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Zhao J, Yue P, Mi N, Li M, Fu W, Zhang X, Gao L, Bai M, Tian L, Jiang N, Lu Y, Ma H, Dong C, Zhang Y, Zhang H, Zhang J, Ren Y, Suzuki A, Wong PF, Tanaka K, Rerknimitr R, Junger HH, Cheung TT, Melloul E, Demartines N, Leung JW, Yao J, Yuan J, Lin Y, Schlitt HJ, Meng W. Biliary fibrosis is an important but neglected pathological feature in hepatobiliary disorders: from molecular mechanisms to clinical implications. MEDICAL REVIEW (2021) 2024; 4:326-365. [PMID: 39135601 PMCID: PMC11317084 DOI: 10.1515/mr-2024-0029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024]
Abstract
Fibrosis resulting from pathological repair secondary to recurrent or persistent tissue damage often leads to organ failure and mortality. Biliary fibrosis is a crucial but easily neglected pathological feature in hepatobiliary disorders, which may promote the development and progression of benign and malignant biliary diseases through pathological healing mechanisms secondary to biliary tract injuries. Elucidating the etiology and pathogenesis of biliary fibrosis is beneficial to the prevention and treatment of biliary diseases. In this review, we emphasized the importance of biliary fibrosis in cholangiopathies and summarized the clinical manifestations, epidemiology, and aberrant cellular composition involving the biliary ductules, cholangiocytes, immune system, fibroblasts, and the microbiome. We also focused on pivotal signaling pathways and offered insights into ongoing clinical trials and proposing a strategic approach for managing biliary fibrosis-related cholangiopathies. This review will offer a comprehensive perspective on biliary fibrosis and provide an important reference for future mechanism research and innovative therapy to prevent or reverse fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinyu Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Ping Yue
- Department of General Surgery, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Ningning Mi
- Department of General Surgery, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Matu Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Wenkang Fu
- Department of General Surgery, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Xianzhuo Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Long Gao
- Department of General Surgery, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Mingzhen Bai
- Department of General Surgery, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Liang Tian
- Department of General Surgery, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Ningzu Jiang
- Department of General Surgery, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Yawen Lu
- Department of General Surgery, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Haidong Ma
- Department of General Surgery, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Chunlu Dong
- Department of General Surgery, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Yong Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Hengwei Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Jinduo Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Yanxian Ren
- Department of General Surgery, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Azumi Suzuki
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hamamatsu Medical Center, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Peng F. Wong
- Department of Vascular Surgery, The James Cook University Hospital, Middlesbrough, UK
| | - Kiyohito Tanaka
- Department of Gastroenterology, Kyoto Second Red Cross Hospital, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Rungsun Rerknimitr
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn, Bangkok, Thailand
- Excellence Center for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Henrik H. Junger
- Department of Surgery, University Medical Center Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Tan T. Cheung
- Department of Surgery, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Emmanuel Melloul
- Department of Visceral Surgery, Lausanne University Hospital CHUV, University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Nicolas Demartines
- Department of Visceral Surgery, Lausanne University Hospital CHUV, University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Joseph W. Leung
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, UC Davis Medical Center and Sacramento VA Medical Center, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Jia Yao
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
- Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Regenerative Medicine of Gansu Province, Lanzhou, China
| | - Jinqiu Yuan
- Clinical Research Center, Big Data Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Yanyan Lin
- Department of General Surgery, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Hans J. Schlitt
- Department of Surgery, University Medical Center Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Wenbo Meng
- Department of General Surgery, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
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Medina Pizaño MY, Loera Arias MDJ, Montes de Oca Luna R, Saucedo Cárdenas O, Ventura Juárez J, Muñoz Ortega MH. Neuroimmunomodulation of adrenoblockers during liver cirrhosis: modulation of hepatic stellate cell activity. Ann Med 2023; 55:543-557. [PMID: 36826975 PMCID: PMC9970206 DOI: 10.1080/07853890.2022.2164047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The sympathetic nervous system and the immune system are responsible for producing neurotransmitters and cytokines that interact by binding to receptors; due to this, there is communication between these systems. Liver immune cells and nerve fibres are systematically distributed in the liver, and the partial overlap of both patterns may favour interactions between certain elements. Dendritic cells are attached to fibroblasts, and nerve fibres are connected via the dendritic cell-fibroblast complex. Receptors for most neuroactive substances, such as catecholamines, have been discovered on dendritic cells. The sympathetic nervous system regulates hepatic fibrosis through sympathetic fibres and adrenaline from the adrenal glands through the blood. When there is liver damage, the sympathetic nervous system is activated locally and systemically through proinflammatory cytokines that induce the production of epinephrine and norepinephrine. These neurotransmitters bind to cells through α-adrenergic receptors, triggering a cellular response that secretes inflammatory factors that stimulate and activate hepatic stellate cells. Hepatic stellate cells are key in the fibrotic process. They initiate the overproduction of extracellular matrix components in an active state that progresses from fibrosis to liver cirrhosis. It has also been shown that they can be directly activated by norepinephrine. Alpha and beta adrenoblockers, such as carvedilol, prazosin, and doxazosin, have recently been used to reverse CCl4-induced liver cirrhosis in rodent and murine models.KEY MESSAGESNeurotransmitters from the sympathetic nervous system activate and increase the proliferation of hepatic stellate cells.Hepatic fibrosis and cirrhosis treatment might depend on neurotransmitter and hepatic nervous system regulation.Strategies to reduce hepatic stellate cell activation and fibrosis are based on experimentation with α-adrenoblockers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Odila Saucedo Cárdenas
- Histology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Autonomous University of Nuevo León, Monterrey, México
| | - Javier Ventura Juárez
- Department of Morphology, Autonomous University of Aguascalientes, Aguascalientes, México
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McVicker BL, Simpson RL, Hamel FG, Bennett RG. Reduction in Obesity-Related Hepatic Fibrosis by SR1664. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:1287. [PMID: 37886997 PMCID: PMC10604321 DOI: 10.3390/biology12101287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
Peroxisome-proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) is a transcription factor with adipogenic, insulin-sensitizing, and antifibrotic properties. Strong PPARγ activators, such as the thiazolidinediones, can induce unwanted effects such as edema, weight gain, and bone loss, and therefore selective modulators of PPARγ are in development. We previously reported that one selective PPARγ modulator, SR1664, reduced toxin-induced hepatic fibrosis and the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), the main collagen-producing liver cell in fibrosis. In this study, we used a high fat and high carbohydrate (HFHC) model of hepatic steatosis and fibrosis to determine the effect of SR1664. Mice were placed on a standard chow or HFHC diet for 16 weeks, with SR1664 or control treatment for the final 4 weeks. SR1664 did not alter weight gain or fasting insulin or glucose levels. The size of lipid droplets in the HFHC group was reduced by SR1664, but there was no effect on total liver triglyceride levels. The degree of fibrosis was significantly reduced by SR1664 in mice on the HFHC diet, and this was accompanied by a decrease in activated HSC. In summary, SR1664 improved insulin sensitivity and reduced fibrosis in the HFHC diet, suggesting selective PPARγ modulation is effective in obesity-related liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benita L. McVicker
- Research Service, Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE 68105, USA; (B.L.M.); (F.G.H.)
- Departments of Internal Medicine and Pharmacology & Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Ronda L. Simpson
- Research Service, Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE 68105, USA; (B.L.M.); (F.G.H.)
- Departments of Internal Medicine and Pharmacology & Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Frederick G. Hamel
- Research Service, Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE 68105, USA; (B.L.M.); (F.G.H.)
- Departments of Internal Medicine and Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Robert G. Bennett
- Research Service, Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE 68105, USA; (B.L.M.); (F.G.H.)
