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Karnawat K, Parthasarathy R, Sakhrie M, Karthik H, Krishna KV, Balachander GM. Building in vitro models for mechanistic understanding of liver regeneration in chronic liver diseases. J Mater Chem B 2024. [PMID: 38973693 DOI: 10.1039/d4tb00738g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/09/2024]
Abstract
The liver has excellent regeneration potential and attains complete functional recovery from partial hepatectomy. The regenerative mechanisms malfunction in chronic liver diseases (CLDs), which fuels disease progression. CLDs account for 2 million deaths per year worldwide. Pathophysiological studies with clinical correlation have shown evidence of deviation of normal regenerative mechanisms and its contribution to fueling fibrosis and disease progression. However, we lack realistic in vitro models that can allow experimental manipulation for mechanistic understanding of liver regeneration in CLDs and testing of candidate drugs. In this review, we aim to provide the framework for building appropriate organotypic models for dissecting regenerative responses in CLDs, with the focus on non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). By drawing parallels with development and hepatectomy, we explain the selection of critical components such as cells, signaling, and, substrate-driven biophysical cues to build an appropriate CLD model. We highlight the organoid-based organotypic models available for NASH disease modeling, including organ-on-a-chip and 3D bioprinted models. With the focus on bioprinting as a fabrication method, we prescribe building in vitro CLD models and testing schemes for exploring the regenerative responses in the bioprinted model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khushi Karnawat
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (BHU) Varanasi, Varanasi-221005, India.
| | - Rithika Parthasarathy
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (BHU) Varanasi, Varanasi-221005, India.
| | - Mesevilhou Sakhrie
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (BHU) Varanasi, Varanasi-221005, India.
| | - Harikeshav Karthik
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (BHU) Varanasi, Varanasi-221005, India.
| | - Konatala Vibhuvan Krishna
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (BHU) Varanasi, Varanasi-221005, India.
| | - Gowri Manohari Balachander
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (BHU) Varanasi, Varanasi-221005, India.
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2
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Gribben C, Galanakis V, Calderwood A, Williams EC, Chazarra-Gil R, Larraz M, Frau C, Puengel T, Guillot A, Rouhani FJ, Mahbubani K, Godfrey E, Davies SE, Athanasiadis E, Saeb-Parsy K, Tacke F, Allison M, Mohorianu I, Vallier L. Acquisition of epithelial plasticity in human chronic liver disease. Nature 2024; 630:166-173. [PMID: 38778114 PMCID: PMC11153150 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-024-07465-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
For many adult human organs, tissue regeneration during chronic disease remains a controversial subject. Regenerative processes are easily observed in animal models, and their underlying mechanisms are becoming well characterized1-4, but technical challenges and ethical aspects are limiting the validation of these results in humans. We decided to address this difficulty with respect to the liver. This organ displays the remarkable ability to regenerate after acute injury, although liver regeneration in the context of recurring injury remains to be fully demonstrated. Here we performed single-nucleus RNA sequencing (snRNA-seq) on 47 liver biopsies from patients with different stages of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease to establish a cellular map of the liver during disease progression. We then combined these single-cell-level data with advanced 3D imaging to reveal profound changes in the liver architecture. Hepatocytes lose their zonation and considerable reorganization of the biliary tree takes place. More importantly, our study uncovers transdifferentiation events that occur between hepatocytes and cholangiocytes without the presence of adult stem cells or developmental progenitor activation. Detailed analyses and functional validations using cholangiocyte organoids confirm the importance of the PI3K-AKT-mTOR pathway in this process, thereby connecting this acquisition of plasticity to insulin signalling. Together, our data indicate that chronic injury creates an environment that induces cellular plasticity in human organs, and understanding the underlying mechanisms of this process could open new therapeutic avenues in the management of chronic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Gribben
- Wellcome-MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Open Targets, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, UK
| | - Vasileios Galanakis
- Wellcome-MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Open Targets, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, UK
- Liver Unit, Department of Medicine, Cambridge NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - Alexander Calderwood
- Wellcome-MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Eleanor C Williams
- Wellcome-MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Ruben Chazarra-Gil
- Wellcome-MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Miguel Larraz
- Wellcome-MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Carla Frau
- Berlin Institute of Health Centre for Regenerative Therapies, Berlin, Germany
| | - Tobias Puengel
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Adrien Guillot
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | | | | | - Edmund Godfrey
- Department of Radiology, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, UK
| | - Susan E Davies
- Department of Histopathology, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - Emmanouil Athanasiadis
- Greek Genome Centre, Biomedical Research Foundation of the Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
- Medical Image and Signal Processing Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of West Attica, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Frank Tacke
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Michael Allison
- Open Targets, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, UK.
- Liver Unit, Department of Medicine, Cambridge NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK.
| | - Irina Mohorianu
- Wellcome-MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
| | - Ludovic Vallier
- Wellcome-MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
- Open Targets, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, UK.
- Berlin Institute of Health Centre for Regenerative Therapies, Berlin, Germany.
- Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Berlin, Germany.
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3
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Fan M, Song E, Zhang Y, Zhang P, Huang B, Yan K, Yang W, Chakrabarti S, Mahajan H, Yan S, Xu Y, Hua S, Liu W, Wang C, Xu A, Ye D. Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatohepatitis Detected by Neutrophilic Crown-Like Structures in Morbidly Obese Patients: A Multicenter and Clinicopathological Study. RESEARCH (WASHINGTON, D.C.) 2024; 7:0382. [PMID: 38812532 PMCID: PMC11134285 DOI: 10.34133/research.0382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) is the progressive form of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), and closely associated with a high risk of liver-related morbidity and mortality. Although enhanced neutrophil infiltration of the liver is a histological hallmark of MASH, the morphological pattern of hepatic neutrophils and their relevance to the definition of MASH remain unknown. This clinicopathological study aimed to determine the association of neutrophilic crown-like structures (CLSs) in liver biopsies and evaluate their relevance to the histological diagnosis of MASH. A total of 483 morbidly obese adults who underwent bariatric surgery were recruited. Neutrophilic CLSs in liver biopsies were detected by immunohistochemistry for neutrophil elastase and proteinase 3. All participants were classified into 4 histological subgroups: no MASLD (118, 24.4%), MASLD (76, 15.7%), borderline MASH (185, 38.3%), and definite MASH (104, 21.5%). In the discovery cohort (n = 379), the frequency of neutrophilic CLSs increased in line with the severity of liver disease. The number of neutrophilic CLSs was positively correlated with established histological characteristics of MASH. At a cutoff value of <0.3 per 20× microscopic field, the number of neutrophilic CLSs yielded a robust diagnostic accuracy to discriminate no MASLD and MASLD from borderline MASH and definite MASH; a cutoff at >1.3 per 20× microscopic field exhibited a statistically significant accuracy to distinguish definite MASH from other groups (no MASLD, MASLD, and borderline MASH). The significance of neutrophilic CLSs in identifying borderline MASH and definite MASH was confirmed in an external validation cohort (n = 104). The frequency of neutrophilic CLSs was significantly higher than that of macrophagic CLSs. In conclusion, neutrophilic CLSs in the liver represent a typical histological characteristic of MASH and may serve as a promising indicator to improve the diagnostic accuracy of MASH during histological assessment of liver biopsies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengqi Fan
- Key Laboratory of Metabolic Phenotyping in Model Animals, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Metabolic Disease Research Center of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Erfei Song
- Department of Bariatric Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuying Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics, Shenzhen Longhua Maternity and Child Healthcare Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Pengfei Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Metabolic Phenotyping in Model Animals, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Metabolic Disease Research Center of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bing Huang
- Key Laboratory of Metabolic Phenotyping in Model Animals, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Metabolic Disease Research Center of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kaixuan Yan
- Key Laboratory of Metabolic Phenotyping in Model Animals, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Metabolic Disease Research Center of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wah Yang
- Department of Bariatric Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Subrata Chakrabarti
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Hema Mahajan
- Institute of Clinical Pathology and Medical Research, Pathology West, NSW Health Pathology, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Sen Yan
- Dr. Everett Chalmers Hospital, Fredericton, NB, Canada
| | - Ying Xu
- School of Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shuang Hua
- Key Laboratory of Metabolic Phenotyping in Model Animals, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Metabolic Disease Research Center of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wei Liu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Cunchuan Wang
- Department of Bariatric Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Aimin Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Department of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Dewei Ye
- Key Laboratory of Metabolic Phenotyping in Model Animals, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Metabolic Disease Research Center of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
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Alghamdi W, Mosli M, Alqahtani SA. Gut microbiota in MAFLD: therapeutic and diagnostic implications. Ther Adv Endocrinol Metab 2024; 15:20420188241242937. [PMID: 38628492 PMCID: PMC11020731 DOI: 10.1177/20420188241242937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), formerly known as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, is becoming a significant contributor to chronic liver disease globally, surpassing other etiologies, such as viral hepatitis. Prevention and early treatment strategies to curb its growing prevalence are urgently required. Recent evidence suggests that targeting the gut microbiota may help treat and alleviate disease progression in patients with MAFLD. This review aims to explore the complex relationship between MAFLD and the gut microbiota in relation to disease pathogenesis. Additionally, it delves into the therapeutic strategies targeting the gut microbiota, such as diet, exercise, antibiotics, probiotics, synbiotics, glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, and fecal microbiota transplantation, and discusses novel biomarkers, such as microbiota-derived testing and liquid biopsy, for their diagnostic and staging potential. Overall, the review emphasizes the urgent need for preventive and therapeutic strategies to address the devastating consequences of MAFLD at both individual and societal levels and recognizes that further exploration of the gut microbiota may open avenues for managing MAFLD effectively in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Waleed Alghamdi
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mahmoud Mosli
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saleh A. Alqahtani
- Organ Transplant Center of Excellence, King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Center, Riyadh 11211, Saudi Arabia
- Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Meyer M, Schwärzler J, Jukic A, Tilg H. Innate Immunity and MASLD. Biomolecules 2024; 14:476. [PMID: 38672492 PMCID: PMC11048298 DOI: 10.3390/biom14040476] [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: 03/20/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) has emerged as the most common liver disease worldwide in recent years. MASLD commonly presents as simple hepatic steatosis, but ~25% of patients develop liver inflammation, progressive fibrosis, liver cirrhosis and related hepatocellular carcinoma. Liver inflammation and the degree of fibrosis are key determinants of the prognosis. The pathophysiology of liver inflammation is incompletely understood and involves diverse factors and specifically innate and adaptive immune responses. More specifically, diverse mediators of innate immunity such as proinflammatory cytokines, adipokines, inflammasomes and various cell types like mononuclear cells, macrophages and natural killer cells are involved in directing the inflammatory process in MASLD. The activation of innate immunity is driven by various factors including excess lipids and lipotoxicity, insulin resistance and molecular patterns derived from gut commensals. Targeting pathways of innate immunity might therefore appear as an attractive therapeutic strategy in the future management of MASLD and possibly its complications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Herbert Tilg
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology & Metabolism, Medical University Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria; (M.M.); (A.J.)
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6
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Pinto AT, Lukacs-Kornek V. The role of dendritic cells in MASH: friends or foes? Front Immunol 2024; 15:1379225. [PMID: 38650949 PMCID: PMC11033439 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1379225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Dendritic cells (DCs) are major antigen-presenting cells that connect innate and adaptive immunity. Hepatic DCs are less activated and contribute to maintain the tolerogenic environment of the liver under steady state. Several studies indicated DCs in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), representing a substantial burden on healthcare systems due to its association with liver-related morbidity and mortality. Studies highlighted the potential disease-promoting role of liver DCs in the development of MASH while other experimental systems suggested their protective role. This review discusses this controversy and the current understanding of how DCs affect the pathogenesis of MASH.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Veronika Lukacs-Kornek
- Institute of Molecular Medicine and Experimental Immunology, University Hospital Bonn of the Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-University, Bonn, Germany
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7
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Moon AN, Briand F, Breyner N, Song DK, Madsen MR, Kim H, Choi K, Lee Y, Namkung W. Improvement of NASH and liver fibrosis through modulation of the gut-liver axis by a novel intestinal FXR agonist. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 173:116331. [PMID: 38428307 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116331] [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: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Farnesoid X receptor (FXR) plays a pivotal role in the regulation of bile acid homeostasis and is involved in the pathogenesis of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Although FXR agonists effectively alleviate pathological features of NASH, adverse effects such as disturbance of cholesterol homeostasis and occurrence of pruritus remain to be addressed. Here, we identified a novel FXR agonist, ID119031166 (ID166), and explored the pharmacological benefits of ID166 in the treatment of NASH. ID166, a potent and selective non-bile acid FXR agonist, exhibits preferential distribution in the intestine and shows no agonist activity against potential itch receptors including Mas-related G protein-coupled receptor X4 (MRGPRX4). Interestingly, ID166 significantly attenuated total nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) activity and liver fibrosis in a free choice diet-induced NASH hamster model. In addition, ID166 drastically modulated the relative abundance of five gut microbes and reduced the increase in plasma total bile acid levels to normal levels in NASH hamsters. Moreover, long-term treatment with ID166 significantly improved key histological features of NASH and liver fibrosis in a diet-induced NASH mouse model. In the NASH mouse livers, RNA-seq analysis revealed that ID166 reduced the gene expression changes associated with both NASH and liver fibrosis. Notably, ID166 exhibited no substantial effects on scratching behavior and serum IL-31 levels in mice. Our findings suggest that ID166, a novel FXR agonist with improved pharmacological properties, provides a preclinical basis to optimize clinical benefits for NASH drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- An-Na Moon
- College of Pharmacy and Yonsei Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Yonsei University, 85 Songdogwahak-ro, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon 21983, South Korea; iLeadBMS Co., Ltd., 614 Dongtangiheung-ro, Hwaseong-si 18469, South Korea
| | - François Briand
- Physiogenex, 280 rue de l'Hers, ZAC de la Masquère, Escalquens 31750, France
| | - Natalia Breyner
- Physiogenex, 280 rue de l'Hers, ZAC de la Masquère, Escalquens 31750, France
| | - Dong-Keun Song
- iLeadBMS Co., Ltd., 614 Dongtangiheung-ro, Hwaseong-si 18469, South Korea
| | | | - Hongbin Kim
- KINS, Korean Institute of Nonclinical Study, 172 Dolma-ro, Bundang-gu, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do 13505, South Korea
| | - Keonwoo Choi
- KINS, Korean Institute of Nonclinical Study, 172 Dolma-ro, Bundang-gu, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do 13505, South Korea
| | - Yoonsuk Lee
- iLeadBMS Co., Ltd., 614 Dongtangiheung-ro, Hwaseong-si 18469, South Korea.
| | - Wan Namkung
- College of Pharmacy and Yonsei Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Yonsei University, 85 Songdogwahak-ro, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon 21983, South Korea.
