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Hou LS, Zhai XP, Zhang YW, Xing JH, Li C, Zhou SY, Zhu XH, Zhang BL. Targeted inhibition of autophagy in hepatic stellate cells by hydroxychloroquine: An effective therapeutic approach for the treatment of liver fibrosis. Liver Int 2024; 44:1937-1951. [PMID: 38606676 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Liver fibrosis is a wound-healing reaction which is the main cause of chronic liver diseases worldwide. The activated hepatic stellate cell (aHSC) is the main driving factor in the development of liver fibrosis. Inhibiting autophagy of aHSC can prevent the progression of liver fibrosis, but inhibiting autophagy of other liver cells has opposite effects. Hence, targeted inhibition of autophagy in aHSC is quite necessary for the treatment of liver fibrosis, which prompts us to explore the targeted delivery system of small molecule autophagy inhibitor hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) that can target aHSC and alleviate the liver fibrosis. METHODS The delivery system of HCQ@retinol-liposome nanoparticles (HCQ@ROL-LNPs) targeting aHSC was constructed by the film dispersion and pH-gradient method. TGF-β-induced HSC activation and thioacetamide (TAA)-induced liver fibrosis mice model were established, and the targeting ability and therapeutic effect of HCQ@ROL-LNPs in liver fibrosis were studied subsequently in vitro and in vivo. RESULTS HCQ@ROL-LNPs have good homogeneity and stability. They inhibited the autophagy of aHSC selectively by HCQ and reduced the deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) and the damage to other liver cells. Compared with the free HCQ and HCQ@LNPs, HCQ@ROL-LNPs had good targeting ability, showing enhanced therapeutic effect and low toxicity to other organs. CONCLUSION Construction of HCQ@ROL-LNPs delivery system lays a theoretical and experimental foundation for the treatment of liver fibrosis and promotes the development of clinical therapeutic drugs for liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Shuang Hou
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xiao-Pei Zhai
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yao-Wen Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jie-Hua Xing
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Chen Li
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Si-Yuan Zhou
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
- Key Laboratory of Pharmacology of the State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xiao-Hong Zhu
- Department of Drug Quality Management, Shannxi Institute for Food and Drug Control, Xi'an, China
| | - Bang-Le Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
- Key Laboratory of Pharmacology of the State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
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Nasr HE, Hegazy AM, El-Shaer NO, El-Shafey RS, Elgendy SA, Elnoury HA, Gazzar WBE, Mohammed LA. Ameliorative effects of sildenafil against carbon tetrachloride induced hepatic fibrosis in rat model through downregulation of osteopontin gene expression. Sci Rep 2024; 14:16902. [PMID: 39043726 PMCID: PMC11266717 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-67305-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The liver carries out many essential tasks, such as synthesising cholesterol, controlling the body's storage of glycogen, and detoxifying metabolites, in addition to performing, and regulating homeostasis. Hepatic fibrosis is a pathological state characterized by over accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) including collagen fibers. Sildenafil (a selective inhibitor of type 5 phosphodiesterase) has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-apoptotic properties. It is commonly used to treat erectile dysfunction in male. The purpose of the current investigation was to evaluate sildenafil's hepatoprotective potential against liver fibrosis in rats that was caused by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4). Liver enzymes and oxidative markers as well as profibrotic genes were determined. The findings showed that sildenafil alleviates the hepatic dysfunctions caused by CCl4 by restoring normal levels of ALT, AST, and GGT as well as by restoring the antioxidant status demonstrated by increased glutathione (GSH), and catalase. In addition, a significantly down-regulated the mRNA expressions of profibrotic genes [collagen-1α, IL-1β, osteopontin (OPN), and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β)]. Additionally, sildenafil lessens the periportal fibrosis between hepatic lobules, congestion and dilatation in the central vein, and the inflammatory cell infiltrations. As a result, it is hypothesized that sildenafil may be helpful in the management of hepatotoxicity brought on by CCl4 through suppressing OPN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hend Elsayed Nasr
- Department of Medical Biochemistery and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha, 13518, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Medhat Hegazy
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Benha University, Moshtohor, Toukh, 13736, Qalyubia, Egypt.
| | - Noha Osama El-Shaer
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha, 13518, Egypt
| | - Rabab Shaban El-Shafey
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha, 13518, Egypt
| | - Salwa A Elgendy
- Deparment of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha, 13518, Egypt
| | - Heba A Elnoury
- Deparment of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha, 13518, Egypt
| | - Walaa Bayoumie El Gazzar
- Department of Medical Biochemistery and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha, 13518, Egypt
| | - Lina Abdelhady Mohammed
- Department of Medical Biochemistery and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha, 13518, Egypt
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Wang X, Li X, Ma X, Zhang L, Han T, Zhang D. Dihydromyricetin alleviates inflammatory bowel disease associated intestinal fibrosis by inducing autophagy through the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2024; 397:4183-4194. [PMID: 38041777 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-023-02856-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023]
Abstract
Intestinal fibrosis is a common complication of inflammatory bowel disease and is characterized by tissue stiffening and luminal narrowing. Dihydromyricetin (DHM) can alleviate liver fibrosis and renal interstitial fibrosis by inducing autophagy. However, whether DHM can alleviate intestinal fibrosis remains unclear. This study is aimed at evaluating the role and mechanism of action of DHM in inflammatory bowel disease-associated intestinal fibrosis. Mice were administered dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) in drinking water to induce inflammatory bowel disease-associated intestinal fibrosis. HE staining, qPCR, and Western blotting were used to analyze colon inflammation. Masson's trichrome staining, qPCR, Western blotting, and immunofluorescence staining were used to evaluate the severity of fibrosis. Transmission electron microscopy and Western blotting were used to assess the activation of autophagosomes. The human colonic fibroblast line CCD-18Co was cultured in the presence of TGF-β1 to develop a fibrotic phenotype. Immunofluorescence staining, Western blotting, and qPCR were used to assess the alteration of fibrosis markers and used to investigate whether DHM-induced autophagy was involved in the inactivation of CCD-18Co cells. Additionally, the role of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway was investigated. DHM alleviated intestinal inflammation and inhibited the progression of intestinal fibrosis. Additionally, DHM induced the activation of autophagy, thereby alleviating intestinal fibrosis, and downregulated the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway in vitro. Overall, this study demonstrated that DHM can inhibit the progression of intestinal fibrosis and activation of colonic fibroblasts by inducing autophagy through the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway, thereby playing a preventive and therapeutic role in intestinal fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- XiaoChun Wang
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, Gansu Provincial Hospital, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - XiaoLi Li
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - XueNi Ma
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - LuDan Zhang
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - TiYun Han
- Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - DeKui Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, 730000, China.
- Department of Gastroenterology, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, 730000, China.
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Abdelgalil MH, Elhammamy RH, Ragab HM, Sheta E, Wahid A. The hepatoprotective effect of 4-phenyltetrahydroquinolines on carbon tetrachloride induced hepatotoxicity in rats through autophagy inhibition. Biol Res 2024; 57:32. [PMID: 38797855 PMCID: PMC11129499 DOI: 10.1186/s40659-024-00510-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The liver serves as a metabolic hub within the human body, playing a crucial role in various essential functions, such as detoxification, nutrient metabolism, and hormone regulation. Therefore, protecting the liver against endogenous and exogenous insults has become a primary focus in medical research. Consequently, the potential hepatoprotective properties of multiple 4-phenyltetrahydroquinolines inspired us to thoroughly study the influence of four specially designed and synthesized derivatives on carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver injury in rats. METHODS AND RESULTS Seventy-seven Wistar albino male rats weighing 140 ± 18 g were divided into eleven groups to investigate both the toxicity profile and the hepatoprotective potential of 4-phenyltetrahydroquinolines. An in-vivo hepatotoxicity model was conducted using CCl4 (1 ml/kg body weight, a 1:1 v/v mixture with corn oil, i.p.) every 72 h for 14 days. The concurrent treatment of rats with our newly synthesized compounds (each at a dose of 25 mg/kg body weight, suspended in 0.5% CMC, p.o.) every 24 h effectively lowered transaminases, preserved liver tissue integrity, and mitigated oxidative stress and inflammation. Moreover, the histopathological examination of liver tissues revealed a significant reduction in liver fibrosis, which was further supported by the immunohistochemical analysis of α-SMA. Additionally, the expression of the apoptotic genes BAX and BCL2 was monitored using real-time PCR, which showed a significant decrease in liver apoptosis. Further investigations unveiled the ability of the compounds to significantly decrease the expression of autophagy-related proteins, Beclin-1 and LC3B, consequently inhibiting autophagy. Finally, our computer-assisted simulation dockingonfirmed the obtained experimental activities. CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that derivatives of 4-phenyltetrahydroquinoline demonstrate hepatoprotective properties in CCl4-induced liver damage and fibrosis in rats. The potential mechanism of action may be due to the inhibition of autophagy in liver cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Hussein Abdelgalil
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Reem H Elhammamy
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Hanan M Ragab
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Eman Sheta
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Wahid
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt.
