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Basha S, Jin-Smith B, Sun C, Pi L. The SLIT/ROBO Pathway in Liver Fibrosis and Cancer. Biomolecules 2023; 13:biom13050785. [PMID: 37238655 DOI: 10.3390/biom13050785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a common outcome of most chronic liver insults/injuries that can develop into an irreversible process of cirrhosis and, eventually, liver cancer. In recent years, there has been significant progress in basic and clinical research on liver cancer, leading to the identification of various signaling pathways involved in tumorigenesis and disease progression. Slit glycoprotein (SLIT)1, SLIT2, and SLIT3 are secreted members of a protein family that accelerate positional interactions between cells and their environment during development. These proteins signal through Roundabout receptor (ROBO) receptors (ROBO1, ROBO2, ROBO3, and ROBO4) to achieve their cellular effects. The SLIT and ROBO signaling pathway acts as a neural targeting factor regulating axon guidance, neuronal migration, and axonal remnants in the nervous system. Recent findings suggest that various tumor cells differ in SLIT/ROBO signaling levels and show varying degrees of expression patterns during tumor angiogenesis, cell invasion, metastasis, and infiltration. Emerging roles of the SLIT and ROBO axon-guidance molecules have been discovered in liver fibrosis and cancer development. Herein, we examined the expression patterns of SLIT and ROBO proteins in normal adult livers and two types of liver cancers: hepatocellular carcinoma and cholangiocarcinoma. This review also summarizes the potential therapeutics of this pathway for anti-fibrosis and anti-cancer drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sreenivasulu Basha
- Department of Pathology, Tulane University School of Medicine, 1430 Tulane Ave, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - Brady Jin-Smith
- Department of Pathology, Tulane University School of Medicine, 1430 Tulane Ave, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - Chunbao Sun
- Department of Pathology, Tulane University School of Medicine, 1430 Tulane Ave, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - Liya Pi
- Department of Pathology, Tulane University School of Medicine, 1430 Tulane Ave, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
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Li BL, Liang HJ, Li QR, Wang Q, Ao ZY, Fan YW, Zhang WJ, Lian X, Chen JY, Yuan J, Wu JW. Euryachincoside, a Novel Phenolic Glycoside with Anti-Hepatic Fibrosis Activity from Eurya chinensis. PLANTA MEDICA 2023; 89:516-525. [PMID: 35439837 DOI: 10.1055/a-1828-2671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Eurya chinensis has been recorded as a folk medicine traditionally used for treatment of a variety of symptoms. However, the phytochemical and pharmacological investigations of this plant are still scarce. A novel phenolic glycoside named Euryachincoside (ECS) was isolated by chromatographic separation from E. chinensis, and its chemical structure was identified by analysis of HRMS and NMR data. Its anti-hepatic fibrosis effects were evaluated in both HSC-T6 (rat hepatic stellate cells) and carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced mice with Silybin (SLB) as the positive control. In an in vitro study, ECS showed little cytotoxicity and inhibited transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β)-induced Collagen I (Col1) along with alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) expressions in HSC-T6. An in vivo study suggested ECS significantly ameliorated hepatic injury, secretions of inflammatory cytokines, and collagen depositions. Moreover, ECS markedly mediated Smad2/3, nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling pathways both in vitro and vivo. These present findings confirmed that ECS is a novel phenolic glycoside from E. chinensis with promising curative effects on hepatic fibrosis, and its mechanisms may include decreasing extracellular matrix accumulation, reducing inflammation and attenuating free radicals via Smad2/3, NF-κB and Nrf2 signaling pathways, which may shed light on the exploration of more effective phenolic glycoside-based anti-fibrotic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bai-Lin Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Hui-Jun Liang
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Qian-Ran Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Qian Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Zhuo-Yi Ao
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Yu-Wen Fan
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Wei-Jie Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Xin Lian
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Jia-Yan Chen
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Jie Yuan
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Jie-Wei Wu
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, P. R. China
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Shi B, Qian J, Miao H, Zhang S, Hu Y, Liu P, Xu L. Mulberroside A ameliorates CCl4‐induced liver fibrosis in mice via inhibiting pro‐inflammatory response. Food Sci Nutr 2023. [DOI: 10.1002/fsn3.3333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
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Lyu SY, Xiao W, Cui GZ, Yu C, Liu H, Lyu M, Kuang QY, Xiao EH, Luo YH. Role and mechanism of DNA methylation and its inhibitors in hepatic fibrosis. Front Genet 2023; 14:1124330. [PMID: 37056286 PMCID: PMC10086238 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2023.1124330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a repair response to injury caused by various chronic stimuli that continually act on the liver. Among them, the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and their transformation into a myofibroblast phenotype is a key event leading to liver fibrosis, however the mechanism has not yet been elucidated. The molecular basis of HSC activation involves changes in the regulation of gene expression without changes in the genome sequence, namely, via epigenetic regulation. DNA methylation is a key focus of epigenetic research, as it affects the expression of fibrosis-related, metabolism-related, and tumor suppressor genes. Increasing studies have shown that DNA methylation is closely related to several physiological and pathological processes including HSC activation and liver fibrosis. This review aimed to discuss the mechanism of DNA methylation in the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis, explore DNA methylation inhibitors as potential therapies for liver fibrosis, and provide new insights on the prevention and clinical treatment of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shi-Yi Lyu
- Department of Radiology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central-South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Wang Xiao
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central-South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Guang-Zu Cui
- XiangYa School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Cheng Yu
- Department of Radiology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central-South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Huan Liu
- Department of Radiology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central-South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Min Lyu
- Department of Radiology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central-South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Qian-Ya Kuang
- Department of Radiology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central-South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - En-Hua Xiao
- Department of Radiology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central-South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yong-Heng Luo
- Department of Radiology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central-South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
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Xing Y, Zhong W, Peng D, Han Z, Zeng H, Wang Y, Feng L, Huang J, Xu L, Chen M, Zhou D, Jiang K, Deng X, Zhou H, Tong G. Chinese Herbal Formula Ruangan Granule Enhances the Efficacy of Entecavir to Reverse Advanced Liver Fibrosis/Early Cirrhosis in Patients with Chronic HBV Infection: A Multicenter, Randomized Clinical Trial. Pharmacol Res 2023; 190:106737. [PMID: 36940891 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2023.106737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nucleotide analogs treatment can reverse liver fibrosis in chronic hepatitis B (CHB). However, it has limited effect on fibrosis resolution in patients with CHB, particularly in preventing progression to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Ruangan granule (RG), a Chinese herbal formula, has proven to produce a therapeutic effect against liver fibrosis in animal experiment. Thus, we aimed to evaluate the effect of our Chinese herbal formula (RG) combined with entecavir (ETV) to reverse advanced liver fibrosis/early cirrhosis from CHB. METHODS A total of 240 CHB patients with histologically confirmed advanced liver fibrosis/early cirrhosis from 12 centers were randomly and blindly allocated to consume either ETV (0.5mg/day) plus RG (2 times/day) or control (ETV) for 48 weeks (wk) treatment. Changes in histopathology, serology and imageology were observed. Liver fibrosis reversion, defined as a reduction in the Knodell HAI score by ≥2 points and Ishak score by ≥1 grade, was assessed. RESULTS The rate of fibrosis regression and inflammation remission after 48 wk of treatment in histopathology was significantly higher in the ETV + RG group (38.73% vs. 23.94%, P=0.031). The ultrasonic semiquantitative scores decreased by ≥2 points and were 41 (28.87%) and 15 (21.13%) in the ETV+RG and ETV groups, respectively (P=0.026). The ETV+RG group had a significantly lower Fibrosis-4 score (FIB-4) index (P=0.028). There was a significant difference between the ETV+RG and ETV groups in the liver function normalization rate (P <0.01). Moreover, ETV plus RG combination treatment further reduced the risk of HCC in median 55-month follow-up (P <0.01). CONCLUSIONS This study illustrates that the Chinese herbal formula RG with ETV can improve advanced liver fibrosis/early cirrhosis regression in patients with CHB, further reducing the risk of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yufeng Xing
- Department of Hepatology, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Weichao Zhong
- Department of Hepatology, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Deti Peng
- Department of Hepatology, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Zhiyi Han
- Department of Hepatology, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Hua Zeng
- Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yanqing Wang
- Department of Hepatology, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Lian Feng
- The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Jinzhen Huang
- The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Linyi Xu
- The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Mingtai Chen
- The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Daqiao Zhou
- Department of Hepatology, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Kaiping Jiang
- Department of Hepatology, Foshan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Foshan, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Xin Deng
- The First Department of Hepatology, The Third People's Hospital of Shenzhen, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Hua Zhou
- Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Dampness Syndrome of Chinese Medicine, Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Joint Lab on Chinese Medicine and Immune Disease Research, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China.
| | - Guangdong Tong
- Department of Hepatology, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China.
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Chen KQ, Ke BY, Cheng L, Yu XQ, Wang ZB, Wang SZ. Research and progress of inflammasomes in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 118:110013. [PMID: 36931172 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.110013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023]
Abstract
With the development of the social economy, unhealthy living habits and eating styles are gradually affecting people's health in recent years. As a chronic liver disease, NAFLD is deeply affected by unhealthy living habits and eating styles and has gradually become an increasingly serious public health problem. As a protein complex in clinical research, the inflammasomes play a crucial role in the development of NAFLD, atherosclerosis, and other diseases. This paper reviews the types, composition, characteristics of inflammasomes, and molecular mechanism of the inflammasome in NAFLD. Meanwhile, the paper reviews the drugs and non-drugs that target NLRP3 inflammasome in the treatment of NAFLD in the past decades. we also analyzed and summarized the related experimental models, mechanisms, and results of NAFLD. Although current therapeutic strategies for NAFLD are not effective, we expect that we will be able to find an appropriate treatment to address this problem in the future with further research on inflammasome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke-Qian Chen
- Institute of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, China; Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, China
| | - Bo-Yi Ke
- Institute of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, China; Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, China
| | - Lu Cheng
- Institute of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, China; Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, China
| | - Xiao-Qing Yu
- Institute of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, China; Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, China
| | - Zong-Bao Wang
- Institute of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, China; Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, China
| | - Shu-Zhi Wang
- Institute of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, China; Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, China.
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107
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Bao L, Chu Y, Kang H. SNAI1-activated long non-coding RNA LINC01711 promotes hepatic fibrosis cell proliferation and migration by regulating XYLT1. Genomics 2023; 115:110597. [PMID: 36871637 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygeno.2023.110597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is the result of the accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) that cannot be cleared. Bioinformatic analysis showed that LINC01711 was significantly overexpressed in hepatic fibrosis. The regulatory mechanism of LINC01711 was clarified and confirmed the transcription factors associated with LINC01711. Functionally, LINC01711 promoted LX-2 cell proliferation and migration, indicating that it exerts effects promoting the progression of hepatic fibrosis. Mechanistically, LINC01711 increased the expression of xylosyltransferase 1 (XYLT1), which is an important protein for constructing the ECM. We also confirmed that SNAI1 activated LINC01711 transcription. Taking these findings together, LINC01711 was induced by SNAI1 and promoted the proliferation and migration of LX-2 cells via XYLT1. This study will help to understand the function of LINC01711 and its regulatory mechanism in hepatic fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linan Bao
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110001, China
| | - Yang Chu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110001, China
| | - Hui Kang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110001, China.
