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Chen L, Ye X, Yang L, Zhao J, You J, Feng Y. Linking fatty liver diseases to hepatocellular carcinoma by hepatic stellate cells. JOURNAL OF THE NATIONAL CANCER CENTER 2024; 4:25-35. [PMID: 39036388 PMCID: PMC11256631 DOI: 10.1016/j.jncc.2024.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), a distinct category of non-parenchymal cells in the liver, are critical for liver homeostasis. In healthy livers, HSCs remain non-proliferative and quiescent. However, under conditions of acute or chronic liver damage, HSCs are activated and participate in the progression and regulation of liver diseases such as liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and liver cancer. Fatty liver diseases (FLD), including nonalcoholic (NAFLD) and alcohol-related (ALD), are common chronic inflammatory conditions of the liver. These diseases, often resulting from multiple metabolic disorders, can progress through a sequence of inflammation, fibrosis, and ultimately, cancer. In this review, we focused on the activation and regulatory mechanism of HSCs in the context of FLD. We summarized the molecular pathways of activated HSCs (aHSCs) in mediating FLD and their role in promoting liver tumor development from the perspectives of cell proliferation, invasion, metastasis, angiogenesis, immunosuppression, and chemo-resistance. We aimed to offer an in-depth discussion on the reciprocal regulatory interactions between FLD and HSC activation, providing new insights for researchers in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang'en Chen
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, First Affiliated Hospital, and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiangshi Ye
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, First Affiliated Hospital, and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lixian Yang
- Cancer Center, Department of Radiation Oncology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, China
| | - Jiangsha Zhao
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, First Affiliated Hospital, and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jia You
- School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yuxiong Feng
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, First Affiliated Hospital, and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
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Xu N, Wu J, Wang W, Sun S, Sun M, Bian Y, Zhang H, Liu S, Yu G. Anti-tumor therapy of glycyrrhetinic acid targeted liposome co-delivery of doxorubicin and berberine for hepatocellular carcinoma. Drug Deliv Transl Res 2024:10.1007/s13346-023-01512-7. [PMID: 38236508 DOI: 10.1007/s13346-023-01512-7] [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] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
During the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), hepatic stellate cells undergo activation and transform into cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) due to the influence of tumor cells. The interaction between CAFs and tumor cells can compromise the effectiveness of chemotherapy drugs and promote tumor proliferation, invasion, and metastasis. This study explores the potential of glycyrrhetinic acid (GA)-modified liposomes (lip-GA) as a strategy for co-delivery of berberine (Ber) and doxorubicin (Dox) to treat HCC. The characterizations of liposomes, including particle size, zeta potential, polydispersity index, stability and in vitro drug release, were investigated. The study evaluated the anti-proliferation and anti-migration effects of Dox&Ber@lip-GA on the Huh-7 + LX-2 cell model were through MTT and wound-healing assays. Additionally, the in vivo drug distribution and anti-tumor efficacy were investigated using the H22 + NIH-3T3-bearing mouse model. The results indicated that Dox&Ber@lip-GA exhibited a nanoscale particle size, accumulated specifically in the tumor region, and was efficiently taken up by tumor cells. Compared to other groups, Dox&Ber@lip-GA demonstrated higher cytotoxicity and lower migration rates. Additionally, it significantly reduced the deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) and inhibited tumor angiogenesis, thereby suppressing tumor growth. In conclusion, Dox&Ber@lip-GA exhibited superior anti-tumor effects both in vitro and in vivo, highlighting its potential as an effective therapeutic strategy for combating HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Xu
- School of Clinical Medicine, Weifang Medicine University, Weifang, China
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical College: Weifang People's Hospital, Weifang, China
| | - Jingliang Wu
- School of Nursing, Weifang University of Science and Technology, Weifang, China.
| | - Weihao Wang
- School of Clinical Medicine, Weifang Medicine University, Weifang, China
| | - Shujie Sun
- School of Nursing, Weifang University of Science and Technology, Weifang, China
| | - Mengmeng Sun
- School of Clinical Medicine, Weifang Medicine University, Weifang, China
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical College: Weifang People's Hospital, Weifang, China
| | - Yandong Bian
- School of Clinical Medicine, Weifang Medicine University, Weifang, China
| | - Huien Zhang
- School of Clinical Medicine, Weifang Medicine University, Weifang, China
| | - Shuzhen Liu
- School of Clinical Medicine, Weifang Medicine University, Weifang, China
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical College: Weifang People's Hospital, Weifang, China
| | - Guohua Yu
- School of Clinical Medicine, Weifang Medicine University, Weifang, China.
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical College: Weifang People's Hospital, Weifang, China.
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Peng X, Yang H, Tao L, Xiao J, Zeng Y, Shen Y, Yu X, Zhu F, Qin J. Fluorofenidone alleviates liver fibrosis by inhibiting hepatic stellate cell autophagy via the TGF-β1/Smad pathway: implications for liver cancer. PeerJ 2023; 11:e16060. [PMID: 37790613 PMCID: PMC10542821 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.16060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives Liver fibrosis is a key stage in the progression of various chronic liver diseases to cirrhosis and liver cancer, but at present, there is no effective treatment. This study investigated the therapeutic effect of the new antifibrotic drug fluorofenidone (AKF-PD) on liver fibrosis and its related mechanism, providing implications for liver cancer. Materials and Methods The effects of AKF-PD on hepatic stellate cell (HSC) autophagy and extracellular matrix (ECM) expression were assessed in a carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced rat liver fibrosis model. In vitro, HSC-T6 cells were transfected with Smad2 and Smad3 overexpression plasmids and treated with AKF-PD. The viability and number of autophagosomes in HSC-T6 cells were examined. The protein expression levels of Beclin-1, LC3 and P62 were examined by Western blotting. The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database was used for comprehensively analyzing the prognostic values of SMAD2 and SMAD3 in liver cancer. The correlation between SMAD2, SMAD3, and autophagy-related scores in liver cancer was explored. The drug prediction of autophagy-related scores in liver cancer was explored. Results AKF-PD attenuated liver injury and ECM deposition in the CCl4-induced liver fibrosis model. In vitro, the viability and number of autophagosomes in HSCs were reduced significantly by AKF-PD treatment. Meanwhile, the protein expression of FN, α-SMA, collagen III, Beclin-1 and LC3 was increased, and P62 was reduced by the overexpression of Smad2 and Smad3; however, AKF-PD reversed these effects. SMAD2 and SMAD3 were hazardous factors in liver cancer. SMAD2 and SMAD3 correlated with autophagy-related scores in liver cancer. Autophagy-related scores could predict drug response in liver cancer. Conclusions AKF-PD alleviates liver fibrosis by inhibiting HSC autophagy via the transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1/Smadpathway. Our study provided some implications about how liver fibrosis was connected with liver cancer by SMAD2/SMAD3 and autophagy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiongqun Peng
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Changsha Central Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Changsha, China
| | - Huixiang Yang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Lijian Tao
- Department of Nephropathy, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jingni Xiao
- Department of Nephrology, The Affiliated Changsha Central Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Changsha, China
| | - Ya Zeng
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Changsha Central Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Changsha, China
| | - Yueming Shen
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Changsha Central Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Changsha, China
| | - Xueke Yu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Changsha Central Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Changsha, China
| | - Fei Zhu
- Department of General Surgery, The Affiliated Changsha Central Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Changsha, China
| | - Jiao Qin
- Department of Nephrology, The Affiliated Changsha Central Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Changsha, China
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Sinha S, Aizawa S, Nakano Y, Rialdi A, Choi HY, Shrestha R, Pan SQ, Chen Y, Li M, Kapelanski-Lamoureux A, Yochum G, Sher L, Monga SP, Lazaris A, Machida K, Karin M, Guccione E, Tsukamoto H. Hepatic stellate cell stearoyl co-A desaturase activates leukotriene B4 receptor 2 - β-catenin cascade to promote liver tumorigenesis. Nat Commun 2023; 14:2651. [PMID: 37156770 PMCID: PMC10167314 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-38406-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the 3rd most deadly malignancy. Activated hepatic stellate cells (aHSC) give rise to cancer-associated fibroblasts in HCC and are considered a potential therapeutic target. Here we report that selective ablation of stearoyl CoA desaturase-2 (Scd2) in aHSC globally suppresses nuclear CTNNB1 and YAP1 in tumors and tumor microenvironment and prevents liver tumorigenesis in male mice. Tumor suppression is associated with reduced leukotriene B4 receptor 2 (LTB4R2) and its high affinity oxylipin ligand, 12-hydroxyheptadecatrienoic acid (12-HHTrE). Genetic or pharmacological inhibition of LTB4R2 recapitulates CTNNB1 and YAP1 inactivation and tumor suppression in culture and in vivo. Single cell RNA sequencing identifies a subset of tumor-associated aHSC expressing Cyp1b1 but no other 12-HHTrE biosynthetic genes. aHSC release 12-HHTrE in a manner dependent on SCD and CYP1B1 and their conditioned medium reproduces the LTB4R2-mediated tumor-promoting effects of 12-HHTrE in HCC cells. CYP1B1-expressing aHSC are detected in proximity of LTB4R2-positive HCC cells and the growth of patient HCC organoids is blunted by LTB4R2 antagonism or knockdown. Collectively, our findings suggest aHSC-initiated 12-HHTrE-LTB4R2-CTNNB1-YAP1 pathway as a potential HCC therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonal Sinha
- Southern California Research Center for ALPD and Cirrhosis, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA
- Department of Pathology, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA
| | - Satoka Aizawa
- Southern California Research Center for ALPD and Cirrhosis, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA
- Department of Pathology, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA
| | - Yasuhiro Nakano
- Laboratory of Cell Growth and Differentiation, Institute for Quantitative Biosciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, 113-0022, Japan
| | - Alexander Rialdi
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Hess Center for Science and Medicine, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Hye Yeon Choi
- Southern California Research Center for ALPD and Cirrhosis, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA
- Department of Pathology, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA
| | - Rajan Shrestha
- Southern California Research Center for ALPD and Cirrhosis, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA
- Department of Pathology, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA
| | - Stephanie Q Pan
- Southern California Research Center for ALPD and Cirrhosis, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA
- Department of Pathology, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA
| | - Yibu Chen
- USC Libraries Bioinformatics Services of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90089, USA
| | - Meng Li
- USC Libraries Bioinformatics Services of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90089, USA
| | | | - Gregory Yochum
- Department of Surgery, Pennsylvania State University, Hershey, PA, 17033, USA
| | - Linda Sher
- Department of Surgery, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA
| | - Satdarshan Paul Monga
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburg School of Medicine, Pittsburg, PA, 15213, USA
| | - Anthoula Lazaris
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, H3A 0G4, Canada
| | - Keigo Machida
- Southern California Research Center for ALPD and Cirrhosis, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA
| | - Michael Karin
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Ernesto Guccione
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Hess Center for Science and Medicine, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Hidekazu Tsukamoto
- Southern California Research Center for ALPD and Cirrhosis, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA.
- Department of Pathology, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA.
- Department of Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA, 90073, USA.