- Departments of Internal Medicine and Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
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Moreno-Lanceta A, Medrano-Bosch M, Simón-Codina B, Barber-González M, Jiménez W, Melgar-Lesmes P. PPAR-γ Agonist GW1929 Targeted to Macrophages with Dendrimer-Graphene Nanostars Reduces Liver Fibrosis and Inflammation. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15051452. [PMID: 37242695 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15051452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Macrophages play essential roles during the progression of chronic liver disease. They actively participate in the response to liver damage and in the balance between fibrogenesis and regression. The activation of the PPARγ nuclear receptor in macrophages has traditionally been associated with an anti-inflammatory phenotype. However, there are no PPARγ agonists with high selectivity for macrophages, and the use of full agonists is generally discouraged due to severe side effects. We designed dendrimer-graphene nanostars linked to a low dose of the GW1929 PPARγ agonist (DGNS-GW) for the selective activation of PPARγ in macrophages in fibrotic livers. DGNS-GW preferentially accumulated in inflammatory macrophages in vitro and attenuated macrophage pro-inflammatory phenotype. The treatment with DGNS-GW in fibrotic mice efficiently activated liver PPARγ signaling and promoted a macrophage switch from pro-inflammatory M1 to anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype. The reduction of hepatic inflammation was associated with a significant reduction in hepatic fibrosis but did not alter liver function or hepatic stellate cell activation. The therapeutic antifibrotic utility of DGNS-GW was attributed to an increased expression of hepatic metalloproteinases that allowed extracellular matrix remodeling. In conclusion, the selective activation of PPARγ in hepatic macrophages with DGNS-GW significantly reduced hepatic inflammation and stimulated extracellular matrix remodeling in experimental liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alazne Moreno-Lanceta
- Department of Biomedicine, School of Medicine, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
- Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics Service, Hospital Clínic Universitari, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mireia Medrano-Bosch
- Department of Biomedicine, School of Medicine, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Blanca Simón-Codina
- Department of Biomedicine, School of Medicine, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Wladimiro Jiménez
- Department of Biomedicine, School of Medicine, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
- Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics Service, Hospital Clínic Universitari, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Pedro Melgar-Lesmes
- Department of Biomedicine, School of Medicine, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
- Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics Service, Hospital Clínic Universitari, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), 08036 Barcelona, Spain
- Institute for Medical Engineering and Science, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
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5
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Femtosecond laser attenuates oxidative stress, inflammation, and liver fibrosis in rats: Possible role of PPARγ and Nrf2/HO-1 signaling. Life Sci 2022; 307:120877. [PMID: 35963297 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2022.120877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Revised: 07/31/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is the excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins that occurs in chronic liver injury. Inflammation and oxidative stress play a key role in fibrogenesis which can develop into cirrhosis and carcinoma. Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) has promising therapeutic effects against fibrogenesis; however, the specific underlying mechanism is not fully elucidated. We investigated the potential of LLLT to attenuate carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver fibrosis in rats, focusing on oxidative injury, inflammatory response, and the possible role of PPARγ and Nrf2/HO-1 signaling. Rats were given CCl4 and exposed to LLLT twice/week for 6 weeks and blood and liver samples were collected for analysis. CCl4 caused liver injury and fibrosis manifested by hepatocyte injury, steatosis, inflammatory cell infiltration, and accumulation of collagen, elevated serum transaminases and bilirubin, and decreased albumin. ROS, MDA, NO, NF-κB p65, TNF-α, iNOS, TGF-β1, and IL-6 were increased in the liver of CCl4-administered rats. Exposure to LLLT ameliorated histopathological alterations, collagen deposition, and liver function markers, and downregulated hepatic α-SMA, collagen 1A1, and collagen 3A1. In Addition, LLLT decreased ROS, MDA, NO, NF-κB p65, TGF-β1, and pro-inflammatory mediators, and enhanced antioxidant defenses. These effects were associated with upregulated PPARγ, Nrf2, and HO-1, both gene and protein expression. In conclusion, LLLT attenuated liver fibrosis by suppressing ECM production and deposition, oxidative injury and inflammation, and upregulating PPARγ and Nrf2/HO-1 signaling.
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Wang FD, Zhou J, Chen EQ. Molecular Mechanisms and Potential New Therapeutic Drugs for Liver Fibrosis. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:787748. [PMID: 35222022 PMCID: PMC8874120 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.787748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is the pathological process of excessive extracellular matrix deposition after liver injury and is a precursor to cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). It is essentially a wound healing response to liver tissue damage. Numerous studies have shown that hepatic stellate cells play a critical role in this process, with various cells, cytokines, and signaling pathways engaged. Currently, the treatment targeting etiology is considered the most effective measure to prevent and treat liver fibrosis, but reversal fibrosis by elimination of the causative agent often occurs too slowly or too rarely to avoid life-threatening complications, especially in advanced fibrosis. Liver transplantation is the only treatment option in the end-stage, leaving us with an urgent need for new therapies. An in-depth understanding of the mechanisms of liver fibrosis could identify new targets for the treatment. Most of the drugs targeting critical cells and cytokines in the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis are still in pre-clinical trials and there are hardly any definitive anti-fibrotic chemical or biological drugs available for clinical use. In this review, we will summarize the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis, focusing on the role of key cells, associated mechanisms, and signaling pathways, and summarize various therapeutic measures or drugs that have been trialed in clinical practice or are in the research stage.
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Hwang S, Chung KW. Targeting fatty acid metabolism for fibrotic disorders. Arch Pharm Res 2021; 44:839-856. [PMID: 34664210 DOI: 10.1007/s12272-021-01352-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Fibrosis is defined by abnormal accumulation of extracellular matrix, which can affect virtually every organ system under diseased conditions. Fibrotic tissue remodeling often leads to organ dysfunction and is highly associated with increased morbidity and mortality. The disease burden caused by fibrosis is substantial, and the medical need for effective antifibrotic therapies is essential. Significant progress has been made in understanding the molecular mechanism and pathobiology of fibrosis, such as transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β)-mediated signaling pathways. However, owing to the complex and dynamic properties of fibrotic disorders, there are currently no therapeutic options that can prevent or reverse fibrosis. Recent studies have revealed that alterations in fatty acid metabolic processes are common mechanisms and core pathways that play a central role in different fibrotic disorders. Excessive lipid accumulation or defective fatty acid oxidation is associated with increased lipotoxicity, which directly contributes to the development of fibrosis. Genetic alterations or pharmacologic targeting of fatty acid metabolic processes have great potential for the inhibition of fibrosis development. Furthermore, mechanistic studies have revealed active interactions between altered metabolic processes and fibrosis development. Several well-known fibrotic factors change the lipid metabolic processes, while altered metabolic processes actively participate in fibrosis development. This review summarizes the recent evidence linking fatty acid metabolism and fibrosis, and provides new insights into the pathogenesis of fibrotic diseases for the development of drugs for fibrosis prevention and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seonghwan Hwang
- College of Pharmacy, Pusan National University, Busan, 46214, Republic of Korea
| | - Ki Wung Chung
- College of Pharmacy, Pusan National University, Busan, 46214, Republic of Korea.
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Li J, Guo C, Wu J. The Agonists of Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor-γ for Liver Fibrosis. DRUG DESIGN DEVELOPMENT AND THERAPY 2021; 15:2619-2628. [PMID: 34168433 PMCID: PMC8219117 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s310163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a common link in the transformation of acute and chronic liver diseases to cirrhosis. It is of great clinical significance to study the factors associated with the induction of liver fibrosis and elucidate the method of reversal. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are a class of nuclear transcription factors that can be activated by peroxisome proliferators. PPARs play an important role in fibrosis of various organs, especially the liver, by regulating downstream targeted pathways, such as TGF-β, MAPKs, and NF-κB p65. In recent years, the development and screening of PPAR-γ ligands have become a focus of research. The PPAR-γ ligands include synthetic hypolipidemic and antidiabetic drugs. In addition, microRNAs, lncRNAs, circRNAs and nano new drugs have attracted research interest. In this paper, the research progress of PPAR-γ in the pathogenesis and treatment of liver fibrosis was discussed based on the relevant literature in recent years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Putuo People's Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200060, People's Republic of China.,Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200072, People's Republic of China
| | - Chuanyong Guo
- Department of Gastroenterology, Putuo People's Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200060, People's Republic of China.,Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200072, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianye Wu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Putuo People's Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200060, People's Republic of China
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Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors in the pathogenesis and therapies of liver fibrosis. Pharmacol Ther 2020; 222:107791. [PMID: 33321113 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2020.107791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a dynamic wound-healing process associated with the deposition of extracellular matrix produced by myofibroblasts. HSCs activation, inflammation, oxidative stress, steatosis and aging play critical roles in the progression of liver fibrosis, which is correlated with the regulation of the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) pathway. As nuclear receptors, PPARs reduce inflammatory response, regulate lipid metabolism, and inhibit fibrogenesis in the liver associated with aging. Thus, PPAR ligands have been investigated as possible therapeutic agents. Mounting evidence indicated that some PPAR agonists could reverse steatohepatitis and liver fibrosis. Consequently, targeting PPARs might be a promising and novel therapeutic option against liver fibrosis. This review summarizes recent studies on the role of PPARs on the pathogenesis and treatment of liver fibrosis.