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Mao S, Wang X, Li M, Liu H, Liang H. The role and mechanism of hydrogen sulfide in liver fibrosis. Nitric Oxide 2024; 145:41-48. [PMID: 38360133 DOI: 10.1016/j.niox.2024.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 01/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is the third new gas signaling molecule in the human body after the discovery of NO and CO. Similar to NO, it has the functions of vasodilation, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and regulation of cell formation. Enzymes that can produce endogenous H2S, such as CSE, CSB, and 3-MST, are common in liver tissues and are important regulatory molecules in the liver. In the development of liver fibrosis, H2S concentration and expression of related enzymes change significantly, which makes it possible to use exogenous gases to treat liver diseases. This review summarizes the role of H2S in liver fibrosis and its complications induced by NAFLD and CCl4, and elaborates on the anti-liver fibrosis effect of H2S through the mechanism of reducing oxidative stress, inhibiting inflammation, regulating autophagy, regulating glucose and lipid metabolism, providing theoretical reference for further research on the treatment of liver fibrosis with H2S.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaoyu Mao
- Department of Infectious Disease and Hepatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Xuemei Wang
- Department of Infectious Disease and Hepatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Miaoqing Li
- Department of Infectious Disease and Hepatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Hanshu Liu
- Department of Infectious Disease and Hepatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Hongxia Liang
- Department of Infectious Disease and Hepatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China.
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Peng ML, Zhang LJ, Luo Y, Xu SY, Long XM, Ao JL, Liao SG, Zhu QF, He X, Xu GB. Phomopsterone B Alleviates Liver Fibrosis through mTOR-Mediated Autophagy and Apoptosis Pathway. Molecules 2024; 29:417. [PMID: 38257331 PMCID: PMC10820960 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29020417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is the initial pathological process of many chronic liver diseases. Targeting hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation is an available strategy for the therapy of liver fibrosis. We aimed to explore the anti-liver fibrosis activity and potential mechanism of phomopsterone B (PB) in human HSCs. The results showed that PB effectively attenuated the proliferation of TGF-β1-stimulated LX-2 cells in a concentration-dependent manner at doses of 1, 2, and 4 μM. Quantitative real-time PCR and Western blot assays displayed that PB significantly reduced the expression levels of α-SMA and collagen I/III. AO/EB and Hoechst33342 staining and flow cytometry assays exhibited that PB promoted the cells' apoptosis. Meanwhile, PB diminished the number of autophagic vesicles and vacuolated structures, and the LC3B fluorescent spots indicated that PB could effectively inhibit the accretion of autophagosomes in LX-2 cells. Moreover, rapamycin and MHY1485 were utilized to further investigate the effect of mTOR in autophagy and apoptosis. The results demonstrated that PB regulated autophagy and apoptosis via the mTOR-dependent pathway in LX-2 cells. In summary, this is the first evidence that PB effectively alleviates liver fibrosis in TGF-β1-stimulated LX-2 cells, and PB may be a promising candidate for the prevention of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei-Lin Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants & School of Pharmacy, Guizhou Medical University, Guian New District, Guiyang 550004, China; (M.-L.P.); (L.-J.Z.); (Y.L.); (S.-Y.X.); (X.-M.L.); (J.-L.A.); (S.-G.L.); (Q.-F.Z.)
- University Engineering Research Center for the Prevention and Treatment of Chronic Diseases by Authentic Medicinal Materials in Guizhou Province, Guian New District, Guiyang 550025, China
- Engineering Research Center for the Development and Application of Ethnic Medicine and TCM, Ministry of Education, Guiyang 550004, China
| | - Li-Jie Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants & School of Pharmacy, Guizhou Medical University, Guian New District, Guiyang 550004, China; (M.-L.P.); (L.-J.Z.); (Y.L.); (S.-Y.X.); (X.-M.L.); (J.-L.A.); (S.-G.L.); (Q.-F.Z.)
| | - Yan Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants & School of Pharmacy, Guizhou Medical University, Guian New District, Guiyang 550004, China; (M.-L.P.); (L.-J.Z.); (Y.L.); (S.-Y.X.); (X.-M.L.); (J.-L.A.); (S.-G.L.); (Q.-F.Z.)
| | - Shi-Ying Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants & School of Pharmacy, Guizhou Medical University, Guian New District, Guiyang 550004, China; (M.-L.P.); (L.-J.Z.); (Y.L.); (S.-Y.X.); (X.-M.L.); (J.-L.A.); (S.-G.L.); (Q.-F.Z.)
| | - Xing-Mei Long
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants & School of Pharmacy, Guizhou Medical University, Guian New District, Guiyang 550004, China; (M.-L.P.); (L.-J.Z.); (Y.L.); (S.-Y.X.); (X.-M.L.); (J.-L.A.); (S.-G.L.); (Q.-F.Z.)
| | - Jun-Li Ao
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants & School of Pharmacy, Guizhou Medical University, Guian New District, Guiyang 550004, China; (M.-L.P.); (L.-J.Z.); (Y.L.); (S.-Y.X.); (X.-M.L.); (J.-L.A.); (S.-G.L.); (Q.-F.Z.)
- Engineering Research Center for the Development and Application of Ethnic Medicine and TCM, Ministry of Education, Guiyang 550004, China
| | - Shang-Gao Liao
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants & School of Pharmacy, Guizhou Medical University, Guian New District, Guiyang 550004, China; (M.-L.P.); (L.-J.Z.); (Y.L.); (S.-Y.X.); (X.-M.L.); (J.-L.A.); (S.-G.L.); (Q.-F.Z.)
- University Engineering Research Center for the Prevention and Treatment of Chronic Diseases by Authentic Medicinal Materials in Guizhou Province, Guian New District, Guiyang 550025, China
- Engineering Research Center for the Development and Application of Ethnic Medicine and TCM, Ministry of Education, Guiyang 550004, China
| | - Qin-Feng Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants & School of Pharmacy, Guizhou Medical University, Guian New District, Guiyang 550004, China; (M.-L.P.); (L.-J.Z.); (Y.L.); (S.-Y.X.); (X.-M.L.); (J.-L.A.); (S.-G.L.); (Q.-F.Z.)
- University Engineering Research Center for the Prevention and Treatment of Chronic Diseases by Authentic Medicinal Materials in Guizhou Province, Guian New District, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Xun He
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants & School of Pharmacy, Guizhou Medical University, Guian New District, Guiyang 550004, China; (M.-L.P.); (L.-J.Z.); (Y.L.); (S.-Y.X.); (X.-M.L.); (J.-L.A.); (S.-G.L.); (Q.-F.Z.)
- University Engineering Research Center for the Prevention and Treatment of Chronic Diseases by Authentic Medicinal Materials in Guizhou Province, Guian New District, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Guo-Bo Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants & School of Pharmacy, Guizhou Medical University, Guian New District, Guiyang 550004, China; (M.-L.P.); (L.-J.Z.); (Y.L.); (S.-Y.X.); (X.-M.L.); (J.-L.A.); (S.-G.L.); (Q.-F.Z.)
