Oleic acid-PPARγ-FABP4 loop fuels cholangiocarcinoma colonization in lymph node metastases microenvironment

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Lymph node metastasis is a significant risk factor for patients with cholangiocarcinoma, but the mechanisms underlying cholangiocarcinoma colonization in the lymph node microenvironment remain unclear. We aimed to determine whether metabolic reprogramming fueled the adaptation and remodeling of cholangiocarcinoma cells to the lymph node microenvironment.

APPROACH AND RESULTS

Here, we applied single-cell RNA sequencing of primary tumor lesions and paired lymph node metastases from patients with cholangiocarcinoma and revealed significantly reduced intertumor heterogeneity and syntropic lipid metabolic reprogramming of cholangiocarcinoma after metastasis to lymph nodes, which was verified by pan-cancer single-cell RNA sequencing analysis, highlighting the essential role of lipid metabolism in tumor colonization in lymph nodes. Metabolomics and in vivo CRISPR/Cas9 screening identified PPARγ as a crucial regulator in fueling cholangiocarcinoma colonization in lymph nodes through the oleic acid-PPARγ-fatty acid-binding protein 4 positive feedback loop by upregulating fatty acid uptake and oxidation. Patient-derived organoids and animal models have demonstrated that blocking this loop impairs cholangiocarcinoma proliferation and colonization in the lymph node microenvironment and is superior to systemic inhibition of fatty acid oxidation. PPARγ-regulated fatty acid metabolic reprogramming in cholangiocarcinoma also contributes to the immune-suppressive niche in lymph node metastases by producing kynurenine and was found to be associated with tumor relapse, immune-suppressive lymph node microenvironment, and poor immune checkpoint blockade response.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results reveal the role of the oleic acid-PPARγ-fatty acid-binding protein 4 loop in fueling cholangiocarcinoma colonization in lymph nodes and demonstrate that PPARγ-regulated lipid metabolic reprogramming is a promising therapeutic target for relieving cholangiocarcinoma lymph node metastasis burden and reducing further progression.

Comparing animal well-being between bile duct ligation models

A prevailing animal model currently used to study severe human diseases like obstructive cholestasis, primary biliary or sclerosing cholangitis, biliary atresia, and acute liver injury is the common bile duct ligation (cBDL). Modifications of this model include ligation of the left hepatic bile duct (pBDL) or ligation of the left bile duct with the corresponding left hepatic artery (pBDL+pAL). Both modifications induce cholestasis only in the left liver lobe. After induction of total or partial cholestasis in mice, the well-being of these animals was evaluated by assessing burrowing behavior, body weight, and a distress score. To compare the pathological features of these animal models, plasma levels of liver enzymes, bile acids, bilirubin, and within the liver tissue, necrosis, fibrosis, inflammation, as well as expression of genes involved in the synthesis or transport of bile acids were assessed. The survival rate of the animals and their well-being was comparable between pBDL+pAL and pBDL. However, surgical intervention by pBDL+pAL caused confluent necrosis and collagen depositions at the edge of necrotic tissue, whereas pBDL caused focal necrosis and fibrosis in between portal areas. Interestingly, pBDL animals had a higher survival rate and their well-being was significantly improved compared to cBDL animals. On day 14 after cBDL liver aspartate, as well as alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, glutamate dehydrogenase, bile acids, and bilirubin were significantly elevated, but only glutamate dehydrogenase activity was increased after pBDL. Thus, pBDL may be primarily used to evaluate local features such as inflammation and fibrosis or regulation of genes involved in bile acid synthesis or transport but does not allow to study all systemic features of cholestasis. The pBDL model also has the advantage that fewer mice are needed, because of its high survival rate, and that the well-being of the animals is improved compared to the cBDL animal model.

Fibrinogen-like 1: A hepatokine linking liver physiology to hematology

A recent study identified the critical contribution of the hepatokine FGL1 to the regulation of iron metabolism during the recovery from anemia. FGL1 is secreted by hepatocytes in response to hypoxia to sequester BMP ligands and repress the transcription of the iron-regulatory hormone hepcidin. This process ensures the proper supply of iron to the bone marrow for new red blood cell synthesis and the restoration of physiological oxygen levels. FGL1 may therefore contribute to the recovery from common anemias and cause iron overload in chronic anemias with ineffective erythropoiesis, such as ß-thalassemia, dyserythropoietic anemia, and myelodysplastic syndromes. However, FGL1 has also been described as a regulator of hepatocyte proliferation, glucose homeostasis, and insulin signaling, as well as a mediator of liver steatosis and immune evasion. Chronic exposure to elevated levels of FGL1 during anemia may therefore have systemic metabolic effects besides iron regulation and erythropoiesis. Here, we are providing an overview of the proposed functions of FGL1 in physiology and pathophysiology.

A novel experimental model of MetALD in male mice recapitulates key features of severe alcohol-associated hepatitis

BACKGROUND

The recent increase in the incidence of alcohol-associated hepatitis (AH) coincides with the obesity epidemic in the United States. However, current mouse models do not fully replicate the combined insults of obesity, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis, and alcohol. The aim of this study was to develop a new mouse model that recapitulates the robust inflammatory and fibrotic phenotype characteristic of human MetALD.

METHODS

Eight- to 10-week-old male C57BL/6 mice were fed chow or high fat-cholesterol-sugar diet (metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis diet) and in each group, some received alcohol in drinking water (ad libitum) and weekly alcohol binges (EtOH) for 3 months. The liver was assessed for features of AH.

RESULTS

MetALD mice displayed increased liver damage indicated by highly elevated ALT and bilirubin levels compared to all other groups. Liver steatosis was significantly greater in the MetALD mice compared to all other experimental groups. The inflammatory phenotype of MetALD was also recapitulated, including increased IL-6 and IL-1β protein levels as well as increased CD68+ macrophages and Ly6G+ neutrophils in the liver. Sirius red staining and expression of collagen 1, alpha-smooth muscle actin indicated advanced fibrosis in the livers of MetALD mice. In addition, indicators of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition markers were increased in MetALD mice compared to all other groups. Furthermore, we found increased ductular reaction, dysregulated hedgehog signaling, and decreased liver synthetic functions, consistent with severe AH.

CONCLUSIONS

Alcohol administration in mice combined with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis diet recapitulates key characteristics of human AH including liver damage, steatosis, robust systemic inflammation, and liver immune cell infiltration. This model results in advanced liver fibrosis, ductular reaction, decreased synthetic function, and hepatocyte dedifferentiation, suggesting a robust model of MetALD in mice.

Gradual rewarming with a hemoglobin-based oxygen carrier improves viability of donation after circulatory death in rat livers

Background

Donation after circulatory death (DCD) grafts are vital for increasing available donor organs. Gradual rewarming during machine perfusion has proven effective in mitigating reperfusion injury and enhancing graft quality. Limited data exist on artificial oxygen carriers as an effective solution to meet the increasing metabolic demand with temperature changes. The aim of the present study was to assess the efficacy and safety of utilizing a hemoglobin-based oxygen carrier (HBOC) during the gradual rewarming of DCD rat livers.

Methods

Liver grafts were procured after 30 min of warm ischemia. The effect of 90 min of oxygenated rewarming perfusion from ice cold temperatures (4 °C) to 37 °C with HBOC after cold storage was evaluated and the results were compared with cold storage alone. Reperfusion at 37 °C was performed to assess the post-preservation recovery.

Results

Gradual rewarming with HBOC significantly enhanced recovery, demonstrated by markedly lower lactate levels and reduced vascular resistance compared to cold-stored liver grafts. Increased bile production in the HBOC group was noted, indicating improved liver function and bile synthesis capacity. Histological examination showed reduced cellular damage and better tissue preservation in the HBOC-treated livers compared to those subjected to cold storage alone.

Conclusion

This study suggests the safety of using HBOC during rewarming perfusion of rat livers as no harmful effect was detected. Furthermore, the viability assessment indicated improvement in graft function.

