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Valente LC, Bacil GP, Riechelmann-Casarin L, Barbosa GC, Barbisan LF, Romualdo GR. Exploring in vitro modeling in hepatocarcinogenesis research: morphological and molecular features and similarities to the corresponding human disease. Life Sci 2024; 351:122781. [PMID: 38848937 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2024.122781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2024] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
The hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) features a remarkable epidemiological burden, ranking as the third most lethal cancer worldwide. As the HCC-related molecular and cellular complexity unfolds as the disease progresses, the use of a myriad of in vitro models available is mandatory in translational preclinical research setups. In this review paper, we will compile cutting-edge information on the in vitro bioassays for HCC research, (A) emphasizing their morphological and molecular parallels with human HCC; (B) delineating the advantages and limitations of their application; and (C) offering perspectives on their prospective applications. While bidimensional (2D) (co) culture setups provide a rapid low-cost strategy for metabolism and drug screening investigations, tridimensional (3D) (co) culture bioassays - including patient-derived protocols as organoids and precision cut slices - surpass some of the 2D strategies limitations, mimicking the complex microarchitecture and cellular and non-cellular microenvironment observed in human HCC. 3D models have become invaluable tools to unveil HCC pathophysiology and targeted therapy. In both setups, the recapitulation of HCC in different etiologies/backgrounds (i.e., viral, fibrosis, and fatty liver) may be considered as a fundamental guide for obtaining translational findings. Therefore, a "multimodel" approach - encompassing the advantages of different in vitro bioassays - is encouraged to circumvent "model-biased" outcomes in preclinical HCC research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leticia Cardoso Valente
- São Paulo State University (UNESP), Medical School, Botucatu, Experimental Research Unit (UNIPEX), Brazil
| | - Gabriel Prata Bacil
- São Paulo State University (UNESP), Institute of Biosciences, Botucatu, Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Brazil
| | - Luana Riechelmann-Casarin
- São Paulo State University (UNESP), Medical School, Botucatu, Experimental Research Unit (UNIPEX), Brazil
| | | | - Luís Fernando Barbisan
- São Paulo State University (UNESP), Institute of Biosciences, Botucatu, Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Brazil
| | - Guilherme Ribeiro Romualdo
- São Paulo State University (UNESP), Medical School, Botucatu, Experimental Research Unit (UNIPEX), Brazil.
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2
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Mickols E, Meyer A, Handin N, Stüwe M, Eriksson J, Rudfeldt J, Blom K, Fryknäs M, Sellin ME, Lauschke VM, Karlgren M, Artursson P. OCT1 (SLC22A1) transporter kinetics and regulation in primary human hepatocyte 3D spheroids. Sci Rep 2024; 14:17334. [PMID: 39068198 PMCID: PMC11283471 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-67192-6] [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: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024] Open
Abstract
3D spheroids of primary human hepatocytes (3D PHH) retain a differentiated phenotype with largely conserved metabolic function and proteomic fingerprint over weeks in culture. As a result, 3D PHH are gaining importance as a model for mechanistic liver homeostasis studies and in vitro to in vivo extrapolation (IVIVE) in drug discovery. However, the kinetics and regulation of drug transporters have not yet been assessed in 3D PHH. Here, we used organic cation transporter 1 (OCT1/SLC22A1) as a model to study both transport kinetics and the long-term regulation of transporter activity via relevant signalling pathways. The kinetics of the OCT1 transporter was studied using the fluorescent model substrate 4-(4-(dimethylamino)styryl)-N-methylpyridinium (ASP+) and known OCT1 inhibitors in individual 3D PHH. For long-term studies, 3D PHH were treated with xenobiotics for seven days, after which protein expression and OCT1 function were assessed. Global proteomic analysis was used to track hepatic phenotypes as well as prototypical changes in other regulated proteins, such as P-glycoprotein and Cytochrome P450 3A4. ASP+ kinetics indicated a fully functional OCT1 transporter with a Km value of 14 ± 4.0µM as the mean from three donors. Co-incubation with known OCT1 inhibitors decreased the uptake of ASP+ in the 3D PHH spheroids by 35-52%. The long-term exposure studies showed that OCT1 is relatively stable upon activation of nuclear receptor signalling or exposure to compounds that could induce inflammation, steatosis or liver injury. Our results demonstrate that 3D PHH spheroids express physiologically relevant levels of fully active OCT1 and that its transporter kinetics can be accurately studied in the 3D PHH configuration. We also confirm that OCT1 remains stable and functional during the activation of key metabolic pathways that alter the expression and function of other drug transporters and drug-metabolizing enzymes. These results will expand the range of studies that can be performed using 3D PHH.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alina Meyer