- University Engineering Research Center for the Prevention and Treatment of Chronic Diseases by Authentic Medicinal Materials in Guizhou Province, Guian New District, Guiyang 550025, China
- Engineering Research Center for the Development and Application of Ethnic Medicine and TCM, Ministry of Education, Guiyang 550004, China
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Du Y, Zhu S, Zeng H, Wang Z, Huang Y, Zhou Y, Zhang W, Zhu J, Yang C. Research Progress on the Effect of Autophagy and Exosomes on Liver Fibrosis. Curr Stem Cell Res Ther 2024; 19:785-797. [PMID: 37102476 DOI: 10.2174/1574888x18666230427112930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2022] [Revised: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023]
Abstract
Chronic liver disease is a known risk factor for the development of liver cancer, and the development of microRNA (miRNA) liver therapies has been hampered by the difficulty of delivering miRNA to damaged tissues. In recent years, numerous studies have shown that hepatic stellate cell (HSC) autophagy and exosomes play an important role in maintaining liver homeostasis and ameliorating liver fibrosis. In addition, the interaction between HSC autophagy and exosomes also affects the progression of liver fibrosis. In this paper, we review the research progress of mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes (MSC-EVs) loaded with specific miRNA and autophagy, and their related signaling pathways in liver fibrosis, which will provide a more reliable basis for the use of MSC-EVs for therapeutic delivery of miRNAs targeting the chronic liver disease.
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Grants
- 2021A1515011580, 2021B1515140012, 2023A1515010083, 2022A1515011696 Natural Science Foundation of Guangdong Province
- 20211800905342, 20221800905572 Dongguan Science and Technology of Social Development Program
- 20211216 Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine of Guangdong Province
- A2020096, B2021330 Medical Scientific Research Foundation of Guangdong Province
- k202005 Research and Development Fund of Dongguan People's Hospital
- pdjh2021b0224 Special Funds for the Cultivation of Guangdong College Students' Scientific and Technological Innovation (Climbing Program Special Funds)
- 2020ZZDS002, 2020ZYDS005, 2021ZZDS006, 2021ZCDS003, ZYDS003 Guangdong Medical University Students' Innovation Experiment Program
- GDMU2020010, GDMU2020078, GDMU2021003, GDMU2021049 Guangdong Medical University Students' Innovation and Entrepreneurship Training Program
- 202110571010, S202110571078, 202210571008, S202210571075 Provincial and National College Students' Innovation and Entrepreneurship Training Program
- 4SG23033G Guangdong Medical University-Southern Medical University Twinning Research Team Project
- GDMUZ2020009 Scientific Research Fund of Guangdong Medical University
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Affiliation(s)
- Yikuan Du
- Central Laboratory, Affiliated Dongguan Hospital, Southern Medical University, Dongguan, 523059, China
| | - Silin Zhu
- Dongguan Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Tissue Engineering, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, 523808, China
| | - Haojie Zeng
- Dongguan Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Tissue Engineering, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, 523808, China
| | - Zhenjie Wang
- Dongguan Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Tissue Engineering, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, 523808, China
| | - Yixing Huang
- Dongguan Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Tissue Engineering, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, 523808, China
| | - Yuqi Zhou
- Dongguan Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Tissue Engineering, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, 523808, China
| | - Weichui Zhang
- Dongguan Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Tissue Engineering, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, 523808, China
| | - Jinfeng Zhu
- Dongguan Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Tissue Engineering, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, 523808, China
| | - Chun Yang
- Dongguan Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Tissue Engineering, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, 523808, China
- The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, 523716, China
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8
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Bellanti F, Mangieri D, Vendemiale G. Redox Biology and Liver Fibrosis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 25:410. [PMID: 38203581 PMCID: PMC10778611 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25010410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis is a complex process that develops in chronic liver diseases. Even though the initiation and progression of fibrosis rely on the underlying etiology, mutual mechanisms can be recognized and targeted for therapeutic purposes. Irrespective of the primary cause of liver disease, persistent damage to parenchymal cells triggers the overproduction of reactive species, with the consequent disruption of redox balance. Reactive species are important mediators for the homeostasis of both hepatocytes and non-parenchymal liver cells. Indeed, other than acting as cytotoxic agents, reactive species are able to modulate specific signaling pathways that may be relevant to hepatic fibrogenesis. After a brief introduction to redox biology and the mechanisms of fibrogenesis, this review aims to summarize the current evidence of the involvement of redox-dependent pathways in liver fibrosis and focuses on possible therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Bellanti
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy;
| | - Domenica Mangieri
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy;
| | - Gianluigi Vendemiale
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy;
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9
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Atia AF, Abou-Hussien NM, Sweed DM, Sweed E, Abo-Khalil NA. Auranofin attenuates Schistosoma mansoni egg-induced liver granuloma and fibrosis in mice. J Helminthol 2023; 97:e95. [PMID: 38053397 DOI: 10.1017/s0022149x23000792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a serious tropical disease. Despite extensive research into the etiology of liver fibrosis, effective therapeutic options remain limited. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of auranofin in treating hepatic granuloma and fibrogenesis produced by Schistosoma (S.) mansoni eggs. Auranofin is a gold complex that contains thioglucose tetraacetate and triethylphosphine. Eighty BALB/c male mice were divided into four groups (n=20/group): negative control (GI), positive control (GII), and early (GIII) and late (GIV) treatment groups with oral auranofin according to beginning of treatment 4th week and 6th week post-infection. Mice were infected subcutaneously in a dose of 60±10 cercariae/mouse. Worm counts, egg loads, and oogram patterns were determined. Biochemical, histological, and immunostaining of interleukin-1β (IL-1β), Sirtuin 3 (SIRT3), and smooth muscle actin (SMA) were assessed. GIII showed a significant decrease in the total S. mansoni worm burden and ova/gram in liver tissue (with reduction percent of 63.07% and 78.26%, respectively). Schistosomal oogram patterns, immature and mature ova, also showed a significant decrease. The reduction in granuloma number and size was 40.63% and 48.66%, respectively, in GIII, whereas in GIV, the reduction percent was 76.63% and 67.08%. In addition, the degree of fibrosis was significantly diminished in both treated groups. GIV showed significant reduction in IL-1β and SMA expression and increase in SIRT3 expression. These findings reveal how auranofin suppresses the development of liver fibrosis. Therefore, it is crucial to take another look at auranofin as a prospective medication for the treatment of S. mansoni egg-induced hepatic granuloma and consequent fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- A F Atia
- Medical Parasitology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia University, Shebin El-Kom, Menoufia, Egypt
| | - N M Abou-Hussien
- Medical Parasitology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia University, Shebin El-Kom, Menoufia, Egypt
| | - D M Sweed
- Pathology Department, National Liver Institute, Menoufia University, Shebin El-Kom, Menoufia, Egypt
| | - E Sweed
- Clinical Pharmacology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia University, Shebin El-Kom, Menoufia, Egypt
| | - N A Abo-Khalil
- Medical Parasitology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia University, Shebin El-Kom, Menoufia, Egypt
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Hanquier Z, Misra J, Baxter R, Maiers JL. Stress and Liver Fibrogenesis: Understanding the Role and Regulation of Stress Response Pathways in Hepatic Stellate Cells. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2023; 193:1363-1376. [PMID: 37422148 PMCID: PMC10548279 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2023.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/10/2023]
Abstract
Stress response pathways are crucial for cells to adapt to physiological and pathologic conditions. Increased transcription and translation in response to stimuli place a strain on the cell, necessitating increased amino acid supply, protein production and folding, and disposal of misfolded proteins. Stress response pathways, such as the unfolded protein response (UPR) and the integrated stress response (ISR), allow cells to adapt to stress and restore homeostasis; however, their role and regulation in pathologic conditions, such as hepatic fibrogenesis, are unclear. Liver injury promotes fibrogenesis through activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), which produce and secrete fibrogenic proteins to promote tissue repair. This process is exacerbated in chronic liver disease, leading to fibrosis and, if unchecked, cirrhosis. Fibrogenic HSCs exhibit activation of both the UPR and ISR, due in part to increased transcriptional and translational demands, and these stress responses play important roles in fibrogenesis. Targeting these pathways to limit fibrogenesis or promote HSC apoptosis is a potential antifibrotic strategy, but it is limited by our lack of mechanistic understanding of how the UPR and ISR regulate HSC activation and fibrogenesis. This article explores the role of the UPR and ISR in the progression of fibrogenesis, and highlights areas that require further investigation to better understand how the UPR and ISR can be targeted to limit hepatic fibrosis progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary Hanquier
- Department of Molecular and Medical Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Jagannath Misra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Reese Baxter
- Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Jessica L Maiers
- Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana.