Modulating PCGF4/BMI1 Stability Is an Efficient Metastasis-Regulatory Strategy Used by Distinct Subtypes of Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts in Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma

Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) is a highly malignant neoplasm prone to metastasis. Whether cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) affect the metastasis of ICC is unclear. Herein, ICC patient-derived CAF lines and related cancerous cell lines were established and the effects of CAFs on the tumor progressive properties of the ICC cancerous cells were analyzed. CAFs could be classified into cancer-restraining or cancer-promoting categories based on distinct tumorigenic effects. The RNA-sequencing analyses of ICC cancerous cell lines identified polycomb group ring finger 4 (PCGF4; alias BMI1) as a potential metastasis regulator. The changes of PCGF4 levels in ICC cells mirrored the restraining or promoting effects of CAFs on ICC migration. Immunohistochemical analyses on the ICC tissue microarrays indicated that PCGF4 was negatively correlated with overall survival of ICC. The promoting effects of PCGF4 on cell migration, drug resistance activity, and stemness properties were confirmed. Mechanistically, cancer-restraining CAFs triggered the proteasome-dependent degradation of PCGF4, whereas cancer-promoting CAFs enhanced the stability of PCGF4 via activating the IL-6/phosphorylated STAT3 pathway. In summary, the current data identified the role of CAFs in ICC metastasis and revealed a new mechanism of the CAFs on ICC progression in which PCGF4 acted as the key effector by both categories of CAFs. These findings shed light on developing comprehensive therapeutic strategies for ICC.

Vitamin E alleviates chlorpyrifos induced glutathione depletion, lipid peroxidation and iron accumulation to inhibit ferroptosis in hepatocytes and mitigate toxicity in zebrafish

Organophosphates, a widely used group of pesticides, can cause severe toxicity in human beings and other non-target organisms. Liver, being the primary site for xenobiotic metabolism, is extremely vulnerable to xenobiotic-induced toxicity. Considering the numerous vital functions performed by the liver, including xenobiotic detoxification, protecting this organ from the ubiquitous pesticides in our food and environment is essential for maintaining homeostasis. In this study, we have investigated the impact of the organophosphate pesticide, Chlorpyrifos (CPF), on zebrafish liver at a concentration (300 μg/L) which is environmentally realistic. We have also demonstrated the role of dietary supplementation of α-tocopherol or Vitamin E (Vit E) (500 mg/kg feed) in mitigating pesticide-induced liver toxicity. Mechanistically, we showed that Vit E resulted in significant elevation of the Nrf2 and its downstream antioxidant enzyme activities and gene expressions, especially that of GST and GPx, resulting in reduction of CPF-induced intracellular lipid ROS and hepatic LPO. Further interrogation, such as analysis of GSH: GSSG ratio, intracellular iron concentration, iron metabolizing genes, mitochondrial dysfunction etc. revealed that CPF induces ferroptosis which can be reversed by Vit E supplementation. Ultimately, reduced concentration of CPF in zebrafish serum and flesh highlighted the role of Vit E in ameliorating CPF toxicity.

Research progress and application of liver organoids for disease modeling and regenerative therapy

The liver is a major metabolic organ of the human body and has a high incidence of diseases. In recent years, the annual incidence of liver disease has increased, seriously endangering human life and health. The study of the occurrence and development mechanism of liver diseases, discovery of new therapeutic targets, and establishment of new methods of medical treatment are major issues related to the national economy and people's livelihood. The development of stable and effective research models is expected to provide new insights into the pathogenesis of liver diseases and the search for more effective treatment options. Organoid technology is a new in vitro culture system, and organoids constructed by human cells can simulate the morphological structure, gene expression, and glucose and lipid metabolism of organs in vivo, providing a new model for related research on liver diseases. This paper reviews the latest research progress on liver organoids from the establishment of cell sources and application of liver organoids and discusses their application potential in the field of liver disease research.

Vitamin D Receptor Regulates Liver Regeneration After Partial Hepatectomy in Male Mice

Vitamin D signals through the vitamin D receptor (VDR) to induce its end-organ effects. Hepatic stellate cells control development of liver fibrosis in response to stressors and vitamin D signaling decreases fibrogenesis. VDR expression in hepatocytes is low in healthy liver, and the role of VDR in hepatocyte proliferation is unclear. Hepatocyte-VDR null mice (hVDR) were used to assess the role of VDR and vitamin D signaling in hepatic regeneration. hVDR mice have impaired liver regeneration and impaired hepatocyte proliferation associated with significant differential changes in bile salts. Notably, mice lacking hepatocyte VDR had significant increases in expression of conjugated bile acids after partial hepatectomy, consistent with failure to normalize hepatic function by the 14-day time point tested. Real-time PCR of hVDR and control livers showed significant changes in expression of cell-cycle genes including cyclins D1 and E1 and cyclin-dependent kinase 2. Gene expression profiling of hepatocytes treated with vitamin D or control showed regulation of groups of genes involved in liver proliferation, hepatitis, liver hyperplasia/hyperproliferation, and liver necrosis/cell death. Together, these studies demonstrate an important functional role for VDR in hepatocytes during liver regeneration. Combined with the known profibrotic effects of impaired VDR signaling in stellate cells, the studies provide a mechanism whereby vitamin D deficiency would both reduce hepatocyte proliferation and permit fibrosis, leading to significant liver compromise.

Chronotoxici-Plate Containing Droplet-Engineered Rhythmic Liver Organoids for Drug Toxicity Evaluation

The circadian clock coordinates the daily rhythmicity of biological processes, and its dysregulation is associated with various human diseases. Despite the direct targeting of rhythmic genes by many prevalent and World Health Organization (WHO) essential drugs, traditional approaches can't satisfy the need of explore multi-timepoint drug administration strategies across a wide range of drugs. Here, droplet-engineered primary liver organoids (DPLOs) are generated with rhythmic characteristics in 4 days, and developed Chronotoxici-plate as an in vitro high-throughput automated rhythmic tool for chronotherapy assessment within 7 days. Cryptochrome 1 (Cry1) is identified as a rhythmic marker in DPLOs, providing insights for rapid assessment of organoid rhythmicity. Using oxaliplatin as a representative drug, time-dependent variations are demonstrated in toxicity on the Chronotoxici-plate, highlighting the importance of considering time-dependent effects. Additionally, the role of chronobiology is underscored in primary organoid modeling. This study may provide tools for both precision chronotherapy and chronotoxicity in drug development by optimizing administration timing.

Hybrid Bioactive Hydrogel Promotes Liver Regeneration through the Activation of Kupffer Cells and ECM Remodeling After Partial Hepatectomy

Partial hepatectomy is an essential surgical technique used to treat advanced liver diseases such as liver tumors, as well as for performing liver transplants from living donors. However, postoperative complications such as bleeding, abdominal adhesions, wound infections, and inadequate liver regeneration pose significant challenges and increase morbidity and mortality rates. A self-repairing mixed hydrogel (O5H2/Cu2+/SCCK), containing stem cell derived cytokine (SCCK) derived from human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (HUMSCs) treated with the traditional Chinese remedy Tanshinone IIA (TSA), is developed. This SCCK, in conjunction with O5H2, demonstrates remarkable effects on Kupffer cell activation and extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling. This leads to the secretion of critical growth factors promoting enhanced proliferation of hepatocytes and endothelial cells, thereby facilitating liver regeneration and repair after partial hepatectomy. Furthermore, the hydrogel, featuring macrophage-regulating properties, effectively mitigates inflammation and oxidative stress damage in the incision area, creating an optimal environment for postoperative liver regeneration. The injectability and strong adhesion of the hydrogel enables rapid hemostasis at the incision site, while its physical barrier function prevents postoperative abdominal adhesions. Furthermore, the hydrogel's incorporation of Cu2+ provides comprehensive antibacterial effects, protecting against a wide range of bacteria types and reducing the chances of infections after surgery.

Loss of β-catenin reveals a role for glutathione in regulating oxidative stress during cholestatic liver disease

BACKGROUND

Cholestasis is an intractable liver disorder that results from impaired bile flow. We have previously shown that the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway regulates the progression of cholestatic liver disease through multiple mechanisms, including bile acid metabolism and hepatocyte proliferation. To further explore the impact of these functions during intrahepatic cholestasis, we exposed mice to a xenobiotic that causes selective biliary injury.

METHODS

α-naphthylisothiocyanate (ANIT) was administered to liver-specific knockout (KO) of β-catenin and wild-type mice in the diet. Mice were killed at 6 or 14 days to assess the severity of cholestatic liver disease, measure the expression of target genes, and perform biochemical analyses.

RESULTS

We found that the presence of β-catenin was protective against ANIT, as KO mice had a significantly lower survival rate than wild-type mice. Although serum markers of liver damage and total bile acid levels were similar between KO and wild-type mice, the KO had minor histological abnormalities, such as sinusoidal dilatation, concentric fibrosis around ducts, and decreased inflammation. Notably, both total glutathione levels and expression of glutathione-S-transferases, which catalyze the conjugation of ANIT to glutathione, were significantly decreased in KO after ANIT. Nuclear factor erythroid-derived 2-like 2, a master regulator of the antioxidant response, was activated in KO after ANIT as well as in a subset of patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis lacking activated β-catenin. Despite the activation of nuclear factor erythroid-derived 2-like 2, KO livers had increased lipid peroxidation and cell death, which likely contributed to mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

Loss of β-catenin leads to increased cellular injury and cell death during cholestasis through failure to neutralize oxidative stress, which may contribute to the pathology of this disease.

