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Wang X, Liu H, Wang Y, Wang P, Yi Y, Lin Y, Li X. Novel protein C6ORF120 promotes liver fibrosis by activating hepatic stellate cells through the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2024; 39:1422-1430. [PMID: 38523410 DOI: 10.1111/jgh.16538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM The role of C6ORF120 in promoting CCL4-induced hepatic fibrosis and its possible mechanisms were explored in C6orf120 knockout rats (C6orf120-/-) and LX-2 cells (a type of human hepatic stellate cell line). METHODS In vivo experiments, wild-type and C6orf120-/- rats were used to investigate the function of C6ORF120. In the in vitro experiments, C6ORF120 recombinant protein (rC6ORF120) at a concentration of 200 ng/mL was used to stimulate LX-2 cells. Sirius Red staining, Masson staining, western blotting, polymerase chain reaction, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence were used to explore fibrosis-associated factors. RESULTS C6orf120-/- rats showed mild fibrosis and liver injury in the CCL4-induced liver fibrosis model. Furthermore, RNA-seq revealed that C6orf120-/- rats had less extracellular matrix deposition and activated stellate cells. Consistent with the in vivo, the rC6ORF120 induced LX-2 cell activation. Moreover, mechanistic studies revealed that the p-PI3K/PI3K, p-Akt/Akt, and p-mTOR/mTOR levels were significantly elevated and LY294002 (a PI3K/Akt/mTOR typical pathway inhibitor) reversed the function of C6ORF120 in activating LX-2 cells. CONCLUSION C6ORF120 could activate hepatic stellate cells and promote hepatic fibrosis via the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Wang
- Department of Center of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Peking University Ditan Teaching Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Hui Liu
- Department of Center of Infectious Disease, Beijing Ditan Hospital; Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yuqi Wang
- Department of Center of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Peng Wang
- Department of Center of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yunyun Yi
- Department of Center of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yingying Lin
- Department of Center of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Peking University Ditan Teaching Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xin Li
- Department of Center of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Peking University Ditan Teaching Hospital, Beijing, China
- Department of Center of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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2
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Wu K, Zhang G, Shen C, Zhu L, Yu C, Sartorius K, Ding W, Jiang Y, Lu Y. Role of T cells in liver metastasis. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:341. [PMID: 38755133 PMCID: PMC11099083 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06726-2] [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: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
The liver is a major metastatic site (organ) for gastrointestinal cancers (such as colorectal, gastric, and pancreatic cancers) as well as non-gastrointestinal cancers (such as lung, breast, and melanoma cancers). Due to the innate anatomical position of the liver, the apoptosis of T cells in the liver, the unique metabolic regulation of hepatocytes and other potential mechanisms, the liver tends to form an immunosuppressive microenvironment and subsequently form a pre-metastatic niche (PMN), which can promote metastasis and colonization by various tumor cells(TCs). As a result, the critical role of immunoresponse in liver based metastasis has become increasingly appreciated. T cells, a centrally important member of adaptive immune response, play a significant role in liver based metastases and clarifying the different roles of the various T cells subsets is important to guide future clinical treatment. In this review, we first introduce the predisposing factors and related mechanisms of liver metastasis (LM) before introducing the PMN and its transition to LM. Finally, we detail the role of different subsets of T cells in LM and advances in the management of LM in order to identify potential therapeutic targets for patients with LM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kejia Wu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, China
| | - Guozhu Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, China
- Department of Emergency Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, China
| | - Changbing Shen
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Taizhou Second People's Hospital Affiliated with Yangzhou University, Taizhou, China
| | - Li Zhu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, China
- Department of Emergency Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, China
| | - Chongyuan Yu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, China
| | - Kurt Sartorius
- School of Laboratory Medicine and Molecular Sciences, University of Kwazulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- Africa Hepatopancreatobiliary Cancer Consortium, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Wei Ding
- Department of General Surgery, Wujin Hospital Affiliated with Jiangsu University, Changzhou, China.
- Department of General Surgery, The Wujin Clinical College of Xuzhou Medical University, Changzhou, China.
- Changzhou Medical Center, Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou, China.
| | - Yong Jiang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, China.
| | - Yunjie Lu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China.
- Africa Hepatopancreatobiliary Cancer Consortium, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA.
- Department of General Surgery, Wujin Hospital Affiliated with Jiangsu University, Changzhou, China.
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3
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Smith-Cortinez N, Heegsma J, Podunavac M, Zakarian A, Cardenas JC, Faber KN. Novel Inositol 1,4,5-Trisphosphate Receptor Inhibitor Antagonizes Hepatic Stellate Cell Activation: A Potential Drug to Treat Liver Fibrosis. Cells 2024; 13:765. [PMID: 38727301 PMCID: PMC11083487 DOI: 10.3390/cells13090765] [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: 02/22/2024] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis, characterized by excessive extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition, can progress to cirrhosis and increases the risk of liver cancer. Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) play a pivotal role in fibrosis progression, transitioning from a quiescent to activated state upon liver injury, wherein they proliferate, migrate, and produce ECM. Calcium signaling, involving the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (IP3R), regulates HSC activation. This study investigated the efficacy of a novel IP3R inhibitor, desmethylxestospongin B (dmXeB), in preventing HSC activation. Freshly isolated rat HSCs were activated in vitro in the presence of varying dmXeB concentrations. The dmXeB effectively inhibited HSC proliferation, migration, and expression of fibrosis markers without toxicity to the primary rat hepatocytes or human liver organoids. Furthermore, dmXeB preserved the quiescent phenotype of HSCs marked by retained vitamin A storage. Mechanistically, dmXeB suppressed mitochondrial respiration in activated HSCs while enhancing glycolytic activity. Notably, methyl pyruvate, dimethyl α-ketoglutarate, and nucleoside supplementation all individually restored HSC proliferation despite dmXeB treatment. Overall, dmXeB demonstrates promising anti-fibrotic effects by inhibiting HSC activation via IP3R antagonism without adverse effects on other liver cells. These findings highlight dmXeB as a potential therapeutic agent for liver fibrosis treatment, offering a targeted approach to mitigate liver fibrosis progression and its associated complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Smith-Cortinez
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen (UMCG), 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Janette Heegsma
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen (UMCG), 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Masa Podunavac
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, Oakland, CA 94607, USA
| | - Armen Zakarian
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, Oakland, CA 94607, USA
| | - J. César Cardenas
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, Oakland, CA 94607, USA
- Center for Integrative Biology, Universidad Mayor, Santiago 7510041, Chile
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, CA 94945, USA
| | - Klaas Nico Faber
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen (UMCG), 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
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4
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Raymant M, Astuti Y, Alvaro-Espinosa L, Green D, Quaranta V, Bellomo G, Glenn M, Chandran-Gorner V, Palmer DH, Halloran C, Ghaneh P, Henderson NC, Morton JP, Valiente M, Mielgo A, Schmid MC. Macrophage-fibroblast JAK/STAT dependent crosstalk promotes liver metastatic outgrowth in pancreatic cancer. Nat Commun 2024; 15:3593. [PMID: 38678021 PMCID: PMC11055860 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-47949-3] [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: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a highly metastatic disease for which better therapies are urgently needed. Fibroblasts and macrophages are heterogeneous cell populations able to enhance metastasis, but the role of a macrophage-fibroblast crosstalk in regulating their pro-metastatic functions remains poorly understood. Here we deconvolve how macrophages regulate metastasis-associated fibroblast (MAF) heterogeneity in the liver. We identify three functionally distinct MAF populations, among which the generation of pro-metastatic and immunoregulatory myofibroblastic-MAFs (myMAFs) critically depends on macrophages. Mechanistically, myMAFs are induced through a STAT3-dependent mechanism driven by macrophage-derived progranulin and cancer cell-secreted leukaemia inhibitory factor (LIF). In a reciprocal manner, myMAF secreted osteopontin promotes an immunosuppressive macrophage phenotype resulting in the inhibition of cytotoxic T cell functions. Pharmacological blockade of STAT3 or myMAF-specific genetic depletion of STAT3 restores an anti-tumour immune response and reduces metastases. Our findings provide molecular insights into the complex macrophage-fibroblast interactions in tumours and reveal potential targets to inhibit PDAC liver metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meirion Raymant
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, Ashton Street, Liverpool, L69 3GE, UK
| | - Yuliana Astuti
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, Ashton Street, Liverpool, L69 3GE, UK
| | - Laura Alvaro-Espinosa
- Brain Metastasis Group, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO), Madrid, Spain
| | - Daniel Green
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, Ashton Street, Liverpool, L69 3GE, UK
| | - Valeria Quaranta
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, Ashton Street, Liverpool, L69 3GE, UK
| | - Gaia Bellomo
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, Ashton Street, Liverpool, L69 3GE, UK
| | - Mark Glenn
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, Ashton Street, Liverpool, L69 3GE, UK
| | - Vatshala Chandran-Gorner
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, Ashton Street, Liverpool, L69 3GE, UK
| | - Daniel H Palmer
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, Ashton Street, Liverpool, L69 3GE, UK
| | - Christopher Halloran
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, Ashton Street, Liverpool, L69 3GE, UK
| | - Paula Ghaneh
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, Ashton Street, Liverpool, L69 3GE, UK
| | - Neil C Henderson
- Centre for Inflammation Research, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh BioQuarter, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ, UK
- MRC Human Genetics Unit, Institute of Genetics and Cancer, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Jennifer P Morton
- Cancer Research-UK Scotland Institute and School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Switchback Road, Glasgow, G61 1BD, UK
| | - Manuel Valiente
- Brain Metastasis Group, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO), Madrid, Spain
| | - Ainhoa Mielgo
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, Ashton Street, Liverpool, L69 3GE, UK
| | - Michael C Schmid
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, Ashton Street, Liverpool, L69 3GE, UK.
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5
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Yamagata M, Tsuchishima M, Saito T, Tsutsumi M, George J. Therapeutic implication of human placental extract to prevent liver cirrhosis in rats with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis. Clin Sci (Lond) 2024; 138:327-349. [PMID: 38381799 DOI: 10.1042/cs20230533] [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: 05/19/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) is always accompanied with hepatic fibrosis that could potentially progress to liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Employing a rat model, we evaluated the role of human placental extract (HPE) to arrest the progression of hepatic fibrosis to cirrhosis in patients with MASH. SHRSP5/Dmcr rats were fed with a high-fat and high-cholesterol diet for 4 weeks and evaluated for the development of steatosis. The animals were divided into control and treated groups and received either saline or HPE (3.6 ml/kg body weight) subcutaneously thrice a week. A set of animals were killed at the end of 6th, 8th, and 12th weeks from the beginning of the experiment. Serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), hepatic malondialdehyde (MDA), and glutathione content were measured. Immunohistochemical staining was performed for α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal (4-HNE), collagen type I, and type III. Control rats depicted progression of liver fibrosis at 6 weeks, advanced fibrosis and bridging at 8 weeks, and cirrhosis at 12 weeks, which were significantly decreased in HPE-treated animals. Treatment with HPE maintained normal levels of MDA and glutathione in the liver. There was marked decrease in the staining intensity of α-SMA, 4-HNE, and collagen type I and type III in HPE treated rats compared with control animals. The results of the present study indicated that HPE treatment mediates immunotropic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant responses and attenuates hepatic fibrosis and early cirrhosis. HPE depicts therapeutic potential to arrest the progression of MASH towards cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitsuyoshi Yamagata
- Department of Hepatology, Kanazawa Medical University, Uchinada, Ishikawa 920-0293, Japan
| | - Mutsumi Tsuchishima
- Department of Hepatology, Kanazawa Medical University, Uchinada, Ishikawa 920-0293, Japan
| | - Takashi Saito
- Department of Hepatology, Kanazawa Medical University, Uchinada, Ishikawa 920-0293, Japan
| | - Mikihiro Tsutsumi
- Department of Hepatology, Kanazawa Medical University, Uchinada, Ishikawa 920-0293, Japan
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Kanazawa Medical University Hospital, Uchinada, Ishikawa 920-0293, Japan
| | - Joseph George
- Department of Hepatology, Kanazawa Medical University, Uchinada, Ishikawa 920-0293, Japan
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Kanazawa Medical University Hospital, Uchinada, Ishikawa 920-0293, Japan
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6
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An Y, Xu C, Liu W, Jiang J, Ye P, Yang M, Zhu W, Yu J, Yu M, Sun W, Hong J, Qiu H, Wei W, Zhang S. Angiotensin II type-2 receptor attenuates liver fibrosis progression by suppressing IRE1α-XBP1 pathway. Cell Signal 2024; 113:110935. [PMID: 37866666 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2023.110935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) has been recognized as a crucial contributor to the development of liver fibrosis, and AT2R, an essential component of RAS, is involved in the progression of liver fibrosis. However, the underlying mechanisms by which AT2R modulates liver fibrosis remain elusive. Here, we report that AT2R was induced to be highly expressed during the progression of liver fibrosis, and the elevated AT2R attenuates liver fibrosis by suppressing IRE1α-XBP1 pathway. In this study, we found that AT2R is not expressed in the no cirrhotic adult liver, but is induced expression during liver fibrosis in both cirrhotic patients and fibrotic mice models. Upregulated AT2R inhibits the activation and proliferation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). In addition, our study showed that during liver fibrosis, AT2R deletion increased the dimerization activation of IRE1α and promoted XBP1 splicing, and the spliced XBP1s could promote their transcription by binding to the AT2R promoter and repress the IRE1α-XBP1 axis, forming an AT2R-IRE1α-XBP1 negative feedback loop. Importantly, the combination treatment of an AT2R agonist and an endoplasmic reticulum stress (ER stress) alleviator significantly attenuated liver fibrosis in a mouse model of liver fibrosis. Therefore, we conclude that the AT2R-IRE1α signaling pathway can regulate the progression of liver fibrosis, and AT2R is a new potential therapeutic target for treating liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue An
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University; Key Laboratory of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Centre of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Changyong Xu
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University; Key Laboratory of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Centre of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Wenmin Liu
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University; Key Laboratory of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Centre of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Ji Jiang
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University; Key Laboratory of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Centre of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Pengfei Ye
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University; Key Laboratory of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Centre of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Mei Yang
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University; Key Laboratory of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Centre of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Weihua Zhu
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University; Key Laboratory of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Centre of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Jingjing Yu
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University; Key Laboratory of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Centre of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Manman Yu
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University; Key Laboratory of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Centre of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Wuyi Sun
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University; Key Laboratory of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Centre of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Jian Hong
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Huan Qiu
- School of Nursing, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China.