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108
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W Hawas U, El-Ansari MA, Osman AF, Galal AF, Abou El-Kassem LT. Flavonoid constituents and protective efficacy of Citrus reticulate (Blanco) leaves ethanolic extract on thioacetamide-induced liver injury rats. Biomarkers 2023; 28:160-167. [PMID: 36420657 DOI: 10.1080/1354750x.2022.2151645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Context: Oxidative stress leads to deleterious processes in the liver that resulted in liver diseases.Objective: To evaluate antioxidant activity and hepatoprotective potential of ethanolic leaves extract of Citrus reticulate against hepatic dysfunction induced by thioacetamide (TAA).Materials and Methods: Flavonoid constituents were isolated from the ethanol extract by chromatographic techniques and identified by the spectroscopic analyses. Antioxidant activity was determined using DPPH assay. Hepatotoxicity was induced in rats via intraperitoneal injection of TAA and the ethanol extract was orally administrated at a dose of 100 mg/kg/day for four weeks. Serum biomarkers, hepatic antioxidant enzymes, tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), hepatic hydroxyproline levels, and histopathology were examined.Results: Ten known flavonoids were identified, among of them, 6,3`-dimethoxyluteolin and 8,3`-dimethoxyluteolin possessed the highest antioxidant activity. The substantially elevated serum enzymatic levels of ALT, ALP, and bilirubin were found to be restored towards normalisation significantly by the plant extract. Furthermore, the markers including MDA, GSH, SOD, NO, and protein carbonyl which were close to oxidative damage, were restored. Meanwhile, the extract treatment decreased TNF-α level and also was able to reverse the induced fibrosis by significantly reducing the hydroxyproline content. Moreover, histopathological studies further substantiate the protective effect of the extract.Conclusion: C. reticulate leaves extract is a rich source of phytochemicals with in vitro and in vivo protective effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Usama W Hawas
- Marine Chemistry Department, Faculty of Marine Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.,Phytochemistry and Plant Systematic Department, National Research Centre, Dokki, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mohamed A El-Ansari
- Phytochemistry and Plant Systematic Department, National Research Centre, Dokki, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Abeer F Osman
- Chemistry of Natural compounds Department, National Research Centre, Dokki, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Asmaa F Galal
- Narcotics, Ergogenics and Poisons Department, National Research Centre, Dokki, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Lamia T Abou El-Kassem
- Chemistry Department, Faculty of Sciences & Arts, King Abdulaziz University, Rabigh, Saudi Arabia.,Pharmacognosy Department, National Research Centre, Dokki, Cairo, Egypt
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Wang Y, Wang P, Yu Y, Huang E, Yao Y, Guo D, Peng H, Tian B, Zheng Q, Jia M, Wang J, Wu X, Cheng J, Liu H, Wang QK, Xu C. Hepatocyte Ninjurin2 promotes hepatic stellate cell activation and liver fibrosis through the IGF1R/EGR1/PDGF-BB signaling pathway. Metabolism 2023; 140:155380. [PMID: 36549436 DOI: 10.1016/j.metabol.2022.155380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Revised: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Liver fibrogenesis is orchestrated by the paracrine signaling interaction between several resident cell types regulating the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). However, the molecular mechanisms underlying paracrine regulation are largely unknown. The aim of this study is to elucidate the role of Ninjurin2 in the crosstalk between hepatocytes and HSCs and better understand the implications of Ninjurin2 in liver fibrosis. METHODS Ninj2 knockout mice (Ninj2-/-) and hepatocyte-specific Ninj2 overexpression mice (Ninj2Hep-tg) were constructed and followed by the induction of liver fibrosis using methionine- and choline-deficient (MCD) diet. The relationship between Ninjurin2 and liver fibrosis phenotype was evaluated in vivo by measurement of fibrotic markers and related genes. We used an in vitro transwell cell co-culture model to examine the impact of Ninjurin2 in hepatocytes on the crosstalk to HSCs. The interaction of Ninjurin2 and IGF1R and the regulation of PI3K-AKT-EGR1 were analyzed in vivo and in vitro. Finally, an inhibitory Ninjurin2 peptide was injected intravenously via the tail vein to investigate whether inhibiting of Ninjurin2 cascade can attenuate MCD diet-induced liver fibrosis in mice. RESULTS We found that hepatic Ninjurin2 expression was significantly increased in fibrotic human liver and MCD diet-induced liver injury mouse models. In the mouse model, hepatocyte-specific overexpression of Ninj2 exacerbates MCD-induced liver fibrosis, while global Ninj2 knockout reverses the phenotype. To mimic hepatocyte-HSC crosstalk during liver fibrosis, we used co-culture systems containing hepatocytes and HSCs and determined that Ninjurin2 overexpression in hepatocytes directly activates HSCs in vitro. Mechanistically, Ninjurin2 directly interacts with insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF1R) and increases the hepatocyte secretion of the fibrogenic cytokine, platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB) through IGF1R-PI3K-AKT-EGR1 cascade. Inhibition of PDGFRB signaling in HSCs can abolish the profibrogenic effect of Ninjurin2. In addition, we demonstrated that a specific inhibitory Ninjurin2 peptide containing an N-terminal adhesion motif mitigates liver fibrosis and improves hepatic function in the mouse models by negatively regulating the sensitivity of IGF1R to IGF1 in hepatocytes. CONCLUSION Hepatic Ninjurin2 plays a key role in liver fibrosis through paracrine regulation of PDGF-BB/PDGFRB signaling in HSCs, and the results suggesting Ninjurin2 may be a potential therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifan Wang
- Center for Human Genome Research, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, China
| | - Pengyun Wang
- Liyuan Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430077, China
| | - Yubing Yu
- Center for Human Genome Research, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, China
| | - Erwen Huang
- Faculty of Forensic Medicine, Guangdong Province Translational Forensic Medicine Engineering Technology Research Center, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Yufeng Yao
- Center for Human Genome Research, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, China
| | - Di Guo
- Center for Human Genome Research, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, China
| | - Huixin Peng
- Center for Human Genome Research, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, China
| | - Beijia Tian
- Center for Human Genome Research, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, China
| | - Qian Zheng
- Center for Human Genome Research, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, China
| | - Mengru Jia
- Center for Human Genome Research, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Center for Human Genome Research, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, China
| | - Xinna Wu
- Center for Human Genome Research, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, China
| | - Jianding Cheng
- Faculty of Forensic Medicine, Guangdong Province Translational Forensic Medicine Engineering Technology Research Center, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Huiying Liu
- College of Pulmonary and Critical Medicine, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Qing K Wang
- Center for Human Genome Research, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, China.
| | - Chengqi Xu
- Center for Human Genome Research, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, China.
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Bastos MS, Saalfeld RM, Costa BP, Garcia MC, Antunes KH, Rodrigues KF, Melo D, Santarém ER, de Oliveira JR. Moquiniastrum polymorphum subsp. polymorphum extract inhibits the proliferation of an activated hepatic stellate cell line (GRX) by regulating the p27 pathway to generate cell cycle arrest. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 303:116056. [PMID: 36535332 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2022.116056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE The chosen plant and its extracts have been an alternative in the treatment of several inflammatory and oxidant diseases, and is therefore a viable option for the treatment of hepatic fibrosis. AIM OF THE STUDY This study aimed to use Moquiniastrum polymorphum subsp. polymorphum, mainly the ethanolic extract and fractions, in the treatment of hepatic fibrosis. MATERIALS AND METHODS Extracts were prepared from dried leaves in 100% ethanol (ET) and fractionated with an increased polarity solvent (dichloromethane to methanol). The quantification of compounds in the extracts was characterized by GCMS. The decrease in cell proliferation and the cytotoxicity of the extracts were evaluated together with the mechanisms of apoptosis and autophagy. The expression of genes associated with decreased fibrosis and cell cycle control was assessed and the production of lipid droplets was quantified by Oil Red O staining. RESULTS The experiments showed that treatment with ET and fraction 1 (F1) inhibited the expression of CDKIs (CCDN1, CDK2, CDK4 and CDK6) through an increase in p27, related to an increase in autophagic vesicles. The extract and F1 were able to decrease proliferation and revert the activated state of GRX cells to their quiescent state. CONCLUSION Our results suggest that extracts obtained from Moquiniastrum polymorphum subsp. polymorphum have a potential therapeutic effect against liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matheus Scherer Bastos
- PUCRS, Laboratório de Biofísica Celular e Inflamação, Porto Alegre, Brazil; PUCRS, Laboratório de Biotecnologia Vegetal, Porto Alegre, Brazil.
| | | | | | | | - Krist Helen Antunes
- PUCRS, Laboratório de Imunologia Clínica e Experimental, Porto Alegre, Brazil.
| | | | - Denizar Melo
- PUCRS, Laboratório de Biofísica Celular e Inflamação, Porto Alegre, Brazil.
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Abouelezz HM, Shehatou GS, Shebl AM, Salem HA. A standardized pomegranate fruit extract ameliorates thioacetamide-induced liver fibrosis in rats via AGE-RAGE-ROS signaling. Heliyon 2023; 9:e14256. [PMID: 36938469 PMCID: PMC10015255 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e14256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2023] Open
Abstract
This work aimed to investigate a possible mechanism that may mediate the hepatoprotective effects of pomegranate fruit extract (PFE) against thioacetamide (THIO)-induced liver fibrosis in rats. Male Sprague Dawley rats were randomly allocated into four groups (n = 8 each): control; PFE (150 mg/kg/day, orally); THIO (200 mg/kg, i.p, 3 times a week); and THIO and PFE-treated groups. Oral PFE treatment decreased liver/body weight ratio by 12.4%, diminished serum function levels of ALT, AST, ALP, LDH, and total bilirubin, increased serum albumin, boosted hepatic GSH (by 35.6%) and SOD (by 17.5%), and significantly reduced hepatic levels of ROS, MDA, 4-HNE, AGEs, and RAGE in THIO-fibrotic rats relative to untreated THIO group. Moreover, PFE administration downregulated the hepatic levels of profibrotic TGF-β1 (by 23.0%, P < 0.001) and TIMP-1 (by 41.5%, P < 0.001), attenuated α-SMA protein expression, decreased serum HA levels (by 41.3%), and reduced the hepatic levels of the fibrosis markers hydroxyproline (by 26.0%, P < 0.001), collagen type IV (by 44.3%, P < 0.001) and laminin (by 43.4%, P < 0.001) compared to the untreated THIO group. The histopathological examination has corroborated these findings, where PFE decreased hepatic nodule incidence, attenuated portal necroinflammation and reduced extent of fibrosis. These findings may suggest that oral PFE administration could slow the progression of hepatic fibrogenesis via reducing hepatic levels of AGEs, RAGE, ROS, TGF-β1, and TIMP-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hadeer M. Abouelezz
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
- Corresponding author.
| | - George S.G. Shehatou
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
- Department of Pharmacology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Delta University for Science and Technology, Gamasa City, Egypt
| | - Abdelhadi M. Shebl
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Hatem A. Salem
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
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Kim KE, Lee J, Shin HJ, Jeong EA, Jang HM, Ahn YJ, An HS, Lee JY, Shin MC, Kim SK, Yoo WG, Kim WH, Roh GS. Lipocalin-2 activates hepatic stellate cells and promotes nonalcoholic steatohepatitis in high-fat diet-fed Ob/Ob mice. Hepatology 2023; 77:888-901. [PMID: 35560370 PMCID: PMC9936980 DOI: 10.1002/hep.32569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Revised: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS In obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus, leptin promotes insulin resistance and contributes to the progression of NASH via activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). However, the pathogenic mechanisms that trigger HSC activation in leptin-deficient obesity are still unknown. This study aimed to determine how HSC-targeting lipocalin-2 (LCN2) mediates the transition from simple steatosis to NASH. APPROACH AND RESULTS Male wild-type (WT) and ob/ob mice were fed a high-fat diet (HFD) for 20 weeks to establish an animal model of NASH with fibrosis. Ob/ob mice were subject to caloric restriction or recombinant leptin treatment. Double knockout (DKO) mice lacking both leptin and lcn2 were also fed an HFD for 20 weeks. In addition, HFD-fed ob/ob mice were treated with gadolinium trichloride to deplete Kupffer cells. The LX-2 human HSCs and primary HSCs from ob/ob mice were used to investigate the effects of LCN2 on HSC activation. Serum and hepatic LCN2 expression levels were prominently increased in HFD-fed ob/ob mice compared with normal diet-fed ob/ob mice or HFD-fed WT mice, and these changes were closely linked to liver fibrosis and increased hepatic α-SMA/matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9)/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) protein levels. HFD-fed DKO mice showed a marked reduction of α-SMA protein compared with HFD-fed ob/ob mice. In particular, the colocalization of LCN2 and α-SMA was increased in HSCs from HFD-fed ob/ob mice. In primary HSCs from ob/ob mice, exogenous LCN2 treatment induced HSC activation and MMP9 secretion. By contrast, LCN2 receptor 24p3R deficiency or a STAT3 inhibitor reduced the activation and migration of primary HSCs. CONCLUSIONS LCN2 acts as a key mediator of HSC activation in leptin-deficient obesity via α-SMA/MMP9/STAT3 signaling, thereby exacerbating NASH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyung Eun Kim
- Department of Anatomy and Convergence Medical Science , College of Medicine , Institute of Health Sciences , Gyeongsang National University , Jinju , Republic of Korea
| | - Jaewoong Lee
- Department of Anatomy and Convergence Medical Science , College of Medicine , Institute of Health Sciences , Gyeongsang National University , Jinju , Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Joo Shin
- Department of Anatomy and Convergence Medical Science , College of Medicine , Institute of Health Sciences , Gyeongsang National University , Jinju , Republic of Korea
| | - Eun Ae Jeong
- Department of Anatomy and Convergence Medical Science , College of Medicine , Institute of Health Sciences , Gyeongsang National University , Jinju , Republic of Korea
| | - Hye Min Jang
- Department of Anatomy and Convergence Medical Science , College of Medicine , Institute of Health Sciences , Gyeongsang National University , Jinju , Republic of Korea
| | - Yu Jeong Ahn
- Department of Anatomy and Convergence Medical Science , College of Medicine , Institute of Health Sciences , Gyeongsang National University , Jinju , Republic of Korea
| | - Hyeong Seok An
- Department of Anatomy and Convergence Medical Science , College of Medicine , Institute of Health Sciences , Gyeongsang National University , Jinju , Republic of Korea
| | - Jong Youl Lee
- Department of Anatomy and Convergence Medical Science , College of Medicine , Institute of Health Sciences , Gyeongsang National University , Jinju , Republic of Korea
| | - Meong Cheol Shin
- College of Pharmacy , Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences , Gyeongsang National University , Jinju , Republic of Korea
| | - Soo Kyoung Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine , College of Medicine , Institute of Health Sciences , Gyeongsang National University , Jinju , Republic of Korea
| | - Won Gi Yoo
- Department of Parasitology and Tropical Medicine , College of Medicine , Institute of Health Sciences , Gyeongsang National University , Jinju , Republic of Korea
| | - Won Ho Kim
- Division of Cardiovascular Diseases , Center for Biomedical Sciences , Korea National Institute of Health , Cheongju , Republic of Korea
| | - Gu Seob Roh
- Department of Anatomy and Convergence Medical Science , College of Medicine , Institute of Health Sciences , Gyeongsang National University , Jinju , Republic of Korea
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Research progress of metformin in the treatment of liver fibrosis. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 116:109738. [PMID: 36696857 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.109738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a disease with significant morbidity and mortality. It is a chronic pathological process characterized by an imbalance of extracellular matrix production and degradation in liver tissue. Metformin is a type of hypoglycemic biguanide drug, which can be used in the treatment of liver fibrosis, but its anti-fibrotic effect and mechanism of action are unclear. The purpose of this article is to review the research progress of metformin in the treatment of liver fibrosis and to provide a theoretical basis for its application in the treatment of liver fibrosis.