Diverse functions of SOX9 in liver development and homeostasis and hepatobiliary diseases

The liver is the central organ for digestion and detoxification and has unique metabolic and regenerative capacities. The hepatobiliary system originates from the foregut endoderm, in which cells undergo multiple events of cell proliferation, migration, and differentiation to form the liver parenchyma and ductal system under the hierarchical regulation of transcription factors. Studies on liver development and diseases have revealed that SRY-related high-mobility group box 9 (SOX9) plays an important role in liver embryogenesis and the progression of hepatobiliary diseases. SOX9 is not only a master regulator of cell fate determination and tissue morphogenesis, but also regulates various biological features of cancer, including cancer stemness, invasion, and drug resistance, making SOX9 a potential biomarker for tumor prognosis and progression. This review systematically summarizes the latest findings of SOX9 in hepatobiliary development, homeostasis, and disease. We also highlight the value of SOX9 as a novel biomarker and potential target for the clinical treatment of major liver diseases.

Fenofibrate-promoted hepatomegaly and liver regeneration are PPARα-dependent and partially related to the YAP pathway

Fenofibrate, a peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α (PPARα) agonist, is widely prescribed for hyperlipidemia management. Recent studies also showed that it has therapeutic potential in various liver diseases. However, its effects on hepatomegaly and liver regeneration and the involved mechanisms remain unclear. Here, the study showed that fenofibrate significantly promoted liver enlargement and regeneration post-partial hepatectomy in mice, which was dependent on hepatocyte-expressed PPARα. Yes-associated protein (YAP) is pivotal in manipulating liver growth and regeneration. We further identified that fenofibrate activated YAP signaling by suppressing its K48-linked ubiquitination, promoting its K63-linked ubiquitination, and enhancing the interaction and transcriptional activity of the YAP-TEAD complex. Pharmacological inhibition of YAP-TEAD interaction using verteporfin or suppression of YAP using AAV Yap shRNA in mice significantly attenuated fenofibrate-induced hepatomegaly. Other factors, such as MYC, KRT23, RAS, and RHOA, might also participate in fenofibrate-promoted hepatomegaly and liver regeneration. These studies demonstrate that fenofibrate-promoted liver enlargement and regeneration are PPARα-dependent and partially through activating the YAP signaling, with clinical implications of fenofibrate as a novel therapeutic agent for promoting liver regeneration.

Serum Fusion Transcripts to Assess the Risk of Hepatocellular Carcinoma and the Impact of Cancer Treatment through Machine Learning

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most fatal malignancies. Early diagnosis of HCC is crucial in reducing the risk for mortality. This study analyzed a panel of nine fusion transcripts in serum samples from 61 patients with HCC and 75 patients with non-HCC conditions, using TaqMan real-time quantitative RT-PCR. Seven of the nine fusions frequently detected in patients with HCC included: MAN2A1-FER (100%), SLC45A2-AMACR (62.3%), ZMPSTE24-ZMYM4 (62.3%), PTEN-NOLC1 (57.4%), CCNH-C5orf30 (55.7%), STAMBPL1-FAS (26.2%), and PCMTD1-SNTG1 (16.4%). Machine-learning models were constructed based on serum fusion-gene levels to predict HCC in the training cohort, using the leave-one-out cross-validation approach. One machine-learning model, called the four fusion genes logistic regression model (MAN2A1-FER≤40, CCNH-C5orf30≤38, SLC45A2-AMACR≤41, and PTEN-NOLC1≤40), produced accuracies of 91.5% and 83.3% in the training and testing cohorts, respectively. When serum α-fetal protein level was incorporated into the machine-learning model, a two fusion gene (MAN2A1-FER≤40, CCNH-C5orf30≤38) + α-fetal protein logistic regression model was found to generate an accuracy of 94.8% in the training cohort. The same model resulted in 95% accuracy in both the testing and combined cohorts. Cancer treatment was associated with reduced levels of most of the serum fusion transcripts. Serum fusion-gene machine-learning models may serve as important tools in screening for HCC and in monitoring the impact of HCC treatment.

Clinical application and potential pluripotent effects of hepatocyte growth factor in spinal cord injury regeneration

INTRODUCTION

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a condition in which the spinal cord parenchyma is damaged by various factors. The mammalian central nervous system has been considered unable to regenerate once damaged, but recent progress in basic research has gradually revealed that injured neural cells can indeed regenerate. Drug therapy using novel agents is being actively investigated as a new treatment for SCI. One notable treatment method is regeneration therapy using hepatocyte growth factors (HGF).

AREA COVERED

HGF has pluripotent neuroregenerative actions, as indicated by its neuroprotective and regenerative effects on the microenvironment and damaged cells, respectively. This review examines these effects in various phases of SCI, from basic research to clinical studies, and the application of this treatment to other diseases.

EXPERT OPINION

In regenerative medicine for SCI, drug therapies have tended to be more likely to be developed compared to cell replacement treatment. Nevertheless, there are still challenges to be addressed for these clinical applications due to a wide variety of pathology and animal experimental models of basic study, but HGF could be an effective treatment for SCI with expanded application.

Aberrant differentiation and proliferation of hepatocytes in chronic liver injury and liver tumors

Chronic liver injury induces liver cirrhosis and facilitates hepatocarcinogenesis. However, the effects of this condition on hepatocyte proliferation and differentiation are unclear. We showed that rodent hepatocytes display a ductular phenotype when they are cultured within a collagenous matrix. This process involves transdifferentiation without the emergence of hepatoblastic features and is at least partially reversible. During the ductular reaction in chronic liver diseases with progressive fibrosis, some hepatocytes, especially those adjacent to ectopic ductules, demonstrate ductular transdifferentiation, but the majority of increased ductules originate from the existing bile ductular system that undergoes extensive remodeling. In chronic injury, hepatocyte proliferation is weak but sustained, and most regenerative nodules in liver cirrhosis are composed of clonally proliferating hepatocytes, suggesting that a small fraction of hepatocytes maintain their proliferative capacity in chronic injury. In mouse hepatocarcinogenesis models, hepatocytes activate the expression of various fetal/neonatal genes, indicating that these cells undergo dedifferentiation. Hepatocyte-specific somatic integration of various oncogenes in mice demonstrated that hepatocytes may be the cells of origin for a broad spectrum of liver tumors through transdifferentiation and dedifferentiation. In conclusion, the phenotypic plasticity and heterogeneity of mature hepatocytes are important for understanding the pathogenesis of chronic liver diseases and liver tumors.

Mouse Models to Evaluate the Functional Role of the Tumor Microenvironment in Cancer Progression and Therapy Responses

The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a complex ecosystem of both cellular and noncellular components that functions to impact the evolution of cancer. Various aspects of the TME have been targeted for the control of cancer; however, TME composition is dynamic, with the overall abundance of immune cells, endothelial cells (ECs), fibroblasts, and extracellular matrix (ECM) as well as subsets of TME components changing at different stages of progression and in response to therapy. To effectively treat cancer, an understanding of the functional role of the TME is needed. Genetically engineered mouse models have enabled comprehensive insight into the complex interactions within the TME ecosystem that regulate disease progression. Here, we review recent advances in mouse models that have been employed to understand how the TME regulates cancer initiation, progression, metastasis, and response to therapy.

miR-9-5p and miR-221-3p Promote Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells to Alleviate Carbon Tetrachloride-Induced Liver Injury by Enhancing Human Mesenchymal Stem Cell Engraftment and Inhibiting Hepatic Stellate Cell Activation

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have shown great potential for the treatment of liver injuries, and the therapeutic efficacy greatly depends on their homing to the site of injury. In the present study, we detected significant upregulation of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) in the serum and liver in mice with acute or chronic liver injury. In vitro study revealed that upregulation of miR-9-5p or miR-221-3p promoted the migration of human MSCs (hMSCs) toward HGF. Moreover, overexpression of miR-9-5p or miR-221-3p promoted hMSC homing to the injured liver and resulted in significantly higher engraftment upon peripheral infusion. hMSCs reduced hepatic necrosis and inflammatory infiltration but showed little effect on extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition. By contrast, hMSCs overexpressing miR-9-5p or miR-221-3p resulted in not only less centrilobular necrosis and venous congestion but also a significant reduction of ECM deposition, leading to obvious improvement of hepatocyte morphology and alleviation of fibrosis around central vein and portal triads. Further studies showed that hMSCs inhibited the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) but could not decrease the expression of TIMP-1 upon acute injury and the expression of MCP-1 and TIMP-1 upon chronic injury, while hMSCs overexpressing miR-9-5p or miR-221-3p led to further inactivation of HSCs and downregulation of all three fibrogenic and proinflammatory factors TGF-β, MCP-1, and TIMP-1 upon both acute and chronic injuries. Overexpression of miR-9-5p or miR-221-3p significantly downregulated the expression of α-SMA and Col-1α1 in activated human hepatic stellate cell line LX-2, suggesting that miR-9-5p and miR-221-3p may partially contribute to the alleviation of liver injury by preventing HSC activation and collagen expression, shedding light on improving the therapeutic efficacy of hMSCs via microRNA modification.