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Hu S, Bae M, Park YK, Lee JY. n-3 PUFAs inhibit TGFβ1-induced profibrogenic gene expression by ameliorating the repression of PPARγ in hepatic stellate cells. J Nutr Biochem 2020; 85:108452. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2020.108452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2019] [Revised: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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McVicker BL, Hamel FG, Simpson RL, Bennett RG. A Selective PPARγ Modulator Reduces Hepatic Fibrosis. BIOLOGY 2020; 9:biology9070151. [PMID: 32630819 PMCID: PMC7407562 DOI: 10.3390/biology9070151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2020] [Revised: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 06/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis is the accumulation of excess collagen as a result of chronic liver injury. If left unabated, hepatic fibrosis can lead to the disruption of the liver architecture, portal hypertension, and increased risk of progression to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. The thiazolidinedione class of antidiabetic drugs, through their target peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ), have protective effects against liver fibrosis, and can inhibit the profibrotic activity of hepatic stellate cells, the major collagen-producing liver cells. However, these drugs have been ineffective in the treatment of established fibrosis, possibly due to side effects such as increased weight and adiposity. Recently, selective PPARγ modulators that lack these side effects have been identified, but their role in treating fibrosis has not been studied. In this study, we tested the effectiveness of one of these selective modulators, SR1664, in the mouse carbon tetrachloride model of established hepatic fibrosis. Treatment with SR1664 reduced the total and type 1 collagen content without increasing body weight. The abundance of activated hepatic stellate cells was also significantly decreased. Finally, SR1664 inhibited the profibrotic phenotype of hepatic stellate cells. In summary, a selective PPARγ modulator was effective in the reduction of established hepatic fibrosis and the activated phenotype of hepatic stellate cells. This may represent a new treatment approach for hepatic fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benita L. McVicker
- Research Service, VA Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE 68105, USA; (B.L.M.); (F.G.H.); (R.L.S.)
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Frederick G. Hamel
- Research Service, VA Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE 68105, USA; (B.L.M.); (F.G.H.); (R.L.S.)
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Ronda L. Simpson
- Research Service, VA Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE 68105, USA; (B.L.M.); (F.G.H.); (R.L.S.)
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Robert G. Bennett
- Research Service, VA Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE 68105, USA; (B.L.M.); (F.G.H.); (R.L.S.)
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
- Correspondence:
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Alatas FS, Matsuura T, Pudjiadi AH, Wijaya S, Taguchi T. Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor Gamma Agonist Attenuates Liver Fibrosis by Several Fibrogenic Pathways in an Animal Model of Cholestatic Fibrosis. Pediatr Gastroenterol Hepatol Nutr 2020; 23:346-355. [PMID: 32704495 PMCID: PMC7354870 DOI: 10.5223/pghn.2020.23.4.346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2019] [Revised: 03/29/2020] [Accepted: 04/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-γ) has a key role in hepatic fibrogenesis by virtue of its effect on the hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). Although many studies have shown that PPAR-γ agonists inhibit liver fibrosis, the mechanism remains largely unclear, especially regarding the cross-talk between PPAR-γ and other potent fibrogenic factors. METHODS This experimental study involved 25 male Wistar rats. Twenty rats were subjected to bile duct ligation (BDL) to induce liver fibrosis, further divided into an untreated group (BDL; n=10) and a group treated with the PPAR-γ agonist thiazolidinedione (TZD), at 14 days post-operation (BDL+TZD; n=10). The remaining 5 rats had a sham operation (sham; n=5). The effect of PPAR-γ agonist on liver fibrosis was evaluated by histopathology, protein immunohistochemistry, and mRNA expression quantitative polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS Histology and immunostaining showed markedly reduced collagen deposition, bile duct proliferation, and HSCs in the BDL+TZD group compared to those in the BDL group (p<0.001). Similarly, significantly lower mRNA expression of collagen α-1(I), matrix metalloproteinase-2, platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-B chain, and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) were evident in the BDL+TZD group compared to those in the BDL group (p=0.0002, p<0.035, p<0.0001, and p=0.0123 respectively). Moreover, expression of the transforming growth factor beta1 (TGF-β1) was also downregulated in the BDL+TZD group (p=0.0087). CONCLUSION The PPAR-γ agonist inhibits HSC activation in vivo and attenuates liver fibrosis through several fibrogenic pathways. Potent fibrogenic factors such as PDGF, CTGF, and TGF-β1 were downregulated by the PPAR-γ agonist. Targeting PPAR-γ activity may be a potential strategy to control liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatima Safira Alatas
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Reproductive and Developmental Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan.,Department of Child Health, Faculty of Medicine Universitas Indonesia, Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Toshiharu Matsuura
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Reproductive and Developmental Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Antonius Hocky Pudjiadi
- Department of Child Health, Faculty of Medicine Universitas Indonesia, Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Stephanie Wijaya
- Department of Child Health, Faculty of Medicine Universitas Indonesia, Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Tomoaki Taguchi
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Reproductive and Developmental Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
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Geraniol protects against cyclophosphamide-induced hepatotoxicity in rats: Possible role of MAPK and PPAR-γ signaling pathways. Food Chem Toxicol 2020; 139:111251. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2020.111251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2019] [Revised: 02/17/2020] [Accepted: 03/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Umbelliferone Ameliorates CCl 4-Induced Liver Fibrosis in Rats by Upregulating PPARγ and Attenuating Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and TGF-β1/Smad3 Signaling. Inflammation 2019; 42:1103-1116. [PMID: 30741365 DOI: 10.1007/s10753-019-00973-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Umbelliferone (UMB) is a natural coumarin that has diverse biological activities. However, its potential to protect against liver fibrosis has not been reported yet. This study aimed to investigate the protective effect of UMB against carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver fibrosis in rats. Rats received CCl4 and UMB for 8 weeks and samples were collected for analyses. CCl4 induced a significant increase in serum levels of liver function markers and pro-inflammatory cytokines. Treatment with UMB significantly ameliorated liver function markers and pro-inflammatory cytokines and prevented CCl4-induced histological alterations. CCl4 promoted significant upregulation of α-smooth muscle actin (SMA), collagen I, collagen III, NF-κB p65, TGF-β1, and p-Smad3. Masson's trichrome staining revealed a significant fibrogenesis in CCl4-induced rats. Treatment with UMB suppressed TGF-β1/Smad3 signaling and downregulated α-SMA, collagen I, collagen III, and NF-κB p65. In addition, UMB diminished malondialdehyde and nitric oxide levels, boosted reduced glutathione and antioxidant enzymes, and upregulated the expression of PPARγ. In conclusion, our results demonstrated that UMB prevented CCl4-induced liver fibrosis by attenuating oxidative stress, inflammation, and TGF-β1/Smad3 signaling, and upregulating PPARγ. Therefore, UMB may be a promising candidate for preventing hepatic fibrogenesis, given that further research is needed to delineate the exact molecular mechanisms underlying its antifibrotic efficacy.
