, Fujino H, Ono A, Yamauchi M, Kawaoka T, Miki D, Tsuge M, Hiramatsu A, Abe-Chayama H, Hayes NC, Imamura M, Aikata H, Chayama K. In vitro analysis of hepatic stellate cell activation influenced by transmembrane 6 superfamily 2 polymorphism. Mol Med Rep 2020; 23:16. [PMID: 33179077 PMCID: PMC7673330 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2020.11654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Non‑alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) may progress via liver fibrosis along with hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation. A single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP; rs58542926) located in transmembrane 6 superfamily 2 (TM6SF2) has been reported to be significantly associated with fibrosis in patients with NASH, but the precise mechanism is still unknown. The present study aimed to explore the role of TM6SF2 in HSC activation in vitro. Plasmids producing TM6SF2 wild-type (WT) and mutant type (MT) containing E167K amino acid substitution were constructed, and the activation of LX‑2 cells was analyzed by overexpressing or knocking down TM6SF2 under transforming growth factor β1 (TGFβ) treatment. Intracellular α‑smooth muscle actin (αSMA) expression in LX‑2 cells was significantly repressed by TM6SF2‑WT overexpression and increased by TM6SF2 knockdown. Following treatment with TGFβ, αSMA expression was restored in TM6SF2‑WT overexpressed LX‑2 cells and was enhanced in TM6SF2 knocked‑down LX‑2 cells. Comparing αSMA expression under TM6SF2‑WT or ‑MT overexpression, expression of αSMA in TM6SF2‑MT overexpressed cells was higher than that in TM6SF2‑WT cells and was further enhanced by TGFβ treatment. The present study demonstrated that intracellular αSMA expression in HCS was negatively regulated by TM6SF2 while the E167K substitution released this negative regulation and led to enhanced HSC activation by TGFβ. These results suggest that the SNP in TM6SF2 may relate to sensitivity of HSC activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Songyao Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Life Sciences, Institute of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 734‑8551, Japan
| | - Eisuke Murakami
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Life Sciences, Institute of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 734‑8551, Japan
| | - Takashi Nakahara
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Life Sciences, Institute of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 734‑8551, Japan
| | - Kazuki Ohya
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Life Sciences, Institute of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 734‑8551, Japan
| | - Yuji Teraoka
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Life Sciences, Institute of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 734‑8551, Japan
| | - Grace Naswa Makokha
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Life Sciences, Institute of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 734‑8551, Japan
| | - Takuro Uchida
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Life Sciences, Institute of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 734‑8551, Japan
| | - Kei Morio
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Life Sciences, Institute of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 734‑8551, Japan
| | - Hatsue Fujino
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Life Sciences, Institute of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 734‑8551, Japan
| | - Atsushi Ono
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Life Sciences, Institute of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 734‑8551, Japan
| | - Masami Yamauchi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Life Sciences, Institute of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 734‑8551, Japan
| | - Tomokazu Kawaoka
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Life Sciences, Institute of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 734‑8551, Japan
| | - Daiki Miki
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Life Sciences, Institute of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 734‑8551, Japan
| | - Masataka Tsuge
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Life Sciences, Institute of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 734‑8551, Japan
| | - Akira Hiramatsu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Life Sciences, Institute of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 734‑8551, Japan
| | - Hiromi Abe-Chayama
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Life Sciences, Institute of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 734‑8551, Japan
| | - Nelson C Hayes
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Life Sciences, Institute of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 734‑8551, Japan
| | - Michio Imamura
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Life Sciences, Institute of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 734‑8551, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Aikata
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Life Sciences, Institute of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 734‑8551, Japan
| | - Kazuaki Chayama
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Life Sciences, Institute of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 734‑8551, Japan