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Wang S, He L, Xiao F, Gao M, Wei H, Yang J, Shu Y, Zhang F, Ye X, Li P, Hao X, Zhou X, Wei H. Upregulation of GLT25D1 in Hepatic Stellate Cells Promotes Liver Fibrosis via the TGF-β1/SMAD3 Pathway In Vivo and In vitro. J Clin Transl Hepatol 2023; 11:1-14. [PMID: 36406310 PMCID: PMC9647113 DOI: 10.14218/jcth.2022.00005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Collagen β(1-O) galactosyltransferase 25 domain 1 (GLT25D1) is associated with collagen production and glycosylation, and its knockout in mice results in embryonic death. However, its role in liver fibrosis remains elusive, particularly in hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), the primary collagen-producing cells associated with liver fibrogenesis. Herein, we aimed to elucidate the role of GLT25D1 in HSCs. METHODS Bile duct ligation (BDL)-induced mouse liver fibrosis models, primary mouse HSCs (mHSCs), and transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1)-stimulated LX-2 human hepatic stellate cells were used in in vivo and in vitro studies. Stable LX-2 cell lines with either GLT25D1 overexpression or knockdown were established using lentiviral transfection. RNA-seq was performed to investigate the genomic differences. HPLC-MS/MS were used to identify glycosylation sites. Scanning electronic microscopy (SEM) and second-harmonic generation/two-photon excited fluorescence (SHG/TPEF) were used to image collagen fibril morphology. RESULTS GLT25D1 expression was upregulated in nonparenchymal cells in human cirrhotic liver tissues. Meanwhile, its knockdown attenuated collagen deposition in BDL-induced mouse liver fibrosis and inhibited mHSC activation. GLT25D1 was overexpressed in activated versus quiescence LX-2 cells and regulated in vitro LX-2 cell activation, including proliferation, contraction, and migration. GLT25D1 also significantly increased liver fibrogenic gene and protein expression. GLT25D1 upregulation promoted HSC activation and enhanced collagen expression through the TGF-β1/SMAD signaling pathway. Mass spectrometry showed that GLT25D1 regulated the glycosylation of collagen in HSCs, affecting the diameter of collagen fibers. CONCLUSIONS Collectively, the upregulation of GLT25D1 in HSCs promoted the progression of liver fibrosis by affecting HSCs activation and collagen stability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiwei Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Lingling He
- Department of Gastroenterology, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Fan Xiao
- Institute of Infectious Diseases, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Meixin Gao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Herui Wei
- Department of Gastroenterology, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Junru Yang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yang Shu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Fuyang Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaohui Ye
- Department of Gastroenterology, Beijing Huaxin Hospital, the First Affiliated Hospital of Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Ping Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaohua Hao
- Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xingang Zhou
- Department of Pathology, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Hongshan Wei
- Department of Gastroenterology, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, Peking University Ditan Teaching Hospital, Beijing, China
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Alshehri FS, Alorfi NM. Protective role of resveratrol against VCM-induced hepatotoxicity in male wistar rats. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1130670. [PMID: 36825158 PMCID: PMC9941161 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1130670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Vancomycin is a glycopeptide antibiotic with a high risk of acute liver injury. Resveratrol is believed to protect the liver against toxicity. Aim: To investigate the ability of resveratrol to attenuate vancomycin-induced liver toxicity in rats injected with vancomycin. Method: Twenty-four adult male Wistar rats were distributed into three groups. The control group received only a vehicle, while the treated group received either vancomycin 200 (mg/kg, i. p.) only or vancomycin (200 mg/kg, i. p.) with resveratrol (20 mg/kg, oral gavage). All groups received their dose once daily for 7 days. Hepatic damage was assessed by measuring biochemical parameter levels in serum, aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). Also, antioxidants and inflammation biomarkers such as Interleukin-6 (IL-6), malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO), and glutathione (GSH) were measured. Furthermore, the vancomycin-induced pathological changes in the liver were evaluated by histopathological studies. Results: In the vancomycin-treated group, hepatic serum biomarkers such as AST, ALT, ALP, IL-6, and MDA were elevated, while NO and GSH were depleted. However, resveratrol co-treatment with vancomycin prevented the elevation of AST, ALT, ALP, IL-6, and MDA and it protected the liver from NO and GSH depletion. Also, regarding vancomycin-induced degeneration of hepatocytes, resveratrol co-treatment with vancomycin prevented such degeneration and improved mononuclear cells in the liver. Conclusion: The results showed that oral administration of resveratrol has a significant hepatoprotective effect against vancomycin-induced hepatotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nasser M. Alorfi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
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Biochanin A in murine Schistosoma mansoni infection: effects on inflammation, oxidative stress and fibrosis. J Helminthol 2023; 97:e16. [PMID: 36740983 DOI: 10.1017/s0022149x22000839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Biochanin A (BCA) is a multifunctional natural compound that possesses anti-infective, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative and hepatoprotective effects. The aim of the study was to assess the therapeutic efficacy of BCA on Schistosoma mansoni-infected mice. Fifty mice were divided into six different groups as non-infected, non-infected BCA-treated, infected untreated, early infected BCA-treated (seven days post-infection (dpi)), late infected BCA-treated 60 dpi and infected praziquantel (PZQ)-treated groups. Parasitological, histopathological examination and immunohistochemical staining of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase (COX-2) were investigated in liver sections. Cytochrome P450 (CYP450) gene expression of S. mansoni was evaluated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). A single dose of BCA significantly reduced worm burden in early (82.14%) and late infection (77.74%), mean tissue egg load in early (7.27 ± 0.495) and late BCA administration (7.63 ± 0.435) and decreased granuloma size. CYP450 mRNA expression was significantly reduced in early BCA treatment as compared to late treatment which emphasizes that early administration of BCA had more pronounced effects on worms than late administration. Both early and late BCA administration led to significant reduction in inflammatory cytokines as TGF and iNOS. Although the reduction of TGF and iNOS in BCA-treated mice was superior to PZQ, no statistically significant differences were noted. However, a significant downregulation of COX2 was noted in hepatocytes as compared to both infected control and PZQ-treated mice. BCA has schistosomicidal, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-fibrotic effects and could be regarded as a potential drug in schistosomiasis treatment.
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Abstract
Methotrexate is a key component of the treatment of inflammatory rheumatic diseases and the mainstay of therapy in rheumatoid arthritis. Hepatotoxicity has long been a concern for prescribers envisaging long-term treatment with methotrexate for their patients. However, the putative liver toxicity of methotrexate should be evaluated in the context of advances in our knowledge of the pathogenesis and natural history of liver disease, especially non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Notably, patients with NAFLD are at increased risk for methotrexate hepatotoxicity, and methotrexate can worsen the course of NAFLD. Understanding the mechanisms of acute hepatotoxicity can facilitate the interpretation of elevated concentrations of liver enzymes in this context. Liver fibrosis and the mechanisms of fibrogenesis also need to be considered in relation to chronic exposure to methotrexate. A number of non-invasive tests for liver fibrosis are available for use in patients with rheumatic disease, in addition to liver biopsy, which can be appropriate for particular individuals. On the basis of the available evidence, practical suggestions for pretreatment screening and long-term monitoring of methotrexate therapy can be made for patients who have (or are at risk for) chronic liver disease.
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Bachtler N, Torres S, Ortiz C, Schierwagen R, Tyc O, Hieber C, Berres ML, Meier C, Kraus N, Zeuzem S, Nijmeijer B, Pronk S, Trebicka J, Klein S. The non-selective Rho-kinase inhibitors Y-27632 and Y-33075 decrease contraction but increase migration in murine and human hepatic stellate cells. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0270288. [PMID: 36719899 PMCID: PMC9888688 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0270288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Rho-kinase ROCK II plays a major role in the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSC), which are the key profibrotic and contractile cells contributing to the development of chronic liver disease. Inhibition of ROCK II ultimately blocks the phosphorylation of the myosin light chain (MLC) and thus inhibits stress fibre assembly and cell contraction. We investigated the effects of the ROCK inhibitors Y-33075 as well as Y-27632 in murine and human hepatic stellate cells. METHODS Primary isolated HSC from FVB/NJ mice and the immortalized human HSC line TWNT-4 were culture-activated and incubated with Y-27632 and Y-33075 (10nM to 10μM) for 24h. Protein expression levels were analyzed by Western Blots and transcriptional levels of pro-fibrotic markers and proliferative markers were evaluated using real-time qPCR. Migration was investigated by wound-healing assay. Proliferation was assessed by BrdU assay. Contraction of HSC was measured using 3D collagen matrices after incubation with Y-27632 or Y-33075 in different doses. RESULTS Both Rho-kinase inhibitors, Y-27632 and Y-33075, reduced contraction, fibrogenesis and proliferation in activated primary mouse HSC (FVB/NJ) and human HSC line (TWNT-4) significantly. Y-33075 demonstrated a 10-times increased potency compared to Y-27632. Surprisingly, both inhibitors mediated a substantial and unexpected increase in migration of HSC in FVB/NJ. CONCLUSION ROCK inhibition by the tested compounds decreased contraction but increased migration. Y-33075 proved more potent than Y27632 in the inhibition of contraction of HSCs and should be further evaluated in chronic liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadine Bachtler
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Sandra Torres
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Cristina Ortiz
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Robert Schierwagen
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Olaf Tyc
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Christoph Hieber
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Marie-Luise Berres
- Department of Medicine III, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Caroline Meier
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Nico Kraus
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Stefan Zeuzem
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
| | | | | | - Jonel Trebicka
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
- European Foundation for the Study of Chronic Liver Failure, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sabine Klein
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
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Protein Acetylation Increased Risk of Fibrosis-Related Liver Cancer. JOURNAL OF ONCOLOGY 2023; 2023:3624635. [PMID: 36727157 PMCID: PMC9886473 DOI: 10.1155/2023/3624635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Objective The occurrence of liver fibrosis and fibrosis-related liver cancer is the reason for the increase in morbidity and mortality worldwide. Transforming growth factor-β2 (TGF-β2) is an important mediator of chronic liver fibrosis. This study aims to find the molecular mechanism that mediates HBV infection and induces TGF-β2 and verifies that CREB binding protein acetylation mediates HBV infection and induces TGF-β2 expression. Methods The acetylated proteins were extracted from HepG2-NTCP cells and HBV-infectedHepG2-NTCP cells. The acetylated proteins were screened by modification enrichment technology and database search. Protein annotation, motif analysis of modification sites, and protein function enrichment analysis of these proteins were performed to roughly clarify the location and function of these acetylated modification proteins in cells. Acylated proteins enriched in the TGF-β pathway were obtained by KEGG pathway enrichment analysis. The effect of the selected acetylated modification protein on the TGF-β pathway was verified by experiments, that is, the target protein gene was knocked out by siRNA, and the expression level of the TGF-β2 was detected by qRT-PCR. Results Proteins were extracted from HepG2-NTCP cells and HepG2-NTCP cells infected with HBV, and differential acetylation modification proteins were screened. The target protein CREB binding protein was screened by modification enrichment technology and database search. The aggregation analysis of TGF-β pathway showed that CREB binding protein was acetylated at amino acid positions 434 and 439, and enriched in the TGF-β signaling pathway. siRNA targeting CREB binding protein was transfected, and the expression of TGF-β2 in cells was detected by qRT-PCR and western blot, respectively. It was verified that HBV infection-inducedCREB-binding protein acetylation regulated the high expression of TGF-β2. Conclusion After HBV infection, CREBBP acetylation was up-regulated, which promoted the high expression of TGF-β2.
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An L, Wirth U, Koch D, Schirren M, Drefs M, Koliogiannis D, Niess H, Andrassy J, Guba M, Bazhin AV, Werner J, Kühn F. Metabolic Role of Autophagy in the Pathogenesis and Development of NAFLD. Metabolites 2023; 13:metabo13010101. [PMID: 36677026 PMCID: PMC9864958 DOI: 10.3390/metabo13010101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a spectrum of liver disease, ranging from simple steatosis to hepatitis, fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Liver fibrosis, which portends a poor prognosis in NAFLD, is characterized by the excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins resulting from abnormal wound repair response and metabolic disorders. Various metabolic factors play crucial roles in the progression of NAFLD, including abnormal lipid, bile acid, and endotoxin metabolism, leading to chronic inflammation and hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation. Autophagy is a conserved process within cells that removes unnecessary or dysfunctional components through a lysosome-dependent regulated mechanism. Accumulating evidence has shown the importance of autophagy in NAFLD and its close relation to NAFLD progression. Thus, regulation of autophagy appears to be beneficial in treating NAFLD and could become an important therapeutic target.
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121
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Quiroz Reyes AG, Lozano Sepulveda SA, Martinez-Acuña N, Islas JF, Gonzalez PD, Heredia Torres TG, Perez JR, Garza Treviño EN. Cancer Stem Cell and Hepatic Stellate Cells in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Technol Cancer Res Treat 2023; 22:15330338231163677. [PMID: 36938618 PMCID: PMC10028642 DOI: 10.1177/15330338231163677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common liver cancer. It is highly lethal and has high recurrence. Death among HCC patients occur mainly due to tumor progression, recurrence, metastasis, and chemoresistance. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are cell subpopulations within the tumor that promote invasion, recurrence, metastasis, and drug resistance. Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are important components of the tumor microenvironment (TME) responsible for primary secretory ECM proteins during liver injury and inflammation. These cells promote fibrogenesis, infiltrate the tumor stroma, and contribute to HCC development. Interactions between HSC and CSC and their microenvironment help promote carcinogenesis through different mechanisms. This review summarizes the roles of CSCs and HSCs in establishing the TME in primary liver tumors and describes their involvement in HCC chemoresistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana G Quiroz Reyes
- Facultad de Medicina, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, 27771Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon, Monterrey, Mexico
| | - Sonia A Lozano Sepulveda
- Facultad de Medicina, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, 27771Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon, Monterrey, Mexico
| | - Natalia Martinez-Acuña
- Facultad de Medicina, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, 27771Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon, Monterrey, Mexico
| | - Jose F Islas
- Facultad de Medicina, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, 27771Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon, Monterrey, Mexico
| | - Paulina Delgado Gonzalez
- Facultad de Medicina, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, 27771Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon, Monterrey, Mexico
| | - Tania Guadalupe Heredia Torres
- Facultad de Medicina, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, 27771Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon, Monterrey, Mexico
| | - Jorge Roacho Perez
- Facultad de Medicina, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, 27771Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon, Monterrey, Mexico
| | - Elsa N Garza Treviño
- Facultad de Medicina, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, 27771Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon, Monterrey, Mexico
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Wang D, Xu H, Fan L, Ruan W, Song Q, Diao H, He R, Jin Y. Hyperphosphorylation of EGFR/ERK signaling facilitates long-term arsenite-induced hepatocytes epithelial-mesenchymal transition and liver fibrosis in sprague-dawley rats. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2023; 249:114386. [PMID: 36508792 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2022.114386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Revised: 11/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Arsenic is a well known environmental hazardous material, chronic arsenic exposure results in different types of liver damage. Among them, liver fibrosis has become a research hotspot because of its reversibility, while the underlying mechanism is still unclear. Previous studies revealed that EGFR/ERK signaling appears to play an important role in fibrosis diseases. In this study, sprague-dawley rats were exposed to different doses of arsenite for 36 weeks to investigate the roles of EGFR/ERK signaling on arsenite-induced liver fibrogenesis. Our results showed that long-term arsenite exposure induced liver fibrosis, accompanied by hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) activation, excessive serum secretion of extracellular matrix (ECM), and hepatocytes epithelial-mesenchymal transformation (EMT). In addition, arsenite exposure caused hyperphosphorylation of EGFR/ERK signaling in liver tissue of rats, indicating that EGFR/ERK signaling may be involved in arsenite-induced liver fibrosis. Indeed, erlotinib (a specific phosphorylation inhibitor of EGFR) intervention significantly decreased arsenite induced hyperphosphorylation of EGFR/ERK signaling, thereby suppressed hepatocytes EMT process and alleviated liver fibrogenesis in arsenite exposed rats. In summary, the present study provides evidences showing that hyperphosphorylation of EGFR/ERK signaling facilitates long-term arsenite-induced hepatocytes EMT and liver fibrosis in rats, which brings new insights into the pathogenesis of arsenic-induced liver injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dapeng Wang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, China.
