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Choi YJ, Kim Y, Hwang S. Role of Neutrophils in the Development of Steatotic Liver Disease. Semin Liver Dis 2024. [PMID: 39117322 DOI: 10.1055/s-0044-1789207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/10/2024]
Abstract
This review explores the biological aspects of neutrophils, their contributions to the development of steatotic liver disease, and their potential as therapeutic targets for the disease. Although alcohol-associated and metabolic dysfunction-associated liver diseases originate from distinct etiological factors, the two diseases frequently share excessive lipid accumulation as a common contributor to their pathogenesis, thereby classifying them as types of steatotic liver disease. Dysregulated lipid deposition in the liver induces hepatic injury, triggering the activation of the innate immunity, partially through neutrophil recruitment. Traditionally recognized for their role in microbial clearance, neutrophils have recently garnered attention for their involvement in sterile inflammation, a pivotal component of steatotic liver disease pathogenesis. In conclusion, technological innovations, including single-cell RNA sequencing, have gradually disclosed the existence of various neutrophil subsets; however, how the distinct subsets of neutrophil population contribute differentially to the development of steatotic liver disease remains unclear.
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Affiliation(s)
- You-Jin Choi
- College of Pharmacy, Daegu Catholic University, Gyeongsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Yeonsoo Kim
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute for Drug Development, Pusan National University, Busan, Republic of Korea
| | - Seonghwan Hwang
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute for Drug Development, Pusan National University, Busan, Republic of Korea
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2
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Ma Y, Tang P, Xu J, Li T, Zhang J, Li H, Bai Y, Wang Q, Wang Q. The role of neutrophil extracellular traps in β-methylamino L-alanine-induced liver injury in mice. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 281:116678. [PMID: 38964067 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.116678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2024] [Revised: 06/28/2024] [Accepted: 06/30/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024]
Abstract
The non-protein amino acid β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA), produced by cyanobacteria, has been recognized as a neurotoxin. L-serine as an antagonist of BMAA can effectively alleviate BMAA-induced neurotoxicity. Although BMAA has long been emphasized as a neurotoxin, with the emergence of BMAA detected in a variety of algae in freshwater around the world and its clear biological enrichment effect, it is particularly important to study the non-neurotoxic adverse effects of BMAA. However, there is only limited evidence to support the ability of BMAA to cause oxidative damage in the liver. The exact molecular mechanism of BMAA-induced liver injury is still unclear. The formation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) is a 'double-edged sword' for the organism, excessive formation of NETs is associated with inflammatory diseases of the liver. Our results innovatively confirmed that BMAA was able to cause the formation of NETs in the liver during the liver injury. The possible mechanism may associated with the regulation of ERK/p38 and cGAS/STING signaling pathways. The massive formation of NETs was able to exacerbate the BMAA-induced oxidative stress and release of inflammatory factors in the mice liver. And the removal of NETs could alleviate this injury. This article will bring a new laboratory evidence for BMAA-induced non-neurotoxicity and immunotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Ma
- Department of Health Toxicology, School of Public Health, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116044, PR China
| | - Peiyan Tang
- National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Drug-Research and Development (R & D) of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116044, PR China
| | - Jiaqi Xu
- Department of Health Toxicology, School of Public Health, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116044, PR China
| | - Tao Li
- Department of Health Toxicology, School of Public Health, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116044, PR China
| | - Jiahang Zhang
- Department of Health Toxicology, School of Public Health, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116044, PR China
| | - Haidong Li
- First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116044, PR China
| | - Yutan Bai
- First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116044, PR China
| | - Qinghui Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Affiliated Zhongshan Hospital of Dalian University, Dalian 116023, China.
| | - Qingshan Wang
- Department of Health Toxicology, School of Public Health, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116044, PR China; National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Drug-Research and Development (R & D) of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116044, PR China.