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Jonas W, Schürmann A. Genetic and epigenetic factors determining NAFLD risk. Mol Metab 2020; 50:101111. [PMID: 33160101 PMCID: PMC8324682 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmet.2020.101111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2020] [Revised: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatic steatosis is a common chronic liver disease that can progress into more severe stages of NAFLD or promote the development of life-threatening secondary diseases for some of those affected. These include the liver itself (nonalcoholic steatohepatitis or NASH; fibrosis and cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma) or other organs such as the vessels and the heart (cardiovascular disease) or the islets of Langerhans (type 2 diabetes). In addition to elevated caloric intake and a sedentary lifestyle, genetic and epigenetic predisposition contribute to the development of NAFLD and the secondary diseases. SCOPE OF REVIEW We present data from genome-wide association studies (GWAS) and functional studies in rodents which describe polymorphisms identified in genes relevant for the disease as well as changes caused by altered DNA methylation and gene regulation via specific miRNAs. The review also provides information on the current status of the use of genetic and epigenetic factors as risk markers. MAJOR CONCLUSION With our overview we provide an insight into the genetic and epigenetic landscape of NAFLD and argue about the applicability of currently defined risk scores for risk stratification and conclude that further efforts are needed to make the scores more usable and meaningful.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenke Jonas
- Department of Experimental Diabetology, German Institute of Human Nutrition Potsdam-Rehbruecke, Arthur-Scheunert-Allee 114-116, D-14558, Nuthetal, Germany; German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), Ingolstädter Landstraße 1, D-85764, München-Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Annette Schürmann
- Department of Experimental Diabetology, German Institute of Human Nutrition Potsdam-Rehbruecke, Arthur-Scheunert-Allee 114-116, D-14558, Nuthetal, Germany; German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), Ingolstädter Landstraße 1, D-85764, München-Neuherberg, Germany; University of Potsdam, Institute of Nutritional Sciences, Arthur-Scheunert-Allee 114-116, D-14558, Nuthetal, Germany; Faculty of Health Sciences, Joint Faculty of the Brandenburg University of Technology, Cottbus-Senftenberg, The Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane and the University of Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany.
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63
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Huang D, Gibeley SB, Xu C, Xiao Y, Celik O, Ginsberg HN, Leong KW. Engineering liver microtissues for disease modeling and regenerative medicine. ADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS 2020; 30:1909553. [PMID: 33390875 PMCID: PMC7774671 DOI: 10.1002/adfm.201909553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2019] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
The burden of liver diseases is increasing worldwide, accounting for two million deaths annually. In the past decade, tremendous progress has been made in the basic and translational research of liver tissue engineering. Liver microtissues are small, three-dimensional hepatocyte cultures that recapitulate liver physiology and have been used in biomedical research and regenerative medicine. This review summarizes recent advances, challenges, and future directions in liver microtissue research. Cellular engineering approaches are used to sustain primary hepatocytes or produce hepatocytes derived from pluripotent stem cells and other adult tissues. Three-dimensional microtissues are generated by scaffold-free assembly or scaffold-assisted methods such as macroencapsulation, droplet microfluidics, and bioprinting. Optimization of the hepatic microenvironment entails incorporating the appropriate cell composition for enhanced cell-cell interactions and niche-specific signals, and creating scaffolds with desired chemical, mechanical and physical properties. Perfusion-based culture systems such as bioreactors and microfluidic systems are used to achieve efficient exchange of nutrients and soluble factors. Taken together, systematic optimization of liver microtissues is a multidisciplinary effort focused on creating liver cultures and on-chip models with greater structural complexity and physiological relevance for use in liver disease research, therapeutic development, and regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dantong Huang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027, USA
| | - Sarah B. Gibeley
- Institute of Human Nutrition, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Cong Xu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027, USA
| | - Yang Xiao
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027, USA
| | - Ozgenur Celik
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027, USA
| | - Henry N. Ginsberg
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Kam W. Leong
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027, USA
- Department of Systems Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
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64
