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Li X, Zhou J, Ling Y, Tan Y, Zhang J, Wang X, Li F, Jiang S, Zhang S, Yu K, Han Y. Matrine induces autophagic cell death by triggering ROS/AMPK/mTOR axis and apoptosis in multiple myeloma. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 175:116738. [PMID: 38759291 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite significant advancements in multiple myeloma (MM) treatment in recent years, most patients will eventually develop resistance or experience relapse. Matrine, a primary active compound of traditional Chinese medicinal herb Sophora flavescens Ait, has been found to have anti-tumor properties in various types of malignant tumors. Whether autophagy plays a crucial role in the anti-MM effect of matrine remain unknown. Herein, we found that matrine could trigger apoptosis and cell cycle arrest, and meanwhile induce autophagy in MM cells in vitro. We further ascertained the role of autophagy by using ATG5 siRNA or the autophagy inhibitor spautin-1, which partially reversed matrine's inhibitory effect on MM cells. Conversely, the combination of matrine with the autophagy inducer rapamycin enhanced their anti-tumor activity. These findings suggest that autophagy induced by matrine can lead to cell death in MM cells. Further mechanism investigation revealed that matrine treatment increased the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and AMPKα1 phosphorylation and decreased the phosphorylation of mTOR in MM cells. Additionally, co-treatment with AMPKα1 siRNA or the ROS scavenger N-acetyl-1-cysteine weakened the increase in autophagy that was induced by matrine. Finally, we demonstrated a synergistic inhibitory effect of matrine and rapamycin against MM in a xenograft mouse model. Collectively, our findings provided novel insights into the anti-MM efficacy of matrine and suggest that matrine induces autophagy by triggering ROS/AMPK/mTOR axis in MM cells, and combinatorial treatment of matrine and rapamycin may be a promising therapeutic strategy against MM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Li
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; Institute of Hematology, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; Wenzhou Key Laboratory of Hematology, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jifan Zhou
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; Institute of Hematology, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yixin Ling
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; Institute of Hematology, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; Wenzhou Key Laboratory of Hematology, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yicheng Tan
- Institute of Hematology, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; Wenzhou Key Laboratory of Hematology, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; Laboratory Animal Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jialing Zhang
- Institute of Hematology, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; Wenzhou Key Laboratory of Hematology, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; Central Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiaofang Wang
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; Institute of Hematology, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; Wenzhou Key Laboratory of Hematology, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Fanfan Li
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; Institute of Hematology, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; Wenzhou Key Laboratory of Hematology, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Songfu Jiang
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; Institute of Hematology, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; Wenzhou Key Laboratory of Hematology, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Shenghui Zhang
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; Institute of Hematology, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; Wenzhou Key Laboratory of Hematology, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; Laboratory Animal Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Kang Yu
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; Institute of Hematology, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; Wenzhou Key Laboratory of Hematology, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Yixiang Han
- Institute of Hematology, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; Wenzhou Key Laboratory of Hematology, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; Central Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China.
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Wei S, Xiao J, Ju F, Liu J, Hu Z. A review on the pharmacology, pharmacokinetics and toxicity of sophocarpine. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1353234. [PMID: 38746009 PMCID: PMC11092382 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1353234] [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: 12/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Sophocarpine is a natural compound that belongs to the quinolizidine alkaloid family, and has a long history of use and widespread distribution in traditional Chinese herbal medicines such as Sophora alopecuroides L., Sophora flavescens Ait., and Sophora subprostrata. This article aims to summarize the pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, and toxicity of sophocarpine, evaluate its potential pharmacological effects in various diseases, and propose the necessity for further research and evaluation to promote its clinical application. A large number of studies have shown that it has anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antiviral, antiparasitic, anticancer, endocrine regulatory, and organ-protective effects as it modulates various signaling pathways, such as the NF-κB, MAPK, PI3K/AKT, and AMPK pathways. The distribution of sophocarpine in the body conforms to a two-compartment model, and sophocarpine can be detected in various tissues with a relatively short half-life. Although the pharmacological effects of sophocarpine have been confirmed, toxicity and safety assessments and reports on molecular mechanisms of its pharmacological actions have been limited. Given its significant pharmacological effects and potential clinical value, further research and evaluation are needed to promote the clinical application of sophocarpine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shichao Wei
- Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Laboratory of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, National-Local Joint Engineering Research Centre of Translational Medicine of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Junshen Xiao
- Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Laboratory of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, National-Local Joint Engineering Research Centre of Translational Medicine of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Feng Ju
- Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Laboratory of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, National-Local Joint Engineering Research Centre of Translational Medicine of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Jin Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Zhaoyang Hu
- Laboratory of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, National-Local Joint Engineering Research Centre of Translational Medicine of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
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Chen M, Wu GB, Hua S, Zheng L, Fan Q, Luo M. Dibutyl phthalate (DBP) promotes Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT) to aggravate liver fibrosis into cirrhosis and portal hypertension (PHT) via ROS/TGF-β1/Snail-1 signalling pathway in adult rats. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 274:116124. [PMID: 38503108 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.116124] [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: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The primary objective of this study was to investigate the toxicological impact of Dibutyl phthalate (DBP) on the process of liver fibrosis transitioning into cirrhosis and the subsequent development of portal hypertension (PHT) through the mechanism of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) mediated by the ROS/TGF-β/Snail-1 signaling pathway. METHOD Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) (1 mg/kg) was introduced in adult rats by oral feeding in CCl4 and CCl4+DBP groups twice a week for 8 weeks, and twice for another 8 week in CCl4 group. DBP was introduced by oral feeding in the CCl4+DBP group twice over the following 8 weeks. We subsequently analyzed hemodynamics measurements and liver cirrhosis degree, hepatic inflammation and liver function in the different groups. EMT related genes expression in rats in the groups of Control, DBP, CCl4 and CCl4+DBP were measured by immunohistochemistry (IHC). Enzyme-linked immunosorbent Assay (ELISA), qRT-PCR, western blot were used to detect the EMT related proteins and mRNA gene expression levels in rats and primary hepatocytes (PHCs). Reactive oxygen species (ROS) were examined with a ROS detection kit. RESULTS The results showed that the CCl4+DBP group had higher portal pressure (PP) and lower mean arterial pressure (MAP) than the other groups. Elevated collagen deposition, profibrotic factor, inflammation, EMT levels were detected in DBP and CCl4+DBP groups. ROS, TGF-β1 and Snail-1 were highly expressed after DBP exposure in vitro. TGF-β1 had the potential to regulate Snail-1, and both of them were subject to regulation by ROS. CONCLUSION DBP could influence the progression of EMT through its toxicological effect by ROS/TGF-β1/Snail-1 signalling pathway, causing cirrhosis and PHT in final. The findings of this research might contribute to a novel comprehension of the underlying toxicological mechanisms and animal model involved in the progression of cirrhosis and PHT, and potentially offered a promising therapeutic target for the treatment of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Guang-Bo Wu
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shan Hua
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Lei Zheng
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Qiang Fan
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Meng Luo
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
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Sun D, Du X, Cao X, Wu B, Li S, Zhao Y, Liu T, Xu L, Huang H. Neutrophil-Based Bionic Delivery System Breaks Through the Capillary Barrier of Liver Sinusoidal Endothelial Cells and Inhibits the Activation of Hepatic Stellate Cells. Mol Pharm 2024; 21:2043-2057. [PMID: 38471114 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.4c00173] [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: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
The capillarization of hepatic sinusoids resulting from the activation of hepatic stellate cells poses a significant challenge, impeding the effective delivery of therapeutic agents to the Disse space for liver fibrosis treatment. Therefore, overcoming these barriers and achieving efficient drug delivery to activated hepatic stellate cells (aHSCs) are pressing challenge. In this study, we developed a synergistic sequential drug delivery approach utilizing neutrophil membrane hybrid liposome@atorvastatin/amlisentan (NCM@AtAm) and vitamin A-neutrophil membrane hybrid liposome @albumin (VNCM@Bai) nanoparticles (NPs) to breach the capillary barrier for targeted HSC cell delivery. Initially, NCM@AtAm NPs were successfully directed to the site of hepatic fibrosis through neutrophil-mediated inflammatory targeting, resulting in the normalization of liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) and restoration of fenestrations under the combined influence of At and Am. Elevated tissue levels of the p-Akt protein and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) indicated the normalization of LSECs following treatment with At and Am. Subsequently, VNCM@Bai NPs traversed the restored LSEC fenestrations to access the Disse space, facilitating the delivery of Bai into aHSCs under vitamin A guidance. Lastly, both in vitro and in vivo results demonstrated the efficacy of Bai in inhibiting HSC cell activation by modulating the PPAR γ/TGF-β1 and STAT1/Smad7 signaling pathways, thereby effectively treating liver fibrosis. Overall, our designed synergistic sequential delivery system effectively overcomes the barrier imposed by LSECs, offering a promising therapeutic strategy for liver fibrosis treatment in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Sun
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Xiao Du
- Department of Pharmacy, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing Medical Center for Clinical Pharmacy, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Xinyu Cao
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Bingyu Wu
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Shanshan Li
- School of Pharmacy, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui Province 233030,China
| | - Yongmei Zhao
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Tianqing Liu
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Lixing Xu
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Haiqin Huang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