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5
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Ezhilarasan D, Najimi M. Deciphering the possible reciprocal loop between hepatic stellate cells and cancer cells in the tumor microenvironment of the liver. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2023; 182:103902. [PMID: 36621514 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2022.103902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs)/myofibroblasts are the important sources of cancer-associated fibroblasts in the liver tumor microenvironment (TME). The crosstalk between activated HSCs and tumor cells mediates HCC progression, metastasis, tumor cell survival, angiogenesis and chemoresistance. In TME, HCC cells secrete various soluble factors responsible for the phenotypic activation of quiescent HSCs. Tumor cells use activated HSC-derived extracellular matrix (ECM) for migration and invasion. Further, in liver TME, activated HSCs and sinusoidal endothelial cells engage in a crosstalk that causes the secretion of angiogenesis and metastasis-related growth factors and cytokines. Activated HSCs and immune cells crosstalk to decrease immune surveillance in the liver TME by increasing the population of T regulatory cells and M2 macrophages or myeloid-derived suppressor cells. Thus, HSCs play a vital role in liver TME cell interactions. Therefore, a deep understanding of HSCs activation and their crosstalk with cancer and immune cells in TME may lead to the development of novel therapeutic strategies to target HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devaraj Ezhilarasan
- Department of Pharmacology, Saveetha Dental College, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600077, India.
| | - Mustapha Najimi
- Laboratory of Pediatric Hepatology and Cell Therapy, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), UCLouvain, Brussels 1200, Belgium
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6
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Devan AR, Pavithran K, Nair B, Murali M, Nath LR. Deciphering the role of transforming growth factor-beta 1 as a diagnostic-prognostic-therapeutic candidate against hepatocellular carcinoma. World J Gastroenterol 2022; 28:5250-5264. [PMID: 36185626 PMCID: PMC9521521 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v28.i36.5250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Revised: 04/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) is a multifunctional cytokine that performs a dual role as a tumor suppressor and tumor promoter during cancer progression. Among different ligands of the TGF-β family, TGF-β1 modulates most of its biological outcomes. Despite the abundant expression of TGF-β1 in the liver, steatosis to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) progression triggers elevated TGF-β1 levels, contributing to poor prognosis and survival. Additionally, elevated TGF-β1 levels in the tumor microenvironment create an immunosuppressive stage via various mechanisms. TGF-β1 has a prime role as a diagnostic and prognostic biomarker in HCC. Moreover, TGF-β1 is widely studied as a therapeutic target either as monotherapy or combined with immune checkpoint inhibitors. This review provides clinical relevance and up-to-date information regarding the potential of TGF-β1 in diagnosis, prognosis, and therapy against HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aswathy R Devan
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Amrita School of Pharmacy, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, AIMS Health Science Campus, Kochi 682041, Kerala, India
| | - Keechilat Pavithran
- Department of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Kochi 682041, Kerala, India
| | - Bhagyalakshmi Nair
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Amrita School of Pharmacy, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, AIMS Health Science Campus, Kochi 682041, Kerala, India
| | - Maneesha Murali
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Amrita School of Pharmacy, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, AIMS Health Science Campus, Kochi 682041, Kerala, India
| | - Lekshmi R Nath
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Amrita School of Pharmacy, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, AIMS Health Science Campus, Kochi 682041, Kerala, India
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Aoki T, Nishida N, Kudo M. Current Perspectives on the Immunosuppressive Niche and Role of Fibrosis in Hepatocellular Carcinoma and the Development of Antitumor Immunity. J Histochem Cytochem 2022; 70:53-81. [PMID: 34751050 PMCID: PMC8721576 DOI: 10.1369/00221554211056853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors have become the mainstay of treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, they are ineffective in some cases. Previous studies have reported that genetic alterations in oncogenic pathways such as Wnt/β-catenin are the important triggers in HCC for primary refractoriness. T-cell exhaustion has been reported in various tumors and is likely to play a prominent role in the emergence of HCC due to chronic inflammation and cirrhosis-associated immune dysfunction. Immunosuppressive cells including regulatory T-cells and tumor-associated macrophages infiltrating the tumor are associated with hyperprogressive disease in the early stages of immune checkpoint inhibitor treatment. In addition, stellate cells and tumor-associated fibroblasts create an abundant desmoplastic environment by producing extracellular matrix. This strongly contributes to epithelial to mesenchymal transition via signaling activities including transforming growth factor beta, Wnt/β-catenin, and Hippo pathway. The abundant desmoplastic environment has been demonstrated in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma and cholangiocarcinoma to suppress cytotoxic T-cell infiltration, PD-L1 expression, and neoantigen expression, resulting in a highly immunosuppressive niche. It is possible that a similar immunosuppressive environment is created in HCC with advanced fibrosis in the background liver. Although sufficient understanding is required for the establishment of immune therapies of HCC, further investigations are still required in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomoko Aoki
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine, Kindai University, Osaka-Sayama, Japan
| | - Naoshi Nishida
- Naoshi Nishida, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine, Kindai University, 377-2 Ohno-higashi, Osaka-Sayama 589-8511, Japan. E-mail:
| | - Masatoshi Kudo
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine, Kindai University, Osaka-Sayama, Japan
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Direct and Indirect Effect of TGFβ on Treg Transendothelial Recruitment in HCC Tissue Microenvironment. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222111765. [PMID: 34769191 PMCID: PMC8583957 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Revised: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The balance between anti-tumor and tumor-promoting immune cells, such as CD4+ Th1 and regulatory T cells (Tregs), respectively, is assumed to dictate the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) markedly shapes the HCC microenvironment, regulating the activation state of multiple leukocyte subsets and driving the differentiation of cancer associated fibroblasts (CAFs). The fibrotic (desmoplastic) reaction in HCC tissue strongly depends on CAFs activity. In this study, we attempted to assess the role of TGFβ on transendothelial migration of Th1-oriented and Treg-oriented CD4+ T cells via a direct or indirect, CAF-mediated mechanisms, respectively. We found that the blockage of TGFβ receptor I-dependent signaling in Tregs resulted in impaired transendothelial migration (TEM) of these cells. Interestingly, the secretome of TGFβ-treated CAFs inhibited the TEM of Tregs but not Th1 cells, in comparison to the secretome of untreated CAFs. In addition, we found a significant inverse correlation between alpha-SMA and FoxP3 (marker of Tregs) mRNA expression in a microarray analysis involving 78 HCCs, thus suggesting that TGFβ-activated stromal cells may counteract the trafficking of Tregs into the tumor. The apparent dual behavior of TGFβ as both pro- and anti-tumorigenic cytokines may add a further level of complexity to the mechanisms that regulate the interactions among cancerous, stromal, and immune cells within HCC, as well as other solid tumors, and contribute to better manipulation of the TGFβ signaling as a therapeutic target in HCC patients.
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Wu M, Miao H, Fu R, Zhang J, Zheng W. Hepatic Stellate Cell: A Potential Target for Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Curr Mol Pharmacol 2021; 13:261-272. [PMID: 32091349 DOI: 10.2174/1874467213666200224102820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2019] [Revised: 01/11/2020] [Accepted: 01/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Liver cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide, in which hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) accounts for the majority. Despite the progression in treatment, the prognosis remains extremely poor for HCC patients. The mechanisms of hepatocarcinogenesis are complex, of which fibrosis is acknowledged as the pre-cancerous stage of HCC. Approximately, 80-90% of HCC develops in the fibrotic or cirrhotic livers. Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), the main effector cells of liver fibrosis, could secret various biological contents to maintain the liver inflammation. By decades, HSCs are increasingly correlated with HCC in the tumor microenvironment. In this review, we summarized the underlying mechanisms that HSCs participated in the genesis and progression of HCC. HSCs secrete various bioactive contents and regulate tumor-related pathways, subsequently contribute to metastasis, angiogenesis, immunosuppression, chemoresistance and cancer stemness. The study indicates that HSC plays vital roles in HCC progression, suggesting it as a promising therapeutic target for HCC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengna Wu
- Research Center of Clinical Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, 20 Xisi Road, 226001 Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Huajie Miao
- Research Center of Clinical Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, 20 Xisi Road, 226001 Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Rong Fu
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Haian Hospital of Nantong University, 17 Zhongba Road, 226600, Haian, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- Department of Chemotherapy, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, 20 Xisi Road, 226001 Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Wenjie Zheng
- Research Center of Clinical Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, 20 Xisi Road, 226001 Nantong, Jiangsu, China
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10
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Yang Y, Sun M, Li W, Liu C, Jiang Z, Gu P, Li J, Wang W, You R, Ba Q, Li X, Wang H. Rebalancing TGF-β/Smad7 signaling via Compound kushen injection in hepatic stellate cells protects against liver fibrosis and hepatocarcinogenesis. Clin Transl Med 2021; 11:e410. [PMID: 34323416 PMCID: PMC8255064 DOI: 10.1002/ctm2.410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Revised: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Liver fibrosis and fibrosis-related hepatocarcinogenesis are a rising cause for morbidity and death worldwide. Although transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) is a critical mediator of chronic liver fibrosis, targeting TGF-β isoforms and receptors lead to unacceptable side effect. This study was designed to explore the antifibrotic effect of Compound kushen injection (CKI), an approved traditional Chinese medicine formula, via a therapeutic strategy of rebalancing TGF-β/Smad7 signaling. METHODS A meta-analysis was performed to evaluate CKI intervention on viral hepatitis-induced fibrosis or cirrhosis in clinical randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Mice were given carbon tetrachloride (CCl4 ) injection or methionine-choline deficient (MCD) diet to induce liver fibrosis, followed by CKI treatment. We examined the expression of TGF-β/Smad signaling and typical fibrosis-related genes in hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and fibrotic liver tissues by qRT-PCR, Western blotting, RNA-seq, immunofluorescence, and immunohistochemistry. RESULTS Based on meta-analysis results, CKI improved the liver function and relieved liver fibrosis among patients. In our preclinical studies by using two mouse models, CKI treatment demonstrated promising antifibrotic effects and postponed hepatocarcinogenesis with improved liver function and histopathologic features. Mechanistically, we found that CKI inhibited HSCs activation by stabilizing the interaction of Smad7/TGF-βR1 to rebalance Smad2/Smad3 signaling, and subsequently decreased the extracellular matrix formation. Importantly, Smad7 depletion abolished the antifibrotic effect of CKI in vivo and in vitro. Moreover, matrine, oxymatrine, sophocarpine, and oxysophocarpine were identified as material basis responsible for the antifibrosis effect of CKI. CONCLUSIONS Our results unveil the approach of CKI in rebalancing TGF-β/Smad7 signaling in HSCs to protect against hepatic fibrosis and hepatocarcinogenesis in both preclinical and clinical studies. Our study suggests that CKI can be a candidate for treatment of hepatic fibrosis and related oncogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Center for Single‐Cell Omics, School of Public HealthShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
- CAS Key Laboratory of Nutrition, Metabolism and Food SafetyShanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
| | - Mayu Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Center for Single‐Cell Omics, School of Public HealthShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
- CAS Key Laboratory of Nutrition, Metabolism and Food SafetyShanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
| | - Weida Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Center for Single‐Cell Omics, School of Public HealthShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Chaobao Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Center for Single‐Cell Omics, School of Public HealthShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Zheshun Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Center for Single‐Cell Omics, School of Public HealthShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Pengfei Gu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Center for Single‐Cell Omics, School of Public HealthShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Jingquan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Center for Single‐Cell Omics, School of Public HealthShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Wei Wang
- Beijing Zhendong Pharmaceutical Research Institute Co., Ltd.BeijingChina
| | - Rongli You
- Beijing Zhendong Pharmaceutical Research Institute Co., Ltd.BeijingChina
| | - Qian Ba
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Center for Single‐Cell Omics, School of Public HealthShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Xiaoguang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Center for Single‐Cell Omics, School of Public HealthShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Hui Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Center for Single‐Cell Omics, School of Public HealthShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
- CAS Key Laboratory of Nutrition, Metabolism and Food SafetyShanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
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11
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The TGF-β Pathway: A Pharmacological Target in Hepatocellular Carcinoma? Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13133248. [PMID: 34209646 PMCID: PMC8268320 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13133248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Revised: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Transforming Growth Factor-beta (TGF-β) superfamily members are essential for tissue homeostasis and consequently, dysregulation of their signaling pathways contributes to the development of human diseases. In the liver, TGF-β signaling participates in all the stages of disease progression from initial liver injury to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). During liver carcinogenesis, TGF-β plays a dual role on the malignant cell, behaving as a suppressor factor at early stages, but contributing to later tumor progression once cells escape from its cytostatic effects. Moreover, TGF-β can modulate the response of the cells forming the tumor microenvironment that may also contribute to HCC progression, and drive immune evasion of cancer cells. Thus, targeting the TGF-β pathway may constitute an effective therapeutic option for HCC treatment. However, it is crucial to identify biomarkers that allow to predict the response of the tumors and appropriately select the patients that could benefit from TGF-β inhibitory therapies. Here we review the functions of TGF-β on HCC malignant and tumor microenvironment cells, and the current strategies targeting TGF-β signaling for cancer therapy. We also summarize the clinical impact of TGF-β inhibitors in HCC patients and provide a perspective on its future use alone or in combinatorial strategies for HCC treatment.