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Mittelheisser V, Gensbittel V, Bonati L, Li W, Tang L, Goetz JG. Evidence and therapeutic implications of biomechanically regulated immunosurveillance in cancer and other diseases. NATURE NANOTECHNOLOGY 2024; 19:281-297. [PMID: 38286876 DOI: 10.1038/s41565-023-01535-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2024]
Abstract
Disease progression is usually accompanied by changes in the biochemical composition of cells and tissues and their biophysical properties. For instance, hallmarks of cancer include the stiffening of tissues caused by extracellular matrix remodelling and the softening of individual cancer cells. In this context, accumulating evidence has shown that immune cells sense and respond to mechanical signals from the environment. However, the mechanisms regulating these mechanical aspects of immune surveillance remain partially understood. The growing appreciation for the 'mechano-immunology' field has urged researchers to investigate how immune cells sense and respond to mechanical cues in various disease settings, paving the way for the development of novel engineering strategies that aim at mechanically modulating and potentiating immune cells for enhanced immunotherapies. Recent pioneer developments in this direction have laid the foundations for leveraging 'mechanical immunoengineering' strategies to treat various diseases. This Review first outlines the mechanical changes occurring during pathological progression in several diseases, including cancer, fibrosis and infection. We next highlight the mechanosensitive nature of immune cells and how mechanical forces govern the immune responses in different diseases. Finally, we discuss how targeting the biomechanical features of the disease milieu and immune cells is a promising strategy for manipulating therapeutic outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Mittelheisser
- Tumor Biomechanics, INSERM UMR_S1109, Strasbourg, France
- Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
- Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg (FMTS), Strasbourg, France
- Equipe Labellisée Ligue Contre le Cancer, Strasbourg, France
| | - Valentin Gensbittel
- Tumor Biomechanics, INSERM UMR_S1109, Strasbourg, France
- Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
- Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg (FMTS), Strasbourg, France
- Equipe Labellisée Ligue Contre le Cancer, Strasbourg, France
| | - Lucia Bonati
- Institute of Bioengineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Weilin Li
- Institute of Bioengineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Li Tang
- Institute of Bioengineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland.
- Institute of Materials Science and Engineering, EPFL, Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Jacky G Goetz
- Tumor Biomechanics, INSERM UMR_S1109, Strasbourg, France.
- Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France.
- Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg (FMTS), Strasbourg, France.
- Equipe Labellisée Ligue Contre le Cancer, Strasbourg, France.
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Marakovits C, Francis H. Unraveling the complexities of fibrosis and ductular reaction in liver disease: pathogenesis, mechanisms, and therapeutic insights. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2024; 326:C698-C706. [PMID: 38105754 PMCID: PMC11193454 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00486.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Ductular reaction and fibrosis are hallmarks of many liver diseases including primary sclerosing cholangitis, primary biliary cholangitis, biliary atresia, alcoholic liver disease, and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease/metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis. Liver fibrosis is the accumulation of extracellular matrix often caused by excess collagen deposition by myofibroblasts. Ductular reaction is the proliferation of bile ducts (which are composed of cholangiocytes) during liver injury. Many other cells including hepatic stellate cells, hepatocytes, hepatic progenitor cells, mesenchymal stem cells, and immune cells contribute to ductular reaction and fibrosis by either directly or indirectly interacting with myofibroblasts and cholangiocytes. This review summarizes the recent findings in cellular links between ductular reaction and fibrosis in numerous liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corinn Marakovits
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, United States
| | - Heather Francis
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, United States
- Department of Research, Richard L. Roudebush VA Medical Center, Indianapolis, Indiana, United States
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10
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Zhang Y, Tian XL, Li JQ, Wu DS, Li Q, Chen B. Mitochondrial dysfunction affects hepatic immune and metabolic remodeling in patients with hepatitis B virus-related acute-on-chronic liver failure. World J Gastroenterol 2024; 30:881-900. [PMID: 38516248 PMCID: PMC10950637 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v30.i8.881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immune dysregulation and metabolic derangement have been recognized as key factors that contribute to the progression of hepatitis B virus (HBV)-related acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF). However, the mechanisms underlying immune and metabolic derangement in patients with advanced HBV-ACLF are unclear. AIM To identify the bioenergetic alterations in the liver of patients with HBV-ACLF causing hepatic immune dysregulation and metabolic disorders. METHODS Liver samples were collected from 16 healthy donors (HDs) and 17 advanced HBV-ACLF patients who were eligible for liver transplantation. The mitochondrial ultrastructure, metabolic characteristics, and immune microenvironment of the liver were assessed. More focus was given to organic acid metabolism as well as the function and subpopulations of macrophages in patients with HBV-ACLF. RESULTS Compared with HDs, there was extensive hepatocyte necrosis, immune cell infiltration, and ductular reaction in patients with ACLF. In patients, the liver suffered severe hypoxia, as evidenced by increased expression of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α. Swollen mitochondria and cristae were observed in the liver of patients. The number, length, width, and area of mitochondria were adaptively increased in hepatocytes. Targeted metabolomics analysis revealed that mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation decreased, while anaerobic glycolysis was enhanced in patients with HBV-ACLF. These findings suggested that, to a greater extent, hepa-tocytes used the extra-mitochondrial glycolytic pathway as an energy source. Patients with HBV-ACLF had elevated levels of chemokine C-C motif ligand 2 in the liver homogenate, which stimulates peripheral monocyte infiltration into the liver. Characterization and functional analysis of macrophage subsets revealed that patients with ACLF had a high abundance of CD68+ HLA-DR+ macrophages and elevated levels of both interleukin-1β and transforming growth factor-β1 in their livers. The abundance of CD206+ CD163+ macrophages and expression of interleukin-10 decreased. The correlation analysis revealed that hepatic organic acid metabolites were closely associated with macrophage-derived cytokines/chemokines. CONCLUSION The results indicated that bioenergetic alteration driven by hypoxia and mitochondrial dysfunction affects hepatic immune and metabolic remodeling, leading to advanced HBV-ACLF. These findings highlight a new therapeutic target for improving the treatment of HBV-ACLF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhang
- Department of Hepatology, Institute of Hepatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410021, Hunan Province, China
| | - Xiao-Ling Tian
- Department of Hepatology, Institute of Hepatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410021, Hunan Province, China
| | - Jie-Qun Li
- Department of Liver Transplant, Transplant Medical Research Center, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha 410011, Hunan Province, China
| | - Dong-Sheng Wu
- Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410021, Hunan Province, China
| | - Qiang Li
- Department of Liver Transplant, Transplant Medical Research Center, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha 410011, Hunan Province, China
| | - Bin Chen
- Department of Hepatology, Institute of Hepatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410021, Hunan Province, China
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Cabibi D, Giannone AG, Quattrocchi A, Calvaruso V, Porcasi R, Di Grusa D, Pavone AM, Comelli A, Petta S. Quantitative Evaluation by Digital Pathology of Immunohistochemical Expression of CK7, CK19, and EpCAM in Advanced Stages of NASH. Biomedicines 2024; 12:440. [PMID: 38398042 PMCID: PMC10887071 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12020440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2024] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis/Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NASH/NAFLD) is the most recurrent chronic liver disease. NASH could present with a cholestatic (C) or hepatic (H) pattern of damage. Recently, we observed that increased Epithelial Cell Adhesion Molecule (EpCAM) expression was the main immunohistochemical feature to distinguish C from H pattern in NASH. (2) Methods: In the present study, we used digital pathology to compare the quantitative results of digital image analysis by QuPath software (Q-results), with the semi-quantitative results of observer assessment (S-results) for cytokeratin 7 and 19, (CK7, CK19) as well as EpCAM expression. Patients were classified into H or C group on the basis of the ratio between alanine transaminase (ALT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) values, using the "R-ratio formula". (3) Results: Q- and S-results showed a significant correlation for all markers (p < 0.05). Q-EpCAM expression was significantly higher in the C group than in the H group (p < 0.05). Importantly ALP, an indicator of hepatobiliary disorder, was the only biochemical parameter significantly correlated with Q-EpCAM. Instead, Q-CK7, but not Q-CK19, correlated only with γGlutamyl-Transferase (γGT). Of note, Stage 4 fibrosis correlated with Q-EpCAM, Q-CK19, and ALP but not with γGT or ALT. Conclusions: Image analysis confirms the relation between cholestatic-like pattern, associated with a worse prognosis, with increased ALP values, EpCAM positive biliary metaplasia, and advanced fibrosis. These preliminary data could be useful for the implementation of AI algorithms for the assessment of cholestatic NASH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Cabibi
- Unit of Anatomic Pathology, Department of Health Promotion Mother and Child Care Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University Hospital AOU Policlinico “P. Giaccone”, University of Palermo, Via del Vespro 129, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (D.C.); (A.Q.); (R.P.)
| | - Antonino Giulio Giannone
- Unit of Anatomic Pathology, Department of Health Promotion Mother and Child Care Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University Hospital AOU Policlinico “P. Giaccone”, University of Palermo, Via del Vespro 129, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (D.C.); (A.Q.); (R.P.)
| | - Alberto Quattrocchi
- Unit of Anatomic Pathology, Department of Health Promotion Mother and Child Care Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University Hospital AOU Policlinico “P. Giaccone”, University of Palermo, Via del Vespro 129, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (D.C.); (A.Q.); (R.P.)
| | - Vincenza Calvaruso
- Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Health Promotion Mother and Child Care Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University Hospital AOU Policlinico “P. Giaccone”, University of Palermo, Via del Vespro 129, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Rossana Porcasi
- Unit of Anatomic Pathology, Department of Health Promotion Mother and Child Care Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University Hospital AOU Policlinico “P. Giaccone”, University of Palermo, Via del Vespro 129, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (D.C.); (A.Q.); (R.P.)
| | - Domenico Di Grusa
- Unit of Anatomic Pathology, Department of Health Promotion Mother and Child Care Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University Hospital AOU Policlinico “P. Giaccone”, University of Palermo, Via del Vespro 129, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (D.C.); (A.Q.); (R.P.)
| | - Anna Maria Pavone
- Ri.MED Foundation, Via Bandiera 11, 90133 Palermo, Italy; (A.M.P.); (A.C.)
| | - Albert Comelli
- Ri.MED Foundation, Via Bandiera 11, 90133 Palermo, Italy; (A.M.P.); (A.C.)