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15
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Treatments for Crohn's Disease-Associated Bowel Damage: A Systematic Review. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2019; 17:847-856. [PMID: 30012430 DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2018.06.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2018] [Revised: 06/25/2018] [Accepted: 06/26/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Despite significant advances in the treatment of Crohn's disease (CD), most patients still develop stricturing or penetrating complications that require surgical resections. We performed a systematic review of mechanisms and potential treatments for tissue damage lesions in CD patients. METHODS We searched the PubMed, MBASE, and Cochrane databases from January 1960 to July 2017 for full-length articles on CD, fibrosis, damage lesions, mesenchymal stem cells, and/or treatment. We also searched published conference abstracts and performed manual searches of all reference lists of relevant articles. RESULTS Mechanisms of intestinal damage in patients with CD include fibroblast proliferation and migration, activation of stellate cells, recruitment of intestinal or extra-intestinal fibroblast, and cell trans-differentiation. An altered balance of metalloproteinases and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases might contribute to fistula formation. Treatment approaches that reduce excessive transforming growth factor beta (TGFB) activation might be effective in treating established intestinal damage. Stem cell therapies have been effective in tissue damage lesions in CD. Particularly, randomized controlled trials have shown local injections of mesenchymal stem cells to heal perianal fistulas. CONCLUSION In a systematic review of mechanisms and treatments of bowel wall damage in patients with CD, we found a need to test drugs that reduce TGFB and increase healing of transmural damage lesions and to pursue research on local injection of mesenchymal stem cells.
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Chitosan Oligosaccharides Improve Glucolipid Metabolism Disorder in Liver by Suppression of Obesity-Related Inflammation and Restoration of Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor Gamma (PPARγ). Mar Drugs 2018; 16:md16110455. [PMID: 30463189 PMCID: PMC6265870 DOI: 10.3390/md16110455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2018] [Revised: 11/01/2018] [Accepted: 11/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Chitosan oligosaccharides (COS) display various biological activities. In this study, we aimed to explore the preventive effects of COS on glucolipid metabolism disorder using palmitic acid (PA)-induced HepG2 cells and high-fat diet (HFD)-fed C57BL/6J mice as experimental models in vitro and in vivo, respectively. The results showed that COS pretreatment for 12 h significantly ameliorated lipid accumulation in HepG2 cells exposed to PA for 24 h, accompanied by a reversing of the upregulated mRNA expression of proinflammatory cytokines (IL-6, MCP-1, TNF-α) and glucolipid metabolism-related regulators (SCD-1, ACC1, PCK1-α). In addition, COS treatment alleviated glucolipid metabolism disorder in mice fed with HFD for five months, including reduction in body weight and fasting glucose, restoration of intraperitoneal glucose tolerance, and suppression of overexpression of proinflammatory cytokines and glucolipid metabolism-related regulators. Furthermore, our study found that COS pretreatment significantly reversed the downregulation of PPARγ at transcriptional and translational levels in both PA-induced HepG2 cells and liver tissues of HFD-fed mice. In summary, the study suggests that COS can improve glucolipid metabolism disorder by suppressing inflammation and upregulating PPARγ expression. This indicates a novel application of COS in preventing and treating glucolipid metabolism-related diseases.
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Hesperidin protects against chemically induced hepatocarcinogenesis via modulation of Nrf2/ARE/HO-1, PPARγ and TGF-β1/Smad3 signaling, and amelioration of oxidative stress and inflammation. Chem Biol Interact 2017; 277:146-158. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2017.09.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2017] [Revised: 09/11/2017] [Accepted: 09/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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Abstract
Fibrosis is a major player in cardiovascular disease, both as a contributor to the development of disease, as well as a post-injury response that drives progression. Despite the identification of many mechanisms responsible for cardiovascular fibrosis, to date no treatments have emerged that have effectively reduced the excess deposition of extracellular matrix associated with fibrotic conditions. Novel treatments have recently been identified that hold promise as potential therapeutic agents for cardiovascular diseases associated with fibrosis, as well as other fibrotic conditions. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of emerging antifibrotic agents that have shown encouraging results in preclinical or early clinical studies, but have not yet been approved for use in human disease. One of these agents is bone morphogenetic protein-7 (BMP7), which has beneficial effects in multiple models of fibrotic disease. Another approach discussed involves altering the levels of micro-RNA (miR) species, including miR-29 and miR-101, which regulate the expression of fibrosis-related gene targets. Further, the antifibrotic potential of agonists of the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors will be discussed. Finally, evidence will be reviewed in support of the polypeptide hormone relaxin. Relaxin is long known for its extracellular remodeling properties in pregnancy, and is rapidly emerging as an effective antifibrotic agent in a number of organ systems. Moreover, relaxin has potent vascular and renal effects that make it a particularly attractive approach for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases. In each case, the mechanism of action and the applicability to various fibrotic diseases will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benita L McVicker
- Research Service, VA Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, OmahaNE, United States.,Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, OmahaNE, United States
| | - Robert G Bennett
- Research Service, VA Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, OmahaNE, United States.,The Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, OmahaNE, United States.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, OmahaNE, United States
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19
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Feng X, Yu W, Li X, Zhou F, Zhang W, Shen Q, Li J, Zhang C, Shen P. Apigenin, a modulator of PPARγ, attenuates HFD-induced NAFLD by regulating hepatocyte lipid metabolism and oxidative stress via Nrf2 activation. Biochem Pharmacol 2017; 136:136-149. [PMID: 28414138 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2017.04.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 145] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2017] [Accepted: 04/12/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Lipid metabolic disorders and oxidative stress in the liver are key steps in the progression of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which is a major risk factor for the development of metabolic syndrome. To date, no pharmacological treatment for this condition has been approved. Our previous study has found that the food-derived compound apigenin (Api) significantly attenuates obesity-induced metabolic syndrome by acting as a peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma modulator (PPARM). Herein, a high fat diet (HFD) induced NAFLD model was used to dig out whether Api had the effect on NAFLD. The results showed that Api had obvious effect in restraining NAFLD progression, including attenuating HFD induced lipid accumulation and oxidative stress in vivo. As a PPARM, although Api did significantly inhibit the expression of PPARγ target genes encoding the protein associated with lipid metabolism, it had no obvious activating effect on PPARγ. Interestingly, we found that Api promoted Nrf2 into the nucleus, thereby markedly activating Nrf2 to inhibit the lipid metabolism related genes and increase the oxidative stress related genes. Further Nrf2 knockdown/knockout and overexpression experiments showed that Api regulating PPARγ target genes was dependent on Nrf2 activation and the activation of Nrf2 counteracted the activation effect of PPARγ by Api. Importantly, we also found that Api might bind with Nrf2 via auto dock and ITC assay. Therefore, our results indicate that Api ameliorates NAFLD by a novel regulating mode of Nrf2 and PPARγ in inhibiting lipid metabolism and oxidative stress abnormity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiujing Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology and MOE Key Laboratory of Model Animal for Disease Study, Model Animal Research Center, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Wen Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology and MOE Key Laboratory of Model Animal for Disease Study, Model Animal Research Center, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Xinda Li
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology and MOE Key Laboratory of Model Animal for Disease Study, Model Animal Research Center, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Feifei Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology and MOE Key Laboratory of Model Animal for Disease Study, Model Animal Research Center, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Wenlong Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology and MOE Key Laboratory of Model Animal for Disease Study, Model Animal Research Center, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Qi Shen
- Key Lab of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Jianxin Li
- Key Lab of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Can Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China; Center of Drug Discovery, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China.
| | - Pingping Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology and MOE Key Laboratory of Model Animal for Disease Study, Model Animal Research Center, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China.