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12
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Seitz T, Hellerbrand C. Role of fibroblast growth factor signalling in hepatic fibrosis. Liver Int 2021; 41:1201-1215. [PMID: 33655624 DOI: 10.1111/liv.14863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Revised: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Fibrotic remodelling is a highly conserved protective response to tissue injury and it is essential for the maintenance of structural and functional tissue integrity. Also hepatic fibrosis can be considered as a wound-healing response to liver injury, reflecting a balance between liver repair and scar formation. In contrast, pathological fibrosis corresponds to impaired wound healing. Usually, the liver regenerates after acute injury. However, if the damaging mechanisms persist, the liver reacts with progressive and uncontrolled accumulation of extracellular matrix proteins. Eventually, excessive fibrosis can lead to cirrhosis and hepatic failure. Furthermore, cirrhosis is the major risk factor for the development of hepatocellular cancer (HCC). Therefore, hepatic fibrosis is the most critical pathological factor that determines the morbidity and mortality of patients with chronic liver disease. Still, no effective anti-fibrogenic therapies exist, despite the very high medical need. The regulation of fibroblast growth factor (FGF) signalling is a prerequisite for adequate wound healing, repair and homeostasis in various tissues and organs. The FGF family comprises 22 proteins that can be classified into paracrine, intracrine and endocrine factors. Most FGFs signal through transmembrane tyrosine kinase FGF receptors (FGFRs). Although FGFRs are promising targets for the treatment of HCC, the expression and function of FGFR-ligands in hepatic fibrosis is still poorly understood. This review summarizes the latest advances in our understanding of FGF signalling in hepatic fibrosis. Furthermore, the potential of FGFs as targets for the treatment of hepatic fibrosis and remaining challenges for the field are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatjana Seitz
- Institute of Biochemistry, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Claus Hellerbrand
- Institute of Biochemistry, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
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13
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Nguyen PT, Kanno K, Pham QT, Kikuchi Y, Kakimoto M, Kobayashi T, Otani Y, Kishikawa N, Miyauchi M, Arihiro K, Ito M, Tazuma S. Senescent hepatic stellate cells caused by deoxycholic acid modulates malignant behavior of hepatocellular carcinoma. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2020; 146:3255-3268. [PMID: 32870388 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-020-03374-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Deoxycholic acid (DCA), a secondary bile acid, is reportedly increased in the serum of patients with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis and animals with experimentally induced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but its contribution to malignant behaviors of HCC has not been precisely clarified. This study aimed to examine the effect of DCA on hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), a major component of nonparenchymal cells in the liver, and its subsequent indirect effect on HCC cells. METHODS LX2 cells, a human HSC line, were treated with DCA in vitro. Then, HuH7 cells, a human hepatoma cell line, were incubated in conditioned media of DCA-treated LX2 to investigate the subsequent effect focusing on malignant behaviors. RESULTS DCA resulted in cellular senescence in LX2 with the decreased cell proliferation via cell cycle arrest at G0/1 phase, together with the induction of senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) factors. To investigate the influence of SASP factors secreted by HSCs in response to DCA, HCC cells were treated with conditioned media that promoted cell migration and invasion via induction of epithelial mesenchymal transition. These changes were attenuated in the presence of neutralizing antibody against IL8 or TGFβ. Pathological analysis of surgical specimens from HCC patients revealed that senescent HSCs were detected in the stroma surrounding HCC. CONCLUSION Our data suggest an important role of HSC senescence caused by DCA for the malignant biological behaviors of HCC via induction of SASP factors, particularly IL8 and TGFβ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phuong Thao Nguyen
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Hiroshima University Hospital, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima, 734-8551, Japan
| | - Keishi Kanno
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Hiroshima University Hospital, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima, 734-8551, Japan.
| | - Quoc Thang Pham
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Hiroshima University Hospital, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima, 734-8551, Japan
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Hiroshima University Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima, Japan
- Department of Pathology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam
| | - Yuka Kikuchi
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Hiroshima University Hospital, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima, 734-8551, Japan
| | - Masaki Kakimoto
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Hiroshima University Hospital, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima, 734-8551, Japan
| | - Tomoki Kobayashi
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Hiroshima University Hospital, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima, 734-8551, Japan
| | - Yuichiro Otani
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Hiroshima University Hospital, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima, 734-8551, Japan
| | - Nobusuke Kishikawa
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Hiroshima University Hospital, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima, 734-8551, Japan
| | - Mutsumi Miyauchi
- Department of Oral Maxillo-Pathobiology, Hiroshima University Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Koji Arihiro
- Department of Pathology, Hiroshima University Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Masanori Ito
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Hiroshima University Hospital, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima, 734-8551, Japan
| | - Susumu Tazuma
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Hiroshima University Hospital, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima, 734-8551, Japan
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14
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Cacicedo ML, Medina-Montano C, Kaps L, Kappel C, Gehring S, Bros M. Role of Liver-Mediated Tolerance in Nanoparticle-Based Tumor Therapy. Cells 2020; 9:E1985. [PMID: 32872352 PMCID: PMC7563539 DOI: 10.3390/cells9091985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Revised: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In the last decades, the use of nanocarriers for immunotherapeutic purposes has gained a lot of attention, especially in the field of tumor therapy. However, most types of nanocarriers accumulate strongly in the liver after systemic application. Due to the default tolerance-promoting role of liver non-parenchymal cells (NPCs), Kupffer cells (KCs), liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs), and hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), their potential role on the immunological outcome of systemic nano-vaccination approaches for therapy of tumors in the liver and in other organs needs to be considered. Concerning immunological functions, KCs have been the focus until now, but recent studies have elucidated an important role of LSECs and HSCs as well. Therefore, this review aims to summarize current knowledge on the employment of nanocarriers for immunotherapeutic therapy of liver diseases and the overall role of liver NPCs in the context of nano-vaccination approaches. With regard to the latter, we discuss strategies on how to address liver NPCs, aiming to exploit and modulate their immunological properties, and alternatively how to avoid unwanted engagement of nano-vaccines by liver NPCs for tumor therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maximiliano L. Cacicedo
- Children’s Hospital, University Medical Center, Langenbeckstrasse 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany; (M.L.C.); (S.G.)
| | - Carolina Medina-Montano
- Department of Dermatology, University Medical Center Mainz, Langenbeckstrasse 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany; (C.M.-M.); (C.K.)
| | - Leonard Kaps
- Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Mainz, I. Langenbeckstrasse 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany;
| | - Cinja Kappel
- Department of Dermatology, University Medical Center Mainz, Langenbeckstrasse 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany; (C.M.-M.); (C.K.)
| | - Stephan Gehring
- Children’s Hospital, University Medical Center, Langenbeckstrasse 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany; (M.L.C.); (S.G.)
| | - Matthias Bros
- Department of Dermatology, University Medical Center Mainz, Langenbeckstrasse 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany; (C.M.-M.); (C.K.)
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15
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Abstract
Chronic liver injury due to viral hepatitis, alcohol abuse, and metabolic disorders is a worldwide health concern. Insufficient treatment of chronic liver injury leads to fibrosis, causing liver dysfunction and carcinogenesis. Most cases of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) develop in the fibrotic liver. Pathological features of liver fibrosis include extracellular matrix (ECM) accumulation, mesenchymal cell activation, immune deregulation, and angiogenesis, all of which contribute to the precancerous environment, supporting tumor development. Among liver cells, hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and macrophages play critical roles in fibrosis and HCC. These two cell types interplay and remodel the ECM and immune microenvironment in the fibrotic liver. Once HCC develops, HCC-derived factors influence HSCs and macrophages to switch to protumorigenic cell populations, cancer-associated fibroblasts and tumor-associated macrophages, respectively. This review aims to summarize currently available data on the roles of HSCs and macrophages in liver fibrosis and HCC, with a focus on their interaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michitaka Matsuda
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
| | - Ekihiro Seki
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
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16
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Roife D, Sarcar B, Fleming JB. Stellate Cells in the Tumor Microenvironment. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2020; 1263:67-84. [PMID: 32588324 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-44518-8_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
As tumor microenvironments share many of the same qualities as chronic wounds, attention is turning to the wound-repair cells that support the growth of cancerous cells. Stellate cells are star-shaped cells that were first discovered in the perisinusoidal spaces in the liver and have been found to support wound healing by the secretion of growth factors and extracellular matrix. They have since been also found to serve a similar function in the pancreas. In both organs, the wound-healing process may become dysregulated and lead to pathological fibrosis (also known as cirrhosis in the liver). In recent years there has been increasing attention paid to the role of these cells in tumor formation and progression. They may be a factor in initiating the first steps of carcinogenesis such as with liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma and also contribute to continued tumor growth, invasion, metastasis, evasion of the immune system, and resistance to chemotherapy, in cancers of both the liver and pancreas. In this chapter we aim to review the structure and function of hepatic and pancreatic stellate cells and their contributions to the tumor microenvironment in their respective cancers and also discuss potential new targets for cancer therapy based on our new understanding of these vital components of the tumor stroma.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Roife
- Department of Surgery, University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine, Tampa, FL, USA.,Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Bhaswati Sarcar
- Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Jason B Fleming
- Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, USA.
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17
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Yang F, Wei Y, Han D, Li Y, Shi S, Jiao D, Wu J, Zhang Q, Shi C, Yang L, Song W, Zhang J, Han Y, Zhang R, Yang AG, Dimitrov DS, Zhao A, Qin W, Wen W. Interaction with CD68 and Regulation of GAS6 Expression by Endosialin in Fibroblasts Drives Recruitment and Polarization of Macrophages in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cancer Res 2020; 80:3892-3905. [PMID: 32591411 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-19-2691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2019] [Revised: 02/16/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Fibroblasts and macrophages play key roles in the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, cross-talk between these two kinds of cells has not been well studied. Endosialin (CD248/TEM1) is a transmembrane glycoprotein that is expressed in certain cancer cells, tumor stromal cells, and pericytes. In this study, we found that endosialin is mainly expressed in cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF) in HCC and its expression inversely correlates with patient prognosis. Endosialin interacted with CD68 to recruit macrophages and regulated expression of GAS6 in CAFs to mediate M2 polarization of macrophages. The fully human antibody IgG78 bound glycosylated endosialin and induced its internalization in CAFs, thus weakening the cross-talk between CAFs and macrophages. In subcutaneous and orthotopic xenograft models of HCC in nude mice, treatment with IgG78 significantly inhibited tumor growth. These results indicate that endosialin-positive CAFs promote HCC progression and highlight IgG78 as a promising therapeutic candidate for HCC treatment. SIGNIFICANCE: These findings highlight CAF-expressed endosialin as a primary regulator of macrophage recruitment and polarization and demonstrate endosialin inhibition as a potential treatment strategy for HCC. GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT: http://cancerres.aacrjournals.org/content/canres/80/18/3892/F1.large.jpg.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fa Yang
- Department of Urology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yan Wei
- Department of Radiation and Medical Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Donghui Han
- Department of Urology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yu Li
- Department of Urology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Shengjia Shi
- Department of Urology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Dian Jiao
- Department of Urology, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jieheng Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Department of Immunology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Qiang Zhang
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Changhong Shi
- Laboratory Animal Center, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Lijun Yang
- Department of Urology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Wei Song
- Department of Urology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jingliang Zhang
- Department of Urology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | | | - Rui Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Department of Immunology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - An-Gang Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Department of Immunology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Dimiter S Dimitrov
- Center for Antibody Therapeutics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | | | - Weijun Qin
- Department of Urology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China.
| | - Weihong Wen
- Institute of Medical Research, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, China.