- Department of Pharmacy, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Niklas Handin
- Department of Pharmacy, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Malin Stüwe
- Department of Pharmacy, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Jens Eriksson
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Jakob Rudfeldt
- Department of Medical Sciences, Division of Cancer Pharmacology and Computational Medicine, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Kristin Blom
- Department of Medical Sciences, Division of Cancer Pharmacology and Computational Medicine, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Mårten Fryknäs
- Department of Medical Sciences, Division of Cancer Pharmacology and Computational Medicine, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Mikael E Sellin
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Volker M Lauschke
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
- Dr Margarete Fischer-Bosch Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Stuttgart, Germany
- University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Centre of Molecular Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Maria Karlgren
- Department of Pharmacy, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Per Artursson
- Department of Pharmacy, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.
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Mahmoudi A, Butler AE, De Vincentis A, Jamialahmadi T, Sahebkar A. Microarray-based Detection of Critical Overexpressed Genes in the Progression of Hepatic Fibrosis in Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Protein-protein Interaction Network Analysis. Curr Med Chem 2024; 31:3631-3652. [PMID: 37194229 DOI: 10.2174/0929867330666230516123028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 03/26/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a prevalent cause of chronic liver disease and encompasses a broad spectrum of disorders, including simple steatosis, steatohepatitis, fibrosis, cirrhosis, and liver cancer. However, due to the global epidemic of NAFLD, where invasive liver biopsy is the gold standard for diagnosis, it is necessary to identify a more practical method for early NAFLD diagnosis with useful therapeutic targets; as such, molecular biomarkers could most readily serve these aims. To this end, we explored the hub genes and biological pathways in fibrosis progression in NAFLD patients. METHODS Raw data from microarray chips with GEO accession GSE49541 were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus database, and the R package (Affy and Limma) was applied to investigate differentially expressed genes (DEGs) involved in the progress of low- (mild 0-1 fibrosis score) to high- (severe 3-4 fibrosis score) fibrosis stage NAFLD patients. Subsequently, significant DEGs with pathway enrichment were analyzed, including gene ontology (GO), KEGG and Wikipathway. In order to then explore critical genes, the protein-protein interaction network (PPI) was established and visualized using the STRING database, with further analysis undertaken using Cytoscape and Gephi software. Survival analysis was undertaken to determine the overall survival of the hub genes in the progression of NAFLD to hepatocellular carcinoma. RESULTS A total of 311 significant genes were identified, with an expression of 278 being upregulated and 33 downregulated in the high vs. low group. Gene functional enrichment analysis of these significant genes demonstrated major involvement in extracellular matrix (ECM)-receptor interaction, protein digestion and absorption, and the AGE-RAGE signaling pathway. The PPI network was constructed with 196 nodes and 572 edges with PPI enrichment using a p-value < 1.0 e-16. Based on this cut-off, we identified 12 genes with the highest score in four centralities: Degree, Betweenness, Closeness, and Eigenvector. Those twelve hub genes were CD34, THY1, CFTR, COL3A1, COL1A1, COL1A2, SPP1, THBS1, THBS2, LUM, VCAN, and VWF. Four of these hub genes, namely CD34, VWF, SPP1, and VCAN, showed significant association with the development of hepatocellular carcinoma. CONCLUSION This PPI network analysis of DEGs identified critical hub genes involved in the progression of fibrosis and the biological pathways through which they exert their effects in NAFLD patients. Those 12 genes offer an excellent opportunity for further focused research to determine potential targets for therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Mahmoudi
- Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Nanotechnology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | | | - Antonio De Vincentis
- Unit of Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, Via Alvaro del Portillo 200, Rome 00128, Italy
| | - Tannaz Jamialahmadi
- Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- School of Medicine, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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Xie R, Pal V, Yu Y, Lu X, Gao M, Liang S, Huang M, Peng W, Ozbolat IT. A comprehensive review on 3D tissue models: Biofabrication technologies and preclinical applications. Biomaterials 2024; 304:122408. [PMID: 38041911 PMCID: PMC10843844 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2023.122408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/04/2023]
Abstract
The limitations of traditional two-dimensional (2D) cultures and animal testing, when it comes to precisely foreseeing the toxicity and clinical effectiveness of potential drug candidates, have resulted in a notable increase in the rate of failure during the process of drug discovery and development. Three-dimensional (3D) in-vitro models have arisen as substitute platforms with the capacity to accurately depict in-vivo conditions and increasing the predictivity of clinical effects and toxicity of drug candidates. It has been found that 3D models can accurately represent complex tissue structure of human body and can be used for a wide range of disease modeling purposes. Recently, substantial progress in biomedicine, materials and engineering have been made to fabricate various 3D in-vitro models, which have been exhibited better disease progression predictivity and drug effects than convention models, suggesting a promising direction in pharmaceutics. This comprehensive review highlights the recent developments in 3D in-vitro tissue models for preclinical applications including drug screening and disease modeling targeting multiple organs and tissues, like liver, bone, gastrointestinal tract, kidney, heart, brain, and cartilage. We discuss current strategies for fabricating 3D models for specific organs with their strengths and pitfalls. We expand future considerations for establishing a physiologically-relevant microenvironment for growing 3D models and also provide readers with a perspective on intellectual property, industry, and regulatory landscape.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renjian Xie
- Key Laboratory of Biomaterials and Biofabrication for Tissue Engineering in Jiangxi Province, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, JX, 341000, China; Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases, Ministry of Education, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, JX, China
| | - Vaibhav Pal
- Department of Chemistry, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA; The Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - Yanrong Yu
- School of Pharmaceutics, Nanchang University, Nanchang, JX, 330006, China
| | - Xiaolu Lu
- Key Laboratory of Biomaterials and Biofabrication for Tissue Engineering in Jiangxi Province, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, JX, 341000, China; Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases, Ministry of Education, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, JX, China
| | - Mengwei Gao
- School of Pharmaceutics, Nanchang University, Nanchang, JX, 330006, China
| | - Shijie Liang
- School of Pharmaceutics, Nanchang University, Nanchang, JX, 330006, China
| | - Miao Huang
- Key Laboratory of Biomaterials and Biofabrication for Tissue Engineering in Jiangxi Province, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, JX, 341000, China; Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases, Ministry of Education, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, JX, China
| | - Weijie Peng
- Key Laboratory of Biomaterials and Biofabrication for Tissue Engineering in Jiangxi Province, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, JX, 341000, China; Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases, Ministry of Education, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, JX, China; School of Pharmaceutics, Nanchang University, Nanchang, JX, 330006, China.
| | - Ibrahim T Ozbolat
- The Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA; Engineering Science and Mechanics Department, Penn State University, University Park, PA, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA; Materials Research Institute, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA; Department of Neurosurgery, Pennsylvania State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA; Penn State Cancer Institute, Penn State University, Hershey, PA, 17033, USA; Department of Medical Oncology, Cukurova University, Adana, 01130, Turkey; Biotechnology Research and Application Center, Cukurova University, Adana, 01130, Turkey.