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Yang S, Cheng Y, Wang X, Yue S, Wang X, Tang L, Li H, Zhang J, Xiong Q, Tan S. Chinese herbal decoction, Yi-Qi-Jian-Pi formula exerts anti-hepatic fibrosis effects in mouse models of CCl 4-induced liver fibrosis. Heliyon 2024; 10:e26129. [PMID: 38434258 PMCID: PMC10907526 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e26129] [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: 10/22/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Yi-Qi-Jian-Pi Formula (YQJPF) is a herbal medicine that is used to treat patients with liver failure. However, scientific evidence supporting the treatment of hepatic fibrosis with YQJPF has not been forthcoming. The present study aimed to determine the mechanisms underlying the anti-fibrotic effects of YQJPF in mouse models of hepatic fibrosis. Methods Mice were randomly assigned to control, hepatic fibrosis model, silymarin (positive treated), and low-, medium- and high-dose YQJPF (7.5, 15, and 30 g/kg, respectively) groups. Liver function, inflammatory cytokines, and oxygen stress were analyzed using ELISA kits. Sections were histopathologically stained with hematoxylin-eosin, Masson trichrome, and Sirius red. Macrophage polarization was measured by flow cytometry and immunofluorescence. Potential targets of YQJPF against hepatic fibrosis were analyzed by network pharmacology of Chinese herbal compound and the effects of YQJPF on the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β)/Suppressor of Mothers against Decapentaplegic family member 3 (Smad3) signaling pathway were assessed using qRT-PCR and immunohistochemical staining. Finally, metagenomics and LC-MS/MS were used to detect the intestinal flora and metabolites of the mice, and an in-depth correlation analysis was performed by spearman correlation analysis. The data were compared by one-way ANOVA and least significant differences (LSDs) or ANOVA-Dunnett's T3 method used when no homogeneity was detected. Results We induced hepatic fibrosis using CCl4 to establish mouse models and found that YQJPF dose-dependently increased body weight, improved liver function, and reversed hepatic fibrosis. Elevated levels of the pro-inflammatory factors IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α in the model mice were substantially decreased by YQJPF, particularly at the highest dose. Levels of serum malondialdehyde and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity were elevated and reduced, respectively. The malondialdehyde concentration decreased and SOD activity increased in the high-dose group. M1 polarized macrophages (CD86) in the mouse models were significantly decreased and M2 polarization was mildly decreased without significance. However, high-dose YQJPF increased the numbers of M2 macrophages and inhibited TGF-β/Smad3 signaling. Metagenomic and non-targeted metabolomics detection results showed that YQJPF could regulate intestinal homeostasis, and Spearman correlation analysis showed that the abundance of Calditerrivibrio_nitroreducens was significantly negatively correlated with 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid. It is suggested that Calditerrivibrio_nitroreducens may reduce the anti-fibrosis effect of licorice and other Chinese herbs by digesting 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid. Conclusions YQJPF can reverse liver fibrosis by inhibiting inflammation, suppressing oxidative stress, regulating the immunological response initiated by macrophages, inhibiting TGF-β/Smad3 signaling and regulating intestinal flora homeostasis. Therefore, YQJPF may be included in clinical regimens to treat hepatic fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiyan Yang
- Department of Integrated TCM and Western Medicine, Nanjing Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, Huai'an Hospital Affiliated to Xuzhou Medical University, Huai'an, 223002, China
| | - Yajun Cheng
- Department of Gastroenterology, People's Hospital of Lianshui, Huai'an, 223000, China
| | - Xiaolong Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Tumor Hospital of Huai'an, Huai'an, 223200, China
| | - Suyang Yue
- Department of Integrated TCM and Western Medicine, Nanjing Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, Huai'an Hospital Affiliated to Xuzhou Medical University, Huai'an, 223002, China
| | - Xi Wang
- Department of Integrated TCM and Western Medicine, Nanjing Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Li Tang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nanjing Hospital of Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210001, China
| | - Hailun Li
- Department of Nephrology, Huai'an Hospital Affiliated to Xuzhou Medical University, Huai'an, 223001, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology, Huai'an Hospital Affiliated to Xuzhou Medical University, Huai'an, 223002, China
| | - Qingping Xiong
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Regional Resource Exploitation and Medicinal Research, Huaiyin Institute of Technology, Huai'an, 223003, China
| | - Shanzhong Tan
- Department of Integrated TCM and Western Medicine, Nanjing Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
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Hong W, Xiao T, Lin G, Liu C, Li H, Li Y, Hu H, Wu S, Wang S, Liang Z, Lin T, Liu J, Chen X. Structure-based design and synthesis of anti-fibrotic compounds derived from para-positioned 3,4,5-trisubstituted benzene. Bioorg Chem 2024; 144:107113. [PMID: 38232685 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2024.107113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is an abnormal wound-healing response to liver injuries. It can lead to liver cirrhosis, and even liver cancer and liver failure. There is a lack of treatment for liver fibrosis and it is of great importance to develop anti-fibrotic drugs. A pivotal event in the process of developing liver fibrosis is the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), in which the nuclear receptor Nur77 plays a crucial role. This study aimed to develop novel anti-fibrotic agents with Nur77 as the drug target by modifying the structure of THPN, a Nur77-binding and anti-melanoma compound. Specifically, a series of para-positioned 3,4,5-trisubstituted benzene ring compounds with long-chain backbone were generated and tested for anti-fibrotic activity. Among these compounds, compound A8 was with the most potent and Nur77-dependent inhibitory activity against TGF-β1-induced activation of HSCs. In a crystal structure analysis, compound A8 bound Nur77 in a peg-in-hole mode as THPN did but adopted a different conformation that could interfere the Nur77 interaction with AKT, which was previous shown to be important for an anti-fibrotic activity. In a cell-based assay, compound A8 indeed impeded the interaction between Nur77 and AKT leading to the stabilization of Nur77 without the activation of AKT. In a mouse model, compound A8 effectively suppressed the activation of AKT signaling pathway and up-regulated the cellular level of Nur77 to attenuate the HSCs activation and ameliorate liver fibrosis with no significant toxic side effects. Collectively, this work demonstrated that Nur77-targeting compound A8 is a promising anti-fibrotic drug candidate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenbin Hong
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Network, State-province Joint Engineering Laboratory of Targeted Drugs from Natural Products, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China; Cancer Research Center of Xiamen University, Xiamen, China; Xiamen Key Laboratory of Clinical Efficacy and Evidence Studies of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, China; The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Tianyichen Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Network, State-province Joint Engineering Laboratory of Targeted Drugs from Natural Products, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China; Cancer Research Center of Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Gang Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Changqin Liu
- Xiamen Key Laboratory of Clinical Efficacy and Evidence Studies of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, China; The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Hailong Li
- The State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Yunlong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Network, State-province Joint Engineering Laboratory of Targeted Drugs from Natural Products, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China; Cancer Research Center of Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Hongyu Hu
- Xingzhi College, Zhejiang Normal University, Lanxi 321004, China
| | - Siqi Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Network, State-province Joint Engineering Laboratory of Targeted Drugs from Natural Products, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China; Cancer Research Center of Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Songqing Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Network, State-province Joint Engineering Laboratory of Targeted Drugs from Natural Products, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China; Cancer Research Center of Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Zhijian Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Network, State-province Joint Engineering Laboratory of Targeted Drugs from Natural Products, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China; Cancer Research Center of Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Tianwei Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Network, State-province Joint Engineering Laboratory of Targeted Drugs from Natural Products, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China; Cancer Research Center of Xiamen University, Xiamen, China.
| | - Jie Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China.
| | - Xueqin Chen
- Xiamen Key Laboratory of Clinical Efficacy and Evidence Studies of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, China; The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, China.
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Dai X, Du Z, Jin C, Tang B, Chen X, Jing X, Shen Y, He F, Wang S, Li J, Ding K, Zang Y. Inulin-like polysaccharide ABWW may impede CCl 4 induced hepatic stellate cell activation through mediating the FAK/PI3K/AKT signaling pathway in vitro & in vivo. Carbohydr Polym 2024; 326:121637. [PMID: 38142102 DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2023.121637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/25/2023]
Abstract
Studies have shown that terrestrial acidic polysaccharides containing carboxyl groups and seaweed sulfated polysaccharides have strong potential in anti-liver fibrosis. However, there is no investigation on the anti-liver fibrosis of fructan, a ubiquitous natural polysaccharide. The present study aimed to understand the effect of fructan in ameliorating carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver fibrosis in mice. Here, an inulin-like fructan ABWW from Achyranthes bidentata Bl. was characterized by fructose enzymatic hydrolysis, methylation analysis, ESI-MS, and NMR. It was composed of →2)-β-d-Fruf-(1→ and →2)-β-d-Fruf-(1, 6→, terminated with →1)-α-d-Glcp and →2)-β-d-Fruf residues. The biological studies showed that ABWW could improve liver damage and liver fibrosis induced by CCl4in vivo and inhibit hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation and migration in vitro. We further demonstrated that ABWW inhibited LX2 activation via suppressing the FAK/PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. Hence, ABWW might be a potential novel active compound for anti-fibrosis new drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolan Dai
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Zhenyun Du
- Glycochemistry and Glycobiology Lab, Carbohydrate Drug Research Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China; Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Can Jin
- Glycochemistry and Glycobiology Lab, Carbohydrate Drug Research Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China; Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 563003, China
| | - Bixi Tang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Xia Chen
- Glycochemistry and Glycobiology Lab, Carbohydrate Drug Research Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Xiaoqi Jing
- Glycochemistry and Glycobiology Lab, Carbohydrate Drug Research Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Yumei Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Fei He
- Glycochemistry and Glycobiology Lab, Carbohydrate Drug Research Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Shunchun Wang
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China.
| | - Jia Li
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China; School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, UCAS, Hangzhou 310024, China; ZhongShan Institute for Drug Discovery, Zhongshan Tsuihang New District, Guangdong 528400, China.
| | - Kan Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China; Glycochemistry and Glycobiology Lab, Carbohydrate Drug Research Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China; ZhongShan Institute for Drug Discovery, Zhongshan Tsuihang New District, Guangdong 528400, China.
| | - Yi Zang
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China; Lingang Laboratory, Shanghai 201203, China; School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, UCAS, Hangzhou 310024, China.