| | - Huifen Xu
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, China
| | - Lili Fan
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, China
| | - Wenli Ruan
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, China; Tongren Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Tongren 554300, Guizhou, China
| | - Qian Song
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, China
| | - Heng Diao
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, China
| | - Rui He
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, China
| | - Ying Jin
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, China
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Wang J, Du M, Meng L, Yang Y, He S, Zhu Y, Ren X, Wei M, Dong R, Zheng S, Chen G. Integrative analysis implicates the significance of m6A in the liver fibrosis of biliary atresia by regulating THY1. Hepatol Commun 2023; 7:e0004. [PMID: 36633486 PMCID: PMC9827977 DOI: 10.1097/hc9.0000000000000004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Whether N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is involved in biliary atresia (BA) remains undefined. Herein, we comprehensively evaluated the m6A profile in BA. When compared with normal controls, BA had an elevated m6A level with upregulated m6A writers. The m6A level was correlated with liver function, stage of fibrosis and jaundice clearance in BA. Methylated RNA immunoprecipitation sequencing (MeRIP-seq) demonstrated an altered m6A topology in BA. MeRIP-seq and RNA sequencing filtered out 130 m6A-modified genes, which were enriched in fibrogenetic pathways. MeRIP-qPCR in vivo and interventions of LX-2 and primary HSCs in vitro validated the regulatory role of m6A on COL1A1 and THY1. THY1+ myofibroblasts expanded in portal area of BA, and highly expressed profibrogenic genes (COL1A1, MMP2, PDGFRA, and DCN). THY1 was correlated with liver fibrosis and jaundice clearance in BA. Bulk array (GSE46960, GSE15235), single-cell RNA sequencing (GSE136103), primary HSC interventions, and co-immunoprecipitation revealed that THY1 was correlated with extracellular matrix organization, promoted HSC activation, showed higher interactions with integrins on myeloid cells in cholestatic fibrosis, and was correlated with native liver survival in BA. Our study highlights the significance of m6A in BA-induced liver fibrogenesis by regulating THY1, shedding new light on the novel therapies to alleviate liver fibrosis by targeting m6A/THY1 axis in BA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junfeng Wang
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Children’s Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Birth Defect, and Key Laboratory of Neonatal Disease, Ministry of Health, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Min Du
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Children’s Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Birth Defect, and Key Laboratory of Neonatal Disease, Ministry of Health, Shanghai, P.R. China
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Chengdu Women’s and Children’s Central Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, P.R. China
| | - Lingdu Meng
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Children’s Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Birth Defect, and Key Laboratory of Neonatal Disease, Ministry of Health, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Yifan Yang
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Children’s Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Birth Defect, and Key Laboratory of Neonatal Disease, Ministry of Health, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Shiwei He
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Children’s Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Birth Defect, and Key Laboratory of Neonatal Disease, Ministry of Health, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Ye Zhu
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Children’s Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Birth Defect, and Key Laboratory of Neonatal Disease, Ministry of Health, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Xue Ren
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Children’s Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Birth Defect, and Key Laboratory of Neonatal Disease, Ministry of Health, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Meng Wei
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Children’s Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Birth Defect, and Key Laboratory of Neonatal Disease, Ministry of Health, Shanghai, P.R. China
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Shanghai Children’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Rui Dong
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Children’s Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Birth Defect, and Key Laboratory of Neonatal Disease, Ministry of Health, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Shan Zheng
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Children’s Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Birth Defect, and Key Laboratory of Neonatal Disease, Ministry of Health, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Gong Chen
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Children’s Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Birth Defect, and Key Laboratory of Neonatal Disease, Ministry of Health, Shanghai, P.R. China
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Liu SQ, Deng X, Zhu CP, Cui YL, Xie WF, Zhang X. Depletion of Tgfbr2 in hepatocytes alleviates liver fibrosis and restores hepatic function in fibrotic mice. J Dig Dis 2023; 24:39-50. [PMID: 36967587 DOI: 10.1111/1751-2980.13161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Previous studies have demonstrated the pivotal role of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β signaling in activating hepatic stellate cells during liver fibrosis. In this study we aimed to demonstrate the effects and underlying mechanism of TGF-β signaling in hepatocytes on hepatic fibrogenesis. METHODS Hepatocyte-specific Tgfbr2-knockout (Tgfbr2HKO ) mice were generated by AAV8-TBG-Cre injection via the tail vein of Tgfbr2f/f mice. CCl4 was injected intraperitoneally twice a week for 4 weeks to establish the fibrotic mouse model. The expression of the fibrogenesis markers was evaluated by immunohistochemistry, western blot, and real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). RNA-seq analysis was used to detect the transcriptional profiles of primary hepatocytes isolated from Tgfbr2HKO mice and control mice. RESULTS The expression of TβR2 (Tgfbr2) was markedly upregulated in hepatocytes of the fibrotic liver. Tgfbr2 depletion in hepatocytes decreased the expressions of profibrogenic markers (Col1a1 and Acta2) in the CCl4 -treated fibrotic liver. RNA-seq analysis revealed that Tgfbr2 deletion in hepatocytes significantly reduced the inflammatory response and suppressed epithelial-mesenchymal transition of hepatocytes accompanied by upregulation of the metabolic pathways during liver fibrosis. Moreover, the expressions of hepatocyte nuclear factors (HNFs), including Hnf4α, Foxa1, Foxa2, and Foxa3, which are important for maintaining liver metabolism and homeostasis, were decreased in fibrotic livers and significantly increased after Tgfbr2 blockade. CONCLUSION Blocking the TGF-β signaling pathway in hepatocytes reduces hepatic fibrosis and improves hepatic function in fibrotic livers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu Qing Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xing Deng
- Department of Gastroenterology, Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chang Peng Zhu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ya Lu Cui
- Department of Gastroenterology, Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Fen Xie
- Department of Gastroenterology, Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
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Rashidi M, Matour E, Monjezi S, Asadi Zadeh S, Shakerian E, Sabahy S, Afarin R. Effects of exosomes of mesenchymal stem cells on cholesterol-induced hepatic fibrogenesis. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF BASIC MEDICAL SCIENCES 2023; 26:695-700. [PMID: 37275763 PMCID: PMC10237171 DOI: 10.22038/ijbms.2023.68858.15003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Objectives Free cholesterol in the diet can cause liver fibrosis by accumulating in Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). The rate of mortality of this disease is high worldwide and there is no definite remedy for it, but might be treated by anti-fibrotic therapies. MSCs-derived exosomes are known as the new mechanism of cell-to-cell communication, showing that exosomes can be used as a new treatment. In this study, we investigated the ability of exosomes of WJ-MSCs as a new remedy to reduce cholesterol-induced liver fibrosis in the LX2 cell line. Materials and Methods MSCs were isolated from Wharton's jelly of the umbilical cord and the exosomes were extracted. The LX2 cell line was cultured in DMEM medium with 10% FBS, then cells were treated with 75 and 100 μM concentrations of cholesterol for 24 hr. The mRNA expression of TGF-β, αSMA, and collagen1α genes, and the level of Smad3 protein were measured to assess liver fibrosis. Results Cholesterol increased the expression of TGF-β, αand -SMA, and collagen1α genes by increasing the phosphorylation of the Smad3 protein. Treatment with Exosomes significantly reduced the expression of TGF-β, α-SMA, and collagen1α genes (fibrosis genes). Treatment with exosomes prevented the activation of HSCs by inhibiting the phosphorylation of the Smad3 protein. Conclusion The exosomes of WJ-MSCs can inhibit the TGFβ/Smad3 signaling pathway preventing further activation of HSCs and progression of liver fibrosis. So, the exosomes of WJ-MSCs s could be introduced as a treatment for liver failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mojtaba Rashidi
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Medical Basic Sciences Research Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Emad Matour
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Medical Basic Sciences Research Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Sajad Monjezi
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Medical Basic Sciences Research Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Shahla Asadi Zadeh
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Medical Basic Sciences Research Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Elham Shakerian
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Medical Basic Sciences Research Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Sahar Sabahy
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Medical Basic Sciences Research Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Reza Afarin
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Medical Basic Sciences Research Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
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Li TT, Su XW, Chen LL, Zhang WN, Zhang JP, Wang Y, Xu WH. Roxarsone inhibits hepatic stellate cell activation and ameliorates liver fibrosis by blocking TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 114:109527. [PMID: 36700762 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2022.109527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis is a pathological change caused by chronic liver injury and self-repair, and it is the inevitable stage of the development of chronic liver disease to cirrhosis or even liver cancer. Activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) is a core event in the development of liver fibrosis and blockage of the activation of HSCs has been shown to alleviate liver fibrosis. Roxarsone, an organoarsenic additive, with antibiotic effect, growth promotion and improving feed efficiency, is widely used in livestock and animal production. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the therapeutic effect of Roxarsone on liver fibrosis and explore the possible mechanism. We found that Roxarsone could inhibit transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) induced the activation of HSCs and weaken the migration ability. Moreover, Roxarsone administration significantly ameliorated CCl4-induced liver fibrosis in mice with improvement of liver function and decreases of deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM). Mechanism investigations revealed that Roxarsone specifically inhibited the activation of TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway, but had no effect on MAPK and PI3K/AKT pathways. These results suggest that Roxarsone has a protective effect on liver fibrosis which provides a new candidate for the treatment of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting-Ting Li
- College of Pharmacy, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, PR China
| | - Xiao-Wei Su
- College of Pharmacy, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, PR China
| | - Lin-Lin Chen
- College of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, PR China
| | - Wan-Nian Zhang
- College of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, PR China
| | - Jun-Ping Zhang
- College of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, PR China; College of Pharmacy, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, PR China
| | - Yan Wang
- College of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, PR China.
| | - Wei-Heng Xu
- College of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, PR China.
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Xu L, Li H, Zhang O, Zhang F, Song M, Ma M, Zhao Y, Ding R, Li D, Dong Z, Jin S, Han W, Ding C. Melatonin alleviates diet-induced steatohepatitis by targeting multiple cell types in the liver to suppress inflammation and fibrosis. J Mol Endocrinol 2023; 70:JME-22-0075. [PMID: 36356262 DOI: 10.1530/jme-22-0075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
The pathogenesis of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), a severe stage of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, is complex and implicates multiple cell interactions. However, therapies for NASH that target multiple cell interactions are still lacking. Melatonin (MEL) alleviates NASH with mechanisms not yet fully understood. Thus, we herein investigate the effects of MEL on key cell types involved in NASH, including hepatocytes, macrophages, and stellate cells. In a mouse NASH model with feeding of a methionine and choline-deficient (MCD) diet, MEL administration suppressed lipid accumulation and peroxidation, improved insulin sensitivity, and attenuated inflammation and fibrogenesis in the liver. Specifically, MEL reduced proinflammatory cytokine expression and inflammatory signal activation and attenuated CD11C+CD206- M1-like macrophage polarization in the liver of NASH mice. The reduction of proinflammatory response by MEL was also observed in the lipopolysaccharide-stimulated Raw264.7 cells. Additionally, MEL increased liver fatty acid β-oxidation, leading to reduced lipid accumulation, and restored the oleate-loaded primary hepatocytes. Finally, MEL attenuated hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation and fibrogenesis in the liver of MCD-fed mice and in LX-2 human HSCs. In conclusion, MEL acts on multiple cell types in the liver to mitigate NASH-associated phenotypes, supporting MEL or its analog as potential treatment for NASH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Xu
- School of Laboratory Medicine and Life Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, Ministry of Education, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Haoran Li
- School of Laboratory Medicine and Life Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ouyang Zhang
- School of Laboratory Medicine and Life Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Fengming Zhang
- School of Laboratory Medicine and Life Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Menghui Song
- School of Laboratory Medicine and Life Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Mengchen Ma
- School of Laboratory Medicine and Life Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Youjuan Zhao
- School of Laboratory Medicine and Life Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Rongxiu Ding
- School of Laboratory Medicine and Life Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Dandan Li
- School of Laboratory Medicine and Life Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zhixiong Dong
- School of Laboratory Medicine and Life Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Shengnan Jin
- School of Laboratory Medicine and Life Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, Ministry of Education, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Weiping Han
- School of Laboratory Medicine and Life Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore
| | - Chunming Ding
- School of Laboratory Medicine and Life Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, Ministry of Education, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
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Pouletaut P, Boussida S, Ternifi R, Miette V, Audière S, Fournier C, Sandrin L, Charleux F, Bensamoun SF. Impact of Hepatic Iron Overload in the Evaluation of Steatosis and Fibrosis in Patients with Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Using Vibration-Controlled Transient Elastography (VCTE) and MR Imaging Techniques: a Clinical Study. Ing Rech Biomed 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.irbm.2022.100750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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Li D, Guo X, Zhao W, Jingyu J, Xia C, Yu G. Genome-wide DNA methylation dynamics in carbon tetrachloride-induced mice liver fibrosis. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF BASIC MEDICAL SCIENCES 2023; 26:85-92. [PMID: 36594057 PMCID: PMC9790058 DOI: 10.22038/ijbms.2022.66256.14555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Objectives Many persistent harmful stimuli can result in chronic liver diseases, which lead to about 2 million deaths per year in the whole world. Liver fibrosis was found to exist in all kinds of chronic liver diseases. Many studies suggested that DNA methylation was associated with the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis. This study aimed to quantitatively detect DNA methylation changes in the whole genome in fibrotic liver tissues of mice. Materials and Methods Liver fibrosis was induced by intraperitoneal injection of carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) for 4 weeks. A genome-wide methylome analysis was performed using 850K BeadChips assays. The methylation status of 27 CpG dinucleotides located in 3 genes was detected by pyrosequencing to confirm chip data accuracy, and mRNA expressions of these 3 genes were examined by RT-qPCR methods. Results A total of 130,068 differentially methylated sites (DMS, 58,474 hypermethylated, and 71,594 hypomethylated) between fibrotic liver tissues and control mice liver tissues were identified by the 850k BeadChips array. Consistency between pyrosequencing data and 850k BeadChips array data was observed (R=0.928; P<0.01). Apoptosis, positive regulation of transcription of Notch receptor target, and negative regulation of p38MAPK signal cascade activities were significantly enriched in the Gene Ontology (GO) analyses. Cholesterol metabolism, bile secretion, and more biosynthesis and metabolism pathways were enriched in KEGG pathway analyses. Ten key genes were identified by the Cytoscape plugin cytoHubba. Conclusion 7850 genes were found to have methylation change in fibrotic liver tissues of mice, which facilitates future research for clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deming Li