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Mahmoud AM, Hussein OE, Hozayen WG, Abd El-Twab SM. Methotrexate hepatotoxicity is associated with oxidative stress, and down-regulation of PPARγ and Nrf2: Protective effect of 18β-Glycyrrhetinic acid. Chem Biol Interact 2017; 270:59-72. [PMID: 28414158 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2017.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2017] [Revised: 04/02/2017] [Accepted: 04/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
18β-glycyrrhetinic acid (18β-GA) is a bioactive component of licorice with promising hepatoprotective activity. However, its protective mechanism on methotrexate (MTX) hepatotoxicity in not well defined. We investigated the hepatoprotective effect of 18β-GA, pointing to the role of peroxisome proliferator activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) and the redox-sensitive nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2). Wistar rats were orally administered 18β-GA (50 and 100 mg/kg) 7 days either before or after MTX injection. MTX induced significant increase in circulating liver function marker enzymes and bilirubin with concomitant declined albumin levels. Serum pro-inflammatory cytokines, and liver malondialdehyde and nitric oxide were significantly increased in MTX-induced rats. Treatment with 18β-GA significantly reduced serum enzymes of liver function, bilirubin and pro-inflammatory cytokines. 18β-GA attenuated MTX-induced oxidative stress and restored the antioxidant defenses. In addition, 18β-GA improved liver histological structure and decreased the expression of Bax whereas increased Bcl-2 expression. MTX-induced rats showed significant down-regulation of Nrf2, hemoxygenase-1 and PPARγ, an effect that was markedly reversed by 18β-GA supplemented either before or after MTX. In conclusion, 18β-GA protected against MTX-induced liver injury, possibly by activating Nrf2 and PPARγ, and subsequent attenuation of inflammation, oxidative stress and apoptosis. Therefore, 18β-GA can provide protection against MTX-induced hepatotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayman M Mahmoud
- Physiology Division, Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Beni-Suef University, Egypt.
| | - Omnia E Hussein
- Physiology Division, Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Beni-Suef University, Egypt
| | - Walaa G Hozayen
- Biochemistry Division, Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Beni-Suef University, Egypt; Biotechnology and Life Sciences Department, Faculty of Postgraduate Studies for Advanced Sciences (PSAS), Beni-Suef University, Egypt
| | - Sanaa M Abd El-Twab
- Physiology Division, Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Beni-Suef University, Egypt
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21
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Mahmoud AM, Germoush MO, Alotaibi MF, Hussein OE. Possible involvement of Nrf2 and PPARγ up-regulation in the protective effect of umbelliferone against cyclophosphamide-induced hepatotoxicity. Biomed Pharmacother 2017; 86:297-306. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2016.12.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2016] [Revised: 12/11/2016] [Accepted: 12/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
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22
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Curcumin Suppresses Intestinal Fibrosis by Inhibition of PPAR γ-Mediated Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2017; 2017:7876064. [PMID: 28203261 PMCID: PMC5292200 DOI: 10.1155/2017/7876064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2016] [Revised: 12/04/2016] [Accepted: 12/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Intestinal fibrotic stricture is a major complication of Crohn's disease (CD) and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is considered as an important contributor to the formation of intestinal fibrosis by increasing extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins. Curcumin, a compound derived from rhizomes of Curcuma, has been demonstrated with a potent antifibrotic effect. However, its effect on intestinal fibrosis and the potential mechanism is not completely understood. Here we found that curcumin pretreatment significantly represses TGF-β1-induced Smad pathway and decreases its downstream α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) gene expression in intestinal epithelial cells (IEC-6); in contrast, curcumin increases expression of E-cadherin and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) in IEC-6. Moreover, curcumin promotes nuclear translocation of PPARγ and the inhibitory effect of curcumin on EMT could be reversed by PPARγ antagonist GW9662. Consistently, in the rat model of intestinal fibrosis induced by 2,4,5-trinitrobenzene sulphonic acid (TNBS), oral curcumin attenuates intestinal fibrosis by increasing the expression of PPARγ and E-cadherin and decreasing the expression of α-SMA, FN, and CTGF in colon tissue. Collectively, these results indicated that curcumin is able to prevent EMT progress in intestinal fibrosis by PPARγ-mediated repression of TGF-β1/Smad pathway.
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Gamma-Glutamylcysteine Ethyl Ester Protects against Cyclophosphamide-Induced Liver Injury and Hematologic Alterations via Upregulation of PPAR γ and Attenuation of Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and Apoptosis. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2016; 2016:4016209. [PMID: 28074115 PMCID: PMC5198194 DOI: 10.1155/2016/4016209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2016] [Accepted: 11/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Gamma-glutamylcysteine ethyl ester (GCEE) is a precursor of glutathione (GSH) with promising hepatoprotective effects. This investigation aimed to evaluate the hepatoprotective effects of GCEE against cyclophosphamide- (CP-) induced toxicity, pointing to the possible role of peroxisome proliferator activated receptor gamma (PPARγ). Wistar rats were given GCEE two weeks prior to CP. Five days after CP administration, animals were sacrificed and samples were collected. Pretreatment with GCEE significantly alleviated CP-induced liver injury by reducing serum aminotransferases, increasing albumin, and preventing histopathological and hematological alterations. GCEE suppressed lipid peroxidation and nitric oxide production and restored GSH and enzymatic antioxidants in the liver, which were associated with downregulation of COX-2, iNOS, and NF-κB. In addition, CP administration significantly increased serum proinflammatory cytokines and the expression of liver caspase-3 and BAX, an effect that was reversed by GCEE. CP-induced rats showed significant downregulation of PPARγ which was markedly upregulated by GCEE treatment. These data demonstrated that pretreatment with GCEE protected against CP-induced hepatotoxicity, possibly by activating PPARγ, preventing GSH depletion, and attenuating oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis. Our findings point to the role of PPARγ and suggest that GCEE might be a promising agent for the prevention of CP-induced liver injury.
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Expression of pro-fibrotic and anti-fibrotic molecules in dimethylnitrosamine-induced hepatic fibrosis. Pathol Res Pract 2016; 213:58-65. [PMID: 27894619 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2016.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2016] [Revised: 09/27/2016] [Accepted: 11/08/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatic fibrosis is characterized by a progressive accumulation of fibrillar extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins, produced by activated myofibroblasts which are modulated by both profibrotic and antifibrotic factors. OBJECTIVE To evaluate in vivo the expression of pro-fibrotic molecules like avβ6 integrin, transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), Smad3, connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) and mammalian target of Rapamycin (mTOR), as well as anti-fibrotic peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPARγ) in an experimental model of chronic hepatitis-associated fibrosis induced by intraperitoneal administration of dimethylnitrosamine (DMN) in mice. METHODS Chronic hepatitis was induced in 12 Smad3 wild-type (WT) and 12 knock-out (KO) mice by intraperitoneal DMN administration. Histological, morphometric and immunohistochemical analyses using α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), collagen types I-III, TGF-β1, Smad3, avβ6 integrin, CTGF, mTOR and PPARγ antibodies were performed. RESULTS The liver of DMN-treated Smad3 WT mice showed a higher degree of hepatic accumulation of connective tissue compared to KO mice. The expression of α-SMA, collagen I-III and CTGF was increased in Smad3 WT compared to KO mice treated with DMN, associated with a concomitant up-regulation of avβ6, TGFβ, Smad3, and mTOR and a reduction in PPARγ expression. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest a possible interaction between pro-fibrotic and anti-fibrotic molecules in the development of hepatic fibrosis.