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3
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Liguori A, D'Ambrosio F, Napodano C, Gentili V, Giustiniani MC, Pompili M, Grieco A, Rapaccini G, Urbani A, Gasbarrini A, Basile U, Miele L. Serum-free light chains as a dependable biomarker for stratifying patients with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease. Liver Int 2024. [PMID: 39016540 DOI: 10.1111/liv.16036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2023] [Revised: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/18/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Adaptive immunity is gaining a significant role in progression of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). B-cell activity can be assessed by serum-free light chains (sFLCs) k and λ levels. The objective of the present investigation is to examine the utility of sFLCs as non-invasive biomarkers for the stratification of MASLD. METHODS We enrolled a consecutive cohort from an outpatient liver unit. Diagnosis of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) was made with liver biopsy according to current guidelines. Compensated advanced chronic liver disease (cACLD) and clinically significant portal hypertension (CSPH) were defined according to Baveno VII criteria. sFLCs were measured by turbidimetry using an immunoassay. RESULTS We evaluated 254 patients, 162/254 (63.8%) were male. Median age was 54 years old, and the median body mass index was 28.4 kg/m2. A total of 157/254 (61.8%) subjects underwent liver biopsy: 88 had histological diagnosis of MASH, 89 were considered as simple metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver (MASL) and 77/254 (30.3%) patients with compensated metabolic dysfunction-associated cirrhosis. By using Baveno VII criteria, 101/254 (39.7%) patients had cACLD; among them, 45/101 (44.5%) had CSPH. Patients with cACLD showed higher sFLC levels compared with patients without cACLD (p < .01), and patients with CSPH showed higher sFLC levels than patients without CSPH (p < .01). At multivariable analysis, sFLCs were associated with cACLD (p < .05) independently from γ-globulins and other known dysmetabolic risk factors. κFLC was associated with CSPH (p < .05) independently from γ-globulins and other known dysmetabolic risk factors. CONCLUSION sFLCs could be a simple biomarker for stratification of cACLD in MASLD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Liguori
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Department of Translational Medicine and Surgery, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
- Internal Medicine and Liver Transplant Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A, Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- CEMAD, Digestive Disease Center, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A, Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca D'Ambrosio
- Department of Laboratory and Infectious Diseases Sciences, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Cecilia Napodano
- Department of Laboratory and Infectious Diseases Sciences, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Vanessa Gentili
- Department of Laboratory and Infectious Diseases Sciences, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina Giustiniani
- Department of Women, Children and Public Health Sciences, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A, Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Maurizio Pompili
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Department of Translational Medicine and Surgery, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Grieco
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Department of Translational Medicine and Surgery, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Gianludovico Rapaccini
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Department of Translational Medicine and Surgery, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Urbani
- Department of Laboratory and Infectious Diseases Sciences, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Gasbarrini
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Department of Translational Medicine and Surgery, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
- Internal Medicine and Liver Transplant Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A, Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Umberto Basile
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Santa Maria Goretti HospitalAUSL Latina, Latina, Italy
| | - Luca Miele
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Department of Translational Medicine and Surgery, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
- Internal Medicine and Liver Transplant Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A, Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- CEMAD, Digestive Disease Center, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A, Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
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Mouskeftara T, Kalopitas G, Liapikos T, Arvanitakis K, Germanidis G, Gika H. Predicting Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis: A Lipidomics-Driven Machine Learning Approach. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5965. [PMID: 38892150 PMCID: PMC11172949 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25115965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2024] [Revised: 05/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), nowadays the most prevalent chronic liver disease in Western countries, is characterized by a variable phenotype ranging from steatosis to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Intracellular lipid accumulation is considered the hallmark of NAFLD and is associated with lipotoxicity and inflammation, as well as increased oxidative stress levels. In this study, a lipidomic approach was used to investigate the plasma lipidome of 12 NASH patients, 10 Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver (NAFL) patients, and 15 healthy controls, revealing significant alterations in lipid classes, such as glycerolipids and glycerophospholipids, as well as fatty acid compositions in the context of steatosis and steatohepatitis. A machine learning XGBoost algorithm identified a panel of 15 plasma biomarkers, including HOMA-IR, BMI, platelets count, LDL-c, ferritin, AST, FA 12:0, FA 18:3 ω3, FA 20:4 ω6/FA 20:5 ω3, CAR 4:0, LPC 20:4, LPC O-16:1, LPE 18:0, DG 18:1_18:2, and CE 20:4 for predicting steatohepatitis. This research offers insights into the connection between imbalanced lipid metabolism and the formation and progression of NAFL D, while also supporting previous research findings. Future studies on lipid metabolism could lead to new therapeutic approaches and enhanced risk assessment methods, as the shift from isolated steatosis to NASH is currently poorly understood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomai Mouskeftara
- Laboratory of Forensic Medicine & Toxicology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece;
- Biomic AUTh, Center for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation (CIRI-AUTH), Balkan Center B1.4, 10th km Thessaloniki-Thermi Rd., 57001 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Georgios Kalopitas
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, 1st Department of Internal Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece; (G.K.); (G.G.)
- Basic and Translational Research Unit, Special Unit for Biomedical Research and Education, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Laboratory of Hygiene, Social and Preventive Medicine and Medical Statistics, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Theodoros Liapikos
- Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry, Department of Chemistry, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Konstantinos Arvanitakis
- First Department of Internal Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Georgios Germanidis
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, 1st Department of Internal Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece; (G.K.); (G.G.)