- State Key Laboratory Cell Differentiation and Regulation, Henan International Joint Laboratory of Pulmonary Fibrosis, Henan Center for Outstanding Overseas Scientists of Pulmonary Fibrosis, Overseas Expertise Introduction Center for Discipline Innovation of Pulmonary Fibrosis (111 Project), College of Life Science, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, Henan, China,These authors contributed eqully to this work
| | - Xiaoshu Guo
- State Key Laboratory Cell Differentiation and Regulation, Henan International Joint Laboratory of Pulmonary Fibrosis, Henan Center for Outstanding Overseas Scientists of Pulmonary Fibrosis, Overseas Expertise Introduction Center for Discipline Innovation of Pulmonary Fibrosis (111 Project), College of Life Science, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, Henan, China,Department of Physiology, Changzhi Medical College, Shanxi, China,These authors contributed eqully to this work
| | - Wenyu Zhao
- State Key Laboratory Cell Differentiation and Regulation, Henan International Joint Laboratory of Pulmonary Fibrosis, Henan Center for Outstanding Overseas Scientists of Pulmonary Fibrosis, Overseas Expertise Introduction Center for Discipline Innovation of Pulmonary Fibrosis (111 Project), College of Life Science, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, Henan, China
| | - Jingyu Jingyu
- State Key Laboratory Cell Differentiation and Regulation, Henan International Joint Laboratory of Pulmonary Fibrosis, Henan Center for Outstanding Overseas Scientists of Pulmonary Fibrosis, Overseas Expertise Introduction Center for Discipline Innovation of Pulmonary Fibrosis (111 Project), College of Life Science, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, Henan, China
| | - Cong Xia
- State Key Laboratory Cell Differentiation and Regulation, Henan International Joint Laboratory of Pulmonary Fibrosis, Henan Center for Outstanding Overseas Scientists of Pulmonary Fibrosis, Overseas Expertise Introduction Center for Discipline Innovation of Pulmonary Fibrosis (111 Project), College of Life Science, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, Henan, China
| | - Guoying Yu
- State Key Laboratory Cell Differentiation and Regulation, Henan International Joint Laboratory of Pulmonary Fibrosis, Henan Center for Outstanding Overseas Scientists of Pulmonary Fibrosis, Overseas Expertise Introduction Center for Discipline Innovation of Pulmonary Fibrosis (111 Project), College of Life Science, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, Henan, China,Corresponding author: Guoying Yu. State Key Laboratory Cell Differentiation and Regulation, Henan International Joint Laboratory of Pulmonary Fibrosis, Henan Center for Outstanding Overseas Scientists of Pulmonary Fibrosis, Overseas Expertise Introduction Center for Discipline Innovation of Pulmonary Fibrosis (111 Project), College of Life Science, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, Henan, China. Tel: +86-03733326340; Fax: +86-0373 3326524;
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Yuan Z, Wang J, Zhang H, Chai Y, Xu Y, Miao Y, Yuan Z, Zhang L, Jiang Z, Yu Q. Glycocholic acid aggravates liver fibrosis by promoting the up-regulation of connective tissue growth factor in hepatocytes. Cell Signal 2023; 101:110508. [PMID: 36341984 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2022.110508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
AIMS The precise role of bile acid in the progression of liver fibrosis has yet to be elucidated. In this study, common bile duct ligation was used as an in vivo mouse model for the evaluation of bile acids that promote liver connective tissue growth factor expression. MAIN METHODS Primary rat and mice hepatocytes, as well as primary rat hepatic stellate and HepaRG cells were evaluated as in vitro models for promoting the expression of connective tissue growth factor by bile acids. KEY FINDINGS Compared with taurochenodeoxycholic acid, glycochenodeoxycholic acid, and taurocholic acid, glycocholic acid (GCA) most strongly promoted the secretion of connective tissue growth factor in mouse primary hepatocytes, rat primary hepatocytes and HepaRGs. GCA did not directly promote the activation of hepatic stellate cells. The administration of GCA in mice with ligated bile ducts promotes the progression of liver fibrosis, which may promote the yes-associated protein of hepatocytes into the nucleus, resulting in the hepatocytes secreting more connective tissue growth factor for hepatic stellate cell activation. In conclusion, our data showed that GCA can induce the expression of connective tissue growth factor in hepatocytes by promoting the nuclear translocation of yes-associated protein, thereby activating hepatic stellate cells. SIGNIFICANCE Our findings help to elucidate the contribution of GCA to the progression of hepatic fibrosis in cholestatic disease and aid the clinical monitoring of cholestatic liver fibrosis development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zihang Yuan
- New drug screening center, Jiangsu Center for Pharmacodynamics Research and Evaluation, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Jie Wang
- New drug screening center, Jiangsu Center for Pharmacodynamics Research and Evaluation, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Haoran Zhang
- New drug screening center, Jiangsu Center for Pharmacodynamics Research and Evaluation, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yuanyuan Chai
- New drug screening center, Jiangsu Center for Pharmacodynamics Research and Evaluation, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yunxia Xu
- New drug screening center, Jiangsu Center for Pharmacodynamics Research and Evaluation, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yingying Miao
- New drug screening center, Jiangsu Center for Pharmacodynamics Research and Evaluation, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Ziqiao Yuan
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Luyong Zhang
- New drug screening center, Jiangsu Center for Pharmacodynamics Research and Evaluation, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China; Center for Drug Research and Development, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Zhenzhou Jiang
- New drug screening center, Jiangsu Center for Pharmacodynamics Research and Evaluation, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China; Key Laboratory of Drug Quality Control and Pharmacovigilance, Ministry of Education, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China; State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China.
| | - Qinwei Yu
- New drug screening center, Jiangsu Center for Pharmacodynamics Research and Evaluation, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China.
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Du C, Dong J, Wang Q, Xu C, Feng S, Feng R, Lv X, Li J, Zhang L, Huang C, Ma T. Hastatoside attenuatescarbon tetrachloride-induced liver fibrosis by targeting glycogen synthase kinase-3β. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 109:154585. [PMID: 36610117 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2022.154585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2022] [Revised: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hastatoside is an iridoid glycoside extracted from the herb, Verbena officinalis, that exerts various pharmacological effects, including anti-inflammatory, sleep-promoting, and analgesic effects. However, only a few studies have reported the efficacy of hastatoside in liver fibrosis. Liver fibrosis is a pathophysiological process, and its persistence can seriously affect the quality of life and well-being of the patients. HYPOTHESIS/PURPOSE This study aimed to investigate the role of hastatoside on liver fibrosis and its possible underlying mechanisms. METHODS C57BL/6 J mice with carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced hepatic fibrosis were used as the in vivo models. Histological features of the liver were observed using Masson's trichrome and hematoxylin-eosin staining. Alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase levels and the hepatic fibrosis indices (type 3 procollagen, laminin, and hyaluronic acid) were measured using corresponding assay kits. LX-2 human hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) stimulated with the transforming growth factor β1 were used as the vitro models. Transfection of the glycogen synthase kinase (GSK)-3β small interfering RNA (siRNA) and β-catenin plasmids was also performed in vitro. Protein levels of GSK-3β, phospho-GSK-3β (Ser 9), α-smooth muscle actin, collagen type I alpha 1, c-Myc, cyclin D1, and β-catenin were determined via western blotting. Moreover, the p-GSK-3β:GSK-3β ratio was calculated to determine the GSK-3β activity. RESULTS Hastatoside prevented CCl4-induced liver injury and histological damage. It inhibited the upregulation of α-SMA and Col1α1 levels in a CCl4-induced mouse hepatic fibrosis model. In vitro, hastatoside inhibited the proliferation and activation of HSCs by decreasing the expression levels of cyclin D1 and c-Myc and the proportion of LX-2 cells activated in the G0/G1 phase. Molecular docking results showed that hastatoside bound to GSK-3β. Hastatoside significantly increased the GSK-3β activity and inhibited the downstream effector expression of β-catenin. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that hastatoside can bind to GSK-3β and promote its activity, while inhibiting the GSK-3β downstream effector expression of β-catenin, thereby inhibiting the activation and proliferation of HSCs, which further prevents the development of liver fibrosis. These results provide innovative insights into the underlying liver fibrosis. Moreover, hastatoside is a potential anti-fibrosis monomer that can potentially be used for the treatment of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changlin Du
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, China; Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine Formula Granule, Anhui Medical University, China
| | - Jiahui Dong
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, China; Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine Formula Granule, Anhui Medical University, China
| | - Qi Wang
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, China; Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine Formula Granule, Anhui Medical University, China
| | - Chuanting Xu
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, China; Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine Formula Granule, Anhui Medical University, China
| | - Shiqi Feng
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, China; Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine Formula Granule, Anhui Medical University, China
| | - Rui Feng
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, China; Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine Formula Granule, Anhui Medical University, China
| | - Xiongwen Lv
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, China; Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine Formula Granule, Anhui Medical University, China
| | - Jun Li
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine Formula Granule, Anhui Medical University, China
| | - Cheng Huang
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, China; Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine Formula Granule, Anhui Medical University, China.
| | - Taotao Ma
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, China; Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine Formula Granule, Anhui Medical University, China.
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Zivko C, Witt F, Koeberle A, Fuhrmann G, Luciani P. Formulating elafibranor and obeticholic acid with phospholipids decreases drug-induced association of SPARC to extracellular vesicles from LX-2 human hepatic stellate cells. Eur J Pharm Biopharm 2023; 182:32-40. [PMID: 36470521 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpb.2022.11.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Chronic hepatic diseases often compromise liver function and are directly responsible for up to two million yearly deaths world-wide. There are yet no treatment options to solve this global medical need. Experimental drugs elafibranor (Ela) and obeticholic acid (OA) appeared promising in numerous earlier studies, but they recently struggled to show significant benefits in patients. Little is known on the drugs' impact on hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), key players in liver fibrogenesis. We recently reported a beneficial effect of polyenylphosphatidylcholines (PPCs)-rich formulations in reverting fibrogenic features of HSCs, including differences in their extracellular vesicles (EVs). Here, we newly formulated Ela and OA in PPC liposomes and evaluated their performance on the LX-2 (human HSC) cell line through our rigorous methods of EV-analysis, now expanded to include lipidomics. We show that direct treatments with Ela and OA increase EV-associated secreted protein acidic and cysteine rich (SPARC), a matricellular protein overexpressed in fibrogenesis. However, our results suggest that this potentially damaging drugs' action to HSCs could be mitigated when delivering them with lipid-based formulations, most notably with a PPC-rich phospholipid inducing specific changes in the cellular and EV phospholipid composition. Thus, EV analysis substantially deepens evaluations of drug performances and delivery strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Zivko
- Institute of Pharmacy, Friedrich Schiller University of Jena, Jena, Germany; Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Finja Witt
- Michael Popp Institute, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Andreas Koeberle
- Michael Popp Institute, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Gregor Fuhrmann
- Helmholtz Institute for Pharmaceutical Research Saarland, Department of Pharmacy, Saarland University, Saarbrücken, Germany; Department of Biology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany.
| | - Paola Luciani
- Institute of Pharmacy, Friedrich Schiller University of Jena, Jena, Germany; Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.
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Choaib A, Issa E, El Choueiry F, Eldin JN, Shbaklo K, Alhajj M, Sawaya RT, Assi G, Nader M, Chatila R, Faour WH. SARS-CoV-2-mediated liver injury: pathophysiology and mechanisms of disease. Inflamm Res 2022; 72:301-312. [PMID: 36539655 PMCID: PMC9767399 DOI: 10.1007/s00011-022-01683-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND SARS-CoV-2-induced severe inflammatory response can be associated with severe medical consequences leading to multi-organ failure, including the liver. The main mechanism behind this assault is the aggressive cytokine storm that induces cytotoxicity in various organs. Of interest, hepatic stellate cells (HSC) respond acutely to liver injury through several molecular mechanisms, hence furthering the perpetuation of the cytokine storm and its resultant tissue damage. In addition, hepatocytes undergo apoptosis or necrosis resulting in the release of pro-inflammatory and pro-fibrogenic mediators that lead to chronic liver inflammation. AIMS The aim of this review is to summarize available data on SARS-CoV-2-induced liver inflammation in addition to evaluate the potential effect of anti-inflammatory drugs in attenuating SARS-CoV-2-induced liver inflammation. METHODS Thorough PubMed search was done to gather and summarize published data on SARS-CoV-2-induced liver inflammation. Additionally, various anti-inflammatory potential treatments were also documented. RESULTS Published data documented SARS-CoV-2 infection of liver tissues and is prominent in most liver cells. Also, histological analysis showed various features of tissues damage, e.g., hepatocellular necrosis, mitosis, cellular infiltration, and fatty degeneration in addition to microvesicular steatosis and inflammation. Finally, the efficacy of the different drugs used to treat SARS-CoV-2-induced liver injury, in particular the anti-inflammatory remedies, are likely to have some beneficial effect to treat liver injury in COVID-19. CONCLUSION SARS-CoV-2-induced liver inflammation is a serious condition, and drugs with potent anti-inflammatory effect can play a major role in preventing irreversible liver damage in COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Choaib
- Gilbert & Rose-Marie Chagoury School of Medicine, Lebanese American University, P.O. Box 36, Byblos, Lebanon
| | - Elio Issa
- Gilbert & Rose-Marie Chagoury School of Medicine, Lebanese American University, P.O. Box 36, Byblos, Lebanon
| | - Francesca El Choueiry
- Gilbert & Rose-Marie Chagoury School of Medicine, Lebanese American University, P.O. Box 36, Byblos, Lebanon
| | - Jade Nasser Eldin
- Gilbert & Rose-Marie Chagoury School of Medicine, Lebanese American University, P.O. Box 36, Byblos, Lebanon
| | - Khodor Shbaklo
- Gilbert & Rose-Marie Chagoury School of Medicine, Lebanese American University, P.O. Box 36, Byblos, Lebanon
| | - Maryline Alhajj
- Gilbert & Rose-Marie Chagoury School of Medicine, Lebanese American University, P.O. Box 36, Byblos, Lebanon
| | - Ramy Touma Sawaya
- Gilbert & Rose-Marie Chagoury School of Medicine, Lebanese American University, P.O. Box 36, Byblos, Lebanon
| | - Ghaith Assi
- Gilbert & Rose-Marie Chagoury School of Medicine, Lebanese American University, P.O. Box 36, Byblos, Lebanon
| | - Moni Nader
- Department of Physiology and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University of Science and Technology, P.O. Box 127788, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Center for Biotechnology, Khalifa University of Science and Technology, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rajaa Chatila
- Gilbert & Rose-Marie Chagoury School of Medicine, Lebanese American University, P.O. Box 36, Byblos, Lebanon
- Internal Medicine-Gastroenterology, Lebanese American University Medical Center-Rizk Hospital (LAUMC-RH), Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Wissam H Faour
- Gilbert & Rose-Marie Chagoury School of Medicine, Lebanese American University, P.O. Box 36, Byblos, Lebanon.