| | - Salvatore Petta
- Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Health Promotion Mother and Child Care Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University Hospital AOU Policlinico “P. Giaccone”, University of Palermo, Via del Vespro 129, 90127 Palermo, Italy
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12
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Wang X, Zhang L, Dong B. Molecular mechanisms in MASLD/MASH-related HCC. Hepatology 2024:01515467-990000000-00739. [PMID: 38349726 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
Liver cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths and ranks as the sixth most prevalent cancer type globally. NAFLD or metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease, and its more severe manifestation, NASH or metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), pose a significant global health concern, affecting approximately 20%-25% of the population. The increased prevalence of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease and MASH is parallel to the increasing rates of obesity-associated metabolic diseases, including type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance, and fatty liver diseases. MASH can progress to MASH-related HCC (MASH-HCC) in about 2% of cases each year, influenced by various factors such as genetic mutations, carcinogen exposure, immune microenvironment, and microbiome. MASH-HCC exhibits distinct molecular and immune characteristics compared to other causes of HCC and affects both men and women equally. The management of early to intermediate-stage MASH-HCC typically involves surgery and locoregional therapies, while advanced HCC is treated with systemic therapies, including anti-angiogenic therapies and immune checkpoint inhibitors. In this comprehensive review, we consolidate previous research findings while also providing the most current insights into the intricate molecular processes underlying MASH-HCC development. We delve into MASH-HCC-associated genetic variations and somatic mutations, disease progression and research models, multiomics analysis, immunological and microenvironmental impacts, and discuss targeted/combined therapies to overcome immune evasion and the biomarkers to recognize treatment responders. By furthering our comprehension of the molecular mechanisms underlying MASH-HCC, our goal is to catalyze the advancement of more potent treatment strategies, ultimately leading to enhanced patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaobo Wang
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Liang Zhang
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Bingning Dong
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
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13
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English K, Kwan R, Holz LE, McGuffog C, Krol JMM, Kempe D, Kaisho T, Heath WR, Lisowski L, Biro M, McCaughan GW, Bowen DG, Bertolino P. A hepatic network of dendritic cells mediates CD4 T cell help outside lymphoid organs. Nat Commun 2024; 15:1261. [PMID: 38341416 PMCID: PMC10858872 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-45612-5] [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: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
While CD4+ T cells are a prerequisite for CD8+ T cell-mediated protection against intracellular hepatotropic pathogens, the mechanisms facilitating the transfer of CD4-help to intrahepatic CD8+ T cells are unknown. Here, we developed an experimental system to investigate cognate CD4+ and CD8+ T cell responses to a model-antigen expressed de novo in hepatocytes and reveal that after initial priming, effector CD4+ and CD8+ T cells migrate into portal tracts and peri-central vein regions of the liver where they cluster with type-1 conventional dendritic cells. These dendritic cells are locally licensed by CD4+ T cells and expand the number of CD8+ T cells in situ, resulting in larger effector and memory CD8+ T cell pools. These findings reveal that CD4+ T cells promote intrahepatic immunity by amplifying the CD8+ T cell response via peripheral licensing of hepatic type-1 conventional dendritic cells and identify intrahepatic perivascular compartments specialized in facilitating effector T cell-dendritic cell interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kieran English
- Centenary Institute and The University of Sydney, AW Morrow Gastroenterology and Liver Centre, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- VIB-UGent Center for Inflammation Research, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Rain Kwan
- Centenary Institute and The University of Sydney, AW Morrow Gastroenterology and Liver Centre, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Lauren E Holz
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology at The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Claire McGuffog
- Centenary Institute and The University of Sydney, AW Morrow Gastroenterology and Liver Centre, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Jelte M M Krol
- Centenary Institute and The University of Sydney, AW Morrow Gastroenterology and Liver Centre, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Daryan Kempe
- EMBL Australia, Single Molecule Science node, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Tsuneyasu Kaisho
- Department of Immunology, Institute of Advanced Medicine, Wakayama Medical University, Wakayama, Japan
| | - William R Heath
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology at The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Leszek Lisowski
- Children's Medical Research Institute, Translational Vectorology Research Unit, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW, Australia
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology and Innovative Therapies, Military Institute of Medicine, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Maté Biro
- EMBL Australia, Single Molecule Science node, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Geoffrey W McCaughan
- Centenary Institute and The University of Sydney, AW Morrow Gastroenterology and Liver Centre, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - David G Bowen
- Centenary Institute and The University of Sydney, AW Morrow Gastroenterology and Liver Centre, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
| | - Patrick Bertolino
- Centenary Institute and The University of Sydney, AW Morrow Gastroenterology and Liver Centre, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
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14
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Wu J, Pan J, Zhou W, Ji G, Dang Y. The role of N6-methyladenosine in macrophage polarization: A novel treatment strategy for non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 171:116145. [PMID: 38198958 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116145] [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: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
RNA methylation modifications, as a widespread type of modification in eukaryotic cells, especially N6-methyladenosine (m6A), are associated with many activities in organisms, including macrophage polarization and progression of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Macrophages in the liver are of diverse origin and complex phenotype, exhibiting different functions in development of NASH. In the review, we discuss the functions of m6A and m6A-related enzymes in macrophage polarization. Furthermore, we retrospect the role of macrophage polarization in NASH. Finally, we discuss the prospects of m6A in macrophages and NASH, and provide guidance for the treatment of NASH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaxuan Wu
- Institute of Digestive Diseases, Longhua Hospital, China-Canada Center of Research for Digestive Diseases (ccCRDD), Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Jiashu Pan
- Institute of Digestive Diseases, Longhua Hospital, China-Canada Center of Research for Digestive Diseases (ccCRDD), Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Wenjun Zhou
- Institute of Digestive Diseases, Longhua Hospital, China-Canada Center of Research for Digestive Diseases (ccCRDD), Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Guang Ji
- Institute of Digestive Diseases, Longhua Hospital, China-Canada Center of Research for Digestive Diseases (ccCRDD), Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China.
| | - Yanqi Dang
- Institute of Digestive Diseases, Longhua Hospital, China-Canada Center of Research for Digestive Diseases (ccCRDD), Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China.
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15
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Shiraishi S, Liu J, Saito Y, Oba Y, Nishihara Y, Yoshimura S. A New Non-Obese Steatohepatitis Mouse Model with Cardiac Dysfunction Induced by Addition of Ethanol to a High-Fat/High-Cholesterol Diet. BIOLOGY 2024; 13:91. [PMID: 38392309 PMCID: PMC10886349 DOI: 10.3390/biology13020091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
Non-obese metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) has been associated with cardiovascular-related mortality, leading to a higher mortality rate compared to the general population. However, few reports have examined cardiovascular events in non-obese MASLD mouse models. In this study we created a mouse model to mimic this condition. In this study involving seven-week-old C57BL/6J male mice, two dietary conditions were tested: a standard high-fat/high-cholesterol diet (STHD-01) and a combined diet of STHD-01 and ethanol. Over periods of 6 and 12 weeks, we analyzed the effects on liver and cardiac tissues using various staining techniques and PCR. Echocardiography and blood tests were also performed to assess cardiac function and liver damage. The results showed that mice on the ethanol-supplemented STHD-01 diet developed signs of steatohepatitis and cardiac dysfunction, along with increased sympathetic activity, as early as 6 weeks. At 12 weeks, more pronounced exacerbations accompanied with cardiac dilation, advanced liver fibrosis, and activated myocardial fibrosis with sympathetic activation were observed. This mouse model effectively replicated non-obese MASLD and cardiac dysfunction over a 12-week period using a combined diet of STHD-01 and ethanol. This dietary approach highlighted that both liver inflammation and fibrosis, as well as cardiac dysfunction, could be significantly worsened due to the activation of the sympathetic nervous system. Our results indicate that alcohol, even when completely metabolized on the day of drinking, exacerbates the progression of non-obese MASLD and cardiac dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seiji Shiraishi
- Exploratory Research Department, EA Pharma Co., Ltd., Fujisawa-shi 251-8555, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Jinyao Liu
- Student Medical Academia Investigation Lab, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Ube 755-8505, Yamaguchi, Japan
| | - Yuki Saito
- Exploratory Research Department, EA Pharma Co., Ltd., Fujisawa-shi 251-8555, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Yumiko Oba
- Student Medical Academia Investigation Lab, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Ube 755-8505, Yamaguchi, Japan
| | - Yuiko Nishihara
- Exploratory Research Department, EA Pharma Co., Ltd., Fujisawa-shi 251-8555, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Satomichi Yoshimura
- Student Medical Academia Investigation Lab, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Ube 755-8505, Yamaguchi, Japan
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16
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Parola M, Pinzani M. Liver fibrosis in NAFLD/NASH: from pathophysiology towards diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. Mol Aspects Med 2024; 95:101231. [PMID: 38056058 DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2023.101231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis, as an excess deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) components, results from chronic liver injury as well as persistent activation of inflammatory response and of fibrogenesis. Liver fibrosis is a major determinant for chronic liver disease (CLD) progression and in the last two decades our understanding on the major molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying the fibrogenic progression of CLD has dramatically improved, boosting pre-clinical studies and clinical trials designed to find novel therapeutic approaches. From these studies several critical concepts have emerged, starting to reveal the complexity of the pro-fibrotic microenvironment which involves very complex, dynamic and interrelated interactions between different hepatic and extrahepatic cell populations. This review will offer first a recapitulation of established and novel pathophysiological basic principles and concepts by intentionally focus the attention on NAFLD/NASH, a metabolic-related form of CLD with a high impact on the general population and emerging as a leading cause of CLD worldwide. NAFLD/NASH-related pro-inflammatory and profibrogenic mechanisms will be analysed as well as novel information on cells, mediators and signalling pathways which have taken advantage from novel methodological approaches and techniques (single cell genomics, imaging mass cytometry, novel in vitro two- and three-dimensional models, etc.). We will next offer an overview on recent advancement in diagnostic and prognostic tools, including serum biomarkers and polygenic scores, to support the analysis of liver biopsies. Finally, this review will provide an analysis of current and emerging therapies for the treatment of NAFLD/NASH patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maurizio Parola
- Dept. Clinical and Biological Sciences, Unit of Experimental Medicine and Clinical Pathology, University of Torino, Corso Raffaello 30, 10125, Torino, Italy.
| | - Massimo Pinzani
- UCL Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, Division of Medicine - Royal Free Hospital, London, NW32PF, United Kingdom.
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17
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Meyniel-Schicklin L, Amaudrut J, Mallinjoud P, Guillier F, Mangeot PE, Lines L, Aublin-Gex A, Scholtes C, Punginelli C, Joly S, Vasseur F, Manet E, Gruffat H, Henry T, Halitim F, Paparin JL, Machin P, Darteil R, Sampson D, Mikaelian I, Lane L, Navratil V, Golinelli-Cohen MP, Terzi F, André P, Lotteau V, Vonderscher J, Meldrum EC, de Chassey B. Viruses traverse the human proteome through peptide interfaces that can be biomimetically leveraged for drug discovery. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2308776121. [PMID: 38252831 PMCID: PMC10835127 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2308776121] [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: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
We present a drug design strategy based on structural knowledge of protein-protein interfaces selected through virus-host coevolution and translated into highly potential small molecules. This approach is grounded on Vinland, the most comprehensive atlas of virus-human protein-protein interactions with annotation of interacting domains. From this inspiration, we identified small viral protein domains responsible for interaction with human proteins. These peptides form a library of new chemical entities used to screen for replication modulators of several pathogens. As a proof of concept, a peptide from a KSHV protein, identified as an inhibitor of influenza virus replication, was translated into a small molecule series with low nanomolar antiviral activity. By targeting the NEET proteins, these molecules turn out to be of therapeutic interest in a nonalcoholic steatohepatitis mouse model with kidney lesions. This study provides a biomimetic framework to design original chemistries targeting cellular proteins, with indications going far beyond infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Philippe E. Mangeot
- Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie, University Lyon, Inserm, U1111, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR5308, Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, Lyon69007, France
| | | | - Anne Aublin-Gex
- Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie, University Lyon, Inserm, U1111, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR5308, Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, Lyon69007, France
| | - Caroline Scholtes
- Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie, University Lyon, Inserm, U1111, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR5308, Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, Lyon69007, France
| | - Claire Punginelli
- Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie, University Lyon, Inserm, U1111, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR5308, Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, Lyon69007, France
| | | | - Florence Vasseur
- Université de Paris, INSERM U1151, CNRS UMR 8253, Institut Necker Enfants Malades, Département “Croissance et Signalisation”, Paris75015, France
| | - Evelyne Manet
- Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie, University Lyon, Inserm, U1111, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR5308, Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, Lyon69007, France
| | - Henri Gruffat
- Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie, University Lyon, Inserm, U1111, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR5308, Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, Lyon69007, France
| | - Thomas Henry
- Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie, University Lyon, Inserm, U1111, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR5308, Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, Lyon69007, France
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Ivan Mikaelian
- Université de Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, INSERM 1052, CNRS 5286, Centre Léon Bérard, Centre de recherche en cancérologie de Lyon, Lyon69373, France
| | - Lydie Lane
- Computer and Laboratory Investigation of Proteins of Human Origin Group, Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, Lausanne1015, Switzerland
| | - Vincent Navratil
- Pôle Rhône-Alpes de bioinformatique, Rhône-Alpes Bioinformatics Center, Université Lyon 1, Villeurbanne69622, France
- European Virus Bio-informatiques Center, Jena07743, Germany
- Institut Français de Bioinformatique, IFB-core, UMS 3601, Évry91057, France
| | - Marie-Pierre Golinelli-Cohen
- Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS, Institut de Chimie des Substances Naturelles, Unité Propre de Recherche 2301, Gif-sur-Yvette91198, France
| | - Fabiola Terzi
- Université de Paris, INSERM U1151, CNRS UMR 8253, Institut Necker Enfants Malades, Département “Croissance et Signalisation”, Paris75015, France
| | - Patrice André
- Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie, University Lyon, Inserm, U1111, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR5308, Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, Lyon69007, France
| | - Vincent Lotteau
- Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie, University Lyon, Inserm, U1111, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR5308, Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, Lyon69007, France
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18
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Madir A, Grgurevic I, Tsochatzis EA, Pinzani M. Portal hypertension in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: Current knowledge and challenges. World J Gastroenterol 2024; 30:290-307. [PMID: 38313235 PMCID: PMC10835535 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v30.i4.290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Portal hypertension (PH) has traditionally been observed as a consequence of significant fibrosis and cirrhosis in advanced non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). However, recent studies have provided evidence that PH may develop in earlier stages of NAFLD, suggesting that there are additional pathogenetic mechanisms at work in addition to liver fibrosis. The early development of PH in NAFLD is associated with hepatocellular lipid accumulation and ballooning, leading to the compression of liver sinusoids. External compression and intra-luminal obstacles cause mechanical forces such as strain, shear stress and elevated hydrostatic pressure that in turn activate mechanotransduction pathways, resulting in endothelial dysfunction and the development of fibrosis. The spatial distribution of histological and functional changes in the periportal and perisinusoidal areas of the liver lobule are considered responsible for the pre-sinusoidal component of PH in patients with NAFLD. Thus, current diagnostic methods such as hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG) measurement tend to underestimate portal pressure (PP) in NAFLD patients, who might decompensate below the HVPG threshold of 10 mmHg, which is traditionally considered the most relevant indicator of clinically significant portal hypertension (CSPH). This creates further challenges in finding a reliable diagnostic method to stratify the prognostic risk in this population of patients. In theory, the measurement of the portal pressure gradient guided by endoscopic ultrasound might overcome the limitations of HVPG measurement by avoiding the influence of the pre-sinusoidal component, but more investigations are needed to test its clinical utility for this indication. Liver and spleen stiffness measurement in combination with platelet count is currently the best-validated non-invasive approach for diagnosing CSPH and varices needing treatment. Lifestyle change remains the cornerstone of the treatment of PH in NAFLD, together with correcting the components of metabolic syndrome, using nonselective beta blockers, whereas emerging candidate drugs require more robust confirmation from clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anita Madir