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Urzì O, Gasparro R, Costanzo E, De Luca A, Giavaresi G, Fontana S, Alessandro R. Three-Dimensional Cell Cultures: The Bridge between In Vitro and In Vivo Models. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12046. [PMID: 37569426 PMCID: PMC10419178 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241512046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Although historically, the traditional bidimensional in vitro cell system has been widely used in research, providing much fundamental information regarding cellular functions and signaling pathways as well as nuclear activities, the simplicity of this system does not fully reflect the heterogeneity and complexity of the in vivo systems. From this arises the need to use animals for experimental research and in vivo testing. Nevertheless, animal use in experimentation presents various aspects of complexity, such as ethical issues, which led Russell and Burch in 1959 to formulate the 3R (Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement) principle, underlying the urgent need to introduce non-animal-based methods in research. Considering this, three-dimensional (3D) models emerged in the scientific community as a bridge between in vitro and in vivo models, allowing for the achievement of cell differentiation and complexity while avoiding the use of animals in experimental research. The purpose of this review is to provide a general overview of the most common methods to establish 3D cell culture and to discuss their promising applications. Three-dimensional cell cultures have been employed as models to study both organ physiology and diseases; moreover, they represent a valuable tool for studying many aspects of cancer. Finally, the possibility of using 3D models for drug screening and regenerative medicine paves the way for the development of new therapeutic opportunities for many diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ornella Urzì
- Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics (Bi.N.D), Section of Biology and Genetics, University of Palermo, 90133 Palermo, Italy; (O.U.); (R.G.); (E.C.); (R.A.)
| | - Roberta Gasparro
- Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics (Bi.N.D), Section of Biology and Genetics, University of Palermo, 90133 Palermo, Italy; (O.U.); (R.G.); (E.C.); (R.A.)
| | - Elisa Costanzo
- Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics (Bi.N.D), Section of Biology and Genetics, University of Palermo, 90133 Palermo, Italy; (O.U.); (R.G.); (E.C.); (R.A.)
| | - Angela De Luca
- IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, SC Scienze e Tecnologie Chirurgiche, 40136 Bologna, Italy; (A.D.L.); (G.G.)
| | - Gianluca Giavaresi
- IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, SC Scienze e Tecnologie Chirurgiche, 40136 Bologna, Italy; (A.D.L.); (G.G.)
| | - Simona Fontana
- Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics (Bi.N.D), Section of Biology and Genetics, University of Palermo, 90133 Palermo, Italy; (O.U.); (R.G.); (E.C.); (R.A.)
| | - Riccardo Alessandro
- Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics (Bi.N.D), Section of Biology and Genetics, University of Palermo, 90133 Palermo, Italy; (O.U.); (R.G.); (E.C.); (R.A.)
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Xiang W, Yang Y, Weng L, Ye Z, Ding P, Li H, Sun J, Zeng C. Hyperhomocysteinemia activates NLRP3 inflammasome to cause hepatic steatosis and insulin resistance via MDM2-mediated ubiquitination of HSF1. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 118:110085. [PMID: 37018978 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.110085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2022] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023]
Abstract
Hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy) is associated with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and insulin resistance (IR). However, the underlying mechanism is still unknown. Recent studies have demonstrated that NLRP3 inflammasome activation plays a vital role in NAFLD and IR. Our study aimed to explore whether NLRP3 inflammasome contributed to HHcy-induced NAFLD and IR as well as dissected the underlying mechanism. C57BL/6 mice were fed a high-methionine diet (HMD) for 8 weeks to establish the HHcy mouse model. Compared with a chow diet, HMD induced hepatic steatosis (HS) and IR as well as activation of hepatic NLRP3 inflammasome. Moreover, HHcy-induced NAFLD and IR characterization disclosed that NLRP3 inflammasome activation occurred in liver tissue of HMD-fed mice, but was very marginal in either NLRP3-/- or Caspase-1-/- mice. Mechanistically, high levels of homocysteine (Hcy) up-regulated the expression of mouse double minute 2 homolog (MDM2), which directly ubiquitinates heat shock transcription factor 1 (HSF1) and consequently activated hepatic NLRP3 inflammasome in vivo and in vitro. In addition, in vitro experiments showed P300-mediated HSF1 acetylation at K298 hindered MDM2-mediated ubiquitination of HSF1 at K372, which plays important role in determining the HSF1 level. Importantly, either inhibition of MDM2 by JNJ-165 or activation of HSF1 by HSF1A reversed HMD-induced hepatic NLRP3 inflammasome, and consequently alleviated HS and IR in mice. This study demonstrates that NLRP3 inflammasome activation contributes to HHcy-induced NAFLD and IR, and further identified that HSF1 as a new substrate of MDM2 and its decrease on MDM2-mediated ubiquitination at K372 modulates NLRP3 inflammasome activation. These findings may provide novel therapeutic strategies aimed at halting HS or IR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjing Xiang
- School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Yang Yang
- Department of Pharmacy, Zhuhai People's Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University), Zhuhai, 519000, China
| | - Liangkun Weng
- Center for Drug Research and Development, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Zhiming Ye
- Center for Drug Research and Development, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Ping Ding
- Center for Drug Research and Development, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Huayu Li
- School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Jia Sun
- School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Cheng Zeng
- Center for Drug Research and Development, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China; Key Specialty of Clinical Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, 510699, China; Guangdong Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Bioactive Substances, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, 510006, China.