Unveiling the impact of glutathione (GSH) and p53 gene deletion on tumor cell metabolism by amino acid and proteomics analysis

Background

Tumor cell inhibition is a pivotal focus in anti-cancer research, and extensive investigations have been conducted regarding the role of p53. Numerous studies have highlighted its close association with reactive oxygen species (ROS). However, the precise impact of the antioxidant glutathione (GSH) in this context remains inadequately elucidated. Here, we will elucidate the anti-cancer mechanisms mediated by p53 following treatment with GSH.

Methods

In this study, we employed a p53 gene knockout approach in SW480 colorectal cells and conducted comprehensive analyses of 20 amino acids and proteomics using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS).

Results

These analyses unveiled profound alterations in amino acids and proteins triggered by GSH treatment, shedding light on novel phenomena and delineating the intricate interplay between GSH and cellular proteins. The deletion of the p53 gene exerts a profound influence on tumor cell proliferation. Moreover, tumor cell proliferation is significantly affected by elevated GSH levels. Importantly, in the absence of the p53 gene, cells exhibit heightened sensitivity to GSH, leading to inhibited cell growth. The combined therapeutic approach involving GSH and p53 gene deletion expedites the demise of tumor cells. It is noteworthy that this treatment leads to a marked decline in amino acid metabolism, particularly affecting the down-regulation of methionine (Met) and phenylalanine (Phe) amino acids. Among the 41 proteins displaying significant changes, 8 exhibit consistent alterations, with 5 experiencing decreased levels and 3 demonstrating increased quantities. These proteins primarily participate in crucial cellular metabolic processes and immune functions.

Conclusions

In conclusion, the concurrent administration of GSH treatment and p53 gene deletion triggers substantial modifications in the amino acid and protein metabolism of tumor cells, primarily characterized by down-regulation. This, in turn, compromises cell metabolic activity and immune function, ultimately culminating in the demise of tumor cells. These newfound insights hold promising implications and could pave the way for the development of straightforward and efficacious anti-cancer treatments.

Mechanisms and therapeutic targets of ErbB family receptors in hepatocellular carcinoma: a narrative review

Background and Objective

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a highly heterogeneous and aggressive tumor. In recent years, the incidence of HCC has been increasing worldwide. Despite notable advancements in treatment methodologies, the prognosis of HCC patients remains unsatisfactory. ErbB family proteins play important roles in the occurrence, progression, and metastasis of HCC, and their abnormal expression is often closely associated with poor patient prognosis. This article sought to investigate the current status and research progress of ErbB family protein targeted therapy in HCC in recent years to provide a reference for basic research and clinical treatment.

Methods

We performed a comprehensive, narrative review of the latest literature to define the current progress of ErbB family receptors in HCC in both the pre-clinical and clinical arenas.

Key Content and Findings

The ErbB family belongs to the tyrosine kinase (TK) receptor family that comprises four members. These members are closely associated with proliferation, cell cycle regulation, and migration during HCC development through multiple signaling pathways. ErbB-targeted therapy has shown tremendous potential and prospects in the treatment of HCC.

Conclusions

Through in-depth research and the application of ErbB-targeted therapy, broader avenues will be opened for the treatment of HCC and other tumors, leading to more personalized and precise treatment approaches.

Transcriptomic Characterization of Key Factors and Signaling Pathways for the Regeneration of Partially Hepatectomized Liver in Zebrafish

Liver regeneration induced by partial hepatectomy (PHx) has attracted intensive research interests due to the great significance for liver resection and transplantation. The zebrafish (Danio rerio) is an excellent model to study liver regeneration. In the fish subjected to PHx (the tip of the ventral lobe was resected), the lost liver mass could be fully regenerated in seven days. However, the regulatory mechanisms underlying the liver regeneration remain largely unknown. In this study, gene expression profiles during the regeneration of PHx-treated liver were explored by RNA sequencing (RNA-seq). The genes responsive to the injury of PHx treatment were identified and classified into different clusters based on the expression profiles. Representative gene ontology (GO) enrichments for the early responsive genes included hormone activity, ribosome biogenesis and rRNA processing, etc., while the late responsive genes were enriched in biological processes such as glutathione metabolic process, antioxidant activity and cellular detoxification. The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichments were also identified for the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between the time-series samples and the sham controls. The proteasome was overrepresented by the up-regulated genes at all of the sampling time points. Inhibiting proteasome activity by the application of MG132 to the fish enhanced the expression of Pcna (proliferating cell nuclear antigen), an indicator of hepatocyte proliferation after PHx. Our data provide novel insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying the regeneration of PHx-treated liver.

Novel insights into the multifaceted and tissue-specific roles of the endocytic receptor LRP1

Receptor-mediated endocytosis provides a mechanism for the selective uptake of specific molecules thereby controlling the composition of the extracellular environment and biological processes. The low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1 (LRP1) is a widely expressed endocytic receptor that regulates cellular events by modulating the levels of numerous extracellular molecules via rapid endocytic removal. LRP1 also participates in signalling pathways through this modulation as well as in the interaction with membrane receptors and cytoplasmic adaptor proteins. LRP1 SNPs are associated with several diseases and conditions such as migraines, aortic aneurysms, cardiopulmonary dysfunction, corneal clouding, and bone dysmorphology and mineral density. Studies using Lrp1 KO mice revealed a critical, nonredundant and tissue-specific role of LRP1 in regulating various physiological events. However, exactly how LRP1 functions to regulate so many distinct and specific processes is still not fully clear. Our recent proteomics studies have identified more than 300 secreted proteins that either directly interact with LRP1 or are modulated by LRP1 in various tissues. This review will highlight the remarkable ability of this receptor to regulate secreted molecules in a tissue-specific manner and discuss potential mechanisms underpinning such specificity. Uncovering the depth of these "hidden" specific interactions modulated by LRP1 will provide novel insights into a dynamic and complex extracellular environment that is involved in diverse biological and pathological processes.

Silver nanoparticles induce liver inflammation through ferroptosis in zebrafish

As the most widely employed artificial nanomaterials, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have been implicated in oxidative stress-induced liver injury. Despite these observations, the precise mechanisms underpinning AgNPs-induced hepatotoxicity have yet to be fully elucidated. This study embarked on an intersectional analysis of the GEO dataset (GSE139560), which encompassed murine liver tissues subjected to AgNPs, alongside datasets related to ferroptosis. Through this approach, three pivotal ferroptosis-associated genes (Arrdc3, Txnip, and Egfr) were identified. Further integration with disease model analysis from GSE111407 and GSE183158 unveiled a significant association between AgNPs exposure and alterations in glucose metabolism and insulin signaling pathways, intricately linked with the identified key ferroptosis genes. This correlation fostered the hypothesis that ferroptosis significantly contributed to the hepatotoxicity triggered by AgNPs. Subsequent Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) pointed to the activation of ferroptosis-associated pathways, specifically MAPK and PPAR, under AgNPs exposure. Examination of the miRNA-mRNA interaction network revealed co-regulated upstream miRNAs targeting these pivotal genes, establishing a nexus to ferroptosis and heightened liver susceptibility. Experimental validation employing an adult zebrafish model exposed to AgNPs from 90 to 120 dpf demonstrated elevated levels of Fe2+ and MDA in the zebrafish livers, along with conspicuous mitochondrial morphological alterations, thereby reinforcing the notion that AgNPs precipitate liver dysfunction predominantly through the induction of ferroptosis. These insights collectively underscore the role of ferroptosis in mediating the adverse effects of AgNPs on liver glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity, culminating in liver dysfunction. Overall, these results enhance the understanding of nanomaterial-induced hepatotoxicity and inform strategies to mitigate such health risks.