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[An update of understanding of the hepatic vascular system and new research strategies]. NAN FANG YI KE DA XUE XUE BAO = JOURNAL OF SOUTHERN MEDICAL UNIVERSITY 2022; 42:1907-1911. [PMID: 36651262 PMCID: PMC9878410 DOI: 10.12122/j.issn.1673-4254.2022.12.22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Although the portal vessels, liver sinusoids, and central vessels are known to contain microvessels with different structures and functions, their changes and roles in liver fibrogenesis have not been fully understood. Recent studies suggest that in mouse models of liver fibrogenesis, vascular changes can occur at a very early stage, and different liver vessels undergo different changes and play different roles, as shown by a decreased number of portal vessels, increased sinusoid capillarization and increased central vessels. The increase of portal vessels alleviates liver fibrosis, while the increase of central vessels and sinusoid capillarization aggravates liver fibrosis. A full understanding of the regulatory mechanisms of each of these vessels is vital for treatment of liver fibrosis. A combined regulation of different endothelial cell (EC) regulatory signaling pathways for vascular normalization may provide new strategies for liver fibrosis therapy. Further studies of the changes and functions of blood vessels in different liver diseases, liver development and regeneration may bring about important breakthroughs. This review summarizes the changes of 3 hepatic microvessels and their roles in liver fibrogenesis and propose the major directions of future studies in this field.
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135
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Nguyen G, Park SY, Do DV, Choi DH, Cho EH. Gemigliptin Alleviates Succinate-Induced Hepatic Stellate Cell Activation by Ameliorating Mitochondrial Dysfunction. Endocrinol Metab (Seoul) 2022; 37:918-928. [PMID: 36377343 PMCID: PMC9816499 DOI: 10.3803/enm.2022.1530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGRUOUND Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors (DPP-4Is) are used clinically as oral antidiabetic agents. Although DPP-4Is are known to ameliorate liver fibrosis, the protective mechanism of DPP-4Is in liver fibrosis remains obscure. In this study, gemigliptin was used to investigate the potential of DPP-4Is to alleviate the progression of liver fibrosis. METHODS To clarify the effects and mechanisms of gemigliptin, we conducted various experiments in LX-2 cells (immortalized human hepatic stellate cells [HSCs], the principal effectors of hepatic fibrogenesis), which were activated by succinate and exhibited elevated expression of α-smooth muscle actin, collagen type 1, and pro-inflammatory cytokines and increased cell proliferation. In vivo, we examined the effects and mechanisms of gemigliptin on a high-fat, high-cholesterol-induced mouse model of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). RESULTS Gemigliptin decreased the expression of fibrogenesis markers and reduced the abnormal proliferation of HSCs. In addition, gemigliptin reduced the succinate-induced production of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS), intracellular ROS, and mitochondrial fission in HSCs. Furthermore, in the mouse model of NASH-induced liver fibrosis, gemigliptin alleviated both liver fibrosis and mitochondrial dysfunction. CONCLUSION Gemigliptin protected against HSC activation and liver fibrosis by alleviating mitochondrial dysfunction and ROS production, indicating its potential as a strategy for preventing the development of liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giang Nguyen
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kangwon National University School of Medicine, Chuncheon, Korea
| | - So Young Park
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kangwon National University School of Medicine, Chuncheon, Korea
| | - Dinh Vinh Do
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kangwon National University School of Medicine, Chuncheon, Korea
| | - Dae-Hee Choi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kangwon National University School of Medicine, Chuncheon, Korea
| | - Eun-Hee Cho
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kangwon National University School of Medicine, Chuncheon, Korea
- Corresponding author: Eun-Hee Cho. Department of Internal Medicine, Kangwon National University School of Medicine, 1 Gangwondaehak-gil, Chuncheon 24341, Korea Tel: +82-33-258-9167, Fax: +82-33-258-2455, E-mail:
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136
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Feng R, Kan K, Sticht C, Li Y, Wang S, Liu H, Shao C, Munker S, Niess H, Wang S, Meyer C, Liebe R, Ebert MP, Dooley S, Ding H, Weng H. A hierarchical regulatory network ensures stable albumin transcription under various pathophysiological conditions. Hepatology 2022; 76:1673-1689. [PMID: 35257388 DOI: 10.1002/hep.32414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Revised: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS It remains unknown how patients with liver failure maintain essential albumin levels. Here, we delineate a hierarchical transcription regulatory network that ensures albumin expression under different disease conditions. APPROACH AND RESULTS We examined albumin levels in liver tissues and serum in 157 patients, including 84 with HCC, 38 decompensated cirrhosis, and 35 acute liver failure. Even in patients with liver failure, the average serum albumin concentrations were 30.55 g/L. In healthy subjects and patients with chronic liver diseases, albumin was expressed in hepatocytes. In patients with massive hepatocyte loss, albumin was expressed in liver progenitor cells (LPCs). The albumin gene (ALB) core promoter possesses a TATA box and nucleosome-free area, which allows constitutive RNA polymerase II binding and transcription initiation. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assays revealed that hepatocyte nuclear factor 4 alpha (HNF4α), CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein alpha (C/EBPα), and forkhead box A2 (FOXA2) bound to the ALB enhancer. Knockdown of either of these factors reduced albumin expression in hepatocytes. FOXA2 acts as a pioneer factor to support HNF4α and C/EBPα. In hepatocytes lacking HNF4α and C/EBPα expression, FOXA2 synergized with retinoic acid receptor (RAR) to maintain albumin transcription. RAR nuclear translocation was induced by retinoic acids released by activated HSCs. In patients with massive hepatocyte loss, LPCs expressed HNF4α and FOXA2. RNA sequencing and quantitative PCR analyses revealed that lack of HNF4α and C/EBPα in hepatocytes increased hedgehog ligand biosynthesis. Hedgehog up-regulates FOXA2 expression through glioblastoma family zinc finger 2 binding to the FOXA2 promoter in both hepatocytes and LPCs. CONCLUSIONS A hierarchical regulatory network formed by master and pioneer transcription factors ensures essential albumin expression in various pathophysiological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rilu Feng
- Department of Medicine IIMedical Faculty MannheimUniversity Medical Center MannheimHeidelberg UniversityMannheimGermany
| | - Kejia Kan
- Department of SurgeryMedical Faculty MannheimHeidelberg UniversityMannheimGermany
| | - Carsten Sticht
- NGS Core FacilityMedical Faculty MannheimHeidelberg UniversityMannheimGermany
| | - Yujia Li
- Department of Medicine IIMedical Faculty MannheimUniversity Medical Center MannheimHeidelberg UniversityMannheimGermany
| | - Shanshan Wang
- Department of Medicine IIMedical Faculty MannheimUniversity Medical Center MannheimHeidelberg UniversityMannheimGermany.,Beijing Institute of HepatologyBeijing You'an HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Hui Liu
- Department of PathologyBeijing You'an HospitalAffiliated with Capital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Chen Shao
- Department of PathologyBeijing You'an HospitalAffiliated with Capital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Stefan Munker
- Department of Medicine IIUniversity HospitalLudwig-Maximilians-University MunichMunichGermany.,Liver Centre MunichUniversity HospitalLudwig-Maximilians-UniversityMunichGermany
| | - Hanno Niess
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplant SurgeryLudwig-Maximilians-University MunichMunichGermany.,Biobank of the Department of GeneralVisceral and Transplant SurgeryLudwig-Maximilians-UniversityMunichGermany
| | - Sai Wang
- Department of Medicine IIMedical Faculty MannheimUniversity Medical Center MannheimHeidelberg UniversityMannheimGermany
| | - Christoph Meyer
- Department of Medicine IIMedical Faculty MannheimUniversity Medical Center MannheimHeidelberg UniversityMannheimGermany
| | - Roman Liebe
- Clinic of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectious DiseasesHeinrich Heine UniversityDüsseldorfGermany.,Department of Medicine IISaarland University Medical CenterSaarland UniversityHomburgGermany
| | - Matthias P Ebert
- Department of Medicine IIMedical Faculty MannheimUniversity Medical Center MannheimHeidelberg UniversityMannheimGermany.,Mannheim Institute for Innate Immunoscience (MI3), Medical Faculty MannheimHeidelberg UniversityMannheimGermany.,Clinical Cooperation Unit Healthy MetabolismCenter of Preventive Medicine and Digital HealthMedical Faculty MannheimHeidelberg UniversityMannheimGermany
| | - Steven Dooley
- Department of Medicine IIMedical Faculty MannheimUniversity Medical Center MannheimHeidelberg UniversityMannheimGermany
| | - Huiguo Ding
- Department of Gastroenterology and HepatologyBeijing You'an HospitalAffiliated with Capital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Honglei Weng
- Department of Medicine IIMedical Faculty MannheimUniversity Medical Center MannheimHeidelberg UniversityMannheimGermany
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137
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Mitten EK, Baffy G. Mechanotransduction in the pathogenesis of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. J Hepatol 2022; 77:1642-1656. [PMID: 36063966 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2022.08.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2022] [Revised: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Mechanobiology is a domain of interdisciplinary research that aims to explore the impact of physical force, applied externally or internally, on cell and tissue function, including development, growth, and differentiation. Mechanotransduction is a term that describes how cells sense physical forces (such as compression, stretch, and shear stress), convert them into biochemical signals, and mount adaptive responses integrated by the nucleus. There is accumulating evidence that mechanical forces extensively inform the biological behaviour of liver cells in health and disease. Recent research has elucidated many cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in this process including the pleiotropic control and diverse effects of the paralogous transcription co-activators YAP/TAZ, which play a prominent role in mechanotransduction. The liver sinusoids represent a unique microenvironment in which cells are exposed to mechanical cues originating in the cytoskeleton and at interfaces with adjacent cells, the extracellular matrix, and vascular or interstitial fluids. In non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), hepatocellular lipid accumulation and ballooning, activation of inflammatory responses, dysfunction of liver sinusoidal endothelial cells, and transdifferentiation of hepatic stellate cells into a pro-contractile and pro-fibrotic phenotype have been associated with aberrant cycles of mechanosensing and mechanoresponses. The downstream consequences of disrupted mechanical homeostasis likely contribute to the progression of NAFLD and promote the development of portal hypertension, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Identification of molecular targets involved in pathogenic mechanotransduction will allow for the development of novel strategies to prevent the progression of liver disease in NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilie K Mitten
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endoscopy, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - György Baffy
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endoscopy, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Section of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston MA, USA.
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138
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Liu Q, Lei X, Cao Z, Zhang J, Yan L, Fu J, Tong Q, Qin W, Shao Y, Liu C, Liu Z, Wang Z, Chu Y, Xu G, Liu S, Wen X, Yamamoto H, Mori M, Liang XM, Xu X. TRPM8 deficiency attenuates liver fibrosis through S100A9-HNF4α signaling. Cell Biosci 2022; 12:58. [PMID: 35525986 PMCID: PMC9080211 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-022-00789-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Liver fibrosis represent a major global health care burden. Data emerging from recent advances suggest TRPM8, a member of the transient receptor potential (TRP) family of ion channels, plays an essential role in various chronic inflammatory diseases. However, its role in liver fibrosis remains unknown. Herein, we assessed the potential effect of TRPM8 in liver fibrosis. Methods The effect of TRPM8 was evaluated using specimens obtained from classic murine models of liver fibrosis, namely wild-type (WT) and TRPM8−/− (KO) fibrotic mice after carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) or bile duct ligation (BDL) treatment. The role of TRPM8 was systematically evaluated using specimens obtained from the aforementioned animal models after various in vivo and in vitro experiments. Results Clinicopathological analysis showed that TRPM8 expression was upregulated in tissue samples from cirrhosis patients and fibrotic mice. TRPM8 deficiency not only attenuated inflammation and fibrosis progression in mice but also helped to alleviate symptoms of cholangiopathies. Moreover, reduction in S100A9 and increase in HNF4α expressions were observed in liver of CCl4- and BDL- treated TRPM8−/− mice. A strong regulatory linkage between S100A9 and HNF4α was also noticed in L02 cells that underwent siRNA-mediated S100A9 knockdown and S100A9 overexpressing plasmid transfection. Lastly, the alleviative effect of a selective TRPM8 antagonist was confirmed in vivo. Conclusions These findings suggest TRPM8 deficiency may exert protective effects against inflammation, cholangiopathies, and fibrosis through S100A9-HNF4α signaling. M8-B might be a promising therapeutic candidate for liver fibrosis. Graphical Abstract ![]()
Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13578-022-00789-4.