| | - Wei Wei
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University; Key Laboratory of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Centre of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Hefei 230032, China.
| | - Shihao Zhang
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University; Key Laboratory of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Centre of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Hefei 230032, China.
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7
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Kishinaka S, Kawashita E, Nishizaki T, Ishihara K, Akiba S. Group IVA Phospholipase A 2 in Collagen-Producing Cells Promotes High-Fat Diet-Induced Infiltration of Inflammatory Cells into the Liver by Upregulating the Expression of MCP-1. Biol Pharm Bull 2024; 47:1058-1065. [PMID: 38825533 DOI: 10.1248/bpb.b24-00035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is characterized by hepatic inflammation and fibrosis due to excessive fat accumulation. Monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) is a key chemokine that infiltrates inflammatory cells into the liver during the development of NASH. Our previous studies demonstrated that a systemic deficiency of group IVA phospholipase A2 (IVA-PLA2), an enzyme that contributes to the production of lipid inflammatory mediators, protects mice against high-fat diet-induced hepatic fibrosis and markedly suppresses the CCl4-induced expression of MCP-1 in the liver. However, it remains unclear which cell types harboring IVA-PLA2 are involved in the elevated production of MCP-1. Hence, the present study assessed the types of cells responsible for IVA-PLA2-mediated production of MCP-1 using cultured hepatic stellate cells, endothelial cells, macrophages, and hepatocytes, as well as cell-type specific IVA-PLA2 deficient mice fed a high-fat diet. A relatively specific inhibitor of IVA-PLA2 markedly suppressed the expression of MCP-1 mRNA in cultured hepatic stellate cells, but the suppression of MCP-1 expression was partial in endothelial cells and not observed in monocytes/macrophages or hepatocytes. In contrast, a deficiency of IVA-PLA2 in collagen-producing cells (hepatic stellate cells), but not in other types of cells, reduced the high-fat diet-induced expression of MCP-1 and inflammatory cell infiltration in the liver. Our results suggest that IVA-PLA2 in hepatic stellate cells is critical for hepatic inflammation in the high-fat diet-induced development of NASH. This supports a potential therapeutic approach for NASH using a IVA-PLA2 inhibitor targeting hepatic stellate cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saki Kishinaka
- Laboratory of Pathological Biochemistry, Kyoto Pharmaceutical University
| | - Eri Kawashita
- Laboratory of Pathological Biochemistry, Kyoto Pharmaceutical University
| | - Taichi Nishizaki
- Laboratory of Pathological Biochemistry, Kyoto Pharmaceutical University
| | - Keiichi Ishihara
- Laboratory of Pathological Biochemistry, Kyoto Pharmaceutical University
| | - Satoshi Akiba
- Laboratory of Pathological Biochemistry, Kyoto Pharmaceutical University
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8
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Zhu Y, Kang A, Kuai Y, Guo Y, Miao X, Zhu L, Kong M, Li N. The chromatin remodeling protein BRG1 regulates HSC-myofibroblast differentiation and liver fibrosis. Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:826. [PMID: 38092723 PMCID: PMC10719330 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-06351-5] [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: 01/03/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Excessive fibrogenic response in the liver disrupts normal hepatic anatomy and function heralding such end-stage liver diseases as hepatocellular carcinoma and cirrhosis. Myofibroblasts, derived primarily from hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), are the effector of liver fibrosis. In the present study we investigated the mechanism by which Brahma-related gene 1 (BRG1, encoded by Smarca4) regulates HSC-myofibroblast transition and the implication in intervention against liver fibrosis. We report that BRG1 expression was elevated during HSC maturation in cell culture, in animal models, and in human cirrhotic liver biopsy specimens. HSC-specific deletion of BRG1 attenuated liver fibrosis in several different animal models. In addition, BRG1 ablation in myofibroblasts ameliorated liver fibrosis. RNA-seq identified IGFBP5 as a novel target for BRG1. Over-expression of IGFBP5 partially rescued the deficiency in myofibroblast activation when BRG1 was depleted. On the contrary, IGFBP5 knockdown suppressed HSC-myofibroblast transition in vitro and mollified liver fibrosis in mice. Mechanistically, IGFBP5 interacted with Bat3 to stabilize the Bat3-TβR complex and sustain TGF-β signaling. In conclusion, our data provide compelling evidence that BRG1 is a pivotal regulator of liver fibrosis by programming HSC-myofibroblast transition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuwen Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Targeted Intervention of Cardiovascular Disease and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cardiovascular Translational Medicine, Departments of Pathophysiology and Human Anatomy, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Aoqi Kang
- Key Laboratory of Targeted Intervention of Cardiovascular Disease and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cardiovascular Translational Medicine, Departments of Pathophysiology and Human Anatomy, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yameng Kuai
- Key Laboratory of Targeted Intervention of Cardiovascular Disease and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cardiovascular Translational Medicine, Departments of Pathophysiology and Human Anatomy, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yan Guo
- College of Life Sciences and Institute of Biomedical Research, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng, China
| | - Xiulian Miao
- College of Life Sciences and Institute of Biomedical Research, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng, China
| | - Li Zhu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, China.
| | - Ming Kong
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Pharmacology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China.
| | - Nan Li
- Key Laboratory of Targeted Intervention of Cardiovascular Disease and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cardiovascular Translational Medicine, Departments of Pathophysiology and Human Anatomy, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.
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9
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Park HJ, Choi J, Kim H, Yang DY, An TH, Lee EW, Han BS, Lee SC, Kim WK, Bae KH, Oh KJ. Cellular heterogeneity and plasticity during NAFLD progression. Front Mol Biosci 2023; 10:1221669. [PMID: 37635938 PMCID: PMC10450943 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2023.1221669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a progressive liver disease that can progress to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), NASH-related cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). NAFLD ranges from simple steatosis (or nonalcoholic fatty liver [NAFL]) to NASH as a progressive form of NAFL, which is characterized by steatosis, lobular inflammation, and hepatocellular ballooning with or without fibrosis. Because of the complex pathophysiological mechanism and the heterogeneity of NAFLD, including its wide spectrum of clinical and histological characteristics, no specific therapeutic drugs have been approved for NAFLD. The heterogeneity of NAFLD is closely associated with cellular plasticity, which describes the ability of cells to acquire new identities or change their phenotypes in response to environmental stimuli. The liver consists of parenchymal cells including hepatocytes and cholangiocytes and nonparenchymal cells including Kupffer cells, hepatic stellate cells, and endothelial cells, all of which have specialized functions. This heterogeneous cell population has cellular plasticity to adapt to environmental changes. During NAFLD progression, these cells can exert diverse and complex responses at multiple levels following exposure to a variety of stimuli, including fatty acids, inflammation, and oxidative stress. Therefore, this review provides insights into NAFLD heterogeneity by addressing the cellular plasticity and metabolic adaptation of hepatocytes, cholangiocytes, hepatic stellate cells, and Kupffer cells during NAFLD progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun-Ju Park
- Metabolic Regulation Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- Department of Functional Genomics, KRIBB School of Bioscience, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Juyoung Choi
- Metabolic Regulation Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- Department of Functional Genomics, KRIBB School of Bioscience, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyunmi Kim
- Metabolic Regulation Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- Department of Functional Genomics, KRIBB School of Bioscience, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Da-Yeon Yang
- Metabolic Regulation Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- Department of Functional Genomics, KRIBB School of Bioscience, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae Hyeon An
- Metabolic Regulation Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- Department of Functional Genomics, KRIBB School of Bioscience, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun-Woo Lee
- Metabolic Regulation Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- Department of Functional Genomics, KRIBB School of Bioscience, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Baek-Soo Han
- Department of Functional Genomics, KRIBB School of Bioscience, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- Biodefense Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Chul Lee
- Metabolic Regulation Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- Department of Functional Genomics, KRIBB School of Bioscience, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Won Kon Kim
- Metabolic Regulation Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- Department of Functional Genomics, KRIBB School of Bioscience, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwang-Hee Bae
- Metabolic Regulation Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- Department of Functional Genomics, KRIBB School of Bioscience, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyoung-Jin Oh
- Metabolic Regulation Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- Department of Functional Genomics, KRIBB School of Bioscience, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
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10
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Dong Y, Liu Y, Liu X, Ma H, Liu Y, Lv G, Niu J. Multi-omics profiling of primary hepatic stellate cells from advanced liver fibrosis patients reveals distinctive molecular signatures. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 38:1416-1425. [PMID: 37226284 DOI: 10.1111/jgh.16221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2023] [Revised: 04/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Hepatic fibrosis is a common pathogenic outcome of almost all chronic liver diseases and a growing public health problem globally. However, the key genes or proteins driving liver fibrosis and cirrhosis are not well understood. We aimed to identify novel hepatic fibrosis genes of human primary hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). METHODS Human primary HSCs were isolated from surgically resected advanced fibrosis liver tissues (n = 6) and surgical resection of normal liver tissue around hemangioma (n = 5). Differences in the expression levels of mRNA and proteins from HSCs in advanced fibrosis group and the control group were analyzed using RNA sequencing and mass spectrometry as transcriptomic and proteomic approaches. The obtained biomarkers were further validated through real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), immunofluorescence, and Western blot. RESULTS A total of 2156 transcripts and 711 proteins were found to be differently expressed between the advanced fibrosis group and the control group patients. The Venn diagram shows that a total of 96 upregulated molecules are overlapped in both the transcriptomic and proteomic datasets. Gene Ontology enrichment analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analysis indicated that those overlapped genes were mainly involved in wound healing, cell adhesion regulation, and actin binding, which reflects the major biological conversions in liver cirrhosis process. Pyruvate kinase M2 and EH domain-containing 2 were identified as potential new markers for advanced liver cirrhosis, which have been validated in primary human HSCs and in vitro cellular hepatic fibrosis model Lieming Xu-2 (LX-2) cells. CONCLUSIONS Our results revealed the major transcriptomic and proteomic changes during liver cirrhosis process and identified new biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets for advanced liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutong Dong
- Department of Hepatology, Center of Infectious Diseases and Pathogen Biology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research, Ministry of Education, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yuwei Liu
- Department of Hepatology, Center of Infectious Diseases and Pathogen Biology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xu Liu
- Department of Hepatology, Center of Infectious Diseases and Pathogen Biology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Heming Ma
- Department of Hepatology, Center of Infectious Diseases and Pathogen Biology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yahui Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, General Surgery Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Guoyue Lv
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, General Surgery Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Junqi Niu
- Department of Hepatology, Center of Infectious Diseases and Pathogen Biology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research, Ministry of Education, Jilin University, Changchun, China
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11
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Otumala AE, Hellen DJ, Luna CA, Delgado P, Dissanayaka A, Ugwumadu C, Oshinowo O, Islam MM, Shen L, Karpen SJ, Myers DR. Opportunities and considerations for studying liver disease with microphysiological systems on a chip. LAB ON A CHIP 2023; 23:2877-2898. [PMID: 37282629 DOI: 10.1039/d2lc00940d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Advances in microsystem engineering have enabled the development of highly controlled models of the liver that better recapitulate the unique in vivo biological conditions. In just a few short years, substantial progress has been made in creating complex mono- and multi-cellular models that mimic key metabolic, structural, and oxygen gradients crucial for liver function. Here we review: 1) the state-of-the-art in liver-centric microphysiological systems and 2) the array of liver diseases and pressing biological and therapeutic challenges which could be investigated with these systems. The engineering community has unique opportunities to innovate with new liver-on-a-chip devices and partner with biomedical researchers to usher in a new era of understanding of the molecular and cellular contributors to liver diseases and identify and test rational therapeutic modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adiya E Otumala