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11
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Shegefti S, Bolori S, Nabavi-Rad A, Dabiri H, Yadegar A, Baghaei K. Helicobacter pylori-derived outer membrane vesicles suppress liver autophagy: A novel mechanism for H. pylori-mediated hepatic disorder. Microb Pathog 2023; 183:106319. [PMID: 37619914 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2023.106319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Helicobacter pylori outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) are nano-sized structures, which have been recently suggested to play a crucial role in H. pylori pathogenesis. There are growing evidence indicating the relationship of H. pylori infection with extra-gastroduodenal diseases, especially liver-related disorders. This study was aimed to investigate the effects of H. pylori-derived OMVs on autophagy in hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). MATERIAL AND METHODS A selection of five clinical strains of H. pylori with different virulence genotypes were included. The OMVs were isolated by ultracentrifugation and characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and dynamic light scattering (DLS). The protein concentration of OMVs was measured by BCA assay. MTT assay was used to determine the viability of LX-2 cells (human HSCs) treated with OMVs. The expression level of MTOR, AKT, PI3K, BECN1, ATG16 and LC3B genes was assessed in OMVs-treated LX-2 cells using quantitative real-time PCR. Moreover, immunocytochemistry was performed to evaluate the protein expression of MTOR and LC3B autophagy markers. RESULTS H. pylori strains produced round shape nano-vesicles ranging from 50 to 500 nm. Treatment of HSCs with H. pylori-derived OMVs at concentration of 10 μg/mL for 24 h significantly elevated the expression of autophagy inhibitory markers (PI3K, AKT, and MTOR) and suppressed the mRNA expression level of autophagy core proteins (BECN1, ATG16 and LC3B). Immunocytochemistry also presented a substantial reduction in the concentration of LC3B autophagy core protein, and a marked elevation in the amount of MTOR autophagy inhibitory protein. CONCLUSION This study revealed that H. pylori-derived OMVs could potentially suppress autophagy flux in HSCs as a novel mechanism for H. pylori-mediated liver autophagy impairment and liver disease development. Further studies are required to elucidate the exact role of OMV-carried contents in liver autophagy, and liver-associated disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saina Shegefti
- Foodborne and Waterborne Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shahin Bolori
- Foodborne and Waterborne Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Nabavi-Rad
- Foodborne and Waterborne Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hossein Dabiri
- Microbiology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Abbas Yadegar
- Foodborne and Waterborne Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Kaveh Baghaei
- Basic and Molecular Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Disorder Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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12
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Siapoush S, Rezaei R, Alavifard H, Hatami B, Zali MR, Vosough M, Lorzadeh S, Łos MJ, Baghaei K, Ghavami S. Therapeutic implications of targeting autophagy and TGF-β crosstalk for the treatment of liver fibrosis. Life Sci 2023; 329:121894. [PMID: 37380126 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.121894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is characterized by the excessive deposition and accumulation of extracellular matrix components, mainly collagens, and occurs in response to a broad spectrum of triggers with different etiologies. Under stress conditions, autophagy serves as a highly conserved homeostatic system for cell survival and is importantly involved in various biological processes. Transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) has emerged as a central cytokine in hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation and is the main mediator of liver fibrosis. A growing body of evidence from preclinical and clinical studies suggests that TGF-β1 regulates autophagy, a process that affects various essential (patho)physiological aspects related to liver fibrosis. This review comprehensively highlights recent advances in our understanding of cellular and molecular mechanisms of autophagy, its regulation by TGF-β, and the implication of autophagy in the pathogenesis of progressive liver disorders. Moreover, we evaluated crosstalk between autophagy and TGF-β1 signalling and discussed whether simultaneous inhibition of these pathways could represent a novel approach to improve the efficacy of anti-fibrotic therapy in the treatment of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samaneh Siapoush
- Basic and Molecular Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Disorders Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ramazan Rezaei
- Basic and Molecular Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Disorders Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Helia Alavifard
- Basic and Molecular Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Disorders Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Behzad Hatami
- Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Research center, Research institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Zali
- Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Research center, Research institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Massoud Vosough
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shahrokh Lorzadeh
- Department of Human Anatomy and Cell Science, Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Marek J Łos
- Biotechnology Center, Silesian University of Technology, 8 Krzywousty St., 44-100 Gliwice, Poland; Autophagy Research Center, Department of Biochemistry; Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran; LinkoCare Life Sciences AB, Linkoping, Sweden
| | - Kaveh Baghaei
- Basic and Molecular Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Disorders Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Research center, Research institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Saeid Ghavami
- Department of Human Anatomy and Cell Science, Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada; Faculty of Medicine in Zabrze, University of Technology in Katowice, 41-800 Zabrze, Poland; Research Institute of Oncology and Hematology, Cancer Care Manitoba-University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada; Department of Human Anatomy and Cell Science, University of Manitoba College of Medicine, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.
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13
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Yenilmez B, Harney S, DiMarzio C, Kelly M, Min K, Echeverria D, Bramato BM, Jackson SO, Reddig K, Kim JK, Khvorova A, Czech MP. Dual targeting of hepatocyte DGAT2 and stellate cell FASN alleviates nonalcoholic steatohepatitis in mice. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.07.05.547848. [PMID: 37461560 PMCID: PMC10350091 DOI: 10.1101/2023.07.05.547848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is a malady of multiple cell types associated with hepatocyte triglyceride (TG) accumulation, macrophage inflammation, and stellate cell-induced fibrosis, with no approved therapeutics yet available. Here, we report that stellate cell fatty acid synthase (FASN) in de novo lipogenesis drives the autophagic flux that is required for stellate cell activation and fibrotic collagen production. Further, we employ a dual targeting approach to NASH that selectively depletes collagen through selective stellate cell knockout of FASN (using AAV9-LRAT Cre in FASNfl/fl mice), while lowering hepatocyte triglyceride by depleting DGAT2 with a GalNac-conjugated, fully chemically modified siRNA. DGAT2 silencing in hepatocytes alone or in combination with stellate cell FASNKO reduced liver TG accumulation in a choline-deficient NASH mouse model, while FASNKO in hepatocytes alone (using AAV8-TBG Cre in FASNfl/fl mice) did not. Neither hepatocyte DGAT2 silencing alone nor FASNKO in stellate cells alone decreased fibrosis (total collagen), while loss of both DGAT2 plus FASN caused a highly significant attenuation of NASH. These data establish proof of concept that dual targeting of DGAT2 plus FASN alleviates NASH progression in mice far greater than targeting either gene product alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Batuhan Yenilmez
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Shauna Harney
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Chloe DiMarzio
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Mark Kelly
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Kyounghee Min
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Dimas Echeverria
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Brianna M. Bramato
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Samuel O. Jackson
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Keith Reddig
- Department of Radiology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Jason K. Kim
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Diabetes, Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Anastasia Khvorova
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Michael P. Czech
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
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14
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Yum YJ, Yoo J, Bang K, Jun JE, Jeong IK, Ahn KJ, Chung HY, Hwang YC. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ activation ameliorates liver fibrosis-differential action of transcription factor EB and autophagy on hepatocytes and stellate cells. Hepatol Commun 2023; 7:e0154. [PMID: 37204406 PMCID: PMC10538880 DOI: 10.1097/hc9.0000000000000154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) activation suppresses HSC activation and liver fibrosis. Moreover, autophagy is implicated in hepatic lipid metabolism. Here, we determined whether PPARγ activation ameliorates HSC activation by downregulating transcription factor EB (TFEB)-mediated autophagy. METHODS AND RESULTS Atg7 or Tfeb knockdown in human HSC line LX-2 cells downregulated the expression of fibrogenic markers including α smooth muscle actin, glial fibrillary acidic protein, and collagen type 1. Conversely, Atg7 or Tfeb overexpression upregulated fibrogenic marker expression. Rosiglitazone (RGZ)-mediated PPARγ activation and/or overexpression in LX-2 cells and primary HSCs decreased autophagy, as indicated by LC3B conversion, total and nuclear-TFEB contents, mRFP-LC3 and BODIPY 493/503 colocalization, and GFP-LC3 and LysoTracker colocalization. RGZ treatment decreased liver fat content, liver enzyme levels, and fibrogenic marker expression in high-fat high-cholesterol diet-fed mice. Electron microscopy showed that RGZ treatment restored the high-fat high-cholesterol diet-mediated lipid droplet decrease and autophagic vesicle induction in primary HSCs and liver tissues. However, TFEB overexpression in LX-2 cells offset the aforementioned effects of RGZ on autophagic flux, lipid droplets, and fibrogenic marker expression. CONCLUSIONS Activation of PPARγ with RGZ ameliorated liver fibrosis and downregulation of TFEB and autophagy in HSCs may be important for the antifibrotic effects of PPARγ activation.