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Tavaglione F, Targher G, Valenti L, Romeo S. Human and molecular genetics shed lights on fatty liver disease and diabetes conundrum. Endocrinol Diabetes Metab 2020; 3:e00179. [PMID: 33102799 PMCID: PMC7576307 DOI: 10.1002/edm2.179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Revised: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 08/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The causal role of abdominal overweight/obesity, insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes (T2D) on the risk of fatty liver disease (FLD) has robustly been proven. A consensus of experts has recently proposed the novel definition of 'metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease, MAFLD' instead of 'nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, NAFLD', emphasizing the central role of dysmetabolism in the disease pathogenesis. Conversely, a direct and independent contribution of FLD per se on risk of developing T2D is still a controversial topic. When dealing with FLD as a potential risk factor for T2D, it is straightforward to think of hepatic insulin resistance as the most relevant underlying mechanism. Emerging evidence supports genetic determinants of FLD (eg PNPLA3, TM6SF2, MBOAT7, GCKR, HSD17B13) as determinants of insulin resistance and T2D. However, recent studies highlighted that the key molecular mechanism of dysmetabolism is not fat accumulation per se but the degree of hepatic fibrosis (excess liver fat content-lipotoxicity), leading to reduced insulin clearance, insulin resistance and T2D. A consequence of these findings is that drugs that will ameliorate liver fat accumulation and fibrosis in principle may also exert a beneficial effect on insulin resistance and risk of T2D in individuals with FLD. Finally, initial findings show that these genetic factors might be directly implicated in modulating pancreatic beta-cell function, although future studies are needed to fully understand this relationship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Tavaglione
- Clinical Medicine and Hepatology UnitDepartment of Internal Medicine and GeriatricsCampus Bio‐Medico UniversityRomeItaly
- Department of Molecular and Clinical MedicineSahlgrenska AcademyUniversity of GothenburgGothenburgSweden
| | - Giovanni Targher
- Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes and MetabolismDepartment of MedicineUniversity and Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata of VeronaVeronaItaly
| | - Luca Valenti
- Department of Pathophysiology and TransplantationUniversità degli Studi di MilanoMilanoItaly
- Translational MedicineDepartment of Transfusion Medicine and HematologyFondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore PoliclinicoMilanoItaly
| | - Stefano Romeo
- Department of Molecular and Clinical MedicineSahlgrenska AcademyUniversity of GothenburgGothenburgSweden
- Clinical Nutrition UnitDepartment of Medical and Surgical ScienceMagna Graecia UniversityCatanzaroItaly
- Department of CardiologySahlgrenska University HospitalGothenburgSweden
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65
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Utility of Three-Dimensional Cultures of Primary Human Hepatocytes (Spheroids) as Pharmacokinetic Models. Biomedicines 2020; 8:biomedicines8100374. [PMID: 32977664 PMCID: PMC7598599 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines8100374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Revised: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
This paper reviews the usefulness, current status, and potential of primary human hepatocytes (PHHs) in three-dimensional (3D) cultures, also known as spheroids, in the field of pharmacokinetics (PK). Predicting PK and toxicity means pharmaceutical research can be conducted more efficiently. Various in vitro test systems using human hepatocytes have been proposed as tools to detect hepatic toxicity at an early stage in the drug development process. However, such evaluation requires long-term, low-level exposure to the test compound, and conventional screening systems such as PHHs in planar (2D) culture, in which the cells can only survive for a few days, are unsuitable for this purpose. In contrast, spheroids consisting of PHH are reported to retain the functional characteristics of human liver for at least 35 days. Here, we introduce a fundamental PK and toxicity assessment model of PHH spheroids and describe their applications for assessing species-specific metabolism, enzyme induction, and toxicity, focusing on our own work in these areas. The studies outlined in this paper may provide important information for pharmaceutical companies to reduce termination of development of drug candidates.
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Li BT, Sun M, Li YF, Wang JQ, Zhou ZM, Song BL, Luo J. Disruption of the ERLIN-TM6SF2-APOB complex destabilizes APOB and contributes to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. PLoS Genet 2020; 16:e1008955. [PMID: 32776921 PMCID: PMC7462549 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1008955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2020] [Revised: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 06/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a metabolic disorder characterized by excess lipid accumulation in the liver without significant consumption of alcohol. The transmembrane 6 superfamily member 2 (TM6SF2) E167K missense variant strongly associates with NAFLD in humans. The E167K mutation destabilizes TM6SF2, resulting in hepatic lipid accumulation and low serum lipid levels. However, the molecular mechanism by which TM6SF2 regulates lipid metabolism remains unclear. By using tandem affinity purification in combination with mass spectrometry, we found that apolipoprotein B (APOB), ER lipid raft protein (ERLIN) 1 and 2 were TM6SF2-interacting proteins. ERLINs and TM6SF2 mutually bound and stabilized each other. TM6SF2 bound and stabilized APOB via two luminal loops. ERLINs did not interact with APOB directly but still increased APOB stability through stabilizing TM6SF2. This APOB stabilization was hampered by the E167K mutation that reduced the protein expression of TM6SF2. In mice, knockout of Tm6sf2 and knockdown of Tm6sf2 or Erlins decreased hepatic APOB protein level, causing lipid accumulation in the liver and lowering lipid levels in the serum. We conclude that defective APOB stabilization, as a result of ERLINs or TM6SF2 deficiency or E167K mutation, is a key factor contributing to NAFLD. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a very common liver disorder that occurs in people who do not drink too much alcohol. It initiates from extra fat storage in the liver and can advance to hepatitis, fibrosis, liver failure and liver cancer. NAFLD is often associated with other health problems such as obesity, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia. The TM6SF2 gene variant is a strong risk factor for NAFLD in humans. However, the mechanism by which loss of TM6SF2 protein causes NAFLD is unclear. Here, we demonstrate that TM6SF2 forms a complex with ERLINs and APOB. ERLINs and TM6SF2 stabilize each other, and TM6SF2 stabilizes APOB. In mice, ablating the expression of ERLINs or TM6SF2 lowers APOB protein level, causing lipid accumulation in the liver while decreasing lipid levels in the blood. These phenotypes resemble the symptoms of NAFLD patients carrying TM6SF2 mutations. We conclude that TM6SF2 promotes APOB stability via complex formation and that defective APOB stabilization is one of the underlying causes of NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo-Tao Li
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Ming Sun
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yun-Feng Li
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Ju-Qiong Wang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Zi-Mu Zhou
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Bao-Liang Song
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Jie Luo
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- * E-mail:
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Meroni M, Longo M, Dongiovanni P. Genetic and metabolic factors: the perfect combination to treat metabolic associated fatty liver disease. EXPLORATION OF MEDICINE 2020. [DOI: 10.37349/emed.2020.00015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of nonalcoholic or more recently re-defined metabolic associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is rapidly growing worldwide. It is characterized by hepatic fat accumulation exceeding 5% of liver weight not attributable to alcohol consumption. MAFLD refers to an umbrella of conditions ranging from simple steatosis to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis which may finally progress to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. MAFLD is closely related to components of the metabolic syndrome and to environmental factors. In addition to the latter, genetic predisposition plays a key role in MAFLD pathogenesis and strictly contributes to its progressive forms. The candidate genes which have been related to MAFLD hereditability are mainly involved in lipids remodeling, lipid droplets assembly, lipoprotein packaging and secretion, de novo lipogenesis, and mitochondrial redox status. In the recent years, it has emerged the opportunity to translate the genetics into clinics by aggregating the genetic variants mostly associated with MAFLD in polygenic risk scores. These scores might be used in combination with metabolic factors to identify those patients at higher risk to develop more severe liver disease and to schedule an individual therapeutic approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marica Meroni
- General Medicine and Metabolic Diseases, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milano, Italy; Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20122 Milano, Italy
| | - Miriam Longo
- General Medicine and Metabolic Diseases, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milano, Italy; Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20122 Milano, Italy
| | - Paola Dongiovanni
- General Medicine and Metabolic Diseases, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milano, Italy
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68
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Botello-Manilla AE, Chávez-Tapia NC, Uribe M, Nuño-Lámbarri N. Genetics and epigenetics purpose in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2020; 14:733-748. [PMID: 32552211 DOI: 10.1080/17474124.2020.1780915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) comprises a broad spectrum of diseases, which can progress from benign steatosis to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. NAFLD is the most common chronic liver disease in developed countries, affecting approximately 25% of the general population. Insulin resistance, adipose tissue dysfunction, mitochondrial and endoplasmic reticulum stress, chronic inflammation, genetic and epigenetic factors are NAFLD triggers that control the disease susceptibility and progression. AREAS COVERED In recent years a large number of investigations have been carried out to elucidate genetic and epigenetic factors in the disease pathogenesis, as well as the search for diagnostic markers and therapeutic targets. This paper objective is to report the most studied genetic and epigenetic variants around NAFLD. EXPERT OPINION NAFLD lead to various comorbidities, which have a considerable impact on the patient wellness and life quality, as well as on the costs they generate for the country's health services. It is essential to continue with molecular research, since it could be used as a clinical tool for prognosis and disease severity. Specifically, in the field of hepatology, plasma miRNAs could provide a novel tool in liver diseases diagnosis and monitoring, representing an alternative to invasive diagnostic procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Norberto Carlos Chávez-Tapia