- The Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology & Emory University, 1760 Haygood Dr, Suite E-160, Rm E-156, Atlanta, GA, 30332, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Aflac Cancer Center and Blood Disorders Service of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Dominick J Hellen
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Emory University School of Medicine, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - C Alessandra Luna
- The Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology & Emory University, 1760 Haygood Dr, Suite E-160, Rm E-156, Atlanta, GA, 30332, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Aflac Cancer Center and Blood Disorders Service of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Priscilla Delgado
- The Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology & Emory University, 1760 Haygood Dr, Suite E-160, Rm E-156, Atlanta, GA, 30332, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Aflac Cancer Center and Blood Disorders Service of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Anjana Dissanayaka
- The Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology & Emory University, 1760 Haygood Dr, Suite E-160, Rm E-156, Atlanta, GA, 30332, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Aflac Cancer Center and Blood Disorders Service of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Chidozie Ugwumadu
- The Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology & Emory University, 1760 Haygood Dr, Suite E-160, Rm E-156, Atlanta, GA, 30332, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Aflac Cancer Center and Blood Disorders Service of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Oluwamayokun Oshinowo
- The Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology & Emory University, 1760 Haygood Dr, Suite E-160, Rm E-156, Atlanta, GA, 30332, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Aflac Cancer Center and Blood Disorders Service of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Md Mydul Islam
- The Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology & Emory University, 1760 Haygood Dr, Suite E-160, Rm E-156, Atlanta, GA, 30332, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Aflac Cancer Center and Blood Disorders Service of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Luyao Shen
- The Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology & Emory University, 1760 Haygood Dr, Suite E-160, Rm E-156, Atlanta, GA, 30332, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Aflac Cancer Center and Blood Disorders Service of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Saul J Karpen
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Emory University School of Medicine, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - David R Myers
- The Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology & Emory University, 1760 Haygood Dr, Suite E-160, Rm E-156, Atlanta, GA, 30332, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Aflac Cancer Center and Blood Disorders Service of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
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12
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Trinh VQH, Lee TF, Lemoinne S, Ray KC, Ybanez MD, Tsuchida T, Carter JK, Agudo J, Brown BD, Akat KM, Friedman SL, Lee YA. Hepatic stellate cells maintain liver homeostasis through paracrine neurotrophin-3 signaling that induces hepatocyte proliferation. Sci Signal 2023; 16:eadf6696. [PMID: 37253090 PMCID: PMC10367116 DOI: 10.1126/scisignal.adf6696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Organ size is maintained by the controlled proliferation of distinct cell populations. In the mouse liver, hepatocytes in the midlobular zone that are positive for cyclin D1 (CCND1) repopulate the parenchyma at a constant rate to preserve liver mass. Here, we investigated how hepatocyte proliferation is supported by hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), pericytes that are in close proximity to hepatocytes. We used T cells to ablate nearly all HSCs in the murine liver, enabling the unbiased characterization of HSC functions. In the normal liver, complete loss of HSCs persisted for up to 10 weeks and caused a gradual reduction in liver mass and in the number of CCND1+ hepatocytes. We identified neurotrophin-3 (Ntf-3) as an HSC-produced factor that induced the proliferation of midlobular hepatocytes through the activation of tropomyosin receptor kinase B (TrkB). Treating HSC-depleted mice with Ntf-3 restored CCND1+ hepatocytes in the midlobular region and increased liver mass. These findings establish that HSCs form the mitogenic niche for midlobular hepatocytes and identify Ntf-3 as a hepatocyte growth factor.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ting-Fang Lee
- Department of Surgery, Vanderbilt University Medical Center; Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Sara Lemoinne
- Division of Liver Diseases, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai; New York, NY, USA
| | - Kevin C. Ray
- Department of Surgery, Vanderbilt University Medical Center; Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Maria D. Ybanez
- Division of Liver Diseases, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai; New York, NY, USA
| | - Takuma Tsuchida
- Division of Liver Diseases, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai; New York, NY, USA
| | - James K. Carter
- Division of Liver Diseases, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai; New York, NY, USA
| | - Judith Agudo
- Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA, USA
| | - Brian D. Brown
- Icahn Genomics Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Kemal M. Akat
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center; Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Scott L. Friedman
- Division of Liver Diseases, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai; New York, NY, USA
| | - Youngmin A. Lee
- Department of Surgery, Vanderbilt University Medical Center; Nashville, TN, USA
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13
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Kimura Y, Koyama Y, Taura K, Kudoh A, Echizen K, Nakamura D, Li X, Nam NH, Uemoto Y, Nishio T, Yamamoto G, Seo S, Iwaisako K, Watanabe A, Hatano E. Characterization and role of collagen gene expressing hepatic cells following partial hepatectomy in mice. Hepatology 2023; 77:443-455. [PMID: 35603471 DOI: 10.1002/hep.32586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Revised: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS The mechanism underlying liver regeneration following partial hepatectomy (PH) is not fully elucidated. We aimed to characterize collagen gene expressing hepatic cells following PH and examine their contribution to liver regeneration. APPROACH AND RESULTS Col-GFP mice, which express GFP under the control of the collagen gene promoter, were used to detect collagen gene expressing cells following PH. The GFP-expressing cells were analyzed via single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq). Additionally, Col-ER Cre/RFP and Col-ER Cre/DTA mice were utilized to examine the cell fates and functional roles of collagen gene expressing cells in liver regeneration, respectively. The number of collagen gene expressing cells was found to be increased on day 3 and subsequently decreased on day 7 following PH. ScRNA-seq analysis of sorted collagen gene expressing cells showed that the regenerating liver was characterized by three distinct hepatic stellate cell (HSC) clusters, including one representing classic myofibroblasts. The other HSC clusters included an intermediately activated HSC cluster and a proliferating HSC cluster. Of these, the latter cluster was absent in the CCl 4 -induced liver fibrosis model. Cell fate tracing analysis using Col-ER Cre/RFP mice demonstrated that the collagen gene expressing cells escaped death during regeneration and remained in an inactivated state in the liver. Further, depletion of these cells using Col-ER Cre/DTA mice resulted in impaired liver regeneration. CONCLUSIONS Heterogeneous HSC clusters, one of which was a unique proliferating cluster, were found to appear in the liver following PH. Collagen gene expressing cells, including HSCs, were found to promote liver regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusuke Kimura
- Division of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery and Transplantation , Department of Surgery , Graduate school of Medicine, Kyoto University , Kyoto , Japan
| | - Yukinori Koyama
- Division of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery and Transplantation , Department of Surgery , Graduate school of Medicine, Kyoto University , Kyoto , Japan
| | - Kojiro Taura
- Division of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery and Transplantation , Department of Surgery , Graduate school of Medicine, Kyoto University , Kyoto , Japan
| | - Aoi Kudoh
- Department of Medical Innovation Center , Kyoto University , Kyoto , Japan
| | - Kanae Echizen
- Department of Medical Innovation Center , Kyoto University , Kyoto , Japan
| | - Daichi Nakamura
- Division of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery and Transplantation , Department of Surgery , Graduate school of Medicine, Kyoto University , Kyoto , Japan
| | - Xuefeng Li
- Division of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery and Transplantation , Department of Surgery , Graduate school of Medicine, Kyoto University , Kyoto , Japan
| | - Nguyen Hai Nam
- Division of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery and Transplantation , Department of Surgery , Graduate school of Medicine, Kyoto University , Kyoto , Japan
| | - Yusuke Uemoto
- Division of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery and Transplantation , Department of Surgery , Graduate school of Medicine, Kyoto University , Kyoto , Japan
| | - Takahiro Nishio
- Division of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery and Transplantation , Department of Surgery , Graduate school of Medicine, Kyoto University , Kyoto , Japan
| | - Gen Yamamoto
- Division of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery and Transplantation , Department of Surgery , Graduate school of Medicine, Kyoto University , Kyoto , Japan
| | - Satoru Seo
- Division of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery and Transplantation , Department of Surgery , Graduate school of Medicine, Kyoto University , Kyoto , Japan
| | - Keiko Iwaisako
- Department of Medical Life Systems , Doshisha University , Kyoto , Japan
| | - Akira Watanabe
- Department of Medical Innovation Center , Kyoto University , Kyoto , Japan
| | - Etsuro Hatano
- Division of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery and Transplantation , Department of Surgery , Graduate school of Medicine, Kyoto University , Kyoto , Japan
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14
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Yang M, Qi X, Li N, Kaifi JT, Chen S, Wheeler AA, Kimchi ET, Ericsson AC, Rector RS, Staveley-O'Carroll KF, Li G. Western diet contributes to the pathogenesis of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis in male mice via remodeling gut microbiota and increasing production of 2-oleoylglycerol. Nat Commun 2023; 14:228. [PMID: 36646715 PMCID: PMC9842745 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-35861-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The interplay between western diet and gut microbiota drives the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and its progression to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. However, the specific microbial and metabolic mediators contributing to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis remain to be identified. Here, a choline-low high-fat and high-sugar diet, representing a typical western diet, named CL-HFS, successfully induces male mouse non-alcoholic steatohepatitis with some features of the human disease, such as hepatic inflammation, steatosis, and fibrosis. Metataxonomic and metabolomic studies identify Blautia producta and 2-oleoylglycerol as clinically relevant bacterial and metabolic mediators contributing to CL-HFS-induced non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. In vivo studies validate that both Blautia producta and 2-oleoylglycerol promote liver inflammation and hepatic fibrosis in normal diet- or CL-HFS-fed mice. Cellular and molecular studies reveal that the GPR119/TAK1/NF-κB/TGF-β1 signaling pathway mediates 2-oleoylglycerol-induced macrophage priming and subsequent hepatic stellate cell activation. These findings advance our understanding of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis pathogenesis and provide targets for developing microbiome/metabolite-based therapeutic strategies against non-alcoholic steatohepatitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Yang
- Department of Surgery, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65212, USA
| | - Xiaoqiang Qi
- Department of Surgery, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65212, USA
| | - Nan Li
- Department of Surgery, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65212, USA
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, 110001, China
| | - Jussuf T Kaifi
- Department of Surgery, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65212, USA
- Ellis Fischel Cancer Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65212, USA
- Harry S. Truman Memorial VA Hospital, Columbia, MO, 65201, USA
| | - Shiyou Chen
- Department of Surgery, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65212, USA
| | - Andrew A Wheeler
- Department of Surgery, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65212, USA
| | - Eric T Kimchi
- Department of Surgery, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65212, USA
- Ellis Fischel Cancer Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65212, USA
- Harry S. Truman Memorial VA Hospital, Columbia, MO, 65201, USA
| | - Aaron C Ericsson
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65212, USA
| | - R Scott Rector
- Department of Nutrition and Exercise Physiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65212, USA
- Department of Medicine-Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65212, USA
| | - Kevin F Staveley-O'Carroll
- Department of Surgery, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65212, USA.
- Ellis Fischel Cancer Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65212, USA.
- Harry S. Truman Memorial VA Hospital, Columbia, MO, 65201, USA.
| | - Guangfu Li
- Department of Surgery, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65212, USA.
- Ellis Fischel Cancer Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65212, USA.
- Harry S. Truman Memorial VA Hospital, Columbia, MO, 65201, USA.
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65212, USA.