- Basic and Translational Research Unit, Special Unit for Biomedical Research and Education, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Laboratory of Hygiene, Social and Preventive Medicine and Medical Statistics, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Helen Gika
- Laboratory of Forensic Medicine & Toxicology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece;
- Biomic AUTh, Center for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation (CIRI-AUTH), Balkan Center B1.4, 10th km Thessaloniki-Thermi Rd., 57001 Thessaloniki, Greece
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5
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Zhu N, Wang X, Zhu H, Zheng Y. Blood cell parameters and risk of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: a comprehensive Mendelian randomization study. BMC Med Genomics 2024; 17:102. [PMID: 38654378 DOI: 10.1186/s12920-024-01879-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is on the rise globally, and past research suggests a significant association with various blood cell components. Our goal is to explore the potential correlation between whole blood cell indices and NAFLD risk using Mendelian randomization (MR). METHODS We analyzed data from 4,198 participants in the 2017-2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey to investigate the link between blood cell indicators and NAFLD. Using various methods like weighted quantile sum and multivariate logistic regression, we assessed the association. Additionally, two-sample Mendelian randomization were employed to infer causality for 36 blood cell indicators and NAFLD. RESULTS Multivariate logistic regression identified 10 NAFLD risk factors. Weighted quantile sum revealed a positive correlation (p = 6.03e-07) between total blood cell indices and NAFLD, with hemoglobin and lymphocyte counts as key contributors. Restricted cubic spline analysis found five indicators with significant nonlinear correlations to NAFLD. Mendelian randomization showed a notable association between reticulocyte counts and NAFLD using the inverse-variance weighted method. CONCLUSIONS Hematological markers pose an independent NAFLD risk, with a positive causal link found for reticulocyte count. These results emphasize the importance of monitoring NAFLD and investigating specific underlying mechanisms further.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Zhu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hebei Medical University, 050017, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
- Department of Internal Medicine, The First Hospital of Qinhuangdao, 066000, Qinhuangdao, Hebei Province, China
| | - Xiaoliang Wang
- Department of Cardiology, The First Hospital of Qinhuangdao, 066000, Qinhuangdao, Hebei Province, China
| | - Huiting Zhu
- Department of Internal Medicine, The First Hospital of Qinhuangdao, 066000, Qinhuangdao, Hebei Province, China
| | - Yue Zheng
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hebei Medical University, 050017, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China.
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Hospital of Qinhuangdao, 066000, Qinhuangdao, Hebei Province, China.
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6
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Pipitone RM, Lupo G, Zito R, Javed A, Petta S, Pennisi G, Grimaudo S. The PD-1/PD-L1 Axis in the Biology of MASLD. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:3671. [PMID: 38612483 PMCID: PMC11011676 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25073671] [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: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver (MASL), previously named nonalcoholic fatty liver (NAFL), is a multifactorial disease in which metabolic, genetic, and environmental risk factors play a predominant role. Obesity and type 2 diabetes act as triggers of the inflammatory response, which contributes to the progression of MASL to Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatohepatitis and the development of hepatocellular carcinoma. In the liver, several parenchymal, nonparenchymal, and immune cells maintain immunological homeostasis, and different regulatory pathways balance the activation of the innate and adaptative immune system. PD-1/PD-L1 signaling acts, in the maintenance of the balance between the immune responses and the tissue immune homeostasis, promoting self-tolerance through the modulation of activated T cells. Recently, PD-1 has received much attention for its roles in inducing an exhausted T cells phenotype, promoting the tumor escape from immune responses. Indeed, in MASLD, the excessive fat accumulation dysregulates the immune system, increasing cytotoxic lymphocytes and decreasing their cytolytic activity. In this context, T cells exacerbate liver damage and promote tumor progression. The aim of this review is to illustrate the main pathogenetic mechanisms by which the immune system promotes the progression of MASLD and the transition to HCC, as well as to discuss the possible therapeutic applications of PD-1/PD-L1 target therapy to activate T cells and reinvigorate immune surveillance against cancer.
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7
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Parola M, Pinzani M. Liver fibrosis in NAFLD/NASH: from pathophysiology towards diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. Mol Aspects Med 2024; 95:101231. [PMID: 38056058 DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2023.101231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis, as an excess deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) components, results from chronic liver injury as well as persistent activation of inflammatory response and of fibrogenesis. Liver fibrosis is a major determinant for chronic liver disease (CLD) progression and in the last two decades our understanding on the major molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying the fibrogenic progression of CLD has dramatically improved, boosting pre-clinical studies and clinical trials designed to find novel therapeutic approaches. From these studies several critical concepts have emerged, starting to reveal the complexity of the pro-fibrotic microenvironment which involves very complex, dynamic and interrelated interactions between different hepatic and extrahepatic cell populations. This review will offer first a recapitulation of established and novel pathophysiological basic principles and concepts by intentionally focus the attention on NAFLD/NASH, a metabolic-related form of CLD with a high impact on the general population and emerging as a leading cause of CLD worldwide. NAFLD/NASH-related pro-inflammatory and profibrogenic mechanisms will be analysed as well as novel information on cells, mediators and signalling pathways which have taken advantage from novel methodological approaches and techniques (single cell genomics, imaging mass cytometry, novel in vitro two- and three-dimensional models, etc.). We will next offer an overview on recent advancement in diagnostic and prognostic tools, including serum biomarkers and polygenic scores, to support the analysis of liver biopsies. Finally, this review will provide an analysis of current and emerging therapies for the treatment of NAFLD/NASH patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maurizio Parola
- Dept. Clinical and Biological Sciences, Unit of Experimental Medicine and Clinical Pathology, University of Torino, Corso Raffaello 30, 10125, Torino, Italy.
| | - Massimo Pinzani
- UCL Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, Division of Medicine - Royal Free Hospital, London, NW32PF, United Kingdom.