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Xin X, Cheng X, Zeng F, Xu Q, Hou L. The Role of TGF-β/SMAD Signaling in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: from Mechanism to Therapy and Prognosis. Int J Biol Sci 2024; 20:1436-1451. [PMID: 38385079 PMCID: PMC10878151 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.89568] [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: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common cancers worldwide, with high incidence and mortality, accounting for approximately 90% of liver cancer. The development of HCC is a complex process involving the abnormal activation or inactivation of multiple signaling pathways. Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β)/Small mothers against decapentaplegic (SMAD) signaling pathway regulates the development of HCC. TGF-β activates intracellular SMADs protein through membrane receptors, resulting in a series of biological cascades. Accumulating studies have demonstrated that TGF-β/SMAD signaling plays multiple regulatory functions in HCC. However, there is still controversy about the role of TGF-β/SMAD in HCC. Because it involves different pathogenic factors, disease stages, and cell microenvironment, as well as upstream and downstream relationships with other signaling pathways. This review will summary the regulatory mechanism of the TGF-β/SMAD signaling pathway in HCC, involving the regulation of different pathogenic factors, different disease stages, different cell populations, microenvironments, and the interaction with microRNAs. In addition, we also introduced small molecule inhibitors, therapeutic vaccines, and traditional Chinese medicine extracts based on targeting the TGF-β/SMAD signaling pathway, which will provide future research direction for HCC therapy targeting the TGF-β/SMAD signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Xin
- The College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Beijing Jiaotong University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiyu Cheng
- The College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Beijing Jiaotong University, Beijing, China
| | - Fanxin Zeng
- Department of Clinical Research Center, Dazhou Central Hospital, Dazhou, Sichuan province, China
| | - Qing Xu
- The College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Beijing Jiaotong University, Beijing, China
| | - Lingling Hou
- The College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Beijing Jiaotong University, Beijing, China
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9
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Wang Y, Jiao L, Qiang C, Chen C, Shen Z, Ding F, Lv L, Zhu T, Lu Y, Cui X. The role of matrix metalloproteinase 9 in fibrosis diseases and its molecular mechanisms. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 171:116116. [PMID: 38181715 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.116116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 12/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis is a process of tissue repair that results in the slow creation of scar tissue to replace healthy tissue and can affect any tissue or organ. Its primary feature is the massive deposition of extracellular matrix (mainly collagen), eventually leading to tissue dysfunction and organ failure. The progression of fibrotic diseases has put a significant strain on global health and the economy, and as a result, there is an urgent need to find some new therapies. Previous studies have identified that inflammation, oxidative stress, some cytokines, and remodeling play a crucial role in fibrotic diseases and are essential avenues for treating fibrotic diseases. Among them, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are considered the main targets for the treatment of fibrotic diseases since they are the primary driver involved in ECM degradation, and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) are natural endogenous inhibitors of MMPs. Through previous studies, we found that MMP-9 is an essential target for treating fibrotic diseases. However, it is worth noting that MMP-9 plays a bidirectional regulatory role in different fibrotic diseases or different stages of the same fibrotic disease. Previously identified MMP-9 inhibitors, such as pirfenidone and nintedanib, suffer from some rather pronounced side effects, and therefore, there is an urgent need to investigate new drugs. In this review, we explore the mechanism of action and signaling pathways of MMP-9 in different tissues and organs, hoping to provide some ideas for developing safer and more effective biologics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuling Wang
- Department of Cardiovascular Unit, Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China; Graduate School of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Linke Jiao
- Department of Cardiovascular Unit, Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China; Graduate School of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Caoxia Qiang
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tumor Hospital Affiliated to Nantong University, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chen Chen
- Department of Cardiovascular Unit, Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zihuan Shen
- Department of Cardiovascular Unit, Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China; Graduate School of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Fan Ding
- Department of Cardiovascular Unit, Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China; Graduate School of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Lifei Lv
- Department of Cardiovascular Unit, Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Tingting Zhu
- Department of Cardiovascular Unit, Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yingdong Lu
- Department of Cardiovascular Unit, Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiangning Cui
- Department of Cardiovascular Unit, Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China.
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Xu T, Chakraborty S, Wei D, Tran M, Rhea R, Wei B, Nguyen P, Gagea M, Cohen L, Liao Z, Yang P. Evaluation of the Protective Effect of Compound Kushen Injection Against Radiation- induced Pneumonitis in Mice. RESEARCH SQUARE 2024:rs.3.rs-3880937. [PMID: 38352564 PMCID: PMC10862984 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3880937/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
Background Radiation-induced lung injury (RILI) via inflammation is a common adverse effect of thoracic radiation that negatively impacts patient quality of life and survival. Compound kushen injection (CKI), a botanical drug treatment, was examined for its ability to reduce RILI, and inflammatory responses and improve survival in mice exposed total lung irradiation (TLI). CKI's specific mechanisms of action were also evaluated. Methods C3H mice underwent TLI and were treated with CKI (2, 4, or 8 mL/kg) intraperitoneally once a day for 8 weeks. The effects of CKI on survival were estimated by Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and compared by log-rank test. RILI damage was evaluated by histopathology and micro-computed tomography (CT). Inflammatory cytokines and cyclooxygenase metabolites were examined by IHC staining, western blot, and ELISA. Results Pre-irradiation treatment with 4 or 8 mL/kg CKI starting 2 weeks before TLI or concurrent treatment with 8 mL/kg CKI were associated with a significantly longer survival compared with TLI vehicle-treated group ( P < 0.05). Micro-CT images evaluations showed that concurrent treatment with 8 mL/kg CKI was associated with significantly lower incidence of RILI ( P < 0.05). Histological evaluations revealed that concurrent TLI treatment of CKI (4 and 8 mL/kg) significantly reduced lung inflammation (p < 0.05). Mechanistic investigation showed that at 72 hours after radiation, TLI plus vehicle mice had significantly elevated serum IL6, IL17A, and TGF-β levels compared with non-irradiated, age-matched normal mice; in contrast, levels of these cytokines in mice that received TLI plus CKI treatment were lower than those in the TLI plus vehicle-treated mice ( P < 0.05) and similar to the nonirradiated mice. IHC staining showed that the CKI treatment led to a reduction of TGF-β positive cells in the lung tissues of TLI mice (P < 0.01). The concurrent CKI with TLI treatment group had a significant reduction in COX-2 activity and COX-2 metabolites compared with the TLI vehicle-treated group ( P < 0.05). Conclusions These data suggest that CKI treatment was associated with reduced radiation-induced inflammation in lung tissues, reduced RILI, and improved survival. Further investigation of CKI in human clinical trials as a potential radioprotector against RILI to improve patients' quality of life and survival is warranted.
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11
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Lu T, Kong B, Wang Y, Yu J, Pan Y, Chen D, Li H, Chen X, Yuan Z, Yang Z, Zhang J, Ding T, Zhang G, Fan Q, Wang X. Compound Kushen injection combined with transarterial chemoembolization for hepatocellular carcinoma: An evidence map and overview of systematic reviews. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 319:117267. [PMID: 37838291 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.117267] [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: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/16/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE For the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), compound Kushen injection (CKi) is commonly used in combination with transarterial chemoembolization (TACE). AIMS OF THE STUDY Our objective was to evaluate the reporting quality, methodological quality, risk of bias, and certainty of evidence for CKi combined with TACE for the treatment of patients with HCC by conducting systematic reviews (SRs). The purpose of this study was to improve the clinical application of CKis, strengthen clinical decision-making regarding CKis, and inform future research. MATERIALS AND METHODS We used eight databases to systematically search SRs of CKi combined with TACE for HCC through February 21, 2023. The quality of reporting of SRs was evaluated using the 2009 Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, methodological quality using A MeaSurement Tool to Assess systematic Reviews 2, risk of bias using the Risk of Bias in Systematic Review, and certainty of evidence using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment. Finally, the assessment results were visualized by the evidence mapping method. This overview has been registered on PROSPERO with the registration title "Compound Kushen injection for hepatocellular carcinoma: An overview of systematic reviews" and registration number CRD42022369120. RESULTS A total of 12 SRs meeting the inclusion criteria were included. In terms of reporting quality, 42% of SRs reported relatively complete reports and 58% had certain deficiencies. The methodological quality of all SRs was " critically low". The risk of bias was evaluated as low in 33% of SRs and high in 67% of SRs. The results of the evidence synthesis showed that, in the "moderate" level of evidence, CKi combined with TACE resulted in a 12.7%-21.5% benefit for one-year survival rate, 11.7%-17.2% benefit for objective response rate (ORR), 20.5%-27.1% benefit for quality of life, 22.2% benefit for nausea and vomiting, and 24.7%-27.4% benefit for leukopenia in HCC patients. CONCLUSION In conclusion, CKi combined with TACE improved survival, ORR and quality of life in patients with HCC, and reduced adverse events. The results should be interpreted with caution due to the low methodological quality of the included SRs. The clinical efficacy of CKis must be confirmed in a large number of randomized controlled trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taicheng Lu
- Graduate School, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, China; Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100010, China
| | - Bingtan Kong
- Graduate School, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, China; Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100010, China
| | - Yue Wang
- Graduate School, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, China; Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100010, China
| | - Jingwen Yu
- Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100053, China
| | - Yuancan Pan
- Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100010, China
| | - Dong Chen
- Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100010, China
| | - Haiming Li
- Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100010, China
| | - Xing Chen
- Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100010, China
| | - Zichun Yuan
- Graduate School, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, China; Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100010, China
| | - Zhengzheng Yang
- Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100010, China
| | - Jiahui Zhang
- Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100010, China
| | - Tongjing Ding
- Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100010, China
| | - Ganlin Zhang
- Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100010, China.
| | - Qingsheng Fan
- Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100010, China.
| | - Xiaomin Wang
- Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100010, China.