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15
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Lee HJ, Mun SJ, Jung CR, Kang HM, Kwon JE, Ryu JS, Ahn HS, Kwon OS, Ahn J, Moon KS, Son MJ, Chung KS. In vitro modeling of liver fibrosis with 3D co-culture system using a novel human hepatic stellate cell line. Biotechnol Bioeng 2023; 120:1241-1253. [PMID: 36639871 DOI: 10.1002/bit.28333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) play an important role in liver fibrosis; however, owing to the heterogeneity and limited supply of primary HSCs, the development of in vitro liver fibrosis models has been impeded. In this study, we established and characterized a novel human HSC line (LSC-1), and applied it to various types of three-dimensional (3D) co-culture systems with differentiated HepaRG cells. Furthermore, we compared LSC-1 with a commercially available HSC line on conventional monolayer culture. LSC-1 exhibited an overall upregulation of the expression of fibrogenic genes along with increased levels of matrix and adhesion proteins, suggesting a myofibroblast-like or transdifferentiated state. However, activated states reverted to a quiescent-like phenotype when cultured in different 3D culture formats with a relatively soft microenvironment. Additionally, LSC-1 exerted an overall positive effect on co-cultured differentiated HepaRG, which significantly increased hepatic functionality upon long-term cultivation compared with that achieved with other HSC line. In 3D spheroid culture, LSC-1 exhibited enhanced responsiveness to transforming growth factor beta 1 exposure that is caused by a different matrix-related protein expression mechanism. Therefore, the LSC-1 line developed in this study provides a reliable candidate model that can be used to address unmet needs, such as development of antifibrotic therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ho-Joon Lee
- Stem Cell Convergence Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Seon Ju Mun
- Stem Cell Convergence Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, Republic of Korea.,Department of Functional Genomics, Korea University of Science & Technology (UST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Cho-Rok Jung
- Stem Cell Convergence Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, Republic of Korea.,Department of Functional Genomics, Korea University of Science & Technology (UST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun-Mi Kang
- Stem Cell Convergence Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Eun Kwon
- Stem Cell Convergence Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, Republic of Korea.,Department of Functional Genomics, Korea University of Science & Technology (UST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Sung Ryu
- Stem Cell Convergence Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyo-Suk Ahn
- Stem Cell Convergence Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Ok-Seon Kwon
- Stem Cell Convergence Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jiwon Ahn
- Stem Cell Convergence Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung-Sik Moon
- General and Applied Toxicology Research Center, Korea Institute of Toxicology (KIT), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Myung Jin Son
- Stem Cell Convergence Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, Republic of Korea.,Department of Functional Genomics, Korea University of Science & Technology (UST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung-Sook Chung
- Stem Cell Convergence Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, Republic of Korea.,Department of Functional Genomics, Korea University of Science & Technology (UST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
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16
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Oxy210, a Semi-Synthetic Oxysterol, Inhibits Profibrotic Signaling in Cellular Models of Lung and Kidney Fibrosis. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:ph16010114. [PMID: 36678611 PMCID: PMC9862207 DOI: 10.3390/ph16010114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Revised: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Oxy210, a semi-synthetic oxysterol derivative, displays cell-selective inhibition of Hedgehog (Hh) and transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) signaling in epithelial cells, fibroblasts, and macrophages as well as antifibrotic and anti-inflammatory efficacy in models of liver fibrosis. In the present report, we examine the effects of Oxy210 in cellular models of lung and kidney fibrosis, such as human lung fibroblast cell lines IMR-90, derived from healthy lung tissue, and LL97A, derived from an idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) patient. In addition, we examine the effects of Oxy210 in primary human renal fibroblasts, pericytes, mesangial cells, and renal tubular epithelial cells, known for their involvement in chronic kidney disease (CKD) and kidney fibrosis. We demonstrate in fibroblasts that the expression of several profibrotic TGF-β target genes, including fibronectin (FN), collagen 1A1 (COL1A1), and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) are inhibited by Oxy210, both at the basal level and following TGF-β stimulation in a statistically significant manner. The inhibition of COL1A1 gene expression translated directly to significantly reduced COL1A1 protein expression. In human primary small airway epithelial cells (HSAECs) and renal tubular epithelial cells, Oxy210 significantly inhibited TGF-β target gene expression associated with epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Oxy210 also inhibited the proliferation of fibroblasts, pericytes, and mesangial cells in a dose-dependent and statistically significant manner.
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17
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Liu X, Brenner DA, Kisseleva T. Human Hepatic Stellate Cells: Isolation and Characterization. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2669:221-232. [PMID: 37247063 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3207-9_13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis of different etiologies is characterized by activation of hepatic stellate cells (aHSCs) into collagen type I secreting myofibroblasts, which produce fibrous scar and make the liver fibrotic. aHSCs are the major source of myofibroblasts and, therefore, the primary targets of anti-fibrotic therapy. Despite extensive studies, targeting of aHSCs in patients provides challenges. The progress in anti-fibrotic drug development relies on translational studies but is limited by the availability of primary human HSCs. Here we describe a perfusion/gradient centrifugation-based method of the large-scale isolation of highly purified and viable human HSCs (hHSCs) from normal and diseased human livers and the strategies of hHSC cryopreservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Liu
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, San Diego, CA, USA
- Department of Surgery, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - David A Brenner
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Tatiana Kisseleva
- Department of Surgery, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, San Diego, CA, USA.
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18
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de la Torre RAMG, Sancho-Bru P. Differentiation of Hepatic Stellate Cells from Pluripotent Stem Cells. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2669:33-42. [PMID: 37247052 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3207-9_2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are non-parenchymal cells with a mesenchymal origin involved in vitamin A storage and extracellular matrix (ECM) homeostasis. In response to injury, HSCs activate and acquire myofibroblastic features, participating in the wound healing response. Upon chronic liver injury, HSCs become the main contributors to ECM deposition and to the progression of fibrosis. Due to their relevant roles in liver function and pathophysiology, it is of utmost importance to develop means to obtain HSCs for liver disease modeling and drug development. Here, we describe a directed differentiation protocol from human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) to obtain functional HSCs (PSC-HSCs). The procedure is based on the subsequent addition of growth factors during 12 days of differentiation. PSC-HSCs can be used for liver modeling and drug screening assays, hence emerging as a promising and reliable source of HSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Pau Sancho-Bru
- Liver Cell Plasticity and Tissue Repair Lab at Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain.
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Barcelona, Spain.
- University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
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Serna-Salas SA, Soto-Gámez AA, Wu Z, Klaver M, Moshage H. Studying Hepatic Stellate Cell Senescence. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2669:79-109. [PMID: 37247056 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3207-9_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are the key effector cells in liver fibrosis. They are the main producers of excessive amounts of extracellular matrix components during fibrogenesis and therefore a potential target for the treatment of liver fibrosis. Induction of senescence in HSCs may be a promising strategy to slow down, stop, or even reverse fibrogenesis. Senescence is a complex and heterogeneous process linked to fibrosis and cancer, but the exact mechanism and relevant markers can be cell-type dependent. Therefore, many markers of senescence have been proposed, and many methods to detect senescence have been developed. In this chapter, we review relevant methods and biomarkers to detect cellular senescence in hepatic stellate cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra A Serna-Salas
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Abel A Soto-Gámez
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Department of Biomedical Sciences of Cells and Systems, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Zongmei Wu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Myrthe Klaver
- European Research Institute for the Biology of Aging (ERIBA), University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Han Moshage
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.
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20
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Ezhilarasan D, Najimi M. Intercellular communication among liver cells in the perisinusoidal space of the injured liver: Pathophysiology and therapeutic directions. J Cell Physiol 2023; 238:70-81. [PMID: 36409708 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Revised: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) in the perisinusoidal space are surrounded by hepatocytes, liver sinusoidal endothelial cells, Kupffer cells, and other resident immune cells. In the normal liver, HSCs communicate with these cells to maintain normal liver functions. However, after chronic liver injury, injured hepatocytes release several proinflammatory mediators, reactive oxygen species, and damage-associated molecular patterns into the perisinusoidal space. Consequently, such alteration activates quiescent HSCs to acquire a myofibroblast-like phenotype and express high amounts of transforming growth factor-β1, angiopoietins, vascular endothelial growth factors, interleukins 6 and 8, fibril forming collagens, laminin, and E-cadherin. These phenotypic and functional transdifferentiation lead to hepatic fibrosis with a typical abnormal extracellular matrix synthesis and disorganization of the perisinusoidal space of the injured liver. Those changes provide a favorable environment that regulates tumor cell proliferation, migration, adhesion, and survival in the perisinusoidal space. Such tumor cells by releasing transforming growth factor-β1 and other cytokines, will, in turn, activate and deeply interact with HSCs via a bidirectional loop. Furthermore, hepatocellular carcinoma-derived mediators convert HSCs and macrophages into protumorigenic cell populations. Thus, the perisinusoidal space serves as a critical hub for activating HSCs and their interactions with other cell types, which cause a variety of liver diseases such as hepatic inflammation, fibrosis, cirrhosis, and their complications, such as portal hypertension and hepatocellular carcinoma. Therefore, targeting the crosstalk between activated HSCs and tumor cells/immune cells in the tumor microenvironment may also support a promising therapeutic strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devaraj Ezhilarasan
- Department of Pharmacology, Molecular Medicine and Toxicology Lab, Saveetha Dental College, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (SIMATS), Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Mustapha Najimi
- Laboratory of Pediatric Hepatology and Cell Therapy, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Research (IREC), UCLouvain, Brussels, Belgium
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21
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Gu C, Xue H, Yang X, Nie Y, Qian X. Role of follistatin-like protein 1 in liver diseases. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2022; 248:193-200. [PMID: 36533576 PMCID: PMC10107393 DOI: 10.1177/15353702221142604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver diseases, including viral hepatitis, fatty liver, metabolic-associated fatty liver disease, liver cirrhosis, alcoholic liver disease, and liver neoplasms, are major global health challenges. Despite the continued development of new drugs and technologies, the prognosis of end-stage liver diseases, including advanced liver cirrhosis and liver neoplasms, remains poor. Follistatin-like protein 1 (FSTL1), an extracellular glycoprotein, is secreted by various cell types. It is a glycoprotein that belongs to the family of secreted proteins acidic and rich in cysteine (SPARC). It is also known as transforming growth factor-beta inducible TSC-36 and follistatin-related protein (FRP). FSTL1 plays a key role in cell survival, proliferation, differentiation, and migration, as well as the regulation of inflammation and immunity. Studies have demonstrated that FSTL1 significantly affects the occurrence and development of liver diseases. This article reviews the role and mechanism of FSLT1 in liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuansha Gu
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Immunotherapy, School of Laboratory Medicine, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang 453003, China
| | - Hua Xue
- The Third Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang 453000, China
| | - Xiaoli Yang
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Immunotherapy, School of Laboratory Medicine, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang 453003, China
| | - Yu Nie
- School of Basic Medicine, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang 453003, China
| | - Xinlai Qian
- The Third Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang 453000, China
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22
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Niu ZS, Wang WH, Niu XJ. Recent progress in molecular mechanisms of postoperative recurrence and metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma. World J Gastroenterol 2022; 28:6433-6477. [PMID: 36569275 PMCID: PMC9782839 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v28.i46.6433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2022] [Revised: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatectomy is currently considered the most effective option for treating patients with early and intermediate hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Unfortunately, the postoperative prognosis of patients with HCC remains unsatisfactory, predominantly because of high postoperative metastasis and recurrence rates. Therefore, research on the molecular mechanisms of postoperative HCC metastasis and recurrence will help develop effective intervention measures to prevent or delay HCC metastasis and recurrence and to improve the long-term survival of HCC patients. Herein, we review the latest research progress on the molecular mechanisms underlying postoperative HCC metastasis and recurrence to lay a foundation for improving the understanding of HCC metastasis and recurrence and for developing more precise prevention and intervention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhao-Shan Niu
- Laboratory of Micromorphology, School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, Shandong Province, China
| | - Wen-Hong Wang
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, Shandong Province, China
| | - Xiao-Jun Niu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Qingdao Shibei District People's Hospital, Qingdao 266033, Shandong Province, China
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23
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Kohara S, Ogawa K. Eph/Ephrin Promotes the Adhesion of Liver Tissue-Resident Macrophages to a Mimicked Surface of Liver Sinusoidal Endothelial Cells. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10123234. [PMID: 36551990 PMCID: PMC9775184 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10123234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Kupffer cells are maintained via self-renewal in specific microenvironmental niches, primarily the liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs). In this study, we propagated tissue-resident macrophages (Mø) from mouse liver using mixed culture with hepatic fibroblastic cells. Propagated liver Mø express Id3, Lxra and Spic transcription factors, which are required for Kupffer cell characterization. Thus, Kupffer cell properties are likely to be maintained in liver Mø propagated using mixed culture with fibroblastic cells. We revealed (i) gene expression of certain Eph receptors and ephrin ligands including EphA2, ephrin-A1, EphB4, and ephrin-B1 in propagated liver Mø and primary LSECs, (ii) immunohistochemical localization of these Eph/ephrin member molecules indicating common expression in Kupffer cells and LSECs, and (iii) surface expression of several integrin α and β subunits, including α4β1, αLβ2, αMβ2, and αXβ2 integrin in propagated liver Mø and that of the corresponding ligands ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 in primary LSECs. Moreover, EphA/ephrin-A and EphB/ephrin-B interactions promoted liver Mø adhesion to the ICAM-1-adsorbed surface, which mimicked that of LSECs and may be implicated in the residence of Kupffer cells in the liver sinusoid. Further studies on regulating the residence and regeneration of Kupffer cells in related hepatic disorders are required to validate our findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sho Kohara
- Laboratory of Veterinary Anatomy, College of Life, Environment and Advanced Sciences, Osaka Prefecture University, 1-58 Rinku-Ourai-Kita, Izumisano, Osaka 598-8531, Japan
| | - Kazushige Ogawa
- Laboratory of Veterinary Anatomy, Graduate School of Veterinary Science, Osaka Metropolitan University, 1-58 Rinku-Ourai-Kita, Izumisano, Osaka 598-8531, Japan
- Correspondence:
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24
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Monleón E, Lucía Ó, Güemes A, López-Alonso B, Arribas D, Sarnago H, Hernaez A, Burdío JM, Junquera C. Liver tissue remodeling following ablation with irreversible electroporation in a porcine model. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:1014648. [DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.1014648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Irreversible electroporation (IRE) is a method of non-thermal focal tissue ablation characterized by irreversibly permeabilizing the cell membranes while preserving the extracellular matrix. This study aimed to investigate tissue remodeling after IRE in a porcine model, especially focusing on the extracellular matrix and hepatic stellate cells. IRE ablation was performed on 11 female pigs at 2,000 V/cm electric field strength using a versatile high-voltage generator and 3 cm diameter parallel-plate electrodes. The treated lobes were removed during surgery at 1, 3, 7, 14, and 21 days after IRE. Tissue remodeling and regeneration were assessed by histopathology and immunohistochemistry. Throughout the treated area, IRE led to extensive necrosis with intact collagenous structures evident until day 1. From then on, the necrosis progressively diminished while reparative tissue gradually increased. During this process, the reticulin framework and the septal fibrillar collagen remained in the necrotic foci until they were invaded by the reparative tissue. The reparative tissue was characterized by a massive proliferation of myofibroblast-like cells accompanied by a complete disorganization of the extracellular matrix with the disappearance of hepatic architecture. Hepatic stellate cell markers were associated with the proliferation of myofibroblast-like cells and the reorganization of the extracellular matrix. Between 2 and 3 weeks after IRE, the lobular architecture was almost completely regenerated. The events described in the present study show that IRE may be a valid model to study the mechanisms underlying liver regeneration after extensive acute injury.