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Lonardo A, Ballestri S, Mantovani A, Targher G, Bril F. Endpoints in NASH Clinical Trials: Are We Blind in One Eye? Metabolites 2024; 14:40. [PMID: 38248843 PMCID: PMC10820221 DOI: 10.3390/metabo14010040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 12/31/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
This narrative review aims to illustrate the notion that nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), recently renamed metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), is a systemic metabolic disorder featuring both adverse hepatic and extrahepatic outcomes. In recent years, several NASH trials have failed to identify effective pharmacological treatments and, therefore, lifestyle changes are the cornerstone of therapy for NASH. with this context, we analyze the epidemiological burden of NASH and the possible pathogenetic factors involved. These include genetic factors, insulin resistance, lipotoxicity, immuno-thrombosis, oxidative stress, reprogramming of hepatic metabolism, and hypoxia, all of which eventually culminate in low-grade chronic inflammation and increased risk of fibrosis progression. The possible explanations underlying the failure of NASH trials are also accurately examined. We conclude that the high heterogeneity of NASH, resulting from variable genetic backgrounds, exposure, and responses to different metabolic stresses, susceptibility to hepatocyte lipotoxicity, and differences in repair-response, calls for personalized medicine approaches involving research on noninvasive biomarkers. Future NASH trials should aim at achieving a complete assessment of systemic determinants, modifiers, and correlates of NASH, thus adopting a more holistic and unbiased approach, notably including cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic outcomes, without restricting therapeutic perspectives to histological surrogates of liver-related outcomes alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amedeo Lonardo
- AOU—Modena—Ospedale Civile di Baggiovara, 41126 Modena, Italy;
| | | | - Alessandro Mantovani
- Section of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Piazzale Stefani, 37126 Verona, Italy
| | - Giovanni Targher
- Department of Medicine, University of Verona, 37126 Verona, Italy;
- Metabolic Diseases Research Unit, IRCCS Sacro Cuore—Don Calabria Hospital, 37024 Negrar di Valpolicella, Italy
| | - Fernando Bril
- Department of Medicine, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Birmingham, AL 35233, USA;
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Wu Z, Chen X, Wu S, Liu Z, Li H, Mai K, Peng Y, Zhang H, Zhang X, Zheng Z, Fu Z, Chen D. Transcriptome analysis reveals the impact of NETs activation on airway epithelial cell EMT and inflammation in bronchiolitis obliterans. Sci Rep 2023; 13:19226. [PMID: 37932341 PMCID: PMC10628238 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-45617-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/21/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Bronchiolitis obliterans (BO) is a chronic airway disease that was often indicated by the pathological presentation of narrowed and irreversible airways. However, the molecular mechanisms of BO pathogenesis remain unknown. Although neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) can contribute to inflammatory disorders, their involvement in BO is unclear. This study aims to identify potential signaling pathways in BO by exploring the correlations between NETs and BO. GSE52761 and GSE137169 datasets were downloaded from gene expression omnibus (GEO) database. A series of bioinformatics analyses such as differential expression analysis, gene ontology (GO), Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG), and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) were performed on GSE52761 and GSE137169 datasets to identify BO potential signaling pathways. Two different types of BO mouse models were constructed to verify NETs involvements in BO. Additional experiments and bioinformatics analysis using human small airway epithelial cells (SAECs) were also performed to further elucidate differential genes enrichment with their respective signaling pathways in BO. Our study identified 115 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) that were found up-regulated in BO. Pathway enrichment analysis revealed that these genes were primarily involved in inflammatory signaling processes. Besides, we found that neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) were formed and activated during BO. Our western blot analysis on lung tissue from BO mice further confirmed NETs activation in BO, where neutrophil elastase (NE) and myeloperoxidase (MPO) expression were found significantly elevated. Transcriptomic and bioinformatics analysis of NETs treated-SAECs also revealed that NETs-DEGs were primarily associated through inflammatory and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) -related pathways. Our study provides novel clues towards the understanding of BO pathogenesis, in which NETs contribute to BO pathogenesis through the activation of inflammatory and EMT associated pathways. The completion of our study will provide the basis for potential novel therapeutic targets in BO treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongji Wu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510000, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaowen Chen
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510000, People's Republic of China
| | - Shangzhi Wu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510000, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhenwei Liu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510000, People's Republic of China
| | - Hongwei Li
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510000, People's Republic of China
| | - Kailin Mai
- Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510000, People's Republic of China
| | - Yinghui Peng
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510000, People's Republic of China
| | - Haidi Zhang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510000, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaodie Zhang
- Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510000, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhaocong Zheng
- Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510000, People's Republic of China
| | - Zian Fu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510000, People's Republic of China
| | - Dehui Chen
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510000, People's Republic of China.