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15
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Yin KL, Li M, Song PP, Duan YX, Ye WT, Tang W, Kokudo N, Gao Q, Liao R. Unraveling the Emerging Niche Role of Hepatic Stellate Cell-derived Exosomes in Liver Diseases. J Clin Transl Hepatol 2023; 11:441-451. [PMID: 36643031 PMCID: PMC9817040 DOI: 10.14218/jcth.2022.00326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) play an essential role in various liver diseases, and exosomes are critical mediators of intercellular communication in local and distant microenvironments. Cellular crosstalk between HSCs and surrounding multiple tissue-resident cells promotes or inhibits the activation of HSCs. Substantial evidence has revealed that HSC-derived exosomes are involved in the occurrence and development of liver diseases through the regulation of retinoid metabolism, lipid metabolism, glucose metabolism, protein metabolism, and mitochondrial metabolism. HSC-derived exosomes are underpinned by vehicle molecules, such as mRNAs and microRNAs, that function in, and significantly affect, the processes of various liver diseases, such as acute liver injury, alcoholic liver disease, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, viral hepatitis, fibrosis, and cancer. As such, numerous exosomes derived from HSCs or HSC-associated exosomes have attracted attention because of their biological roles and translational applications as potential targets for therapeutic targets. Herein, we review the pathophysiological and metabolic processes associated with HSC-derived exosomes, their roles in various liver diseases and their potential clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun-Li Yin
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ming Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Pei-Pei Song
- National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yu-Xin Duan
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Wen-Tao Ye
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Wei Tang
- National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Norihiro Kokudo
- National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Qiang Gao
- Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, and Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion (Ministry of Education), Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Correspondence to: Qiang Gao, Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, and Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion (Ministry of Education), Liver Cancer Institute, Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Fudan University, 180 Fenglin Road, Shanghai 200032, China. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6695-9906. ; Rui Liao, Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Medical University, 1 Youyi Road, Chongqing 400016, China. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0057-2792. E-mail:
| | - Rui Liao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Correspondence to: Qiang Gao, Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, and Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion (Ministry of Education), Liver Cancer Institute, Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Fudan University, 180 Fenglin Road, Shanghai 200032, China. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6695-9906. ; Rui Liao, Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Medical University, 1 Youyi Road, Chongqing 400016, China. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0057-2792. E-mail:
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16
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Zhang K, Zhang Q, Jia R, Xiang S, Xu L. A comprehensive review of the relationship between autophagy and sorafenib-resistance in hepatocellular carcinoma: ferroptosis is noteworthy. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1156383. [PMID: 37181755 PMCID: PMC10172583 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1156383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) bear a heavy burden of disease and economic burden but have fewer treatment options. Sorafenib, a multi-kinase inhibitor, is the only approved drug that can be used to limit the progression of inoperable or distant metastatic HCC. However, enhanced autophagy and other molecular mechanisms after sorafenib exposure further induce drug resistance in HCC patients. Sorafenib-associated autophagy also generates a series of biomarkers, which may represent that autophagy is a critical section of sorafenib-resistance in HCC. Furthermore, many classic signaling pathways have been found to be involved in sorafenib-associated autophagy, including the HIF/mTOR signaling pathway, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and sphingolipid signaling, among others. In turn, autophagy also provokes autophagic activity in components of the tumor microenvironment, including tumor cells and stem cells, further impacting sorafenib-resistance in HCC through a special autophagic cell death process called ferroptosis. In this review, we summarized the latest research progress and molecular mechanisms of sorafenib-resistance-associated autophagy in detail, providing new insights and ideas for unraveling the dilemma of sorafenib-resistance in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kangnan Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Qinghui Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Rongrong Jia
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shihao Xiang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Shihao Xiang, ; Ling Xu,
| | - Ling Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Shihao Xiang, ; Ling Xu,
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17
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Mak KM, Wu C, Cheng CP. Lipid droplets, the Holy Grail of hepatic stellate cells: In health and hepatic fibrosis. Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2022; 306:983-1010. [PMID: 36516055 DOI: 10.1002/ar.25138] [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: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Lipid droplets (LDs) are distinct morphological markers of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). They are composed of a core of predominantly retinyl esters and triacylglycerols surrounded by a phospholipid layer; the latter harbors perilipins 2, 3, and 5, which help control LD lipolysis. Electron microscopy distinguishes between Types I and II LDs. Type I LDs are surrounded by acid phosphatase-positive lysosomes, which likely digest LDs. LD count and retinoid concentration are modulated by vitamin A intake. Alcohol consumption depletes hepatic retinoids and HSC LDs, with concomitant transformation of HSCs to fibrogenic myofibroblast-like cells. LD loss and accompanying HSC activation occur in HSC cell culture models. Loss of LDs is a consequence of and not a prerequisite for HSC activation. LDs are endowed with enzymes for synthesizing retinyl esters and triacylglycerols as well as neutral lipases and lysosomal acid lipase for breaking down LDs. HSCs have two distinct metabolic LD pools: an "original" pool in quiescent HSCs and a "new" pool emerging in HSC activation; this two-pool model provides a platform for analyzing LD dynamics in HSC activation. Besides lipolysis, LDs are degraded by lipophagy; however, the coordination between and relative contributions of these two pathways to LD removal are unclear. While induction of autophagy accelerates LD loss in quiescent HSCs and promotes HSC activation, blocking autophagy impairs LD degradation and inhibits HSC activation and fibrosis. This article is a critique of five decades of investigations into the morphology, molecular structure, synthesis, and degradation of LDs associated with HSC activation and fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ki M Mak
- Department of Medical Education and Center for Anatomy and Functional Morphology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Catherine Wu
- Department of Medical Education and Center for Anatomy and Functional Morphology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Christopher P Cheng
- Department of Medical Education and Center for Anatomy and Functional Morphology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
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18
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Wu X, Liu XQ, Liu ZN, Xia GQ, Zhu H, Zhang MD, Wu BM, Lv XW. CD73 aggravates alcohol-related liver fibrosis by promoting autophagy mediated activation of hepatic stellate cells through AMPK/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. Int Immunopharmacol 2022; 113:109229. [DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2022.109229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Revised: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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19
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Lee JH, Im SS. Function of gaseous hydrogen sulfide in liver fibrosis. BMB Rep 2022. [PMID: 36195563 PMCID: PMC9623240 DOI: 10.5483/bmbrep.2022.55.10.124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the past few years, hydrogen sulfide (H2S) has been shown to exert several biological functions in mammalian. The endogenous production of H2S is mainly mediated by cystathione β-synthase, cystathione γ-lyase and 3-mercaptopyruvate sulfur transferase. These enzymes are broadly expressed in liver tissue and regulates liver function by working on a variety of molecular targets. As an important regulator of liver function, H2S is critically involved in the pathogenesis of various liver diseases, such as non-alcoholic steatohepatitis and liver cancer. Targeting H2S-generating enzymes may be a therapeutic strategy for controlling liver diseases. This review described the function of H2S in liver disease and summarized recent characterized role of H2S in several cellular process of the liver.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jae-Ho Lee
- Department of Physiology, Keimyung University School of Medicine, Daegu 42601, Korea
| | - Seung-Soon Im
- Department of Physiology, Keimyung University School of Medicine, Daegu 42601, Korea
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20
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Autophagy Dysregulation in Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease: A New Therapeutic Target. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231710055. [PMID: 36077452 PMCID: PMC9456355 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231710055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Metabolic associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is one of the most common causes of chronic liver disease worldwide. To date, there is no FDA-approved treatment, so there is an urgent need to determine its pathophysiology and underlying molecular mechanisms. Autophagy is a lysosomal degradation pathway that removes damaged organelles and misfolded proteins after cell injury through endoplasmic reticulum stress or starvation, which inhibits apoptosis and promotes cell survival. Recent studies have shown that autophagy plays an important role in removing lipid droplets from hepatocytes. Autophagy has also been reported to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and provide energy for the hepatic stellate cells activation during liver fibrosis. Thyroid hormone, irisin, melatonin, hydrogen sulfide, sulforaphane, DA-1241, vacuole membrane protein 1, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2, sodium-glucose co-transporter type-2 inhibitors, immunity-related GTPase M, and autophagy-related gene 7 have been reported to ameliorate MAFLD via autophagic induction. Lipid receptor CD36, SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein and leucine aminopeptidase 3 play a negative role in the autophagic function. This review summarizes recent advances in the role of autophagy in MAFLD. Autophagy modulates major pathological changes, including hepatic lipid metabolism, inflammation, and fibrosis, suggesting the potential of modulating autophagy for the treatment of MAFLD.