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25
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Lai X, Li C, Xiang C, Pan Z, Zhang K, Wang L, Xie B, Cao J, Shi J, Deng J, Lu S, Deng H, Zhuang H, Li T, Shi Y, Xiang K. Generation of functionally competent hepatic stellate cells from human stem cells to model liver fibrosis in vitro. Stem Cell Reports 2022; 17:2531-2547. [PMID: 36270282 PMCID: PMC9669405 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2022.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
The detailed understanding of fibrogenesis has been hampered by a lack of important functional quiescence characteristics and an in vitro model to recapitulate hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation. In our study, we establish robust endoderm- and mesoderm-sourced quiescent-like induced HSCs (iHSCs) derived from human pluripotent stem cells. Notably, iHSCs present features of mature HSCs, including accumulation of vitamin A in the lipid droplets and maintained quiescent features. In addition, iHSCs display a fibrogenic response and secrete collagen I in response to hepatoxicity caused by thioacetamide, acetaminophen, and hepatitis B and C virus infection. Antiviral therapy attenuated virally induced iHSC activation. Interestingly, endoderm- and mesoderm-derived iHSCs showed similar iHSC phenotypes. Therefore, we provide a novel and robust method to efficiently generate functional iHSCs from hESC and iPSC differentiation, which could be used as a model for hepatocyte toxicity prediction, anti-liver-fibrosis drug screening, and viral hepatitis-induced liver fibrosis. Generation of endoderm- and mesoderm-derived quiescent hepatic stellate cells (qHSCs) Induced qHSC-like cells can be activated into myofibroblasts in vitro Induced qHSC-like cells can respond to hepatoxicity from thioacetamide treatment Hepatitis B and C virus infection can convert qHSC-like cells into activated HSCs
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Hoogerland JA, Staels B, Dombrowicz D. Immune-metabolic interactions in homeostasis and the progression to NASH. Trends Endocrinol Metab 2022; 33:690-709. [PMID: 35961913 DOI: 10.1016/j.tem.2022.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 07/09/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The incidence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has increased significantly over the past two decades. NAFLD ranges from simple steatosis (NAFL) to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and predisposes to fibrosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The importance of the immune system in hepatic physiology and in the progression of NAFLD is increasingly recognized. At homeostasis, the liver participates in immune defense against pathogens and in tolerance of gut-derived microbial compounds. Hepatic immune cells also respond to metabolic stimuli and have a role in NAFLD progression to NASH. In this review, we discuss how metabolic perturbations affect immune cell phenotype and function in NAFL and NASH, and then focus on the role of immune cells in liver homeostasis and in the development of NASH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanne A Hoogerland
- Univeristy of Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1011-EGID, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Bart Staels
- Univeristy of Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1011-EGID, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - David Dombrowicz
- Univeristy of Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1011-EGID, F-59000 Lille, France.
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Huc-MSC-derived exosomes modified with the targeting peptide of aHSCs for liver fibrosis therapy. J Nanobiotechnology 2022; 20:432. [PMID: 36183106 PMCID: PMC9526331 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-022-01636-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Effective therapeutics to stop or reverse liver fibrosis have not emerged, because these potential agents cannot specifically target activated hepatic stellate cells (aHSCs) or are frequently toxic to parenchymal cells. Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell (Huc-MSC)-derived exosomes show promise in nanomedicine for the treatment of liver fibrosis. However, systemic injection showed that unmodified exosomes were mainly taken up by the mononuclear phagocyte system. The discovery of ligands that selectively bind to a specific target plays a crucial role in clinically relevant diagnostics and therapeutics. Herein, we aimed to identify the targeting peptide of aHSCs by screening a phage-displayed peptide library, and modify Huc-MSC-derived exosomes with the targeting peptide. Results In this study, we screened a phage-displayed peptide library by biopanning for peptides preferentially bound to HSC-T6 cells. The identified peptide, HSTP1, also exhibited better targeting ability to aHSCs in pathological sections of fibrotic liver tissues. Then, HSTP1 was fused with exosomal enriched membrane protein (Lamp2b) and was displayed on the surface of exosomes through genetic engineering technology. The engineered exosomes (HSTP1-Exos) could be more efficiently internalized by HSC-T6 cells and outperformed both unmodified exosomes (Blank-Exos) and Lamp2b protein overexpressed exosomes (Lamp2b + Exos) in enhancing the ability of exosomes to promote HSC-T6 reversion to a quiescent phenotype. In vivo results showed HSTP1-Exos could specifically target to the aHSC region after intravenous administration, as demonstrated by coimmunofluorescence with the typical aHSCs marker α-SMA, and enhance the therapeutic effect on liver fibrosis. Conclusion These results suggest that HSTP1 is a reliable targeting peptide that can specifically bind to aHSCs and that HSTP1-modified exosomes realize the precise treatment for aHSCs in complex liver tissue. We provide a novel strategy for clinical liver fibrosis therapy. Graphical Abstract ![]()
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28
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Liu M, Xiang Y, Yang Y, Long X, Xiao Z, Nan Y, Jiang Y, Qiu Y, Huang Q, Ai K. State-of-the-art advancements in Liver-on-a-chip (LOC): Integrated biosensors for LOC. Biosens Bioelectron 2022; 218:114758. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2022.114758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Revised: 09/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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29
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Wei F, Yang X, Zhang M, Xu C, Hu Y, Liu D. Akkermansia muciniphila Enhances Egg Quality and the Lipid Profile of Egg Yolk by Improving Lipid Metabolism. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:927245. [PMID: 35928144 PMCID: PMC9344071 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.927245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Akkermansia muciniphila (A. muciniphila) has shown potential as a probiotic for the prevention and treatment of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in both humans and mice. However, relatively little is known about the effects of A. muciniphila on lipid metabolism, productivity, and product quality in laying hens. In this study, we explored whether A. muciniphila supplementation could improve lipid metabolism and egg quality in laying hens and sought to identify the underlying mechanism. In the first experiment, 80 Hy-Line Brown laying hens were divided into four groups, one of which was fed a normal diet (control group), while the other three groups were administered a high-energy, low-protein diet to induce fatty liver hemorrhagic syndrome (FLHS). Among the three FLHS groups, one was treated with phosphate-buffered saline, one with live A. muciniphila, and one with pasteurized A. muciniphila. In the second experiment, 140 Hy-Line Brown laying hens were divided into two groups and respectively fed a basal diet supplemented or not with A. muciniphila lyophilized powder. The results showed that, in laying hens with FLHS, treatment with either live or pasteurized A. muciniphila efficiently decreased body weight, abdominal fat deposition, and lipid content in both serum and the liver; downregulated the mRNA expression of lipid synthesis-related genes and upregulated that of lipid transport-related genes in the liver; promoted the growth of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs)-producing microorganisms and increased the cecal SCFAs content; and improved the yolk lipid profile. Additionally, the supplementation of lyophilized powder of A. muciniphila to aged laying hens reduced abdominal fat deposition and total cholesterol (TC) levels in both serum and the liver, suppressed the mRNA expression of cholesterol synthesis-related genes in the liver, reduced TC content in the yolk, increased eggshell thickness, and reshaped the composition of the gut microbiota. Collectively, our findings demonstrated that A. muciniphila can modulate lipid metabolism, thereby, promoting laying hen health as well as egg quality and nutritive value. Live, pasteurized, and lyophilized A. muciniphila preparations all have the potential for use as additives for improving laying hen production.
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30
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Lao Y, Li Y, Wang W, Ren L, Qian X, He F, Chen X, Jiang Y. A Cytological Atlas of the Human Liver Proteome from PROTEOME SKY-LIVER Hu 2.0, a Publicly Available Database. J Proteome Res 2022; 21:1916-1929. [PMID: 35820117 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jproteome.2c00190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The liver plays a unique role as a metabolic center of the body, and also performs other important functions such as detoxification and immune response. Here, we establish a cell type-resolved healthy human liver proteome including hepatocytes (HCs), hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), Kupffer cells (KCs), and liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) by high-resolution mass spectrometry. Overall, we quantify total 8354 proteins for four cell types and over 6000 proteins for each cell type. Analysis of this data set and regulatory pathway reveals the cellular labor division in the human liver follows the pattern that parenchymal cells make the main components of pathways, but nonparenchymal cells trigger these pathways. Human liver cells show some novel molecular features: HCs maintain KCs and LSECs homeostasis by producing cholesterol and ketone bodies; HSCs participate in xenobiotics metabolism as an agent deliverer; KCs and LSECs mediate immune response through MHC class II-TLRs and MHC class I-TGFβ cascade, respectively; and KCs play a central role in diurnal rhythms regulation through sensing diurnal IGF and temperature flux. Together, this work expands our understandings of liver physiology and provides a useful resource for future analyses of normal and diseased livers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanxiang Lao
- State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, Beijing Proteome Research Center, National Center of Protein Sciences (Beijing), Beijing Institute of Lifeomics, Beijing 102206, China.,Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Yanyan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, Beijing Proteome Research Center, National Center of Protein Sciences (Beijing), Beijing Institute of Lifeomics, Beijing 102206, China.,Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine of Ministry of Education, Institute of Hematology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Wei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, Beijing Proteome Research Center, National Center of Protein Sciences (Beijing), Beijing Institute of Lifeomics, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Liangliang Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, Beijing Proteome Research Center, National Center of Protein Sciences (Beijing), Beijing Institute of Lifeomics, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Xiaohong Qian
- State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, Beijing Proteome Research Center, National Center of Protein Sciences (Beijing), Beijing Institute of Lifeomics, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Fuchu He
- State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, Beijing Proteome Research Center, National Center of Protein Sciences (Beijing), Beijing Institute of Lifeomics, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Xinguo Chen
- Institute of Liver Transplantation, The Third Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100039, China
| | - Ying Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, Beijing Proteome Research Center, National Center of Protein Sciences (Beijing), Beijing Institute of Lifeomics, Beijing 102206, China.,Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230031, China
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31
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Li Y, Wei M, Yuan Q, Liu Y, Tian T, Hou L, Zhang J. MyD88 in hepatic stellate cells promotes the development of alcoholic fatty liver via the AKT pathway. J Mol Med (Berl) 2022; 100:1071-1085. [PMID: 35708745 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-022-02196-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Revised: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Myeloid differentiation primary response gene 88 (MyD88), an adaptor protein in the Toll-like receptors (TLRs) signalling pathway, is expressed in various liver cells including hepatocytes, Kupffer cells and hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). And yet, the functional role of MyD88 in HSCs is poorly elucidated in alcoholic fatty liver (AFL). Here, to study the functional role of MyD88 in HSCs and the molecular mechanism related to the development of AFL, chronic-binge ethanol mouse models were established in mice with specific MyD88 knockout in quiescent (MyD88GFAP-KO) and activated HSCs (MyD88SMA-KO), respectively. Our results clearly showed an elevated expression of MyD88 in liver tissues of ethanol treated mouse model which harbours the wild type. Intriguingly, ethanol treatment profoundly inhibited inflammation in both MyD88GFAP-KO and MyD88SMA-KO mice, but the suppression of lipogenesis was only observed in MyD88GFAP-KO mice. Molecularly, our study indicated that MyD88 induced osteopontin (OPN) secretion in HSCs, which consequently resulted in activation of AKT signalling pathway and accumulation of fat in hepatocytes. Additionally, our data also suggested that OPN promoted inflammation by activating p-STAT1. Thus, targeting MyD88 may be a potentially represent a promising strategy for the prevention and treatment of AFL. KEY MESSAGES: The expression of MyD88 in HSCs was significantly increased in ethanol-induced liver tissues of wild-type mice. MyD88 deficiency in quiescent HSCs inhibited inflammation and lipogenesis under the ethanol feeding condition. MyD88 deficiency in activated HSCs only inhibited inflammation under the ethanol feeding condition. MyD88 promoted the OPN secretion of HSCs, which further activated the AKT signalling pathway of hepatocytes and upregulated lipogenic gene expression to promote fat accumulation. OPN also promotes inflammation by activating p-STAT1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yukun Li
- The College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Beijing Jiaotong University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Miaomiao Wei
- The College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Beijing Jiaotong University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Qi Yuan
- The College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Beijing Jiaotong University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu Liu
- The College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Beijing Jiaotong University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Tian Tian
- The College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Beijing Jiaotong University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Lingling Hou
- The College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Beijing Jiaotong University, Beijing, People's Republic of China.