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18
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Ruan Q, Wang H, Burke LJ, Bridle KR, Li X, Zhao CX, Crawford DHG, Roberts MS, Liang X. Therapeutic modulators of hepatic stellate cells for hepatocellular carcinoma. Int J Cancer 2020; 147:1519-1527. [PMID: 32010970 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.32899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2019] [Revised: 01/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of primary tumor in the liver and is a leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are key components of the HCC microenvironment and play an important role in the onset and progression of HCC through the secretion of growth factors and cytokines. Current treatment modalities that include chemotherapy, radiotherapy and ablation are able to activate HSCs and remodel the tumor microenvironment. Growing evidence has demonstrated that the complex interaction between activated HSCs and tumor cells can facilitate cancer chemoresistance and metastasis. Therefore, therapeutic targeting of activated HSCs has emerged as a promising strategy to improve treatment outcomes for HCC. This review summarizes the molecular mechanisms of HSC activation triggered by treatment modalities, the function of activated HSCs in HCC, as well as the crosstalk between tumor cells and activated HSCs. Pathways of activated HSC reduction are discussed, including inhibition, apoptosis, and reversion to the inactivated state. Finally, we outline the progress and challenges of therapeutic approaches targeting activated HSCs in the development of HCC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Ruan
- The University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, QLD, Australia
| | - Haolu Wang
- The University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, QLD, Australia.,Gallipoli Medical Research Institute, Greenslopes Private Hospital, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Leslie J Burke
- The University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, QLD, Australia.,Gallipoli Medical Research Institute, Greenslopes Private Hospital, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Kim R Bridle
- Gallipoli Medical Research Institute, Greenslopes Private Hospital, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Xinxing Li
- Department of General Surgery, Changzheng Hospital, The Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chun-Xia Zhao
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Darrell H G Crawford
- Gallipoli Medical Research Institute, Greenslopes Private Hospital, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Michael S Roberts
- The University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, QLD, Australia
| | - Xiaowen Liang
- The University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, QLD, Australia.,Gallipoli Medical Research Institute, Greenslopes Private Hospital, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
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19
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Das D, Fayazzadeh E, Li X, Koirala N, Wadera A, Lang M, Zernic M, Panick C, Nesbitt P, McLennan G. Quiescent hepatic stellate cells induce toxicity and sensitivity to doxorubicin in cancer cells through a caspase-independent cell death pathway: Central role of apoptosis-inducing factor. J Cell Physiol 2020; 235:6167-6182. [PMID: 31975386 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.29545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2018] [Accepted: 01/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major health problem worldwide and in the United States as its incidence has increased substantially within the past two decades. HCC therapy remains a challenge, primarily due to underlying liver disorders such as cirrhosis that determines treatment approach and efficacy. Activated hepatic stellate cells (A-HSCs) are the key cell types involved in hepatic fibrosis/cirrhosis. A-HSCs are important constituents of HCC tumor microenvironment (TME) and support tumor growth, chemotherapy resistance, cancer cell migration, and escaping immune surveillance. This makes A-HSCs an important therapeutic target in hepatic fibrosis/cirrhosis as well as in HCC. Although many studies have reported the role of A-HSCs in cancer generation and investigated the therapeutic potential of A-HSCs reversion in cancer arrest, not much is known about inactivated or quiescent HSCs (Q-HSCs) in cancer growth or arrest. Here we report that Q-HSCs resist cancer cell growth by inducing cytotoxicity and enhancing chemotherapy sensitivity. We observed that the conditioned media from Q-HSCs (Q-HSCCM) induces cancer cell death through a caspase-independent mechanism that involves an increase in apoptosis-inducing factor expression, nuclear localization, DNA fragmentation, and cell death. We further observed that Q-HSCCM enhanced the efficiency of doxorubicin, as measured by cell viability assay. Exosomes present in the conditioned media were not involved in the mechanism, which suggests the role of other factors (proteins, metabolites, or microRNA) secreted by the cells. Identification and characterization of these factors are important in the development of effective HCC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dola Das
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Ehsan Fayazzadeh
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio.,Section of Vascular and Interventional Radiology, Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Imaging Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Xin Li
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio.,Department of Radiology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Nischal Koirala
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio.,Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Akshay Wadera
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio.,School of Medicine, New York Medical College, Valhalla, New York
| | - Min Lang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio.,Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Maximilian Zernic
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Catherine Panick
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio.,Dotter Department of Interventional Radiology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - Pete Nesbitt
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Erie, Pennsylvania
| | - Gordon McLennan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio.,Section of Vascular and Interventional Radiology, Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Imaging Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
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20
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Shiraha H, Iwamuro M, Okada H. Hepatic Stellate Cells in Liver Tumor. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2020; 1234:43-56. [PMID: 32040854 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-37184-5_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma are the most common types of primary liver cancers. Moreover, the liver is the second most frequently involved organ in cancer metastasis after lymph nodes. The tumor microenvironment is crucial for the development of both primary and secondary liver cancers. The hepatic microenvironment consists of multiple cell types, including liver sinusoidal endothelial cells, Kupffer cells, natural killer cells, liver-associated lymphocytes, and hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). The microenvironment of a normal liver changes to a tumor microenvironment when tumor cells exist or tumor cells migrate to and multiply in the liver. Interactions between tumor cells and non-transformed cells generate a tumor microenvironment that contributes significantly to tumor progression. HSCs play a central role in the tumor microenvironment crosstalk. As this crosstalk is crucial for liver carcinogenesis and liver-tumor development, elucidating the mechanism underlying the interaction of HSCs with the tumor microenvironment could provide potential therapeutic targets for liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hidenori Shiraha
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Okayama University Faculty of Medicine, Okayama, Japan.
| | - Masaya Iwamuro
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Okayama University Faculty of Medicine, Okayama, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Okada
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Okayama University Faculty of Medicine, Okayama, Japan
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21
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Sharma S, Mehak, Chhimwal J, Patial V, Sk UH. Dendrimer-conjugated podophyllotoxin suppresses DENA-induced HCC progression by modulation of inflammatory and fibrogenic factors. Toxicol Res (Camb) 2019; 8:560-567. [PMID: 31367338 PMCID: PMC6621132 DOI: 10.1039/c9tx00103d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2019] [Accepted: 05/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Podophyllotoxin has been explored as an anticancer, antiviral, and antibacterial agent; however, its low water solubility and toxicity limit its use. In this study, the efficacy of a more soluble and less toxic polyamidoamine (PAMAM) dendrimer-conjugated podophyllotoxin (DPODO) was evaluated against chemically induced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in mice. HCC was induced by giving 0.01% diethylnitrosamine (DENA) in drinking water for 16 weeks. The HCC-induced mice were treated with 10 or 20 mg per kg body weight DPODO. The DENA administration led to HCC development, characterized by anisocytosis, karyomegaly, inflammation and degenerative changes in the liver. The DPODO treatment at 10 mg and 20 mg doses significantly reduced the histopathological changes in liver tissue. The DPODO treatment also significantly lowered the levels of inflammatory markers IL-6 and NF-κB in serum and tissue, respectively. Further, the treatment also significantly reduced fibrous tissue deposition in the liver, which was further confirmed by the reduced mRNA levels and tissue expression of fibrogenic markers TGF-β and α-SMA in the liver. The results of the present study indicate that DPODO treatment suppresses the progression of HCC by modulating the inflammatory and fibrogenic factors, which play important roles in HCC development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Supriya Sharma
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Laboratory , Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology , Palampur , H.P. , India . ;
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research , Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology , Palampur , H.P. , India
| | - Mehak
- Natural Products Chemistry and Process Development Division , Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology , Palampur , H.P. , India
| | - Jyoti Chhimwal
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Laboratory , Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology , Palampur , H.P. , India . ;
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research , Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology , Palampur , H.P. , India
| | - Vikram Patial
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Laboratory , Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology , Palampur , H.P. , India . ;
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research , Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology , Palampur , H.P. , India
| | - Ugir Hossain Sk
- Natural Products Chemistry and Process Development Division , Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology , Palampur , H.P. , India
- Clinical and Translational Research , Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute , Kolkata 700026 , India .
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LXRα limits TGFβ-dependent hepatocellular carcinoma associated fibroblast differentiation. Oncogenesis 2019; 8:36. [PMID: 31097694 PMCID: PMC6522550 DOI: 10.1038/s41389-019-0140-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2018] [Revised: 03/14/2019] [Accepted: 04/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) is deposited in the extracellular space of diverse tissues. Resident fibroblasts respond to TGFβ and undergo myofibroblastic differentiation during tissue wound healing and cancer progression. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) communicate with tumor cells during cancer progression, under the guidance of TGFβ signaling. We report that agonist-activated liver X receptors (LXR) limit the expression of key components of myofibroblast differentiation, including the α-smooth muscle actin (αSMA) gene in liver cancer cells. CAFs derived from hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) express high αSMA and low LXRα levels, whereas hepatocarcinoma cells exhibit an inverse expression pattern. All hepatoma cells analyzed responded to the LXRα agonist T0901317 by inducing fatty acid synthase (FASN) expression. On the other hand, T0901317 antagonized TGFβ-induced fibroblastic marker responses, such as fibronectin and calponin, in a subset of hepatoma cells and all CAFs analyzed. Mechanistically, LXRα antagonized TGFβ signaling at the transcriptional level. Smad3 and LXRα were recruited to adjacent DNA motifs of the ACTA2 promoter. Upon cloning the human ACTA2 promoter, we confirmed its transcriptional induction by TGFβ stimulation, and LXRα overexpression repressed the promoter activity. Hepatosphere formation by HCC cells was enhanced upon co-culturing with CAFs. T0901317 suppressed the positive effects exerted on hepatosphere growth by CAFs. Taken together, the data suggest that LXRα agonists limit TGFβ-dependent CAF differentiation, potentially limiting primary HCC growth.
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The Role of Fibrosis and Liver-Associated Fibroblasts in the Pathogenesis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Int J Mol Sci 2019. [PMID: 30959975 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20071723.] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most aggressive types of cancer and lacks effective therapeutic approaches. Most HCC develops in the setting of chronic liver injury, hepatic inflammation, and fibrosis. Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are key players in liver fibrogenesis and hepatocarcinogenesis, respectively. CAFs, which probably derive from HSCs, activate into extracellular matrix (ECM)-producing myofibroblasts and crosstalk with cancer cells to affect tumor growth and invasion. In this review, we describe the different components which form the HCC premalignant microenvironment (PME) and the tumor microenvironment (TME), focusing on the liver fibrosis process and the biology of CAFs. We will describe the CAF-dependent mechanisms which have been suggested to promote hepatocarcinogenesis, such as the alteration of ECM, CAF-dependent production of cytokines and angiogenic factors, CAF-dependent reduction of immuno-surveillance, and CAF-dependent promotion of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). New knowledge of the fibrosis process and the role of CAFs in HCC may pave the way for new therapeutic strategies for liver cancer.