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12
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Chen X, Yu S, Wang P, Zhao X, Sang G. Development and Evaluation of a Novel Hyaluronic Acid and Chitosan-modified Phytosome for Co-delivery of Oxymatrine and Glycyrrhizin for Combination Therapy. Recent Pat Anticancer Drug Discov 2024; 19:154-164. [PMID: 38214355 DOI: 10.2174/1574892818666230215112942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 11/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Multidrug resistance (MDR) of cancer cells is a major obstacle to efficient cancer chemotherapy. Combination therapy is expected to enhance the anticancer effect and reverse MDR. Numerous patents involve different kinds of nanoparticles for the co-delivery of multiple chemotherapeutics, but the FDA has approved none. OBJECTIVE In this study, oxymatrine (OMT) and glycyrrhizin (GL) were co-loaded into phytosomes as the core of nanocarriers, and the shell was cross-linked with chitosan (CS) and hyaluronic acid (HA) with the capability for the controlled, sequential release and the targeted drug uptake. METHODS Phospholipid complexes of OMT and GL (OGPs) were prepared by a solvent evaporation technique and could self-assemble in an aqueous solution to form phytosomes. CS and HA were sequentially coated on the surface of OGPs via electrostatic interactions to obtain CS coated OGPs (CS-OGPs) and HA modified CS-OGPs (HA-CS-OGPs), respectively. The particle size and zeta potential were measured to optimize the formulations. In vitro cytotoxicity and cellular uptake experiments on HepG2 cells were performed to evaluate the anticancer activity. RESULTS OGPs were obtained with nano-size around 100 nm, and CS and HA coating on phytosomes could change the particle size and surface potential. The drug loading of OMT and GL showed that the nanocarriers could maintain a fixed ratio of 1:1. The in vitro release experiments indicated the release of OMT and GL was pH-dependent and sequential: the release of OMT from CS-OGPs and HA-CS-OGPs was significantly increased at pH 5.0 compared to the release at pH 7.4, while GL exhibited sustained released from CS-OGPs and HA-CS-OGPs at pH 5.0. Furthermore, in vitro cytotoxicity and cellular uptake experiments on HepG2 cells demonstrated that the co-delivery system based on phytosomes had significant synergistic anti-tumor activities, and the effects were enhanced by CS and HA modification. CONCLUSION The delivery of OMT and GL via HA-CS-OGPs might be a promising treatment to reverse MDR in cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojin Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Children's Hospital, Hangzhou 310014, Zhejiang, China
| | - Shuying Yu
- Department of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Children's Hospital, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, China
| | - Pingping Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Children's Hospital, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, China
| | - XinFeng Zhao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Hangzhou Children's Hospital, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, China
| | - Gao Sang
- Department of Traditional Medicine, Hangzhou Children's Hospital, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, China
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13
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Gao Y, Wu C, Huang J, Huang Z, Jin Z, Guo S, Tao X, Lu S, Zhang J, Zhang F, Zhai Y, Shi R, Ye P, Wu J. A new strategy to identify ADAM12 and PDGFRB as a novel prognostic biomarker for matrine regulates gastric cancer via high throughput chip mining and computational verification. Comput Biol Med 2023; 166:107562. [PMID: 37847945 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2023.107562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 08/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gastric cancer is a life-threatening disease that poses a serious risk to human health. Although there are numerous molecular targets for gastric cancer in clinical practice, they often exhibit low specificity and sensitivity. Consequently, this can result in a low early diagnosis rate, delayed treatment, and poor prognosis for patients with gastric cancer. Hence, it remains crucial to identify more precise diagnostic markers for this disease. METHODS This study utilized ceRNA chips and bioinformatics methods to investigate the key genes and mechanisms involved in matrine intervention in gastric cancer cells. RESULTS ADAM12 and PDGFRB are the key genes that are down-regulated after matrine intervention in gastric cancer cells. By conducting bioinformatics analysis, two ceRNA regulatory axes were identified, which are associated with the prognosis of gastric cancer. These axes are lncRNA DGCR5/hsa-miR-206/ADAM12 and circRNA ITGA3/hsa-miR-24-3p/PDGFRB. CONCLUSION The low expression of ADAM12 may weaken the digestion of extracellular matrix (ECM) molecules, which can result in the invasion and metastasis of tumor cells. This occurs without the catalysis of ECM proteases, thereby impacting the invasion and metastasis of gastric cancer cells. Additionally, the analysis of immune infiltration suggests that ADAM12 and PDGFRB may influence changes in the tumor immune microenvironment, thereby affecting the occurrence and development of gastric cancer. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of the role of the matrine-related ceRNA network in gastric cancer, providing a reference for clinical diagnosis and treatment. It holds significant importance in discovering new drug treatment targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifei Gao
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Chao Wu
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Jiaqi Huang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Zhihong Huang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Zhengsen Jin
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Siyu Guo
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Xiaoyu Tao
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Shan Lu
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Jingyuan Zhang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Fanqin Zhang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Yiyan Zhai
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Rui Shi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Peizhi Ye
- National Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021, China.
| | - Jiarui Wu
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China.
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14
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Hu H, Lin G, He F, Liu J, Jia R, Li K, Hong W, Fang M, Zeng JZ. Design, synthesis, and biological evaluation of carbonyl-hydrazine-1-carboxamide derivatives as anti-hepatic fibrosis agents targeting Nur77. Bioorg Chem 2023; 140:106795. [PMID: 37657195 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2023.106795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/03/2023]
Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis remains a great challenge clinically. The orphan nuclear receptor Nur77 is recently suggested as the critical regulator of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling, which plays a central role in multi-organic fibrosis. Herein, we optimized our previously reported Nur77-targeted compound 9 h for attempting to develop effective and safe anti-hepatic fibrosis agents. The critical pharmacophore scaffold of pyridine-carbonyl-hydrazine-1-carboxamide was retained, while the naphthalene ring was replaced with an aromatic ring containing pyridyl or indole groups. Four series of derivatives were thus generated, among which the compound 16f had excellent binding activity toward Nur77-LBD (KD = 470 nM) with the best inhibitory activity against the TGF- β 1 activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and low cytotoxicity to normal mice liver AML-12 cells (IC50 > 80 μM). In mice, 16f displayed potent activity against CCl4-induced liver fibrosis with improved liver function. Mechanistically, 16f-mediated inactivation of HSC and suppression of liver fibrosis were associated with its enhancement of autophagic flux in a Nur77-dependent manner. Together, 16f was identified as a potential anti-liver fibrosis agent. Our study suggests that Nur77 may serve as a critical anti-hepatic fibrosis target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyu Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China; Xingzhi College, Zhejiang Normal University, Lanxi 321004, China
| | - Gang Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Fengming He
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Jie Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Rong Jia
- Xingzhi College, Zhejiang Normal University, Lanxi 321004, China
| | - Kun Li
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Wenbin Hong
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Network, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, 361102 Xiamen, China
| | - Meijuan Fang
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China.
| | - Jin-Zhang Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China.
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15
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Tang Z, Li X, Tian L, Sun Y, Zhu X, Liu F. Mesoporous polydopamine based biominetic nanodrug ameliorates liver fibrosis via antioxidation and TGF-β/SMADS pathway. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 248:125906. [PMID: 37482153 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.125906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
Early intervention of liver fibrosis can prevent its further irreversible progression. Both excess reactive oxygen species (ROS) and transforming growth factor beta(TGF-β)/drosophila mothers against decapentaplegic protein (SMADS) pathway balance disorder promote the progression of hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation, but existing therapeutic strategies failed to focus on those two problems. A new biomimetic mesoporous polydopamine nandrug (MPO) was constructed for liver fibrosis therapy with multiple targets and reliable biosafety. The MPO was formed by mesoporous polydopamine (mPDA) which has the effect of ROS elimination and encapsulated with anti-fibrotic drug -oxymatrine (OMT) which can intervene liver fibrosis targeting TGF-β/SMADSpathway. Particularly, the nanodrug was completed by macrophage-derived exosome covering. The MPO was confirmed to possess a desired size distribution with negative zeta potential and exhibite strong ROS scavenger ability. Besides, in vitro studies, MPO showed efficient endocytosis and superior intracellular ROS scavenging without cytotoxicity; in vivo studies, MPO effectively cleared the excessive ROS in liver tissue and balanced the TGF-β/SMADS pathways, which in turn inhibited HSC activation and showed superior anti-liver fibrosis therapeutic efficiency with good biological safety. Taken together, this work showed highlights the great potential of the MPO for ameliorating liver fibrosis via ROS elimination and TGF-β/SMADS balancing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zihui Tang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China; State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Department of Oncology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200090, China
| | - Xiaojuan Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Minhang hospital of Fudan University, China
| | - Le Tian
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Yuhao Sun
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Xinyan Zhu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China.
| | - Fei Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China.
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16
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Li Y, Lu Y, Nian M, Sheng Q, Zhang C, Han C, Dou X, Ding Y. Therapeutic potential and mechanism of Chinese herbal medicines in treating fibrotic liver disease. Chin J Nat Med 2023; 21:643-657. [PMID: 37777315 DOI: 10.1016/s1875-5364(23)60443-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 10/02/2023]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a pathological condition characterized by replacement of normal liver tissue with scar tissue, and also the leading cause of liver-related death worldwide. During the treatment of liver fibrosis, in addition to antiviral therapy or removal of inducers, there remains a lack of specific and effective treatment strategies. For thousands of years, Chinese herbal medicines (CHMs) have been widely used to treat liver fibrosis in clinical setting. CHMs are effective for liver fibrosis, though its mechanisms of action are unclear. In recent years, many studies have attempted to determine the possible mechanisms of action of CHMs in treating liver fibrosis. There have been substantial improvements in the experimental investigation of CHMs which have greatly promoted the understanding of anti-liver fibrosis mechanisms. In this review, the role of CHMs in the treatment of liver fibrosis is described, based on studies over the past decade, which has addressed the various mechanisms and signaling pathways that mediate therapeutic efficacy. Among them, inhibition of stellate cell activation is identified as the most common mechanism. This article provides insights into the research direction of CHMs, in order to expand its clinical application range and improve its effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanwei Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110000, China
| | - Yunrui Lu
- Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenyang 110000, China
| | - Mozuo Nian
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110000, China
| | - Qiuju Sheng
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110000, China
| | - Chong Zhang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110000, China
| | - Chao Han
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110000, China
| | - Xiaoguang Dou
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110000, China
| | - Yang Ding
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110000, China.
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Wang Q, Xiong F, Wu G, Wang D, Liu W, Chen J, Qi Y, Wang B, Chen Y. SMAD Proteins in TGF-β Signalling Pathway in Cancer: Regulatory Mechanisms and Clinical Applications. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:2769. [PMID: 37685308 PMCID: PMC10487229 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13172769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2023] [Revised: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Suppressor of mother against decapentaplegic (SMAD) family proteins are central to one of the most versatile cytokine signalling pathways in metazoan biology, the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) pathway. The TGF-β pathway is widely known for its dual role in cancer progression as both an inhibitor of tumour cell growth and an inducer of tumour metastasis. This is mainly mediated through SMAD proteins and their cofactors or regulators. SMAD proteins act as transcription factors, regulating the transcription of a wide range of genes, and their rich post-translational modifications are influenced by a variety of regulators and cofactors. The complex role, mechanisms, and important functions of SMAD proteins in tumours are the hot topics in current oncology research. In this paper, we summarize the recent progress on the effects and mechanisms of SMAD proteins on tumour development, diagnosis, treatment and prognosis, and provide clues for subsequent research on SMAD proteins in tumours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Wang
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430000, China; (Q.W.); (F.X.); (G.W.); (D.W.); (W.L.); (J.C.); (B.W.)
| | - Fei Xiong
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430000, China; (Q.W.); (F.X.); (G.W.); (D.W.); (W.L.); (J.C.); (B.W.)
| | - Guanhua Wu
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430000, China; (Q.W.); (F.X.); (G.W.); (D.W.); (W.L.); (J.C.); (B.W.)
| | - Da Wang
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430000, China; (Q.W.); (F.X.); (G.W.); (D.W.); (W.L.); (J.C.); (B.W.)
| | - Wenzheng Liu
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430000, China; (Q.W.); (F.X.); (G.W.); (D.W.); (W.L.); (J.C.); (B.W.)
| | - Junsheng Chen
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430000, China; (Q.W.); (F.X.); (G.W.); (D.W.); (W.L.); (J.C.); (B.W.)
| | - Yongqiang Qi
- Key Laboratory of Laparoscopic Technology of Zhejiang Province, Department of General Surgery, Sir Run-Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310016, China;
| | - Bing Wang
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430000, China; (Q.W.); (F.X.); (G.W.); (D.W.); (W.L.); (J.C.); (B.W.)
| | - Yongjun Chen
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430000, China; (Q.W.); (F.X.); (G.W.); (D.W.); (W.L.); (J.C.); (B.W.)