| | - Jinhua Zhang
- The College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Beijing Jiaotong University, Beijing, People's Republic of China.
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Devaraj E, Perumal E, Subramaniyan R, Mustapha N. Liver fibrosis: Extracellular vesicles mediated intercellular communication in perisinusoidal space. Hepatology 2022; 76:275-285. [PMID: 34773651 DOI: 10.1002/hep.32239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Revised: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ezhilarasan Devaraj
- Department of Pharmacology, The Blue Lab, Molecular Pharmacology and Toxicology Division, Saveetha Dental College, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, India
| | - Elumalai Perumal
- Department of Pharmacology, The Blue Lab, Molecular Pharmacology and Toxicology Division, Saveetha Dental College, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, India
| | - Raghunandhakumar Subramaniyan
- Department of Pharmacology, The Blue Lab, Molecular Pharmacology and Toxicology Division, Saveetha Dental College, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, India
| | - Najimi Mustapha
- Laboratory of Pediatric Hepatology and Cell Therapy, IREC Institute, Université Catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), Brussels, Belgium
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Optimized Isolation and Characterization of C57BL/6 Mouse Hepatic Stellate Cells. Cells 2022; 11:cells11091379. [PMID: 35563686 PMCID: PMC9102395 DOI: 10.3390/cells11091379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
To obtain meaningful results of hepatic stellate cell (HSC) function, it is crucial to use highly pure HSC populations. Our aim was to optimize HSC isolation from mice livers without exploiting the characteristically transient vitamin A autofluorescence of HSC. HSCs were isolated from C57BL/6 mice using a two-step collagenase digestion and Nycodenz gradient separation followed by CD11b-negative sorting step in order to remove contaminating macrophages and dendritic cells. Isolated cells were analyzed for yield, viability, purity, and potential new markers using immunofluorescence and flow cytometry. We obtained a yield of 350,595 ± 100,773 HSC per mouse liver and a viability of isolated cells of 92.4 ± 3.1%. We observed a low macrophage/dendritic cell contamination of 1.22 ± 0.54%. Using flow cytometry, we demonstrated that CD38 was expressed at the surface of HSC subpopulations and that all expressed intracellular markers specific for HSC in the liver. This isolation method, avoiding fluorescent activated cell sorting (FACS), allowed isolation of HSCs with high purity. Further, flow cytometry analysis suggests that CD38 may be a reliable marker of HSCs and may include subpopulations of HSCs without retinoid droplets.
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Lele S, Lee SD, Sarkar D, Levy MF. Purification and Isolation of Hepatic Stellate Cells. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2455:93-101. [PMID: 35212989 PMCID: PMC8930280 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2128-8_9] [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] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Quiescent human hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) serve as important reservoirs of fat-soluble vitamins in the body, namely vitamin A. In an activated form, HSCs are the drivers of fibrosis following chronic liver injury. In non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) specifically, activated HSCs are drivers of induction and progression of fibrogenesis. Isolation and purification of HSCs from donor liver samples provides an avenue to study HSCs and their fibrotic capabilities. Manual and chemical digestion of donor liver via dissection and Pronase, collagenase, and DNAse treatment creates a suspension of non-parenchymal liver cells. Quiescent HSCs can be further isolated from this suspension by density-gradient centrifugation in a 6%, 8%, 12%, and 15% arabinogalactan medium. After collection of HSCs from the low-density layers of the gradient, they can be grown on uncoated plastic. Rodent HSCs can also be isolated via density-gradient centrifugation. To isolate activated HSCs, liver tissue explants or established immortalized HSC lines can be utilized. Here, we described protocols for isolation of human and rodent HSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Lele
- School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Seung Duk Lee
- Division of Transplant Surgery, Department of Surgery, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Devanand Sarkar
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
- Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
- VCU Institute of Molecular Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Marlon F Levy
- Division of Transplant Surgery, Department of Surgery, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA.
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Larsen AK, Simón-Santamaría J, Elvevold K, Ericzon BG, Mortensen KE, McCourt P, Smedsrød B, Sørensen KK. Autofluorescence in freshly isolated adult human liver sinusoidal cells. Eur J Histochem 2021; 65. [PMID: 34897295 PMCID: PMC8696389 DOI: 10.4081/ejh.2021.3337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Autofluorescent granules of various sizes were observed in primary human liver endothelial cells (LSECs) upon laser irradiation using a wide range of wavelengths. Autofluorescence was detected in LAMP-1 positive vesicles, suggesting lysosomal location. Confocal imaging of freshly prepared cultures and imaging flow cytometry of non-cultured cells revealed fluorescence in all channels used. Treatment with a lipofuscin autofluorescence quencher reduced autofluorescence, most efficiently in the near UV-area. These results, combined with the knowledge of the very active blood clearance function of LSECs support the notion that lysosomally located autofluorescent material reflected accumulation of lipofuscin in the intact liver. These results illustrate the importance of careful selection of fluorophores, especially when labelling of live cells where the quencher is not compatible.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Kjetil Elvevold
- Department of Medical Biology, UiT - The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø.
| | - Bo Göran Ericzon
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology (CLINTEC), Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm.
| | | | - Peter McCourt
- Department of Medical Biology, UiT - The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø.
| | - Bård Smedsrød
- Department of Medical Biology, UiT - The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø.
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Rady B, Nishio T, Dhar D, Liu X, Erion M, Kisseleva T, Brenner DA, Pocai A. PNPLA3 downregulation exacerbates the fibrotic response in human hepatic stellate cells. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0260721. [PMID: 34879108 PMCID: PMC8654208 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0260721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) results, in part, from the interaction of metabolic derangements with predisposing genetic variants, leading to liver-related complications and mortality. The strongest genetic determinant is a highly prevalent missense variant in patatin-like phospholipase domain-containing protein 3 (PNPLA3 p.I148M). In human liver hepatocytes PNPLA3 localizes to the surface of lipid droplets where the mutant form is believed to enhance lipid accumulation and release of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Less is known about the role of PNPLA3 in hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). Here we characterized HSC obtained from patients carrying the wild type (n = 8 C/C) and the heterozygous (n = 6, C/G) or homozygous (n = 6, G/G) PNPLA3 I148M and investigated the effect of genotype and PNPLA3 downregulation on baseline and TGF-β-stimulated fibrotic gene expression. HSCs from all genotypes showed comparable baseline levels of PNPLA3 and expression of the fibrotic genes α-SMA, COL1A1, TIMP1 and SMAD7. Treatment with TGF-β increased PNPLA3 expression in all 3 genotypes (~2-fold) and resulted in similar stimulation of the expression of several fibrogenic genes. In primary human HSCs carrying wild-type (WT) PNPLA3, siRNA treatment reduced PNPLA3 mRNA by 79% resulting in increased expression of α-SMA, Col1a1, TIMP1, and SMAD7 in cells stimulated with TGF-β. Similarly, knock-down of PNPLA3 in HSCs carrying either C/G or G/G genotypes resulted in potentiation of TGF-β induced expression of fibrotic genes. Knockdown of PNPLA3 did not impact fibrotic gene expression in the absence of TGF-β treatment. Together, these data indicate that the presence of the I148M PNPLA3 mutation in HSC has no effect on baseline activation and that downregulation of PNPLA3 exacerbates the fibrotic response irrespective of the genotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian Rady
- Cardiovascular & Metabolism, Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Spring House, PA, United States of America
| | - Takahiro Nishio
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States of America
| | - Debanjan Dhar
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States of America
| | - Xiao Liu
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States of America
| | - Mark Erion
- Cardiovascular & Metabolism, Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Spring House, PA, United States of America
| | - Tatiana Kisseleva
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States of America
| | - David A. Brenner
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States of America
| | - Alessandro Pocai
- Cardiovascular & Metabolism, Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Spring House, PA, United States of America
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37
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Zhang L, Gao J, Zhou D, Wang X, Li J, Wang J, Chen H, Xie X, Chen T. Profiles of messenger RNAs and MicroRNAs in hypoxia-induced hepatic stellate cells. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2021; 9:1451. [PMID: 34734003 PMCID: PMC8506783 DOI: 10.21037/atm-21-4215] [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: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Background MicroRNA (miRNA) plays an important role in hepatic stellate cell (HSCs) activation and liver fibrosis. The purpose of this study is to explore the effect of hypoxia on the differential expression of mRNAs and miRNAs in rat HSCs. Methods HSC-T6 cells were treated with cobalt chloride (CoCl2), and the activity of HSC-T6 cells was measured by the CCK-8 assay. The mRNA expression levels of hypoxia inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α), collagen type I, transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), and Smad7 were measured by RT-qPCR. The protein expression levels of HIF-1α, Bax, Bcl-2, and caspase-3 were assayed by western blot. We used basal medium and 400 µmol/L CoCl2 medium to treat HSC-T6 cells for 48 h. Cells were harvested after 48 h to extract RNA. Transcriptome sequencing was performed to investigate differentially expressed miRNAs and mRNAs (fold change >2; P<0.05). Bioinformatics analysis was performed to predict the functions of differentially expressed miRNAs and mRNAs. Further, we used RT-qPCR to detect the expression of mRNAs and miRNAs to confirm the accuracy of sequencing. Results With the increase of CoCl2 concentration, the activity of HSC-T6 cells decreased (P<0.05). The mRNA expression levels of HIF-1α, collagen I, TGF-β1, and Smad7, and the protein expressions levels of HIF-1α, Bax, caspase-3, and the Bcl-2/Bax ratio were increased compared with the control group (P<0.05), while the expression of Bcl-2 decreased. A total of 54 miRNAs (20 upregulated and 34 downregulated) and 1,423 mRNAs (685 upregulated and 738 downregulated) were differentially expressed in the 400 µmol/L CoCl2 medium group compared to the control basal medium group. Further bioinformatics analysis demonstrated that the differentially expressed mRNAs and miRNAs were mainly enriched in the synthesis of extracellular matrix. In addition, we used RT-qPCR to detect the expression of mRNAs and miRNAs to confirm the accuracy of sequencing. Conclusions Our results presented the profiles of mRNAs and miRNAs in hypoxia-induced HSC-T6 cells in rats, the signaling pathways, and co-expression networks. These findings may suggest novel insights for the early diagnosis and treatment of HSC activation and liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liting Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Cryospheric Science, Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Jing Gao
- Respiratory Medicine Unit, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Dan Zhou
- Department of Liver Diseases, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xiaojun Wang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Gansu Provincial Hospital, Lanzhou, China.,The First School of Clinical Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Junfeng Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Juan Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Xi'an International Medical Center, Xi'an, China
| | - Hong Chen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China.,Department of Gastroenterology, Xi'an International Medical Center, Xi'an, China
| | - Xiaodong Xie
- Institute of Medical Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Tuo Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Cryospheric Science, Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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38
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Luo N, Li J, Wei Y, Lu J, Dong R. Hepatic Stellate Cell: A Double-Edged Sword in the Liver. Physiol Res 2021; 70:821-829. [PMID: 34717063 DOI: 10.33549/physiolres.934755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are located in the space of Disse, between liver sinusoidal endothelia cells (LSECs) and hepatocytes. They have surprised and excited hepatologists for their biological characteristics. Under physiological quiescent conditions, HSCs are the major vitamin A-storing cells of the liver, playing crucial roles in the liver development, regeneration, and tissue homeostasis. Upon injury-induced activation, HSCs convert to a pro-fibrotic state, producing the excessive extracellular matrix (ECM) and promoting angiogenesis in the liver fibrogenesis. Activated HSCs significantly contribute to liver fibrosis progression and inactivated HSCs are key to liver fibrosis regression. In this review, we summarize the comprehensive understanding of HSCs features, including their roles in normal liver and liver fibrosis in hopes of advancing the development of emerging diagnosis and treatment for hepatic fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nianan Luo
- Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China. ,
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39
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Gutiérrez-Cuevas J, Santos A, Armendariz-Borunda J. Pathophysiological Molecular Mechanisms of Obesity: A Link between MAFLD and NASH with Cardiovascular Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222111629. [PMID: 34769060 PMCID: PMC8583943 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Obesity is now a worldwide epidemic ensuing an increase in comorbidities’ prevalence, such as insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes (T2D), metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), hypertension, cardiovascular disease (CVD), autoimmune diseases, and some cancers, CVD being one of the main causes of death in the world. Several studies provide evidence for an association between MAFLD and atherosclerosis and cardio-metabolic disorders, including CVDs such as coronary heart disease and stroke. Therefore, the combination of MAFLD/NASH is associated with vascular risk and CVD progression, but the underlying mechanisms linking MAFLD/NASH and CVD are still under investigation. Several underlying mechanisms may probably be involved, including hepatic/systemic insulin resistance, atherogenic dyslipidemia, hypertension, as well as pro-atherogenic, pro-coagulant, and pro-inflammatory mediators released from the steatotic/inflamed liver. MAFLD is strongly associated with insulin resistance, which is involved in its pathogenesis and progression to NASH. Insulin resistance is a major cardiovascular risk factor in subjects without diabetes. However, T2D has been considered the most common link between MAFLD/NASH and CVD. This review summarizes the evidence linking obesity with MAFLD, NASH, and CVD, considering the pathophysiological molecular mechanisms involved in these diseases. We also discuss the association of MAFLD and NASH with the development and progression of CVD, including structural and functional cardiac alterations, and pharmacological strategies to treat MAFLD/NASH and cardiovascular prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Gutiérrez-Cuevas
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genomics, Institute for Molecular Biology in Medicine and Gene Therapy, University of Guadalajara, CUCS, Guadalajara 44340, Jalisco, Mexico
- Correspondence: (J.G.-C.); (J.A.-B.); Tel.: +52-331-062-2083 (J.G.-C.); +52-333-677-8741 (J.A.-B.)