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Anwar C, Tsai ML, Chen BN, Hsu LY, Lai CS. Molecular mechanisms of Agardhiella subulata attenuates hepatic fibrosis by modulating hepatic stellate cell activation via the reduction of autophagy. J Funct Foods 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2022.105226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
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Chen S, He Z, Xie W, Chen X, Lin Z, Ma J, Liu Z, Yang S, Wang Y. Ginsenoside Rh2 attenuates CDAHFD-induced liver fibrosis in mice by improving intestinal microbial composition and regulating LPS-mediated autophagy. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2022; 101:154121. [PMID: 35489327 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2022.154121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 03/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/17/2022] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nowadays, liver diseases are threatening more and more people all over the world and one of the main causes is liver fibrosis. However, there is no effective way to reverse liver fibrosis. PURPOSE To investigate whether ginsenoside Rh2 (G-Rh2) can alleviate liver fibrosis and elucidate its underlying mechanism. METHODS In vivo and in vitro methods were adopted in this research. Choline-deficient, L-amino acid-defined, high-fat diet (CDAHFD) was used to feed mice to induce liver fibrosis, and HSC-T6 cells were used to establish an LPS-induced model of liver fibrosis. Through histopathological staining, hematoxylin-eosin (H&E) staining, western blot analysis, intestinal bacteria 16SrRNA sequencing, and other technical means, the research explored whether G-Rh2 possesses anti-fibrotic activity. RESULTS G-Rh2 could notably alleviate CDAHFD-induced liver fibrosis in mice. In particular, it could alleviate liver injury and reduce plasma lipopolysaccharide (LPS) levels. Additionally, G-Rh2 could repair intestinal injury as well as regulate intestinal microbial diversity and composition. HSC-T6 cells could be activated and autophagy could be induced further by LPS in vitro. After being treated with G-Rh2, autophagy was restrained and activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) was controlled. Deeper research showed that G-Rh2 restrained the activation of HSCs via stimulating the AKT-mTOR signaling pathway, restraining autophagy. CONCLUSION The results of our studies clearly suggest that G-Rh2 repairs intestinal injury, improves intestinal microbial composition, reduces plasma LPS levels, and activates the AKT-mTOR signaling pathway to restrain LPS-mediated autophagy, thus playing an important role in anti-hepatic fibrosis. G-Rh2 was found to have the potential to effectively alleviate liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyu Chen
- College of Chinese Medicinal Materials, JiLin Agricultural University, Changchun,130118, China
| | - Ziwei He
- College of Chinese Medicinal Materials, JiLin Agricultural University, Changchun,130118, China
| | - Wei Xie
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, WenZhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Xuan Chen
- College of Chinese Medicinal Materials, JiLin Agricultural University, Changchun,130118, China
| | - Zhuofeng Lin
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, WenZhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Jisheng Ma
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, WenZhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Zhi Liu
- College of Chinese Medicinal Materials, JiLin Agricultural University, Changchun,130118, China
| | - Shihai Yang
- College of Chinese Medicinal Materials, JiLin Agricultural University, Changchun,130118, China; Laboratory for cultivation and breeding of medicinal plants of National Administrition of Traditional Chinese Medicine, JiLin Agricultural University, Changchun,130118, China.
| | - Yanfang Wang
- College of Chinese Medicinal Materials, JiLin Agricultural University, Changchun,130118, China; Laboratory for cultivation and breeding of medicinal plants of National Administrition of Traditional Chinese Medicine, JiLin Agricultural University, Changchun,130118, China.
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23
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Cao Y, Mai W, Li R, Deng S, Li L, Zhou Y, Qin Q, Zhang Y, Zhou X, Han M, Liang P, Yan Y, Hao Y, Xie W, Yan J, Zhu L. Macrophages evoke autophagy of hepatic stellate cells to promote liver fibrosis in NAFLD mice via the PGE2/EP4 pathway. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 79:303. [PMID: 35588334 PMCID: PMC11071853 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04319-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Revised: 04/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The pathogenesis of liver fibrosis in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) remains unclear and the effective treatments have not been explored yet. The activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) is considered as the most critical factor in the progression of liver fibrosis and cirrhosis. Autophagy has recently been identified as a new mechanism to regulate HSC activation. Here, we found that liver macrophages were polarized toward type 2 (M2) during the progression of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and liver fibrosis in both patients and NAFLD mice. Using the methionine-choline-deficient (MCD) diet NAFLD murine model and the in vitro cell culture system, we identified that the M2 macrophages promoted HSC autophagy by secreting prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and binding its receptor EP4 on the surface of HSCs, which consequently enhanced HSC activation, extracellular matrix deposition, and liver fibrosis. Mechanistically, PGE2/EP4 signals enhanced HSC autophagy through the Erk pathway. A specific PGE2/EP4 antagonist E7046 significantly inhibited M2 macrophage-mediated HSC autophagy and improved liver fibrosis and histopathology in NAFLD mice. Our study provides novel mechanistic insights into the regulation of HSC activation and liver fibrosis. Our findings suggest that the PGE2/EP4 pathway is a promising therapeutic target to prevent NASH progression into cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Cao
- Center of Liver Diseases, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100015, China
| | - Weili Mai
- Center of Liver Diseases, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100015, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, General Hospital of the Southern Theater of the Chinese People's Liberation Army, Guangzhou, 510030, China
| | - Rui Li
- Beijing Institute of Infectious Diseases, Beijing, 100015, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Emerging Infectious Diseases, Institute of Infectious Diseases, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100015, China
- National Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100015, China
| | - Shuwei Deng
- Beijing Institute of Infectious Diseases, Beijing, 100015, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Emerging Infectious Diseases, Institute of Infectious Diseases, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100015, China
- National Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100015, China
| | - Lan Li
- Beijing Institute of Infectious Diseases, Beijing, 100015, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Emerging Infectious Diseases, Institute of Infectious Diseases, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100015, China
- National Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100015, China
| | - Yanxi Zhou
- Beijing Institute of Infectious Diseases, Beijing, 100015, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Emerging Infectious Diseases, Institute of Infectious Diseases, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100015, China
- National Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100015, China
| | - Qiushi Qin
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Emerging Infectious Diseases, Institute of Infectious Diseases, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100015, China
- Institute of Infectious Diseases, Peking University Ditan Teaching Hospital, Beijing, 100015, China
| | - Yue Zhang
- Beijing Institute of Infectious Diseases, Beijing, 100015, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Emerging Infectious Diseases, Institute of Infectious Diseases, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100015, China
- National Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100015, China
| | - Xingang Zhou
- Department of Pathology, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100015, China
| | - Ming Han
- Beijing Institute of Infectious Diseases, Beijing, 100015, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Emerging Infectious Diseases, Institute of Infectious Diseases, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100015, China
- National Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100015, China
| | - Pu Liang
- Beijing Institute of Infectious Diseases, Beijing, 100015, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Emerging Infectious Diseases, Institute of Infectious Diseases, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100015, China
- National Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100015, China
| | - Yonghong Yan
- Beijing Institute of Infectious Diseases, Beijing, 100015, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Emerging Infectious Diseases, Institute of Infectious Diseases, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100015, China
- National Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100015, China
| | - Yu Hao
- Beijing Institute of Infectious Diseases, Beijing, 100015, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Emerging Infectious Diseases, Institute of Infectious Diseases, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100015, China
- National Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100015, China
| | - Wen Xie
- Center of Liver Diseases, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100015, China.
| | - Jie Yan
- Center of Liver Diseases, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100015, China.
| | - Liuluan Zhu
- Beijing Institute of Infectious Diseases, Beijing, 100015, China.
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Emerging Infectious Diseases, Institute of Infectious Diseases, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100015, China.