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Baglieri J, Brenner DA, Kisseleva T. The Role of Fibrosis and Liver-Associated Fibroblasts in the Pathogenesis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20071723. [PMID: 30959975 PMCID: PMC6479943 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20071723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 181] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2019] [Revised: 03/29/2019] [Accepted: 04/05/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most aggressive types of cancer and lacks effective therapeutic approaches. Most HCC develops in the setting of chronic liver injury, hepatic inflammation, and fibrosis. Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are key players in liver fibrogenesis and hepatocarcinogenesis, respectively. CAFs, which probably derive from HSCs, activate into extracellular matrix (ECM)-producing myofibroblasts and crosstalk with cancer cells to affect tumor growth and invasion. In this review, we describe the different components which form the HCC premalignant microenvironment (PME) and the tumor microenvironment (TME), focusing on the liver fibrosis process and the biology of CAFs. We will describe the CAF-dependent mechanisms which have been suggested to promote hepatocarcinogenesis, such as the alteration of ECM, CAF-dependent production of cytokines and angiogenic factors, CAF-dependent reduction of immuno-surveillance, and CAF-dependent promotion of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). New knowledge of the fibrosis process and the role of CAFs in HCC may pave the way for new therapeutic strategies for liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacopo Baglieri
- Department of Medicine, UC San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA.
| | - David A Brenner
- Department of Medicine, UC San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA.
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Zhang R, Lin XH, Ma M, Chen J, Chen J, Gao DM, Cui JF, Chen RX. Periostin involved in the activated hepatic stellate cells-induced progression of residual hepatocellular carcinoma after sublethal heat treatment: its role and potential for therapeutic inhibition. J Transl Med 2018; 16:302. [PMID: 30400797 PMCID: PMC6219107 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-018-1676-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2018] [Accepted: 10/27/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Incomplete thermal ablation may induce invasiveness of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Here, we investigated whether activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) would accelerate the progression of residual HCC after sublethal heat treatment, and thus sought to identify the potential targets. METHODS Hepatocellular carcinoma cells were exposed to sublethal heat treatment and then cultured with the conditioned medium from activated HSCs (HSC-CM). The cell proliferation, migration, invasion and parameters of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) were analyzed. In vivo tumor progression of heat-treated residual HCC cells inoculated with activated HSCs was studied in nude mice. RESULTS HSC-CM significantly enhanced the proliferation, motility, invasion, prominent EMT activation and decreased apoptosis of heat-exposed residual HCC cells. These increased malignant phenotypes were markedly attenuated by neutralizing periostin (POSTN) in HSC-CM. Furthermore, exogenous POSTN administration exerted the similar effects of HSC-CM on heat-treated residual HCC cells. POSTN induced the prominent activation of p52Shc and ERK1/2 via integrin β1 in heat-exposed residual HCC cells. Vitamin D analog calcipotriol blocked POSTN secretion from activated HSCs. Calcipotriol plus cisplatin significantly suppressed the activated HSCs-enhanced tumor progression of heat-treated residual HCC cells via the inhibited POSTN expression and the increased apoptosis. CONCLUSIONS Activated HSCs promote the tumor progression of heat-treated residual HCC through the release of POSTN, which could be inhibited by calcipotriol. Calcipotriol plus cisplatin could be used to thwart the accelerated progression of residual HCC after suboptimal heat treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Zhang
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University and Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education, Shanghai, China
| | - Xia-Hui Lin
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University and Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education, Shanghai, China
| | - Min Ma
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University and Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education, Shanghai, China
| | - Jie Chen
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University and Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education, Shanghai, China
| | - Jun Chen
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University and Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education, Shanghai, China
| | - Dong-Mei Gao
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University and Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education, Shanghai, China
| | - Jie-Feng Cui
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University and Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education, Shanghai, China
| | - Rong-Xin Chen
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University and Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education, Shanghai, China.
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Wu C, Kan H, Hu M, Liu X, Boye A, Jiang Y, Wu J, Wang J, Yang X, Yang Y. Compound Astragalus and Salvia miltiorrhiza extract inhibits hepatocarcinogenesis via modulating TGF-β/TβR and Imp7/8. Exp Ther Med 2018; 16:1052-1060. [PMID: 30112050 PMCID: PMC6090435 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2018.6292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2015] [Accepted: 05/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Compound Astragalus and Salvia miltiorrhiza extract (CASE) is a Chinese herbal formula consisting of astragalosides, astragalus polysaccharide and salvianolic acids extracted from Astragalus membranaceus and Salvia miltiorhiza. Previous studies by our group have demonstrated that CASE effectively suppresses diethylinitrosamine (DEN)-induced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in rats via modulating transforming growth factor β/Mothers against decapentaplegic (TGFβ/Smad) signaling. To further elucidate the mechanism of CASE, the effects of CASE on TGF-β1, the serine/threonine kinase receptors of TGF-β [TGF-β receptor type-I (TβRI) and TβRII] and karyopherins [Importin 7 (Imp7) and Imp8], which are crucial for TGF-β/Smad signaling in fibro-hepatocarcinogenesis, were assessed in the present study using in vivo (DEN-induced HCC in rats) and in vitro [TGF-β1-stimulated rat myofibroblasts (MFBs) and HepG2 cells] models of fibro-hepatocarcinogenesis. Hematoxylin and eosin staining revealed that CASE may suppress inflammatory reactions and fibrosis in HCC as well as increasing the differentiation of HCC cells. Positive TGF-β1 staining was increased in HCC nodule areas and in adjacent normal liver tissues in DEN-treated rats, while TβRI staining was increased only in normal adjacent liver tissues. The elevated expression of TGF-β1, TβRI and TβRII was suppressed by CASE. CASE treatment also reduced glutathione S-transferase P 1 and Imp7/8 protein expression in fibro-hepatocarcinogenesis. In vitro experiments confirmed that CASE was able to decrease the expression of TβRI and TβRII in TGF-β1-stimulated MFBs and HepG2 cells. These results indicate that the anti-HCC effect of CASE may be achieved by mediating TGF-β/TβR and Imp7/8 protein expression, suggesting that CASE has multiple targets in HCC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Wu
- Department of Pharmacology and Institute of Natural Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230032, P.R. China
| | - Hongwei Kan
- Department of Pharmacology and Institute of Natural Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230032, P.R. China
| | - Min Hu
- Department of Pathology, Anhui University of Chinese Traditional Medicine, Hefei, Anhui 230038, P.R. China
| | - Xin Liu
- Therapeutics Research Centre, University of Queensland, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland 4102, Australia
| | - Alex Boye
- Department of Pharmacology and Institute of Natural Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230032, P.R. China
| | - Yufeng Jiang
- Department of Pharmacology and Institute of Natural Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230032, P.R. China
| | - Jiajun Wu
- Department of Pharmacology and Institute of Natural Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230032, P.R. China
| | - Jiyu Wang
- Department of Pharmacology and Institute of Natural Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230032, P.R. China
| | - Xiaochuan Yang
- Department of Pharmacology and Institute of Natural Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230032, P.R. China
| | - Yan Yang
- Department of Pharmacology and Institute of Natural Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230032, P.R. China
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SMAD7 polymorphisms and colorectal cancer risk: a meta-analysis of case-control studies. Oncotarget 2018; 7:75561-75570. [PMID: 28070019 PMCID: PMC5342761 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.12285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2016] [Accepted: 09/14/2016] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Mothers against decapentaplegic homolog 7 (SMAD7) inhibits the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling pathway, which regulates carcinogenesis and cancer progression. A number of studies have reported that SMAD7 polymorphisms (rs4464148, rs4939827, and rs12953717) are associated with colorectal cancer (CRC) risk, but the results from these studies remain conflicting. To determine a more precise estimation of the relationship between SMAD7 and CRC, we undertook a large-scale meta-analysis of 63 studies, which included a total of 187,181 subjects (86,585 cases and 100,596 controls). The results of our meta-analysis revealed that the C allele of rs4464148 [CC vs. TT+TC, odds ratio (OR) =1.23, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.14–1.33, P < 0.01], the T allele of rs4939827 [TT vs. CC+TC, odds ratio OR=1.15, 95%CI:1.07–1.22, P < 0.01] and the T allele of rs12953717 [TT vs. CC+TC, OR =1.22, 95%CI:1.16–1.29, P < 0.01] were all associated with the increased CRC risk. Subgroup analysis according to ethnicity showed rs4464148 and rs12953717 were associated with the risk of CRC in both Caucasians and Asians, whereas rs4939827 was a risk polymorphism for CRC specifically in Caucasians. In summary, this large-scale meta-analysis indicated that SMAD7 polymorphisms (rs4464148, rs4939827, and rs12953717) correlate with CRC.
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28
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Li ZQ, Wu WR, Zhao C, Zhao C, Zhang XL, Yang Z, Pan J, Si WK. CCN1/Cyr61 enhances the function of hepatic stellate cells in promoting the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma. Int J Mol Med 2017; 41:1518-1528. [PMID: 29286082 PMCID: PMC5819939 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2017.3356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2017] [Accepted: 11/28/2017] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are the main extracellular matrix (ECM)-producing cells in liver fibrosis. Activated HSCs stimulate the proliferation and migration of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells. Cysteine-rich 61 (CCN1/Cyr61) is an ECM protein. Our previous studies demonstrated that the expression of CCN1 was significantly higher in benign hepatic cirrhosis tissue and cancer-adjacent hepatic cirrhosis tissues. CCN1 is a target gene of β-catenin in HCC and promotes the proliferation of HCC cells. The present study aimed to examine whether CCN1 can activate HSCs and affect the function of activated HSCs in promoting the progression of HCC. CCN1 expression was determined during the progression of liver fibrosis in a mouse model. LX-2 cells, which were infected with adenoviruses AdCCN1 or AdRFP, and HepG2 cells were co-cultured or subcutaneously co-implanted into in nude mice. MTT assay, Crystal Violet staining, Boyden chamber, matrigel invasion and monolayer scratch assays were used to analyze the proliferation, migration and invasion capability of HepG2 cells. Xenograft sizes were measured and histological analyses were performed by hematoxylin and eosin, immunohistochemical, immunefluorescence and Sirius Red staining. It was demonstrated that the expression of CCN1 was continually increased in liver fibrosis and the that expression may be correlated with the progression of liver fibrosis. CCN1 affected the function of LX-2 and enhanced the effect of LX-2 on promoting the viability, migration and invasion of HepG2 cells in vitro. CCN1 enhanced the effect of LX-2 on promoting the growth of HepG2 xenografts in vivo. CCN1 also affected the function of activated HSCs and regulated the formation of the xenograft microenvironment, including fibrogenesis and angiogenesis, which are beneficial for the progression of HCC. These findings demonstrated that CCN1 may be involved in the progression of the hepatic cirrhosis-HCC axis through regulating HSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi-Qiang Li
- Department of Clinical Hematology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing 400038, P.R. China
| | - Wei-Ru Wu
- Department of Clinical Hematology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing 400038, P.R. China
| | - Chen Zhao
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400042, P.R. China
| | - Chen Zhao
- Department of Clinical Hematology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing 400038, P.R. China
| | - Xiao-Li Zhang
- Department of Clinical Hematology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing 400038, P.R. China
| | - Zhong Yang
- Department of Clinical Hematology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing 400038, P.R. China
| | - Jing Pan
- Department of Clinical Hematology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing 400038, P.R. China
| | - Wei-Ke Si
- Department of Clinical Hematology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing 400038, P.R. China
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29
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Xu ZC, Shen HX, Chen C, Ma L, Li WZ, Wang L, Geng ZM. Neuropilin-1 promotes primary liver cancer progression by potentiating the activity of hepatic stellate cells. Oncol Lett 2017; 15:2245-2251. [PMID: 29434931 PMCID: PMC5777127 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2017.7541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2015] [Accepted: 07/20/2017] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
As a co-receptor for a variety of cytokines, neuropilin-1 (NRP-1) is detectable in primary liver cancer (PLC) cells. Previous studies determined that silencing of NRP-1 expression attenuated the proliferation, migration and invasion of PLC cells. An increasing number of studies have highlighted the crucial role of the tumor microenvironment in the pathogenesis of cancer. Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are one of the major interstitial cell types present in the liver tumor microenvironment, and can promote the proliferation, migration and invasion of PLC cells. It remains unknown whether NRP-1 can promote PLC progression by potentiating the activity of HSCs. In the present study, the expression of NRP-1, and its co-expression with platelet-derived growth factor receptor-β, in HSCs was detected via immunofluorescence. LX2 HSCs were transfected with NRP-1 short hairpin RNA lentiviral vectors and their proliferation was observed. The proliferation, migration and invasion of HepG2 cells co-cultured with LX2 cells were also observed. Finally, LX2 and HepG2 cells were co-injected into nude mice as subcutaneous xenografts, and the tumor growth and α-smooth muscle actin expression levels were observed. NRP-1 knockdown attenuated LX2 cell activation, with concomitant downregulation of HepG2 cell proliferation, migration and invasion (P<0.05). Thus, silencing of NRP-1 expression may inhibit the activation of HSCs, as well as the proliferation, migration and invasion of PLC cells. The mechanism underlying the inhibition of PLC cell progression is possibly mediated by the inhibition of HSC activation, reduction of transforming growth factor-β1 levels in the conditioned medium and downregulation of extracellular signal-related kinase activity in PLC cells. Thus, NRP-1 could be regarded as a potential gene therapy target for PLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi-Chao Xu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, P.R. China
| | - Hao-Xin Shen
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, P.R. China
| | - Chen Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, P.R. China
| | - Li Ma
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, P.R. China
| | - Wen-Zhi Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, P.R. China
| | - Lin Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, P.R. China
| | - Zhi-Min Geng
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, P.R. China
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Xie YX, Liao R, Pan L, Du CY. ERK pathway activation contributes to the tumor-promoting effects of hepatic stellate cells in hepatocellular carcinoma. Immunol Lett 2017; 188:116-123. [PMID: 28668554 DOI: 10.1016/j.imlet.2017.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2017] [Revised: 06/05/2017] [Accepted: 06/26/2017] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Activated hepatic stellate cell (aHSC) play a critical role in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) progression crosstalking with cancer cell via various signaling pathways. The aim of our study is to explore the tumor-promoting effects of aHSCs on HCC via ERK pathway. METHODS α-SMA, p-ERK and p-JNK expression levels in tumoral and peritumoral tissues of HCC were assessed by immunohistochemical and western blotting. The protein and mRNA expression levels in human hepatoma cell treated with aHSC conditioned medium (CM) were determined by western blotting and real-time quantitative PCR, respectively. Cell migration and invasion abilities were assessed using transwell assays. The proliferation ability of HCC cells induced by aHSCs-CM was detected by CCK-8 assay and cell cycle analysis. RESULTS We found that aHSC number was positively correlated with p-ERK expression levels in tumoral tissues and aHSC-CM could time-dependently promote PCNA, p-ERK expression in HCC cells. Moreover, aHSC-CM enhanced HCC cells proliferation via ERK. Additionally, aHSC upregulated c-jun and cyclinD1 expression levels, accelerating the transition from G1 to the S phase of HCC cells, and this effect could be arrested by inhibiting ERK pathway. Furthermore, aHSC-CM promoted migration and invasion of HCC cells via ERK. Epithelial-mesenchymal transitions (EMT) phenomenon could be reversed by ERK suppression. CONCLUSION High expression of p-ERK and aHSCs may be associated with the aggressive behavior of HCC cells. Secretions from aHSCs could promote proliferation and EMT of HCC cells via ERK1/2/c-jun/cyclinD1 axis or ERK pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Xiao Xie
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Rui Liao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Long Pan
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Cheng-You Du
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China.