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10
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Fa P, Ke BG, Dupre A, Tsung A, Zhang H. The implication of neutrophil extracellular traps in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1292679. [PMID: 38022519 PMCID: PMC10652891 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1292679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is an expanding worldwide health concern, and the underlying mechanisms contributing to its progression still need further exploration. Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are intricate formations comprised of nuclear constituents and diverse antimicrobial granules that are released into the extracellular milieu by activated neutrophils upon various triggers, which play a pivotal part in the onset and advancement of NAFLD. NETs actively participate in the genesis of NAFLD by fostering oxidative stress and inflammation, ultimately resulting in hepatic fat accumulation and the escalation of liver injury. Recent insights into the interaction with other hepatic immune populations and mediators, such as macrophages and T regulatory cells, have revealed several important mechanisms that can trigger further liver injury. In conclusion, the formation of NETs emerged as an important factor in the development of NAFLD, offering a promising target for innovative therapeutic approaches against this debilitating condition. This comprehensive review seeks to compile existing studies exploring the involvement of NETs in the genesis of NAFLD and their influence on the immune response throughout the progression of NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengyan Fa
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
| | - Benjamin G. Ke
- School of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
| | - Abigail Dupre
- School of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
| | - Allan Tsung
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
| | - Hongji Zhang
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
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Rungratanawanich W, Ballway JW, Wang X, Won KJ, Hardwick JP, Song BJ. Post-translational modifications of histone and non-histone proteins in epigenetic regulation and translational applications in alcohol-associated liver disease: Challenges and research opportunities. Pharmacol Ther 2023; 251:108547. [PMID: 37838219 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2023.108547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/16/2023]
Abstract
Epigenetic regulation is a process that takes place through adaptive cellular pathways influenced by environmental factors and metabolic changes to modulate gene activity with heritable phenotypic variations without altering the DNA sequences of many target genes. Epigenetic regulation can be facilitated by diverse mechanisms: many different types of post-translational modifications (PTMs) of histone and non-histone nuclear proteins, DNA methylation, altered levels of noncoding RNAs, incorporation of histone variants, nucleosomal positioning, chromatin remodeling, etc. These factors modulate chromatin structure and stability with or without the involvement of metabolic products, depending on the cellular context of target cells or environmental stimuli, such as intake of alcohol (ethanol) or Western-style high-fat diets. Alterations of epigenetics have been actively studied, since they are frequently associated with multiple disease states. Consequently, explorations of epigenetic regulation have recently shed light on the pathogenesis and progression of alcohol-associated disorders. In this review, we highlight the roles of various types of PTMs, including less-characterized modifications of nuclear histone and non-histone proteins, in the epigenetic regulation of alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD) and other disorders. We also describe challenges in characterizing specific PTMs and suggest future opportunities for basic and translational research to prevent or treat ALD and many other disease states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wiramon Rungratanawanich
- Section of Molecular Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, 9000 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Jacob W Ballway
- Section of Molecular Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, 9000 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Kyoung-Jae Won
- Department of Computational Biomedicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, West Hollywood, CA, 90069, USA
| | - James P Hardwick
- Department of Integrative Medical Sciences, Northeast Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, OH 44272, USA.
| | - Byoung-Joon Song
- Section of Molecular Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, 9000 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
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12
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Yao M, Ma J, Wu D, Fang C, Wang Z, Guo T, Mo J. Neutrophil extracellular traps mediate deep vein thrombosis: from mechanism to therapy. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1198952. [PMID: 37680629 PMCID: PMC10482110 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1198952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Deep venous thrombosis (DVT) is a part of venous thromboembolism (VTE) that clinically manifests as swelling and pain in the lower limbs. The most serious clinical complication of DVT is pulmonary embolism (PE), which has a high mortality rate. To date, its underlying mechanisms are not fully understood, and patients usually present with clinical symptoms only after the formation of the thrombus. Thus, it is essential to understand the underlying mechanisms of deep vein thrombosis for an early diagnosis and treatment of DVT. In recent years, many studies have concluded that Neutrophil Extracellular Traps (NETs) are closely associated with DVT. These are released by neutrophils and, in addition to trapping pathogens, can mediate the formation of deep vein thrombi, thereby blocking blood vessels and leading to the development of disease. Therefore, this paper describes the occurrence and development of NETs and discusses the mechanism of action of NETs on deep vein thrombosis. It aims to provide a direction for improved diagnosis and treatment of deep vein thrombosis in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengting Yao
- The First Clinical College, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
| | - Jiacheng Ma
- The First Clinical College, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
| | - Dongwen Wu
- The First Clinical College, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
| | - Chucun Fang
- The First Clinical College, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
| | - Zilong Wang
- The First Clinical College, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
| | - Tianting Guo
- Department of Orthopedics, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital Ganzhou Hospital, Ganzhou Municipal Hospital, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
| | - Jianwen Mo
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
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13
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Gong H, Zhong H, Xu HM, Liu XC, Li LP, Zhang DK. Insight into increased risk of portal vein thrombosis in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Eur J Intern Med 2023; 114:23-34. [PMID: 37330315 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejim.2023.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is one of the leading chronic liver diseases with increased morbidity and mortality rates for extrahepatic diseases (including cardiovascular disease, portal vein thrombosis, etc.). There is an increased risk of thrombosis in both the portal and systemic circulation in patients with NAFLD, independent of traditional liver cirrhosis. However, increased portal pressure, the most critical factor, is frequently observed in NAFLD patients, predisposing them to portal vein thrombosis (PVT). It has been reported that there is an 8.5% incidence of PVT among patients with non-cirrhotic NAFLD in a prospective cohort study. Based on the prothrombotic status of NAFLD itself, patients combined with cirrhosis may accelerate the development of PVT and lead to a poor prognosis. Moreover, PVT has been shown to complicate the procedure and adversely affect the outcome during liver transplantation surgery. NAFLD is in a prothrombotic state, and its underlying mechanisms have not been fully understood so far. Particularly noteworthy is that gastroenterologists currently overlook the higher risk of PVT in NAFLD. We investigate the pathogenesis of NAFLD complicated with PVT from the perspective of primary, secondary, and tertiary hemostasis, and also summarize relevant studies in humans. Some treatment options that may affect NAFLD and its PVT are also explored to improve patient-oriented outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hang Gong
- Department of Gastroenterology, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, Gansu Province, China
| | - Huang Zhong
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zigong First People's Hospital, Zigong, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Hui-Mei Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, Gansu Province, China
| | - Xiong-Chang Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Lanzhou Second People's Hospital, Lanzhou, Gansu Province, China
| | - Liang-Ping Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences and Sichuan People's Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China.
| | - De-Kui Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, Gansu Province, China.