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Kong Y, Zhu X, Zhang X, Li Z, Yin Y, Wang J, Jia H. Traditional Chinese medicine combined with radiofrequency ablation improves primary liver cancer outcomes: A systematic review with meta-analysis. Heliyon 2023; 9:e18591. [PMID: 37554780 PMCID: PMC10404954 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e18591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Traditional Chinese medicine and radiofrequency ablation are becoming increasingly important in the treatment of primary liver cancer. However, the clinical outcome of traditional Chinese medicine plus radiofrequency ablation is contentious. This study aimed to conduct a meta-analysis of randomized controlled clinical trials to address this gap. METHODS Short-term efficacy, alpha-fetoprotein level, immune function, liver function, and quality of life outcomes in patients with primary liver cancer treated with Chinese herbal medicine adjuvant radiofrequency ablation were systematically reviewed. RESULTS Eighteen randomized controlled clinical trials with 1488 patients with primary liver cancer were included. The combination treatment significantly increased the objective remission rate and quality of patient survival compared to the control group. Combination treatment significantly improved immunity and liver function factors, including CD3, CD4, CD4/CD8, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, total bilirubin, and albumin levels. However, there were no statistical differences in CD8 levels across treatments. Trial sequential analysis showed that the cumulative Z-curve of the Objective response rate crossed the conventional and test sequence monitoring boundaries; however, it did not cross the required information size line. CONCLUSIONS Traditional Chinese medicine combined with radiofrequency ablation for primary liver cancer can effectively reduce alpha-fetoprotein and improve clinical efficacy, immune function, liver function, as well as the quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Kong
- School of Public Health, Southwestern Medical University, Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine, Luzhou, 646000, China
- Collaborating Center of the National Institute of Health Data Sciences of China, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China
| | - Xiaoning Zhu
- Hepatobiliary Department, The Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China
| | - Xue Zhang
- School of Public Health, Southwestern Medical University, Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine, Luzhou, 646000, China
- Collaborating Center of the National Institute of Health Data Sciences of China, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China
| | - Zetian Li
- School of Public Health, Southwestern Medical University, Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine, Luzhou, 646000, China
- Collaborating Center of the National Institute of Health Data Sciences of China, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China
| | - Yue Yin
- Hepatobiliary Department, The Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Hepatobiliary Department, The Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China
| | - Hong Jia
- School of Public Health, Southwestern Medical University, Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine, Luzhou, 646000, China
- Collaborating Center of the National Institute of Health Data Sciences of China, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China
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Azamov B, Lee KM, Hur J, Muradillaeva S, Shim WS, Lee C, Song P. Oxoglaucine Suppresses Hepatic Fibrosis by Inhibiting TGFβ-Induced Smad2 Phosphorylation and ROS Generation. Molecules 2023; 28:4971. [PMID: 37446633 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28134971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis is the first stage of liver disease, and can progress to a chronic status, such as cirrhosis or hepatocellular carcinoma. Excessive production of extracellular matrix (ECM) components plays an important role in the development of fibrosis. Mechanistically, transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ)-induced phosphorylation of Smad is thought to be a key signaling pathway in the development of liver fibrosis. Although the natural isoquinoline alkaloid oxoglaucine (1,2,9,10-tetramethoxy-7H-dibenzo(de,g)quinolin-7-one) exerts numerous beneficial effects, including anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and anti-osteoarthritic effects in diverse cell types, the effects of oxoglaucine on liver fibrosis and fibrogenic gene expression have not been fully elucidated. The aim of this study is to evaluate the signaling pathway and antifibrotic activity of isoquinoline alkaloid oxoglaucine in TFGβ-induced hepatic fibrosis in vitro. Using Hepa1c1c7 cells and primary hepatocytes, we demonstrated that oxoglaucine treatment resulted in inhibition of the expression of fibrosis markers such as collagen, fibronectin, and alpha-SMA. Subsequent experiments showed that oxoglaucine suppressed TGFβ-induced phosphorylation of Smad2 and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, without altering cell proliferation. We further determined that the increase in Smad7 by oxoglaucine treatment is responsible for the inhibition of Smad2 phosphorylation and the anti-fibrogenic effects. These findings indicate that oxoglaucine plays a crucial role in suppression of fibrosis in hepatocytes, thereby making it a potential drug candidate for treatment of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bakhovuddin Azamov
- Department of Convergence Medicine, School of Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan 50612, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwang-Min Lee
- Department of Life Science and Environmental Biochemistry, Life and Industry Convergence Research Institute, Pusan National University, Miryang 50463, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Hur
- Department of Convergence Medicine, School of Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan 50612, Republic of Korea
| | - Shakhnoza Muradillaeva
- Department of Convergence Medicine, School of Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan 50612, Republic of Korea
| | - Wan-Seog Shim
- Department of Convergence Medicine, School of Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan 50612, Republic of Korea
| | - Chanhee Lee
- Department of Convergence Medicine, School of Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan 50612, Republic of Korea
| | - Parkyong Song
- Department of Convergence Medicine, School of Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan 50612, Republic of Korea
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Pei Q, Yi Q, Tang L. Liver Fibrosis Resolution: From Molecular Mechanisms to Therapeutic Opportunities. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24119671. [PMID: 37298621 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24119671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The liver is a critical system for metabolism in human beings, which plays an essential role in an abundance of physiological processes and is vulnerable to endogenous or exogenous injuries. After the damage to the liver, a type of aberrant wound healing response known as liver fibrosis may happen, which can result in an excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) and then cause cirrhosis or hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), seriously endangering human health and causing a great economic burden. However, few effective anti-fibrotic medications are clinically available to treat liver fibrosis. The most efficient approach to liver fibrosis prevention and treatment currently is to eliminate its causes, but this approach's efficiency is too slow, or some causes cannot be fully eliminated, which causes liver fibrosis to worsen. In cases of advanced fibrosis, the only available treatment is liver transplantation. Therefore, new treatments or therapeutic agents need to be explored to stop the further development of early liver fibrosis or to reverse the fibrosis process to achieve liver fibrosis resolution. Understanding the mechanisms that lead to the development of liver fibrosis is necessary to find new therapeutic targets and drugs. The complex process of liver fibrosis is regulated by a variety of cells and cytokines, among which hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are the essential cells, and their continued activation will lead to further progression of liver fibrosis. It has been found that inhibiting HSC activation, or inducing apoptosis, and inactivating activated hepatic stellate cells (aHSCs) can reverse fibrosis and thus achieve liver fibrosis regression. Hence, this review will concentrate on how HSCs become activated during liver fibrosis, including intercellular interactions and related signaling pathways, as well as targeting HSCs or liver fibrosis signaling pathways to achieve the resolution of liver fibrosis. Finally, new therapeutic compounds targeting liver fibrosis are summarized to provide more options for the therapy of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiying Pei
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
| | - Qian Yi
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Science, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Liling Tang
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
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21
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Liu F, Wu Q, Dong Z, Liu K. Integrins in cancer: Emerging mechanisms and therapeutic opportunities. Pharmacol Ther 2023:108458. [PMID: 37245545 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2023.108458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Integrins are vital surface adhesion receptors that mediate the interactions between the extracellular matrix (ECM) and cells and are essential for cell migration and the maintenance of tissue homeostasis. Aberrant integrin activation promotes initial tumor formation, growth, and metastasis. Recently, many lines of evidence have indicated that integrins are highly expressed in numerous cancer types and have documented many functions of integrins in tumorigenesis. Thus, integrins have emerged as attractive targets for the development of cancer therapeutics. In this review, we discuss the underlying molecular mechanisms by which integrins contribute to most of the hallmarks of cancer. We focus on recent progress on integrin regulators, binding proteins, and downstream effectors. We highlight the role of integrins in the regulation of tumor metastasis, immune evasion, metabolic reprogramming, and other hallmarks of cancer. In addition, integrin-targeted immunotherapy and other integrin inhibitors that have been used in preclinical and clinical studies are summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangfang Liu
- Research Center of Basic Medicine, Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, China; China-US (Henan) Hormel Cancer Institute, Zhengzhou, Henan 450008, China
| | - Qiong Wu
- China-US (Henan) Hormel Cancer Institute, Zhengzhou, Henan 450008, China; Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, China
| | - Zigang Dong
- Research Center of Basic Medicine, Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, China; China-US (Henan) Hormel Cancer Institute, Zhengzhou, Henan 450008, China; Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, China; State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, Zhengzhou, Henan 450000, China; Tianjian Advanced Biomedical Laboratory, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, China.
| | - Kangdong Liu
- Research Center of Basic Medicine, Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, China; China-US (Henan) Hormel Cancer Institute, Zhengzhou, Henan 450008, China; Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, China; State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, Zhengzhou, Henan 450000, China; Tianjian Advanced Biomedical Laboratory, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, China; Cancer Chemoprevention International Collaboration Laboratory, Zhengzhou, Henan 450000, China.