Integrated machine learning algorithms reveal a bone metastasis-related signature of circulating tumor cells in prostate cancer

Bone metastasis is an essential factor affecting the prognosis of prostate cancer (PCa), and circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are closely related to distant tumor metastasis. Here, the protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks and Cytoscape application were used to identify diagnostic markers for metastatic events in PCa. We screened ten hub genes, eight of which had area under the ROC curve (AUC) values > 0.85. Subsequently, we aim to develop a bone metastasis-related model relying on differentially expressed genes in CTCs for accurate risk stratification. We developed an integrative program based on machine learning algorithm combinations to construct reliable bone metastasis-related genes prognostic index (BMGPI). On the basis of BMGPI, we carefully evaluated the prognostic outcomes, functional status, tumor immune microenvironment, somatic mutation, copy number variation (CNV), response to immunotherapy and drug sensitivity in different subgroups. BMGPI was an independent risk factor for disease-free survival in PCa. The high risk group demonstrated poor survival as well as higher immune scores, higher tumor mutation burden (TMB), more frequent co-occurrence mutation, and worse efficacy of immunotherapy. This study highlights a new prognostic signature, the BMGPI. BMGPI is an independent predictor of prognosis in PCa patients and is closely associated with the immune microenvironment and the efficacy of immunotherapy.

Utility Analyses of AVITI Sequencing Chemistry

Background

DNA sequencing is a critical tool in modern biology. Over the last two decades, it has been revolutionized by the advent of massively parallel sequencing, leading to significant advances in the genome and transcriptome sequencing of various organisms. Nevertheless, challenges with accuracy, lack of competitive options and prohibitive costs associated with high throughput parallel short-read sequencing persist.

Results

Here, we conduct a comparative analysis using matched DNA and RNA short-reads assays between Element Biosciences' AVITI and Illumina's NextSeq 550 chemistries. Similar comparisons were evaluated for synthetic long-read sequencing for RNA and targeted single-cell transcripts between the AVITI and Illumina's NovaSeq 6000. For both DNA and RNA short-read applications, the study found that the AVITI produced significantly higher per sequence quality scores. For PCR-free DNA libraries, we observed an average 89.7% lower experimentally determined error rate when using the AVITI chemistry, compared to the NextSeq 550. For short-read RNA quantification, AVITI platform had an average of 32.5% lower error rate than that for NextSeq 550. With regards to synthetic long-read mRNA and targeted synthetic long read single cell mRNA sequencing, both platforms' respective chemistries performed comparably in quantification of genes and isoforms. The AVITI displayed a marginally lower error rate for long reads, with fewer chemistry-specific errors and a higher mutation detection rate.

Conclusion

These results point to the potential of the AVITI platform as a competitive candidate in high-throughput short read sequencing analyses when juxtaposed with the Illumina NextSeq 550.

The place of beta-adrenergic receptor blockers in the treatment of arterial hypertension: From bench-to-bedside

Arterial hypertension is a multifaceted condition influenced by numerous pathophysiological factors. The key contributors to its pathogenesis encompass an unhealthy lifestyle, dysregulation of the sympathetic nervous system, alterations in the activity of adrenergic receptors, disruptions in sodium metabolism, structural and functional abnormalities in the vascular bed, as well as endothelial dysfunction, low-grade inflammation, oxidative stress etc. Despite extensive research into the mechanisms of arterial hypertension development over the centuries, its pathogenesis remains incompletely understood, and the selection of an effective treatment strategy continues to pose a significant challenge. Arterial hypertension is characterized by a diminished sensitivity of the β-adrenergic system, leading to the utilization of β-adrenergic blockers and other antihypertensive drugs in its treatment. This review delves into the mechanisms of action of beta-adrenergic receptor blockers in the treatment of hypertension and their respective effects.

The effect of vitamin E on ethanol-induced liver damage in rats

Ethanol can have harmful effects on the development of the embryos. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of vitamin E, as an antioxidant, on changes in liver tissue damaged by ethanol in rats. Rats were divided into 11 groups, control, naive, sunflower oil (oil), ethanol, vitamin E (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg), ethanol + vitamin E (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg), and oily ethanol. In the experimental groups, rats received ethanol (v/v 40%) and vitamin E (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg) orally once a day from gestational day 0 to 28 days after delivery. Then, we evaluated the weight of rats and their offspring, the number of offspring, and the level of malondialdehyde (MDA), as an index of lipid peroxidation, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GPX), as antioxidant enzymes, in the liver tissue of the offspring. Vitamin E significantly increases in weight of pregnant mothers and their offspring on the 21st day of pregnancy. The level of MDA in the groups receiving vitamin E was significantly reduced compared to the ethanol group. The activity of GPx and SOD antioxidants enzymes was significantly increased in the offspring. Vitamin E could reduce ethanol-induced liver damage in male offspring by reducing oxidative stress.

TRIM26 deficiency enhancing liver regeneration through macrophage polarization and β-catenin pathway activation

Liver regeneration is a complex process involving the crosstalk between parenchymal and non-parenchymal cells, especially macrophages. However, the underlying mechanisms remain incompletely understood. Here, we identify the E3 ubiquitin ligase TRIM26 as a crucial regulator of liver regeneration. Following partial hepatectomy or acute liver injury induced by carbon tetrachloride, Trim26 knockout mice exhibit enhanced hepatocyte proliferation compared to wild-type controls, while adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated overexpression of Trim26 reverses the promotional effects. Mechanistically, Trim26 deficiency promotes the recruitment of macrophages to the liver and their polarization towards pro-inflammatory M1 phenotype. These M1 macrophages secrete Wnts, including Wnt2, which subsequently stimulate hepatocyte proliferation through the activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling. In hepatocytes, Trim26 knockdown reduces the ubiquitination and degradation of β-catenin, thereby further enhancing Wnt/β-catenin signaling. Pharmacological inhibition of Wnt/β-catenin pathway by ICG-001 or depletion of macrophages by clodronate liposomes diminishes the pro-regenerative effects of Trim26 deficiency. Moreover, bone marrow transplantation experiments provide evidence that Trim26 knockout in myeloid cells alone can also promote liver regeneration, highlighting the critical role of macrophage Trim26 in this process. Taken together, our study uncovers TRIM26 as a negative regulator of liver regeneration by modulating macrophage polarization and Wnt/β-catenin signaling in hepatocytes, providing a potential therapeutic target for promoting liver regeneration in clinical settings.

Hepatocyte-derived extracellular vesicles regulate liver regeneration after partial hepatectomy

While significant progress has been made in understanding different aspects of liver regeneration, the molecular mechanisms responsible for the initiation and termination of cell proliferation in the liver after massive loss or injury of liver tissue remain unknown. The loss of liver mass affects tissue-specific mitogenic inhibitors in the blood, which in turn regulate the proliferation of remaining hepatocytes and liver regeneration. Although well described in a number of publications, which inhibitory substances or "sensor molecules" control the regeneration mechanisms to properly maintain liver size remain unknown. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are nano-sized, membrane-limited structures secreted by cells into the extracellular space. Their proposed role is stable intercellular carriers of proteins and RNAs, mostly micro-RNA, from secreted to recipient cells. Taken up by the recipient cells, EVs can significantly modulate their biological functions. In the present study, using in vivo and in vitro models, we demonstrate that hepatocyte proliferation and liver regeneration are regulated by EVs secreted by hepatocytes into the bloodstream. This regulation is carried out through a negative feedback mechanism, which explains the very precise regeneration of liver tissue after massive damage. We also demonstrate that an essential component of this mechanism is RNA carried by hepatocyte-derived EVs. These findings open up a new and unexplored area of biology regarding the mechanisms involved in the homeostasis regulation of various constantly renewing tissues by maintaining the optimal size and correct ratio between differentiating and proliferating cells.

Hepatitis C virus and hepatocellular carcinoma: carcinogenesis in the era of direct-acting antivirals

Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a major cause of hepatic fibrosis and cirrhosis, with a risk for the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Although highly effective direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) are available, the incidence, morbidity, and mortality of HCV-associated HCC are still high. This article reviews the current knowledge of the mechanisms of HCV-induced carcinogenesis with a special focus on those processes that continue after virus clearance and outlines implications for patient surveillance after DAA treatment.