- Traslational Research Unit, Médica Sur Clinic & Foundation , Mexico City, Mexico.,Obesity and Digestive Diseases Unit, Médica Sur Clinic & Foundation , Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Misael Uribe
- Obesity and Digestive Diseases Unit, Médica Sur Clinic & Foundation , Mexico City, Mexico
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Trépo E, Valenti L. Update on NAFLD genetics: From new variants to the clinic. J Hepatol 2020; 72:1196-1209. [PMID: 32145256 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2020.02.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 218] [Impact Index Per Article: 54.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2019] [Revised: 02/04/2020] [Accepted: 02/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the leading cause of liver diseases in high-income countries and the burden of NAFLD is increasing at an alarming rate. The risk of developing NAFLD and related complications is highly variable among individuals and is determined by environmental and genetic factors. Genome-wide association studies have uncovered robust and reproducible associations between variations in genes such as PNPLA3, TM6SF2, MBOAT7, GCKR, HSD17B13 and the natural history of NAFLD. These findings have provided compelling new insights into the biology of NAFLD and highlighted potentially attractive pharmaceutical targets. More recently the development of polygenic risk scores, which have shown promising results for the clinical risk prediction of other complex traits (such as cardiovascular disease and breast cancer), have provided new impetus for the clinical validation of genetic variants in NAFLD risk stratification. Herein, we review current knowledge on the genetic architecture of NAFLD, including gene-environment interactions, and discuss the implications for disease pathobiology, drug discovery and risk prediction. We particularly focus on the potential clinical translation of recent genetic advances, discussing methodological hurdles that must be overcome before these discoveries can be implemented in everyday practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Trépo
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatopancreatology and Digestive Oncology, C.U.B. Hôpital Erasme, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium; Laboratory of Experimental Gastroenterology, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Luca Valenti
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy; Translational Medicine - Department of Transfusion Medicine and Hematology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy.
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Carlsson B, Lindén D, Brolén G, Liljeblad M, Bjursell M, Romeo S, Loomba R. Review article: the emerging role of genetics in precision medicine for patients with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2020; 51:1305-1320. [PMID: 32383295 PMCID: PMC7318322 DOI: 10.1111/apt.15738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2019] [Revised: 01/13/2020] [Accepted: 03/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is a severe form of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) characterised by liver fat accumulation, inflammation and progressive fibrosis. Emerging data indicate that genetic susceptibility increases risks of NAFLD, NASH and NASH-related cirrhosis. AIMS To review NASH genetics and discuss the potential for precision medicine approaches to treatment. METHOD PubMed search and inclusion of relevant literature. RESULTS Single-nucleotide polymorphisms in PNPLA3, TM6SF2, GCKR, MBOAT7 and HSD17B13 are clearly associated with NASH development or progression. These genetic variants are common and have moderate-to-large effect sizes for development of NAFLD, NASH and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The genes play roles in lipid remodelling in lipid droplets, hepatic very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) secretion and de novo lipogenesis. The PNPLA3 I148M variant (rs738409) has large effects, with approximately twofold increased odds of NAFLD and threefold increased odds of NASH and HCC per allele. Obesity interacts with PNPLA3 I148M to elevate liver fat content and increase rates of NASH. Although the isoleucine-to-methionine substitution at amino acid position 148 of the PNPLA3 enzyme inactivates its lipid remodelling activity, the effect of PNPLA3 I148M results from trans-repression of another lipase (ATGL/PNPLA2) by sequestration of a shared cofactor (CGI-58/ABHD5), leading to decreased hepatic lipolysis and VLDL secretion. In homozygous Pnpla3 I148M knock-in rodent models of NAFLD, targeted PNPLA3 mRNA knockdown reduces hepatic steatosis, inflammation and fibrosis. CONCLUSION The emerging genetic and molecular understanding of NASH paves the way for novel interventions, including precision medicines that can modulate the activity of specific genes associated with NASH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Björn Carlsson
- Research and Early DevelopmentCardiovascular, Renal and MetabolismBioPharmaceuticals R&DAstraZenecaGothenburgSweden
| | - Daniel Lindén
- Research and Early DevelopmentCardiovascular, Renal and MetabolismBioPharmaceuticals R&DAstraZenecaGothenburgSweden,Division of EndocrinologyDepartment of Neuroscience and PhysiologySahlgrenska AcademyUniversity of GothenburgGothenburgSweden
| | - Gabriella Brolén
- Precision MedicineCardiovascular, Renal and MetabolismR&DAstraZenecaGothenburgSweden
| | - Mathias Liljeblad