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Clinical Nutrition, University Hospital Dubrava, Zagreb 10000, Croatia
| | - Ivica Grgurevic
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Clinical Nutrition, University Hospital Dubrava, Zagreb 10000, Croatia
- School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb 10000, Croatia
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, University of Zagreb, Zagreb 10000, Croatia
| | - Emmanuel A Tsochatzis
- UCL Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, Royal Free Hospital and University College London, London NW3 2PF, United Kingdom
| | - Massimo Pinzani
- UCL Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, Royal Free Hospital and University College London, London NW3 2PF, United Kingdom
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19
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Xia Y, Wang Y, Xiong Q, He J, Wang H, Islam M, Zhou X, Kim A, Zhang H, Huang H, Tsung A. Neutrophil extracellular traps promote MASH fibrosis by metabolic reprogramming of HSC. Hepatology 2024:01515467-990000000-00728. [PMID: 38266270 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) fibrosis is a reversible stage of liver disease accompanied by inflammatory cell infiltration. Neutrophils extrude a meshwork of chromatin fibers to establish neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), which play important roles in inflammatory response regulation. Our previous work demonstrated that NETs promote HCC in MASH. However, it is still unknown if NETs play a role in the molecular mechanisms of liver fibrosis. APPROACH AND RESULTS Following 12 weeks of Western diet/carbon tetrachloride, MASH fibrosis was identified in C57BL/6 mice with increased NET formation. However, NET depletion using DNase I treatment or mice knocked out for peptidyl arginine deaminase type IV significantly attenuated the development of MASH fibrosis. NETs were demonstrated to induce HSCs activation, proliferation, and migration through augmented mitochondrial and aerobic glycolysis to provide additional bioenergetic and biosynthetic supplies. Metabolomic analysis revealed markedly an altered metabolic profile upon NET stimulation of HSCs that were dependent on arachidonic acid metabolism. Mechanistically, NET stimulation of toll-like receptor 3 induced cyclooxygenase-2 activation and prostaglandin E2 production with subsequent HSC activation and liver fibrosis. Inhibiting cyclooxygenase-2 with celecoxib reduced fibrosis in our MASH model. CONCLUSIONS Our findings implicate NETs playing a critical role in the development of MASH hepatic fibrosis by inducing metabolic reprogramming of HSCs through the toll-like receptor 3/cyclooxygenase-2/cyclooxygenase-2 pathway. Therefore, NET inhibition may represent an attractive treatment target for MASH liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujia Xia
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Yu Wang
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio, USA
- Institute of Pathology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Qi Xiong
- Institute of Pathology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Jiayi He
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Han Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Mozaffarul Islam
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Xinyu Zhou
- Department of Surgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Alex Kim
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Hongji Zhang
- Department of Surgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Hai Huang
- Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, New York, USA
| | - Allan Tsung
- Department of Surgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
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Dong X, Lu S, Tian Y, Ma H, Wang Y, Zhang X, Sun G, Luo Y, Sun X. Bavachinin protects the liver in NAFLD by promoting regeneration via targeting PCNA. J Adv Res 2024; 55:131-144. [PMID: 36801384 PMCID: PMC10770097 DOI: 10.1016/j.jare.2023.02.007] [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: 09/01/2022] [Revised: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common liver disease all over the world, and no drug is approved for the treatment of NAFLD. Bavachinin (BVC) is proven to possess liver-protecting effect against NAFLD, but its mechanism is still blurry. OBJECTIVES With the use of Click Chemistry-Activity-Based Protein Profiling (CC-ABPP) technology, this study aims to identify the target of BVC, and investigate the mechanism by which BVC exerts its liver-protecting effect. METHODS The high fat diet induced hamster NAFLD model is introduced to investigate BVC's lipid-lowering and liver-protecting effects. Then, a small molecular probe ofBVC is designed and synthesized based on theCC-ABPP technology, and BVC's target is fished out. A series of experiments are performed to identify the target, including competitive inhibition assay, surface-plasmon resonance (SPR), cellular thermal shift assay (CETSA), drug affinity responsive target stability (DARTS) assay, and co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP). Afterward, the pro-regeneration effects of BVC are validated in vitro and in vivo through flow cytometry, immunofluorescence, and the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL). RESULT In the hamster NAFLD model, BVC shows lipid-lowing effect and improvement on the histology. PCNA is identified as the target of BVC with the method mentioned above, and BVC facilitates the interaction between PCNA and DNA polymerase delta. BVC promotes HepG2 cells proliferation which is inhibited by T2AA, an inhibitor suppresses the interaction between PCNA and DNA polymerase delta. In NAFLD hamsters, BVC enhances PCNA expression and liver regeneration, reduces hepatocyte apoptosis. CONCLUSION This study suggests that, besides the anti-lipemic effect, BVC binds to the pocket of PCNA facilitating its interaction with DNA polymerase delta and pro-regeneration effect, thereby exerts the protective effect against HFD induced liver injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Dong
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100193, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Discovery of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Natural Medicine) and Translational Medicine, Beijing 100193, China; Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Resource Utilization of Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100193, China; Key Laboratory of Efficacy Evaluation of Chinese Medicine Against Glyeolipid Metabolism Disorder Disease, State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Shan Lu
- Beijing Increasepharm Safety and Efficacy Co., Ltd, Beijing, China
| | - Yu Tian
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100193, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Discovery of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Natural Medicine) and Translational Medicine, Beijing 100193, China; Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Resource Utilization of Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100193, China; Key Laboratory of Efficacy Evaluation of Chinese Medicine Against Glyeolipid Metabolism Disorder Disease, State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Han Ma
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yang Wang
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100193, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Discovery of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Natural Medicine) and Translational Medicine, Beijing 100193, China; Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Resource Utilization of Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100193, China; Key Laboratory of Efficacy Evaluation of Chinese Medicine Against Glyeolipid Metabolism Disorder Disease, State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Xuelian Zhang
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100193, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Discovery of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Natural Medicine) and Translational Medicine, Beijing 100193, China; Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Resource Utilization of Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100193, China; Key Laboratory of Efficacy Evaluation of Chinese Medicine Against Glyeolipid Metabolism Disorder Disease, State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Guibo Sun
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100193, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Discovery of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Natural Medicine) and Translational Medicine, Beijing 100193, China; Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Resource Utilization of Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100193, China; Key Laboratory of Efficacy Evaluation of Chinese Medicine Against Glyeolipid Metabolism Disorder Disease, State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Yun Luo
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100193, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Discovery of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Natural Medicine) and Translational Medicine, Beijing 100193, China; Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Resource Utilization of Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100193, China; Key Laboratory of Efficacy Evaluation of Chinese Medicine Against Glyeolipid Metabolism Disorder Disease, State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100193, China.
| | - Xiaobo Sun
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100193, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Discovery of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Natural Medicine) and Translational Medicine, Beijing 100193, China; Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Resource Utilization of Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100193, China; Key Laboratory of Efficacy Evaluation of Chinese Medicine Against Glyeolipid Metabolism Disorder Disease, State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100193, China.
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Sanyal AJ, Jha P, Kleiner DE. Digital pathology for nonalcoholic steatohepatitis assessment. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2024; 21:57-69. [PMID: 37789057 DOI: 10.1038/s41575-023-00843-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
Histological assessment of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has anchored knowledge development about the phenotypes of the condition, their natural history and their clinical course. This fact has led to the use of histological assessment as a reference standard for the evaluation of efficacy of drug interventions for nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) - the more histologically active form of NAFLD. However, certain limitations of conventional histological assessment systems pose challenges in drug development. These limitations have spurred intense scientific and commercial development of machine learning and digital approaches towards the assessment of liver histology in patients with NAFLD. This research field remains an area in rapid evolution. In this Perspective article, we summarize the current conventional assessment of NASH and its limitations, the use of specific digital approaches for histological assessment, and their application to the study of NASH and its response to therapy. Although this is not a comprehensive review, the leading tools currently used to assess therapeutic efficacy in drug development are specifically discussed. The potential translation of these approaches to support routine clinical assessment of NAFLD and an agenda for future research are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arun J Sanyal
- Stravitz-Sanyal Institute for Liver Disease and Metabolic Health, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, USA.
| | - Prakash Jha
- Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - David E Kleiner
- Post-Mortem Section Laboratory of Pathology Center for Cancer Research National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
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Li R, Zhao M, Miao C, Shi X, Lu J. Identification and validation of key biomarkers associated with macrophages in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease based on hdWGCNA and machine learning. Aging (Albany NY) 2023; 15:15451-15472. [PMID: 38147020 PMCID: PMC10781485 DOI: 10.18632/aging.205374] [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: 08/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND NAFLD has attracted increasing attention because of its high prevalence and risk of progression to cirrhosis or even hepatocellular carcinoma. Therefore, research into the root causes and molecular indicators of NAFLD is crucial. METHODS We analyzed scRNA-seq data and RNA-seq data from normal and NAFLD liver samples. We utilized hdWGCNA to find module-related genes associated with the phenotype. Multiple machine learning algorithms were used to validate the model diagnostics and further screen for genes that are characteristic of NAFLD. The NAFLD mouse model was constructed using the MCD diet to validate the diagnostic effect of the genes. RESULTS We identified a specific macrophage population called NASH-macrophages by single-cell sequencing analysis. Cell communication analysis and Pseudo-time trajectory analysis revealed the specific role and temporal distribution of NASH-macrophages in NAFLD. The hdWGCNA screening yielded 30 genes associated with NASH-macrophages, and machine learning algorithms screened and obtained two genes characterizing NAFLD. The immune infiltration indicated that these genes were highly associated with macrophages. Notably, we verified by RT-qPCR, IHC, and WB that MAFB and CX3CR1 are highly expressed in the MCD mouse model and may play important roles. CONCLUSIONS Our study revealed a macrophage population that is closely associated with NAFLD. Using hdWGCNA analysis and multiple machine learning algorithms, we identified two NAFLD signature genes that are highly correlated with macrophages. Our findings may provide potential feature markers and therapeutic targets for NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruowen Li
- Department of General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, Shandong Province, China
- School of Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, Shandong Province, China
| | - Mingjian Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, Shandong Province, China
- School of Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, Shandong Province, China
| | - Chengxu Miao
- Department of General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, Shandong Province, China
- School of Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, Shandong Province, China
| | - Xiaojia Shi
- School of Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, Shandong Province, China
| | - Jinghui Lu
- Department of General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, Shandong Province, China
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Zhang H, Axinbai M, Zhao Y, Wei J, Qu T, Kong J, He Y, Zhang L. Bioinformatics analysis of ferroptosis-related genes and immune cell infiltration in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Eur J Med Res 2023; 28:605. [PMID: 38115130 PMCID: PMC10729346 DOI: 10.1186/s40001-023-01457-0] [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: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The morbidity and mortality rates of patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) have been steadily increasing in recent years. Previous studies have confirmed the important role of ferroptosis in NAFLD development; however, the precise mechanism through which ferroptosis influences NAFLD occurrence remains unclear. The present study aimed to identify and validate ferroptosis-related genes involved in NAFLD pathogenesis and to investigate the underlying molecular mechanisms of NAFLD. METHODS We downloaded microarray datasets GSE72756 and GSE24807 to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between samples from healthy individuals and patients with NAFLD. From these DEGs, we extracted ferroptosis-related DEGs. GSE89632, another microarray dataset, was used to validate the expression of ferroptosis-related genes. A protein-protein interaction (PPI) network of ferroptosis-related genes was then constructed. The target genes were also subjected to Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses. Finally, competing endogenous RNA networks were constructed. We used the CIBERSORT package to evaluate the infiltration of immune cells infiltration in NAFLD. RESULTS Five ferroptosis-related genes (SCP2, MUC1, DPP4, SLC1A4, and TF) were identified as promising diagnostic biomarkers for NAFLD. Enrichment analyses revealed that these genes are mainly involved in metabolic processes. NEAT1-miR-1224-5p-SCP2, NEAT1-miR-485-5p-MUC1, MALAT1-miR-485-5p-MUC1, and CNOT6-miR-145-5p-SLC1A4 are likely to be the potential RNA regulatory pathways that affect NAFLD development. Principal component analysis indicated significant differences in immune cell infiltration between the two groups. CONCLUSIONS This study identified five ferroptosis-related genes as potential biomarkers for diagnosing NAFLD. The correlations between the expression of ferroptosis-related genes and immune cell infiltration might shed light on the study of the molecular mechanism underlying NAFLD development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huan Zhang
- Department of Digestion, Dongfang Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Malina Axinbai
- Department of Digestion, Dongfang Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China
| | - Yuqing Zhao
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jiaoyang Wei
- Department of Digestion, Dongfang Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Tongshuo Qu
- Department of Digestion, Dongfang Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Jingmin Kong
- Department of Emergency, Beijing Chaoyang Integrative Medicine Rescue and First Aid Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yongqiang He
- Department of Digestion, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.
| | - Liping Zhang
- Department of Digestion, Dongfang Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.
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Chen L, Wen T, Cao A, Wang J, Pan H, Zhao R. Bile Acids Promote Hepatic Biotransformation and Excretion of Aflatoxin B1 in Broiler Chickens. Toxins (Basel) 2023; 15:694. [PMID: 38133198 PMCID: PMC10747845 DOI: 10.3390/toxins15120694] [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: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is a hazardous mycotoxin that often contaminates animal feed and may potentially induce severe liver damage if ingested. The liver is the primary organ responsible for AFB1 detoxification through enzyme-catalyzed xenobiotic metabolism and bile acid (BA)-associated excretion. In this study, we sought to investigate whether exogenous BA improves hepatic AFB1 detoxification to alleviate AFB1-induced liver injury in broiler chickens. Five-day-old broiler chicks were randomly assigned to three groups. CON and AFB1 received a basal diet; AFB1 + BA received a basal diet with 250 mg/kg BA for 20 days. After a 3-day pre-feed, AFB1 and AFB1 + BA were daily gavaged with 250 μg/kg BW AFB1, while CON received gavage solvent for AFB1 treatment. Dietary BA supplementation protected chickens from AFB1-induced hepatic inflammation and oxidative stress. The hepatic biotransformation of AFB1 to its metabolite AFBO was improved, with accelerated excretion to the gallbladder and cecum. Accordantly, AFB1-induced down-regulation of detoxification genes, including cytochrome P450 enzymes, glutathione S-transferases, and the bile salt export pump, was rescued by BA supplementation. Moreover, liver X receptor α, suppressed by AFB1, was enhanced in BA-treated broiler chickens. These results indicate that dietary BA supplementation improves hepatic AFB1 detoxification and excretion through LXRα-involved regulation of xenobiotic enzymes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Chen
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; (L.C.); (T.W.)
- Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology & Biochemistry, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
- Huaihua Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Huaihua 418000, China
| | - Tian Wen
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; (L.C.); (T.W.)
- Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology & Biochemistry, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Aizhi Cao
- Industrial Research Institute of Liver Health & Homeostatic Regulation, Shandong Longchang Animal Health Product Co., Ltd., Dezhou 253000, China; (A.C.)
| | - Jianmin Wang
- Industrial Research Institute of Liver Health & Homeostatic Regulation, Shandong Longchang Animal Health Product Co., Ltd., Dezhou 253000, China; (A.C.)
| | - Hua Pan
- Industrial Research Institute of Liver Health & Homeostatic Regulation, Shandong Longchang Animal Health Product Co., Ltd., Dezhou 253000, China; (A.C.)
| | - Ruqian Zhao
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; (L.C.); (T.W.)
- Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology & Biochemistry, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
- Industrial Research Institute of Liver Health & Homeostatic Regulation, Shandong Longchang Animal Health Product Co., Ltd., Dezhou 253000, China; (A.C.)
- National Key Laboratory of Meat Quality Control and Cultured Meat Development, Nanjing 210095, China
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Barreira-Díaz A, Salcedo-Allende MT, Martínez-Valle F, Orozco-Gálvez O, Buti M, Riveiro-Barciela M. The significant IgG4 infiltrate in autoimmune hepatitis is associated with a greater ductular reaction and more advanced liver disease. Dig Liver Dis 2023; 55:1673-1678. [PMID: 37263810 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2023.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sclerosing cholangitis is the typical IgG4-related disease digestive involvement. However, the role of the IgG4 liver expression in autoimmune hepatitis remains unknown. AIMS to assess whether the expression of IgG4 plasma cells in patients with autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) was associated with different outcomes. METHODS Retrospective study including patients diagnosed with AIH by biopsy from January-2009 to June-2021. At least mild IgG4 expression (>10 IgG4+-plasma cells per field) was considered as significant. RESULTS 85 patients with AIH were included. Overall, 58.8% were women, mean age 54 years. Nine (10.6%) presented cirrhosis at diagnosis. Fifteen (17.6%) had significant IgG4 liver expression. Patients with IgG4 infiltrate were older (p = 0.021), presented liver cirrhosis more frequently (33.3% vs. 5.7%, p = 0.007), greater IgG plasma values (p = 0.008) and atypical ANCAs (p = 0.086); ductular reaction was also more common (p = 0.009). Complete remission rate was similar regardless of the IgG4 infiltrate. Time to corticosteroids discontinuation was longer in subjects with IgG4 infiltrate (p = 0.068), but second-line therapy tended to be less frequent (p = 0.187). CONCLUSION Significant IgG4 liver infiltrate in patients with autoimmune hepatitis is associated with more advanced liver disease. The greater ductular reaction mediated by the IgG4 infiltrate may be the cause for this finding, though this finding should be prospectively assessed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Barreira-Díaz
- Liver Unit, Internal Medicine Department, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Vall d'Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus. Barcelona, Spain; Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Department of Medicine, Barcelona, Spain; CIBERehd, Instituto Carlos III, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Fernando Martínez-Valle
- Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Department of Medicine, Barcelona, Spain; Systemic Autoimmune Diseases Unit, Internal Medicine Department, Hospital UniversitariValld'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Olimpia Orozco-Gálvez
- Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Department of Medicine, Barcelona, Spain; Systemic Autoimmune Diseases Unit, Internal Medicine Department, Hospital UniversitariValld'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
| | - María Buti
- Liver Unit, Internal Medicine Department, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Vall d'Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus. Barcelona, Spain; Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Department of Medicine, Barcelona, Spain; CIBERehd, Instituto Carlos III, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mar Riveiro-Barciela
- Liver Unit, Internal Medicine Department, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Vall d'Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus. Barcelona, Spain; Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Department of Medicine, Barcelona, Spain; CIBERehd, Instituto Carlos III, Barcelona, Spain.
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Sawada K, Chung H, Softic S, Moreno-Fernandez ME, Divanovic S. The bidirectional immune crosstalk in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease. Cell Metab 2023; 35:1852-1871. [PMID: 37939656 PMCID: PMC10680147 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmet.2023.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is an unabated risk factor for end-stage liver diseases with no available therapies. Dysregulated immune responses are critical culprits of MASLD pathogenesis. Independent contributions from either the innate or adaptive arms of the immune system or their unidirectional interplay are commonly studied in MASLD. However, the bidirectional communication between innate and adaptive immune systems and its impact on MASLD remain insufficiently understood. Given that both innate and adaptive immune cells are indispensable for the development and progression of inflammation in MASLD, elucidating pathogenic contributions stemming from the bidirectional interplay between these two arms holds potential for development of novel therapeutics for MASLD. Here, we review the immune cell types and bidirectional pathways that influence the pathogenesis of MASLD and highlight potential pharmacologic approaches to combat MASLD based on current knowledge of this bidirectional crosstalk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keisuke Sawada
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA; Division of Immunobiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA; Immunology Graduate Program, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA; Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA
| | - Hak Chung
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA; Division of Immunobiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Samir Softic
- Department of Pediatrics and Gastroenterology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Maria E Moreno-Fernandez
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA; Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA.
| | - Senad Divanovic
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA; Division of Immunobiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA; Immunology Graduate Program, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA; Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA; Center for Inflammation and Tolerance, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA.
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Fa P, Ke BG, Dupre A, Tsung A, Zhang H. The implication of neutrophil extracellular traps in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1292679. [PMID: 38022519 PMCID: PMC10652891 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1292679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is an expanding worldwide health concern, and the underlying mechanisms contributing to its progression still need further exploration. Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are intricate formations comprised of nuclear constituents and diverse antimicrobial granules that are released into the extracellular milieu by activated neutrophils upon various triggers, which play a pivotal part in the onset and advancement of NAFLD. NETs actively participate in the genesis of NAFLD by fostering oxidative stress and inflammation, ultimately resulting in hepatic fat accumulation and the escalation of liver injury. Recent insights into the interaction with other hepatic immune populations and mediators, such as macrophages and T regulatory cells, have revealed several important mechanisms that can trigger further liver injury. In conclusion, the formation of NETs emerged as an important factor in the development of NAFLD, offering a promising target for innovative therapeutic approaches against this debilitating condition. This comprehensive review seeks to compile existing studies exploring the involvement of NETs in the genesis of NAFLD and their influence on the immune response throughout the progression of NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengyan Fa
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
| | - Benjamin G. Ke
- School of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
| | - Abigail Dupre
- School of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
| | - Allan Tsung
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
| | - Hongji Zhang
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
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Arvanitakis K, Papadakos SP, Lekakis V, Koufakis T, Lempesis IG, Papantoniou E, Kalopitas G, Georgakopoulou VE, Stergiou IE, Theocharis S, Germanidis G. Meeting at the Crossroad between Obesity and Hepatic Carcinogenesis: Unique Pathophysiological Pathways Raise Expectations for Innovative Therapeutic Approaches. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14704. [PMID: 37834153 PMCID: PMC10572430 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241914704] [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: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The escalating global prevalence of obesity and its intricate association with the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) pose a substantial challenge to public health. Obesity, acknowledged as a pervasive epidemic, is linked to an array of chronic diseases, including HCC, catalyzing the need for a comprehensive understanding of its molecular underpinnings. Notably, HCC has emerged as a leading malignancy with rising incidence and mortality. The transition from viral etiologies to the prominence of metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD)-related HCC underscores the urgent need to explore the intricate molecular pathways linking obesity and hepatic carcinogenesis. This review delves into the interwoven landscape of molecular carcinogenesis in the context of obesity-driven HCC while also navigating using the current therapeutic strategies and future prospects for combating obesity-related HCC. We underscore the pivotal role of obesity as a risk factor and propose an integrated approach encompassing lifestyle interventions, pharmacotherapy, and the exploration of emerging targeted therapies. As the obesity-HCC nexus continues to challenge healthcare systems globally, a comprehensive understanding of the intricate molecular mechanisms and innovative therapeutic strategies is imperative to alleviate the rising burden of this dual menace.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantinos Arvanitakis
- First Department of Internal Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece; (K.A.); (E.P.); (G.K.)
- Basic and Translational Research Unit (BTRU), Special Unit for Biomedical Research and Education (BRESU), Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Stavros P. Papadakos
- First Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.P.P.); (S.T.)
| | - Vasileios Lekakis
- Department of Gastroenterology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Laiko General Hospital, 11527 Athens, Greece;
| | - Theocharis Koufakis
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism and Diabetes Centre, First Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Ioannis G. Lempesis
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research (IMSR), College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK;
| | - Eleni Papantoniou
- First Department of Internal Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece; (K.A.); (E.P.); (G.K.)
| | - Georgios Kalopitas
- First Department of Internal Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece; (K.A.); (E.P.); (G.K.)
- Basic and Translational Research Unit (BTRU), Special Unit for Biomedical Research and Education (BRESU), Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | | | - Ioanna E. Stergiou
- Pathophysiology Department, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece;
| | - Stamatios Theocharis
- First Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.P.P.); (S.T.)
| | - Georgios Germanidis
- First Department of Internal Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece; (K.A.); (E.P.); (G.K.)
- Basic and Translational Research Unit (BTRU), Special Unit for Biomedical Research and Education (BRESU), Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece
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Chen G, Zhao X, Dankovskyy M, Ansah-Zame A, Alghamdi U, Liu D, Wei R, Zhao J, Zhou A. A novel role of RNase L in the development of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. FASEB J 2023; 37:e23158. [PMID: 37615181 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202300621r] [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: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023]
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common chronic liver disease and affects about 25% of the population globally. NAFLD has the potential to cause significant liver damage in many patients because it can progress to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and cirrhosis, which substantially increases disease morbidity and mortality. Despite the key role of innate immunity in the disease progression, the underlying molecular and pathogenic mechanisms remain to be elucidated. RNase L is a key enzyme in interferon action against viral infection and displays pleiotropic biological functions such as control of cell proliferation, apoptosis, and autophagy. Recent studies have demonstrated that RNase L is involved in innate immunity. In this study, we revealed that RNase L contributed to the development of NAFLD, which further progressed to NASH in a time-dependent fashion after RNase L wild-type (WT) and knockout mice were fed with a high-fat and high-cholesterol diet. RNase L WT mice showed significantly more severe NASH, evidenced by widespread macro-vesicular steatosis, hepatocyte ballooning degeneration, inflammation, and fibrosis, although physiological and biochemical data indicated that both types of mice developed obesity, hyperglycemia, hypercholesterolemia, dysfunction of the liver, and systemic inflammation at different extents. Further investigation demonstrated that RNase L was responsible for the expression of some key genes in lipid metabolism, inflammation, and fibrosis signaling. Taken together, our results suggest that a novel therapeutic intervention for NAFLD may be developed based on regulating the expression and activity of RNase L.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guanmin Chen
- Department of Chemistry, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Xiaotong Zhao
- Department of Chemistry, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Maksym Dankovskyy
- Department of Chemistry, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Abigail Ansah-Zame
- Department of Chemistry, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Uthman Alghamdi
- Department of Chemistry, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Danting Liu
- Department of Chemistry, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Ruhan Wei
- Department of Chemistry, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Jianjun Zhao
- Department of Cancer Biology, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Aimin Zhou
- Department of Chemistry, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
- Center for Gene Regulation in Health and Diseases, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
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Zhong X, Lv M, Ma M, Huang Q, Hu R, Li J, Yi J, Sun J, Zhou X. State of CD8 + T cells in progression from nonalcoholic steatohepatitis to hepatocellular carcinoma: From pathogenesis to immunotherapy. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 165:115131. [PMID: 37429231 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115131] [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: 05/21/2023] [Revised: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023] Open
Abstract
With the obesity epidemic, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is emerging as the fastest growing potential cause of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). NASH has been demonstrated to establish a tumor-prone liver microenvironment where both innate and adaptive immune systems are involved. As the most typical anti-tumor effector, the cell function of CD8+ T cells is remodeled by chronic inflammation, metabolic alteration, lipid toxicity and oxidative stress in the liver microenvironment along the NASH to HCC transition. Unexpectedly, NASH may blunt the effect of immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy against HCC due to the dysregulated CD8+ T cells. Growing evidence has supported that NASH is likely to facilitate the state transition of CD8+ T cells with changes in cell motility, effector function, metabolic reprogramming and gene transcription according to single-cell sequencing. However, the mechanistic insight of CD8+ T cell states in the NASH-driven HCC is not comprehensive. Herein, we focus on the characterization of state phenotypes of CD8+ T cells with both functional and metabolic signatures in NASH-driven fibrosis and HCC. The NASH-specific CD8+ T cells are speculated to mainly have a dualist effect, where its aberrant activated phenotype sustains chronic inflammation in NASH but subsequently triggers its exhaustion in HCC. As the exploration of CD8+ T cells on the distribution and phenotypic shifts will provide a new direction for the intervention strategies against HCC, we also discuss the implications for targeting different phenotypes of CD8+ T cells, shedding light on the personalized immunotherapy for NASH-driven HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Zhong
- Department of Liver Disease, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China; Department of Liver Disease, the fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Minling Lv
- Department of Liver Disease, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China; Department of Liver Disease, the fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - MengQing Ma
- Department of Liver Disease, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China; Department of Liver Disease, the fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Qi Huang
- Department of Liver Disease, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China; Department of Liver Disease, the fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Rui Hu
- Department of Liver Disease, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China; Department of Liver Disease, the fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Jing Li
- Department of Liver Disease, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China; Department of Liver Disease, the fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Jinyu Yi
- Department of Liver Disease, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China; Department of Liver Disease, the fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Jialing Sun
- Department of Liver Disease, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China; Department of Liver Disease, the fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiaozhou Zhou
- Department of Liver Disease, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China; Department of Liver Disease, the fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China.