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Yan L, Zhang T, Wang K, Chen Z, Yang Y, Shan B, Sun Q, Zhang M, Zhang Y, Zhong Y, Liu N, Gu J, Xu D. SENP1 prevents steatohepatitis by suppressing RIPK1-driven apoptosis and inflammation. Nat Commun 2022; 13:7153. [PMID: 36414671 PMCID: PMC9681887 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-34993-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Activation of RIPK1-driven cell death and inflammation play important roles in the progression of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). However, the mechanism underlying RIPK1 activation in NASH remains unclear. Here we identified SENP1, a SUMO-specific protease, as a key endogenous inhibitor of RIPK1. SENP1 is progressively reduced in proportion to NASH severity in patients. Hepatocyte-specific SENP1-knockout mice develop spontaneous NASH-related phenotypes in a RIPK1 kinase-dependent manner. We demonstrate that SENP1 deficiency sensitizes cells to RIPK1 kinase-dependent apoptosis by promoting RIPK1 activation following TNFα stimulation. Mechanistically, SENP1 deSUMOylates RIPK1 in TNF-R1 signaling complex (TNF-RSC), keeping RIPK1 in check. Loss of SENP1 leads to SUMOylation of RIPK1, which re-orchestrates TNF-RSC and modulates the ubiquitination patterns and activity of RIPK1. Notably, genetic inhibition of RIPK1 effectively reverses disease progression in hepatocyte-specific SENP1-knockout male mice with high-fat-diet-induced nonalcoholic fatty liver. We propose that deSUMOylation of RIPK1 by SENP1 provides a pathophysiologically relevant cell death-restricting checkpoint that modulates RIPK1 activation in the pathogenesis of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingjie Yan
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309Interdisciplinary Research Center on Biology and Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201210 China ,grid.410726.60000 0004 1797 8419University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049 China
| | - Tao Zhang
- grid.38142.3c000000041936754XDepartment of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215 USA
| | - Kai Wang
- grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XDepartment of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou First People’s Hospital Affiliated Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006 China ,grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XInstitute of Organ Transplantation, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003 China
| | - Zezhao Chen
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309Interdisciplinary Research Center on Biology and Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201210 China ,grid.410726.60000 0004 1797 8419University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049 China
| | - Yuanxin Yang
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309Interdisciplinary Research Center on Biology and Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201210 China ,grid.410726.60000 0004 1797 8419University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049 China
| | - Bing Shan
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309Interdisciplinary Research Center on Biology and Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201210 China
| | - Qi Sun
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309Interdisciplinary Research Center on Biology and Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201210 China
| | - Mengmeng Zhang
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309Interdisciplinary Research Center on Biology and Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201210 China
| | - Yichi Zhang
- grid.412987.10000 0004 0630 1330Department of Transplantation, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092 China
| | - Yedan Zhong
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309Interdisciplinary Research Center on Biology and Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201210 China
| | - Nan Liu
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309Interdisciplinary Research Center on Biology and Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201210 China ,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Aging Studies, Shanghai, 201210 China
| | - Jinyang Gu
- grid.412987.10000 0004 0630 1330Department of Transplantation, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092 China ,grid.33199.310000 0004 0368 7223Center for Liver Transplantation, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022 China
| | - Daichao Xu
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309Interdisciplinary Research Center on Biology and Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201210 China ,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Aging Studies, Shanghai, 201210 China
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Li B, Zhou J, Luo Y, Tao K, Zhang L, Zhao Y, Lin Y, Zeng X, Yu H. Suppressing circ_0008494 inhibits HSCs activation by regulating the miR-185-3p/Col1a1 axis. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:1050093. [PMID: 36467040 PMCID: PMC9713816 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1050093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Hepatic fibrosis (HF) is characterized by activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and extensive deposition of extracellular matrix components, especially collagens. However, effective antifibrotic therapies are still lacking. Recently, circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been identified as novel regulators of HF. Methods: circRNAs profile was screened by RNA sequencing and the location of circ_0008494 was confirmed by fluorescence in situ hybridization assay in human HF tissues. Bioinformatics analysis was used for result prediction and dual-luciferase reporter, together with AGO-RIP and biotin-coupled miRNA capture assays, were used to determine miR-185-3p/collagen type I alpha 1 chain (Col1a1) as the target of circ_0008494. A stable circ_0008494-interfering human HSCs cell line was constructed and used to determine the regulatory mechanism of circ_0008494/miR-185-3p/Col1a1 axis. Results: circ_0008494 was abundantly and significantly over-expressed in human HF tissues and located at the cytoplasm of HSCs. Together, dual-luciferase reporter, AGO-RIP and biotin-coupled miRNA capture assays confirmed that circ_0008494 acted as a sponge of miR-185-3p. Cell functional experiments and rescue assays demonstrated suppressing circ_0008494 could inhibit activation, proliferation, migration of HSCs and promote their apoptosis through miR-185-3p. In particular, the HF indicator, Col1a1, was validated as the direct target of miR-185-3p and the suppression of circ_0008494 inhibited the expression of Col1a1 by releasing miR-185-3p. Conclusion: Knocking down circ_0008494 inhibited HSCs activation through the miR-185-3p/Col1a1 axis. circ_0008494 could be a promising treatment target for HF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Binbin Li
- Department of Pathology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiaming Zhou
- Department of Pathology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Pathology, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Yuanyuan Luo
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Kegong Tao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Lifen Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ying Zhao
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Second Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yong Lin
- Department of Gastroenterology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xin Zeng
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hongyu Yu
- Department of Pathology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
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141
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Creeden JF, Kipp ZA, Xu M, Flight RM, Moseley HNB, Martinez GJ, Lee W, Alganem K, Imami AS, McMullen MR, Roychowdhury S, Nawabi AM, Hipp JA, Softic S, Weinman SA, McCullumsmith R, Nagy LE, Hinds TD. Hepatic kinome atlas: An in-depth identification of kinase pathways in liver fibrosis of humans and rodents. Hepatology 2022; 76:1376-1388. [PMID: 35313030 PMCID: PMC9489820 DOI: 10.1002/hep.32467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Resolution of pathways that converge to induce deleterious effects in hepatic diseases, such as in the later stages, have potential antifibrotic effects that may improve outcomes. We aimed to explore whether humans and rodents display similar fibrotic signaling networks. APPROACH AND RESULTS We assiduously mapped kinase pathways using 340 substrate targets, upstream bioinformatic analysis of kinase pathways, and over 2000 random sampling iterations using the PamGene PamStation kinome microarray chip technology. Using this technology, we characterized a large number of kinases with altered activity in liver fibrosis of both species. Gene expression and immunostaining analyses validated many of these kinases as bona fide signaling events. Surprisingly, the insulin receptor emerged as a considerable protein tyrosine kinase that is hyperactive in fibrotic liver disease in humans and rodents. Discoidin domain receptor tyrosine kinase, activated by collagen that increases during fibrosis, was another hyperactive protein tyrosine kinase in humans and rodents with fibrosis. The serine/threonine kinases found to be the most active in fibrosis were dystrophy type 1 protein kinase and members of the protein kinase family of kinases. We compared the fibrotic events over four models: humans with cirrhosis and three murine models with differing levels of fibrosis, including two models of fatty liver disease with emerging fibrosis. The data demonstrate a high concordance between human and rodent hepatic kinome signaling that focalizes, as shown by our network analysis of detrimental pathways. CONCLUSIONS Our findings establish a comprehensive kinase atlas for liver fibrosis, which identifies analogous signaling events conserved among humans and rodents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin F. Creeden
- Department of NeurosciencesUniversity of Toledo College of Medicine and Life SciencesToledoOhioUSA
| | - Zachary A. Kipp
- Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional SciencesUniversity of Kentucky College of MedicineLexingtonKentuckyUSA
| | - Mei Xu
- Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional SciencesUniversity of Kentucky College of MedicineLexingtonKentuckyUSA
| | - Robert M. Flight
- Department of Molecular & Cellular BiochemistryUniversity of KentuckyLexingtonKentuckyUSA
- Markey Cancer CenterUniversity of KentuckyLexingtonKentuckyUSA
- Resource Center for Stable Isotope Resolved MetabolomicsUniversity of KentuckyLexingtonKentuckyUSA
| | - Hunter N. B. Moseley
- Department of Molecular & Cellular BiochemistryUniversity of KentuckyLexingtonKentuckyUSA
- Markey Cancer CenterUniversity of KentuckyLexingtonKentuckyUSA
- Resource Center for Stable Isotope Resolved MetabolomicsUniversity of KentuckyLexingtonKentuckyUSA
- Institute for Biomedical InformaticsUniversity of KentuckyLexingtonKentuckyUSA
- Center for Clinical and Translational ScienceUniversity of KentuckyLexingtonKentuckyUSA
| | - Genesee J. Martinez
- Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional SciencesUniversity of Kentucky College of MedicineLexingtonKentuckyUSA
| | - Wang‐Hsin Lee
- Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional SciencesUniversity of Kentucky College of MedicineLexingtonKentuckyUSA
| | - Khaled Alganem
- Department of NeurosciencesUniversity of Toledo College of Medicine and Life SciencesToledoOhioUSA
| | - Ali S. Imami
- Department of NeurosciencesUniversity of Toledo College of Medicine and Life SciencesToledoOhioUSA
| | - Megan R. McMullen
- Department of Inflammation and ImmunityCleveland ClinicClevelandOhioUSA
| | | | - Atta M. Nawabi
- Division of Transplant and HepatobiliaryDepartment of SurgeryThe University of Kansas Medical CenterKansas CityKansasUSA
| | | | - Samir Softic
- Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional SciencesUniversity of Kentucky College of MedicineLexingtonKentuckyUSA
- Department of PediatricsUniversity of KentuckyLexingtonKentuckyUSA
| | - Steven A. Weinman
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver CenterUniversity of Kansas Medical CenterKansas CityKansasUSA
| | - Robert McCullumsmith
- Department of NeurosciencesUniversity of Toledo College of Medicine and Life SciencesToledoOhioUSA
- Neurosciences InstituteProMedicaToledoOhioUSA
| | - Laura E. Nagy
- Department of Inflammation and ImmunityCleveland ClinicClevelandOhioUSA
- Department of Gastroenterology and HepatologyCenter for Liver Disease ResearchCleveland ClinicClevelandOhioUSA
- Department of Molecular MedicineCase Western Reserve UniversityClevelandOhioUSA
| | - Terry D. Hinds
- Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional SciencesUniversity of Kentucky College of MedicineLexingtonKentuckyUSA
- Markey Cancer CenterUniversity of KentuckyLexingtonKentuckyUSA
- Barnstable Brown Diabetes CenterUniversity of Kentucky College of MedicineLexingtonKentuckyUSA
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Zhou Y, Tian N, Li P, He Y, Tong L, Xie W. The correlation between neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: a cross-sectional study. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2022; 34:1158-1164. [PMID: 36170685 PMCID: PMC9521580 DOI: 10.1097/meg.0000000000002439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study is to investigate the correlation between neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). METHODS All subjects underwent medical check-ups, which included the measurement of basic clinical, biochemical tests and imaging tests. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression models and piece-wise linear regression were used to assess the relationship between NLR and PLR with NAFLD. RESULTS All participants were divided into two groups: the Non-NAFLD group and the NAFLD group. Univariate analysis model indicated PLR was negatively correlated with NAFLD (P < 0.001) and NLR was not significantly associated with NAFLD (P > 0.05). Multiple logistic regression showed that no correlation between NLR and PLR with NAFLD after adjusting all covariates (P > 0.05). Interestingly, a nonlinear association was detected between NLR and PLR with NAFLD by piece-wise linear regression adjusting for all confounding factors. The inflection points of NLR and PLR were 1.23 and 42.29, respectively. On the left side of the inflection point (NLR < 1.23), a positive correlation was detected between NLR and NAFLD (β = 2.35, 95% CI: 1.20~4.61, P = 0.013). And PLR was found to be negatively associated with NAFLD on the right side of the inflection point (β = 0.99, 95% CI: 0.98~0.99, P < 0.001). CONCLUSION This study demonstrated that the relationship between NLR and PLR with NAFLD was nonlinear after adjusting for potential confounding factors. The result suggested that PLR ≥ 42.29 might be a protective factor of NAFLD, while NLR < 1.23 might be a risk factor of NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuge Zhou
- Affiliated Guangdong Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Foshan City, Guangdong Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ning Tian
- Preventive Healthcare Center, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Foshan City, Guangdong Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Peiling Li
- Affiliated Guangdong Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Foshan City, Guangdong Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yanting He
- Affiliated Guangdong Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Foshan City, Guangdong Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lijun Tong
- Preventive Healthcare Center, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Foshan City, Guangdong Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Weining Xie
- Department of Scientific Research, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Foshan City, Guangdong Province, People’s Republic of China
- The Second Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou City, Guangdong Province, People’s Republic of China
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143
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Hong J, Kim Y. Fatty Liver/Adipose Tissue Dual-Targeting Nanoparticles with Heme Oxygenase-1 Inducer for Amelioration of Obesity, Obesity-Induced Type 2 Diabetes, and Steatohepatitis. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2022; 9:e2203286. [PMID: 36209391 PMCID: PMC9685446 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202203286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Revised: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Persistent uptake of high-calorie diets induces the storage of excessive lipid in visceral adipose tissue. Lipids secreted from obese adipose tissue are accumulated in peripheral tissues such as the liver, pancreas, and muscle, and impair insulin sensitivity causing type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Furthermore, the accumulation of inflammatory cytokines and lipids in the liver induces apoptosis and fibrogenesis, and ultimately causes nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). To modulate obese tissue environments, it is challenged to selectively deliver inducers of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) to adipose tissue with the aid of a prohibitin targeting drug delivery system. Prohibitin binding peptide (PBP), an oligopeptide targeting prohibitin rich in adipose tissue, is conjugated on the surface of Hemin- or CoPP-loaded poly(lactide-co-glycolide) nanoparticles (PBP-NPs). PBP-NPs efficiently differentiate lipid storing white adipocytes into energy-generating brown adipocytes in T2DM and NASH models. In addition, PBP-NPs are found to target prohibitin overexpressed fatty liver in the NASH model and inhibit hepatic uptake of circulating lipids. Furthermore, PBP-NPs switch phenotypes of inflammatory macrophages in damaged organs and lower inflammation. Taken together, dual-targeted induction of HO-1 in fatty adipose and liver tissues is proven to be a promising therapeutic strategy to ameliorate obesity, insulin resistance, and steatohepatitis by lowering lipids and cytokines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juhyeong Hong
- Department of BioengineeringInstitute for Bioengineering and Biopharmaceutical Research Hanyang UniversitySeoul04763South Korea
- Education and Research Group for Biopharmaceutical Innovation LeaderHanyang UniversitySeoul04763South Korea
| | - Yong‐Hee Kim
- Department of BioengineeringInstitute for Bioengineering and Biopharmaceutical Research Hanyang UniversitySeoul04763South Korea
- Education and Research Group for Biopharmaceutical Innovation LeaderHanyang UniversitySeoul04763South Korea
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144
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Tracking matricellular protein SPARC in extracellular vesicles as a non-destructive method to evaluate lipid-based antifibrotic treatments. Commun Biol 2022; 5:1155. [PMID: 36310239 PMCID: PMC9618575 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-022-04123-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Uncovering the complex cellular mechanisms underlying hepatic fibrogenesis could expedite the development of effective treatments and noninvasive diagnosis for liver fibrosis. The biochemical complexity of extracellular vesicles (EVs) and their role in intercellular communication make them an attractive tool to look for biomarkers as potential alternative to liver biopsies. We developed a solid set of methods to isolate and characterize EVs from differently treated human hepatic stellate cell (HSC) line LX-2, and we investigated their biological effect onto naïve LX-2, proving that EVs do play an active role in fibrogenesis. We mined our proteomic data for EV-associated proteins whose expression correlated with HSC treatment, choosing the matricellular protein SPARC as proof-of-concept for the feasibility of fluorescence nanoparticle-tracking analysis to determine an EV-based HSCs’ fibrogenic phenotype. We thus used EVs to directly evaluate the efficacy of treatment with S80, a polyenylphosphatidylcholines-rich lipid, finding that S80 reduces the relative presence of SPARC-positive EVs. Here we correlated the cellular response to lipid-based antifibrotic treatment to the relative presence of a candidate protein marker associated with the released EVs. Along with providing insights into polyenylphosphatidylcholines treatments, our findings pave the way for precise and less invasive diagnostic analyses of hepatic fibrogenesis. A method is developed to isolate and characterize extracellular vesicles (EVs) from human hepatic stellate cells and proteomics reveals that the matricellular protein SPARC may be used as an EV marker after lipid-based antifibrotic treatment.