- Research and Early DevelopmentCardiovascular, Renal and MetabolismBioPharmaceuticals R&DAstraZenecaGothenburgSweden
| | - Mikael Bjursell
- Research and Early DevelopmentCardiovascular, Renal and MetabolismBioPharmaceuticals R&DAstraZenecaGothenburgSweden
| | - Stefano Romeo
- Department of Molecular and Clinical MedicineUniversity of GothenburgGothenburgSweden,Clinical Nutrition UnitDepartment of Medical and Surgical SciencesMagna Graecia UniversityCatanzaroItaly,Cardiology DepartmentSahlgrenska University HospitalGothenburgSweden
| | - Rohit Loomba
- NAFLD Research CenterDivision of GastroenterologyUniversity of California San DiegoSan DiegoCAUSA
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Molecular Mechanisms Regulating Obesity-Associated Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12051290. [PMID: 32443737 PMCID: PMC7281233 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12051290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Revised: 05/14/2020] [Accepted: 05/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Obesity is a global, intractable issue, altering inflammatory and stress response pathways, and promoting tissue adiposity and tumorigenesis. Visceral fat accumulation is correlated with primary tumor recurrence, poor prognosis and chemotherapeutic resistance. Accumulating evidence highlights a close association between obesity and an increased incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Obesity drives HCC, and obesity-associated tumorigenesis develops via nonalcoholic fatty liver (NAFL), progressing to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and ultimately to HCC. The better molecular elucidation and proteogenomic characterization of obesity-associated HCC might eventually open up potential therapeutic avenues. The mechanisms relating obesity and HCC are correlated with adipose tissue remodeling, alteration in the gut microbiome, genetic factors, ER stress, oxidative stress and epigenetic changes. During obesity-related hepatocarcinogenesis, adipokine secretion is dysregulated and the nuclear factor erythroid 2 related factor 1 (Nrf-1), nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K)/phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN)/Akt, and Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT) signaling pathways are activated. This review captures the present trends allied with the molecular mechanisms involved in obesity-associated hepatic tumorigenesis, showcasing next generation molecular therapeutic strategies and their mechanisms for the successful treatment of HCC.
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Raja AM, Ciociola E, Ahmad IN, Dar FS, Naqvi SMS, Moaeen-ud-Din M, Raja GK, Romeo S, Mancina RM. Genetic Susceptibility to Chronic Liver Disease in Individuals from Pakistan. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21103558. [PMID: 32443539 PMCID: PMC7278956 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21103558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Revised: 05/14/2020] [Accepted: 05/15/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic liver disease, with viral or non-viral etiology, is endemic in many countries and is a growing burden in Asia. Among the Asian countries, Pakistan has the highest prevalence of chronic liver disease. Despite this, the genetic susceptibility to chronic liver disease in this country has not been investigated. We performed a comprehensive analysis of the most robustly associated common genetic variants influencing chronic liver disease in a cohort of individuals from Pakistan. A total of 587 subjects with chronic liver disease and 68 healthy control individuals were genotyped for the HSD17B13 rs7261356, MBOAT7 rs641738, GCKR rs1260326, PNPLA3 rs738409, TM6SF2 rs58542926 and PPP1R3B rs4841132 variants. The variants distribution between case and control group and their association with chronic liver disease were tested by chi-square and binary logistic analysis, respectively. We report for the first time that HSD17B13 variant results in a 50% reduced risk for chronic liver disease; while MBOAT7; GCKR and PNPLA3 variants increase this risk by more than 35% in Pakistani individuals. Our genetic analysis extends the protective role of the HSD17B13 variant against chronic liver disease and disease risk conferred by the MBOAT7; GCKR and PNPLA3 variants in the Pakistani population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asad Mehmood Raja
- University Institute of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University Rawalpindi, Rawalpindi 46300, Pakistan; (A.M.R.); (S.M.S.N.); (G.K.R.)
| | - Ester Ciociola
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, The Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Wallenberg Laboratory, 413 45 Gothenburg, Sweden;
| | - Imran Nazir Ahmad
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Shifa International Hospitals Ltd., Islamabad 44790, Pakistan;
| | - Faisal Saud Dar
- Liver Transplantation, Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Services Unit, Shifa International Hospitals Ltd., Islamabad 44790, Pakistan;
| | - Syed Muhammad Saqlan Naqvi
- University Institute of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University Rawalpindi, Rawalpindi 46300, Pakistan; (A.M.R.); (S.M.S.N.); (G.K.R.)
| | - Muhammad Moaeen-ud-Din
- Department of Animal Breeding and Genetics/National Center for Livestock Breeding, Genetics & Genomics, Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University Rawalpindi, Rawalpindi 46300, Pakistan;
| | - Ghazala Kaukab Raja
- University Institute of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University Rawalpindi, Rawalpindi 46300, Pakistan; (A.M.R.); (S.M.S.N.); (G.K.R.)