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miR-200c Accelerates Hepatic Stellate Cell-Induced Liver Fibrosis via Targeting the FOG2/PI3K Pathway. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2017; 2017:2670658. [PMID: 28691020 PMCID: PMC5485280 DOI: 10.1155/2017/2670658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2017] [Accepted: 03/21/2017] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although expression of miR-200s is aberrant in liver fibrosis, its role in liver fibrogenesis still remains unknown. Here, we investigated the role of miR-200c in the activation of human hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and induction of liver fibrosis. METHODS We engineered human HSCs (LX2 cell line) to stably express miR-200c (LX2-200c) or empty vector control (LX2-nc). RESULTS miR-200c expression upregulated α-smooth muscle actin (SMA) and vimentin, enhanced HSCs growth and migration, increased expression of collagen type I (a main component of ECM) gene and secretion of epidermal growth factor (EGF), and upregulated the phosphorylation of Akt, a downstream effector of the PI3K pathway. As a target of miR-200s and inhibitor of PI3K pathway, FOG2 protein expression was significantly suppressed in LX2-200c cells. Moreover, LY294002, a highly selective inhibitor of PI3K, blocked phosphorylation of Akt and the effects of miR-200c. CONCLUSIONS These data suggest that miR-200c activates HSCs in liver fibrosis possibly by downregulating FOG2 protein expression and upregulating PI3K/Akt signaling. Autocrine activation of EGF signaling may also be a mechanism of miR-200c-mediated HSCs activation. So miR-200c can be a potential marker for HSCs activation and liver fibrosis progression, as well as a potential target to attenuate liver fibrosis.
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Affo S, Yu LX, Schwabe RF. The Role of Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts and Fibrosis in Liver Cancer. ANNUAL REVIEW OF PATHOLOGY-MECHANISMS OF DISEASE 2016; 12:153-186. [PMID: 27959632 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-pathol-052016-100322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 429] [Impact Index Per Article: 53.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Liver cancer is the second leading cause of cancer mortality worldwide, causing more than 700,000 deaths annually. Because of the wide landscape of genomic alterations and limited therapeutic success of targeting tumor cells, a recent focus has been on better understanding and possibly targeting the microenvironment in which liver tumors develop. A unique feature of liver cancer is its close association with liver fibrosis. More than 80% of hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs) develop in fibrotic or cirrhotic livers, suggesting an important role of liver fibrosis in the premalignant environment (PME) of the liver. Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), in contrast, is characterized by a strong desmoplasia that typically occurs in response to the tumor, suggesting a key role of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and fibrosis in its tumor microenvironment (TME). Here, we discuss the functional contributions of myofibroblasts, CAFs, and fibrosis to the development of HCC and CCA in the hepatic PME and TME, focusing on myofibroblast- and extracellular matrix-associated growth factors, fibrosis-associated immunosuppressive pathways, as well as mechanosensitive signaling cascades that are activated by increased tissue stiffness. Better understanding of the role of myofibroblasts in HCC and CCA development and progression may provide the basis to target these cells for tumor prevention or therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Affo
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032;
| | - Le-Xing Yu
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032;
| | - Robert F Schwabe
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032;
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Cabillic F, Corlu A. Regulation of Transdifferentiation and Retrodifferentiation by Inflammatory Cytokines in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Gastroenterology 2016; 151:607-15. [PMID: 27443822 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2016.06.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2016] [Revised: 06/14/2016] [Accepted: 06/29/2016] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Liver cancers are typically inflammation-associated cancers characterized by close communication between the tumor cells and the tumor environment. This supportive inflammatory environment contributes to the establishment of a pathologic niche consisting of transformed epithelial cells, tumor-educated fibroblasts, endothelial cells, and immunosuppressive immature myeloid cells. Stromal and infiltrated immune cells help determine tumor fate, but the tumor cells themselves, including cancer stem cells, also influence the surrounding cells. This bidirectional communication generates an intricate network of signals that promotes tumor growth. Cell plasticity, which includes transdifferentiation and retrodifferentiation of differentiated cells, increases tumor heterogeneity. Plasticity allows non-cancer stem cells to replenish the cancer stem cell pool, initiate tumorigenesis, and escape the effects of therapeutic agents; it also promotes tumor aggressiveness. There is increasing evidence that an inflammatory environment promotes the retrodifferentiation of tumor cells into stem or progenitor cells; this could account for the low efficacies of some chemotherapies and the high rates of cancer recurrence. Increasing our understanding of the signaling network that connects inflammation with retrodifferentiation could identify new therapeutic targets, and lead to combined therapies that are effective against highly heterogeneous tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florian Cabillic
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, UMR 991, Liver Metabolism and Cancer, Hôpital Pontchaillou, Rennes, France; Université de Rennes 1, Rennes, France; Laboratoire de Cytogénétique et Biologie Cellulaire, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Rennes, Rennes, France
| | - Anne Corlu
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, UMR 991, Liver Metabolism and Cancer, Hôpital Pontchaillou, Rennes, France; Université de Rennes 1, Rennes, France.
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Mezawa Y, Orimo A. The roles of tumor- and metastasis-promoting carcinoma-associated fibroblasts in human carcinomas. Cell Tissue Res 2016; 365:675-89. [PMID: 27506216 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-016-2471-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2016] [Accepted: 07/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Carcinoma-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) constitute a substantial proportion of the non-neoplastic mesenchymal cell compartment in various human tumors. These fibroblasts are phenotypically converted from their progenitors via interactions with nearby cancer cells during the course of tumor progression. The resulting CAFs, in turn, support the growth and progression of carcinoma cells. These fibroblasts have a major influence on the hallmarks of carcinoma and promote tumor malignancy through the secretion of tumor-promoting growth factors, cytokines and exosomes, as well as through the remodeling of the extracellular matrix. Coevolution of CAFs and carcinoma cells during tumorigenesis is therefore essential for progression into fully malignant tumors. Recent studies have revealed the molecular mechanisms underlying CAF functions, especially in tumor invasion, metastasis and drug resistance and have highlighted the significant heterogeneity among these cells. In this review, we summarize the impacts of recently identified roles of tumor-promoting CAFs and discuss the therapeutic implications of targeting the heterotypic interactions of these fibroblasts with carcinoma cells. Graphical Abstract ᅟ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshihiro Mezawa
- Department of Pathology and Oncology, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, 113-8412, Japan
| | - Akira Orimo
- Department of Pathology and Oncology, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, 113-8412, Japan.
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Giannelli G, Mikulits W, Dooley S, Fabregat I, Moustakas A, ten Dijke P, Portincasa P, Winter P, Janssen R, Leporatti S, Herrera B, Sanchez A. The rationale for targeting TGF-β in chronic liver diseases. Eur J Clin Invest 2016; 46:349-61. [PMID: 26823073 DOI: 10.1111/eci.12596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2015] [Accepted: 01/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transforming growth factor (TGF)-β is a pluripotent cytokine that displays several tissue-specific biological activities. In the liver, TGF-β is considered a fundamental molecule, controlling organ size and growth by limiting hepatocyte proliferation. It is involved in fibrogenesis and, therefore, in worsening liver damage, as well as in triggering the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). TGF-β is known to act as an oncosuppressor and also as a tumour promoter in HCC, but its role is still unclear. DESIGN In this review, we discuss the potential role of TGF-β in regulating the tumoural progression of HCC, and therefore the rationale for targeting this molecule in patients with HCC. RESULTS A considerable amount of experimental preclinical evidence suggests that TGF-β is a promising druggable target in patients with HCC. To support this hypothesis, a phase II clinical trial is currently ongoing using a TGF-β pathway inhibitor, and results will soon be available. CONCLUSIONS The identification of new TGF-β related biomarkers will help to select those patients most likely to benefit from therapy aimed at inhibiting the TGF-β pathway. New formulations that may provide a more controlled and sustained delivery of the drug will improve the therapeutic success of such treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gianluigi Giannelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari Medical School, Bari, Italy
| | - Wolfgang Mikulits
- Department of Medicine I, Institute of Cancer Research, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Steven Dooley
- Department of Medicine II, Medical Faculty, Mannheim Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Isabel Fabregat
- Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Aristidis Moustakas
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology and Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Biomedical Center, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Peter ten Dijke
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Cancer Genomics Centre Netherlands, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Piero Portincasa
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari Medical School, Bari, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Blanca Herrera
- Dep. Bioquímica y Biología Molecular II, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
| | - Aranzazu Sanchez
- Dep. Bioquímica y Biología Molecular II, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
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New Tools for Molecular Therapy of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Diseases 2015; 3:325-340. [PMID: 28943628 PMCID: PMC5548255 DOI: 10.3390/diseases3040325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2015] [Revised: 10/15/2015] [Accepted: 10/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of liver cancer, arising from neoplastic transformation of hepatocytes or liver precursor/stem cells. HCC is often associated with pre-existing chronic liver pathologies of different origin (mainly subsequent to HBV and HCV infections), such as fibrosis or cirrhosis. Current therapies are essentially still ineffective, due both to the tumor heterogeneity and the frequent late diagnosis, making necessary the creation of new therapeutic strategies to inhibit tumor onset and progression and improve the survival of patients. A promising strategy for treatment of HCC is the targeted molecular therapy based on the restoration of tumor suppressor proteins lost during neoplastic transformation. In particular, the delivery of master genes of epithelial/hepatocyte differentiation, able to trigger an extensive reprogramming of gene expression, could allow the induction of an efficient antitumor response through the simultaneous adjustment of multiple genetic/epigenetic alterations contributing to tumor development. Here, we report recent literature data supporting the use of members of the liver enriched transcription factor (LETF) family, in particular HNF4α, as tools for gene therapy of HCC.