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14
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Rodríguez-Lara A, Rueda-Robles A, Sáez-Lara MJ, Plaza-Diaz J, Álvarez-Mercado AI. From Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease to Liver Cancer: Microbiota and Inflammation as Key Players. Pathogens 2023; 12:940. [PMID: 37513787 PMCID: PMC10385788 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12070940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
It is estimated that 25% of the world's population has non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. This disease can advance to a more severe form, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), a disease with a greater probability of progression to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). NASH could be characterized as a necro-inflammatory complication of chronic hepatic steatosis. The combination of factors that lead to NASH and its progression to HCC in the setting of inflammation is not clearly understood. The portal vein is the main route of communication between the intestine and the liver. This allows the transfer of products derived from the intestine to the liver and the hepatic response pathway of bile and antibody secretion to the intestine. The intestinal microbiota performs a fundamental role in the regulation of immune function, but it can undergo changes that alter its functionality. These changes can also contribute to cancer by disrupting the immune system and causing chronic inflammation and immune dysfunction, both of which are implicated in cancer development. In this article, we address the link between inflammation, microbiota and HCC. We also review the different in vitro models, as well as recent clinical trials addressing liver cancer and microbiota.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avilene Rodríguez-Lara
- Center of Biomedical Research, Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology "José Mataix", University of Granada, Avda. del Conocimiento s/n., Armilla, 18016 Granada, Spain
| | - Ascensión Rueda-Robles
- Department of Nutrition and Food Science, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Granada,18071 Granada, Spain
| | - María José Sáez-Lara
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology I, School of Sciences, University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain
| | - Julio Plaza-Diaz
- Children's Hospital Eastern Ontario Research Institute, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L1, Canada
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Granada, 18014 Granada, Spain
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II, School of Pharmacy, University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain
| | - Ana I Álvarez-Mercado
- Center of Biomedical Research, Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology "José Mataix", University of Granada, Avda. del Conocimiento s/n., Armilla, 18016 Granada, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Granada, 18014 Granada, Spain
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II, School of Pharmacy, University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain
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15
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Papadakos SP, Ferraro D, Carbone G, Frampton AE, Vennarecci G, Kykalos S, Schizas D, Theocharis S, Machairas N. The Emerging Role of Metformin in the Treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Is There Any Value in Repurposing Metformin for HCC Immunotherapy? Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3161. [PMID: 37370771 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15123161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide. There has been significant progress in understanding the risk factors and epidemiology of HCC during the last few decades, resulting in efficient preventative, diagnostic and treatment strategies. Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has been demonstrated to be a major risk factor for developing HCC. Metformin is a widely used hypoglycemic agent for patients with T2DM and has been shown to play a potentially beneficial role in improving the survival of patients with HCC. Experimental and clinical studies evaluating the outcomes of metformin as an antineoplastic drug in the setting of HCC were reviewed. Pre-clinical evidence suggests that metformin may enhance the antitumor effects of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and reverse the effector T cells' exhaustion. However, there is still limited clinical evidence regarding the efficacy of metformin in combination with ICIs for the treatment of HCC. We appraised and analyzed in vitro and animal studies that aimed to elucidate the mechanisms of action of metformin, as well as clinical studies that assessed its impact on the survival of HCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stavros P Papadakos
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Daniele Ferraro
- HPB Surgery and Liver Transplant Unit, AORN A. Cardarelli, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Gabriele Carbone
- Department of General Surgery and Organ Transplantation, University of Rome "Sapienza", 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Adam Enver Frampton
- Department of Surgery & Cancer, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London W12 0NN, UK
- Oncology Section, Surrey Cancer Research Institute, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, FHMS, University of Surrey, The Leggett Building, Daphne Jackson Road, Guildford GU2 7WG, UK
- HPB Surgical Unit, Royal Surrey NHS Foundation Trust, Guildford GU2 7XX, UK
| | - Giovanni Vennarecci
- HPB Surgery and Liver Transplant Unit, AORN A. Cardarelli, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Stylianos Kykalos
- Second Department of Propaedeutic Surgery, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Laiko General Hospital, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitrios Schizas
- First Department of Surgery, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Laiko General Hospital, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Stamatios Theocharis
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Nikolaos Machairas
- Second Department of Propaedeutic Surgery, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Laiko General Hospital, 11527 Athens, Greece
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16