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Adenovirus-mediated expression of orphan nuclear receptor NR4A2 targeting hepatic stellate cell attenuates liver fibrosis in rats. Sci Rep 2016; 6:33593. [PMID: 27646469 PMCID: PMC5028713 DOI: 10.1038/srep33593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2016] [Accepted: 08/24/2016] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a wound-healing response characterized with the accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM). And hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are the principal cell source of ECM. NR4A2 (Nurr1) is a member of orphan nuclear receptor NR4A family and acts as transcription factor. It participates in regulating cell differentiation, proliferation and apoptosis. We previously demonstrated that NR4A2 expression in fibrotic liver reduced significantly compared with normal liver and NR4A2 knockout in HSCs promoted ECM production. In the present study we explored the role of NR4A2 on liver fibrosis. Studies in cultured HSCs demonstrated that NR4A2 over-expression suppressed the activation of HSCs, such as ECM production and invasion ability. Moreover cell cycle was arrested, cell apoptosis was promoted and cell signaling pathway was influenced. Adenovirus-mediated delivery of NR4A2 in rats ameliorated significantly dimethylnitrosamine (DMN) induced liver fibrosis. The In vivo experiments produced results consistent with in vitro experiments. Taken together these results demonstrate NR4A2 enhancement attenuates liver fibrosis via suppressing the activation of HSCs and NR4A2 may be an ideal target for anti-fibrotic therapy.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Intestinal fibrosis is mainly associated with Crohn's disease and is defined as a progressive and excessive deposition of extracellular matrix components. No specific antifibrotic therapies are available. In this study, we evaluate the antifibrotic effect of a novel 5-ASA analog able to activate the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ, named GED-0507-34 Levo. METHODS Colonic fibrosis was induced in 110 C57BL/6 mice by 3 cycles of 2.5% (wt/vol) dextran sulfate sodium administration for 6 weeks. The preventive effects of oral daily GED (30 mg · kg(-1) · d(-1)) administration were evaluated using a macroscopic and histological score and also through biological endpoints. Expression of main markers of myofibroblasts activation was determined in transforming growth factor (TGF-β)-stimulated intestinal fibroblasts and epithelial cells. RESULTS GED improved macroscopic and microscopic intestinal lesions in dextran sulfate sodium-treated animals and reduced the profibrotic gene expression of Acta2, COL1a1, and Fn1 by 1.48-folds (P < 0.05), 1.93-folds (P < 0.005), and 1.03-fold (P < 0.05), respectively. It reduced protein levels of main markers of fibrosis (α-SMA and Collagen I-II) and the main TGF-β/Smad pathway components. GED also decreased the interleukin-13 and connective tissue growth factor expression by 1.89-folds (P < 0.05) and 2.2-folds (P < 0.005), respectively. GED inhibited TGF-β-induced activation of both fibroblast and intestinal epithelial cell lines, by regulating mRNA expression of α-SMA and fibronectin, and restoring the TGF-β-induced loss of intestinal epithelial cell markers. GED treatment also reduced the TGF-β and ACTA1 expression in primary human intestinal fibroblasts from ulcerative colitis patients. CONCLUSIONS GED ameliorates intestinal fibrosis in dextran sulfate sodium-induced chronic colitis in mice and regulates major profibrotic cellular and molecular mechanisms.
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27
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Chen P, Li J, Huo Y, Lu J, Wan L, Li B, Gan R, Guo C. Orphan nuclear receptor NR4A2 inhibits hepatic stellate cell proliferation through MAPK pathway in liver fibrosis. PeerJ 2015; 3:e1518. [PMID: 26713258 PMCID: PMC4690364 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.1518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2015] [Accepted: 11/28/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) play a crucial role in liver fibrosis, which is a pathological process characterized by extracellular matrix accumulation. NR4A2 is a nuclear receptor belonging to the NR4A subfamily and vital in regulating cell growth, metabolism, inflammation and other biological functions. However, its role in HSCs is unclear. We analyzed NR4A2 expression in fibrotic liver and stimulated HSCs compared with control group and studied the influence on cell proliferation, cell cycle, cell apoptosis and MAPK pathway after NR4A2 knockdown. NR4A2 expression was examined by real-time polymerase chain reaction, Western blotting, immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence analyses. NR4A2 expression was significantly lower in fibrotic liver tissues and PDGF BB or TGF-β stimulated HSCs compared with control group. After NR4A2 knockdown α-smooth muscle actin and Col1 expression increased. In addition, NR4A2 silencing led to the promotion of cell proliferation, increase of cell percentage in S phase and reduced phosphorylation of ERK1/2, P38 and JNK in HSCs. These results indicate that NR4A2 can inhibit HSC proliferation through MAPK pathway and decrease extracellular matrix in liver fibrogenesis. NR4A2 may be a promising therapeutic target for liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengguo Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital , Shanghai , China ; Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine , Shanghai , China
| | - Jie Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital , Shanghai , China
| | - Yan Huo
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital , Shanghai , China
| | - Jin Lu
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital , Shanghai , China
| | - Lili Wan
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital , Shanghai , China
| | - Bin Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital , Shanghai , China
| | - Run Gan
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital , Shanghai , China
| | - Cheng Guo
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital , Shanghai , China ; Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine , Shanghai , China
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Adhyatmika A, Putri KSS, Beljaars L, Melgert BN. The Elusive Antifibrotic Macrophage. Front Med (Lausanne) 2015; 2:81. [PMID: 26618160 PMCID: PMC4643133 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2015.00081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2015] [Accepted: 10/29/2015] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibrotic diseases, especially of the liver, the cardiovascular system, the kidneys, and the lungs, account for approximately 45% of deaths in Western societies. Fibrosis is a serious complication associated with aging and/or chronic inflammation or injury and cannot be treated effectively yet. It is characterized by excessive deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins by myofibroblasts and impaired degradation by macrophages. This ultimately destroys the normal structure of an organ, which leads to loss of function. Most efforts to develop drugs have focused on inhibiting ECM production by myofibroblasts and have not yielded many effective drugs yet. Another option is to stimulate the cells that are responsible for degradation and uptake of excess ECM, i.e., antifibrotic macrophages. However, macrophages are plastic cells that have many faces in fibrosis, including profibrotic behavior-stimulating ECM production. This can be dependent on their origin, as the different organs have tissue-resident macrophages with different origins and a various influx of incoming monocytes in steady-state conditions and during fibrosis. To be able to pharmacologically stimulate the right kind of behavior in fibrosis, a thorough characterization of antifibrotic macrophages is necessary, as well as an understanding of the signals they need to degrade ECM. In this review, we will summarize the current state of the art regarding the antifibrotic macrophage phenotype and the signals that stimulate its behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adhyatmika Adhyatmika
- Department of Pharmacokinetics, Toxicology and Targeting, Groningen Research Institute for Pharmacy (GRIP), University of Groningen , Groningen , Netherlands
| | - Kurnia S S Putri
- Department of Pharmacokinetics, Toxicology and Targeting, Groningen Research Institute for Pharmacy (GRIP), University of Groningen , Groningen , Netherlands ; Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy, Groningen Research Institute for Pharmacy (GRIP), University of Groningen , Groningen , Netherlands ; Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Indonesia , Depok , Indonesia
| | - Leonie Beljaars
- Department of Pharmacokinetics, Toxicology and Targeting, Groningen Research Institute for Pharmacy (GRIP), University of Groningen , Groningen , Netherlands
| | - Barbro N Melgert
- Department of Pharmacokinetics, Toxicology and Targeting, Groningen Research Institute for Pharmacy (GRIP), University of Groningen , Groningen , Netherlands ; GRIAC Research Institute, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen , Groningen , Netherlands
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The Antifibrosis Effects of Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor δ on Rat Corneal Wound Healing after Excimer Laser Keratectomy. PPAR Res 2014; 2014:464935. [PMID: 25477952 PMCID: PMC4248330 DOI: 10.1155/2014/464935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2014] [Accepted: 08/17/2014] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Corneal stromal fibrosis characterized by myofibroblasts and abnormal extracellular matrix (ECM) is usually the result of inappropriate wound healing. The present study tested the hypothesis that the ligand activation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) δ had antifibrosis effects in a rat model of corneal damage. Adult Sprague-Dawley rats underwent bilateral phototherapeutic keratectomy (PTK). The eyes were randomized into four groups: PBS, GW501516 (a selective agonist of PPARδ), GSK3787 (a selective antagonist of PPARδ), or GW501516 combined with GSK3787. The agents were subconjunctivally administered twice a week until sacrifice. The cellular aspects of corneal wound healing were evaluated with in vivo confocal imaging and postmortem histology. A myofibroblast marker (α-smooth muscle actin) and ECM production (fibronectin, collagen type III and collagen type I) were examined by immunohistochemistry and RT-PCR. At the early stages of wound healing, GW501516 inhibited reepithelialization and promoted angiogenesis. During the remodeling phase of wound healing, GW501516 attenuated the activation and proliferation of keratocytes, which could be reversed by GSK3787. GW501516 decreased transdifferentiation from keratocytes into myofibroblasts, ECM synthesis, and corneal haze. These results demonstrate that GW501516 controls corneal fibrosis and suggest that PPARδ may potentially serve as a therapeutic target for treating corneal scars.