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Dos Santos Rodrigues B, Leroy K, Mihajlovic M, De Boever S, Vanbellingen S, Cogliati B, Aerts JL, Vinken M. Evaluation of functional candidate biomarkers of non-genotoxic hepatocarcinogenicity in human liver spheroid co-cultures. Arch Toxicol 2023; 97:1739-1751. [PMID: 36941454 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-023-03486-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/22/2023]
Abstract
Validated in vitro assays for testing non-genotoxic carcinogenic potential of chemicals are currently not available. Consequently, the two-year rodent bioassay remains the gold standard method for the identification of these chemicals. Transcriptomic and proteomic analyses have provided a comprehensive understanding of the non-genotoxic carcinogenic processes, however, functional changes induced by effects at transcriptional and translational levels have not been addressed. The present study was set up to test a number of proposed in vitro biomarkers of non-genotoxic hepatocarcinogenicity at the functional level using a translational 3-dimensional model. Spheroid cultures of human hepatocytes and stellate cells were exposed to 5 genotoxic carcinogenic, 5 non-genotoxic carcinogenic, and 5 non-carcinogenic chemical compounds and assessed for oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, endoplasmic reticulum stress, apoptosis, and inflammation. The spheroid model could capture many of these events triggered by the genotoxic carcinogenic chemicals, particularly aflatoxin B1 and hydroquinone. Nonetheless, no clear distinction could be made between genotoxic and non-genotoxic hepatocarcinogenicity. Therefore, spheroid cultures of human liver cells may be appropriate in vitro tools for mechanistic investigation of chemical-induced hepatocarcinogenicity, however, these mechanisms and their read-outs do not seem to be eligible biomarkers for detecting non-genotoxic carcinogenic chemicals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruna Dos Santos Rodrigues
- Entity of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Kaat Leroy
- Entity of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Milos Mihajlovic
- Entity of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Sybren De Boever
- Entity of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Sarah Vanbellingen
- Entity of Neuro-Aging and Viro-Immunotherapy, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Bruno Cogliati
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Department of Pathology, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Joeri L Aerts
- Entity of Neuro-Aging and Viro-Immunotherapy, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Mathieu Vinken
- Entity of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090, Brussels, Belgium.