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22
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Zhou K, Liu D, Jin Y, Xia W, Zhang P, Zhou Z. Oxymatrine ameliorates osteoarthritis via the Nrf2/NF-κB axis in vitro and in vivo. Chem Biol Interact 2023; 380:110539. [PMID: 37196756 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2023.110539] [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: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common degenerative joint disorder. Currently, the underlying etiology of OA is still far from fully elucidated and there is no cure for OA progression. Previous studies have demonstrated that oxymatrine (OMT) could inhibit inflammation and oxidative stress in several animal models. However, the potential effects of OMT on OA remain largely elusive. The aim of the study is to investigate the anti-inflammatory and chondrocyte protective effect of OMT, and delineate the potential mechanism in vitro and in vivo. METHODS Western blotting, RT-qPCR, ELISA and tissue staining were employed to explore the mechanisms by which OMT exerted a protective effect on IL-1β-induced production of pro-inflammation cytokines and extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation in primary murine chondrocytes and DMM mouse models. RESULTS The results showed that OMT reduced the IL-1β-induced over-production of pro-inflammation cytokines and ECM degradation. Mechanistically, OMT inhibited the NF-κB pathway via activating Nrf2. In vivo studies also demonstrated that OMT ameliorated OA progression. CONCLUSIONS OMT reduced pro-inflammation cytokines, ECM degradation and OA progression via activating Nrf2 and inhibiting NF-κB pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kailong Zhou
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Dong Liu
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Yesheng Jin
- Department of Orthopedics, Wuxi Ninth People's Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
| | - Wei Xia
- Department of Pathology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Peng Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China.
| | - Zhiqiang Zhou
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China.
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Wang T, Zhang J, Wei H, Wang X, Xie M, Jiang Y, Zhou J. Matrine-induced nephrotoxicity via GSK-3β/nrf2-mediated mitochondria-dependent apoptosis. Chem Biol Interact 2023; 378:110492. [PMID: 37075934 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2023.110492] [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: 12/07/2022] [Revised: 03/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/16/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Matrine (MT), an ingredient extracted from the Chinese herb Sophora flavescens, can result in nephrotoxicity because of long-term exposure. However, the underlying mechanism by which MT leads to kidney injury remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the roles of oxidative stress and mitochondria in MT-induced kidney toxicity both in vitro and in vivo. METHODS Mice were exposed to MT for 20 days, and NRK-52E cells were exposed to MT with or without LiCl (a GSK-3β inhibitor), tert-Butylhydroquinone (t-BHQ, an Nrf2 activator), or small interfering RNA. RESULTS The results showed that MT caused nephrotoxicity accompanied by an increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation and mitochondrial dysfunction. Meanwhile, MT significantly upregulated glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β) activity, released cytochrome c (Cyt C) and cleaved caspase-3, decreased the activity of nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related Factor 2 (Nrf2), and reduced the expression of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO-1), which led to the inactivation of antioxidant enzymes and the activation of apoptosis. In addition, GSK-3β inhibition by LiCl or small interfering RNA pretreatment or Nrf2 activation by t-BHQ pretreatment attenuated the toxic effects of MT in NRK-52E cells. CONCLUSIONS Taken together, these results revealed that MT-induced apoptosis triggered kidney toxicity and that GSK-3β or Nrf2 might serve as a promising nephroprotective target for MT-induced kidney injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianyang Wang
- School of Medicine, Yichun University, 576 XueFu Road, Yuanzhou District, Yichun, 336000, PR China
| | - Jian Zhang
- School of Medicine, Yichun University, 576 XueFu Road, Yuanzhou District, Yichun, 336000, PR China
| | - Haokai Wei
- School of Medicine, Yichun University, 576 XueFu Road, Yuanzhou District, Yichun, 336000, PR China
| | - Xi Wang
- School of Medicine, Yichun University, 576 XueFu Road, Yuanzhou District, Yichun, 336000, PR China
| | - Minjuan Xie
- School of Medicine, Yichun University, 576 XueFu Road, Yuanzhou District, Yichun, 336000, PR China
| | - Yinjie Jiang
- School of Medicine, Yichun University, 576 XueFu Road, Yuanzhou District, Yichun, 336000, PR China
| | - Jie Zhou
- School of Medicine, Yichun University, 576 XueFu Road, Yuanzhou District, Yichun, 336000, PR China.
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Jiang C, Cai YQ, Yang JJ, Ma CY, Chen JX, Huang L, Xiang Z, Wu J. Radiomics in the diagnosis and treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma. Hepatobiliary Pancreat Dis Int 2023:S1499-3872(23)00044-9. [PMID: 37019775 DOI: 10.1016/j.hbpd.2023.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common malignant tumor. At present, early diagnosis of HCC is difficult and therapeutic methods are limited. Radiomics can achieve accurate quantitative evaluation of the lesions without invasion, and has important value in the diagnosis and treatment of HCC. Radiomics features can predict the development of cancer in patients, serve as the basis for risk stratification of HCC patients, and help clinicians distinguish similar diseases, thus improving the diagnostic accuracy. Furthermore, the prediction of the treatment outcomes helps determine the treatment plan. Radiomics is also helpful in predicting the HCC recurrence, disease-free survival and overall survival. This review summarized the role of radiomics in the diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun Jiang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou 215008, China
| | - Yi-Qi Cai
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310030, China
| | - Jia-Jia Yang
- Department of Infection Management, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou 215008, China
| | - Can-Yu Ma
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310030, China
| | - Jia-Xi Chen
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310030, China
| | - Lan Huang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou 215008, China
| | - Ze Xiang
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310030, China
| | - Jian Wu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou 215008, China.
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Li H, Wang G, Hu M, Dai R, Li C, Cao Y. Specific inhibitor of Smad3 (SIS3) alleviated submandibular gland fibrosis and dysfunction after dominant duct ligation in mice. J Dent Sci 2023; 18:865-871. [PMID: 37021213 PMCID: PMC10068496 DOI: 10.1016/j.jds.2023.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2023] [Revised: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background/purpose Chronic obstructive sialadenitis (COS) is a condition that severely reduced patients' quality of life. This study aimed to analyze the effects of SIS3, a specific inhibitor of small mothers against decapentaplegic 3 (SMAD3), on the submandibular gland (SMG) dysfunction, fibrosis, and inflammation. Materials and methods The dominant duct in the SMG was ligated in mice, followed by intraperitoneal injection of SIS3 (2 mg/kg/day) or Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) saline for 7 days. In the sham group, this duct was surgically identified but not ligated. Saliva flow, histological structure, fibrosis, Transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β)/SMAD3 signaling, and inflammatory cytokines, were analyzed. Results SIS3 rescued ligation-induced SMG dysfunction and improved the saliva flow rate compared to DMSO. SIS3 alleviated acinar atrophy and ductal dilation and maintained the morphology of the basal membrane. SIS3 reduces interlobular and intralobular fibrosis and collagen deposition. We observed reduced SMAD3 phosphorylation and TGF-β expression. The SIS3 group showed downregulation of np_5318 and miR-21 and upregulation of miR-29 b compared to the DMSO group. Moreover, SIS3 controlled the inflammatory cytokine release, including interleukin-6 and interleukin-1β. Conclusion SIS3 protected duct-ligated SMGs against fibrosis and dysfunction by inhibiting the TGF-β/SMAD3 signaling and inflammatory cytokine expression. SIS3 may serve as a promising treatment for chronic obstructive sialadenitis.
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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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Bu X, Ding W, Guo S, Wang Y, Feng J, Wang P, Chen Y, Ge Z. Differential expression of microRNAs in bile duct obstruction-induced liver fibrosis and the identification of a novel liver fibrosis marker miR-1295b-3p. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2023; 11:22. [PMID: 36760242 PMCID: PMC9906198 DOI: 10.21037/atm-22-6416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Background Bile duct obstruction-induced liver fibrosis is mainly caused by cholestatic liver injury which stimulates liver cell inflammation and damages the liver structure, causing liver fibrosis. The differentially expressed microRNAs and the potential target genes and signal pathways that are involved in bile duct obstruction-induced liver fibrosis remain unclear. We examined the differential expression of microRNAs and the target genes in the liver tissues of patients with liver fibrosis. Methods High-throughput sequencing was used to detect the total microRNAs and identify the differentially expressed microRNAs. The topGO software was used to perform the Gene Ontology (GO) function enrichment analysis. The KOBAS software was used to analyze the associated biochemical metabolic pathways and signal transduction pathways. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and Western blot analyses were conducted to detect the expression of miR-1295b-3p, alpha smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), Bcl-2, caspase-3, Bax, and β-arrestin1 (ARRB1). Cell viability and apoptosis were detected by the Cell Counting Kit 8 (CCK-8) assay and flow cytometry. The targeting relationship between ARRB1 and miR-1295b-3p was verified using luciferase reporter assays. Results A total of 44 microRNAs were found to be differentially expressed, including 18 upregulated and 26 downregulated microRNAs. Five downregulated microRNAs, including miR-483-3p, miR-5589-3p, miR-1271-5p, miR-1295b-3p, and miR-7977. GO functional enrichment analysis of the target genes revealed the molecular functions, cellular location, and biological processes involved. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) signal pathway analysis showed that the target genes are mainly involved in metabolic pathways. In addition, the results of qRT-PCR revealed that miR-1295b-3p was downregulated in human fibrotic liver tissues and TGF-β1-activated LX-2 cells (human hepatic stellate cell line). Overexpression of miR-1295b-3p alleviated liver fibrosis, decreased the α-SMA levels, and inhibited proliferation and enhanced apoptosis in LX-2 cells. Dual-luciferase assays revealed that miR-1295b-3p suppressed ARRB1 expression by binding directly to its 3' untranslated region (UTR). Conclusions This study identified the differentially expressed microRNAs in bile duct obstruction-induced liver fibrosis and revealed the potential target genes and signal pathways involved. Overexpression of miR-1295b-3p alleviated liver fibrosis, however, the specific targeting mechanisms warrant further clarification. Therefore, overexpressing miR-1295b-3p may be a potential treatment method for liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangyang Bu