Electroacupuncture Promotes Liver Regeneration by Activating DMV Acetylcholinergic Neurons-Vagus-Macrophage Axis in 70% Partial Hepatectomy of Mice

Lack of liver regenerative capacity is the primary cause of hepatic failure and even mortality in patients undergoing hepatectomy, with no effective intervention strategies currently available. Therefore, identifying efficacious interventions to enhance liver regeneration is pivotal for optimizing clinical outcomes. Recent studies have demonstrated that vagotomy exerts an inhibitory effect on liver regeneration following partial hepatectomy, thereby substantiating the pivotal role played by the vagus nerve in the process of liver regeneration. In recent years, electroacupuncture (EA) has emerged as a non-invasive technique for stimulating the vagus nerve. However, EA on hepatic regeneration remains uncertain. In this study, a 70% partial hepatectomy (PH) mouse model is utilized to investigate the effects of EA on acute liver regeneration and elucidate its underlying molecular mechanisms. It is observed that EA at ST36 acutely activated cholinergic neurons in the dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus nerve (DMV), resulting in increased release of acetylcholine from hepatic vagal nerve endings and subsequent activation of IL-6 signaling in liver macrophages. Ultimately, these events promoted hepatocyte proliferation and facilitated liver regeneration. These findings provide insights into the fundamental brain-liver axis mechanism through which EA promotes liver regeneration, offering a novel therapeutic approach for post-hepatectomy liver regeneration disorders.

Cancer-associated fibroblasts promote proliferation, angiogenesis, metastasis and immunosuppression in gastric cancer

Despite advances in surgery, radiotherapy and immunotherapy, the mortality rate for gastric cancer remains one of the highest in the world. A large body of evidence has demonstrated that cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), as core members of the stroma, can secrete cytokines, proteins and exosomes to create a tumour microenvironment that is conducive to cancer cell survival. CAFs can also interact with cancer cells to form a complex signalling network, enabling cancer cells to more easily metastasise to other organs and tissues in the body and develop metastatic foci. In this review, we provide an overview of the CAFs concept and activators. We focus on elucidating their effects on immune cells, intratumoural vasculature, extracellular matrix, as well as cancer cell activity, metastatic power and metabolism, and on enhancing the metastatic ability of cancer cells through activation of JAK/STAT, NF/κB and CXCL12/CXCR4. Various therapeutic agents targeting CAFs are also under development and are expected to improve the prognosis of gastric cancer in combination with existing treatment options.

Single and combined toxicity of tadalafil (Cilais) and microplastic in Tilapia fish (Oreochromis niloticus)

The joint impact of tadalafil (Cilais) as a pharmaceutical residue and microplastics on fish is not well comprehended. The current study examined haematological, biochemical, and antioxidant parameters, along with immunohistochemical and histological indications in tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) after being exposed to tadalafil, polyethylene microplastics (PE-MPs), and their mixtures for 15 days. The fish were distributed into 1st group control group (The fish was maintained in untreated water without any supplements); 2nd group exposed to 10 mg/L PE-MPs;3rd group exposed to 20 mg/l tadalafil (Cilais); 4th group exposed to 20 mg/l tadalafil (Cilais) + 10 mg/LPE-MPs (in triplicate). The levels of creatinine, uric acid, glucose, AST, ALT, and albumin in fish treated with tadalafil alone or in combination with PE-MPs were significantly higher than those in the control group. Fish exposed to PE-MPs, tadalafil, and tadalafil plus PE-MPs showed significantly lower levels of RBCs, Hb, Ht, neutrophils, and lymphocytes compared to the control group. Serum levels of total antioxidant capacity and reduced glutathione (GSH) were notably lowered in fish groups subjected to PE-MPs, tadalafil, and tadalafil + PE-MPs combinations in comparison to the control group. Malondialdehyde (MDA) serum levels were notably elevated in fish groups subjected to PE-MPs, tadalafil, and tadalafil + PE-MPs combinations compared to the control group. The most severe impact was observed in the tadalafil + PE-MPs combination group. Interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels were significantly increased in liver tissues following exposure to both tadalafil and microplastics compared to tissues exposed to only one substance or the control group. Changes in the gills, liver, and renal tissues were seen following exposure to PE-MPs, tadalafil, and tadalafil + PE-MPs combination in comparison to the control group of fish. Ultimately, the mixture of tadalafil and PE-MPs resulted in the most detrimental outcomes. Tadalafil and PE-MPs exhibited showed greater adverse effects, likely due to tadalafil being absorbed onto PE-MPs.

Use of Intravoxel Incoherent Motion Diffusion-Weighted Imaging to Assess Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Promoting Liver Regeneration in a Rat Model

RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVES

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have the potential to promote liver regeneration, but the process is unclear. This study aims to explore the therapeutic effects and dynamic processes of MSCs in liver regeneration through intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) imaging.

ANIMAL MODEL

70 adult Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into either the control or MSC group (n = 35/group). All rats received a partial hepatectomy (PH) with the left lateral and middle lobes removed. Each group was divided into seven subgroups: pre-PH and 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, and 14 days post-PH (n = 5 rats/subgroup). Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed before obtaining pathological specimens at each time point on postoperative days 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, and 14. The MRI parameters for the pure diffusion coefficient (D), pseudodiffusion coefficient (D*), and perfusion fraction (PF) were calculated. Correlation analysis was conducted for the biochemical markers (alanine transaminase [ALT], aspartate transaminase [AST], and total bilirubin [TBIL]), histopathological findings (hepatocyte size and Ki-67 proliferation index), liver volume (LV) and liver regeneration rate (LLR).

RESULTS

Liver D, D* , and PF differed significantly between the control and MSC groups at all time points (all P < 0.05). After PH, the D increased, then decreased, and the D* and PF decreased, then increased in both groups. The hepatocyte Ki-67 proliferation index of the MSC group was lower on day 2 post-PH, but higher on days 3 and 5 post-PH than that of the control group. Starting from day 3 post-PH, both the LV and LLR in the MSC group were greater than those in the control group (all P < 0.05). Hepatocytes were larger in the MSC group than in the control group on days 2 and 7 post-PH. In the MSC group, the D, D* , and PF were correlated with the AST levels, Ki-67 index and hepatocyte size (|r|=0.35-0.71; P < 0.05). In the control group, the D and D* were correlated with ALT levels, AST levels, Ki-67 index, LLR, LV, and hepatocyte size (|r|=0.34-0.95; P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Bone marrow MSC therapy can promote hepatocyte hypertrophy and prolong liver proliferation post-PH. IVIM parameters allow non-invasively evaluating the efficacy of MSCs in promoting LR.

Design principles and therapeutic applications of novel synthetic WNT signaling agonists

Wingless-related integration site or Wingless and Int-1 or Wingless-Int (WNT) signaling is crucial for embryonic development, and adult tissue homeostasis and regeneration, through its essential roles in cell fate, patterning, and stem cell regulation. The biophysical characteristics of WNT ligands have hindered efforts to interrogate ligand activity in vivo and prevented their development as therapeutics. Recent breakthroughs have enabled the generation of synthetic WNT signaling molecules that possess characteristics of natural ligands and potently activate the pathway, while also providing distinct advantages for therapeutic development and manufacturing. This review provides a detailed discussion of the protein engineering of these molecular platforms for WNT signaling agonism. We discuss the importance of WNT signaling in several organs and share insights from the initial application of these new classes of molecules in vitro and in vivo. These molecules offer a unique opportunity to enhance our understanding of how WNT signaling agonism promotes tissue repair, enabling targeted development of tailored therapeutics.

Liver surface depressions in the presence of diaphragmatic muscular bands on trans-illumination

Traditional descriptions of liver anatomy refer to a smooth, convex surface contacting the diaphragm. Surface depressions are recognized anatomic variants. There are many theories to explain the cause of the depressions. We discuss the theory that these are caused by hypertrophic muscular bands in the diaphragm.

Loss of FAM172A gene prompts cell proliferation in liver regeneration

The present study was designed to explore the function of FAM172A in liver regeneration and HCC. Mice were sacrificed after 70% partial hepatectomy (PH). RNA sequencing was performed on primary hepatocytes of WT and FAM172A-/- mice. We used HepG2 cells to construct cell lines with stably knockdown and overexpression of FAM172A. The expression of FAM172A in liver tissues was investigated by immunohistochemical staining, and we also used public database to perform survival analysis and prognostic model in HCC. Compared with WT mice after PH, normalized liver weight/body weight (LW/BW) ratio and the proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) protein level of FAM172A-/- mice elevated. The DEGs were mainly enriched in inflammatory response, tumor necrosis factor production, and wound healing. FAM172A knockdown enhanced the NFκB-TNFα and pERK-YAP1-Cyclin D1 axis. FAM172A peptide inhibited proliferation of primary hepatocytes. Moreover, the low expression of FAM172A in human HCC tissues implies a lower likelihood of survival and a valid diagnostic marker for HCC. Loss of FAM172A gene promotes cell proliferation by pERK-YAP1-Cyclin D1 and pNFκB-TNFα pathways during liver regeneration after PH. FAM172A may be a favorable diagnosis marker of HCC.