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145
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Dev S, Muchenditsi A, Gottlieb A, Deme P, Murphy S, Gabrielson KL, Dong Y, Hughes R, Haughey NJ, Hamilton JP, Lutsenko S. Oxysterol misbalance critically contributes to Wilson disease pathogenesis. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eadc9022. [PMID: 36260680 PMCID: PMC9581482 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adc9022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
Wilson disease (WD) is a metabolic disorder caused by inactivation of the copper-transporting ATPase 2 (ATP7B) and copper (Cu) overload in tissues. Excess Cu causes oxidative stress and pathologic changes with poorly understood mechanistic connections. In Atp7b-/- mice with established liver disease, Cu overload activates the stress-sensitive transcription factor Nrf2 (nuclear factor erythroid-derived 2-like 2). Nrf2 targets, especially sulfotransferase 1e1 (Sult1e1), are strongly induced and cause elevation of sulfated sterols, whereas oxysterols are decreased. This sterol misbalance results in inhibition of the liver X receptor (LXR) and up-regulation of LXR targets associated with inflammatory responses. Pharmacological inhibition of Sult1e1 partially reverses oxysterol misbalance and LXR inhibition. Contribution of this pathway to advanced hepatic WD was demonstrated by treating mice with an LXR agonist. Treatment decreased inflammation by reducing expression of proinflammatory molecules, diminished fibrosis by down-regulating the noncanonical transforming growth factor-β signaling pathway, and improved liver morphology and function. Thus, the identified pathway is an important driver of WD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Som Dev
- Department of Physiology, Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, 725 North Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Abigael Muchenditsi
- Department of Physiology, Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, 725 North Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Aline Gottlieb
- Department of Physiology, Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, 725 North Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Pragney Deme
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, 600 North Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Sean Murphy
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, 720 Rutland Ave, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Kathleen L. Gabrielson
- Department of Molecular and Comparative Pathobiology, Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, 733 North Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Yixuan Dong
- Department of Physiology, Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, 725 North Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Robert Hughes
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, 733 North Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Norman J. Haughey
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, 600 North Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - James P. Hamilton
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, 733 North Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Corresponding author. (S.L.); (J.P.H.)
| | - Svetlana Lutsenko
- Department of Physiology, Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, 725 North Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, 733 North Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Corresponding author. (S.L.); (J.P.H.)
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Mahmoudi A, Atkin SL, Jamialahmadi T, Banach M, Sahebkar A. Effect of Curcumin on Attenuation of Liver Cirrhosis via Genes/Proteins and Pathways: A System Pharmacology Study. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14204344. [PMID: 36297027 PMCID: PMC9609422 DOI: 10.3390/nu14204344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Revised: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Liver cirrhosis is a life-threatening seqsuel of many chronic liver disorders of varying etiologies. In this study, we investigated protein targets of curcumin in liver cirrhosis based on a bioinformatics approach. Methods: Gene/protein associations with curcumin and liver cirrhosis were probed in drug−gene and gene−diseases databases including STITCH/DGIdb/DisGeNET/OMIM/DISEASES/CTD/Pharos and SwissTargetPrediction. Critical clustering groups (MCODE), hub candidates and critical hub genes in liver cirrhosis were identified, and connections between curcumin and liver cirrhosis-related genes were analyzed via Venn diagram. Interaction of hub genes with curcumin by molecular docking using PyRx-virtual screening tools was performed. Results: MCODE analysis indicated three MCODEs; the cluster (MCODE 1) comprised 79 nodes and 881 edges (score: 22.59). Curcumin database interactions recognized 318 protein targets. Liver cirrhosis genes and curcumin protein targets analysis demonstrated 96 shared proteins, suggesting that curcumin may influence 20 candidate and 13 hub genes, covering 81% of liver cirrhosis critical genes and proteins. Thirteen shared proteins affected oxidative stress regulation, RNA, telomerase activity, cell proliferation, and cell death. Molecular docking analysis showed the affinity of curcumin binding hub genes (Binding affinity: ΔG < −4.9 kcal/mol). Conclusions: Curcumin impacted on several critical liver cirrhosis genes mainly involved in extracellular matrix communication, focal adhesion, and the response to oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Mahmoudi
- Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Nanotechnology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Stephen L. Atkin
- School of Postgraduate Studies and Research, RCSI Medical University of Bahrain, Busaiteen, Bahrain
| | - Tannaz Jamialahmadi
- Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Surgical Oncology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Maciej Banach
- Department of Preventive Cardiology and Lipidology, Medical University of Lodz (MUL), 93-338 Lodz, Poland
- Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Zielona Gora, 65-417 Zielona Gora, Poland
- Correspondence: (M.B.); or (A.S.); Tel.: +98-513-180-1239 (A.S.); Fax: +98-513-800-2287 (A.S.)
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Correspondence: (M.B.); or (A.S.); Tel.: +98-513-180-1239 (A.S.); Fax: +98-513-800-2287 (A.S.)
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Potential Therapeutic Implication of Herbal Medicine in Mitochondria-Mediated Oxidative Stress-Related Liver Diseases. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11102041. [PMID: 36290765 PMCID: PMC9598588 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11102041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Revised: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Mitochondria are double-membrane organelles that play a role in ATP synthesis, calcium homeostasis, oxidation-reduction status, apoptosis, and inflammation. Several human disorders have been linked to mitochondrial dysfunction. It has been found that traditional therapeutic herbs are effective on alcoholic liver disease (ALD) and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) which are leading causes of liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. The generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in response to oxidative stress is caused by mitochondrial dysfunction and is considered critical for treatment. The role of oxidative stress, lipid toxicity, and inflammation in NAFLD are well known. NAFLD is a chronic liver disease that commonly progresses to cirrhosis and chronic liver disease, and people with obesity, insulin resistance, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and hypertension are at a higher risk of developing NAFLD. NAFLD is associated with a number of pathological factors, including insulin resistance, lipid metabolic dysfunction, oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, and fibrosis. As a result, the improvement in steatosis and inflammation is enough to entice researchers to look into liver disease treatment. However, antioxidant treatment has not been very effective for liver disease. Additionally, it has been suggested that the beneficial effects of herbal medicines on immunity and inflammation are governed by various mechanisms for lipid metabolism and inflammation control. This review provided a summary of research on herbal medicines for the therapeutic implementation of mitochondria-mediated ROS production in liver disease as well as clinical applications through herbal medicine. In addition, the pathophysiology of common liver disorders such as ALD and NAFLD would be investigated in the role that mitochondria play in the process to open new therapeutic avenues in the management of patients with liver disease.
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148
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Oh HT, Heo W, Yoo GD, Kim KM, Hwang JH, Hwang ES, Ko J, Ko YG, Hong JH. CD133-Src-TAZ signaling stimulates ductal fibrosis following DDC diet-induced liver injury. J Cell Physiol 2022; 237:4504-4516. [PMID: 36250997 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Revised: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Chronic liver injury follows inflammation and liver fibrosis; however, the molecular mechanism underlying fibrosis has not been fully elucidated. In this study, the role of ductal WW domain-containing transcription regulator 1 (WWTR1)/transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ) was investigated after liver injury. Ductal TAZ-knockout (DKO) mice showed decreased liver fibrosis following a Diethyl 1,4-dihydro-2,4,6-trimethyl-3,5-pyridinedicarboxylate (DDC) diet compared to wild-type (WT) mice, as evidenced by decreased expression levels of fibrosis inducers, including connective tissue growth factor (Ctgf)/cellular communication network factor 2 (CCN2), cysteine-rich angiogenic inducer 61 (Cyr61/CCN1), and transforming growth factor beta 1 (Tgfb1), in DKO mice. Similarly, TAZ-knockout (KO) cholangiocyte organoids showed decreased expression of fibrosis inducers. Additionally, the culture supernatant of TAZ-KO cholangiocyte organoids decreased the fibrogenic gene expression in liver stellate cells. Further studies revealed that prominin 1 (PROM1/CD133) stimulated TAZ for fibrosis. After the administration of DDC diet, fibrosis was decreased in CD133-KO (CD133-KO) mice compared to that in WT mice. Similarly, CD133-KO cholangiocyte organoids showed decreased Ctgf, Cyr61, and Tgfb1 expression levels compared to WT cholangiocyte organoids. Mechanistically, CD133 stabilized TAZ via Src activation. Inhibition of Src decreased TAZ levels. Similarly, CD133-knockdown HCT116 cells showed decreased TAZ levels, but reintroduction of active Src recovered the TAZ levels. Taken together, our results suggest that TAZ facilitates liver fibrosis after a DDC diet via the CD133-Src-TAZ axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ho Taek Oh
- Division of Life Sciences, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Woong Heo
- Division of Life Sciences, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Gi Don Yoo
- Division of Life Sciences, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung Min Kim
- Division of Life Sciences, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jun-Ha Hwang
- Division of Life Sciences, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun Sook Hwang
- College of Pharmacy, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jesang Ko
- Division of Life Sciences, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Gyu Ko
- Division of Life Sciences, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong-Ho Hong
- Division of Life Sciences, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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149
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Femtosecond laser attenuates oxidative stress, inflammation, and liver fibrosis in rats: Possible role of PPARγ and Nrf2/HO-1 signaling. Life Sci 2022; 307:120877. [PMID: 35963297 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2022.120877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Revised: 07/31/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is the excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins that occurs in chronic liver injury. Inflammation and oxidative stress play a key role in fibrogenesis which can develop into cirrhosis and carcinoma. Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) has promising therapeutic effects against fibrogenesis; however, the specific underlying mechanism is not fully elucidated. We investigated the potential of LLLT to attenuate carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver fibrosis in rats, focusing on oxidative injury, inflammatory response, and the possible role of PPARγ and Nrf2/HO-1 signaling. Rats were given CCl4 and exposed to LLLT twice/week for 6 weeks and blood and liver samples were collected for analysis. CCl4 caused liver injury and fibrosis manifested by hepatocyte injury, steatosis, inflammatory cell infiltration, and accumulation of collagen, elevated serum transaminases and bilirubin, and decreased albumin. ROS, MDA, NO, NF-κB p65, TNF-α, iNOS, TGF-β1, and IL-6 were increased in the liver of CCl4-administered rats. Exposure to LLLT ameliorated histopathological alterations, collagen deposition, and liver function markers, and downregulated hepatic α-SMA, collagen 1A1, and collagen 3A1. In Addition, LLLT decreased ROS, MDA, NO, NF-κB p65, TGF-β1, and pro-inflammatory mediators, and enhanced antioxidant defenses. These effects were associated with upregulated PPARγ, Nrf2, and HO-1, both gene and protein expression. In conclusion, LLLT attenuated liver fibrosis by suppressing ECM production and deposition, oxidative injury and inflammation, and upregulating PPARγ and Nrf2/HO-1 signaling.
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Zhou XD, Qu YW, Wang L, Jia FH, Chen P, Wang YP, Liu HF. Identification of potential hub genes of gastric cancer. Medicine (Baltimore) 2022; 101:e30741. [PMID: 36254003 PMCID: PMC9575828 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000030741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gastric cancer (GC) is a malignant tumor originated from gastric mucosa epithelium. It is the third leading cause of cancer mortality in China. The early symptoms are not obvious. When it is discovered, it has developed to the advanced stage, and the prognosis is poor. In order to screen for potential genes for GC development, this study obtained GSE118916 and GSE109476 from the gene expression omnibus (GEO) database for bioinformatics analysis. METHODS First, GEO2R was used to identify differentially expressed genes (DEG) and the functional annotation of DEGs was performed by gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis. The Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes (STRING) tool was used to construct protein-protein interaction (PPI) network and the most important modules and hub genes were mined. Real time quantitative polymerase chain reaction assay was performed to verify the expression level of hub genes. RESULTS A total of 139 DEGs were identified. The functional changes of DEGs are mainly concentrated in the cytoskeleton, extracellular matrix and collagen synthesis. Eleven genes were identified as core genes. Bioinformatics analysis shows that the core genes are mainly enriched in many processes related to cell adhesion and collagen. CONCLUSION In summary, the DEGs and hub genes found in this study may be potential diagnostic and therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xu-Dong Zhou
- The Clinical College of the General Hospital of Chinese People's Armed Police Forces, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, P.R. China
| | - Ya-Wei Qu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Third Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Li Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Huamei Hospital of China National University of Science and Technology, Ningbo, P.R. China
| | - Fu-Hua Jia
- Department of Gastroenterology, Huamei Hospital of China National University of Science and Technology, Ningbo, P.R. China
| | - Peng Chen
- Department of Ultrasound, Graduate School of Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, P.R. China
| | - Yin-Pu Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Baoji Hospital Affiliated to Xi’an Jiaotong University, Baoji, P.R. China
| | - Hai-Feng Liu
- The Clinical College of the General Hospital of Chinese People's Armed Police Forces, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, P.R. China
- *Correspondence: Hai-Feng Liu, The Clinical College of the General Hospital of Chinese People's Armed Police Forces, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, P.R. China (e-mail: )
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