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Latella G, Vetuschi A, Sferra R, Speca S, Gaudio E. Localization of ανβ6 integrin-TGF-β1/Smad3, mTOR and PPARγ in experimental colorectal fibrosis. Eur J Histochem 2013; 57:e40. [PMID: 24441193 PMCID: PMC3896042 DOI: 10.4081/ejh.2013.e40] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2013] [Revised: 11/26/2013] [Accepted: 11/04/2013] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
A simultaneous action of several pro-fibrotic mediators appears relevant in the development of fibrosis. There are evidences that transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β)/Smad3 pathway forms with αvβ6 integrin, mammalian target of Rapamycin (mTOR) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPARγ) a complex signalling network with extensive crosstalk and strong effects on fibrosis development. The present study evaluated the expression of TGFβ, Smad3, αvβ6 integrin, mTOR and PPARγ in 2, 4, 6-trinitrobenzenesulphonic acid (TNBS)-induced colorectal fibrosis in Smad3 wild-type (WT) and null mice. Smad3 WT mice treated with TNBS developed a marked colorectal fibrosis and showed a concomitant up-regulation of TGFβ, Smad3, αvβ6 and mTOR and a reduction of PPARγ expression. On the other hand, Smad3 Null mice similarly treated with TNBS did not develop fibrosis and showed a very low or even absent expression of TGFβ, Smad3, αvβ6 and mTOR and a marked over-expression of PPARγ. At the same time the expression of α-smooth muscle actin (a marker of activated myofibroblasts), collagen I-III and connective tissue growth factor (a downstream effector of TGFβ/Smad3-induced extracellular matrix proteins) were up-regulated in Smad3 WT mice treated with TNBS compared to Null TNBS-treated mice. These preliminary results suggest a possible interaction between these pro-fibrotic molecules in the development of intestinal fibrosis.
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Guo C, Xu L, He Q, Liang T, Duan X, Li R. Anti-fibrotic effects of puerarin on CCl4-induced hepatic fibrosis in rats possibly through the regulation of PPAR-γ expression and inhibition of PI3K/Akt pathway. Food Chem Toxicol 2013; 56:436-42. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2013.02.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2012] [Revised: 02/27/2013] [Accepted: 02/28/2013] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
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Zhao Q, Fan YC, Zhao J, Gao S, Zhao ZH, Wang K. DNA methylation patterns of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma gene associated with liver fibrosis and inflammation in chronic hepatitis B. J Viral Hepat 2013; 20:430-7. [PMID: 23647960 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.12048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2012] [Accepted: 11/01/2012] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR gamma) is a nuclear receptor that regulates gene expression of inflammatory mediators in liver injury. Hepatitis B virus (HBV) suppresses the PPAR gamma-mediated transactivation in liver cancerous cell lines. However, the role of PPAR gamma in patients with chronic HBV infection has not fully demonstrated. Our present study was firstly to determine the clinical relevance of peripheral PPAR gamma mRNA levels in chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients, and then, the DNA methylation of PPAR gamma promoter was investigated. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were isolated from 91 CHB patients and 18 healthy controls. The mRNA level of PPAR gamma was determined by quantitative real-time PCR; meanwhile, the CpG island methylation was assessed by methylation-specific PCR. CHB patients showed significantly lower mRNA level of PPAR gamma than healthy controls (P = 0.005). The mRNA level was decreased in HBV-DNA-positive group than HBV-DNA-negative group (P = 0.041). Interaction analysis demonstrated that the DNA methylation pattern was responsible for the suppression of peripheral PPAR gamma transcription in CHB patients (P = 0.003). Furthermore, the hypermethylation of PPAR gamma gene promoter was significantly associated with liver inflammation and fibrosis in CHB. In conclusion, DNA methylation patterns were responsible for the decreased mRNA level of peripheral PPAR gamma in CHB patients. Liver inflammation and fibrosis were found to be associated with hypermethylation of PPAR gamma promoter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Q Zhao
- Department of Hepatology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
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Mende S, Schulte S, Strack I, Hunt H, Odenthal M, Pryymachuck G, Quasdorff M, Demir M, Nierhoff D, Dienes HP, Goeser T, Steffen HM, Töx U. Telmisartan plus propranolol improves liver fibrosis and bile duct proliferation in the PSC-like Abcb4-/- mouse model. Dig Dis Sci 2013; 58:1271-81. [PMID: 23247798 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-012-2499-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2012] [Accepted: 11/20/2012] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a chronic cholestatic liver disease leading to cirrhosis and cholangiocellular carcinoma. Inhibitors of the renin-angiotensin system or the sympathetic nervous system delay liver fibrogenesis in animal models. AIMS We investigated the antifibrotic potential of telmisartan, an angiotensin II type 1 receptor antagonist, and the β-adrenoceptor blocker propranolol in the PSC-like Abcb4 knockout mouse model. METHODS Sixty-five Abcb4 (-/-) mice were treated with telmisartan for 3 or 5 months (T) and with telmisartan plus propranolol for 3, 5, or 8 months (TP), or for 2 or 5 months starting with a delay of 3 months (TP delayed). Liver hydroxyproline content, inflammation, fibrosis, and bile duct proliferation were assessed; fibrosis-related molecules were analyzed by real-time polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting. RESULTS Compared to controls, telmisartan monotherapy had no significant influence on hydroxyproline; however, telmisartan plus propranolol reduced hydroxyproline (TP 3 months, p = 0.008), fibrosis score (TP 3 months and TP 8 months, p = 0.043 and p = 0.008, respectively; TP delayed 8 months, p < 0.0005), bile duct proliferation (TP 8 months and TP delayed 8 months, p = 0.006 and p < 0.0005, respectively), and procollagen α1(I), endothelin-1, TIMP-1 and MMP3 mRNA as well as α-SMA, CK-19, and TIMP-1 protein. CONCLUSIONS Telmisartan plus propranolol reduces liver fibrosis and bile duct proliferation in the PSC-like Abcb4 (-/-) mouse model, even when started at late stages of fibrosis, and may thus represent a novel therapeutic option for cholestatic liver diseases such as PSC.
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MESH Headings
- ATP Binding Cassette Transporter, Subfamily B/genetics
- Adrenergic beta-Antagonists/pharmacology
- Adrenergic beta-Antagonists/therapeutic use
- Animals
- Benzimidazoles/pharmacology
- Benzimidazoles/therapeutic use
- Benzoates/pharmacology
- Benzoates/therapeutic use
- Bile Ducts/drug effects
- Bile Ducts/pathology
- Cholangitis, Sclerosing/drug therapy
- Cholangitis, Sclerosing/metabolism
- Collagen Type I/metabolism
- Collagen Type I, alpha 1 Chain
- Cytokines/metabolism
- Disease Models, Animal
- Drug Evaluation, Preclinical
- Drug Therapy, Combination
- Liver/drug effects
- Liver/pathology
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred BALB C
- Mice, Knockout
- Myofibroblasts/metabolism
- Propranolol/pharmacology
- Propranolol/therapeutic use
- RNA, Messenger/metabolism
- Receptor, Angiotensin, Type 1/therapeutic use
- Telmisartan
- ATP-Binding Cassette Sub-Family B Member 4
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Mende
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital of Cologne, Kerpenerstrasse 62, 50924, Cologne, Germany.
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Translating an understanding of the pathogenesis of hepatic fibrosis to novel therapies. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2013; 11:224-31.e1-5. [PMID: 23305825 PMCID: PMC4151461 DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2013.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The response to injury is one of wound healing and fibrogenesis, which ultimately leads to fibrosis. The fibrogenic response to injury is a generalized one across virtually all organ systems. In the liver, the injury response, typically occurring over a prolonged period of time, leads to cirrhosis (although it should be pointed out that not all patients with liver injury develop cirrhosis). The fact that many different diseases result in cirrhosis suggests a common pathogenesis. The study of hepatic fibrogenesis over the past 2 decades has been remarkably active, leading to a considerable understanding of this process. It clearly has been shown that the hepatic stellate cell is a central component in the fibrogenic process. It also has been recognized that other effector cells are important in the fibrogenic process, including resident fibroblasts, bone marrow-derived cells, fibrocytes, and even perhaps cells derived from epithelial cells (ie, through epithelial to mesenchymal transition). A key aspect of the biology of fibrogenesis is that the fibrogenic process is dynamic; thus, even advanced fibrosis (or cirrhosis) is reversible. Together, an understanding of the cellular basis for liver fibrogenesis, along with multiple aspects of the basic pathogenesis of fibrosis, have highlighted many exciting potential therapeutic opportunities. Thus, although the most effective antifibrotic therapy is simply treatment of the underlying disease, in situations in which this is not possible, specific antifibrotic therapy is likely not only to become feasible, but will soon become a reality. This review highlights the mechanisms underlying fibrogenesis that may be translated into future antifibrotic therapies and to review the current state of clinical development.