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Papadakos SP, Arvanitakis K, Stergiou IE, Lekakis V, Davakis S, Christodoulou MI, Germanidis G, Theocharis S. The Role of TLR4 in the Immunotherapy of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Can We Teach an Old Dog New Tricks? Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:2795. [PMID: 37345131 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15102795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of primary liver cancer and is a leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Immunotherapy has emerged as the mainstay treatment option for unresectable HCC. Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) plays a crucial role in the innate immune response by recognizing and responding primarily to bacterial lipopolysaccharides. In addition to its role in the innate immune system, TLR4 has also been implicated in adaptive immunity, including specific anti-tumor immune responses. In particular, the TLR4 signaling pathway seems to be involved in the regulation of several cancer hallmarks, such as the continuous activation of cellular pathways that promote cell division and growth, the inhibition of programmed cell death, the promotion of several invasion and metastatic mechanisms, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, angiogenesis, drug resistance, and epigenetic modifications. Emerging evidence further suggests that TLR4 signaling holds promise as a potential immunotherapeutic target in HCC. The aim of this review was to explore the multilayer aspects of the TLR4 signaling pathway, regarding its role in liver diseases and HCC, as well as its potential utilization as an immunotherapy target for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stavros P Papadakos
- First Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Arvanitakis
- First Department of Internal Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Basic and Translational Research Unit (BTRU), Special Unit for Biomedical Research and Education (BRESU), Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Ioanna E Stergiou
- Pathophysiology Department, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Vasileios Lekakis
- Department of Gastroenterology, Laiko General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Spyridon Davakis
- First Department of Surgery, Laiko General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Maria-Ioanna Christodoulou
- Tumor Immunology and Biomarkers Laboratory, Basic and Translational Cancer Research Center, Department of Life Sciences, European University Cyprus, Nicosia 2404, Cyprus
| | - Georgios Germanidis
- First Department of Internal Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Basic and Translational Research Unit (BTRU), Special Unit for Biomedical Research and Education (BRESU), Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Stamatios Theocharis
- First Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
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17
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Zhang B, Zhang B, Lai RC, Sim WK, Lam KP, Lim SK. MSC-sEV Treatment Polarizes Pro-Fibrotic M2 Macrophages without Exacerbating Liver Fibrosis in NASH. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24098092. [PMID: 37175803 PMCID: PMC10179074 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24098092] [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: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem/stromal cell small extracellular vesicles (MSC-sEVs) have shown promise in treating a wide range of animal models of various human diseases, which has led to their consideration for clinical translation. However, the possibility of contraindication for MSC-sEV use is an important consideration. One concern is that MSC-sEVs have been shown to induce M2 macrophage polarization, which is known to be pro-fibrotic, potentially indicating contraindication in fibrotic diseases such as liver fibrosis. Despite this concern, previous studies have shown that MSC-sEVs alleviate high-fat diet (HFD)-induced non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). To assess whether the pro-fibrotic M2 macrophage polarization induced by MSC-sEVs could worsen liver fibrosis, we first verified that our MSC-sEV preparations could promote M2 polarization in vitro prior to their administration in a mouse model of NASH. Our results showed that treatment with MSC-sEVs reduced or had comparable NAFLD Activity Scores and liver fibrosis compared to vehicle- and Telmisartan-treated animals, respectively. Although CD163+ M2 macrophages were increased in the liver, and serum IL-6 levels were reduced in MSC-sEV treated animals, our data suggests that MSC-sEV treatment was efficacious in reducing liver fibrosis in a mouse model of NASH despite an increase in pro-fibrotic M2 macrophage polarization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Zhang
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 61 Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Singapore 138673, Singapore
| | - Biyan Zhang
- Singapore Immunology Network (SIgN), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 8A Biomedical Grove, Immunos, Singapore 138648, Singapore
| | - Ruenn Chai Lai
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 61 Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Singapore 138673, Singapore
| | - Wei Kian Sim
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 61 Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Singapore 138673, Singapore
| | - Kong Peng Lam
- Singapore Immunology Network (SIgN), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 8A Biomedical Grove, Immunos, Singapore 138648, Singapore
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 5 Science Drive 2, Singapore 117545, Singapore
- School of Biological Sciences, College of Science, Nanyang Technological University, 60 Nanyang Drive, Singapore 637551, Singapore
| | - Sai Kiang Lim
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 61 Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Singapore 138673, Singapore
- Department of Surgery, YLL School of Medicine, NUS, 5 Lower Kent Ridge Road, Singapore 119074, Singapore
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18
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Overview of Cellular and Soluble Mediators in Systemic Inflammation Associated with Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032313. [PMID: 36768637 PMCID: PMC9916753 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is currently the most prevalent chronic liver disease in Western countries, affecting approximately 25% of the adult population. This condition encompasses a spectrum of liver diseases characterized by abnormal accumulation of fat in liver tissue (non-alcoholic fatty liver, NAFL) that can progress to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), characterized by the presence of liver inflammation and damage. The latter form often coexists with liver fibrosis which, in turn, may progress to a state of cirrhosis and, potentially, hepatocarcinoma, both irreversible processes that often lead to the patient's death and/or the need for liver transplantation. Along with the high associated economic burden, the high mortality rate among NAFLD patients raises interest, not only in the search for novel therapeutic approaches, but also in early diagnosis and prevention to reduce the incidence of NAFLD-related complications. In this line, an exhaustive characterization of the immune status of patients with NAFLD is mandatory. Herein, we attempted to gather and compare the current and relevant scientific evidence on this matter, mainly on human reports. We addressed the current knowledge related to circulating cellular and soluble mediators, particularly platelets, different leukocyte subsets and relevant inflammatory soluble mediators.