- Department of Hepatobiliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China;,Department of Hepatobiliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, Qingdao, China
| | - Weijie Ding
- Department of Hepatobiliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, Qingdao, China
| | - Shanyuan Guo
- Department of Infectious Disease, Qingdao Central Hospital, Affiliated to Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Yongxin Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, Qingdao, China
| | - Jian Feng
- Department of Hepatobiliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Pengfei Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yongliang Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zhong Ge
- Department of Hepatobiliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, Qingdao, China
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Shen B, Zhou C, Gu T, Shen Z, Guo Y, Dai W, Liu Y, Zhang J, Lu L, Dong H. Kuhuang alleviates liver fibrosis by modulating gut microbiota-mediated hepatic IFN signaling and bile acid synthesis. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:1080226. [PMID: 36582518 PMCID: PMC9792617 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1080226] [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: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Liver fibrosis is a common outcome of the pathological progression of chronic liver disease; however, no specific and effective therapeutic agent has been approved for its treatment. We investigated the effects of Kuhuang on liver fibrosis and the underlying mechanisms of action. Materials and methods: To induce hepatic fibrosis, either 3,5-diethoxycarbonyl-1,4-dihydro-collidine (DDC) diet was administered, or bile duct ligation (BDL) surgery was performed on C57BL/6 mice. Kuhuang was orally administered to mice for 7 days before and after bile duct ligation or 4 weeks with a DDC diet. Hematoxylin and eosin, Sirius red staining, and immunohistochemical analyses were performed to evaluate hepatic pathology. Hepatic interferon-β (IFN-β) levels were measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. RNA sequencing was performed to examine the gene expression profiles of liver tissues. The mRNA expression of inflammatory, profibrotic, and bile acid (BA)-related genes was further validated by qRT-PCR. A targeted metabolomics assay revealed the alteration of the hepatic bile acid (BA) composition. The composition of the gut microbiota was determined via 16S rRNA sequencing. Results: Treatment with Kuhuang attenuated liver fibrosis and reduced the inflammatory response in bile duct ligation and DDC mouse models. In addition, the hepatic IFN signaling pathway was activated following Kuhuang treatment. Kuhuang treatment also significantly decreased hepatic levels of both primary and secondary BAs. In addition, Kuhuang treatment altered gut microbiota composition, with an increased abundance of interferon-inducing Akkermansia and decreased abundance of bile salt hydrolase-producing Lactobacillus, Clostridium, and Bifidobacterium. Furthermore, the abundance of Akkermansia was positively correlated with the hepatic mRNA expression levels of Ifna4, Ifnb, and Isg15, whereas that of Lactobacillus, Clostridium - sensu - stricto - 1, and Bifidobacterium was positively correlated with levels of bile acid synthesis-related genes. Conclusion: Our results suggest that Kuhuang plays a protective role during the progression of liver fibrosis, potentially by altering the composition of the gut microbiota, which consequently activates interferon signaling and inhibits bile acid synthesis in the liver.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Shen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Cui Zhou
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Tianyi Gu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhenyang Shen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuecheng Guo
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Weiming Dai
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yang Liu
- Suzhou Leiyunshang Pharmacology Group, Shanghai, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- Suzhou Leiyunshang Pharmacology Group, Shanghai, China
| | - Lungen Lu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China,*Correspondence: Lungen Lu, ; Hui Dong,
| | - Hui Dong
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China,*Correspondence: Lungen Lu, ; Hui Dong,
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Huang P, Ma H, Cao Y, Zhan T, Zhang T, Wang X, Zhang Y, Xu J, Xia C. Activation of primary hepatic stellate cells and liver fibrosis induced by targeting TGF-β1/Smad signaling in schistosomiasis in mice. Parasit Vectors 2022; 15:456. [PMID: 36474240 PMCID: PMC9727849 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-022-05584-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In mice, liver fibrosis is the most serious pathologic change during Schistosoma japonicum (S. japonicum) infection. Schistosomiasis is mainly characterized by schistosome egg-induced granulomatous fibrosis. Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are mainly responsible for the net accumulation of collagens and fibrosis formation in the liver. Activated HSCs regulated by transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1)/Smad signaling have emerged as the critical regulatory pathway in hepatitis virus or carbon tetrachloride-induced liver fibrosis. However, the detailed mechanism of HSC activation in schistosome-induced liver fibrosis is poorly understood. METHODS Schistosoma japonicum-induced murine models and a control group were generated by abdominal infection with 15 (± 1) cercariae. The purity of cultured primary HSCs was evaluated by immunocytochemistry. The histopathological changes in the livers of infected mice were estimated by hematoxylin-eosin and Masson staining. Dynamic expression of pro-fibrotic molecules and microRNAs was detected by real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). Mainly members involved in the TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway were examined via RT-qPCR and Western blot. RESULTS The egg-induced granulomatous inflammation formed at 4 weeks post-infection (wpi) and developed progressively. Alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), collagen I, collagen III, TGF-β1, Smad2, Smad3, and Smad4 showed a significant increase in mitochondrial RNA (mRNA) and protein expression compared with the control group at 7 and 9 weeks post-infection (wpi), while an opposite effect on Smad7 was observed. In addition, the mRNA expression of microRNA-21 (miRNA-21) was significantly increased at 7 wpi, and the mRNA expression of miRNA-454 was decreased starting from 4 wpi. CONCLUSION Our present findings revealed that HSCs regulated by the TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway play an important role in liver fibrosis in S. japonicum-infected mice, which may provide proof of concept for liver fibrosis in schistosomiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Huang
- grid.263761.70000 0001 0198 0694Department of Pathogen Biology, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, 199 Renai Road, Suzhou, 215123 Jiangsu China
| | - Huihui Ma
- grid.263761.70000 0001 0198 0694Department of Pathogen Biology, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, 199 Renai Road, Suzhou, 215123 Jiangsu China
| | - Yun Cao
- grid.263761.70000 0001 0198 0694Department of Pathogen Biology, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, 199 Renai Road, Suzhou, 215123 Jiangsu China ,grid.252957.e0000 0001 1484 5512Department of Laboratory Medicine, Bengbu Medical College, 2600 Donghai Road, Bengbu, 23303 Anhui China
| | - Tingzheng Zhan
- grid.263761.70000 0001 0198 0694Department of Pathogen Biology, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, 199 Renai Road, Suzhou, 215123 Jiangsu China ,grid.256607.00000 0004 1798 2653Department of Pathogen Biology, Guangxi Medical University, 22 Shuangyong Road, Nanning, 530021 Guangxi China
| | - Tingting Zhang
- grid.263761.70000 0001 0198 0694Department of Pathogen Biology, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, 199 Renai Road, Suzhou, 215123 Jiangsu China
| | - Xinyi Wang
- grid.263761.70000 0001 0198 0694Department of Pathogen Biology, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, 199 Renai Road, Suzhou, 215123 Jiangsu China
| | - Yanan Zhang
- grid.263761.70000 0001 0198 0694Department of Pathogen Biology, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, 199 Renai Road, Suzhou, 215123 Jiangsu China
| | - Jing Xu
- grid.263761.70000 0001 0198 0694Department of Pathogen Biology, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, 199 Renai Road, Suzhou, 215123 Jiangsu China
| | - Chaoming Xia
- grid.263761.70000 0001 0198 0694Department of Pathogen Biology, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, 199 Renai Road, Suzhou, 215123 Jiangsu China
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Liu X, Bai M, Li H, Ye P, Duan X, Wu C, Huang Z, Lu S, Zhang J, Zhao Z, Guo F, You R, Qin W, Wang W, Han A, Shen L, Wang Y, Zhao Z, Luo H, Wu J. Single-cell RNA-sequencing uncovers compound kushen injection synergistically improves the efficacy of chemotherapy by modulating the tumor environment of breast cancer. Front Immunol 2022; 13:965342. [DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.965342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BackgroundDue to lack of enough specific targets and the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), TNBC patients often cannot benefit from a single treatment option. This study aims to explore the regulatory effects of Compound kushen injection (CKI) plus chemotherapy on the TME of TNBC from a single cell level.MethodsA mouse TNBC model in BALB/c mice was established to evaluate the antitumor efficacy and toxicity of CKI combined with chemotherapy. Flow cytometry was used to observe the influence of CKI on the lymphocyte populations in the tumor bearing mice. Both bulk RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) and single-cell RNA-seq (scRNA-seq) were applied to portray the modulation of CKI combined with chemotherapy on the TME of TNBC mice.ResultsCKI significantly enhanced the anticancer activity of chemotherapy in vivo with no obvious side effects. Flow cytometry results revealed a significantly higher activation of CD8+ T lymphocytes in the spleens and tumors of the mice with combination therapy. Bulk RNA-seq indicated that CKI could promote the cytotoxic immune cell infiltrating into tumor tissues. Meanwhile, scRNA-seq further revealed that CKI combined with chemotherapy could enhance the percentage of tumor-infiltrating CD8+ T cells, inhibit tumor-promoting signaling pathways, and promote T cell activation and positive regulation of immune response. In addition, CKI showed obvious anticancer activity against MDA-MB-231 breast tumor cells in vitro.ConclusionsThe combination of CKI and chemotherapy might provide a higher efficiency and lower toxicity strategy than a single chemotherapy drug for TNBC. CKI potentiates the anti-TNBC effects of chemotherapy by activating anti-tumor immune response in mice.