- National Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100015, China.
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24
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Lucantoni F, Benedicto AM, Gruevska A, Moragrega ÁB, Fuster-Martínez I, Esplugues JV, Blas-García A, Apostolova N. Implication of autophagy in the antifibrogenic effect of Rilpivirine: when more is less. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:385. [PMID: 35443746 PMCID: PMC9021290 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-04789-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
As the main extracellular matrix-producing cells, activated hepatic stellate cells (HSC) are fundamental mediators of liver fibrosis (LF), and understanding their activation/inactivation mechanisms is paramount to the search for novel therapeutics. The antiretroviral drug Rilpivirine (RPV) has demonstrated a hepatoprotective effect in several animal models of chronic liver injury that is related to its antifibrogenic and apoptotic action in HSC. In the present study, we evaluated whether autophagy is implicated in the hepatoprotective action of RPV, as autophagy plays an important role in HSC transdifferentiation. We employed two standard mouse models of chronic liver injury - fatty liver disease and carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced hepatotoxicity -and cultured HSC activated with the profibrotic cytokine TGF-β. RPV enhanced autophagy in the whole liver of both mouse models and in activated HSC, evident in the protein expression of autophagy markers, increased autophagosome content and lysosomal mass. Moreover, increased autophagic flux was observed in RPV-exposed HSC as revealed by tandem fluorescence-tagged LC3 and p62 and analysis of LC3-II accumulation in cells exposed to the lysosomal inhibitor chloroquine. Importantly, autophagy was involved in the cytotoxic effect of RPV on HSC, though in a differential manner. Pharmacological inhibition of autophagy by 3-methyladenine (3-MA) did not affect the diminishing effect of RPV on viability, while treatment with wortmannin or depletion of specific autophagy proteins (ATG5, Beclin-1 and SQSTM1/p62) rescued the detrimental effect of high concentrations of RPV on the viability of activated HSC. Finally, we also provide evidence that RPV compromises the viability of TGF-β-induced HSC independently of its antifibrogenic effect, observed as reduced collagen 1A1 synthesis, and that this effect does not include RPV´s modulation of autophagy. In summary, as a contributor to the mechanisms involved in the hepatoprotective action of RPV, autophagy may be a good candidate to explore when developing novel therapeutics for LF.
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25
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Mastoridou EM, Goussia AC, Glantzounis GK, Kanavaros P, Charchanti AV. Autophagy and Exosomes: Cross-Regulated Pathways Playing Major Roles in Hepatic Stellate Cells Activation and Liver Fibrosis. Front Physiol 2022; 12:801340. [PMID: 35185602 PMCID: PMC8850693 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.801340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic liver injury, regardless of the underlying disease, results in gradual alteration of the physiological hepatic architecture and in excessive production of extracellular matrix, eventually leading to cirrhosis Liver cellular architecture consists of different cell populations, among which hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) have been found to play a major role in the fibrotic process. Under normal conditions, HSCs serve as the main storage site for vitamin A, however, pathological stimuli lead to their transdifferentiation into myofibroblast cells, with autophagy being the key regulator of their activation, through lipophagy of their lipid droplets. Nevertheless, the role of autophagy in liver fibrosis is multifaceted, as increased autophagic levels have been associated with alleviation of the fibrotic process. In addition, it has been found that HSCs receive paracrine stimuli from neighboring cells, such as injured hepatocytes, Kupffer cells, sinusoidal endothelial cells, which promote liver fibrosis. These stimuli have been found to be transmitted via exosomes, which are incorporated by HSCs and can either be degraded through lysosomes or be secreted back into the extracellular space via fusion with the plasma membrane. Furthermore, it has been demonstrated that autophagy and exosomes may be concomitantly or reciprocally regulated, depending on the cellular conditions. Given that increased levels of autophagy are required to activate HSCs, it is important to investigate whether autophagy levels decrease at later stages of hepatic stellate cell activation, leading to increased release of exosomes and further propagation of hepatic fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleftheria M. Mastoridou
- Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Anna C. Goussia
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Georgios K. Glantzounis
- Hepato-Pancreatico-Biliary Unit, Department of Surgery, University General Hospital of Ioannina and School of Medicine, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Panagiotis Kanavaros
- Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Antonia V. Charchanti
- Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
- *Correspondence: Antonia V. Charchanti,
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26
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Zheng WV, Li Y, Cheng X, Xu Y, Zhou T, Li D, Xiong Y, Wang S, Chen Z. Uridine alleviates carbon tetrachloride-induced liver fibrosis by regulating the activity of liver-related cells. J Cell Mol Med 2021; 26:840-854. [PMID: 34970843 PMCID: PMC8817115 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.17131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Revised: 11/28/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
At present, liver fibrosis is a major challenge of global health. When hepatocyte regeneration cannot compensate for hepatocyte death, it will develop into liver fibrosis in chronic liver disease. Initially, collagen produced by myofibroblasts plays a role in maintaining liver integrity, but excessive collagen accumulation can inhibit the residual liver function, leading to liver failure. At present, many scientists are actively looking for drugs to alleviate liver fibrosis. In the current study, we investigated the potential role of uridine in the treatment of liver fibrosis (uridine is a plant/animal‐derived pyrimidine nucleoside, therefore uridine can also be ingested and absorbed by the body, accompanied by the process of food intake). For this, we systematically studied the effect of uridine on CCl4‐induced liver fibrosis in vitro and in vivo through a series of technologies, such as Western blot, laser confocal scanning microscope, ELISA and immunohistochemistry. The experimental results showed that uridine can effectively reduce the accumulation of collagen in liver. Furthermore, uridine can improve the activity of liver cells and alleviate CCl4‐induced liver injury. Furthermore, uridine can significantly alleviate the risk factors caused by hepatic stellate cell activation, uridine treatment significantly down‐regulated the expression of α‐SMA, collagen type‐I and fibronectin. In conclusion, the current research shows that uridine can alleviate CCl4‐induced liver fibrosis, suggesting that uridine can be used as a potential drug to alleviate liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei V Zheng
- Intervention and Cell Therapy Center, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yaqin Li
- Department of Infectious Disease, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xianyi Cheng
- Intervention and Cell Therapy Center, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China.,Department of Minimally Invasion Intervention, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yanwei Xu
- Intervention and Cell Therapy Center, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Tao Zhou
- Intervention and Cell Therapy Center, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Dezhi Li
- Intervention and Cell Therapy Center, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yu Xiong
- Intervention and Cell Therapy Center, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China.,Department of Minimally Invasion Intervention, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Shaobin Wang
- Health Management Center, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zaizhong Chen
- Intervention and Cell Therapy Center, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China.,Department of Minimally Invasion Intervention, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
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27
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Herranz-Itúrbide M, Peñuelas-Haro I, Espinosa-Sotelo R, Bertran E, Fabregat I. The TGF-β/NADPH Oxidases Axis in the Regulation of Liver Cell Biology in Health and Disease. Cells 2021; 10:cells10092312. [PMID: 34571961 PMCID: PMC8470857 DOI: 10.3390/cells10092312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Revised: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The Transforming Growth Factor-beta (TGF-β) pathway plays essential roles in liver development and homeostasis and become a relevant factor involved in different liver pathologies, particularly fibrosis and cancer. The family of NADPH oxidases (NOXs) has emerged in recent years as targets of the TGF-β pathway mediating many of its effects on hepatocytes, stellate cells and macrophages. This review focuses on how the axis TGF-β/NOXs may regulate the biology of different liver cells and how this influences physiological situations, such as liver regeneration, and pathological circumstances, such as liver fibrosis and cancer. Finally, we discuss whether NOX inhibitors may be considered as potential therapeutic tools in liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Macarena Herranz-Itúrbide
- TGF-β and Cancer Group, Oncobell Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, 08908 Barcelona, Spain; (M.H.-I.); (I.P.-H.); (R.E.-S.); (E.B.)
- Oncology Program, CIBEREHD, National Biomedical Research Institute on Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Irene Peñuelas-Haro
- TGF-β and Cancer Group, Oncobell Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, 08908 Barcelona, Spain; (M.H.-I.); (I.P.-H.); (R.E.-S.); (E.B.)
- Oncology Program, CIBEREHD, National Biomedical Research Institute on Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Rut Espinosa-Sotelo
- TGF-β and Cancer Group, Oncobell Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, 08908 Barcelona, Spain; (M.H.-I.); (I.P.-H.); (R.E.-S.); (E.B.)