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Zhang Q, Jia R, Chen M, Wang J, Huang F, Shi M, Sheng H, Xu L. Antagonizing EZH2 combined with vitamin D3 exerts a synergistic role in anti-fibrosis through bidirectional effects on hepatocytes and hepatic stellate cells. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 38:441-450. [PMID: 36652457 DOI: 10.1111/jgh.16126] [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: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Whether vitamin D3 (VD3) supplementation is associated with improved liver fibrosis is controversial. METHODS Liver fibrosis models were treated with VD3, active VD (1,25-OH2 Vitamin D3), or collaboration with GSK126 (Ezh2 inhibitor), respectively. Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) were co-cultured with hepatocytes and then stimulated with TGF-β. Autophagy of hepatocytes was determined after the intervention of 1,25-OH2 Vitamin D3 and GSK126. Also, the active status of HSCs and the mechanism with 1,25-OH2 Vitamin D3 and GSK126 intervention were detected. RESULTS 1,25-OH2 Vitamin D3, but not VD3, is involved in anti-fibrosis and partially improves liver function, which might be associated with related enzymes and receptors (especially CYP2R1), leading to decreased of its biotransformation. GSK126 plays a synergistic role in anti-fibrosis. The co-culture system showed increased hepatocyte autophagy after HSCs activation. Supplementation with 1,25-OH2 Vitamin D3 or combined GSK126 reduced these effects. Further studies showed that 1,25-OH2 Vitamin D3 promoted H3K27 methylation of DKK1 promoter through VDR/Ezh2 due to the weakening for HSCs inhibitory signal. CONCLUSIONS VD3 bioactive form 1,25-OH2 Vitamin D3 is responsible for the anti-fibrosis, which might have bidirectional effects on HSCs by regulating histone modification. The inhibitor of Ezh2 plays a synergistic role in this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinghui Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Kunshan First People's Hospital, Jiangsu University, Kunshan, China
| | - Rongrong Jia
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Minjie Chen
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jianjun Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Kunshan First People's Hospital, Jiangsu University, Kunshan, China
| | - Feng Huang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Kunshan First People's Hospital, Jiangsu University, Kunshan, China
| | - Min Shi
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Huiming Sheng
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ling Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Epidemiologic, Genetic, Pathogenic, Metabolic, Epigenetic Aspects Involved in NASH-HCC: Current Therapeutic Strategies. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 15:cancers15010023. [PMID: PMID: 36612019 PMCID: PMC9818030 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15010023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary liver cancer and is the sixth most frequent cancer in the world, being the third cause of cancer-related deaths. Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is characterized by fatty infiltration, oxidative stress and necroinflammation of the liver, with or without fibrosis, which can progress to advanced liver fibrosis, cirrhosis and HCC. Obesity, metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, and diabetes exacerbates the course of NASH, which elevate the risk of HCC. The growing prevalence of obesity are related with increasing incidence of NASH, which may play a growing role in HCC epidemiology worldwide. In addition, HCC initiation and progression is driven by reprogramming of metabolism, which indicates growing appreciation of metabolism in the pathogenesis of this disease. Although no specific preventive pharmacological treatments have recommended for NASH, dietary restriction and exercise are recommended. This review focuses on the molecular connections between HCC and NASH, including genetic and risk factors, highlighting the metabolic reprogramming and aberrant epigenetic alterations in the development of HCC in NASH. Current therapeutic aspects of NASH/HCC are also reviewed.
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Abstract
Metabolic diseases, including obesity, diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular disease, are a major threat to health in the modern world, but efforts to understand the underlying mechanisms and develop rational treatments are limited by the lack of appropriate human model systems. Notably, advances in stem cell and organoid technology allow the generation of cellular models that replicate the histological, molecular and physiological properties of human organs. Combined with marked improvements in gene editing tools, human stem cells and organoids provide unprecedented systems for studying mechanisms of metabolic diseases. Here, we review progress made over the past decade in the generation and use of stem cell-derived metabolic cell types and organoids in metabolic disease research, especially obesity and liver diseases. In particular, we discuss the limitations of animal models and the advantages of stem cells and organoids, including their application to metabolic diseases. We also discuss mechanisms of drug action, understanding the efficacy and toxicity of existing therapies, screening for new treatments and pursuing personalized therapies. We highlight the potential of combining stem cell-derived organoids with gene editing and functional genomics to revolutionize the approach to finding treatments for metabolic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenxiang Hu
- Department of Basic Research, Guangzhou Laboratory, Guangdong, China.