| | - Stefano Romeo
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, The Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Wallenberg Laboratory, 413 45 Gothenburg, Sweden;
- Department of Cardiology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, 413 45 Gothenburg, Sweden
- Clinical Nutrition Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University Magna Graecia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
- Correspondence: (S.R.); (R.M.M.); Tel.: +46-(0)313-426-735 (S.R.); +46-(0)31342186 (R.M.M.)
| | - Rosellina Margherita Mancina
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, The Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Wallenberg Laboratory, 413 45 Gothenburg, Sweden;
- Correspondence: (S.R.); (R.M.M.); Tel.: +46-(0)313-426-735 (S.R.); +46-(0)31342186 (R.M.M.)
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Hurrell T, Kastrinou-Lampou V, Fardellas A, Hendriks DFG, Nordling Å, Johansson I, Baze A, Parmentier C, Richert L, Ingelman-Sundberg M. Human Liver Spheroids as a Model to Study Aetiology and Treatment of Hepatic Fibrosis. Cells 2020; 9:cells9040964. [PMID: 32295224 PMCID: PMC7227007 DOI: 10.3390/cells9040964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2020] [Revised: 04/02/2020] [Accepted: 04/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease affects approximately one billion adults worldwide. Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is a progressive disease and underlies the advancement to liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma, for which there are no FDA-approved drug therapies. We developed a hetero-cellular spheroid system comprised of primary human hepatocytes (PHH) co-cultured with crude fractions of primary human liver non-parenchymal cells (NPC) from several matched or non-matched donors, to identify phenotypes with utility in investigating NASH pathogenesis and drug screening. Co-culture spheroids displayed stable expression of hepatocyte markers (albumin, CYP3A4) with the integration of stellate (vimentin, PDGFRβ), endothelial (vWF, PECAM1), and CD68-positive cells. Several co-culture spheroids developed a fibrotic phenotype either spontaneously, primarily observed in PNPLA3 mutant donors, or after challenge with free fatty acids (FFA), as determined by COL1A1 and αSMA expression. This phenotype, as well as TGFβ1 expression, was attenuated with an ALK5 inhibitor. Furthermore, CYP2E1, which has a strong pro-oxidant effect, was induced by NPCs and FFA. This system was used to evaluate the effects of anti-NASH drug candidates, which inhibited fibrillary deposition following 7 days of exposure. In conclusion, we suggest that this system is suitable for the evaluation of NASH pathogenesis and screening of anti-NASH drug candidates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tracey Hurrell
- Ingelman-Sundberg Group, Section of Pharmacogenetics, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, 171 65 Stockholm, Sweden; (T.H.); (V.K.-L.); (A.F.); (D.F.G.H.); (Å.N.); (I.J.)
| | - Vlasia Kastrinou-Lampou
- Ingelman-Sundberg Group, Section of Pharmacogenetics, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, 171 65 Stockholm, Sweden; (T.H.); (V.K.-L.); (A.F.); (D.F.G.H.); (Å.N.); (I.J.)
| | - Achilleas Fardellas
- Ingelman-Sundberg Group, Section of Pharmacogenetics, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, 171 65 Stockholm, Sweden; (T.H.); (V.K.-L.); (A.F.); (D.F.G.H.); (Å.N.); (I.J.)
| | - Delilah F. G. Hendriks
- Ingelman-Sundberg Group, Section of Pharmacogenetics, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, 171 65 Stockholm, Sweden; (T.H.); (V.K.-L.); (A.F.); (D.F.G.H.); (Å.N.); (I.J.)
| | - Åsa Nordling
- Ingelman-Sundberg Group, Section of Pharmacogenetics, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, 171 65 Stockholm, Sweden; (T.H.); (V.K.-L.); (A.F.); (D.F.G.H.); (Å.N.); (I.J.)
| | - Inger Johansson
- Ingelman-Sundberg Group, Section of Pharmacogenetics, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, 171 65 Stockholm, Sweden; (T.H.); (V.K.-L.); (A.F.); (D.F.G.H.); (Å.N.); (I.J.)
| | - Audrey Baze
- KaLy-Cell, 67115 Plobsheim, France; (A.B.); (C.P.); (L.R.)
| | | | | | - Magnus Ingelman-Sundberg
- Ingelman-Sundberg Group, Section of Pharmacogenetics, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, 171 65 Stockholm, Sweden; (T.H.); (V.K.-L.); (A.F.); (D.F.G.H.); (Å.N.); (I.J.)