Cellular Senescence in Acute Liver Injury: What Happens to the Young Liver?

Cellular senescence, characterized by irreversible cell cycle arrest, not only exists in age-related physiological states, but has been found to exist in various diseases. It plays a crucial role in both physiological and pathological processes and has become a trending topic in global research in recent years. Acute liver injury (ALI) has a high incidence worldwide, and recent studies have shown that hepatic senescence can be induced following ALI. Therefore, we reviewed the significance of cellular senescence in ALI. To minimize the potential confounding effects of aging on cellular senescence and ALI outcomes, we selected studies involving young individuals to identify the characteristics of senescent cells, the value of cellular senescence in liver repair, its regulation mechanisms in ALI, its potential as a biomarker for ALI, the prospect of treatment, and future research directions.

The double-edged effects of IL-6 in liver regeneration, aging, inflammation, and diseases

Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is a pleiotropic cytokine and exerts its complex biological functions mainly through three different signal modes, called cis-, trans-, and cluster signaling. When IL-6 binds to its membrane or soluble receptors, the co-receptor gp130 is activated to initiate downstream signaling and induce the expression of target genes. In the liver, IL-6 can perform its anti-inflammatory activities to promote hepatocyte reprogramming and liver regeneration. On the contrary, IL-6 also exerts the pro-inflammatory functions to induce liver aging, fibrosis, steatosis, and carcinogenesis. However, understanding the roles and underlying mechanisms of IL-6 in liver physiological and pathological processes is still an ongoing process. So far, therapeutic agents against IL‑6, IL‑6 receptor (IL‑6R), IL-6-sIL-6R complex, or IL-6 downstream signal transducers have been developed, and determined to be effective in the intervention of inflammatory diseases and cancers. In this review, we summarized and highlighted the understanding of the double-edged effects of IL-6 in liver homeostasis, aging, inflammation, and chronic diseases, for better shifting the "negative" functions of IL-6 to the "beneficial" actions, and further discussed the potential therapeutic effects of targeting IL-6 signaling in the clinics.

PFKFB3-mediated glycolysis in hepatic stellate cells promotes liver regeneration

Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) perform a significant function in liver regeneration (LR) by becoming active. We propose to investigate if activated HSCs enhance glycolysis via PFKFB3, an essential glycolytic regulator, and whether targeting this pathway could be beneficial for LR. The liver and isolated HSCs of mice subjected to 2/3 partial hepatectomy (PHx) exhibited a significant rise in PFKFB3 expression, as indicated by quantitative RT-PCR analyses and Western blotting. Also, the primary HSCs of mice subjected to PHx have a significant elevation of the glycolysis level. Knocking down PFKFB3 significantly diminished the enhancement of glycolysis by PDGF in human LX2 cells. The hepatocyte proliferation in mice treated with PHx was almost completely prevented when the PFKFB3 inhibitor 3PO was administered, emerging that PFKFB3 is essential in LR. Furthermore, there was a decline in mRNA expression of immediate early genes and proinflammatory cytokines. In terms of mechanism, both the p38 MAP kinase and ERK1/2 phosphorylation in LO2 cells and LO2 proliferation were significantly reduced by the conditioned medium (CM) obtained from LX2 cells with either PFKFB3 knockdown or inhibition. Compared to the control group, isolated hepatocytes from 3PO-treated mice showed decreased p38 MAP kinase and ERK1/2 phosphorylation and proliferation. Thus, LR after PHx involves the activation of PFKFB3 in HSCs, which enhances glycolysis and promotes lactate production, thereby facilitating hepatocyte proliferation via the p38/ERK MAPK signaling pathway.

The rapidly changing field of predictive biomarkers of non-small cell lung cancer

Lung cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide in both men and women, however mortality in the US and EU are recently declining in parallel with the gradual cut of smoking prevalence. Consequently, the relative frequency of adenocarcinoma increased while that of squamous and small cell carcinomas declined. During the last two decades a plethora of targeted drug therapies have appeared for the treatment of metastasizing non-small cell lung carcinomas (NSCLC). Personalized oncology aims to precisely match patients to treatments with the highest potential of success. Extensive research is done to introduce biomarkers which can predict the effectiveness of a specific targeted therapeutic approach. The EGFR signaling pathway includes several sufficient targets for the treatment of human cancers including NSCLC. Lung adenocarcinoma may harbor both activating and resistance mutations of the EGFR gene, and further, mutations of KRAS and BRAF oncogenes. Less frequent but targetable genetic alterations include ALK, ROS1, RET gene rearrangements, and various alterations of MET proto-oncogene. In addition, the importance of anti-tumor immunity and of tumor microenvironment has become evident recently. Accumulation of mutations generally trigger tumor specific immune defense, but immune protection may be upregulated as an aggressive feature. The blockade of immune checkpoints results in potential reactivation of tumor cell killing and induces significant tumor regression in various tumor types, such as lung carcinoma. Therapeutic responses to anti PD1-PD-L1 treatment may correlate with the expression of PD-L1 by tumor cells. Due to the wide range of diagnostic and predictive features in lung cancer a plenty of tests are required from a single small biopsy or cytology specimen, which is challenged by major issues of sample quantity and quality. Thus, the efficacy of biomarker testing should be warranted by standardized policy and optimal material usage. In this review we aim to discuss major targeted therapy-related biomarkers in NSCLC and testing possibilities comprehensively.

Gut Microbiota Affects Mouse Pregnane X Receptor Agonist Pregnenolone 16α-Carbonitrile-Induced Hepatomegaly by Regulating Pregnane X Receptor and Yes-Associated Protein Activation

Pregnane X receptor (PXR) is essential in the regulation of liver homeostasis, and the gut microbiota is closely linked to liver physiologic and pathologic status. We previously found that activation of PXR significantly promotes liver enlargement through interaction with yes-associated protein (YAP). However, whether gut microbiota contributes to PXR-induced hepatomegaly and the involved mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, C57BL/6 mice were administered the mouse-specific agonist pregnenolone 16α-carbonitrile (PCN) for 5 days. Depletion of gut microbiota was achieved using broad-spectrum antibiotics (ABX) and fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) was performed to restore the gut microbia. The composition of gut microbiota was analyzed by 16S rRNA sequencing, while the expression of PXR, YAP, and their downstream target genes and proteins were assessed. The results indicated that PCN treatment altered the composition and abundance of specific bacterial taxa. Furthermore, depletion of gut microbiota using ABX significantly attenuated PCN-induced hepatomegaly. FMT experiments further demonstrated that the fecal microbiota from PCN-treated mice could induce liver enlargement. Mechanistic studies revealed that ABX treatment impeded the PXR and YAP activation induced by PCN, as evidenced by decreased expression of PXR, YAP, and their downstream targets. Moreover, alterations in PXR and YAP activation were likely contributing to hepatomegaly in recipient mice following FMT from PCN-treated mice. Collectively, the current study demonstrated that gut microbiota is involved in PCN-induced hepatomegaly via regulating PXR and YAP activation, providing potential novel insights into the involvement of gut microbiota in PXR-mediated hepatomegaly. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: This work describes that the composition of gut microbiota is altered in mouse pregnane X receptor (PXR) agonist pregnenolone 16α-carbonitrile (PCN)-induced hepatomegaly. Treatment with an antibiotic cocktail depletes the intestinal microbiota, leading to the impairment of liver enlargement caused by PCN. Additionally, fecal microbiota transplantation from PCN-treated mice induces liver enlargement. Further study revealed that gut microbiota is involved in hepatomegaly via regulating PXR and yes-associated protein activation.

4-tert-Butylphenol impairs the liver by inducing excess liver lipid accumulation via disrupting the lipid metabolism pathway in zebrafish

Endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) can disrupt normal endocrine function by interfering with the synthesis and release of hormones, causing adverse reactions to development, immunity, nerves, and reproduction. 4-tert-Butylphenol (4-t-BP) is disruptive to early zebrafish development, but its effects on zebrafish liver are unknown. In this study, the adverse effects of 4-t-BP on the liver were investigated using zebrafish as a model organism. 4-t-BP inhibited liver development in zebrafish embryos and induced liver damage in adult zebrafish. Even if F1 was not directly exposed to 4-t-BP, its growth and development were inhibited. 4-t-BP can lead to an increase in lipid accumulation, total cholesterol and triglycerides contents, and the activities of alanine transaminase and aspartate aminotransferase in zebrafish embryos and adult zebrafish livers, and also cause an acceleration of glucose metabolism in zebrafish embryos. In addition, qRT-PCR showed that 4-t-BP induced the changes in the expressions of liver development-, steroid and unsaturated fatty acid biosynthesis-, and glycerolipid and arachidonic acid metabolism-related genes in zebrafish embryos and inflammatory factors-, antioxidant enzymes- and lipid metabolism-related genes in adult zebrafish livers. Transcriptome sequencing of embryos showed that 4-t-BP altered the expressions of lipid metabolism pathways such as steroid and unsaturated fatty acid biosynthesis, glycerolipid, and arachidonic acid metabolism pathways. Therefore, 4-t-BP may be external stimuli that cause oxidative stress, inflammation, and lipid accumulation in zebrafish liver, resulting in tissue damage and dysfunction in zebrafish liver.