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Habibi M, Ferguson D, Eichler SJ, Chan MM, LaPoint A, Shew TM, He M, Lutkewitte AJ, Schilling JD, Cho KY, Patti GJ, Finck BN. Mitochondrial Pyruvate Carrier Inhibition Attenuates Hepatic Stellate Cell Activation and Liver Injury in a Mouse Model of Metabolic Dysfunction-associated Steatotic Liver Disease. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.02.13.528384. [PMID: 36824926 PMCID: PMC9949033 DOI: 10.1101/2023.02.13.528384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
Hepatic stellate cells (HSC) are non-parenchymal liver cells that produce extracellular matrix comprising fibrotic lesions in chronic liver diseases. Prior work demonstrated that mitochondrial pyruvate carrier (MPC) inhibitors suppress HSC activation and fibrosis in a mouse model of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH). In the present study, pharmacologic or genetic inhibition of the MPC in HSC decreased expression of markers of activation in vitro. MPC knockdown also reduced the abundance of several intermediates of the TCA cycle, and diminished α-ketoglutarate played a key role in attenuating HSC activation by suppressing hypoxia inducible factor-1α signaling. On high fat diets, mice with HSC-specific MPC deletion exhibited reduced circulating transaminases, numbers of HSC, and hepatic expression of markers of HSC activation and inflammation compared to wild-type mice. These data suggest that MPC inhibition modulates HSC metabolism to attenuate activation and illuminate mechanisms by which MPC inhibitors could prove therapeutically beneficial for treating MASH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Habibi
- Department of Medicine, Center for Human Nutrition, Washington University in St. Louis
| | - Daniel Ferguson
- Department of Medicine, Center for Human Nutrition, Washington University in St. Louis
| | - Sophie J. Eichler
- Department of Medicine, Center for Human Nutrition, Washington University in St. Louis
| | - Mandy M. Chan
- Department of Medicine, Center for Human Nutrition, Washington University in St. Louis
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis
| | - Andrew LaPoint
- Department of Medicine, Center for Human Nutrition, Washington University in St. Louis
| | - Trevor M. Shew
- Department of Medicine, Center for Human Nutrition, Washington University in St. Louis
| | - Mai He
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis
| | - Andrew J. Lutkewitte
- Department of Medicine, Center for Human Nutrition, Washington University in St. Louis
| | - Joel D. Schilling
- Department of Medicine, Center for Human Nutrition, Washington University in St. Louis
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis
| | - Kevin Y. Cho
- Department of Chemistry, Siteman Cancer Center, Center for Metabolomics and Isotope Tracing, Washington University in St. Louis, MO 63110 USA
| | - Gary J. Patti
- Department of Medicine, Center for Human Nutrition, Washington University in St. Louis
- Department of Chemistry, Siteman Cancer Center, Center for Metabolomics and Isotope Tracing, Washington University in St. Louis, MO 63110 USA
| | - Brian N. Finck
- Department of Medicine, Center for Human Nutrition, Washington University in St. Louis
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Fernández Moro C, Geyer N, Harrizi S, Hamidi Y, Söderqvist S, Kuznyecov D, Tidholm Qvist E, Salmonson Schaad M, Hermann L, Lindberg A, Heuchel RL, Martín-Bernabé A, Dhanjal S, Navis AC, Villard C, Del Valle AC, Bozóky L, Sparrelid E, Dirix L, Strell C, Östman A, Schmierer B, Vermeulen PB, Engstrand J, Bozóky B, Gerling M. An idiosyncratic zonated stroma encapsulates desmoplastic liver metastases and originates from injured liver. Nat Commun 2023; 14:5024. [PMID: 37596278 PMCID: PMC10439160 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-40688-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2022] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023] Open
Abstract
A perimetastatic capsule is a strong positive prognostic factor in liver metastases, but its origin remains unclear. Here, we systematically quantify the capsule's extent and cellular composition in 263 patients with colorectal cancer liver metastases to investigate its clinical significance and origin. We show that survival improves proportionally with increasing encapsulation and decreasing tumor-hepatocyte contact. Immunostaining reveals the gradual zonation of the capsule, transitioning from benign-like NGFRhigh stroma at the liver edge to FAPhigh stroma towards the tumor. Encapsulation correlates with decreased tumor viability and preoperative chemotherapy. In mice, chemotherapy and tumor cell ablation induce capsule formation. Our results suggest that encapsulation develops where tumor invasion into the liver plates stalls, representing a reparative process rather than tumor-induced desmoplasia. We propose a model of metastases growth, where the efficient tumor colonization of the liver parenchyma and a reparative liver injury reaction are opposing determinants of metastasis aggressiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Fernández Moro
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, 14183, Huddinge, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Pathology and Cancer Diagnostics, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, 14186, Sweden
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Division of Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, 14186, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Natalie Geyer
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, 14183, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Sara Harrizi
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, 14183, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Yousra Hamidi
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, 14183, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Sara Söderqvist
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, 14183, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Danyil Kuznyecov
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Pathology and Molecular Diagnostics, Medicinsk Service, Skåne University Hospital, 22185, Lund, Sweden
| | - Evelina Tidholm Qvist
- Department of Clinical Pathology and Cancer Diagnostics, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, 14186, Sweden
| | | | - Laura Hermann
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, 14183, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Amanda Lindberg
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, 75185, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Rainer L Heuchel
- Pancreatic Cancer Research Laboratory, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, 14183, Hudinge, Sweden
| | | | - Soniya Dhanjal
- CRISPR Functional Genomics, SciLifeLab and Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institutet, 17165, Solna, Sweden
| | - Anna C Navis
- CRISPR Functional Genomics, SciLifeLab and Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institutet, 17165, Solna, Sweden
| | - Christina Villard
- Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, 14183, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Andrea C Del Valle
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, 14183, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Lorand Bozóky
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, 14183, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Ernesto Sparrelid
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Division of Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, 14152, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Luc Dirix
- Translational Cancer Research Unit (GZA Hospitals and University of Antwerp), Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Carina Strell
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, 75185, Uppsala, Sweden
- Centre for Cancer Biomarkers CCBIO, Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Bergen, 5020, Bergen, Norway
| | - Arne Östman
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, 17176, Solna, Sweden
| | - Bernhard Schmierer
- CRISPR Functional Genomics, SciLifeLab and Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institutet, 17165, Solna, Sweden
| | - Peter B Vermeulen
- Translational Cancer Research Unit (GZA Hospitals and University of Antwerp), Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Jennie Engstrand
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Division of Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, 14152, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Béla Bozóky
- Department of Clinical Pathology and Cancer Diagnostics, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, 14186, Sweden
| | - Marco Gerling
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, 14183, Huddinge, Sweden.
- Theme Cancer, Karolinska University Hospital, 17 176, Solna, Sweden.
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Cardinale V, Lanthier N, Baptista PM, Carpino G, Carnevale G, Orlando G, Angelico R, Manzia TM, Schuppan D, Pinzani M, Alvaro D, Ciccocioppo R, Uygun BE. Cell transplantation-based regenerative medicine in liver diseases. Stem Cell Reports 2023; 18:1555-1572. [PMID: 37557073 PMCID: PMC10444572 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2023.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 06/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023] Open
Abstract
This review aims to evaluate the current preclinical state of liver bioengineering, the clinical context for liver cell therapies, the cell sources, the delivery routes, and the results of clinical trials for end-stage liver disease. Different clinical settings, such as inborn errors of metabolism, acute liver failure, chronic liver disease, liver cirrhosis, and acute-on-chronic liver failure, as well as multiple cellular sources were analyzed; namely, hepatocytes, hepatic progenitor cells, biliary tree stem/progenitor cells, mesenchymal stromal cells, and macrophages. The highly heterogeneous clinical scenario of liver disease and the availability of multiple cellular sources endowed with different biological properties make this a multidisciplinary translational research challenge. Data on each individual liver disease and more accurate endpoints are urgently needed, together with a characterization of the regenerative pathways leading to potential therapeutic benefit. Here, we critically review these topics and identify related research needs and perspectives in preclinical and clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo Cardinale
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
| | - Nicolas Lanthier
- Service d'Hépato-gastroentérologie, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Laboratory of Hepatogastroenterology, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Pedro M Baptista
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Aragón (IIS Aragón), Zaragoza, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en el Área Temática de Enfermedades Hepáticas (CIBERehd), Madrid, Spain; Fundación ARAID, Zaragoza, Spain; Department of Biomedical and Aerospace Engineering, Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Guido Carpino
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - Gianluca Carnevale
- Department of Surgery, Medicine, Dentistry, and Morphological Sciences with Interest in Transplant, Oncology, and Regenerative Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Orlando
- Section of Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston Salem, NC, USA
| | - Roberta Angelico
- Hepatobiliary Surgery and Transplant Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Tommaso Maria Manzia
- Hepatobiliary Surgery and Transplant Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Detlef Schuppan
- Institute of Translational Immunology, Research Center for Immune Therapy, University Medical Center, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany; Division of Gastroenterology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Massimo Pinzani
- UCL Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, Division of Medicine, Royal Free Hospital, London, UK
| | - Domenico Alvaro
- Department of Translation and Precision Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Rachele Ciccocioppo
- Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Medicine, A.O.U.I. Policlinico G.B. Rossi & University of Verona, Verona, Italy.
| | - Basak E Uygun
- Center for Engineering in Medicine and Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Shriners Hospitals for Children, Boston, MA 02114, USA; Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
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Su H, Haque M, Becker S, Edlund K, Duda J, Wang Q, Reißing J, Marschall HU, Candels LS, Mohamed M, Sjöland W, Liao L, Drexler SA, Strowig T, Rahnenführer J, Hengstler JG, Hatting M, Trautwein C. Long-term hypercaloric diet exacerbates metabolic liver disease in PNPLA3 I148M animals. Liver Int 2023; 43:1699-1713. [PMID: 37073116 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2022] [Revised: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 04/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a major health burden associated with the metabolic syndrome leading to liver fibrosis, cirrhosis and ultimately liver cancer. In humans, the PNPLA3 I148M polymorphism of the phospholipase patatin-like phospholipid domain containing protein 3 (PNPLA3) has a well-documented impact on metabolic liver disease. In this study, we used a mouse model mimicking the human PNPLA3 I148M polymorphism in a long-term high fat diet (HFD) experiment to better define its role for NAFLD progression. METHODS Male mice bearing wild-type Pnpla3 (Pnpla3WT ), or the human polymorphism PNPLA3 I148M (Pnpla3148M/M ) were subjected to HFD feeding for 24 and 52 weeks. Further analysis concerning basic phenotype, inflammation, proliferation and cell death, fibrosis and microbiota were performed in each time point. RESULTS After 52 weeks HFD Pnpla3148M/M animals had more liver fibrosis, enhanced numbers of inflammatory cells as well as increased Kupffer cell activity. Increased hepatocyte cell turnover and ductular proliferation were evident in HFD Pnpla3148M/M livers. Microbiome diversity was decreased after HFD feeding, changes were influenced by HFD feeding (36%) and the PNPLA3 I148M genotype (12%). Pnpla3148M/M mice had more faecal bile acids. RNA-sequencing of liver tissue defined an HFD-associated signature, and a Pnpla3148M/M specific pattern, which suggests Kupffer cell and monocytes-derived macrophages as significant drivers of liver disease progression in Pnpla3148M/M animals. CONCLUSION With long-term HFD feeding, mice with the PNPLA3 I148M genotype show exacerbated NAFLD. This finding is linked to PNPLA3 I148M-specific changes in microbiota composition and liver gene expression showing a stronger inflammatory response leading to enhanced liver fibrosis progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huan Su
- Department of Medicine III, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Madhuri Haque
- Department of Medicine III, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Svea Becker
- Department of Medicine III, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Karolina Edlund
- Department of Toxicology, Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors, Technical University Dortmund, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Julia Duda
- Department of Statistics, TU Dortmund University, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Qingbi Wang
- Department of Medicine III, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Johanna Reißing
- Department of Medicine III, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Hanns-Ulrich Marschall
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Lena S Candels
- Department of Medicine III, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Mohamed Mohamed
- Department of Medicine III, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Wilhelm Sjöland
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Lijun Liao
- Department of Pain Management, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Stephan A Drexler
- Department of Medicine III, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Till Strowig
- Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Braunschweig, Germany
| | | | - Jan G Hengstler
- Department of Toxicology, Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors, Technical University Dortmund, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Maximilian Hatting
- Department of Medicine III, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Christian Trautwein
- Department of Medicine III, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
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Shi Y, Shen W, Xu G, Wang X, Ning B. Hepatic venous pressure gradient and rebleeding risk of patients with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis cirrhosis after variceal bleeding. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1224506. [PMID: 37564045 PMCID: PMC10411529 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1224506] [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: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and aims Hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG) has a strong predictive value for variceal rebleeding in cirrhotic patients, but the accuracy of HVPG may be compromised in nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) cirrhosis. This study aimed to evaluate the accuracy of HVPG and portal pressure gradient (PPG) for predicting rebleeding in NASH cirrhosis after acute variceal bleeding. Patients and methods Thirty-eight NASH cirrhosis patients and 82 hepatitis B virus (HBV) cirrhosis patients with acute variceal bleeding were included in this study. All patients recived transjugular intrahepatic portalsystemic shunt (TIPS). The prognostic value of HVPG and PPG for variceal rebleeding was evaluated. Results Compared with HBV cirrhosis, NASH cirrhosis demonstrated a lower HVPG (15.3 ± 3.8 vs. 18.0 ± 4.8; p = 0.003) and lower PPG (18.0 ± 3.7 vs. 20.0 ± 3.4; p = 0.005). HVPG (AUC = 0.82; p = 0.002) and PPG (AUC = 0.72; p = 0.027) had promising prognostic value among NASH cirrhosis patients. The optimal threshold of HVPG and PPG for predicting rebleeding in NASH cirrhosis was 17 mmHg and 20 mmHg. At multivariate analysis, HVPG ≥17 mmHg was a significant predictor of variceal rebleeding (HR 9.40; 95% CI 1.85-47.70; p = 0.007). Conclusion In the patients with cirrhosis and vairceal bleeding, the levels of HVPG and PPG were found to be low in NASH cirrhosis than HBV cirrhosis. However, the prevalence of rebleeding was similar between two groups. HVPG measurement is still an accurate way to assess the risk of variceal rebleeding in NASH cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiqi Shi