- Correspondence:
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Romeo S, Sanyal A, Valenti L. Leveraging Human Genetics to Identify Potential New Treatments for Fatty Liver Disease. Cell Metab 2020; 31:35-45. [PMID: 31914377 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmet.2019.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2019] [Revised: 10/07/2019] [Accepted: 12/06/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Fatty liver disease (FLD), including its more severe pathologies, namely steatohepatitis, hepatocarcinoma, and cirrhosis, is the most common cause of chronic liver disease worldwide and is projected to become the leading cause of hepatocellular carcinoma and end-stage liver disease. FLD is heterogeneous with multiple etiologies and diverse histological phenotypes, so therapies will ultimately need to be individualized for relevant targets. Inherited factors contribute to FLD, and most of the genetic variation influencing liver disease development and progression is derived from genes involved in lipid biology, including PNPLA3, TM6SF2, GCKR, MBOAT7, and HSD17B13. From this point of view, we focus in this perspective on how human molecular genetics of FLD have highlighted defects in hepatic lipid handling as a major common mechanism of its pathology and how this insight could be leveraged to treat and prevent its more serious complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Romeo
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden; Clinical Nutrition Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro, Italy; Cardiology Department, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden.
| | - Arun Sanyal
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA.
| | - Luca Valenti
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, Translational Medicine, Department of Transfusion Medicine and Hematology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda, Pad Marangoni, Milan, Italy.
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Lin YC, Wu CC, Ni YH. New Perspectives on Genetic Prediction for Pediatric Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease. Front Pediatr 2020; 8:603654. [PMID: 33363067 PMCID: PMC7755886 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2020.603654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic or recently re-defined metabolic associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), a spectrum of progressive hepatic disease, has become a public health issue in obese children and adolescents. MAFLD is a complex metabolic disease strongly associated with obesity and insulin resistance. It is not known why not every obese subject will develop MAFLD. Different ethnic/racial groups display differences in MAFLD prevalence, indicating genetic factor plays a role. In the past two decades, sequence variations in genetic loci, including PNPLA3, TM6SF2, GCKR, MBOAT7, HSD17B13, etc. have been shown to confer susceptibility to MAFLD in children and adults. This review article provides an updated viewpoint of genetic predictors related to pediatric MAFLD. We discuss whether these susceptible genes can be clinically used for risk stratification and personalized care. Understanding human genetics and molecular mechanisms can give important information not only for prediction of risk but also on how to design drugs. In view of current epidemic of MAFLD worldwide, it is necessary to identify which children with MAFLD progress rapidly and need earlier intervention. In the future, a comprehensive analysis of individualized genetic and environmental factors may help assess the risk of children with MAFLD and personalize their treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Cheng Lin
- Department of Pediatrics, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, New Taipei City, Taiwan.,Department of Healthcare Administration, Oriental Institute of Technology, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Chien Wu
- Department of Pediatrics, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Yen-Hsuan Ni
- Departments of Pediatrics, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
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Genes Potentially Associated with Familial Hypercholesterolemia. Biomolecules 2019; 9:biom9120807. [PMID: 31795497 PMCID: PMC6995538 DOI: 10.3390/biom9120807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2019] [Revised: 11/24/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
This review addresses the contribution of some genes to the phenotype of familial hypercholesterolemia. At present, it is known that the pathogenesis of this disease involves not only a pathological variant of low-density lipoprotein receptor and its ligands (apolipoprotein B, proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 or low-density lipoprotein receptor adaptor protein 1), but also lipids, including sphingolipids, fatty acids, and sterols. The genetic cause of familial hypercholesterolemia is unknown in 20%–40% of the cases. The genes STAP1 (signal transducing adaptor family member 1), CYP7A1 (cytochrome P450 family 7 subfamily A member 1), LIPA (lipase A, lysosomal acid type), ABCG5 (ATP binding cassette subfamily G member 5), ABCG8 (ATP binding cassette subfamily G member 8), and PNPLA5 (patatin like phospholipase domain containing 5), which can cause aberrations of lipid metabolism, are being evaluated as new targets for the diagnosis and personalized management of familial hypercholesterolemia.
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