| | - Arturo Santos
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Campus Guadalajara, Zapopan 45201, Jalisco, Mexico;
| | - Juan Armendariz-Borunda
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genomics, Institute for Molecular Biology in Medicine and Gene Therapy, University of Guadalajara, CUCS, Guadalajara 44340, Jalisco, Mexico
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Campus Guadalajara, Zapopan 45201, Jalisco, Mexico;
- Correspondence: (J.G.-C.); (J.A.-B.); Tel.: +52-331-062-2083 (J.G.-C.); +52-333-677-8741 (J.A.-B.)
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40
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Kermanizadeh A, Valli J, Sanchez K, Hutter S, Pawlowska A, Whyte G, Moritz W, Stone V. Particulate and drug-induced toxicity assessed in novel quadruple cell human primary hepatic disease models of steatosis and pre-fibrotic NASH. Arch Toxicol 2021; 96:287-303. [PMID: 34668024 PMCID: PMC8748349 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-021-03181-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
In an effort to replace, reduce and refine animal experimentation, there is an unmet need to advance current in vitro models that offer features with physiological relevance and enhanced predictivity of in vivo toxicological output. Hepatic toxicology is key following chemical, drug and nanomaterials (NMs) exposure, as the liver is vital in metabolic detoxification of chemicals as well as being a major site of xenobiotic accumulation (i.e., low solubility particulates). With the ever-increasing production of NMs, there is a necessity to evaluate the probability of consequential adverse effects, not only in health but also in clinically asymptomatic liver, as part of risk stratification strategies. In this study, two unique disease initiation and maintenance protocols were developed and utilised to mimic steatosis and pre-fibrotic NASH in scaffold-free 3D liver microtissues (MT) composed of primary human hepatocytes, hepatic stellate cells, Kupffer cells and sinusoidal endothelial cells. The characterized diseased MT were utilized for the toxicological assessment of a panel of xenobiotics. Highlights from the study included: 1. Clear experimental evidence for the pre-existing liver disease is important in the augmentation of xenobiotic-induced hepatotoxicity and 2. NMs are able to activate stellate cells. The data demonstrated that pre-existing disease is vital in the intensification of xenobiotic-induced liver damage. Therefore, it is imperative that all stages of the wide spectrum of liver disease are incorporated in risk assessment strategies. This is of significant consequence, as a substantial number of the general population suffer from sub-clinical liver injury without any apparent or diagnosed manifestations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Kermanizadeh
- Human Sciences Research Centre, University of Derby, Derby, UK. .,School of Engineering and Physical Sciences, Heriot Watt University, Edinburgh, UK.
| | - Jessica Valli
- School of Engineering and Physical Sciences, Heriot Watt University, Edinburgh, UK
| | | | - Simon Hutter
- InSphero AG, Wagistrasse 27a, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | | | - Graeme Whyte
- School of Engineering and Physical Sciences, Heriot Watt University, Edinburgh, UK
| | | | - Vicki Stone
- School of Engineering and Physical Sciences, Heriot Watt University, Edinburgh, UK
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Garlatti V, Lovisa S, Danese S, Vetrano S. The Multiple Faces of Integrin-ECM Interactions in Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:10439. [PMID: 34638778 PMCID: PMC8508809 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221910439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Revised: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) comprises a series of chronic and relapsing intestinal diseases, with Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis being the most common. The abundant and uncontrolled deposition of extracellular matrix, namely fibrosis, is one of the major hallmarks of IBD and is responsible for the progressive narrowing and closure of the intestine, defined as stenosis. Although fibrosis is usually considered the product of chronic inflammation, the substantial failure of anti-inflammatory therapies to target and reduce fibrosis in IBD suggests that fibrosis might be sustained in an inflammation-independent manner. Pharmacological therapies targeting integrins have recently shown great promise in the treatment of IBD. The efficacy of these therapies mainly relies on their capacity to target the integrin-mediated recruitment and functionality of the immune cells at the damage site. However, by nature, integrins also act as mechanosensitive molecules involved in the intracellular transduction of signals and modifications originating from the extracellular matrix. Therefore, understanding integrin signaling in the context of IBD may offer important insights into mechanisms of matrix remodeling, which are uncoupled from inflammation and could underlie the onset and persistency of intestinal fibrosis. In this review, we present the currently available knowledge on the role of integrins in the etiopathogenesis of IBD, highlighting their role in the context of immune-dependent and independent mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Garlatti
- IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, 20089 Milan, Italy; (V.G.); (S.L.); (S.D.)
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale ‘A. Avogadro’, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Sara Lovisa
- IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, 20089 Milan, Italy; (V.G.); (S.L.); (S.D.)
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, 20072 Milan, Italy
| | - Silvio Danese
- IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, 20089 Milan, Italy; (V.G.); (S.L.); (S.D.)
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, 20072 Milan, Italy
| | - Stefania Vetrano
- IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, 20089 Milan, Italy; (V.G.); (S.L.); (S.D.)
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, 20072 Milan, Italy
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Du K, Oh SH, Dutta RK, Sun T, Yang WH, Chi JTA, Diehl AM. Inhibiting xCT/SLC7A11 induces ferroptosis of myofibroblastic hepatic stellate cells but exacerbates chronic liver injury. Liver Int 2021; 41:2214-2227. [PMID: 33991158 PMCID: PMC8594404 DOI: 10.1111/liv.14945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Revised: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS The outcome of liver injury is dictated by factors that control the accumulation of myofibroblastic (activated) hepatic stellate cells (MF-HSCs) but therapies that specifically block this process have not been discovered. We evaluated the hypothesis that MF-HSCs and liver fibrosis could be safely reduced by inhibiting the cysteine/glutamate antiporter xCT. METHODS xCT activity was disrupted in both HSC lines and primary mouse HSCs to determine its effect on HSC biology. For comparison, xCT expression and function were also determined in primary mouse hepatocytes. Finally, the roles of xCT were assessed in mouse models of liver fibrosis. RESULTS We found that xCT mRNA levels were almost a log-fold higher in primary mouse HSCs than in primary mouse hepatocytes. Further, primary mouse HSCs dramatically induced xCT as they became MF, and inhibiting xCT blocked GSH synthesis, reduced growth and fibrogenic gene expression and triggered HSC ferroptosis. Doses of xCT inhibitors that induced massive ferroptosis in HSCs had no effect on hepatocyte viability in vitro, and xCT inhibitors reduced liver fibrosis without worsening liver injury in mice with acute liver injury. However, TGFβ treatment up-regulated xCT and triggered ferroptosis in cultured primary mouse hepatocytes. During chronic liver injury, xCT inhibitors exacerbated injury, impaired regeneration and failed to improve fibrosis, confirming that HSCs and hepatocytes deploy similar mechanisms to survive chronic oxidative stress. CONCLUSIONS Inhibiting xCT can suppress myofibroblastic activity and induce ferroptosis of MF-HSCs. However, targeting xCT inhibition to MF-HSCs will be necessary to exploit ferroptosis as an anti-fibrotic strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuo Du
- Department of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Seh Hoon Oh
- Department of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | | | - Tianai Sun
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA,Center for Genomic and Computational Biology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Wen-Hsuan Yang
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA,Center for Genomic and Computational Biology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Jen-Tsan Ashley Chi
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA,Center for Genomic and Computational Biology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Anna Mae Diehl
- Department of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA,Corresponding Author:Anna Mae Diehl, M.D., Division of Gastroenterology, Duke University, Snyderman Building – Suite 1073, Durham, NC 27710, 919-684-2366,
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Wu M, Miao H, Fu R, Zhang J, Zheng W. Hepatic Stellate Cell: A Potential Target for Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Curr Mol Pharmacol 2021; 13:261-272. [PMID: 32091349 DOI: 10.2174/1874467213666200224102820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2019] [Revised: 01/11/2020] [Accepted: 01/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Liver cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide, in which hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) accounts for the majority. Despite the progression in treatment, the prognosis remains extremely poor for HCC patients. The mechanisms of hepatocarcinogenesis are complex, of which fibrosis is acknowledged as the pre-cancerous stage of HCC. Approximately, 80-90% of HCC develops in the fibrotic or cirrhotic livers. Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), the main effector cells of liver fibrosis, could secret various biological contents to maintain the liver inflammation. By decades, HSCs are increasingly correlated with HCC in the tumor microenvironment. In this review, we summarized the underlying mechanisms that HSCs participated in the genesis and progression of HCC. HSCs secrete various bioactive contents and regulate tumor-related pathways, subsequently contribute to metastasis, angiogenesis, immunosuppression, chemoresistance and cancer stemness. The study indicates that HSC plays vital roles in HCC progression, suggesting it as a promising therapeutic target for HCC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengna Wu
- Research Center of Clinical Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, 20 Xisi Road, 226001 Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Huajie Miao
- Research Center of Clinical Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, 20 Xisi Road, 226001 Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Rong Fu
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Haian Hospital of Nantong University, 17 Zhongba Road, 226600, Haian, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- Department of Chemotherapy, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, 20 Xisi Road, 226001 Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Wenjie Zheng
- Research Center of Clinical Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, 20 Xisi Road, 226001 Nantong, Jiangsu, China
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Ezhilarasan D. Mitochondria: A critical hub for hepatic stellate cells activation during chronic liver diseases. Hepatobiliary Pancreat Dis Int 2021; 20:315-322. [PMID: 33975780 DOI: 10.1016/j.hbpd.2021.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Upon liver injury, quiescent hepatic stellate cells (qHSCs), reside in the perisinusoidal space, phenotypically transdifferentiate into myofibroblast-like cells (MFBs). The qHSCs in the normal liver are less fibrogenic, migratory, and also have less proliferative potential. However, activated HSCs (aHSCs) are more fibrogenic and have a high migratory and proliferative MFBs phenotype. HSCs activation is a highly energetic process that needs abundant intracellular energy in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) for the synthesis of extracellular matrix (ECM) in the injured liver to substantiate the injury. DATA SOURCES The articles were collected through PubMed and EMBASE using search terms "mitochondria and hepatic stellate cells", "mitochondria and HSCs", "mitochondria and hepatic fibrosis", "mitochondria and liver diseases", and "mitochondria and chronic liver disease", and relevant publications published before September 31, 2020 were included in this review. RESULTS Mitochondria homeostasis is affected during HSCs activation. Mitochondria in aHSCs are highly energetic and are in a high metabolically active state exhibiting increased activity such as glycolysis and respiration. aHSCs have high glycolytic enzymes expression and glycolytic activity induced by Hedgehog (Hh) signaling from injured hepatocytes. Increased glycolysis and aerobic glycolysis (Warburg effect) end-products in aHSCs consequently activate the ECM-related gene expressions. Increased Hh signaling from injured hepatocytes downregulates peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ expression and decreases lipogenesis in aHSCs. Glutaminolysis and tricarboxylic acid cycle liberate ATPs that fuel HSCs to proliferate and produce ECM during their activation. CONCLUSIONS Available studies suggest that mitochondria functions can increase in parallel with HSCs activation. Therefore, mitochondrial modulators should be tested in an elaborate manner to control or prevent the HSCs activation during liver injury to subsequently regress hepatic fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devaraj Ezhilarasan
- Department of Pharmacology, the Blue Lab, Molecular Medicine and Toxicology Division, Saveetha Dental College, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (SIMATS), Chennai 600077, Tamil Nadu, India.