Liver-specific Mettl14 deletion induces nuclear heterotypia and dysregulates RNA export machinery

Modification of RNA with N6-methyladenosine (m6A) has gained attention in recent years as a general mechanism of gene regulation. In the liver, m6A, along with its associated machinery, has been studied as a potential biomarker of disease and cancer, with impacts on metabolism, cell cycle regulation, and pro-cancer state signaling. However these observational data have yet to be causally examined in vivo. For example, neither perturbation of the key m6A writers Mettl3 and Mettl14, nor the m6A readers Ythdf1 and Ythdf2 have been thoroughly mechanistically characterized in vivo as they have been in vitro. To understand the functions of these machineries, we developed mouse models and found that deleting Mettl14 led to progressive liver injury characterized by nuclear heterotypia, with changes in mRNA splicing, processing and export leading to increases in mRNA surveillance and recycling.

VEGF-FGF Signaling Activates Quiescent CD63+ Liver Stem Cells to Proliferate and Differentiate

Understanding the liver stem cells (LSCs) holds great promise for new insights into liver diseases and liver regeneration. However, the heterogenicity and plasticity of liver cells have made it controversial. Here, by employing single-cell RNA-sequencing technology, transcriptome features of Krt19+ bile duct lineage cells isolated from Krt19CreERT; Rosa26R-GFP reporter mouse livers are examined. Distinct biliary epithelial cells which include adult LSCs, as well as their downstream hepatocytes and cholangiocytes are identified. Importantly, a novel cell surface LSCs marker, CD63, as well as CD56, which distinguished active and quiescent LSCs are discovered. Cell expansion and bi-potential differentiation in culture demonstrate the stemness ability of CD63+ cells in vitro. Transplantation and lineage tracing of CD63+ cells confirm their contribution to liver cell mass in vivo upon injury. Moreover, CD63+CD56+ cells are proved to be activated LSCs with vigorous proliferation ability. Further studies confirm that CD63+CD56- quiescent LSCs express VEGFR2 and FGFR1, and they can be activated to proliferation and differentiation through combination of growth factors: VEGF-A and bFGF. These findings define an authentic adult liver stem cells compartment, make a further understanding of fate regulation on LSCs, and highlight its contribution to liver during pathophysiologic processes.

Development of a hepatic cryoinjury model to study liver regeneration

The liver is a remarkable organ that can regenerate in response to injury. Depending on the extent of injury, the liver can undergo compensatory hyperplasia or fibrosis. Despite decades of research, the molecular mechanisms underlying these processes are poorly understood. Here, we developed a new model to study liver regeneration based on cryoinjury. To visualise liver regeneration at cellular resolution, we adapted the CUBIC tissue-clearing approach. Hepatic cryoinjury induced a localised necrotic and apoptotic lesion characterised by inflammation and infiltration of innate immune cells. Following this initial phase, we observed fibrosis, which resolved as regeneration re-established homeostasis in 30 days. Importantly, this approach enables the comparison of healthy and injured parenchyma with an individual animal, providing unique advantages to previous models. In summary, the hepatic cryoinjury model provides a fast and reproducible method for studying the cellular and molecular pathways underpinning fibrosis and liver regeneration.

Droplet Microfluidics Powered Hydrogel Microparticles for Stem Cell-Mediated Biomedical Applications

Stem cell-related therapeutic technologies have garnered significant attention of the research community for their multi-faceted applications. To promote the therapeutic effects of stem cells, the strategies for cell microencapsulation in hydrogel microparticles have been widely explored, as the hydrogel microparticles have the potential to facilitate oxygen diffusion and nutrient transport alongside their ability to promote crucial cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions. Despite their significant promise, there is an acute shortage of automated, standardized, and reproducible platforms to further stem cell-related research. Microfluidics offers an intriguing platform to produce stem cell-laden hydrogel microparticles (SCHMs) owing to its ability to manipulate the fluids at the micrometer scale as well as precisely control the structure and composition of microparticles. In this review, the typical biomaterials and crosslinking methods for microfluidic encapsulation of stem cells as well as the progress in droplet-based microfluidics for the fabrication of SCHMs are outlined. Moreover, the important biomedical applications of SCHMs are highlighted, including regenerative medicine, tissue engineering, scale-up production of stem cells, and microenvironmental simulation for fundamental cell studies. Overall, microfluidics holds tremendous potential for enabling the production of diverse hydrogel microparticles and is worthy for various stem cell-related biomedical applications.

Establishment of homotrimer collagen type I signature and its association with clinical manifestation and tertiary lymphoid structures formation in liver cancer

Background

collagen type I is a fundamental composition of extracellular matrix. Typically it exists in the form of a heterotrimer, consisting of two α1 chains encoded by COL1A1 and one α2 chain encoded by COL1A2. However, in cancer a homotrimeric form of collagen type I comprises three α1 chains encoded by COL1A1 was founded. There is still a lack of transcriptional and histologic methods for detecting homotrimeric collagen type I. Furthermore, a comprehensive analysis of the pan-cancer distribution pattern and clinical relevance of homotrimeric collagen type I is conspicuously absent.

Method

Using transcriptional and immunoflourance method, we established homocol signature, which is able to transcriptionally and histologically detect homotrimeric collagen type I. We investigated the diagnostic and prognostic potential of homocol as a novel cancer biomarker in a pan-cancer cohort. Furthermore, we assessed its association with clinical manifestations in a liver cancer cohort undergoing treatment at our institute.

Result

Homotrimer Collagen Type I is predominantly expressed by cancer cells and is linked to several critical cancer hallmarks, particularly inflammatory response and proliferation. Survival analyses have indicated that a high Homocol expression is correlated with poor outcomes in most types of cancer studied. In terms of cancer detection, Homocol demonstrated strong performance in Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) analysis, with an Area Under Curve (AUC) of 0.83 for pan-cancer detection and between 0.72 and 0.99 for individual cancers.In cohorts undergoing PD1 treatment, we noted a higher presence of Homocol in the response group. In a Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) clinical set, high Homocol expression was associated with an increased formation of intra-tumor tertiary lymphoid structures (TLS), larger tumor sizes, more advanced Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) stages, higher microvascular invasion (MVI) grades, absence of a capsule, and an enriched para-tumor collagen presence.

Conclusion

our research has led to the development of a novel gene signature that facilitates the detection of Homotrimer Collagen Type I. This may greatly assist efforts in cancer detection, prognosis, treatment response prediction, and further research into Homotrimer Collagen Type I.

Exosomes Derived from Adipose Mesenchymal Stem Cells Promote Regeneration of Injured Liver in Minipigs

Hepatic ischemia/reperfusion injury (IRI) is an important factor affecting liver regeneration and functional recovery postoperatively. Many studies have suggested that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) contribute to hepatic tissue repair and functional recovery through paracrine mechanisms mediated by exosomes. Minipigs exhibit much more similar characteristics of the liver to those of humans than rodents. This study aimed to explore whether exosomes from adipose-derived MSCs (ADSCs-exo) could actively promote liver regeneration after hepatectomy combined with HIRI in minipigs and the role they play in the cell proliferation process. This study also compared the effects and differences in the role of ADSCs and ADSCs-exo in the inflammatory response and liver regeneration. The results showed that ADSCs-exo suppressed histopathological changes and reduced inflammatory infiltration in the liver; significantly decreased levels of ALT, TBIL, HA, and the pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-6, and CRP; increased levels of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 and the pro-regeneration factors Ki67, PCNA, CyclinD1, HGF, STAT3, VEGF, ANG1, ANG2; and decreased levels of the anti-regeneration factors SOCS3 and TGF-β. These indicators above showed similar changes with the ADSCs intervention group. Indicating that ADSCs-exo can exert the same role as ADSCs in regulating inflammatory responses and promoting liver regeneration. Our findings provide experimental evidence for the possibility that ADSCs-exo could be considered a safe and effective cell-free therapy to promote regeneration of injured livers.