- Institute for Diabetes, Obesity, and Metabolism, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | - Mitchell A Lazar
- Institute for Diabetes, Obesity, and Metabolism, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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Liu ZY, Zhang DY, Lin XH, Sun JL, Abuduwaili W, Zhang GC, Xu RC, Wang F, Yu XN, Shi X, Deng B, Dong L, Weng SQ, Zhu JM, Shen XZ, Liu TT. Nalidixic acid potentiates the antitumor activity in sorafenib-resistant hepatocellular carcinoma via the tumor immune microenvironment analysis. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:952482. [PMID: 36071851 PMCID: PMC9441713 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.952482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Sorafenib resistance is often developed and impedes the benefits of clinical therapy in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients. However, the relationship between sorafenib resistance and tumor immune environment and adjuvant drugs for sorafenib-resistant HCC are not systemically identified. This study first analyzed the expression profiles of sorafenib-resistant HCC cells to explore immune cell infiltration levels and differentially expressed immune-related genes (DEIRGs). The prognostic value of DEIRGs was analyzed using Cox regression and Kaplan–Meier analysis based on The Cancer Genome Atlas. The primary immune cells infiltrated in sorafenib-resistant HCC mice were explored using flow cytometry (FCM). Finally, small-molecule drugs for sorafenib-resistant HCC treatment were screened and validated by experiments. The CIBERSORT algorithm and mice model showed that macrophages and neutrophils are highly infiltrated, while CD8+ T cells are downregulated in sorafenib-resistant HCC. Totally, 34 DEIRGs were obtained from sorafenib-resistant and control groups, which were highly enriched in immune-associated biological processes and pathways. NR6A1, CXCL5, C3, and TGFB1 were further identified as prognostic markers for HCC patients. Finally, nalidixic acid was identified as a promising antagonist for sorafenib-resistant HCC treatment. Collectively, our study reveals the tumor immune microenvironment changes and explores a promising adjuvant drug to overcome sorafenib resistance in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi-Yong Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Institute of Liver Disease, Shanghai, China
| | - Dan-Ying Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Institute of Liver Disease, Shanghai, China
| | - Xia-Hui Lin
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Institute of Liver Disease, Shanghai, China
| | - Jia-Lei Sun
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Institute of Liver Disease, Shanghai, China
| | - Weinire Abuduwaili
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Institute of Liver Disease, Shanghai, China
| | - Guang-Cong Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Institute of Liver Disease, Shanghai, China
| | - Ru-Chen Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Institute of Liver Disease, Shanghai, China
| | - Fu Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Institute of Liver Disease, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiang-Nan Yu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Institute of Liver Disease, Shanghai, China
| | - Xuan Shi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Institute of Liver Disease, Shanghai, China
| | - Bin Deng
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Ling Dong
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Institute of Liver Disease, Shanghai, China
| | - Shu-Qiang Weng
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Institute of Liver Disease, Shanghai, China
| | - Ji-Min Zhu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Institute of Liver Disease, Shanghai, China
| | - Xi-Zhong Shen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Institute of Liver Disease, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology, Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Xi-Zhong Shen, ; Tao-Tao Liu,
| | - Tao-Tao Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Institute of Liver Disease, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Xi-Zhong Shen, ; Tao-Tao Liu,
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Ramos MJ, Bandiera L, Menolascina F, Fallowfield JA. In vitro models for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: Emerging platforms and their applications. iScience 2022; 25:103549. [PMID: 34977507 PMCID: PMC8689151 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2021.103549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) represents a global healthcare challenge, affecting 1 in 4 adults, and death rates are predicted to rise inexorably. The progressive form of NAFLD, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), can lead to fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. However, no medical treatments are licensed for NAFLD-NASH. Identifying efficacious therapies has been hindered by the complexity of disease pathogenesis, a paucity of predictive preclinical models and inadequate validation of pharmacological targets in humans. The development of clinically relevant in vitro models of the disease will pave the way to overcome these challenges. Currently, the combined application of emerging technologies (e.g., organ-on-a-chip/microphysiological systems) and control engineering approaches promises to unravel NAFLD biology and deliver tractable treatment candidates. In this review, we will describe advances in preclinical models for NAFLD-NASH, the recent introduction of novel technologies in this space, and their importance for drug discovery endeavors in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Jimenez Ramos
- Centre for Inflammation Research, The University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - Lucia Bandiera
- Institute for Bioengineering, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3BF, UK.,Synthsys - Centre for Synthetic and Systems Biology, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3BF, UK