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Govaere O, Roskams T. Pathogenesis and prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma at the cellular and molecular levels. Clin Liver Dis 2015; 19:261-76. [PMID: 25921662 DOI: 10.1016/j.cld.2015.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Different approaches predict the outcome for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The expression of biliary-hepatic progenitor cell markers generally correlates with poor prognosis. This article focuses on the pathogenesis of HCC, how differentiation or dedifferentiation leads to a phenotype switch, and heterogeneity in the same tumor. A tumor cell decides its fate based on a complex interplay of signaling pathways. Interaction with the microenvironment decides whether it will invade, proliferate, or enter survival mode. Several signaling pathways contribute to stemness features, reflecting a small chemoresistant subpopulation of the tumor that expresses biliary-hepatic progenitor cell markers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivier Govaere
- Translational Cell and Tissue Research, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KULeuven and University Hospitals Leuven, Minderbroedersstraat 12, Leuven B3000, Belgium.
| | - Tania Roskams
- Translational Cell and Tissue Research, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KULeuven and University Hospitals Leuven, Minderbroedersstraat 12, Leuven B3000, Belgium.
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Ma T, Wang Z, Yang Z, Chen J. Cluster of differentiation 147 is a key molecule during hepatocellular carcinoma cell-hepatic stellate cell cross-talk in the rat liver. Mol Med Rep 2015; 12:111-8. [PMID: 25738354 PMCID: PMC4438967 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2015.3429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2014] [Accepted: 01/23/2015] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The cross-talk between hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells and activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) is considered to be important for modulating the biological behavior of tumor cells. However, the molecular links between inflammation and cancer in the activation of HSCs remain to be elucidated. The present study demonstrated that cluster of differentiation (CD)147 is a key molecule involved in the interaction between HCC cells and HSCs. The effects of conditioned medium from human HCC cells on the activation of the human HSC line, LX-2, were assessed using a 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay, western blotting and reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Western blotting, RT-qPCR and gelatin zymography were also used to investigate the effects of CD147 on the activation of LX-2. The expression levels of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and CD147 were assessed in a co-culture system of LX-2 and FHCC-98 cells by immunofluorescence staining and immunoblotting. In hepatic tissues from a rat model of fibrosis, immunohistochemistry and immunoblotting were performed to detect the expression levels of α-SMA and CD147. Tumor-conditioned medium and CD147 promoted cell proliferation, activated LX-2 cells, increased the expression levels of α-SMA, collagen I and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-1), and increased the secretion of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2. The HSCs, which were induced in the co-culture system of HCC cells and HSCs exhibited marked expression levels of CD147. In the hepatic tissue of rat models of fibrosis induced by CCl4, marked expression levels of CD147 were observed in the activated HSCs. Therefore, CD147 promoted the activation of HSCs and was a key molecule during HCC cell-HSC cross-talk in the rat liver.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianyou Ma
- Institute of Endemic Diseases, Environment Related Gene Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, P.R. China
| | - Zhilun Wang
- Institute of Endemic Diseases, Environment Related Gene Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, P.R. China
| | - Zhantian Yang
- Institute of Endemic Diseases, Environment Related Gene Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, P.R. China
| | - Jinghong Chen
- Institute of Endemic Diseases, Environment Related Gene Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, P.R. China
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Weiskirchen R, Tacke F. Cellular and molecular functions of hepatic stellate cells in inflammatory responses and liver immunology. Hepatobiliary Surg Nutr 2015; 3:344-63. [PMID: 25568859 DOI: 10.3978/j.issn.2304-3881.2014.11.03] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2014] [Accepted: 10/17/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The liver is a central immunological organ. Liver resident macrophages, Kupffer cells (KC), but also sinusoidal endothelial cells, dendritic cells (DC) and other immune cells are involved in balancing immunity and tolerance against pathogens, commensals or food antigens. Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) have been primarily characterized as the main effector cells in liver fibrosis, due to their capacity to transdifferentiate into collagen-producing myofibroblasts (MFB). More recent studies elucidated the fundamental role of HSC in liver immunology. HSC are not only the major storage site for dietary vitamin A (Vit A) (retinol, retinoic acid), which is essential for proper function of the immune system. This pericyte further represents a versatile source of many soluble immunological active factors including cytokines [e.g., interleukin 17 (IL-17)] and chemokines [C-C motif chemokine (ligand) 2 (CCL2)], may act as an antigen presenting cell (APC), and has autophagy activity. Additionally, it responds to many immunological triggers via toll-like receptors (TLR) (e.g., TLR4, TLR9) and transduces signals through pathways and mediators traditionally found in immune cells, including the Hedgehog (Hh) pathway or inflammasome activation. Overall, HSC promote rather immune-suppressive responses in homeostasis, like induction of regulatory T cells (Treg), T cell apoptosis (via B7-H1, PDL-1) or inhibition of cytotoxic CD8 T cells. In conditions of liver injury, HSC are important sensors of altered tissue integrity and initiators of innate immune cell activation. Vice versa, several immune cell subtypes interact directly or via soluble mediators with HSC. Such interactions include the mutual activation of HSC (towards MFB) and macrophages or pro-apoptotic signals from natural killer (NK), natural killer T (NKT) and gamma-delta T cells (γδ T-cells) on activated HSC. Current directions of research investigate the immune-modulating functions of HSC in the environment of liver tumors, cellular heterogeneity or interactions promoting HSC deactivation during resolution of liver fibrosis. Understanding the role of HSC as central regulators of liver immunology may lead to novel therapeutic strategies for chronic liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ralf Weiskirchen
- 1 Institute of Molecular Pathobiochemistry, Experimental Gene Therapy and Clinical Chemistry, 2 Department of Internal Medicine III, RWTH University Hospital Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Frank Tacke
- 1 Institute of Molecular Pathobiochemistry, Experimental Gene Therapy and Clinical Chemistry, 2 Department of Internal Medicine III, RWTH University Hospital Aachen, Aachen, Germany
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Kwon OS, Choi SH, Kim JH. Inflammation and Hepatic Fibrosis, Then Hepatocellular Carcinoma. THE KOREAN JOURNAL OF GASTROENTEROLOGY 2015; 66:320-4. [DOI: 10.4166/kjg.2015.66.6.320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Oh Sang Kwon
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gachon University Gil Medical Center, Gachon University School of Medicine, Incheon, Korea
| | - Seong Han Choi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gachon University Gil Medical Center, Gachon University School of Medicine, Incheon, Korea
| | - Ju Hyun Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gachon University Gil Medical Center, Gachon University School of Medicine, Incheon, Korea
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41
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Yang MC, Wang CJ, Liao PC, Yen CJ, Shan YS. Hepatic stellate cells secretes type I collagen to trigger epithelial mesenchymal transition of hepatoma cells. Am J Cancer Res 2014; 4:751-763. [PMID: 25520865 PMCID: PMC4266709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2014] [Accepted: 10/12/2014] [Indexed: 06/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a risk factor for hepatoma. Activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) play a critical role in progression of hepatoma. Resected hepatoma patients with high α-SMA+HSCs infiltration had worse survival, OR: 2.2 and p=0.0434. We hypothesized that HSCs could increase the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) ability of hepatoma cells. In murine model of liver fibrosis with injection of ML1 mice HCC cell line, E-cadherin was lost at the margin of tumor nodule around α-SMA+HSC sites. In subcutaneous tumor model, HSCs could increase the metastatic nodules in the lung, and the expression of E-cadherin was decreased and the Slug was induced. To elucidate the effect of HSCs on hepatoma cells, HSC-T6 was co-cultured with ML1 and the condition medium of HSC-T6 can trigger ML1 cell morphological change, down-expression of E-cadherin, induction of Slug expression, and cell migration. Proteomic analysis of the condition medium showed that collagen I was the target molecule. Collagen type I alone also induced EMT of ML1 cells. Knockdown of collagen type I in HSC-T6 could decrease its induction of EMT on ML1 cells. In conclusion, HSC can secrete collagen type I to trigger hepatoma cells to undergo EMT for metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming-Chen Yang
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung UniversityTainan, Taiwan, China
| | - Chih-Jung Wang
- Department of Surgery, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung UniversityTainan, Taiwan, China
| | - Pao-Chi Liao
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung UniversityTainan, Taiwan, China
| | - Chia-Jui Yen
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung UniversityTainan, Taiwan, China
| | - Yan-Shen Shan
- Department of Surgery, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung UniversityTainan, Taiwan, China
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung UniversityTainan, Taiwan, China
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Sun Y, Xi D, Ding W, Wang F, Zhou H, Ning Q. Soluble FGL2, a novel effector molecule of activated hepatic stellate cells, regulates T-cell function in cirrhotic patients with hepatocellular carcinoma. Hepatol Int 2014; 8:567-75. [PMID: 25298849 PMCID: PMC4182595 DOI: 10.1007/s12072-014-9568-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2014] [Accepted: 07/29/2014] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Purpose To investigate the effects of soluble FGL2 (sFGL2) secreted by hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) on immune suppression in cirrhotic patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Methods Serum sFGL2 levels were examined by ELISA in 40 patients with HCC, liver cirrhosis (LC) or chronic HBV (CHB) infection. A double staining of the immunofluorescence analysis of α-SMA and FGL2 was performed in two cirrhotic liver specimens. The expression of FGL2 in the LX2 cell line was analyzed by immunofluorescence, Western blot and flow cytometry. T-cells purified from HCC patients using magnetic beads were cultured with LX2 cells at different ratios with anti-CD3-stimulating or FGL2-blocking antibodies. The proliferation index (PI) of CD8 + T cells was assessed by flow cytometry, and the secretion of IFN-γ was measured by ELISA. Results sFGL2 levels are significantly higher in patients with HCC or LC compared with those with CHB (p = 0.0039/p = 0.0020). Among HCC patients, those with cirrhosis exhibited significantly higher levels of sFGL2 compared with non-cirrhotic individuals (p = 0.0108). The expressions of FGL2 and α-SMA overlapped in HSCs in liver specimens. FGL2 protein secreted by LX2 cells inhibited T-cell proliferation of HCC patients in a dose-dependent manner in vitro. The PI of CD8 + T cells was significantly enhanced following addition of FGL2 antibody to the culture system (LX2/T-cell ratio of 1:10, p = 0.002). The level of IFN-γ in mixed cultures was inversely correlated with the number of HSCs and was reversed by incubation with FGL2 blocking antibody. Conclusion sFGL2 protein is a novel effector molecule of activated HSCs, which suppresses CD8 + T cell proliferation and interferon-γ production, and it subsequently might contribute to immune suppression during fibrosis and tumorigenesis in the liver.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Sun
- Department of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No 1095, Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030 China
| | - Dong Xi
- Department of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No 1095, Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030 China
| | - Wen Ding
- Department of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No 1095, Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030 China
| | - Faxi Wang
- Department of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No 1095, Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030 China
| | - Haili Zhou
- Department of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No 1095, Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030 China
| | - Qin Ning
- Department of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No 1095, Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030 China
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43
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Stellate cells and the development of liver cancer: therapeutic potential of targeting the stroma. J Hepatol 2014; 60:1306-9. [PMID: 24530649 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2014.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2013] [Revised: 01/31/2014] [Accepted: 02/04/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) are the most common types of primary tumors in the liver. Although major advances have been made in understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying liver carcinogenesis, HCC and ICC are still deadly cancers worldwide waiting for innovative therapeutic options. Growing evidence from the literature highlight the critical role of the tumor cell microenvironment in the pathogenesis of cancer diseases. Thus, targeting the microenvironment, particularly the crosstalk between tumor cells and stromal cells, has emerged as a promising therapeutic strategy. This strategy would be particularly relevant for liver cancers which frequently develop in a setting of chronic inflammation and microenvironment remodeling associated with hepatic fibrosis and cirrhosis, such processes in which hepatic stellate cells (HSC) greatly contribute. This review brings a genomic point of view on the alterations of the cellular microenvironment in liver cancers, particularly the stromal tissue within tumor nodules, emphasizing the importance of the crosstalk between tumor cells and stromal cells, notably activated HSC, in tumor onset and progression. Furthermore, potential therapeutic modalities of targeting the stroma and HSC are discussed.