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Tang M, Guo C, Sun M, Zhou H, Peng X, Dai J, Ding Q, Wang Y, Yang C. Effective delivery of osteopontin small interference RNA using exosomes suppresses liver fibrosis via TGF-β1 signaling. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:882243. [PMID: 36120332 PMCID: PMC9478741 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.882243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective and aims: Osteopontin (OPN), an oxidant stress sensitive cytokine, plays a central role in liver fibrosis. While OPN expression can be reduced by small interfering RNA (siRNA), the challenge to deliver siRNA safely and effectively into liver remains unresolved. Exosomes are promising natural nanocarriers for drug delivery that are able to enter cells with different biological barriers efficiently. In this study, we used exosomes as a delivery vehicle to target OPN in liver fibrosis. Methods: Exosomes selectively home to fibrotic liver according to small animal imaging system. Electroporation technique was used to engineer exosomes to carry siRNA targeting OPN (ExosiRNA−OPN). Primary hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) were isolated and treated with ExosiRNA−OPN to assess the effect on activated HSCs (aHSCs). Immunofluorescence for α−SMA, an aHSCs marker, and sirius red staining were performed to assess ECM deposition. Finally, plasma OPN from patients with liver fibrosis was identified by ELISA assay. Results: Exosome-mediated siRNA delivery systems show high uptake and low toxicity. Besides, ExosiRNA−OPN suppressed HSCs activation and ECM deposition and more efficiently improved liver function when compared to naked siRNA-OPN. Moreover, ExosiRNA−OPN was assumed inhibiting TGF-β1 signaling activation, along with other fibrotic-related genes based on a GEO datasheet of liver fibrosis samples for correlation analyzes. ExosiRNA−OPN inhibited TGF-β1 signaling by decreasing high-mobility group box-1 (HMGB1). Plasma proteins from chronic HBV-induced fibrosis patients were identified that patients with high OPN expression correlates with more advanced fibrosis progression. Discussion: This study shows that exosome-mediated siRNA-OPN delivery may be an effective option for the treatment of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Tang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Digestive Disease Institute, Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Cheng Guo
- Endoscopy Center, Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji UniversityShanghai, China
| | - Mengxue Sun
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Digestive Disease Institute, Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hao Zhou
- Affiliated Hangzhou Chest Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xin Peng
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Technologies Enabling Development of Clinical Therapeutics and Diagnostics, School of Pharmacy, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Jianli Dai
- Biology Department of Pharmaron Beijing Co., Ltd., Beijing, China
| | - Qin Ding
- Nutrition Department, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital Affiliated to Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ying Wang
- Department of Infection Management, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Changqing Yang, ; Ying Wang,
| | - Changqing Yang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Digestive Disease Institute, Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Changqing Yang, ; Ying Wang,
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Li WQ, Liu WH, Qian D, Liu J, Zhou SQ, Zhang L, Peng W, Su L, Zhang H. Traditional Chinese medicine: An important source for discovering candidate agents against hepatic fibrosis. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:962525. [PMID: 36081936 PMCID: PMC9445813 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.962525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis (HF) refers to the pathophysiological process of connective tissue dysplasia in the liver caused by various pathogenic factors. Nowadays, HF is becoming a severe threat to the health of human being. However, the drugs available for treating HF are limited. Currently, increasing natural agents derived from traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) have been found to be beneficial for HF. A systemic literature search was conducted from PubMed, GeenMedical, Sci-Hub, CNKI, Google Scholar and Baidu Scholar, with the keywords of “traditional Chinese medicine,” “herbal medicine,” “natural agents,” “liver diseases,” and “hepatic fibrosis.” So far, more than 76 natural monomers have been isolated and identified from the TCMs with inhibitory effect on HF, including alkaloids, flavones, quinones, terpenoids, saponins, phenylpropanoids, and polysaccharides, etc. The anti-hepatic fibrosis effects of these compounds include hepatoprotection, inhibition of hepatic stellate cells (HSC) activation, regulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) synthesis & secretion, regulation of autophagy, and antioxidant & anti-inflammation, etc. Natural compounds and extracts from TCMs are promising agents for the prevention and treatment of HF, and this review would be of great significance to development of novel drugs for treating HF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Qing Li
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wen-Hao Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, Tenth People’s Hospital of Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Die Qian
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Jia Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Shi-Qiong Zhou
- Hospital of Nursing, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Yueyang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Peng
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Wei Peng, ; Li Su, ; Hong Zhang,
| | - Li Su
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Wei Peng, ; Li Su, ; Hong Zhang,
| | - Hong Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Wei Peng, ; Li Su, ; Hong Zhang,
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Shi Q, Wei S, Li ZC, Xu J, Li Y, Guo C, Wu X, Shi C, Di G. Collagen-binding fibroblast growth factor ameliorates liver fibrosis in murine bile duct ligation injury. J Biomater Appl 2022; 37:918-929. [PMID: 35969638 DOI: 10.1177/08853282221121861] [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: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Cholestatic liver injury, characterized by liver fibrosis, has increasingly become a global health problem, with no effective treatment available. Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) differentiate into myofibroblasts, leading to excessive deposition of the extracellular matrix (ECM), which is a feature of liver fibrosis. Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) has proven antifibrotic effects in chronic liver disease; however, the lack of an effective delivery system to the injury site reduces its therapeutic efficacy. The aim of this study was to assess the therapeutic effect of collagen-binding bFGF (CBD-bFGF) for the treatment of liver fibrosis in a murine bile duct ligation (BDL) model. We found that CBD-bFGF treatment significantly alleviated liver injury in the early phase of BDL injury, and was associated with decreased necroptotic cell death and inflammatory response. Moreover, CBD-bFGF had enhanced therapeutic effects for liver fibrosis on day 7 after surgery compared to those obtained with native bFGF treatment. In vitro, CBD-bFGF treatment notably inhibited TGF-β1-induced LX-2 cell activation, migration, and contraction compared with native bFGF. In conclusion, CBD-bFGF may be a promising treatment for hepatic fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiangqiang Shi
- School of Basic Medicine, Medical College, 12593Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Susu Wei
- School of Basic Medicine, Medical College, 12593Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Zhi Chao Li
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, 12593Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Jing Xu
- School of Basic Medicine, Medical College, 12593Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Yaxin Li
- School of Basic Medicine, Medical College, 12593Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Chuanlong Guo
- College of Chemical Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao, China
| | - Xianggen Wu
- College of Chemical Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao, China
| | - Chunying Shi
- School of Basic Medicine, Medical College, 12593Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Guohu Di
- School of Basic Medicine, Medical College, 12593Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
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Yang X, Jiang Z, Li Y, Zhang Y, Han Y, Gao L. Non-coding RNAs regulating epithelial-mesenchymal transition: Research progress in liver disease. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 150:112972. [PMID: 35447551 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.112972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic liver injury could gradually progress to liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and even hepatic carcinoma without effective treatment. The massive production and activation of abnormal cell differentiation is vital to the procession of liver diseases. Epithelial-mesenchymal transformation (EMT) is a biological process in which differentiated epithelial cells lose their epithelial characteristics and acquire mesenchymal cell migration capacity. Emerging evidence suggests that EMT not only occurs in the process of hepatocellular carcinogenesis, but also appears in liver cells transforming to myofibroblasts, a core event of liver disease. Non-coding RNA (ncRNA) such as microRNA (miRNA), long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) and circular RNA (circRNA) are important regulatory factors in EMT, which can regulate target gene expression by binding with RNA single-stranded. Various studies had shown that ncRNA regulation of EMT plays a key role in liver disease development, and many effective ncRNAs have been identified as promising biomarkers for the diagnosis and treatment of liver disease. In this review, we focus on the relationship between the different ncRNAs and EMT as well as the specific molecular mechanism in the liver diseases to enrich the pathological progress of liver diseases and provide reference for the treatment of liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Yang
- Zhangjiagang TCM Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Suzhou, China.
| | - Zhitao Jiang
- Zhangjiagang TCM Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Suzhou, China
| | - Yang Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Yingchun Zhang
- Zhangjiagang TCM Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Suzhou, China
| | - Yi Han
- Zhangjiagang TCM Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Suzhou, China
| | - Liyuan Gao
- Zhangjiagang TCM Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Suzhou, China.
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Li Y, Wang K, Chen Y, Cai J, Qin X, Lu A, Guan D, Qin G, Chen W. A System Pharmacology Model for Decoding the Synergistic Mechanisms of Compound Kushen Injection in Treating Breast Cancer. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:723147. [PMID: 34899291 PMCID: PMC8660088 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.723147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is one of the most common malignant tumors among women worldwide and can be treated using various methods; however, side effects of these treatments cannot be ignored. Increasing evidence indicates that compound kushen injection (CKI) can be used to treat BC. However, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is characterized by “multi-components” and “multi-targets”, which make it challenging to clarify the potential therapeutic mechanisms of CKI on BC. Herein, we designed a novel system pharmacology strategy using differentially expressed gene analysis, pharmacokinetics synthesis screening, target identification, network analysis, and docking validation to construct the synergy contribution degree (SCD) and therapeutic response index (TRI) model to capture the critical components responding to synergistic mechanisms of CKI in BC. Through our designed mathematical models, we defined 24 components as a high contribution group of synergistic components (HCGSC) from 113 potentially active components of CKI based on ADME parameters. Pathway enrichment analysis of HCGSC targets indicated that Rhizoma Heterosmilacis and Radix Sophorae Flavescentis could synergistically target the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway and the cAMP signaling pathway to treat BC. Additionally, TRI analysis showed that the average affinity of HCGSC and targets involved in the key pathways reached -6.47 kcal/mmol, while in vitro experiments proved that two of the three high TRI-scored components in the HCGSC showed significant inhibitory effects on breast cancer cell proliferation and migration. These results demonstrate the accuracy and reliability of the proposed strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Li
- Department of Radiology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kexin Wang
- Institute of Integrated Bioinformedicine and Translational Science, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong SAR, China.,Neurosurgery Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory on Brain Function Repair and Regeneration, Department of Cerebrovascular Surgery, Engineering Technology Research Center of Education Ministry of China on Diagnosis and Treatment of Cerebrovascular Disease, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yupeng Chen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Key Laboratory of Biochip Technology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jieqi Cai
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Key Laboratory of Biochip Technology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xuemei Qin
- Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Aiping Lu
- Institute of Integrated Bioinformedicine and Translational Science, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Daogang Guan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Key Laboratory of Biochip Technology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Genggeng Qin
- Department of Radiology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Weiguo Chen
- Department of Radiology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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Chen F, Li J, Wang H, Ba Q. Anti-Tumor Effects of Chinese Medicine Compounds by Regulating Immune Cells in Microenvironment. Front Oncol 2021; 11:746917. [PMID: 34722304 PMCID: PMC8551633 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.746917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
As the main cause of death in the world, cancer is one of the major health threats for humans. In recent years, traditional Chinese medicine has gained great attention in oncology due to the features of multi-targets, multi-pathways, and slight side effects. Moreover, lots of traditional Chinese medicine can exert immunomodulatory effects in vivo. In the tumor microenvironment, tumor cells, immune cells as well as other stromal cells often coexist. With the development of cancer, tumor cells proliferate uncontrollably, metastasize aggressively, and modulate the proportion and status of immune cells to debilitate the antitumor immunity. Reversal of immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment plays an essential role in cancer prevention and therapy. Immunotherapy has become the most promising strategy for cancer therapy. Chinese medicine compounds can stimulate the activation and function of immune cells, such as promoting the maturation of dendritic cells and inducing the differentiation of myeloid-derived suppressor cells to dendritic cells and macrophages. In the present review, we summarize and discuss the effects of Chinese medicine compounds on immune cells in the tumor microenvironment, including innate immune cells (dendritic cells, natural killer cells, macrophages, and myeloid-derived suppressor cells) and adaptive immune cells (CD4+/CD8+ T lymphocytes and regulatory T cells), and the various immunomodulatory roles of Chinese medicine compounds in cancer therapy such as improving tumor-derived inflammation, enhancing the immunity after surgery or chemotherapy, blocking the immune checkpoints, et al., aiming to provide more thoughts for the anti-tumor mechanisms and applications of Chinese medicine compounds in terms of tumor immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengqian Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jingquan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hui Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Qian Ba
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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