- Oncology Program, CIBEREHD, National Biomedical Research Institute on Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Esther Bertran
- TGF-β and Cancer Group, Oncobell Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, 08908 Barcelona, Spain; (M.H.-I.); (I.P.-H.); (R.E.-S.); (E.B.)
- Oncology Program, CIBEREHD, National Biomedical Research Institute on Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Isabel Fabregat
- TGF-β and Cancer Group, Oncobell Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, 08908 Barcelona, Spain; (M.H.-I.); (I.P.-H.); (R.E.-S.); (E.B.)
- Oncology Program, CIBEREHD, National Biomedical Research Institute on Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, 08907 Barcelona, Spain
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-932-607-828
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Zhang N, Xue M, Sun T, Yang J, Pei Z, Qin K. Fucoidan as an Autophagy Regulator: Mechanisms and Therapeutic Potentials for Cancer and Other Diseases. Nutr Cancer 2021; 74:1568-1579. [PMID: 34477470 DOI: 10.1080/01635581.2021.1973045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Fucoidan, a natural polysaccharide with a variety of classical bioactivities mainly sourced from brown algae, has been extensively studied owing to its favorable pharmacological effects, including anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, anticoagulant and liver protection. Recently it has been found to play a regulatory role in the processes of autophagy. Autophagy is an important cellular process that effectively protects cells and organisms from stimulating factors such as nutrient deficiency, low cellular ATP levels, metabolic stress, growth factor deprivation and hypoxic conditions. In recent years, many studies have shown that fucoidan can treat human diseases by regulating autophagy process though cell signaling pathways. In this review, we summarize the latest progress in the discovery of natural autophagy regulator of fucoidan for the therapeutic application in cardiac diseases, cancers and liver diseases, aiming to provide the new pharmacological application that fucoidan may treat human diseases by regulating autophagy. Furthermore, we look forward to seeing more diseases that would be treated by autophagy modulator of fucoidan and the discovery of more elaborate autophagy regulation mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Zhang
- Basic Medical College, Qingdao University of Medicine, Qingdao, PR China
| | - Meilan Xue
- Basic Medical College, Qingdao University of Medicine, Qingdao, PR China
| | - Ting Sun
- Basic Medical College, Qingdao University of Medicine, Qingdao, PR China
| | - Jia Yang
- Basic Medical College, Qingdao University of Medicine, Qingdao, PR China
| | - Zhongqian Pei
- Basic Medical College, Qingdao University of Medicine, Qingdao, PR China
| | - Kunpeng Qin
- Basic Medical College, Qingdao University of Medicine, Qingdao, PR China
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Zhou X, Yu L, Zhou M, Hou P, Yi L, Mi M. Dihydromyricetin ameliorates liver fibrosis via inhibition of hepatic stellate cells by inducing autophagy and natural killer cell-mediated killing effect. Nutr Metab (Lond) 2021; 18:64. [PMID: 34147124 PMCID: PMC8214786 DOI: 10.1186/s12986-021-00589-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background This study investigated the mechanisms underlying the preventive effect of dihydromyricetin (DHM) against liver fibrosis involving hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and hepatic natural killer (NK) cells. Methods A carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver fibrosis model was established in C57BL/6 mice to study the antifibrotic effect of DHM based on serum biochemical parameters, histological and immunofluorescence stainings, and the expression of several fibrosis-related markers. Based on the immunoregulatory role of DHM, the effect of DHM on NK cell activation ex vivo was evaluated by flow cytometry. Then, we investigated whether DHM-induced autophagy was involved in HSCs inactivation using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, transmission electron microscopy, and western blot analysis. Thereafter, the role of DHM in NK cell-mediated killing was studied by in vitro coculture of NK cells and HSCs, with subsequent analysis by flow cytometry. Finally, the mechanism by which DHM regulates NK cells was studied by western blot analysis. Results DHM ameliorated liver fibrosis in C57BL/6 mice, as characterized by decreased serum alanine transaminase and aspartate transaminase levels, decreased expressions of collagen I alpha 1 (CoL-1α1), collagen I alpha 2 (CoL-1α2), tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases 1 (TIMP-1), α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and desmin, as well as increased expression of matrix metalloproteinase 1 (MMP1). Interestingly, HSCs activation was significantly inhibited by DHM in vivo and in vitro. As expected, DHM also upregulated autophagy-related indicators in liver from CCl4-treated mice. DHM also prevented TGF-β1-induced activation of HSCs in vitro by initiating autophagic flux. In contrast, the autophagy inhibitor 3-methyladenine markedly abolished the antifibrotic effect of DHM. Surprisingly, the frequency of activated intrahepatic NK cells was significantly elevated by DHM ex vivo. Furthermore, DHM enhanced NK cell-mediated killing of HSCs by increasing IFN-γ expression, which was abolished by an anti-IFN-γ neutralizing antibody. Mechanistically, DHM-induced IFN-γ expression was through AhR-NF-κB/STAT3 pathway in NK cells. Conclusion These results demonstrated that DHM can ameliorate the progression of liver fibrosis and inhibition of HSCs activation by inducing autophagy and enhancing NK cell-mediated killing through the AhR-NF-κB/STAT3-IFN-γ signaling pathway, providing new insights into the preventive role of DHM in liver fibrosis. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12986-021-00589-6.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Zhou
- Research Center for Nutrition and Food Safety, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Nutrition and Food Safety, Institute of Military Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), NO. 30th Gao Tan Yan Street, Shapingba District, Chongqing, 400038, People's Republic of China
| | - Li Yu
- Research Center for Nutrition and Food Safety, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Nutrition and Food Safety, Institute of Military Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), NO. 30th Gao Tan Yan Street, Shapingba District, Chongqing, 400038, People's Republic of China
| | - Min Zhou
- Research Center for Nutrition and Food Safety, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Nutrition and Food Safety, Institute of Military Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), NO. 30th Gao Tan Yan Street, Shapingba District, Chongqing, 400038, People's Republic of China
| | - Pengfei Hou
- Research Center for Nutrition and Food Safety, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Nutrition and Food Safety, Institute of Military Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), NO. 30th Gao Tan Yan Street, Shapingba District, Chongqing, 400038, People's Republic of China
| | - Long Yi
- Research Center for Nutrition and Food Safety, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Nutrition and Food Safety, Institute of Military Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), NO. 30th Gao Tan Yan Street, Shapingba District, Chongqing, 400038, People's Republic of China.
| | - Mantian Mi
- Research Center for Nutrition and Food Safety, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Nutrition and Food Safety, Institute of Military Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), NO. 30th Gao Tan Yan Street, Shapingba District, Chongqing, 400038, People's Republic of China.
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30
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Duwaerts CC, Maiers JL. ER Disposal Pathways in Chronic Liver Disease: Protective, Pathogenic, and Potential Therapeutic Targets. Front Mol Biosci 2021; 8:804097. [PMID: 35174209 PMCID: PMC8841999 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.804097] [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: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The endoplasmic reticulum is a central player in liver pathophysiology. Chronic injury to the ER through increased lipid content, alcohol metabolism, or accumulation of misfolded proteins causes ER stress, dysregulated hepatocyte function, inflammation, and worsened disease pathogenesis. A key adaptation of the ER to resolve stress is the removal of excess or misfolded proteins. Degradation of intra-luminal or ER membrane proteins occurs through distinct mechanisms that include ER-associated Degradation (ERAD) and ER-to-lysosome-associated degradation (ERLAD), which includes macro-ER-phagy, micro-ER-phagy, and Atg8/LC-3-dependent vesicular delivery. All three of these processes are critical for removing misfolded or unfolded protein aggregates, and re-establishing ER homeostasis following expansion/stress, which is critical for liver function and adaptation to injury. Despite playing a key role in resolving ER stress, the contribution of these degradative processes to liver physiology and pathophysiology is understudied. Analysis of publicly available datasets from diseased livers revealed that numerous genes involved in ER-related degradative pathways are dysregulated; however, their roles and regulation in disease progression are not well defined. Here we discuss the dynamic regulation of ER-related protein disposal pathways in chronic liver disease and cell-type specific roles, as well as potentially targetable mechanisms for treatment of chronic liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline C Duwaerts
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Jessica L Maiers
- Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
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