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Liang J, Yuan H, Xu L, Wang F, Bao X, Yan Y, Wang H, Zhang C, Jin R, Ma L, Zhang J, Huri L, Su X, Xiao R, Ma Y. Study on the effect of Mongolian medicine Qiwei Qinggan Powder on hepatic fibrosis through JAK2/STAT3 pathway. Biosci Biotechnol Biochem 2021; 85:775-785. [PMID: 33686395 DOI: 10.1093/bbb/zbab001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
This research aimed to evaluate the antihepatic fibrosis effect and explore the mechanism of Qiwei Qinggan Powder (QGS-7) in vivo and in vitro. Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-treated rats and hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) were used. QGS-7 treatment significantly improved the liver function of rats as indicated by decreased serum enzymatic activities of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate transaminase, and alkaline phosphatase. Meanwhile, the hydroxyproline of liver was significantly decreased. Histopathological results indicated that QGS-7 alleviated liver damage and reduced the formation of fibrosis septa. Moreover, QGS-7 significantly attenuated expressions of Alpha smooth muscle actin, Collagen I, Janus kinase 2 (JAK2), phosphorylation-JAK2, signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), phosphorylation-STAT3 in the rat hepatic fibrosis model. QGS-7 inhibited HSC proliferation and promoted it apoptosis. QGS-7 may affect hepatic fibrosis through JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway so as to play an antihepatic fibrosis role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Liang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medicine, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
| | - Hongwei Yuan
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medicine, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
| | - Liping Xu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medicine, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
| | - Feng Wang
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medicine, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
| | - Xiaomei Bao
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, School of Pharmacy, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
| | - Yuxin Yan
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medicine, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
| | - Haisheng Wang
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Basic Medicine, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
| | - Chunyan Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medicine, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
| | - Rong Jin
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medicine, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
| | - Lijie Ma
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medicine, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
| | - Jianyu Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Basic Medicine, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
| | - Lebagen Huri
- School of Mongolian Medicine and Pharmacy, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
| | - Xiaoli Su
- Functional Science laboratory, Institute of Basic Medicine, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
| | - Rui Xiao
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Pathology Inner, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot City, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China
| | - Yuehong Ma
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medicine, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
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The role of let-7b in the inhibition of hepatic stellate cell activation by rSjP40. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009472. [PMID: 34161325 PMCID: PMC8221521 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are one of the main cell types involved in liver fibrosis induced by many factors, including schistosomes. Previous studies in our lab have shown that recombinant P40 protein from Schistosoma japonicum (rSjP40) can inhibit HSC activation in vitro. Let-7b is a member of the let-7 microRNA family and plays an inhibitory role in a variety of diseases and inflammatory conditions. In this study, we investigated the role of let-7b in the inhibition of HSC activation by rSjP40. METHODS Expression of let-7b was detected by quantitative real-time PCR. A dual luciferase assay was used to confirm direct interaction between let-7b and collagen I. We also used western blot to assess protein levels of TGFβRI and collagen type I α1 (COL1A1). RESULTS We found that rSjP40 up-regulates expression of let-7b in HSCs. Let-7b inhibits collagen I expression by directly targeting the 3'UTR region of the collagen I gene. Furthermore, we discovered that let-7b inhibitor partially restores the loss of collagen I expression caused by rSjP40. CONCLUSION Our research clarifies the role of let-7b in the inhibition of HSC activation by rSjP40 and will provide new insights and ideas for the inhibition of HSC activation and treatment of liver fibrosis.
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Pirfenidone modifies hepatic miRNAs expression in a model of MAFLD/NASH. Sci Rep 2021; 11:11709. [PMID: 34083664 PMCID: PMC8175718 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-91187-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
miRNAs are involved in the development of metabolic associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). We aimed to evaluate modifications by prolonged-release pirfenidone (PR-PFD) on key hepatic miRNAs expression in a MAFLD/NASH model. First, male C57BL/6J mice were randomly assigned into groups and fed with conventional diet (CVD) or high fat and carbohydrate diet (HFD) for 16 weeks. At the end of the eighth week, HFD mice were divided in two and only one half was treated with 300 mg/kg/day of PR-PFD mixed with food. Hepatic expression of miRNAs and target genes that participate in inflammation and lipid metabolism was determined by qRT-PCR and transcriptome by microarrays. Increased hepatic expression of miR-21a-5p, miR-34a-5p, miR-122-5p and miR-103-3p in MAFLD/NASH animals was reduced with PR-PFD. Transcriptome analysis showed that 52 genes involved in lipid and collagen biosynthesis and inflammatory response were downregulated in PR-PFD group. The expression of Il1b, Tnfa, Il6, Tgfb1, Col1a1, and Srebf1 were decreased in PR-PFD treated animals. MAFLD/NASH animals compared to CVD group showed modifications in gene metabolic pathways implicated in lipid metabolic process, inflammatory response and insulin resistance; PR-PFD reversed these modifications.
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Ai Y, Shi W, Zuo X, Sun X, Chen Y, Wang Z, Li R, Song X, Dai W, Mu W, Ding K, Li Z, Li Q, Xiao X, Zhan X, Bai Z. The Combination of Schisandrol B and Wedelolactone Synergistically Reverses Hepatic Fibrosis Via Modulating Multiple Signaling Pathways in Mice. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:655531. [PMID: 34149411 PMCID: PMC8211319 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.655531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis represents an important event in the progression of chronic liver injury to cirrhosis, and is characterized by excessive extracellular matrix proteins aggregation. Early fibrosis can be reversed by inhibiting hepatocyte injury, inflammation, or hepatic stellate cells activation, so the development of antifibrotic drugs is important to reduce the incidence of hepatic cirrhosis or even hepatic carcinoma. Here we demonstrate that Schisandrol B (SolB), one of the major active constituents of traditional hepato-protective Chinese medicine, Schisandra sphenanthera, significantly protects against hepatocyte injury, while Wedelolactone (WeD) suppresses the TGF-β1/Smads signaling pathway in hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and inflammation, the combination of the two reverses hepatic fibrosis in mice and the inhibitory effect of the combination on hepatic fibrosis is superior to that of SolB or WeD treatment alone. Combined pharmacotherapy represents a promising strategy for the prevention and treatment of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongqiang Ai
- Department of Hepatology, The Fifth Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Shi
- Department of Hepatology, The Fifth Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaobin Zuo
- Department of Hepatology, The Fifth Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoming Sun
- Department of Hepatology, The Fifth Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yuanyuan Chen
- Department of Hepatology, The Fifth Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zhilei Wang
- Department of Hepatology, The Fifth Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Ruisheng Li
- Research Center for Clinical and Translational Medicine, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xueai Song
- China Military Institute of Chinese Materia, The Fifth Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Wenzhang Dai
- Department of Hepatology, The Fifth Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Wenqing Mu
- Department of Hepatology, The Fifth Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Kaixin Ding
- Department of Hepatology, The Fifth Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zhiyong Li
- Department of Hepatology, The Fifth Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Qiang Li
- Department of Hepatology, The Fifth Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaohe Xiao
- Department of Hepatology, The Fifth Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China.,China Military Institute of Chinese Materia, The Fifth Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoyan Zhan
- Department of Hepatology, The Fifth Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China.,China Military Institute of Chinese Materia, The Fifth Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zhaofang Bai
- Department of Hepatology, The Fifth Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China.,China Military Institute of Chinese Materia, The Fifth Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
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Tabernilla A, dos Santos Rodrigues B, Pieters A, Caufriez A, Leroy K, Van Campenhout R, Cooreman A, Gomes AR, Arnesdotter E, Gijbels E, Vinken M. In Vitro Liver Toxicity Testing of Chemicals: A Pragmatic Approach. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:5038. [PMID: 34068678 PMCID: PMC8126138 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22095038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Revised: 05/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The liver is among the most frequently targeted organs by noxious chemicals of diverse nature. Liver toxicity testing using laboratory animals not only raises serious ethical questions, but is also rather poorly predictive of human safety towards chemicals. Increasing attention is, therefore, being paid to the development of non-animal and human-based testing schemes, which rely to a great extent on in vitro methodology. The present paper proposes a rationalized tiered in vitro testing strategy to detect liver toxicity triggered by chemicals, in which the first tier is focused on assessing general cytotoxicity, while the second tier is aimed at identifying liver-specific toxicity as such. A state-of-the-art overview is provided of the most commonly used in vitro assays that can be used in both tiers. Advantages and disadvantages of each assay as well as overall practical considerations are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Mathieu Vinken
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (A.T.); (B.d.S.R.); (A.P.); (A.C.); (K.L.); (R.V.C.); (A.C.); (A.R.G.); (E.A.); (E.G.)
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50
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Patel SS, Sandur A, El-Kebir M, Gaba RC, Schook LB, Schachtschneider KM. Transcriptional Profiling of Porcine HCC Xenografts Provides Insights Into Tumor Cell Microenvironment Signaling. Front Genet 2021; 12:657330. [PMID: 33995488 PMCID: PMC8118521 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.657330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the second leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide, representing the most common form of liver cancer. As HCC incidence and mortality continue to increase, there is a growing need for improved translational animal models to bridge the gap between basic HCC research and clinical practice to improve early detection and treatment strategies for this deadly disease. Recently the Oncopig cancer model-a novel transgenic swine model that recapitulates human cancer through Cre recombinase induced expression of KRAS G12D and TP53 R167H driver mutations-has been validated as a large animal translational model for human HCC. Due to the similar size, anatomy, physiology, immunology, genetics, and epigenetics between pigs and humans, the Oncopig has the potential to improve translation of novel diagnostic and therapeutic modalities into clinical practice. Recent studies have demonstrated the importance of tumor cells in shaping its surrounding microenvironment into one that is more proliferative, invasive, and metastatic; however, little is known about the impact of microenvironment signaling on HCC tumor biology and differential gene expression between HCC tumors and its tumor microenvironment (TME). In this study, transcriptional profiling was performed on Oncopig HCC xenograft tumors (n = 3) produced via subcutaneous injection of Oncopig HCC cells into severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) mice. To differentiate between gene expression in the tumor and surrounding tumor microenvironment, RNA-seq reads originating from porcine (HCC tumor) and murine (microenvironment) cells were bioinformatically separated using Xenome. Principle component analysis (PCA) demonstrated clustering by group based on the expression of orthologous genes. Genes contributing to each principal component were extracted and subjected to functional analysis to identify alterations in pathway signaling between HCC cells and the microenvironment. Altered expression of genes associated with hepatic fibrosis deposition, immune response, and neo angiogenesis were observed. The results of this study provide insights into the interplay between HCC and microenvironment signaling in vivo, improving our understanding of the interplay between HCC tumor cells, the surrounding tumor microenvironment, and the impact on HCC development and progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shovik S. Patel
- Department of Radiology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Amitha Sandur
- Department of Computer Science, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Mohammed El-Kebir
- Department of Computer Science, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Ron C. Gaba
- Department of Radiology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Lawrence B. Schook
- Department of Radiology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
- National Center for Supercomputing Applications, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Kyle M. Schachtschneider
- Department of Radiology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
- National Center for Supercomputing Applications, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
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