- Digestive System Department, Yuzhong Hospital of the Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Wenyong Shen
- Digestive System Department, Chongqing Fuling Central Hospital of Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Gang Xu
- Digestive System Department, Chongqing Fuling Central Hospital of Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xunzheng Wang
- Digestive System Department, Jiangnan Hospital of the Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Bo Ning
- Digestive System Department, Yuzhong Hospital of the Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
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He YH, Pan JX, Xu LM, Gu T, Chen YW. Ductular reaction in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: When Macbeth is perverted. World J Hepatol 2023; 15:725-740. [PMID: 37397935 PMCID: PMC10308290 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v15.i6.725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) or metabolic (dysfunction)-associated fatty liver disease is the leading cause of chronic liver diseases defined as a disease spectrum comprising hepatic steatosis, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatic carcinoma. NASH, characterized by hepatocyte injury, steatosis, inflammation, and fibrosis, is associated with NAFLD prognosis. Ductular reaction (DR) is a common compensatory reaction associated with liver injury, which involves the hepatic progenitor cells (HPCs), hepatic stellate cells, myofibroblasts, inflammatory cells (such as macrophages), and their secreted substances. Recently, several studies have shown that the extent of DR parallels the stage of NASH and fibrosis. This review summarizes previous research on the correlation between DR and NASH, the potential interplay mechanism driving HPC differentiation, and NASH progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang-Huan He
- Department of Gastroenterology and Department of Geriatrics, Huadong Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Jia-Xing Pan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Lei-Ming Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, School of Medicine, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Ting Gu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Huadong Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Yuan-Wen Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Department of Geriatrics, Huadong Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
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Yang S, Duan Z, Zhang S, Fan C, Zhu C, Fu R, Ma X, Fan D. Ginsenoside Rh4 Improves Hepatic Lipid Metabolism and Inflammation in a Model of NAFLD by Targeting the Gut Liver Axis and Modulating the FXR Signaling Pathway. Foods 2023; 12:2492. [PMID: 37444230 DOI: 10.3390/foods12132492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 06/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a series of disorders of liver metabolism caused by the accumulation of lipids in the liver, which is considered the main cause of hepatocellular carcinoma. Our previous study demonstrated the promising efficacy of ginsenoside Rh4 in improving the intestinal tract and its related metabolites. Meanwhile, many studies in the literature have investigated the gut microbiota and its metabolites, such as bile acids (BAs) and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which play a key role in the pathogenesis of NAFLD. Therefore, this study focused on whether Rh4 could achieve therapeutic effects on NAFLD through the gut-liver axis. The results showed that Rh4 exhibited sound therapeutic effects on the NAFLD model induced by the Western diet and CCl4 in mice. In the liver, the degrees of hepatic steatosis, lobular inflammation levels, and bile acid in the liver tissue were improved after Rh4 treatment. At the same time, Rh4 treatment significantly increased the levels of intestinal SCFAs and BAs, and these changes were accompanied by the complementary diversity and composition of intestinal flora. In addition, correlation analysis showed that Rh4 affected the expression of proteins involved in the farnesoid X receptor (FXR) signaling pathway in the liver and intestine, which modulates hepatic lipid metabolism, inflammation, and proteins related to bile acid regulation. In conclusion, our study provides a valuable insight into how Rh4 targets the gut-liver axis for the development of NAFLD, which indicates that Rh4 may be a promising candidate for the clinical therapy of NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siming Yang
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Degradable Biomedical Materials, School of Chemical Engineering, Northwest University, Xi'an 710127, China
- Shaanxi R&D Center of Biomaterials and Fermentation Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering, Northwest University, Xi'an 710069, China
- Biotechnology & Biomed, Research Institute, School of Chemical Engineering, Northwest University, 229 North Taibai Road, Xi'an 710069, China
| | - Zhiguang Duan
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Degradable Biomedical Materials, School of Chemical Engineering, Northwest University, Xi'an 710127, China
- Shaanxi R&D Center of Biomaterials and Fermentation Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering, Northwest University, Xi'an 710069, China
- Biotechnology & Biomed, Research Institute, School of Chemical Engineering, Northwest University, 229 North Taibai Road, Xi'an 710069, China
| | - Sen Zhang
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Degradable Biomedical Materials, School of Chemical Engineering, Northwest University, Xi'an 710127, China
- Shaanxi R&D Center of Biomaterials and Fermentation Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering, Northwest University, Xi'an 710069, China
- Biotechnology & Biomed, Research Institute, School of Chemical Engineering, Northwest University, 229 North Taibai Road, Xi'an 710069, China
| | - Cuiying Fan
- Xi'an Giant Biogene Technology Co., Ltd., No. 20, Zone C, Venture R&D Park, No. 69, Jinye Road, High-tech Zone, Xi'an 710077, China
| | - Chenhui Zhu
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Degradable Biomedical Materials, School of Chemical Engineering, Northwest University, Xi'an 710127, China
- Shaanxi R&D Center of Biomaterials and Fermentation Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering, Northwest University, Xi'an 710069, China
- Biotechnology & Biomed, Research Institute, School of Chemical Engineering, Northwest University, 229 North Taibai Road, Xi'an 710069, China
| | - Rongzhan Fu
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Degradable Biomedical Materials, School of Chemical Engineering, Northwest University, Xi'an 710127, China
- Shaanxi R&D Center of Biomaterials and Fermentation Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering, Northwest University, Xi'an 710069, China
- Biotechnology & Biomed, Research Institute, School of Chemical Engineering, Northwest University, 229 North Taibai Road, Xi'an 710069, China
| | - Xiaoxuan Ma
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Degradable Biomedical Materials, School of Chemical Engineering, Northwest University, Xi'an 710127, China
- Shaanxi R&D Center of Biomaterials and Fermentation Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering, Northwest University, Xi'an 710069, China
- Biotechnology & Biomed, Research Institute, School of Chemical Engineering, Northwest University, 229 North Taibai Road, Xi'an 710069, China
| | - Daidi Fan
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Degradable Biomedical Materials, School of Chemical Engineering, Northwest University, Xi'an 710127, China
- Shaanxi R&D Center of Biomaterials and Fermentation Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering, Northwest University, Xi'an 710069, China
- Biotechnology & Biomed, Research Institute, School of Chemical Engineering, Northwest University, 229 North Taibai Road, Xi'an 710069, China
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Korn A, Nadeem C, Bos EN, Niessen HWM, Simsek S, Krijnen PAJ. Hepatic Fat and Macrophages Are Increased in Livers of Diabetic Patients without Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease. Pathobiology 2023; 90:409-416. [PMID: 37315545 DOI: 10.1159/000531542] [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: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Diabetes mellitus (DM), especially type 2, is strongly associated with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Recent studies indicate that particularly in DM patients, "simple" liver steatosis can progress into more severe disease. However, little is known about putative hepatic histopathological changes in DM patients without NAFLD. In this study, we therefore analysed fat content and inflammatory cell infiltration in the livers of deceased DM and non-DM patients without NAFLD, and analysed age/sex effects hereon. METHODS Hepatic fat and inflammatory cells were studied through (immuno)histochemical analysis in liver tissue from 24 DM patients and 66 non-diabetic controls, without histopathological characteristics of NAFLD. RESULTS We observed a 2-fold increase in fat percentage/mm2 and a near 5-fold increase in the number of fat-containing cells/mm2 in DM patients compared to non-diabetic controls. Fat content was significantly higher in patients with type 2 DM, but not type 1 DM, compared to non-diabetic controls, while the number of CD68+ cells/mm2 was significantly elevated in both DM groups. CONCLUSION Hepatic fat and number of macrophages are increased in patients with DM without NAFLD, which may reflect a higher risk on development of steatosis and steatohepatitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amber Korn
- Department of Pathology, Amsterdam University Medical Centre (AUMC), Location VUmc, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Cacharel Nadeem
- Department of Pathology, Amsterdam University Medical Centre (AUMC), Location VUmc, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Emma N Bos
- Department of Pathology, Amsterdam University Medical Centre (AUMC), Location VUmc, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Hans W M Niessen
- Department of Pathology, Amsterdam University Medical Centre (AUMC), Location VUmc, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, AUMC, Location VUmc, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Suat Simsek
- Department of Internal Medicine, Northwest Clinics, Alkmaar, The Netherlands
- Department of Internal Medicine, AUMC, Location VUmc, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Paul A J Krijnen
- Department of Pathology, Amsterdam University Medical Centre (AUMC), Location VUmc, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Abstract
The understanding of the mechanisms of liver fibrosis has been dominated by models in which chronic hepatocellular injury is the initiating step as is seen with viral infections. The increased prevalence of the metabolic syndrome, and the increases in liver fibrosis due to metabolic syndrome driven non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), has made it a priority to understand how this type of liver fibrosis is similar to, and different from, pure hepatocellular injury driven liver fibrosis. Both types of liver fibrosis have the transformation of the hepatic stellate cell (HSC) into a myofibroblast as a key step. In metabolic syndrome, there is little evidence that metabolite changes such as high levels of glucose and free fatty acids are directly inducing HSC transdifferentiation, however, metabolite changes may lead to reductions in immunomodulatory and hepatoprotective molecules such as lipoxins, resolvins and Interleukin (IL)-22. Cells of the innate immune system are known to be important intermediaries between hepatocellular damage and HSC transdifferentiation, primarily by producing cytokines such as transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) and platelet derived growth factor (PDGF). Resident and infiltrating macrophages are the dominant innate immune cells, but others (dendritic cells, neutrophils, natural killer T cells and mucosal-associated invariant T cells) also have important roles in inducing and resolving liver fibrosis. CD8+ and CD4+ T cells of the adaptive immune system have been identified to have greater profibrotic roles than previously realised by inducing hepatocyte death (auto-aggressive CD8+T) cells and cytokines producing (TH17 producing CD4+T) cells. Finally, the cellular networks present in NASH fibrosis are being identified and suggest that once fibrosis has developed cell-to-cell communication is dominated by myofibroblasts autocrine signalling followed by communication with cholangiocytes and endothelial cells, with myofibroblast-hepatocyte, and myofibroblast-macrophage signalling having minor roles. Such information is essential to the development of antifibrotic strategies for different stages of fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wajahat Mehal
- Section of Digestive Diseases, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
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Weiss JM, Palmieri EM, Gonzalez-Cotto M, Bettencourt IA, Megill EL, Snyder NW, McVicar DW. Itaconic acid underpins hepatocyte lipid metabolism in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in male mice. Nat Metab 2023; 5:981-995. [PMID: 37308721 PMCID: PMC10290955 DOI: 10.1038/s42255-023-00801-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Itaconate, the product of the decarboxylation of cis-aconitate, regulates numerous biological processes. We and others have revealed itaconate as a regulator of fatty acid β-oxidation, generation of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species and the metabolic interplay between resident macrophages and tumors. In the present study, we show that itaconic acid is upregulated in human non-alcoholic steatohepatitis and a mouse model of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Male mice deficient in the gene responsible for itaconate production (immunoresponsive gene (Irg)-1) have exacerbated lipid accumulation in the liver, glucose and insulin intolerance and mesenteric fat deposition. Treatment of mice with the itaconate derivative, 4-octyl itaconate, reverses dyslipidemia associated with high-fat diet feeding. Mechanistically, itaconate treatment of primary hepatocytes reduces lipid accumulation and increases their oxidative phosphorylation in a manner dependent upon fatty acid oxidation. We propose a model whereby macrophage-derived itaconate acts in trans upon hepatocytes to modulate the liver's ability to metabolize fatty acids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan M Weiss
- Cancer Innovation Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, NCI Frederick, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Erika M Palmieri
- Cancer Innovation Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, NCI Frederick, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Marieli Gonzalez-Cotto
- Cancer Innovation Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, NCI Frederick, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Ian A Bettencourt
- Cancer Innovation Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, NCI Frederick, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Emily L Megill
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Nathaniel W Snyder
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Daniel W McVicar
- Cancer Innovation Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, NCI Frederick, Frederick, MD, USA.
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Zhang Q, Jin Y, Xin X, An Z, Hu YY, Li Y, Feng Q. A high-trans fat, high-carbohydrate, high-cholesterol, high-cholate diet-induced nonalcoholic steatohepatitis mouse model and its hepatic immune response. Nutr Metab (Lond) 2023; 20:28. [PMID: 37244987 DOI: 10.1186/s12986-023-00749-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a chronic progressive disease that can progress to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Animal models are important tools for basic NASH research. Immune activation plays a key role in liver inflammation in patients with NASH. We established a high-trans fat, high-carbohydrate, and high-cholesterol, high-cholate diet-induced (HFHCCC) mouse model. C57BL/6 mice were fed a normal or HFHCCC diet for 24 weeks, and the immune response characteristics of this model were evaluated. The proportion of immune cells in mouse liver tissues was detected by immunohistochemistry and flow cytometry, Multiplex bead immunoassay and Luminex technology was used to detecte the expression of cytokines in mouse liver tissues. The results showed that mice treated with HFHCCC diet exhibited remarkably increased hepatic triglycerides (TG) content, and the increase in plasma transaminases resulted in hepatocyte injury. Biochemical results showed that HFHCCC induced elevated hepatic lipids, blood glucose, insulin; marked hepatocyte steatosis, ballooning, inflammation, and fibrosis. The proportion of innate immunity-related cells, including Kupffer cells (KCs), neutrophils, dendritic cells (DCs), natural killer T cells (NKT), and adaptive immunity-related CD3+ T cells increased; interleukin-1α (IL-1α), IL-1β, IL-2, IL-6, IL-9, and chemokines, including CCL2, CCL3, and macrophage colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) increased. The constructed model closely approximated the characteristics of human NASH and evaluation of its immune response signature, showed that the innate immune response was more pronounced than adaptive immunity. Its use as an experimental tool for understanding innate immune responses in NASH is recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Zhang
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Pudong District, Shanghai, 201203, China
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1200 Cailun Road, Pudong New Area, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Yue Jin
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Pudong District, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Xin Xin
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Pudong District, Shanghai, 201203, China
- Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ministry of Education, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Ziming An
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Pudong District, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Yi-Yang Hu
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Pudong District, Shanghai, 201203, China
- Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ministry of Education, Shanghai, 201203, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yajuan Li
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1200 Cailun Road, Pudong New Area, Shanghai, 201203, China.
| | - Qin Feng
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 528 Zhangheng Road, Pudong District, Shanghai, 201203, China.
- Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ministry of Education, Shanghai, 201203, China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shanghai, China.
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Li X, Lu Y, Liang X, Zhou X, Li D, Zhang Z, Niu Y, Liu S, Ye L, Zhang R. A new NASH model in aged mice with rapid progression of steatohepatitis and fibrosis. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0286257. [PMID: 37228085 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0286257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has a high prevalence worldwide, with a significant proportion of patients progressing into non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and further into cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Most of the current animal models of NASH have limitations, such as incompatibility with human pathogenesis characteristics or long induction periods, which severely limit the development of new drugs and preclinical studies for NASH. We investigated the progression of NASH and fibrosis, as well as metabolic indicators, at different time points in aged mice induced by the Gubra Amylin NASH (GAN) diet, a high-fat, high-sugar, high-cholesterol diet, and attempted to establish a rapid and useful mouse model of NASH. Young and aged C57BL/6 mice were induced on a normal chow or GAN diet for 12 and 21 weeks, respectively. After 12 weeks of induction, aged mice developed NASH, including hepatic steatosis, lobular inflammation and hepatic ballooning, and the phenotype was more severe compared with young mice. After 21 weeks of induction, aged mice developed hepatic fibrosis, which greatly shortened the induction time compared with young mice. Furthermore, analysis of immune cell infiltration in the liver by flow cytometry elucidated the changes of multiple immune cells during the pathogenesis of NASH. These findings suggest that aged mice may develop NASH and fibrosis more rapidly under GAN diet induction, which may significantly shorten the period for preclinical studies of NASH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuecheng Li
- Biocytogen Pharmaceuticals (Beijing) Co., Ltd, Beijing, Daxing District, China
| | - Yi Lu
- Biocytogen Pharmaceuticals (Beijing) Co., Ltd, Beijing, Daxing District, China
| | - Xiaoshuang Liang
- Biocytogen Pharmaceuticals (Beijing) Co., Ltd, Beijing, Daxing District, China
| | - Xiaofei Zhou
- Biocytogen Pharmaceuticals (Beijing) Co., Ltd, Beijing, Daxing District, China
| | - Dirui Li
- Biocytogen Pharmaceuticals (Beijing) Co., Ltd, Beijing, Daxing District, China
| | - Zan Zhang
- Biocytogen Pharmaceuticals (Beijing) Co., Ltd, Beijing, Daxing District, China
| | - Yunchao Niu
- Biocytogen Pharmaceuticals (Beijing) Co., Ltd, Beijing, Daxing District, China
| | - Shuaishuai Liu
- Biocytogen Pharmaceuticals (Beijing) Co., Ltd, Beijing, Daxing District, China
| | - Ling Ye
- Biocytogen Pharmaceuticals (Beijing) Co., Ltd, Beijing, Daxing District, China
| | - Rufeng Zhang
- Biocytogen Pharmaceuticals (Beijing) Co., Ltd, Beijing, Daxing District, China
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Wang HW, Tang J, Sun L, Li Z, Deng M, Dai Z. Mechanism of immune attack in the progression of obesity-related type 2 diabetes. World J Diabetes 2023; 14:494-511. [PMID: 37273249 PMCID: PMC10236992 DOI: 10.4239/wjd.v14.i5.494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Obesity and overweight are widespread issues in adults, children, and adolescents globally, and have caused a noticeable rise in obesity-related complications such as type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Chronic low-grade inflammation is an important promotor of the pathogenesis of obesity-related T2DM. This proinflammatory activation occurs in multiple organs and tissues. Immune cell-mediated systemic attack is considered to contribute strongly to impaired insulin secretion, insulin resistance, and other metabolic disorders. This review focused on highlighting recent advances and underlying mechanisms of immune cell infiltration and inflammatory responses in the gut, islet, and insulin-targeting organs (adipose tissue, liver, skeletal muscle) in obesity-related T2DM. There is current evidence that both the innate and adaptive immune systems contribute to the development of obesity and T2DM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua-Wei Wang
- Department of Endocrinology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, Hubei Province, China
| | - Jun Tang
- Department of Endocrinology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, Hubei Province, China
| | - Li Sun
- Department of Endocrinology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, Hubei Province, China
| | - Zhen Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, Hubei Province, China
| | - Ming Deng
- Department of Radiology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, Hubei Province, China
| | - Zhe Dai
- Department of Endocrinology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, Hubei Province, China
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Ma DW, Ha J, Yoon KS, Kang I, Choi TG, Kim SS. Innate Immune System in the Pathogenesis of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease. Nutrients 2023; 15:2068. [PMID: 37432213 DOI: 10.3390/nu15092068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a prevalent condition characterized by lipid accumulation in hepatocytes with low alcohol consumption. The development of sterile inflammation, which occurs in response to a range of cellular stressors or injuries, has been identified as a major contributor to the pathogenesis of NAFLD. Recent studies of the pathogenesis of NAFLD reported the newly developed roles of damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs). These molecules activate pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), which are placed in the infiltrated neutrophils, dendritic cells, monocytes, or Kupffer cells. DAMPs cause the activation of PRRs, which triggers a number of immunological responses, including the generation of cytokines that promote inflammation and the localization of immune cells to the site of the damage. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the impact of DAMPs and PRRs on the development of NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dae Won Ma
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
- Department of Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Joohun Ha
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
- Department of Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
- Biomedical Science Institute, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung Sik Yoon
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Insug Kang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
- Department of Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
- Biomedical Science Institute, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae Gyu Choi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
- Biomedical Science Institute, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Soo Kim
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
- Department of Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
- Biomedical Science Institute, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
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45
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Sameh A, Gouda AA, Elmligy E, Hatem H, Sadek SS, Ahmed O, El Amir A. Bee venom as an alternative for antibiotics against Staphylococcus aureus infections. Sci Rep 2023; 13:6436. [PMID: 37081055 PMCID: PMC10119156 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-33536-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The misuse of antibiotics has led to antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains, making it even harder to combat and eliminate their infections. Staphylococcus aureus causes various adverse infections and diseases, including skin abscesses, bloodstream infections, pneumonia, and joint infections. In this study, we aimed to test the cytotoxic and antibacterial effects of bee venom-loaded chitosan nanoparticles (BV-loaded CS-NPs) in comparison to gamma-irradiated BV and native BV from Apis mellifera. The physiochemical characterizations of our treatments were determined by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM), zeta-potential, release rate, and Encapsulation Efficiency (EE). Our study was conducted on both levels, in-vitro and in-vivo. For the in-vitro study, a bacterial model of Staphylococcus aureus with an ATCC number of 6538 was grown in tryptic soy agar (TSA) medium, and the inhibition zones of our drug candidates were measured with the appropriate statistical analysis performed. For the in-vivo study, levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), Creatinine, Urea, and interleukin 6 (IL-6) were analyzed. BV-loaded CS-NPs showed relatively better results than the other alternatives, which are native BV and gamma-irradiated BV. The results showed that the antibacterial effect of BV-loaded CS-NPs was greater than the alternatives. Furthermore, its cytotoxic effect was far less than the native and irradiated bee venom. These outcomes ensure that loading BV on CS-NPs makes it a promising drug candidate for an antibiotic alternative with minimal cytotoxicity and enhanced antibacterial activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Sameh
- Biotechnology Deptartment, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza, 12613, Egypt
| | - Amr A Gouda
- Biotechnology Deptartment, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza, 12613, Egypt
| | - Esraa Elmligy
- Biotechnology Deptartment, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza, 12613, Egypt
| | - Hossam Hatem
- Biotechnology Deptartment, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza, 12613, Egypt
| | - Salma S Sadek
- Biotechnology Deptartment, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza, 12613, Egypt
| | - Osama Ahmed
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza, 12613, Egypt
| | - Azza El Amir
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza, 12613, Egypt.
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Conway J, Pouryahya M, Gindin Y, Pan DZ, Carrasco-Zevallos OM, Mountain V, Subramanian GM, Montalto MC, Resnick M, Beck AH, Huss RS, Myers RP, Taylor-Weiner A, Wapinski I, Chung C. Integration of deep learning-based histopathology and transcriptomics reveals key genes associated with fibrogenesis in patients with advanced NASH. Cell Rep Med 2023; 4:101016. [PMID: 37075704 PMCID: PMC10140650 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2023.101016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Revised: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023]
Abstract
Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is the most common chronic liver disease globally and a leading cause for liver transplantation in the US. Its pathogenesis remains imprecisely defined. We combined two high-resolution modalities to tissue samples from NASH clinical trials, machine learning (ML)-based quantification of histological features and transcriptomics, to identify genes that are associated with disease progression and clinical events. A histopathology-driven 5-gene expression signature predicted disease progression and clinical events in patients with NASH with F3 (pre-cirrhotic) and F4 (cirrhotic) fibrosis. Notably, the Notch signaling pathway and genes implicated in liver-related diseases were enriched in this expression signature. In a validation cohort where pharmacologic intervention improved disease histology, multiple Notch signaling components were suppressed.
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47
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Zhao J, Lee K, Toh HC, Lam KP, Neo SY. Unravelling the role of obesity and lipids during tumor progression. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1163160. [PMID: 37063269 PMCID: PMC10097918 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1163160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The dysregulation of the biochemical pathways in cancer promotes oncogenic transformations and metastatic potential. Recent studies have shed light on how obesity and altered lipid metabolism could be the driving force for tumor progression. Here, in this review, we focus on liver cancer and discuss how obesity and lipid-driven metabolic reprogramming affect tumor, immune, and stroma cells in the tumor microenvironment and, in turn, how alterations in these cells synergize to influence and contribute to tumor growth and dissemination. With increasing evidence on how obesity exacerbates inflammation and immune tolerance, we also touch upon the impact of obesity and altered lipid metabolism on tumor immune escape.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junzhe Zhao
- Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
- Division of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Keene Lee
- Singapore Immunology Network (SIgN), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Han Chong Toh
- Division of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Kong Peng Lam
- Singapore Immunology Network (SIgN), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, Singapore
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Shi Yong Neo
- Singapore Immunology Network (SIgN), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Oncology and Pathology, Karolinska Institute, Solna, Sweden
- *Correspondence: Shi Yong Neo,
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48
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Guha Ray A, Odum OP, Wiseman D, Weinstock A. The diverse roles of macrophages in metabolic inflammation and its resolution. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1147434. [PMID: 36994095 PMCID: PMC10041730 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1147434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Macrophages are one of the most functionally diverse immune cells, indispensable to maintain tissue integrity and metabolic health. Macrophages perform a myriad of functions ranging from promoting inflammation, through inflammation resolution to restoring and maintaining tissue homeostasis. Metabolic diseases encompass a growing list of diseases which develop from a mix of genetics and environmental cues leading to metabolic dysregulation and subsequent inflammation. In this review, we summarize the contributions of macrophages to four metabolic conditions-insulin resistance and adipose tissue inflammation, atherosclerosis, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and neurodegeneration. The role of macrophages is complex, yet they hold great promise as potential therapies to address these growing health concerns.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Ada Weinstock
- Section of Genetic Medicine, Department of Medicine, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
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49
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Yildiz E, El Alam G, Perino A, Jalil A, Denechaud PD, Huber K, Fajas L, Auwerx J, Sorrentino G, Schoonjans K. Hepatic lipid overload triggers biliary epithelial cell activation via E2Fs. eLife 2023; 12:81926. [PMID: 36876915 PMCID: PMC10030116 DOI: 10.7554/elife.81926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2023] Open
Abstract
During severe or chronic hepatic injury, biliary epithelial cells (BECs) undergo rapid activation into proliferating progenitors, a crucial step required to establish a regenerative process known as ductular reaction (DR). While DR is a hallmark of chronic liver diseases, including advanced stages of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), the early events underlying BEC activation are largely unknown. Here, we demonstrate that BECs readily accumulate lipids during high-fat diet feeding in mice and upon fatty acid treatment in BEC-derived organoids. Lipid overload induces metabolic rewiring to support the conversion of adult cholangiocytes into reactive BECs. Mechanistically, we found that lipid overload activates the E2F transcription factors in BECs, which drive cell cycle progression while promoting glycolytic metabolism. These findings demonstrate that fat overload is sufficient to reprogram BECs into progenitor cells in the early stages of NAFLD and provide new insights into the mechanistic basis of this process, revealing unexpected connections between lipid metabolism, stemness, and regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ece Yildiz
- Laboratory of Metabolic Signaling, Institute of Bioengineering, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Gaby El Alam
- Laboratory of Integrative Systems Physiology, Institute of Bioengineering, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Alessia Perino
- Laboratory of Metabolic Signaling, Institute of Bioengineering, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Antoine Jalil
- Laboratory of Metabolic Signaling, Institute of Bioengineering, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | | | - Katharina Huber
- Center for Integrative Genomics, Université de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Lluis Fajas
- Center for Integrative Genomics, Université de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- INSERM, Occitanie, Montpellier, France
| | - Johan Auwerx
- Laboratory of Integrative Systems Physiology, Institute of Bioengineering, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Giovanni Sorrentino
- Laboratory of Metabolic Signaling, Institute of Bioengineering, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Kristina Schoonjans
- Laboratory of Metabolic Signaling, Institute of Bioengineering, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
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50
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Tan Y, Wang J. Letter: ductular reaction is a risk factor for prognosis of chronic hepatitis B complicated with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2023; 57:446-447. [PMID: 36710539 DOI: 10.1111/apt.17383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2022] [Revised: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Youwen Tan
- Department of Hepatology, The Third Hospital of Zhenjiang Affiliated Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Jiaming Wang
- Department of Hepatology, The Third Hospital of Zhenjiang Affiliated Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
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