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19
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Zhang Y, Song J, Zhang Y, Li T, Peng J, Zhou H, Zong Z. Emerging Role of Neutrophil Extracellular Traps in Gastrointestinal Tumors: A Narrative Review. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 24:ijms24010334. [PMID: 36613779 PMCID: PMC9820455 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are extracellular fibrous networks consisting of depolymerized chromatin DNA skeletons with a variety of antimicrobial proteins. They are secreted by activated neutrophils and play key roles in host defense and immune responses. Gastrointestinal (GI) malignancies are globally known for their high mortality and morbidity. Increasing research suggests that NETs contribute to the progression and metastasis of digestive tract tumors, among them gastric, colon, liver, and pancreatic cancers. This article explores the formation of NETs and reviews the role that NETs play in the gastrointestinal oncologic microenvironment, tumor proliferation and metastasis, tumor-related thrombosis, and surgical stress. At the same time, we analyze the qualitative and quantitative detection methods of NETs in recent years and found that NETs are specific markers of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Then, we explore the possibility of NET inhibitors for the treatment of digestive tract tumor diseases to provide a new, efficient, and safe solution for the future therapy of gastrointestinal tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujun Zhang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, 1 MinDe Road, Nanchang 330006, China
- HuanKui Academy, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Jingjing Song
- Nanchang University School of Ophthalmology & Optometry, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Yiwei Zhang
- Queen Marry College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Ting Li
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Jie Peng
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, 1 MinDe Road, Nanchang 330006, China
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Haonan Zhou
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, 1 MinDe Road, Nanchang 330006, China
- Queen Marry College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Zhen Zong
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, 1 MinDe Road, Nanchang 330006, China
- Correspondence:
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20
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Fang J, Yu CH, Li XJ, Yao JM, Fang ZY, Yoon SH, Yu WY. Gut dysbiosis in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: pathogenesis, diagnosis, and therapeutic implications. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:997018. [PMID: 36425787 PMCID: PMC9679376 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.997018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 07/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The incidence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is increasing recently and has become one of the most common clinical liver diseases. Since the pathogenesis of NAFLD has not been completely elucidated, few effective therapeutic drugs are available. As the "second genome" of human body, gut microbiota plays an important role in the digestion, absorption and metabolism of food and drugs. Gut microbiota can act as an important driver to advance the occurrence and development of NAFLD, and to accelerate its progression to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Growing evidence has demonstrated that gut microbiota and its metabolites directly affect intestinal morphology and immune response, resulting in the abnormal activation of inflammation and intestinal endotoxemia; gut dysbiosis also causes dysfunction of gut-liver axis via alteration of bile acid metabolism pathway. Because of its composition diversity and disease-specific expression characteristics, gut microbiota holds strong promise as novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets for NAFLD. Intervening intestinal microbiota, such as antibiotic/probiotic treatment and fecal transplantation, has been a novel strategy for preventing and treating NAFLD. In this article, we have reviewed the emerging functions and association of gut bacterial components in different stages of NAFLD progression and discussed its potential implications in NAFLD diagnosis and therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Fang
- Zhejiang Provincial Laboratory of Experimental Animal’s & Nonclinical Laboratory Studies, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Chen-Huan Yu
- Institute of Cancer and Basic Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xue-Jian Li
- Zhejiang Provincial Laboratory of Experimental Animal’s & Nonclinical Laboratory Studies, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jin-Mei Yao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zheng-Yu Fang
- Zhejiang Provincial Laboratory of Experimental Animal’s & Nonclinical Laboratory Studies, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Soo-Hyun Yoon
- Institute of Medical Science, Wonkwang University, Iksan, South Korea
| | - Wen-Ying Yu
- Zhejiang Provincial Laboratory of Experimental Animal’s & Nonclinical Laboratory Studies, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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21
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Tanshinone IIA Ameliorates Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis in Mice by Modulating Neutrophil Extracellular Traps and Hepatocyte Apoptosis. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2022; 2022:5769350. [PMID: 36091584 PMCID: PMC9458403 DOI: 10.1155/2022/5769350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge, a traditional Chinese medicine, is widely used in the treatment of a variety of diseases and syndromes. Tanshinone IIA (TIIA), a phenanthrenequinone-class derivative extracted from S. miltiorrhiza, is one of its main active components and has anti-inflammatory effects on various tissues and cells. This study aimed to investigate the beneficial effects of TIIA on nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) induced in mice using a methionine choline deficiency (MCD) diet and the underlying mechanism of these. Our results reveal that TIIA remarkably ameliorated hepatic steatosis and inflammation and decreased the serum levels of liver dysfunction markers while increasing the levels of serum total cholesterol and triglycerides in MCD-fed mice. TIIA significantly reduced mRNA levels of the inflammatory factors TNF-α, IL-6, and TGF-β. Similarly, TIIA inhibited caspase-3 and Bax-mediated apoptosis in MCD-fed mice. Together, our data indicate that TIIA inhibits the formation of MPO and CitH3 in neutrophil extracellular traps and inhibits apoptosis mediated by caspase-3 and Bax in hepatocytes, thereby mitigating inflammatory progression in an MCD diet-induced NASH mouse model.
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