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Zhang F, Kong D, Lu Y, Zheng S. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ as a therapeutic target for hepatic fibrosis: from bench to bedside. Cell Mol Life Sci 2013; 70:259-76. [PMID: 22699820 PMCID: PMC11113701 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-012-1046-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2012] [Revised: 05/18/2012] [Accepted: 05/29/2012] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis is a dynamic chronic liver disease occurring as a consequence of wound-healing responses to various hepatic injuries. This disorder is one of primary predictors for liver-associated morbidity and mortality worldwide. To date, no pharmacological agent has been approved for hepatic fibrosis or could be recommended for routine use in clinical context. Cellular and molecular understanding of hepatic fibrosis has revealed that peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPARγ), the functioning receptor for antidiabetic thiazolidinediones, plays a pivotal role in the pathobiology of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), whose activation is the central event in the pathogenesis of hepatic fibrosis. Activation of PPARγ inhibits HSC collagen production and modulates HSC adipogenic phenotype at transcriptional and epigenetic levels. These molecular insights indicate PPARγ as a promising drug target for antifibrotic chemotherapy. Intensive animal studies have demonstrated that stimulation of PPARγ regulatory system through gene therapy approaches and PPARγ ligands has therapeutic promise for hepatic fibrosis induced by a variety of etiologies. At the same time, thiazolidinedione agents have been investigated for their clinical benefits primarily in patients with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, a common metabolic liver disorder with high potential to progress to fibrosis and liver-related death. Although some studies have shown initial promise, none has established long-term efficacy in well-controlled randomized clinical trials. This comprehensive review covers the 10-year discoveries of the molecular basis for PPARγ regulation of HSC pathophysiology and then focuses on the animal investigations and clinical trials of various therapeutic modalities targeting PPARγ for hepatic fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Zhang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 282 Hanzhong Road, Nanjing, 210029 Jiangsu China
| | - Desong Kong
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 282 Hanzhong Road, Nanjing, 210029 Jiangsu China
| | - Yin Lu
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 282 Hanzhong Road, Nanjing, 210029 Jiangsu China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210046 China
- National First-Class Key Discipline for Traditional Chinese Medicine of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210046 China
| | - Shizhong Zheng
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 282 Hanzhong Road, Nanjing, 210029 Jiangsu China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210046 China
- National First-Class Key Discipline for Traditional Chinese Medicine of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210046 China
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Speca S, Giusti I, Rieder F, Latella G. Cellular and molecular mechanisms of intestinal fibrosis. World J Gastroenterol 2012; 18:3635-61. [PMID: 22851857 PMCID: PMC3406417 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v18.i28.3635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 186] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2011] [Revised: 03/26/2012] [Accepted: 04/09/2012] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis is a chronic and progressive process characterized by an excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) leading to stiffening and/or scarring of the involved tissue. Intestinal fibrosis may develop in several different enteropathies, including inflammatory bowel disease. It develops through complex cell, extracellular matrix, cytokine and growth factor interactions. Distinct cell types are involved in intestinal fibrosis, such as resident mesenchymal cells (fibroblasts, myofibroblasts and smooth muscle cells) but also ECM-producing cells derived from epithelial and endothelial cells (through a process termed epithelial- and endothelial-mesenchymal transition), stellate cells, pericytes, local or bone marrow-derived stem cells. The most important soluble factors that regulate the activation of these cells include cytokines, chemokines, growth factors, components of the renin-angiotensin system, angiogenic factors, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors, mammalian target of rapamycin, and products of oxidative stress. It soon becomes clear that although inflammation is responsible for triggering the onset of the fibrotic process, it only plays a minor role in the progression of this condition, as fibrosis may advance in a self-perpetuating fashion. Definition of the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in intestinal fibrosis may provide the key to developing new therapeutic approaches.
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Abstract
Fibrosis is a pathological feature of most chronic inflammatory diseases. Fibrosis, or scarring, is defined by the accumulation of excess extracellular matrix components. If highly progressive, the fibrotic process eventually leads to organ malfunction and death. Fibrosis affects nearly every tissue in the body. Here we discuss how key components of the innate and adaptive immune response contribute to the pathogenesis of fibrosis. We also describe how cell-intrinsic changes in important structural cells can perpetuate the fibrotic response by regulating the differentiation, recruitment, proliferation and activation of extracellular matrix-producing myofibroblasts. Finally, we highlight some of the key mechanisms and pathways of fibrosis that are being targeted as potential therapies for a variety of important human diseases.
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Abstract
Fibrosis is a pathological feature of most chronic inflammatory diseases. Fibrosis, or scarring, is defined by the accumulation of excess extracellular matrix components. If highly progressive, the fibrotic process eventually leads to organ malfunction and death. Fibrosis affects nearly every tissue in the body. Here we discuss how key components of the innate and adaptive immune response contribute to the pathogenesis of fibrosis. We also describe how cell-intrinsic changes in important structural cells can perpetuate the fibrotic response by regulating the differentiation, recruitment, proliferation and activation of extracellular matrix-producing myofibroblasts. Finally, we highlight some of the key mechanisms and pathways of fibrosis that are being targeted as potential therapies for a variety of important human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas A Wynn
- Immunopathogenesis Section, Program in Barrier Immunity and Repair, Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA.
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Tailleux A, Wouters K, Staels B. Roles of PPARs in NAFLD: potential therapeutic targets. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Cell Biol Lipids 2011; 1821:809-18. [PMID: 22056763 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbalip.2011.10.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 205] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2011] [Revised: 10/14/2011] [Accepted: 10/18/2011] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a liver pathology with increasing prevalence due to the obesity epidemic. Hence, NAFLD represents a rising threat to public health. Currently, no effective treatments are available to treat NAFLD and its complications such as cirrhosis and liver cancer. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are ligand-activated nuclear receptors which regulate lipid and glucose metabolism as well as inflammation. Here we review recent findings on the pathophysiological role of PPARs in the different stages of NAFLD, from steatosis development to steatohepatitis and fibrosis, as well as the preclinical and clinical evidence for potential therapeutical use of PPAR agonists in the treatment of NAFLD. PPARs play a role in modulating hepatic triglyceride accumulation, a hallmark of the development of NAFLD. Moreover, PPARs may also influence the evolution of reversible steatosis toward irreversible, more advanced lesions. Presently, large controlled trials of long duration are needed to assess the long-term clinical benefits of PPAR agonists in humans. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled Triglyceride Metabolism and Disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Tailleux
- Université Lille Nord de France, F-59000 Lille, France
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40
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Adams PC. Chelation therapy for secondary iron overload: is the primary effect less iron or less liver fibrosis? Gastroenterology 2011; 141:1142-3. [PMID: 21871454 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2011.08.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
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41
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Trauner M, Halilbasic E. Nuclear receptors as new perspective for the management of liver diseases. Gastroenterology 2011; 140:1120-1125.e1-12. [PMID: 21334334 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2011.02.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Nuclear receptors (NRs) are ligand-activated transcription factors that act as sensors for a broad range of natural and synthetic ligands and regulate several key hepatic functions including bile acid homeostasis, bile secretion, lipid and glucose metabolism, as well as drug deposition. Moreover, NRs control hepatic inflammation, regeneration, fibrosis, and tumor formation. Therefore, NRs are key for understanding the pathogenesis and pathophysiology of a wide range of hepatic disorders. Finally, targeting NRs and their alterations offers exciting new perspectives for the treatment of liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Trauner
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Austria.
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