| | - Filippo Menolascina
- Institute for Bioengineering, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3BF, UK.,Synthsys - Centre for Synthetic and Systems Biology, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3BF, UK
| | - Jonathan Andrew Fallowfield
- Centre for Inflammation Research, The University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK
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13
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Ramos MJ, Bandiera L, Menolascina F, Fallowfield JA. In vitro models for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: Emerging platforms and their applications. iScience 2022; 25:103549. [PMID: 34977507 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) represents a global healthcare challenge, affecting 1 in 4 adults, and death rates are predicted to rise inexorably. The progressive form of NAFLD, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), can lead to fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. However, no medical treatments are licensed for NAFLD-NASH. Identifying efficacious therapies has been hindered by the complexity of disease pathogenesis, a paucity of predictive preclinical models and inadequate validation of pharmacological targets in humans. The development of clinically relevant in vitro models of the disease will pave the way to overcome these challenges. Currently, the combined application of emerging technologies (e.g., organ-on-a-chip/microphysiological systems) and control engineering approaches promises to unravel NAFLD biology and deliver tractable treatment candidates. In this review, we will describe advances in preclinical models for NAFLD-NASH, the recent introduction of novel technologies in this space, and their importance for drug discovery endeavors in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Jimenez Ramos
- Centre for Inflammation Research, The University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - Lucia Bandiera
- Institute for Bioengineering, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3BF, UK
- Synthsys - Centre for Synthetic and Systems Biology, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3BF, UK
| | - Filippo Menolascina
- Institute for Bioengineering, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3BF, UK
- Synthsys - Centre for Synthetic and Systems Biology, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3BF, UK
| | - Jonathan Andrew Fallowfield
- Centre for Inflammation Research, The University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK
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Tabernilla A, dos Santos Rodrigues B, Pieters A, Caufriez A, Leroy K, Van Campenhout R, Cooreman A, Gomes AR, Arnesdotter E, Gijbels E, Vinken M. In Vitro Liver Toxicity Testing of Chemicals: A Pragmatic Approach. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:5038. [PMID: 34068678 PMCID: PMC8126138 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22095038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Revised: 05/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The liver is among the most frequently targeted organs by noxious chemicals of diverse nature. Liver toxicity testing using laboratory animals not only raises serious ethical questions, but is also rather poorly predictive of human safety towards chemicals. Increasing attention is, therefore, being paid to the development of non-animal and human-based testing schemes, which rely to a great extent on in vitro methodology. The present paper proposes a rationalized tiered in vitro testing strategy to detect liver toxicity triggered by chemicals, in which the first tier is focused on assessing general cytotoxicity, while the second tier is aimed at identifying liver-specific toxicity as such. A state-of-the-art overview is provided of the most commonly used in vitro assays that can be used in both tiers. Advantages and disadvantages of each assay as well as overall practical considerations are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Mathieu Vinken
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (A.T.); (B.d.S.R.); (A.P.); (A.C.); (K.L.); (R.V.C.); (A.C.); (A.R.G.); (E.A.); (E.G.)
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15
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Ingelman-Sundberg M, Lauschke VM. 3D human liver spheroids for translational pharmacology and toxicology. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol 2021; 130 Suppl 1:5-15. [PMID: 33872466 DOI: 10.1111/bcpt.13587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Drug development is a failure-prone endeavour, and more than 85% of drugs fail during clinical development, showcasing that current preclinical systems for compound selection are clearly inadequate. Liver toxicity remains a major reason for safety failures. Furthermore, all efforts to develop pharmacological therapies for a variety of chronic liver diseases, such as non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and fibrosis, remain unsuccessful. Considering the time and expense of clinical trials, as well as the substantial burden on patients, new strategies are thus of paramount importance to increase clinical success rates. To this end, human liver spheroids are becoming increasingly utilized as they allow to preserve patient-specific phenotypes and functions for multiple weeks in culture. We here review the recent application of such systems for i) predictive and mechanistic analyses of drug hepatotoxicity, ii) the evaluation of hepatic disposition and metabolite formation of low clearance drugs and iii) the development of drugs for metabolic and infectious liver diseases, including NASH, fibrosis, malaria and viral hepatitis. We envision that with increasing dissemination, liver spheroids might become the new gold standard for such applications in translational pharmacology and toxicology.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Volker M Lauschke
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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