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Bayo J, Marrodán M, Aquino JB, Silva M, García MG, Mazzolini G. The therapeutic potential of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal cells on hepatocellular carcinoma. Liver Int 2014; 34:330-42. [PMID: 24112437 DOI: 10.1111/liv.12338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2013] [Accepted: 09/15/2013] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are more often obtained from adult and extraembryonic tissues, with the latter sources being likely better from a therapeutic perspective. MSCs show tropism towards inflamed or tumourigenic sites. Mechanisms involved in MSC recruitment into tumours are comprehensively analysed, including chemoattractant signalling axes, endothelial adhesion and transmigration. In addition, signals derived from hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) tumour microenvironment and their influence in MSC tropism and tumour recruitment are dissected, as well as the present controversy regarding their influence on tumour growth and/or metastasis. Finally, evidences available on the use of MSCs and other selected progenitor/stem cells as vehicles of antitumourigenic genes are discussed. A better knowledge of the mechanisms involved in progenitor/stem cell recruitment to HCC tumours is proposed in order to enhance their tumour targeting which may result in improvements in cell-based gene therapy strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Bayo
- Gene Therapy Laboratory, Facultad de Ciencias Biomédicas, Universidad Austral, Derqui-Pilar, Argentina
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45
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Han S, Han L, Yao Y, Sun H, Zan X, Liu Q. Activated hepatic stellate cells promote hepatocellular carcinoma cell migration and invasion via the activation of FAK-MMP9 signaling. Oncol Rep 2013; 31:641-8. [PMID: 24284889 DOI: 10.3892/or.2013.2872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2013] [Accepted: 09/06/2013] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are the major subtype of stromal cells in the liver tumor microenvironment which can promote the growth and migration of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells. However, the underlying mechanisms by which activated HSCs exert their oncogenic effects are not fully understood to date. In the present study, we investigated the number of activated HSCs and its clinicopathological significance in HCC and uncovered its correlation with focal adhesion kinase (FAK)-MMP9 signaling. A higher number of activated HSCs was associated with tumor invasion of the portal vein, advanced TNM stage and poorer tumor differentiation. The number of activated HSCs was positively correlated with the expression levels of p-FAK and MMP9 in HCC. Furthermore, we studied the effects of activated HSCs on the migration and invasion of HCC cells in vitro. Conditioned medium (CM) from activated HSCs or co-culture with activated HSCs significantly induced the migration and invasion of HCC cells. In addition, activation of FAK-MMP9 signaling in HCC was demonstrated in the presence of activated HSC-CM and of co-culture. Inhibition of FAK-MMP9 signaling in HCC cells with FAK short hairpin RNA (shRNA) abrogated the effects of activated HSCs on HCC cells. Taken together, our data suggest that activated HSCs in the tumor microenvironment promote HCC cell migration and invasion via activation of FAK-MMP9 signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaoshan Han
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of the College of Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, P.R. China
| | - Lei Han
- Department of Immunology and Pathogenic Biology, College of Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, P.R. China
| | - Yingmin Yao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of the College of Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, P.R. China
| | - Hao Sun
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of the College of Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, P.R. China
| | - Xianfeng Zan
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of the College of Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, P.R. China
| | - Qingguang Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of the College of Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, P.R. China
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Sun B, Zhang X, Cheng X, Zhang Y, Chen L, Shi L, Liu Z, Qian H, Wu M, Yin Z. Intratumoral hepatic stellate cells as a poor prognostic marker and a new treatment target for hepatocellular carcinoma. PLoS One 2013; 8:e80212. [PMID: 24278260 PMCID: PMC3835887 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0080212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2013] [Accepted: 09/30/2013] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), a specialized stromal cytotype in the liver, have been demonstrated to actively contribute to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development. However, the previous studies were performed using HSC cell lines, and the prognostic value of intratumoral HSCs (tHSCs) was unclear. Here we isolated tHSCs from fresh human HCC tissues, and analyzed the abilities of tHSCs to promote HCC progression by using in vitro assays for cell viability, migration and invasion as well as epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) phenotype. 252 HCC patients who underwent hepatectomy were enrolled for analysis of tHSCs and E-cadherin expression in tumor tissues, and 55 HCC patients for analysis of tHSCs in tumor tissues and circulating tumor cells (CTCs) in blood. Prognostic factors were then identified. The results showed that coculture of tHSCs with HCC cells had a stronger effect on HCC cell viability, migration and invasion, accompanied with the acquisition of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) phenotype. In vivo cotransplantation of HCC cells with tHSCs into nude mice more efficiently promoted tumor formation and growth. Icaritin, a known apoptosis inducer of HSCs, was demonstrated to effectively inhibit tHSC proliferation in vitro and tHSC-induced HCC-promoting effects in vivo. Clinical evidence indicated that tHSCs were rich in 45% of the HCC specimens, tHSC-rich subtypes were negatively correlated either with E-cadherin expression in tumor tissues (r = -0.256, p < 0.001) or with preoperative CTCs in blood (r = -0.287, p = 0.033), and were significantly correlated with tumor size (p = 0.027), TNM staging (p = 0.018), and vascular invasion (p = 0.008). Overall and recurrence-free survival rates of tHSC-rich patients were significantly worse than those for tHSC-poor patients. Multivariate analysis revealed tHSC-rich as an independent factor for overall and recurrence-free survival. In conclusion, tHSCs provide a promising prognostic biomarker and a new treatment target for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Sun
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaofeng Zhang
- Department of Hepatic Surgery, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xianshuo Cheng
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lei Chen
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lehua Shi
- Department of Hepatic Surgery, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhenyu Liu
- Department of Hepatic Surgery, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Haihua Qian
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Mengchao Wu
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Hepatic Surgery, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhengfeng Yin
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
- * E-mail:
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47
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The fibrotic microenvironment as a heterogeneity facet of hepatocellular carcinoma. FIBROGENESIS & TISSUE REPAIR 2013; 6:17. [PMID: 24350713 PMCID: PMC3849063 DOI: 10.1186/1755-1536-6-17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2013] [Accepted: 08/28/2013] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
It has long been recognized that hepatocellular carcinoma heterogeneity arises from variation in the microenvironment or from genomic alteration. Only recently it has become clear that non-genetic alterations, such as cytoskeletal rearrangement, protein localization and formation of protein complexes, are also involved in generating phenotype variability. These proteome fluctuations cause genetically identical cells to vary significantly in their responsiveness to microenvironment stimuli. In the cirrhotic liver pre-malignant hepatocytes are continuously exposed to abnormal microenvironments, such as direct contact with activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and extracellular matrix components. These abnormal environments can have pronounced influences on the epigenetic aspects of cells, translating into abnormal phenotypes. Here we discuss non-genetic causes of phenotypic heterogeneity of hepatocellular carcinoma, with an emphasis on variability of membrane protein complexes and transferred functions raising important implications for diagnosis and treatment.
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48
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Polanska UM, Orimo A. Carcinoma-associated fibroblasts: non-neoplastic tumour-promoting mesenchymal cells. J Cell Physiol 2013; 228:1651-7. [PMID: 23460038 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.24347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 159] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2013] [Accepted: 02/07/2013] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Cancerous stroma coevolves alongside tumour progression, thereby promoting the malignant conversion of epithelial carcinoma cells. To date, an abundance of data have supported crucial roles of the tumour microenvironment (TME) in providing cancer cells with proliferative, migratory, survival and invasive propensities favouring the processes of tumourigenesis. The cancerous reactive stroma is frequently populated by a large number of myofibroblasts (MFs), which are activated, non-transformed fibroblasts expressing α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA). MFs together with non-MF cells present in the tumour-associated stroma are collectively referred to as carcinoma-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), one of the major stromal cell types recognised in various human carcinomas. Recruitment of fibroblasts and/or their progenitors to a tumour mass and their subsequent transdifferentiation into MFs, as well as ongoing maintenance of their activated state, are believed to be essential processes facilitating tumour progression. However, the complex networks of signalling pathways mediating the phenotypic conversion into CAFs, as well as those underlying their tumour-promoting interactions with other tumour-constituting cells, have yet to be fully explored. Histopathological confirmation of the presence of large numbers of CAF MFs within TME and their altered gene expression profiles are known to be associated with disease progression and to serve as independent negative prognostic factors for a wide range of tumour types. In this review, we examine the current evidence shedding light on the emerging roles of tumour-promoting CAFs, cells that are pivotal for epithelial cancer development and progression, and discuss the therapeutic potential of targeting these cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Urszula M Polanska
- CR-UK Stromal-Tumour Interaction Group, Paterson Institute for Cancer Research, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
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49
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Yin C, Evason KJ, Asahina K, Stainier DYR. Hepatic stellate cells in liver development, regeneration, and cancer. J Clin Invest 2013; 123:1902-10. [PMID: 23635788 DOI: 10.1172/jci66369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 524] [Impact Index Per Article: 47.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatic stellate cells are liver-specific mesenchymal cells that play vital roles in liver physiology and fibrogenesis. They are located in the space of Disse and maintain close interactions with sinusoidal endothelial cells and hepatic epithelial cells. It is becoming increasingly clear that hepatic stellate cells have a profound impact on the differentiation, proliferation, and morphogenesis of other hepatic cell types during liver development and regeneration. In this Review, we summarize and evaluate the recent advances in our understanding of the formation and characteristics of hepatic stellate cells, as well as their function in liver development, regeneration, and cancer. We also discuss how improved knowledge of these processes offers new perspectives for the treatment of patients with liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunyue Yin
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Programs in Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, Genetics and Human Genetics, Liver Center and Diabetes Center, Institute for Regeneration Medicine, UCSF, San Francisco, California, USA
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50
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Xu XN, Xiao YS, Fan J. Hepatic stellate cells and metastatic liver neoplasms. Shijie Huaren Xiaohua Zazhi 2013; 21:873-879. [DOI: 10.11569/wcjd.v21.i10.873] [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] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) were first described in the 19th century as a type of multi-functional mesenchymal cells. They are considered as the component of liver microenvironment because of their capacity to differentiate into myofibroblasts which are highly proliferative and have collagen secretion capacity. This paper reviews the interactions between tumor cells and HSCs in liver microenvironment and discusses mechanisms by which tumor-derived factors activate HSCs, and in turn, activated HSC promotes metastatic tumor growth. The interactions between tumor cells and HSCs in liver microenvironment can be regarded as an "amplification loop". The activation of HSCs is a complex process that is regulated by multiple pathways, such as the transforming growth factor-β and platelet-derived growth factor signaling pathways. HSCs provide a possible therapeutic target for liver metastases to effectively increase the survival of patients.
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